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BYLINE CHRISTIAN SEGOVIA, SPORTS EDITOR, NAWAAL NACKERDIEN CO-EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

As the spring semester winds down, we decided to try some food spots suggested by friends and fellow editors. To celebrate Sports Editor Christian Segovia’s graduation, we spent a day in Centreville for our final review. 

Ramyun Zip

Nawaal Nackerdien/Fourth Estate

Our first stop, recommended by Co-Editor-in-Chief Saahiti Kiran Chamala, was   Ramyun Zip, a Korean noodle spot. Walking into the store, we were met with a wall of ramyun categorized by spice tolerance– mild, medium, spicy, extra spicy—as well as Halal and vegan options. 

Classic grocery-store ramyuns, such as Nongshim’s Shin Ramyun and Buldak Fire Noodles, were featured prominently. Unique options like Buldak Habanero Lime and Buldak Tomato Pasta caught our attention.

Nawaal Nackerdien/Fourth Estate

After some deliberation, Christian ultimately went with Paldo Bibimmen II , a cold noodle dish. At first bite, the spice was mild but grew steadily. It never became overwhelming, earning Christian’s  rating of 10/10. 

Nawaal tried the Paldo Jjajameng (black bean noodles), which came with thick sauce packets and dried greens. While the creamy texture and hidden vegetables might not suit everyone, and the “medium” spice wasn’t strong,  Nawaal still rated it  10/10. Her only tip: don’t add too much water. 

Okaeri Japanese Café

Next, we headed to Okaeri Japanese café in Chantilly, recommended by a friend of Christian’s. The café buzzed with activity and had superb customer service. 

Nawaal Nackerdien/Fourth Estate

Intrigued by the matcha hype, Christian ordered the Strawberry Matcha Latte. Initially, the earthy taste was strong, but balanced out nicely with the sweetness of the strawberry.

Christian felt choosing whole milk slightly dulled the flavor,  rating the drink a 7/10, admitting, “I cannot go lower for the rookie mistakes I made,” 

Nawaal chose the Taro Matcha Latte. The sweetness of the taro complemented  the earthy matcha, creating a thicker, sweeter experience. Nawaal was delightfully pleased and gave it a 10/10.  

Christian Segovia/Fourth Estate

We also had to try the legendary Japanese pancakes–soufflés–often featured on TikTok and YouTube Shorts.. We ordered the Strawberry Soufflé, which according to the store’s Yelp page,  has an average wait time of 20 minutes. However, due to a rush of customers, our wait time increased to an hour. To pass the time, we visited Echo Base, a nearby comic store

When we finally got our soufflés, the strawberries and melted butter toppings were visually appealing and everything hit the spot as we would want in a breakfast pancake. Initially delicious, the pancakes quickly deflated, becoming dense and bland. The texture grew increasingly unpleasant, leading us to rate the soufflés 6/10. We highly recommend visiting Okaeri on a weekday to avoid the weekend rush.

Overall, our food crawl provided memorable moments, perfect for celebrating the end of the semester.

Sam Douglas/Fourth Estate

BY SAM DOUGLAS, ASSISTANT NEWS EDITOR

The Mason Board of Visitors met on May 1 for their final meeting of the 2024-2025 school year. Many topics that had been heavily discussed throughout the year in committees and around campus were scheduled to be voted on or talked about, including a resolution targeted at diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) that will affect the university’s Office of Access, Compliance, and Community (OACC), the tuition for the 2026 fiscal year, and a policy regarding Name, Image, Likeness (NIL) deals for student athletes.

The budget for the upcoming 2026 fiscal year had been discussed throughout the school year, most recently at the April 1 board public comment session and the April 10 Finance and Land Use Committee meeting. 

Visitors stressed the need for more funding, but expressed hesitation, especially at the idea of raising tuition.

“We have dealt with this issue on the backs of students for too long,” Visitor Reginald Brown said.

Sam Douglas/Fourth Estate

“We have a spending problem, not a revenue problem,” Visitor Lindsey M. Burke added.

Visitor Jeffrey A. Rosen felt that there were better ways to deal with the university’s financial needs. “Every dollar counts, I am not minimizing that, but that money can be found in other ways,” he said.

The proposal, motioned by Visitor and Chair of the Finance and Land Use Committee Robert Pence, would see no tuition increase for in-state students, but a 2.5% increase in student fees for all students. Out-of-state students would have their tuition increase as normal.

Visitor Burke and Visitor Jon M. Peterson made motions for revised versions of the proposal.

Burke proposed a 0% increase for in-state tuition as well as out-of-state tuition, with a 2.5% increase in student fees. Her motion failed 6-7-1, with Visitors Horace Blackman, Brown, Anjan Chimaladinne, William Hansen, Maureen Ohlhausen, Peterson and Nancy Gibson Prowitt voting against. Secretary Armand Alacbay abstained.

Peterson proposed a 2.5% increase for both in-state tuition and out-of-state tuition, including a 2.5% increase in student fees. His motion failed 7-7, with Secretary Alacbay and Visitors Brown, Burke, Hansen, Pence, Charles Cooper and Jeffrey A. Rosen voting against the proposition.

However, Pence’s proposal passed 10-4, with Visitors Blackman, Chimaladinne, Peterson, and Prowitt against.

A policy regarding Name, Image, Likeness (NIL) was also discussed and voted on. NIL allows student athletes to make money through endorsements and promotions and has swept across college sports since its introduction in 2021. The court case House v. NCAA, which would allow up to $20 million to be distributed by schools to student athletes, is set to be ruled on soon.

George Mason University Policy 4030 would allow third parties, NIL collectives, or boosters to negotiate NIL deals with student athletes and for the university to enter NIL deals directly with student athletes.

Regulations include all deals being disclosed to the university and deals over $600 being disclosed to a clearinghouse for review to make sure they follow NCAA rules.

Director of Intercollegiate Athletics Marvin Lewis discussed the policy with the Board, who voiced some anxieties with the proposition, fearing the effect it would have on the athletic department’s success if it were not passed.

Sam Douglas/Fourth Estate

“If we opt in, we basically have an athletic program. If we opt out, we do not,” Visitor Blackman summarized.

“We are competing with a little bit of our hands tied behind our back and with half the money we need to compete,” Blackman said, “I do not think we have a choice, to be quite honest with you.”

The Visitors stressed the need for oversight on NIL deals involving the school and its student athletes, with President Gregory Washington and Visitor Rosen suggesting the formation of a BOV subcommittee.

Lewis said that the amount of NIL money being paid to student athletes from the university right away would be in the millions, but that it would be crucial in getting and retaining players.

“If we don’t pass this today… are we going to lose signing opportunities for recruits?” Rector Cully Stimson asked.

“Yes,” Lewis responded.

The motion to approve the policy passed unanimously.

A previous action item that detailed the “RESOLUTION OF GEORGE MASON UNIVERSITY REGARDING THE PRESIDENTIAL EXECUTIVE ORDER ON DIVERSITY, EQUITY, AND INCLUSION” was discussed further by the full board. It had previously been discussed April 17 by the Academic Programs, Diversity, and University Community Committee, which will soon be renamed to the Academic Affairs Committee.

Outside of Merten Hall, Mason’s chapter of the American Association of University Professors held a press conference protesting against the resolution. On April 17, Faculty Representative Solon Simmons estimated that 90% of faculty were against the resolution.

Vice President of OACC, Sharnnia Artis, gave a presentation on what her office has done recently in regards to DEI. 

Graduate Student Representative Carolyn Faith Hoffman did not believe the proposed resolution was necessary.

“I think we wasted a lot of time this academic year talking about things we did not need to talk about. We could have gotten so much achieved for the students with all the passion that is here on this board, all the intelligence that is here on this board,” Hoffman said.

“I hope going forward next year we can focus on the classic issues that students really need taken care of.” Hoffman continued.

Earlier in the meeting, President Washington gave his annual president’s report. He highlighted some of the successes and troubles Mason has faced during the school year, citing increased uncertainty with the federal government, which has caused graduate enrollment to slip and caused some of Mason’s 2024-2025 Presidential Performance Metrics not to be reached.

“What started off as a stellar year is running into some real challenges,” Washington said.

Sam Douglas/Fourth Estate

Washington mentioned recent executive orders that have affected Mason, including the revoking of 15 students’ visas. He said the executive orders have cost Mason $16 million and that there is a significant drop in government opportunities for graduating seniors. 

Because of this drop, Washington unveiled the “Mason Career Academy,” which includes a set of programs that can give Mason students certificates and credentials from companies such as Amazon, Google, and IBM. Washington said that it will be available in a few weeks.

Sam Douglas/Fourth Estate

BY JASON RAGUSA, STAFF WRITER

With the regular season nearing its close, the George Mason baseball team stands at 29-16 overall and  14-7 mark in Atlantic 10 Conference play. The Patriots are currently tied for second place in conference standings, competing closely with Rhode Island and Saint Joseph’s for the top spot.

Mason has been quite successful at Spuhler Field, posting a  16-3 home record at , while going 11-12 on the road and 2-1 at neutral sites.

Earlier this season the Patriots rattled off a nine‑game winning streak, punctuated by a historic 26–6 victory over Holy Cross on March 4. Mason erupted for 23 runs in a single inning, shattering the previous NCAA record of 21 that had stood for 42 years. The outburst featured 11 hits—five of them doubles—along with eight walks, five hit batters and three errors, all without a single home run.

Junior outfielder James Quinn-Irons has been a key contributor, leading the team in hits, home runs and runs batted in (RBIs). He currently ranks second in the A-10 in batting average, tied for fourth in home runs, and leads the conference in both RBIs and hits. Quinn-Irons has been named Atlantic 10 Under Armor Baseball Player of the Week three times this season.

Sophomore infielder Owen Hull and junior infielder Owen Clyne have also played key roles in powering the Patriots’ offensive surge. Hull ranks second on the team with a .428 batting average, while also contributing 8 home runs and 55 RBIs. Close behind, Clyne holds the third-highest batting average at .348 and is fourth on the team with 50 RBIs.

On the mound, graduate right-hander Connor O’Hara leads the A-10 with a 1.80 earned run average (ERA) and ranks second in the conference with 78 strikeouts. O’Hara holds a 7-2 record through 13 starts. 

On March 15, O’Hara threw his second complete game of the season in an 8-0 win over Dayton, allowing just five singles, striking out six, and walking one in a 104-pitch performance. This earned him the A-10 Pitcher of the Week honors on March 17.

Junior Brandon Cassedy and graduate student Sam Lavin made key contributions on the mound. Cassedy ranks second on the team with a 6-1 record, a 3.59 ERA, and 68 strikeouts, while Lavin is third with a 3-0 record, a 5.59 ERA and 39 strikeouts.

Statistically, the Patriots lead the Atlantic 10 in both team batting average and earned run average. They hold a conference-best .341 batting average, well ahead of second-place Richmond at .319. On the mound, the Patriots also set the pace with a 4.63 ERA, much lower than Richmond’s 5.69, the next best in the league.

Mason opens a pivotal three‑game series against Saint Joseph’s on Friday, May 2. The outcome will go a long way toward deciding the final Atlantic 10 standings before the conference championship tournament begins Tuesday, May 20 in Richmond, Va.

Melanie Jensen/Fourth Estate

BY MELANIE JENSEN, STAFF WRITER

While the relaxing blend of pop and R&B music of Green and Gold Soul drifted through the Center for the Arts and members of the Mason community socialized, waitstaff wove among the guests to collect empty paper bowls to throw in the trash.  

These bowls had once been full of potato leek, vegetarian enchilada and chicken tortilla soup. After guests enjoyed their soup, desserts and bread, they left with a full belly and a handcrafted ceramic bowl to remind them of the students who face empty bowls and food insecurity every day. 

Empty Bowls, a national grassroots initiative, pairs donated pottery from local artists’ with fundraising for hunger-relief charities. LeRoy Gruebbs, the potter behind the organization’s website, described the organization as a vehicle for a global issue to be addressed at a local level. “We are changing the world one person at a time, one bowl at a time,” he said.

Wednesday, April 30, marked the second Empty Bowls event on Mason’s Fairfax campus, organized by experienced potters Maggie Daniels, professor of Tourism and Events Management, and Lauren Long, executive director of Student Involvement.. The event raised $11,300 for hungry students, surpassing last year’s  $10,442. 

“It’s just a lovely evening to raise money, support and awareness of the students we have that need help on campus so that they can continue to thrive,” Long said. To ensure every dollar counted, she and Daniels structured the night as a zero-cost event, so that all proceeds from online donations, ticket sales, table sponsors and silent auction bids go directly to the Mason Student Food and Housing Insecurity Fund. 

Managed by the Student Support and Advocacy Center (SSAC), the fund pays for food and hygiene products for Mason’s on-campus food pantry program Patriot Pantry. 

“We work to encourage food security, reduce the stigma surrounding food insecurity and promote student success by alleviating concerns that prevent students from fully engaging in their collegiate experience,” said Dwayne Hamilton Jr., the assistant director for Basic Needs Services within the SSAC. “The incredible generosity of the Empty Bowls attendees last year contributed to the distribution of over 14,000 pounds of items to 650 students in need in the last academic year.”

In the 2023-2024 school year, 23,212 pounds of food and hygiene products were distributed to 818 students on campus, according to a booklet provided to guests at the Empty Bowls event. It stated that since 2020, Patriot Pantry had seen a 243% increase in students using the pantry. 

According to Hamilton, SSAC is in the early stages of fundraising for and constructing a new and improved Patriot Pantry on campus to even better serve the rising number of Mason students suffering from food insecurity.  

More than 100 people attended Empty Bowls, each choosing one of over 300 handmade ceramics donated by artists from Manassas Clay, Reston Community Center Ceramics, TealNest Pottery, Workhouse Arts Center and a number of other local artists. Both Daniels and Long also made and donated bowls for the event.

Melanie Jensen/Fourth Estate

Event partners—including the Center for the Arts and Mason Dining provider Sodexo—donated the event space, staff, food and refreshments. Green and Gold Soul, a Mason student-led band, and Bronwyn Weikert, a master’s student who sings with the Mason choral department, performed for free throughout the evening.

“Sodexo has been on campus for the last 38 years, and every single semester, we try to understand our students more and more and figure out how to better support them,” said Sophie Nelson, marketing and sustainability manager for Mason Dining. Sodexo donates 2,000 meal swipes every year to Patriot Pantry through their Stop Hunger Foundation, giving food-insecure students the chance to eat, study and socialize in dining halls, according to Nelson. 

Sodexo also runs a round-up campaign across retail dining locations on campus, giving students, faculty and visitors an opportunity to donate to Patriot Pantry when they grab lunch in the Johnson Center or the Student Hub. 

Melanie Jensen/Fourth Estate

Silent-auction items ranged from a custom T-shirt blanket crafted by Hope Miller, associate director of Student Involvement, to four tickets to a performance of Disney on Ice at EagleBank Arena among more than 15 lots up for bid.

To close out the evening’s speeches, Daniels quoted John F. Kennedy, “‘The war against hunger is truly a war of liberation.’ Your support has liberated Mason students to learn, to dream and to achieve.” 

Students seeking assistance can log in to the SSAC with Mason credentials, complete a brief needs form, and be enrolled in at least one credit hour. No financial information is required.

BY ZACHARY LINCOLN, STAFF WRITER

Today, George Mason welcomed its 71st Student Body President and Vice President, Isaiah Grays and Jonathan Dubois, along with members of our first Undergraduate Representative Body. It is a moment to celebrate our traditions of student governance and the peaceful transfer of power, especially in these turbulent times. However, there are some warnings that our new Government should heed in order to best represent their fellow students.

First, I want to acknowledge the outgoing Cuesta-McAulay administration: their efforts to protect our most vulnerable students and uphold diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) initiatives in the face of attacks from the federal and state governments deserve credit and recognition. 

However, in my time in the Student Senate, I was particularly troubled by the fact that their Cabinet built themselves into an echo chamber—a trap we as humans fall into all too often—and expected Senators would vote for whatever they supported simply because they said so. Meanwhile, they, along with my fellow Senators, often failed to show up for those we claimed to champion, as past student governments have. Pointing to why a significant majority of our student body—particularly those in our Black and Jewish communities—felt that their government left them out and was not important enough for them to participate in. 

I believe that when a government becomes an echo chamber or a rubber stamp for any ideology, no matter how altruistic, and when people do not participate nor speak out against it, that government can no longer be considered democratic or fully representative of the people. Those who rightfully criticize this shift happening in our federal government must ensure that our student government does not follow suit.

When our new elected officials were sworn in today, they did not take an oath to pad their resumes or treat this body like a social club. They took an oath of their own volition to represent ALL of George Mason’s student body — unconditional of who they are, what they believe or where they’ve been in life.

In doing so, they should understand why they do this: not as a show of power but as a dedication to fight for issues that actually matter to our student body like improving services, accessibility and their academic experience.

They should strive to welcome everyone, regardless of where they stand politically, by creating a culture that lets ideas and opinions flow freely; where friendly discourse and debate are not only welcomed, but encouraged and applauded. We are “all together different”, after all.

But most importantly, they should show up for the people they serve. I applaud those who attended today’s Board of Visitors meeting as they consider rolling back crucial initiatives that protect the diversity we pride ourselves upon, yet this should be only the beginning when it comes to showing up. There is no greater show of leadership than earnestly and unconditionally being there for those you represent; not because you feel they should be “saved” by their government or by any other ulterior motive but because it is simply the right thing to do. 

In 1775, our namesake George Mason wrote that “every society, all government, and every kind of civil compact therefore, is or ought to be, calculated for the general good and safety of the community.” While his society fell short of those lofty ideals, it’s not too late for us to pick up the mantle and strive towards that more perfect union Mason fought so hard for. I know I will and I hope my fellow students—both in and out of government—will too.

Emma Schaible/Fourth Estate

BY CAROLINE FRISBY, STAFF WRITER

As a graduating senior, I’ve been taking the time to reflect on my years as a college student. The amount of self-growth I’ve seen in myself has helped me to lead a more fulfilling life. While there are many aspects of life that people might want to improve, I’ve grown in my mindset the most. Before I graduate, I’d love to impart some of my hard-earned wisdom onto the world. 

One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is that while sometimes comparison can help us learn from others, oftentimes it results in selling ourselves short. As Theodore Roosevelt said, “Comparison is the thief of joy.” Comparing oneself to other people has become easier to do than ever before because of social media. I often felt inadequate as a result of my comparisons. 

However, the thing to remember is that there is more to others than we realize. When you compare yourself to another person, you’re only seeing part of the picture.

For example, I used to feel like I was behind in life because a few of my friends had romantic relationships whereas I have never had them before. Over time, I saw that both being single and being in a relationship have difficult aspects. Since then, I’ve embraced that everyone is on their own unique path in life. Instead of trying to measure up with others, I learned to embrace my own strengths and celebrate small wins.

Another lesson I’ve learned is that some things are just out of my control. Although I am excited for this chapter of my life to end, I’m also anxious about what I will do after I graduate. I’ve tried applying to several internships but did not get past the interview stage. Recently, I had an interview with a hiring manager from a small non-profit organization. The interviewer seemed really excited about having me on their team because her organization was looking for someone who had strong video production skills. She even asked me how soon I would be able to start the position.

I was thrilled and sent an email the next morning saying that I would be available to start a part time position in early April. However, I never heard back from her. That experience was discouraging, and I felt anxious about finding a job that would work out for me. Since this organization was a non-profit, this opportunity may have been impacted by the cuts to federal government spending and perhaps could not afford to hire another person. 

In retrospect, I think that I was too quick to blame myself. I realize that sometimes opportunities do not work out due to factors beyond my control. Small shifts in perspective can make a huge difference. Life will always have its obstacles, but it’s how you respond to them that matters. There are other opportunities out there. I just need to search for them.

Another lesson I’ve learned while in college is the importance of building good relationships. In high school, I did not have a lot of close friends and felt especially isolated and lonely during the COVID-19 lockdowns. The Office of the Surgeon General said isolation negatively impacts one’s well-being. For example, adults who report loneliness are more likely to develop depression than adults who do not. However, Co-Founder and CEO of Kindness.org Jaclyn Lindsay said that doing acts of kindness for others has many benefits, including relieving stress and reducing anxiety.

I saw the impact of kindness in my own life when I joined a student organization and made friends. It’s so important to have people in your life who are supportive of you, vice versa. 

Last summer, my grandfather passed away. Although he’d been unwell for the past few weeks, no one in my family expected him to go so soon. When I confided in one of my friends about my grief, she was there to comfort me. She asked me to share my fondest memories of him, and doing so helped me to heal. By opening up to others in my community about my problems, I learned that I am not alone.

Pats for Patriots, a program within the Center for the Advancement of Well-Being at Mason, understands how small acts of kindness can go a long way. Participants can send words of appreciation to a member of the Mason community by filling out an online form. I highly encourage everyone to submit a kind note to Pats for Patriots. You never know how much someone needs to hear a few words of encouragement. 

To anyone who is currently going through the same difficulties I have, and would encourage you too, to know that you have a lot to offer and to not to sell yourself short. College life comes with ups and downs. Just remember that other people are in the same boat.

Saahiti Kiran Chamala/Fourth Estate

BY SAAHITI KIRAN CHAMALA, CO-EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Nestled in the bustling streets of Dupont Circle, Astoria DC might not immediately grab attention from the outside, but once inside, it reveals one of the coziest and most memorable dining experiences in the city.

At first glance, the restaurant’s exterior is simple and understated — almost easy to miss. But stepping through the doors transports you into a different world: a small, bustling space full of lively energy, with a cozy yet sophisticated atmosphere. The interior gives off the feeling of a mystical train car, creating a setting that feels both intimate and exciting.

Astoria is conveniently just steps from the Dupont Circle Metro Station on the Red Line, making it an easy destination for both locals and visitors.

Getting a table here, however, requires some planning. Reservations typically fill up weeks in advance, and I surprisingly snagged a spot due to a last-minute cancellation. The restaurant is open Monday through Sunday, from 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., with peak hours filling up quickly, especially on weekends.

Astoria structures its menu a little differently, offering Dishes for one, Dishes for sharing and Extra-large dishes rather than traditional starters and entrees. I was slightly disappointed to find that there were no single-portion chicken dishes, only larger stir-fry chicken options meant for sharing and none that involved noodles, which I had been craving.

Still, the menu had plenty to offer. We ordered the Beef Noodles, Vegan Beef Noodles, and OG La Zi Chicken — a spicy Thai-style fried chicken tossed with peanuts, chilies and Sichuan peppercorns.

Saahiti Kiran Chamala/Fourth Estate

The noodles were exceptional. The beef and vegan versions were packed with flavor, perfectly cooked, and hearty without feeling too heavy. Sophomore Mohamed El Hadj Sidi, shared a similar sentiment, saying, “The beef noodles were amazing, and had a great level of kick and spice, but weren’t too spicy.”

The OG La Zi Chicken was a highlight as well: crispy, flavorful and aromatic, though the spice level was milder than expected. It felt more like a great shared appetizer than a standalone main dish, but pairing it with the noodles made for a filling meal.

In addition to the cuisine, we tried a few mocktails. They were solid companions to the meal, offering good flavor without being particularly standout. 

Reflecting on the experience, Sophomore Faris Madani, said, “Astoria’s ambiance, music choices, and food blew me out of the water. Their OG La-Zi chicken dish had the perfect amount of spice and crisp to it, and went great with my sweet ginger drink.” He added that he would definitely recommend the restaurant.

Astoria offers great value for the quality and quantity of food. Dishes for One are typically priced around $16-$23, Dishes for Sharing fall in the $24–$26 range, and Extra-Large Dishes, perfect for groups, cost about $40–$45. With generous portions designed for sharing, the pricing feels fair and accessible.

Though the menu could benefit from more single-serving chicken options, the overall experience, from the atmosphere to the food, makes it a standout spot in Dupont Circle. I’ll definitely be returning, hopefully to explore even more of what their intriguing menu has to offer.

Melanie Jensen/Fourth Estate

BY MELANIE JENSEN, STAFF WRITER

The perfect way to acknowledge and thank a thoughtful friend, supportive professor or hardworking classmate is through the Mason Chooses Kindness initiative, which provides an opportunity to show your appreciation through a small gesture. 

Pats for Patriots is a free award program under the Center for the Advancement of Well-Being that allows students, faculty, alumni and people outside of the Mason community to nominate each other for their kind acts. The submission and award is entirely online, and anyone wishing to send a Pat can fill out a Microsoft Form on the Pats for Patriots website.

The sender fills out the name, email and affiliation to Mason of the person they’d like to nominate. They also provide their own name and Mason affiliation before writing a personalized, short message of gratitude that will be included in the e-card sent to the recipient. The form also gives the sender the option to stay anonymous.

Philip Wilkerson, an Employer Engagement Consultant for Career Services and a Communication PhD student at Mason, founded the Pats for Patriots program in October of 2021. He was inspired by the Darts and Pats program at James Madison University (JMU), where he studied for undergrad. 

Wilkerson said the Breeze, JMU’s student newspaper, published anonymous student comments ranging from roommate complaints to classmate thank-yous. The positive submissions were called Pats and the negative were called Darts.Wilkerson was inspired by the positivity of the Pats and wanted to incorporate it into the Mason community.

“Why do we always have to wait for something big to recognize kindness? We should be able to do that with small things too,” Wilkerson said. “Let’s not wait for monumental things to celebrate. Let’s celebrate everyday moments.”

Alongside with his alma mater’s school newspaper, Wilkerson said his mentor Lewis Forest, an associate dean for University Life at Mason, also inspired his involvement with the Center for the Advancement of Well-Being. When the center created the Mason Chooses Kindness initiative in 2020, Forest encouraged his colleagues to get involved.

Wilkerson keeps track of each Pats submission in a Microsoft Excel spreadsheet, and since its creation in 2021, nearly 2,200 Pats have been shared among faculty, students, alumni and others. Each year, Wilkerson receives more submissions than the last, with only 239 in 2022 to 1,238 in 2024. While faculty and alumni submit their fair share of Pats, student submissions makeup around 50% of all nominations. 

Some students took advantage of the program to thank their friends for helping them through a tough time, while others thanked their professors for supporting their academic journey. Faculty thanked their colleagues for being hardworking and thoughtful. Students were thanked for their hard work in the classroom and across campus.

“That was so kind of you to purchase bouquets of flowers to hand out to people for Valentine’s Day. I’m sure you made many people’s day by doing that, and it really shows how small gestures can be so impactful! Thank you for representing what Mason Chooses Kindness is all about!” said a Pat submission from faculty to a student. 

One student wrote to another, “Not only are you a helpful, kind and amazing coworker, you’re an incredible person. You help us out when we need it the most, you do more than you have to, and you do it all without question. We love you.”  

Another student said, “I hope you know you’re doing the best you can. We are all doing life for the first time so it is given that there’ll be mistakes.” 

Each submission represents someone on campus reaching out to a member of their community to celebrate the small moments of kindness, strength and understanding, just as Wilkerson had intended when Pats for Patriots began. 

While he acknowledges the growth in the number of nominations each year, Wilkerson hopes the program can soon reach every student and member of the Mason community on campus.

“I’ve noticed the frequent flyers,” Wilkerson said. “The people that do know it, really use it. I think the hardest part is getting to new people.” 

To promote the program, Wilkerson said faculty from the Center for the Advancement of Well-Being reserve kiosks in the Johnson Center to talk to students. They provide a QR code for the Pats for Patriots nomination form in hopes of getting even more student and faculty participation. 

While the outside world can often feel overwhelming, fast-paced and sometimes ugly, the Pats for Patriots initiative gives the Mason community a way to recenter and focus on appreciating the small acts of people around them. Each submission is a small step towards a kinder campus.

Saahiti Kiran Chamala/Fourth Estate

BY SAAHITI KIRAN CHAMALA, CO-EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Located in the heart of Washington, D.C., Milk Bar brings its iconic sweets to the capital — but not without some letdowns. If taking the metro, switch to the red line and hop off at Dupont Circle station. From there, the shop arrives in view after a 10-minute walk. The hours at Milk Bar are Monday through Sunday, from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.

At first glance, Milk Bar’s menu seems packed with options — from milkshakes and soft serves to a variety of cookies and cake slices. It’s easy to be excited seeing the colorful displays and creative flavor names. However, the reality didn’t quite live up to the hype.

I tried three of their well-known items: the Birthday Cake Cookie, the Birthday Cake Milk Quake and a Red Velvet Cheesecake Cake Slice.

Starting with the Birthday Cake Cookie, it was honestly underwhelming with a 4/10 rating. There was nothing particularly special that set it apart; it felt like just another basic cookie with sprinkles, lacking the rich, buttery flavor you might expect from a famous bakery.

As for the Birthday Cake Milk Quake, the experience was mixed. The consistency was notably thick, and the first bite offered a promising, nostalgic taste. However, as I kept eating, it quickly lost its appeal; the sweetness became overpowering and the flavor monotonous, making it hard to finish.

The Red Velvet Cheesecake Cake Slice was the most interesting of the trio. The texture was more doughy than a traditional cake, almost like a dense cookie rather than a fluffy slice. Still, the flavor was decent and stood out compared to the other items. I would rate it a 6/10 and would consider trying other cake flavors from their menu.

Another letdown was the soft serve selection. Sophomore Mohamed El Hadj Sidi commented, “The soft serve was not great and there were not many flavor options.” Compared to the extensive menus advertised online, the real-life selection felt surprisingly limited.

Echoing a similar sentiment, sophomore Faris Madani shared, “From what I’ve seen online, Milk Bar has honestly underwhelmed me. Their birthday cake items were bland, and the red velvet cheesecake flavors did not complement each other.”

Overall, while Milk Bar DC impresses at first glance with its wide variety of offerings and vibrant branding, the actual flavors and textures left much to be desired. If you’re in the area and curious, it might still be worth a visit — just manage your expectations.

(Photo Credits: Fred Schilling, Collection of the Supreme Court of the United States)

BY KARLOS CORIA, STAFF WRITER

In a surprising turn of events, Supreme Court Justice Amy Coney Barrett has emerged as a potential check on President Donald Trump’s influence — and, by extension, on the ideological expectations of those who once celebrated her confirmation.

Barrett has broken from her conservative colleagues in several high-profile rulings, drawing criticism from right-wing commentators and lawmakers who now deride her as a “DEI hire” or a “closet Democrat.” Yet these attacks reveal more about the critics than about Barrett herself.

Her recent decisions demonstrate a clear allegiance, not to a party or personality, but to constitutional principles and the rule of law. That should be a welcome development to anyone who cares about judicial integrity.

Yes, Barrett voted to overturn Roe v. Wade, a decision that will forever stain her legacy in the eyes of many progressives. However, reducing her entire judicial philosophy to that one vote ignores a more nuanced and evolving picture. Barrett, at this stage, is not proving to be a Republican loyalist in robes — she is, at times, acting as the impartial judge Americans should want on the bench.

The fury directed at her by conservatives shows a fundamental misunderstanding of how the judiciary is supposed to work. Supreme Court justices are not elected officials. They are not supposed to carry out a president’s agenda or bend to the political leanings of their base. The separation of powers — a concept conservatives claim to revere — exists precisely to prevent that.

To say Barrett is “betraying” the conservative cause is to admit that some only support the rule of law when it suits them. But that’s not how the Constitution works. The same way progressives had to live with Dobbs v. Jackson, conservatives now must reckon with a justice who is not afraid to rule against a Republican president when his actions appear unconstitutional.

Barrett’s decisions span the political spectrum — and why shouldn’t they? No justice should vote consistently along partisan lines. That would not be neutrality; that would be bias. Barrett’s recent record suggests she is capable of setting aside personal ideology in favor of legal reasoning. Along with Chief Justice John Roberts, she has shown moments of independence that should be encouraged, not condemned.

This is not to say she is without flaws. No member of the current Court, left or right, is above critique. But in a political climate where polarization often seeps into every branch of government, Barrett’s willingness to disappoint both parties at different times may actually be her strongest qualification.

No matter your political stance, a justice who can rule fairly — even when it means ruling against her own side — is exactly what the Court needs. If that bothers you, perhaps the problem isn’t Barrett. Perhaps, it’s how you view the law.

Emma Schaible / Fourth Estate

BY NYLAH MITCHELL, COPY EDITOR 

School ends, and summer internships begin. There’s a collective release of stress and relief after finally accepting an internship offer following rounds of interviews and rejections. Though it can feel like a lot of work, summertime is arguably the best time to intern, with the warm weather, outdoor mixers and ever-adventurous side tasks. 

However, if it’s your first internship and you’re unsure how to dress appropriately in the office, this guide is for you. 

Hot tip: Tight, dark suits and sweltering weather do not go together. Don’t attempt it — it won’t be worth it in the long run.  

Light Cardigans 

Sleeveless blouses are perfectly suitable for the summertime, especially when outside. Depending on the dress code requirements, it’s best to keep a light cardigan handy — both for modesty and for chilly office temperatures. 

Linen 

The best clothing for summer is breathable, airy fabric such as linen. For offices with Summer Fridays, linen is great for shorter work days followed by post-work dinners. Try structured tops, such as button-downs, peplums, or tunics, paired with relaxed-fit linen pants for a polished yet comfortable look. The downside to linen is that it wrinkles easily, due to its low elasticity and high moisture absorption. 

Cotton 

Though dark suits and hot weather don’t pair well, if caught in a limbo that calls for a more professional look, opt for 100%, full cotton suits. Cotton is thicker than linen but thinner than wool, offering a lightweight, breathable and cool to the touch wear. Shades like grey, beige, and cool blue are also hot weather-approved for its reflecting nature.  

Dresses 

Finding the perfect balance between modesty, formal and chic can be tricky, but midi-length dresses are the best of all worlds. Flowy, A-line styles are office-appropriate for a swinging silhouette and are dressy enough for fancy dinners after work. If worried about the neckline on a sleeveless dress, consider a boat-neck that stretches across the tops of the shoulders. 

Shoes 

If the workplace involves miles of walking, such as Capitol Hill, then the best advice is to have a pair of solid white sneakers on deck. Sure, heels and flats may be timeless feminine staples, but if you’re running errands back-to-back, it’s best to wear a shoe that makes you feel comfortable on the go. White sneakers with minimal logos like Vejas and all-white Adidas Sambas are great for a fresh, clean look. 

Casual Days 

On more relaxed days, medium or dark wash jeans strike the perfect balance between casual and put together. Jeans in the office are chic when styled with a waist-length blouse and sleek, comfortable shoes. For a more relaxed yet preppy outfit, try a white t-shirt with a light sweater tossed over the shoulders. 

Summer outfits, whether for an internship or not, are all about trial and error. The key is to move slowly and prepare for the unexpected: cold offices, humid temperatures and random downpours are all part of the season.

Saahiti Kiran Chamala/Fourth Estate

BY SAAHITI KIRAN CHAMALA, CO-EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

If you’re ever riding the Orange Line train and find yourself hopping off at Dunn Loring with a sweet tooth, there’s one spot you absolutely can’t miss—Rice Culture. This hidden gem, tucked just a short walk from the metro, is the ultimate late-night dessert destination for adventurous foodies and soft-serve enthusiasts.

Self-described as a place “where tradition meets innovation in Asian desserts,” Rice Culture takes that mission seriously—and deliciously. Their star attraction? A $10 soft serve that’s anything but ordinary. Swirled into a cup or cone, these unique soft serves come crowned with a golden, crispy taiyaki—a fish-shaped waffle filled with a choice of custard, cookie butter, red bean, Nutella or even Oreo cream. And the best part? Unlimited toppings. Yes, that’s correct—unlimited.

Flavor-wise, Rice Culture doesn’t shy away from the bold or the beautiful; floral sakura milk, delicate lychee, vibrant ube and the ever-popular cookies and cream. Every flavor delivers a distinct experience, marrying Asian-inspired roots with modern presentation. As sophomore Alia Daniels, describes it, “Rice Culture is great—the ice cream flavors were really good, not too sweet. Thai and Sakura taiyaki are my favorite.”

But the magic doesn’t stop at the soft serve. The café offers an impressive range of drinks, from colorful refreshers to classic coffees, alongside jar desserts that range from fizzy floats to creamy, traditional rice puddings. Each item is crafted with a focus on aesthetic and flavor, truly Instagram-worthy and unforgettable. Sophomore Taylor Jackson,  raved, “Rice Culture taiyaki with Nutella filling was the BOMB.”

Saahiti Kiran Chamala/Fourth Estate

Rice Culture has two other locations in Chantilly and Tysons, though the menu offerings at each spot vary, making every visit a fresh and flavorful experience. Whether craving something cool, creamy or culturally rich, Rice Culture is the spot worth coming back to—especially on the summer nights  in the Northern Virginia area when only a taiyaki-topped treat will do.

Saahiti Kiran Chamala/Fourth Estate

BY SAAHITI KIRAN CHAMALA, CO-EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Nestled in Old Town Fairfax, and a pleasant stroll from the Mason campus, lies my personal favorite café, De Clieu. This cozy local spot has captured the hearts of many with its signature house-made syrups, unique drinks and all-day breakfast sandwiches. Open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., De Clieu hums with activity the moment it opens its doors, drawing both early risers and afternoon loungers alike.

Having frequented the café precisely at its opening hour several times, I can confirm its consistent popularity. With diverse options catering to both vegetarian and meat-loving patrons, there’s something delectable for everyone. My personal recommendation is the “Crazy Irishman,” an irresistible blend of egg, cheddar, a crispy hash brown patty and mustard aioli, enveloped in baked focaccia. 

Sophomore Mohamed El Hadj Sidi, declared the Irishman was, “One of the best breakfast sandwiches I’ve had. After eating it, my life changed. I didn’t know what a breakfast sandwich was until I had that.”

Faris Madani, another Mason student, enthusiastically recommends their roast beef sandwich. He said, “Every one of their breakfast sandwiches hits the spot, but their roast beef sandwich truly fills me up for the day.”

No visit to De Clieu is complete without trying their famed Matcha Blossom—a matcha latte infused with organic, house-made rose syrup. Faris described it as “a beautiful blend of earthy matcha and sweet floral notes.” Mohamed enthusiastically added, “The matcha is absolutely ridiculously amazing.”

What truly sets De Clieu apart is its commitment to quality and authenticity. Junior Terrel “Rell,” a barista at the café, highlighted how Du Clieu stands apart from other cafés: “Our syrups are nearly all house-made. We use real vanilla beans and vanilla bean paste for our drinks, making each sip truly special.”

Rell emphasized that De Clieu prioritizes balancing sweetness with authentic flavor profiles. “We try to match the concentration and sweetness of our syrups with our espresso to truly highlight our fresh beans and partnership with the quality-focused company Intelligentsia,” he said. The seasonal menu is particularly innovative, offering new and trendy syrup concoctions regularly.

Whether looking for a place to study, unwind, or simply savor delicious food and drinks, De Clieu is undeniably a spot worth frequenting.

Saahiti Kiran Chamala/Fourth Estate

BY SAAHITI KIRAN CHAMALA, CO-EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Before I set foot in El Presidente, I knew I was in for something special. The experience began with their website—yes, the website. From the moment I reserved a table online, I was hooked. Sleek, playful, and thoughtfully designed, it immediately gave off the atmosphere of a place where memories are made, not just meals.

Located conveniently near the NoMa-Gallaudet U New York Ave metro on the red line, El Presidente blends accessibility with elegance, making it a go-to for special occasions without breaking the bank. Whether celebrating a birthday, anniversary, or just dressing up to feel a little bougie, this place delivers.

Walking into the restaurant is like stepping into a dreamscape of vibrant colors and unexpected charm. The bar greeted me with deep teal-blue interiors, bold red accents, and quirky sea creature decorations that are somehow both whimsical and chic. The dining room too is nothing short of breathtaking—bathed in warm red tones and anchored by a mural so beautiful it practically begs to be photographed for Instagram.

Saahiti Kiran Chamala/Fourth Estate

The menu arrived and it was full of diverse, inclusive and delightful surprises. Starting with a classic guacamole, an easy 11/10, served with unlimited chips; my friends and I found ourselves scraping the bowl clean. However, the small portion sizes that continued into our main courses were disappointing. I ordered the Enchiladas Suizas, including shredded chicken, green chile-tomatillo cream sauce, and Chihuahua cheese. It wasn’t the best, but it wasn’t bad either—solid 7/10. Sophomore Kayla Smalls, who also ordered enchiladas, commented, “My enchiladas were too small.”

Saahiti Kiran Chamala/Fourth Estate

Despite the modest portions, the menu offers something for everyone, with endless vegan and gluten-free options, not the usual token salad and sad entrée. Cocktails can be customized to be alcohol-free, making the space inclusive for all.

When it comes to price, El Presidente does lean on the expensive side. “Their crab enchiladas and the dessert were really good, but it’s not college student friendly,” said sophomore Alia Daniels. For most of us, it’s a restaurant we would visit for a special occasion.

For dessert, we went all in, ordering everything on the dessert menu except the churros. The standout was hands down the Mexican chocolate pudding. It was rich, decadent and indulgent enough to forget the price tag.

The real magic happens when there’s a celebration. The staff goes above and beyond—singing happy birthday and delivering a complimentary scoop of their delicious sorbet topped with a lit candle and a handwritten wish note that makes the visit even more special.

El Presidente is not just a restaurant—it’s an experience; one that I now associate with joy, flavor, and a little bit of sparkle. If looking for a place that turns a dinner into a memory, this is it.

Viviana Smith/Fourth Estate

BY VIVIANA SMITH, SENIOR STAFF WRITER

As of April 9, Princeton University was added to the list of schools who had research funding cut due to “exaggerated and implausible climate threats,” reported in The New York Times. Sure, talking about climate change causes “climate anxiety.” But maybe it should. 

The challenge of acknowledging the Inconvenient Truth is slightly fearful, because, if correct, we know what’ll happen to Earth in the long-run. 

This seems like peak existentialism rhetoric, but I am not suggesting you throw yourself into the deep end of fighting the climate crisis. Instead, maybe it should start with a powerful conversation. 

On Friday April 18, at the Planet Forward 2025 summit, author and environmentalist Bill McKibben, the summit’s keynote speaker, began his speech detailing the concerns and, quite frankly, the horrors of climate change. After reminding the audience about the crushing reality of Earth’s gradual troubles, he left the audience with a sliver of hope, highlighting that the real change starts with open conversations. 

McKibben mentioned a young generation of activists, who push narratives of climate advocacy that uplifts our nation’s strengths. He corrected the current perception on renewable energy, stating that it’s generally marketed as the expensive option. 

“We’ve got lodged in our minds that clean energy is ‘alternative energy…’ the Whole Foods of energy,” he joked. “It is actually the Costco of energy.” 

McKibben points out that it’s not about discussing reality, rather how we publicly convey that reality. If we can find effective methods, there’s more room for conversation and understanding. “The message, if we can get it across, will be extraordinarily useful in setting the political framework… make it more possible to change the laws,” he said.

The art of oratory and rhetoric is integral to humans. Storytelling is what we do best. This innate tool is more powerful than people realize. People have many ways of crafting an effective story while putting their unique spin on the narrative. That’s not to say we can fabricate stories for a message, but create based on facts and evidence. 

Individuals like filmmaker and photographer Alex Rubenstein make a living through environmental storytelling, serving in a unique role in the climate action movement. As a naturalist on Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic, he educates guests about the beautiful world around him and snaps captivating photos.

“For me, visual environmental storytelling isn’t complete if it doesn’t also include calls to action for the viewer,” Rubenstein said. Whether in a photo, video or other medium, Rubenstein says it gives people a new perspective, regardless of distance. 

“I think visual storytelling is one of the only ways to immerse people in the wild spaces to which they normally might not have access,” he said. “Nature is healing. It’s powerful.”

Remembering our roles in this is important to the conversation. Most understand the impact of climate change and global warming on polar bears, and we connect on a shared love for animals—but when you turn the tv off or  press “skip ad,” how much does climate change matter? 

This problem is our problem, too—not just the polar bears. Our society cannot flourish without an Earth to exist on. 

More importantly, these problems can fall into the hands of the next generations. And with a government-backed push for people to create more families, the environment’s well-being should be just as important to support this “need.”

Rubenstein shared a quote from David Attenbourough, stating, “if children don’t grow up knowing about nature and appreciating it, they will not understand it. And if they don’t understand it, they won’t protect it.”

It has never been just about us. The ecosystem is a multitude of biological components working together to breathe life to continue the “circle of life.”

It’s necessary that we reform our attitudes towards climate and environment to drive inclusion in conversations. 

“While we need immediate action on all fronts, I feel [visual storytelling] is helping shift cultural perceptions of climate change,” Rubenstein concluded. “We have decades of propaganda to undo and we have to start somewhere. And we have to keep fighting together.”

Melanie Jensen/Fourth Estate

BY MELANIE JENSEN, STAFF WRITER 

A small office of veterans looking to guide other military-affiliated students sits hidden in the hallways of the Student Union Building on the northwest side of Mason’s Fairfax campus. Without the guidance of the front desk attendant, students may hardly know the office is there.

Similarly, veteran students often blend into the crowd. Yet, their resiliency, dedication to their education and willingness to help others make them stand out from other Patriots. 

According to Jennifer Connors, director and founder of the Office of Military Services, about 10% of Mason’s student population is military-connected–meaning they are active duty, on reserve, a veteran, or a dependent of a serviceperson. Connors said this figure represents students who either self-report on their Mason application or apply for federal education benefits. 

Rylee Ledoux served four years in the Air Force before applying to Mason for her undergraduate degree in Environmental Science. Recently accepted into an accelerated master’s program at Mason, Ledoux credits her military experience for her commitment to education. 

“The Air Force is very education-focused, and it’s pushed a lot when you’re on active duty to take classes or to use your tuition assistance,” Ledoux said. “So, being in the Air Force may be a little bit easier to transition into college.”

Ledoux entered the Air Force shortly after graduating high school, serving at Little Rock Air Force Base in Arkansas, where she worked in the communicable diseases rotation of public health, including studying ticks and other bugs with entomologists. It was there that her love for environmental science began, and where she met her close friend Briannah Colton.

Colton, a pre-med Biology major, followed Ledoux when she transitioned to Mason after serving six years in the Air Force. Colton originally attempted to attend college right after high school but realized she didn’t have the financial means to continue. She then enlisted in the Air Force under a strict agreement with her recruiter to be placed  in public health. 

“I didn’t really know what I wanted to do until after my journey in the Air Force. So being in public health is kind of what cemented my choice in medicine,” Colton said.

While pursuing their degrees, Ledoux and Colton both work in the Office of Military Services, allowing them to connect with Mason’s military community, including student-employees like Kyle Klopfenstein.

Klopfenstein, a junior at Mason majoring in Government and International Politics, served six years as a combat engineer in the Army. He described his job as keeping Army forces moving while slowing down enemy forces with tools like wire obstacles and high explosives. 

“Combat engineers are kind of like the pocketknife of the Army. We have a function for just about everything. Do you have a door you want blown in? We can do that. A minefield, you need a path blasted through, or someone to go IED [improvised explosive device] hunting? That’s us,” Klopfenstein said.

Though he credits his combat experience for building resilience, Klopfenstein described the Army as a “soul-crushing palace of depression,” and felt like his work lacked purpose. Seeking to make a real difference, he turned to higher education.  

Klopfenstein’s combat experience gives him a unique perspective when advising students about service. He prides himself on brutal honesty, offering a well-rounded view without the typical glorification from recruiters. 

Along with advising, Connors and Military Services help students select a VA-approved major, obtain a Certificate of Eligibility for benefits, submit a Veterans Registration and Reporting Form to certify those benefits and more. Most benefits are accessed through different chapters of the GI Bill, an act signed into law by President Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1944 to  provide education assistance to veterans after World War II. 

The Office of Military Services was founded in 2011 after Connors saw a need for  a designated support office for the military community on campus–one that could assist with navigating college life and applying for federal benefits through the Department of Veterans Affairs. 

“Our goal is to assist military and veteran families from the point of admission through graduation, ensure education benefits work efficiently and smoothly and try to remove barriers that present during the lifecycle of a student,” said Connors, who served 25 years in the Air Force.

While Military Services’ efforts often go unseen by the greater Mason community, Klopfenstein hopes traditional students will begin advocating for veterans on campus. 

“When our nation’s leaders call for military action, they’re making a bet. They’re not betting with their own lives, they’re betting with ours,” he said. “That’s why we need to take special care to elect leaders who have a plan to make tangible improvements to the VA.”

Nylah Mitchell/Fourth Estate

BY NYLAH MITCHELL, COPY EDITOR 

The days of the semester are waning, and reviews for final exams are now making appearances. Though the next chapter means summer, the most dreadful time of the school year has all of us wanting to “bum” through all-nighters in Fenwick Library and Horizon Hall. Eye bags are darker, hands are colored in highlighter, takeout bags are steadily stacking atop each other, and TikTok breaks are getting longer. 

Outfits are the last thing on most student’s minds, but as the saying goes, “if you look good, you feel good.” The goal isn’t to recommend wearing business formal for a chemistry exam but to elevate what you’re already studying in. Putting more effort into your appearance can boost your  confidence and help you rock your exam while feeling relaxed.  

SETS, SETS, SETS. 

The comfiest “easy” outfits that look put-together are sweat sets. Whether it’s a Nike Tech, an Aritzia Sweatfleece, or an Alo Yoga Accolade, these effortless looks can be completed with any shoe. Add simple chain jewelry to create a relaxed vibe while personalizing the outfit. While your mind works to remember every bone of the body, pull the hair back with a baseball cap, a headband or a claw clip. 

Lounge pants and sweater forever

It’s quick and simple to throw on a sweater and sweatpants, but if you have a little more downtime, go for an elevated and classic look–such as loose-knit pants with a T-shirt and sweater. Now, depending on what’s accessible, style the tee peeking through the sweater or switch it up with an unbuttoned cardigan over a graphic tee. The outfit works with any accessories, hairstyles and sneakers or slippers.

Counting the questions in track pants  

Opt for track pants and an oversized sweatshirt for a streetwear look. Besides the baggy silhouette, the sweatshirt comes in handy for the chilly testing rooms. If the room feels too  warm, shed the layer and rock a waist-length slim tee or an oversized t-shirt. Best paired with a baseball cap and chunky dad shoes to complete the street vibe. 

Feeling sporty?

Sitting in Fenwick, when it is very quiet, a high dopamine rush may surge–like when you ace an exam after submitting it. The only way to indulge is to wear a workout set. It may sound superstitious, but slipping into leggings or biker shorts with a half-zip jacket or a long-sleeved top can feel like  good luck. Plus, the outfit easily transitions to a post-final trip to the RAC for a weight-lifting session or to Insomnia Cookies to clear your mind. Add dainty jewelry and a hair accessory for a more elevated and preppy look. Running shoes best complete the look, adding confidence on the go. 

Flamboyant in the testing room 

If you’re still drawn to foldover flare leggings, pair them with a cropped off-shoulder sweater to show off some low-waisted action. You can also layer a thin-strap tank to make the sweater a thicker layer for chilly lecture rooms. The low-effort, stylish outfit can be styled with simple jewelry and UGG Tasman II platforms or Adidas Sambas. 

(Photo courtesy of Jeanne Snyder-Pham)

BY CHRISTIAN SEGOVIA, SPORTS EDITOR 

It’s tough work being Mason’s MasterChef’s Gordon Ramsay, but Jeanne Snyder-Pham makes due while presiding over the GMU Culinary Club. Pham manages the Club alongside majoring in psychology, with a concentration in clinical psychology and minoring in biology. 

From three to four years old, Pham’s mother and grandmother taught her how to move through the kitchen. “They would do hand over hand, like, show me how to mix. They would help me decorate things, like that sort of thing. I started off making pancakes with the mix and stuff, and I got mostly independent in the kitchen.”

Pham studies ingredient ratios when cooking. Pham said that when making burgers or other meat based foods, “you need a certain fat content, you need a certain liquid content, like that kind of thing…[I have] my Baker’s formulas down, like one part liquid to one part fat to one flour.”

When cooking food, Pham focuses on taste more than appearance. “I care a lot about flavor in terms of, like salinity, umami flavors, vinegarines,” Pham said. “For savory dishes, and then, like, for sugar, it’s a matter of just, like, bringing a lot of depth to certain things.” 

Pham said if she had to cook in front of five judges, she would make her mom’s three-day Phở recipe. While it’s a common Vietnamese dish, Pham would incorporate a modern twist and technique to her family’s recipe. 

Pham credits her family for connecting her to their savory dishes and introducing her to Vietnamese cultural recipes. A lot of inspiration comes from her grandma. “She used to own a restaurant, way long ago, and she would apply the same rules that she had in her kitchen, she would apply in ours,” Pham said. “She set me up [with a] love for cooking, and this love for food…She had me thinking about flavor profiles, separating different tastes, and different spices.”

(Photo courtesy of Jeanne Snyder-Pham)

Being co-president of the Culinary Club, Pham’s favorite part is seeing how much the club has grown since taking over. “I started it with $46.32 of baking supplies and a lot of grit and budgeting…I watched the Culinary Club grow from 300 people to 500 people to now, at least 1000 people over different platforms,” Pham said. “It’s opened up, like, a lot of different opportunities, and I’ve gotten to see like I’ve made, like my best friends over here, like I’ve gotten to see like groups grow in skill, in size.” 

Pham believes a good way to connect with food is through culture in the way it transcends its language and history, allowing people to connect with each other in the culinary club.

(Photo courtesy of Jeanne Snyder-Pham)

Outside of the Culinary Club, Pham works as a research assistant, a nail salon receptionist and a substitute teacher. In her free time, she likes to play games, read and volunteer if she has time. “I would like to make cards to send to children, in the hospital or volunteer programs where I speak with elderly patients with dementia and keep them company,” Pham said.

“I founded the Psychology Club at my high school, so I like to volunteer my time with my old AP Psychology teacher. I’ll help her come up with lesson plans, or I would guest speak at these meetings,” Pham said. “I would basically be encouraging students to consider joining psychology outside of being a therapist.” 

Pham would speak on different opportunities; including research, law and political science. “I put them in contact with different people that I met during my time here and give them a head start on what they want to do in the future,” Pham said.

Pham doesn’t regret a single moment of being in psychology. In her field, psychologists are not limited to a career in therapy. Opportunities include becoming a doctor, psychiatrist, and many other career pathways. Pham interned for a senator at Capitol Hill as a psychology major, which helped her understand people and the way the world works.

After graduating in May, Pham will be vacationing in Vietnam in July, indulging in her culture’s delicacies. In the fall, she hopes to apply to doctorate programs in the coming Fall for PHD or PSYD. Above all else, Pham looks to continue cooking for herself, friends, and family as she looks to become a clinical psychologist in the future.

(Courtesy of Justine Arenas)

BY CHRISTIAN SEGOVIA, SPORTS EDITOR 

The world of Justine Arenas is something more than being a senior at Mason majoring in business management information systems. Rather, Arenas is an artist, guitarist and chef all at one. 

Since childhood, Arenas wanted to do everything her parents did, but it was her dad, the family’s creative soul, who immersed her into the wonder of art. “When I was little, my dad and I would have these mini art competitions where we would draw Pokémon and be like, ‘Alright, who did it better?’”Arenas said. “That was him teaching me his skills, and I was just enjoying the hobby [with him] together.” 

Arenas spends her time exploring Pinterest or the Instagram Explore page hoping anything will capture her eye. Once she’s assembled an inventory of ideas and design inspiration, then she gets to work. 

During COVID-19, Arenas often visited Goodwill and other thrift stores with her sister and friends to find pairs of jeans for painting projects  to express her art through fashion. Additionally, she loves self-styling and modeling for themed-photoshoots with her friends. 

(Courtesy of Justine Arenas)

In addition to thrifting and photo shoots, Arenas said she plays the acoustic guitar to learn basic chords at home, going on Ultimate Guitar to memorize chord fingers. During Night Market, Arenas played for Viloria and msgloria as a bassist. One of the challenging parts for Arenas was singing and playing bass at the same time.

“Individually, I feel like I’m pretty, like, decent at both, but putting it together, you have the one rhythm of the bass guitar, and still trying to stay in tune,” Arenas said. “Also, trying to sing the specific melody, it’s hard to clash that together without messing up one or the other.”

What got Arenas into music was her eighth-grade jazz band class, where Arenas learned to solo play “Moanin’” by Charles Mingus. Arenas said Hysteria by Muse is a favorite that she loved learning due to its fast and repetitive nature. Arenas music influences arrive from the legendary Stevie Wonder and two-man group Silk Sonic when playing jazz, funk, R&B, and rock.

(Photo courtesy Arenas’ Family)

Arenas fell in love with food because of the opportunity to taste new foods and cook dishes spiced to her specific liking. Another reason Arenas grew attachment to cooking was due to the Nintendo DS game,  Cooking Mama.

When constructing dishes, Arenas tends to strive for a perfect balance between taste and plating. “I just try to be like a very creative person through art and everything, I feel like it has to translate in my cooking too, because not only are you looking for food that tastes good, you first see it and smell it,” Arenna said. “If it looks kind of not so good, but it tastes really good, you might not be as inclined to eat it. So just making sure, it’s a very beautiful plate.”

Arenas serves as vice president of the GMU Culinary Club, which gathers to host inclusive cooking workshops and discuss cultural dishes. 

“I think food is a very easy way to teach people about different cultures because for everyone, food is the soul or heart of the culture that they love,” Arenas said. “A lot of parties [and] festivities always involve food. So, [it’s about] trying to get people’s toes into different cultures that they might not be aware of, or not as knowledgeable about. I feel like food is an easy way to do that.”

After graduating, Arenas is looking forward to little jam sessions with friends as they prepare to perform at local gigs. But, she is most excited to have an empty course load so that she can finally go back to doing art with her friend Carmella and posting on their art account.

“I do like the prints or the digital art, and she does like little trinkets and jewelry making,” Arenas said when talking about the joint art account. “I’m excited to finish up all my work in progress, make new stuff, and then potentially get more serious about a little art business stuff.”  

Arenas’ creative journey continues through weekly meetings with her band and cooking with the culinary club every other Friday.

(Courtesy of Aniya Coffey)

Hundreds of miles away from Mason, in the Big Apple, a Mason student’s fashion work was featured on a billboard in Times Square on April 14. Ferocity, a fashion brand “all about being fierce in what you wear,” partnered with CB Modeling Associates (CBMA) and Supermodels Unlimited to showcase the student’s designs on models advertising the agency and magazine.  

Freshman Aniya Coffey, the founder of Ferocity, has built an extensive fashion portfolio in just her first year at Mason. Coffey studies economics at Mason and explained that “majoring in economics would be the best way to continue to develop my brand philosophy as well as my nonprofit organization.” 

Blisx DC, the nonprofit Coffey founded, aims to educate underrepresented communities in Washington D.C., about the fashion industry. “It started off with lessons of teaching students how to sew stitch designs and make their own clothes… [Next thing,] I’m blowing up to be hosting modeling workshops, working with students, showing them how to use a camera.” 

Blisx DC recently held a panel and workshop where attendees learned about the history and significance of ballroom culture, including voguing and the “kiki.” 

If asked how she’s spent her first year at Mason, Coffey might say that she co-created a student organization. The Garment District, a registered student organization (RSO), is “creating [a] space where fashion designers or people interested in fashion design can come and learn things of the fashion industry,” she said. 

“The biggest thing was seeing that there were no spaces for people directly in fashion design,” Coffey said as an explanation for starting the Garment District. “[It] can also be like a liaison between all groups… You can allow the Garment District or designers within our group to make clothes for you because one it’s cheaper and then, we’re promoting sustainable fashion because ordering off of websites like Shein, it’s not good for the environment, overall.” 

(Courtesy of Aniya Coffey)

And it doesn’t stop there. Alongside her nonprofit and  fashion line Coffey is also branching into celebrity styling. One of her most notable clients is Nick Dorka, a former William & Mary footballer player and reality TV personality from Netflix’s Love Is Blind Season 7, which was set in D.C. 

Coffey described the experience as a “blessing” because she got “to know more about him to… elevate his style, to make sure that he’s comfortable with what he’s wearing as well as trying new things.” 

When asked about her styling process, Coffey said, “It’s pretty much more of matching [the client’s] energy because when I style, I like to meet the person first or do extensive research on [them].” Coffey further explained, “My thing, going into styling, is to make sure that people are exploring the different opportunities, the ways that they can dress, [and] taking critiques and things they may want to wear, as well as overall enjoying the experience.” 

Behind all her work, Coffey said that she draws inspiration from the eclectic style of musician and TikTok fashion influencer Aliyah’s Interlude. “Seeing the way she dresses, it made her stand out [as] confident. She was bold. I was like, yep, a lot of my personal inspiration… really does come from her.” 

When Coffey is in the creative spirit, she’ll spend hours at The Mix designing pieces with reusable clothing. “I’m really big on sustainable fashion, reusable clothing. That’s how I got started with fashion design,” Coffey said. “One of my more notable pieces is the tie tops that I made. I’m not the person willing to go rifling for myself, but I will go thrifting for other people and then make those alterations.”  

Coffey’s accomplishments and creative works have caused her to start thinking about her post-graduation ambitions. “I want to go into consulting because it was something that I enjoyed doing [back in high school,]” she said. “I [want to] expand [Blisx DC] because it’s just been D.C., Maryland, and Virginia, for now, but there are hundreds of cities that need such programs.” 

The billboard in Times Square is only the start. Reflecting on her accomplishments, Coffey said her main point takeaway is to “be bold with who you are. If you know you are a fashionista, go outside and be a fashionista like no one’s stopping you.”