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Cheyenne DeGross finding her new love of pickleball 

Latest Fourth Estate Articles - Wed, 26/03/2025 - 2:56pm

Cheyenne DeGross/Fourth Estate

How pickleball reignited this Mason student’s love for the university

BY BENJAMIN SPITLER, STAFF WRITER 

“I think that’s one of the hardest decisions I’ve had to make in my life… giving up the sport I love.” For many, the college experience brings both the highest and lowest moments of our young lives. 

This sentiment especially resonates with Cheyenne DeGross, a junior at George Mason University, majoring in communications with minors in sports journalism, criminology, and law and society. Cheyenne’s journey—from a collegiate softball player to a pickleball enthusiast—is a story of resilience and reinvention.

Navigating college recruitment during and after the COVID-19 pandemic was challenging for Cheyenne. As a standout softball player, she considered offers from East Stroudsburg University, a small school in Pennsylvania, and George Mason. 

After much deliberation, she chose Mason, drawn by the coaching staff’s encouragement and the university’s proximity to Washington, D.C. It seemed like the perfect combination of academics and athletics.

In her freshman year, Cheyenne contributed to Mason softball’s historic season, one filled with memorable achievements. The team broke the school’s all-time steals record, clinched the A-10 conference championship, and advanced to the NCAA tournament, where they competed against powerhouse programs like Duke and Campbell. For many, this would have been a dream season, but Cheyenne faced a very different reality.

“I felt like an odd man out,” she reflected. “I wasn’t treated fairly, never got a chance, and didn’t have the confidence instilled in me like I saw in many of my other teammates.” For an athlete accustomed to being a vital part of her team, the experience was disheartening. The lack of support and the mental toll it took began to overshadow her love for the sport.

By the spring of her sophomore year, Cheyenne made the difficult decision to leave the team and enter the transfer portal, a process that allows athletes to explore opportunities at other schools. This bittersweet step reflected her enduring love for softball and the hope of finding a program where she could thrive.

Amid the uncertainty, Cheyenne discovered a new outlet: pickleball. She was introduced to the sport by a friend she met while taking an Italian culture course when she studied abroad in Italy. 

What began as a casual activity quickly evolved into a new passion. Encouraged by her friend, Cheyenne began visiting the Mason pickleball courts and soon joined the university’s pickleball club.

The club became more than just a recreational space; it offered a sense of belonging that Cheyenne had been missing. “Pickleball helped me feel like I had a purpose again,” she said. 

The sport allowed her to connect with others, challenge herself and rebuild her confidence. For the first time in a long while, she felt truly supported and accepted by her peers.

The positive environment of the pickleball community led Cheyenne to reevaluate her plans. Although she had entered the transfer portal with the hope of continuing her softball career elsewhere, her experiences at the pickleball club gave her a new perspective. Staying at George Mason no longer felt like settling but instead seemed like the right choice for her growth and happiness.

Ultimately, Cheyenne removed her name from the transfer portal, deciding to remain at Mason and leave softball behind. It was not an easy choice, but it allowed her to focus on her newfound passion and the friendships she had built. This turning point marked the start of a new chapter, one where she could prioritize her well-being and redefine her college experience.

Cheyenne’s story is a familiar one for many college students who enter university with a clear vision for their future, only to find life taking unexpected turns. For Cheyenne, stepping away from softball was a painful decision, but embracing new opportunities allowed her to rediscover her passion and sense of belonging. 

Her journey reminds us that the path to finding ourselves is often not the one we plan, but the one we truly need. Reflecting on her experience, Cheyenne shared, “There’s always hope, and sometimes you have to take a different path than you initially wanted.”

Cherry blossoms are blooming, here’s what to wear to the festivals

Latest Fourth Estate Articles - Wed, 26/03/2025 - 2:51pm

Nylah Mitchell/Fourth Estate


The pink flower trees are making their annual appearance this week. Copy editor, Nylah, shares some easy styles for the fun festivities all over the District

BY NYLAH MITCHELL, COPY EDITOR 

The most coveted time of the year in the Washington, Maryland, and Virginia area is here. Sakura—commonly known as cherry blossom—season has finally arrived, painting the forestry across the District blush pink. With the flower trees approaching peak bloom in a couple of days, the Cherry Blossom Festival kicked off this past Thursday to welcome the new season. Loads of festivities throughout the metropolitan area are lined up to keep the momentum going all month long. 

Here are seven blooming styles for when the cherry blossoms do: 

Pastel cardigan and jeans 

This is one of the easiest and most classic outfits to put together. There are hundreds of ways to style a cardigan and jeans, but for the festival season, lean into the trending color of the season for the ultimate spring cherry blossom look: butter yellow. The outfit could be styled with light or dark-wash jeans. Top off the look with shoes such as Birkenstock Boston clogs, Adidas Sambas, Vejas, or Doc Martens. 

Canadian tuxedo 

The denim-on-denim look has been everywhere in recent months. Examples include Kendrick Lamar at the 2025 Grammys and Beyoncé in her new collaboration with Levi’s. Styling options include a pastel long-sleeve shirt with a denim top unbuttoned; a buttoned denim jacket with a thin sweater thrown over the shoulders; or a tee underneath with the top two buttons unclasped for a more casual look. Finish the tux with Doc Martens, cowboy boots, or loafers. 

Knit sweater and white skirt 

The white skirt has been a staple since last spring and it’s not going away anytime soon. For the festival, balance the windy weather with an oversized knit sweater and a long white skirt. Styling options include loosely tucking the front half or one side of the sweater into the skirt. For maxi skirts, roll the waist for a midi-length look to show off any footwear. Accessorize with dramatic jewelry sitting on top of the sweater, such as bracelet cuffs on sweater-covered wrists. Footwear options such as heeled or calf-riding boots and ballet flats add a final touch to  the outfit. 

Baggy cardigan, white tee, baggy jeans 

For a quick yet essential outfit, the three-piece look will add a masculine undertone. While the cardigan can be worn unbuttoned, try buttoning it with the tee pulled down below the hip enough to peek from under the cardigan. Or, leave the cardigan unbuttoned and semi-tuck the tee into jeans so that the belt peeks through. Complete the fit with flat sneakers like Adidas Sambas or Gazelles, high-top Converses, Birkenstock Boston clogs, or chunky Chelsea boots. 

Cable-knit sweater and mini skirt 

The weather is warming up, but the wind chills are still present. The best kind of sweater I recommend is a vintage cable-knit, preferably found at a local thrift store, that hits the waist. The quality is long-lasting and sits proportionally balanced with the skirt. Style and accessorize the outfit with oval sunglasses, tights, an oversized denim jacket, or a brown leather jacket. The look is best paired with the 8053 Leather Doc Martens, Adidas Sambas, heeled, calf-riding, or cowboy boots. 

Barrel jeans and slim-fit long-sleeve tee

Though the style of the jeans may seem ‘odd’ to some, they grow on a person after a while. The tee’s fit adds a leaner silhouette, while the barrel jeans add a curved flair. Accessorize with a thick or color-pop belt. Not into slim fit and want something thicker? Go for a turtle neck or a fuzzy sweater. Try a dark-colored baggy sweater with a white tee. Finish it off with chunky Chelsea boots, loafers, or dad shoes like New Balance 990s, Salomon XT6s, and Nike Air VaporMax. 

Ruffle top and jeans 

What’s really trending this season? Bohemian style—everything chiffon, frill, fringe, floral. It’s perfect to match the floral and beauty aesthetic of the cherry blossoms. With baggy “dad” jeans, fold the seams up and style them with any kind of ruffle blouse. Not feeling the pants? Go for a maxi skirt instead. Too cold for sleeveless? Add a cardigan, buttoned in the middle to still show off the ruffles, and a suede or denim jacket with folded-seam jeans. Sweeten the look with low-inch kitten heels, Mary Janes, or calf-riding boots. 

To know about all the upcoming events, visit DC Cherry Blossom Festivals. For peak bloom status, check the National Park Service’s predictions. Want to know the best spots for viewing and pictures? WUSA9 has the answers. 

George Mason shines at the 2025 Atlantic 10 Championship

Latest Fourth Estate Articles - Wed, 26/03/2025 - 2:48pm

Emma Schaible/Fourth Estate

Men’s and women’s swimming and track teams break records, and women’s track and field wins first title since 2014

BY JASON RAGUSA, STAFF WRITER

The George Mason men’s and women’s swimming teams set four new team records and one conference record at the Atlantic 10 Championship at the Hampton Aquaplex in Hampton, Va, while the women’s indoor track and field team earned its first conference title since 2014. 

Men’s Swimming 

The men’s team secured victory in the 800-yard freestyle relay, clocking in at 6:24.73, marking a team and conference record. The relay team included senior Zane Roberts, junior Tate Anderson, sophomores Alex Crown and Cody Scifres, winning the event by nearly two seconds. Anderson also set a team record with his leadoff performance, setting the tone for the rest of the team. He finished his junior campaign with 11 first-place finishes and six second-place finishes. In the 200-yard medley relay — a race where each swimmer uses a different stroke in a strategic order— the squad consisted of graduate student Kyle Johnson, seniors Tyler Lentine and Zane Roberts, and sophomore Ian Rodgers . The team finished in second place, establishing a new team record with a time of 1:26.43. The athletes’ efforts not only broke records but also demonstrated their commitment to excellence, positioning the team for continued success at Mason.

Women’s Swimming 

The women’s team set a new team record in the 800-yard freestyle relay, finishing with a time of 7:17.67. Seniors Ali Tyler, Sydney Atkins, Emma DeJong and sophomore Kristen Ivey secured fourth place.
Tyler claimed the gold medal for the second year in a row with a time of 48.62. She also earned three individual titles and set new conference and team records in the 100-yard freestyle, 200-yard individual medley, and 100-yard backstroke. Tyler was awarded the Most Outstanding Swimmer at the A-10 championship. She also played a key role in helping the Patriots win two relay medals: gold in the 400-yard medley relay and silver in the 400-yard freestyle relay.

Men’s Indoor Track and Field

The men’s indoor track and field team finished in second place at the championship, behind Rhode Island, which came in first for the fifth consecutive year. However, the Patriots took the top three spots in the men’s 60-meter hurdles, with graduate student Joshua Sutton earning gold, junior Albert Asare securing silver and freshman Davian Burke winning bronze.

Senior Paul McClain won gold in the 500m race.The men’s 4×400-meter relay team – composed of Mason Samuels, Lance Koontz, Max Karen and Jordan Tuck — secured a gold medal for the Patriots. Sophomore Abdurrazzaq Hassan earned bronze in the heptathlon. With the success of Mason’s track and field team, Head Coach Andrew Gerard and his staff were recognized as the Atlantic 10 Coaching Staff of the Year.

Women’s Indoor Track and Field 

The women’s indoor track and field team was crowned A-10 Champions for the first time since 2014. As the championship came to a close, the 4×400-meter relay became the decisive event. George Mason held a 2.5-point lead over VCU and needed to maintain or extend that margin to secure the title. The relay team of Chairley Bido, Simone Hamlar, Helena Santacana and Ay’rianna Moore clinched the victory for the Patriots. 

In addition to winning the conference championship, senior Abby Weening won gold in the high jump, contributing to Mason’s lead over VCU. She was named the Most Outstanding Field Performer for her achievements in both the pentathlon and high jump. These achievements marked a significant milestone for the team, as they not only secured the championship but also set the stage for future competition in the Atlantic 10 Conference.

Student government shuffle

Latest Fourth Estate Articles - Wed, 26/03/2025 - 2:35pm

Emma Schaible/Fourth Estate

A motion by Student Life to restructure student government to help with student involvement. 

BY BARRETT BALZER, NEWS EDITOR

On March 23, Mason’s Student Government confirmed a structural rework, detailing a new government consisting of one representative body and apportioned academic college seats, to  “strengthen the impact of our work” according to the Instagram announcement, which stresses a unified voice as a major part of the new government.

The new structure would merge the Executive Cabinet and Student Senate to become the Undergraduate Representative Body. It will see a total of 50 seats: 20 academic college seats (two per college) and 30 ‘at-large seats.’ According to the announcement, “Committee chair and liaisons are appointed out of the membership of the representative body.” 

Elected positions in the restructurings are the undergraduate student body president and executive vice president. Both positions are elected by the undergraduate student body population. 

Appointed positions are the Vice President for Outreach, the Vice President for Marketing and the Vice President for Membership Development and Training, selected by the Student Body President and Executive Vice president. 

The structure of Mason’s Student Government has not been evaluated since 2007, according to a listening session hosted by University Life.

In the fall of 2022, Dean of Students Juliet Blank Godlove worked to understand why most students at Mason were not engaging with the Student Government. The question led to the creation of a working group consisting of eight students to begin the process of restructuring the student government. 

The goal of the restructuring, as stated in a listening session, was “recognizing the decline in student engagement with SG (Student Government) is the changing demographics of students attending the university.”

The stated goals of the restructuring have been proposed to “increase clarity, engagement, and efficiency within the organization.”

The current student body structure consists of three sections. The Executive Cabinet: a student body president, vice president and chief of staff. The Student Senate: lead roles include speaker, speaker pro-tempore and clerk. Finally, the Elections and Disputes Commission consists of a chair and nine commissioners. 

The bones, according to Senator Andrey Arcidiacono, a member of the 45th Student Senate and chair of the Student Senate Committee on the Research and Restructure of Student Government, are “academic senators[two per college], residential senators, off-campus senators, at large senators and a student body president.”

Due to low involvement with Mason’s student body, two structures were proposed. The first, chosen by the Student Government, would switch from the current three-section system and become one sole body. An elected president would oversee the Senate, with multiple vice presidents and the committees staying the same. The Student Senate would be renamed to the “Undergraduate Representative Body,” as the ten academic colleges would each have two elected representatives, with 30 at-large representatives also being elected.

The second proposed structure would see multiple branches or bodies, including an executive branch and a senate branch. It also would eliminate overlapping roles between both branches. 

Feedback given on the potential restructuring also involved a potential name change, and said, “Consider renaming SG to reflect its advocacy rather than governance. This aligns with the sentiment that SG should focus on community engagement and advocacy.”

One student government member further explained, “We should change our name to Student Advocacy Network. We don’t govern anyone. We advocate for students. The name Student Government is a false name or facade because it’s not what we do.”

Patriots’ extraordinary season comes to an end

Latest Fourth Estate Articles - Wed, 26/03/2025 - 2:22pm

Mitchell Richtmyre/Fourth Estate

Despite a second-half surge, the Patriots fell to the Bradley Braves in the second round of the NIT

BY BRIAN A. HAYUM, STAFF WRITER

On Saturday, March 22, the Men’s basketball team lost in the second round of the NIT to the Bradley Braves, 75-67. The game marked the team’s second home loss of the season.

In their fifth game in eight days, the Patriots took an early 14-9 lead at the 9:35 mark of the first half—ultimately their largest lead of the game. The Braves, who held a 17-3 record when making at least 40% of their three-point attempts, found their rhythm from beyond the arc in the first half and entered halftime with a nine-point advantage.

Bradley continued their hot shooting in the second half, opening with an 18-9 run and hitting four of their first five second-half three-pointers to extend their lead to 18—their largest lead of the night. The Patriots would’ve made an 11-0 run to cut the deficit down to single digits, but pivotal moments, including a circus shot by Braves guard Christian Davis, prevented the Patriots from seizing the momentum and taking the lead. Ultimately, an eight-point Braves lead with 1:30 remaining proved too much to overcome.

In their final game as Patriots, senior guards Darius Maddox and K.D. Johnson led the team with 15 and 16 points, respectively. Defensively, senior guard Jared Billups provided a second-half spark with a game-high four steals.

 “I just wanted it bad for our seniors,” Head Coach Tony Skinn said. “I saw life but whether it was Jalen [Haynes] two missed lay-ups or the shot that this kid [Davis] made from 37 feet, you kind of know in the back of your head that you’re not getting the win.”

 Despite the loss, the Patriots’ success this season has set a high standard for future expectations. “We put up a banner this year,” Billups said. “That’s the goal every year.” Maddox echoed that sentiment: “If you want to be in an environment where you’re getting better, you’re winning, and a coaching staff that can really relate to you, I feel like Mason is a great place to do that.” 

“George Mason is a basketball school,” Skinn added. “I branded this ‘Team 59’ for a reason and so they’ve laid that foundation.” 

With the foundation set, next year’s group of players will have the opportunity to build on this historic season and turn success into the new standard for Patriots basketball.

Exploring Toria Jewelry with Victoria Demario

Latest Fourth Estate Articles - Wed, 26/03/2025 - 2:01am

Sarena Marrisa Sohan/Fourth Estate

An inside look into a Mason student’s jewelry business 

BY SARENA MARRISA SOHAN, STAFF WRITER

Styled with Toria Jewelry, junior Victoria “Tori” Demario met me at the Johnson Center to share more about her jewelry business. Demario, a self-taught jeweler and TikTok content creator,  began making jewelry at the end of 2022 and opened her website in March 2023. 

It all began during quarantine. In her free time, Demario used resin to make ashtrays and coasters. But after some time, she discovered a new craft she wanted to try: jewelry. 

“I saw people doing the type of jewelry I wanted to do on Instagram… I put it off for a while because it was going to cost a lot of money to start, but then eventually, I was like I need to do that. I just knew that once I did it, I was going to like it,” said Demario. 

Demario knew she wanted to sell her jewelry from the very beginning, but waited until she learned a lot more. “It definitely took a long period to perfect everything and build my website, take pictures, [and] really have everything set on the business side before I started selling,” said Demario. 

She describes her style of jewelry as “dainty”. She also loves pearls. “Something I’m more into now is mixed metals, so I like to do gold and silver together. ‘Why choose?’ is what I like to say,” said Demario.

Toria Jewelry uses gold-filled and sterling silver material. Demario emphasized many people are unfamiliar with the details of gold-filled jewelry. “There’s solid gold and then right under solid gold would be gold-filled. At least five percent of its weight has to be real gold, and it’s bonded over a base metal, usually brass. But it’s much different than gold-plated. Gold-plated is just a thin layer [of gold] over another base metal,” said Demario. 

“If I were to use gold-plated material it would be much cheaper, but I’d be selling things that people couldn’t wear swimming or in the shower. It would probably turn them green or people would start having allergic reactions and I just didn’t want to do that. I didn’t want to sell lower quality things that people couldn’t keep,” said Demario.

Demario’s favorite Toria Jewelry piece is the Casey Necklace. “I think it’s just a perfect everyday necklace,” she said after expressing that the inspiration comes from her dog, Casey.  Not every jewelry name has a backstory, but she likes the names “to come from somewhere”. 

“An obstacle is that it’s expensive and so I can’t really keep inventory. It’s hard to design things and then put them on my website because my suppliers are always kind of changing. So there are some things on my website that if someone were to order and I would need to go get the supplies in it, they would be gone.” Demario discussed the challenges of running her jewelry business. “And that’s hard because I can’t just make things, have inventory, and then sell them. I make things, list them, and then hope that all the pieces are there when I need to buy them.” 

“Persistence” is a key skill Demario developed through her business and it has helped her in other areas of her life. “It has been over two years of me doing this and it’s very slow. It’s gonna take awhile and it’s a good reminder that not everything is just immediate.”

When asked how she persists on days she feels less motivated or less creative, she said, “Making things is always fun… I don’t always want to work on my website or pictures, marketing, or TikTok, but I always want to make something. If I don’t feel like doing any of the more productive things I’ll just do some wire wrapping or soldering and enjoy that.

”Those interested in Toria Jewelry should connect with Demario through the Toria Jewelry website or TikTok.

Crafting confidence: How The MIX empowers beginners with sewing skills

Latest Fourth Estate Articles - Wed, 26/03/2025 - 1:33am

Photo Credit: Mason Innovation Exchange

Sew, let’s begin! Introduction to sewing at The MIX

BY GABRIELLE PAMOR, STAFF WRITER 

The MIX, George Mason’s cutting-edge Makerspace, provides a dynamic and collaborative environment for students to explore various creative disciplines. One of its most popular offerings is the Introduction to Sewing Workshop, held weekly near the MIX’s Sewing and Textiles Station. The workshop provides beginners with the tools and skills necessary to operate a sewing machine by crafting a functional and personalized drawstring bag.

Located within the MIX, the Sewing and Textiles Station is a well-equipped space designed to foster creativity and hands-on learning. The station features workstations dedicated to textile arts such as embroidery, vinyl cutting, heat pressing and sublimation printing. 

The Station also serves as a hub for students to explore the intersection of traditional craftsmanship and modern technology. With its diverse range of tools and equipment, the station encourages students to experiment with new techniques and create unique textile-based projects. Whether it’s incorporating custom designs into garments or experimenting with innovative fabric manipulation, the station provides an ideal setting for both beginners and seasoned creators. The integration of digital tools with hands-on practices enables students to bring their ideas to life in ways that blend artistic expression with cutting-edge fabrication methods.With individual tables and specialized equipment, users can dive into diverse projects ranging from designing custom fabrics to creating intricate embroidery patterns. The station is stocked with a wide range of sewing tools such as needles, scissors and thread, as well as an assortment of scrap fabric and materials. 

The Introduction to Sewing Workshop lasts about an hour and offers a beginner-friendly approach to using the sewing machines. Participants receive guided instructions on machine operation, including threading the needle, adjusting stitch settings and understanding machine mechanics. Additionally, the workshop covers how needle size affects stitching  quality. Choosing a needle that’s too large for a delicate fabric can result in unsightly holes or fabric snags, while using a needle that’s too small for a heavier material can cause uneven stitches and unnecessary strain on the machine. This knowledge empowers participants to make informed choices, ensuring professional-level results. 

Instructors, identified by their blue aprons, provide hands-on demonstrations to ensure that everyone feels comfortable using the sewing machines. Participants then apply their new skills by creating their own drawstring bags—a practical project that reinforces fundamentals sewing techniques.

Photo Credit: Mason Innovation Exchange

At the end of the workshop, participants can scan their Mason IDs at the door to earn a digital badge, signifying their ability to use the sewing machines independently for future projects. 

Beyond sewing, The MIX offers a variety of creative opportunities such as 3D printing, laser cutting, digital design and automated embroidery. 

The makerspace provides a collaborative environment where students can develop both their creative and technical skills. It features advanced equipment for product design and development, allowing students to experiment with everything from concept sketches to functional prototypes. The MIX also encourages interdisciplinary projects such as blending digital media with physical creations. Students benefit from mentorship opportunities, connecting with experienced professionals and peers to refine their ideas and gain valuable insights into the process of innovation. Whether working on a solo project or collaborating with others, the Makerspace influences an inspiring environment for growth and experimentation.

Whether you’re interested in creating physical prototypes, experimenting with digital media, or working with textiles, the MIX provides a welcoming, collaborative space for students to learn, create, and share ideas.With its diverse range of equipment, supportive instructors, and a thriving creative community, the MIX is a valuable resource for Mason students looking to expand their skills and explore new forms of creativity. Students can sign up for the Introduction to Sewing Workshop through Mason 360, the university’s platform for accessing events and workshops. Registering in advance ensures a spot in this popular session and allows students to plan their creative experience at The MIX.

Five ways to blossom your spring wardrobe

Latest Fourth Estate Articles - Wed, 26/03/2025 - 1:09am

Nylah Mitchell/Fourth Estate

Copy editor, Nylah, shares a few ways to dress in time for the best season of the year 

BY NYLAH MITCHELL, COPY EDITOR 

Gone are the days of snow, ice and frost. Here enter the days of blooming flowers, sunshine and rain. With the arrival of the vernal equinox comes cherry blossoms and pastel colors. As temperatures rise on campus, students will be studying and snacking outside on the Mason Pond Lawn, Wilkin plaza, the quads and more. It only makes sense to want to dress fashionably for the new season. Here are some stylish ways to refresh your wardrobe and embrace spring.

Jewelry, jewelry, and more jewelry 

Yes, Coco Chanel once said, “Before you leave the house, look in the mirror and take one thing off.” However, here me out—one of the best ways to upscale any outfit is by layering jewelry. If you’re into permanent jewelry, a jade bangle is a cultural yet chic addition to your stack. Or, Italian charm bracelets are perfect as you count down the days until summer. 

Dainty and funky earrings are a small yet impactful touch to accessorize for the warming season. Fruit and flower-themed earrings add a dash of playfulness to your outfit when spending more time outside. Feeling something more refined? Pearls are a timeless choice—they aren’t just for evening wear or LinkedIn headshots. Pearl drop earrings and spaced pearl necklaces bring an elegant vibe to any outfit. 

Where to shop: Etsy, Amazon, flea markets, secondhand shops and any other local boutiques. 

Baseball caps 

Baseball season is here! Whether you’re a Yankees, Nationals, or another team’s fan, the key to styling your cap is personalization. Start small by pairing your baseball or dad cap with a silk scarf for an elevated street-style look. 

For a vintage, distressed vibe, use scissors, a seam ripper or sandpaper along the edges to create an out of the ‘90s look. Feeling artsy? Add custom sketch figures and doodles with Sharpies on or around the logo for a more cartoonish touch. (Tip: go for an old cap first or sketch using pencils, if not confident in your drawing skills.) Feeling more creative and crafty? Bring out patches, threads and needles for a more unique and eccentric cap. Stitch your initials, your favorite player’s number or your lucky number on the side to add a personal flair.

 Where to shop: Any sportswear store or a gift shop. 

Unique color sneakers 

A new season calls for new sneakers! Dad shoes are forever trending; they offer comfort and pair perfectly with a streetwear look. The Salomons XT-6,  add a sporty yet stylish flare to your outfit, while the Salomon X Sandy Liang XT-Whisper in color ‘Fairy Tale’ and the Salomon XT-6 in Mahogany Rose and Earth Brown sneakers are a dream pick for those who love pastel hues. 

Adidas Sambas are timeless, but if you want a twist, consider the long tongue style or opt for a less common color. Perhaps one not already in your closet. For those seeking alternatives to Sambas, the silver metallic Adidas Taekwondo and the Adidas Japan in any color are unique alternatives to what everyone is wearing. Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66 and the Onitsuka Tiger Serrano are also great alternatives to Adidas Sambas and its variants. I am a fan of the metallic Crystal Pink Mexico 66 and the Mako Blue and Cream Serrano because they exude a fun, fresh and sporty spring look. 

Where to shop: Online sneaker retailers, Adidas, Onitsuka Tiger, and secondhand marketplaces. 

Light jackets 

It’s the season of wind, rain and sun. A light jacket that’s stylish and comfy is an absolute must for the weather. Quilted jackets have been ‘in’ for a while but why not spice it up with some floral or paisley patterns? Shop at: Free People, ASOS, Zara and Etsy.

Long coats are a classic and stylish way to elevate any campus outfit. I’m talking unbuttoned khaki trench coats, gingham trench coats and long quilted jackets. Shop at: Online secondhand shops (ThredUp, Poshmark, Depop, eBay, TheRealReal), Sézane and Damson Madder

Light knits 

It’s getting warmer, but it’s also the perfect time for a chilly wind to cut through or ruin a spring outfit. A good cashmere or cotton knitted sweater will have you set for the group study picnics and cold lecture rooms. To match the season’s aesthetic, go for a colorful striped or embroidered sweater and pair them with light blue jeans. 

Want something different? Try boatneck and asymmetrical sweaters styled with a white tee peeking around the collar for a more effortless look. 

Where to shop: ASOS, J. Crew, Zara and T.J. Maxx 

Spring is the perfect time to refresh your wardrobe, and with spring sales, it’s a great opportunity to explore new styles and update your look. Whether you’re accessorizing with bold jewelry, sporting unique sneakers, or layering light knits, there are countless ways to dress to impress.