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Articles by Brooke Lathe
Is an On Campus Spring Concert Better For Students?
FUSA is making history on Friday, April 19 as our annual spring concert is set to take place in Leo D. Mahoney Arena for the first time since its major renovation. 2 Chainz featuring Kaliii will headline the night while student artists, Stingray and DJ Tristan, open. I’m known for not loving change, so when I found out the concert would no longer be held at the Hartford Amphitheater in Bridgeport like the past two years, I was partly saddened.
Superb Sweet Treats: Best Places in Fairfield
I always need my daily sweet treat—it’s a blessing I inherited from my grandmother. Luckily, Post Road is the place to roam when you’re craving post-dinner sugar and I have become the expert on which spots to seek first. Bonkers Cupcakes One of my favorite Fairfield spots my mother and I run to for any celebration will always be Bonkers Cupcakes. This family-owned business bakes fresh cupcakes daily and you can taste it with every bite.
Age Limits For Presidential Candidates
There are eight months until the next presidential election, but our top two front runners for candidacy is a match-up no American wants to go through again. Despite all of the differing opinions and arguments about politics throughout the past few years, I think it’s clear that voters across the nation don’t want our choice to be between two men over a decade past the standard retirement age. President Joe Biden is currently 81 and the oldest person to hold office in American history.
Beyond The Sand: Dune 2 Movie Review
Denis Villeneuve has done it again. Making its theater debut on March 1, “Dune: Part Two” not only gave audiences an exhilarating 2.5-hour-long performance but also set the tone for our upcoming generational stars. Alongside veteran Dune performers, Timothee Chalamet (Paul Atreides) and Zendaya (Chani), iconic names such as Florence Pugh, Austin Butler and Anya Taylor Joy joined the sci-fi franchise and their deliveries were nothing short of perfection.
Artist We Are Mad About For The Red Sea!
The annual Fairfield University Student Association’s (FUSA) Spring Concert is always one of my most anticipated events each year. Between finding out who we’ve booked and actually getting to sing throwbacks with my friends, I find it to be the perfect night out. I honestly don’t think anything can top Flo Rida’s appearance in 2022, but in a perfect world where FUSA had unlimited funds to hire whoever, these artists would be my top picks for Fairfield’s 2024 Spring Concert headliner.
Spring Break Plans Unveiled: Students Share Their Exciting Escapade
When Andy Williams said it’s the most wonderful time of the year during Christmas, college kids around the world broke out in tears. Because, obviously, spring break is! Whether it’s travel plans or just a simple breather from the middle of the semester, Stags are booked and busy for the first week of March. Some Stags like Kayla Smith ‘25 are getting a head start on their senior capstone.
Spring Break On Campus?
Spring break is usually a wonderful opportunity for students and professors to take a much-needed break amidst a chaotic semester. Most use the week for extravagant vacations or just time to breathe.
2023 In The Books: Best Reads Of The Year
Every year I make a strong attempt at sticking through with my New Year’s resolutions, but I always fizzle out six months in. Surprisingly, however, 2023 was the year of following through! As a literature fanatic, I noticed how I put a lot of emphasis on writing in the past three years of undergrad rather than making time for pleasure reading. Due to this, I wanted to set a goal of getting back on the saddle and reading 50 books—a number that seemed daunting at first.
“The Ballad of Songbirds And Snakes” Film Review: A Haunting Prequel To “The Hunger Games”
As someone who was once obsessed with “The Hunger Games” trilogy back in 2012, I was beyond thrilled to learn about the film adaptation of “The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes”. Due to this, I was proudly in attendance at the AMC theater on its opening night with a large bucket of popcorn in hand and a cheesy smile on my face. Suzanne Collins originally published the series’ prequel in 2020, sharing President Snow’s origin story starting at the tenth Hunger Games.
Trader Joe’s DIY Flatbread Pizza: A Bop Or A Flop?
I’m always looking for new meals that are quick, easy and tasty; which is why when I saw a Trader Joe’s flatbread pizza recipe trending, I knew I had to try it. The dinner calls for a multitude of ingredients, but it’s enough to make four fulfilling servings and leaves some leftovers to make other meals out of.
The Presley’s Take The Screen With “Priscilla”
It seems to be the year of the Presleys. In 2022, the film world was buzzing after the release of “Elvis” starring Austin Butler and Tom Hanks as the feature led to countless nominations and wins from the Academy Awards, Golden Globes and other critically acclaimed competitions. This past month, however, Butler’s stardom has been pushed to the side as the new story of “Priscilla” debuted in theaters.
Women’s Basketball Crusades to Victory in Season-Opener Against Lehman
As crowds of people herded into the Leo D. Mahoney Arena awaiting the Fairfield women’s first home game, no one could’ve expected just how strong the lady stags would start off their 2023-2024 season. In front of the 976 fans in attendance, the women’s team decimated their opponents from Lehman College in a 101-14 win, securing them their highest-scoring game since 1999.
Get Ready With Me For A Fairfield University Basketball Game!
Get Ready With Me: Securing A Fairfield University Men’s Basketball Player A.K.A #15 The best time of the year has finally arrived: basketball season! School spirit, fast-paced competition and a Stags Hospitality hot dog … I can’t picture myself attaining such joy from anything else. My love for our brand-new Leo D. Mahoney arena is no secret.
Perfect Pumpkin Picks For Your Next Recipe
Last year I shared the 10 best pumpkin-inspired recipes for the fall season, which included pumpkin bread, pie, soup, cookies, ravioli, lattes, breakfast items, hummus, whoopie pies and brownies. So now, it only feels right that I compile a list of 10 more unique and delicious ideas as we are in the middle of a beautiful autumn right now! Pumpkin Sauce A thick seasonal sauce could be used in either pasta or gnocchi dishes with ease.
It’s Time To Rethink The Ethics Of The Draft Law
In the past few days, my social media feed has been filled with videos joking about the rumors regarding the possibility of women joining the United States military draft. The American government has enforced a draft in all six major wars: the American Revolutionary War, the Civil War, World War I, World War II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War.
Spooky Treats To Spice Up Your Halloween Season
One of my favorite parts of throwing a party is making sweet treats to match the vibe, and spooky Halloween parties are no exception! During the month of October, there are so many different recipes you can create and decorate to cater to your aesthetic. Ranging from sweet to savory, here are my favorite ideas when looking for adorable and tasty snacks that your house guests will love.
Cook With Brooke: Big Mac Bowl
Introducing … the “Big Mac” bowl! Inspired by my favorite meal at the famous fast-food chain and enhanced by a cheeseburger meal I saw on TikTok, a new easy and tasty plate will now reach your table. This is probably the most low-effort and affordable dinner I’ve introduced in a while—the perfect adjective combination for college students when looking for a recipe! Ingredients: Shredded lettuce ½ diced tomato – ½ diced white onion 1 tbsp. olive oil 1 burger patty 1 tbsp. garlic powder 1 tbsp.
Stunning Performances At The Sound On Sound Music Festival
The second annual Sound on Sound music festival took place this past weekend on Saturday, Sept. 30 and Sunday, Oct. 1—and I had tickets! I had no idea this event took place last year, but I’m so thankful I heard about it this time. I saw so many talented musicians, ate delicious food and danced side-by-side with a herd of strangers on what turned out to be a sunny, breezy, beautiful day.
The Importance of Literary Citizenship
I’ve known from a very young age that I loved to write. This isn’t to say that I knew that I wanted to pursue a career in the field just yet, but I was aware of how much I enjoyed creating my own stories outside of the classroom on a daily basis. I would like to think my passion for storytelling came from my early affection for reading. As a child, I would go through a book series in a week as I became fully immersed in the world built by the author.
Highly Attended Flu Vaccine Clinic Causes Long Lines
This past Tuesday, Sept. 26, the Fairfield University Student Health Center sponsored the first of their three annual flu vaccine clinics in the lower-level Barone Campus Center—and the attendance was overwhelming. Throughout the five-hour window that the tables were open, a single line which wrapped around the ground floor persisted. The high attendance led to an increased wait time, with some students standing for close to an hour.
Student Editors Shine Through “Dogwood”
In the final few weeks of May, the Fairfield University “Publishing Practicum” course made their finishing touches on the annual literary journal, “Dogwood: A Journal of Poetry and Prose”. Starting in January 2023, four Fairfield upperclassmen composed a book from conception to publication in the ENGL 4952 three-credit course.
A Stag’s Summer Abroad
Ciao! As I sit here getting ready to write about the past three weeks of my life, I’m currently typing away in a bustling literary cafe in the beautiful city of Florence, Italy—a place I’ve been dying to check off my bucket list for what seems like an eternity. When I was in high school and touring colleges, I made it a point to always ask if there were study abroad options specifically in Italy because I knew that was an experience I wanted to apply for.
Clam Jam Cancellation Creates Controversy Amongst Upperclassmen
As anticipation rose and buses lined up outside of the Leo D. Mahoney Arena for the annual University-sponsored event Clam Jam, an email from the Office of Student Engagement was sent out at 11:34 a.m., only 26 minutes before the event started. The subject line read: “CLAM JAM CANCELED”. Inside the message, the passage explains that “due to unsafe weather conditions,” Clam Jam was canceled completely, with no plans for rescheduling—despite the event’s previous “rain or shine” description.
Stags Hospitality Reveals Behind-The-Scenes Efforts to Reduce Food Waste
At 6:30 p.m. on any given night at the Daniel and Grace Tully Dining Commons, it is a guarantee that the silver, metal racks heading to the dishwashing station are filled with used plates—and even more so, piled with leftover, uneaten food. Sophomore Jenn Fajardo exclaimed, “Based on what I see, I feel like food is being thrown out. But honestly, how would students know when we’re not informed what goes on in the kitchen?” she asked.
" Food Waste
At 6:30 p.m. on any given night at the Daniel and Grace Tully Dining Commons, it is a guarantee that the silver, metal racks heading to the dishwashing station are filled with used plates—and even more so, piled with leftover, uneaten food. Sophomore Jenn Fajardo exclaimed, “Based on what I see, I feel like food is being thrown out. But honestly, how would students know when we’re not informed what goes on in the kitchen?” she asked.
State of the Stag: A Review of the 2022-2023 Season
Although most Fairfield teams are beginning to condition and train for the upcoming academic year, a look back at the record-breaking and notable Stag accomplishments for the 2022-2023 season is in store.
Stags Share Their Favorite School Year Memories
As the 2022-2023 school year comes to a close, Stags of all classes have come to share their favorite Fairfield memories that stuck with them in the past year. Emily Carra ‘24 shared that her lasting memory was the FUSA-run President’s Ball that took place in September. “It was great this year,” she exclaimed. Another earlier memory comes from Bobby Schattle ‘25, who said “Facilitating summer orientation with the other NSLs” was the highlight of his school year.
Cook With Brooke: Poke Bowls
Ingredients: ½ white rice 5 tbsp. rice vinegar 1 tbsp. sugar ¼ lb. sushi-grade salmon Half of a cucumber, diced in quarters Half of an avocado A bunch of green onions Spicy mayo (store-bought or equal parts kewpie mayo and sriracha) Seaweed salad Directions: Start off by making your rice! If you’re cooking for one, I usually do ½ cup of rice to 1 cup of water. And, as I’ve mentioned numerous times, I used my mini-DASH rice cooker, which determines both the time and heat it’s on.
Fairfield Film Presents The Best Of Cinefest 2023
On Thursday, April 27 at 7 p.m. in the Regina A. Quick Center For The Arts, the annual Cinefest film competition took place. Submissions to enter the festival were open for all class years and even non-majors, however, it must be a film made within a Fairfield University FTMA class in the current academic year. The night opened up with student presenters Jacen Janueski ‘25, Alexa Sewell ‘26 and Paolo Valencia ‘24.
The New Must-Watch Mockumentary: “Jury Duty”
Calling all “Parks and Recreation,” “The Office” and “Abbott Elementary” fans. A new mockumentary just dropped and it’s unlike anything you’ve ever seen before. The eight-episode mini-series called “Jury Duty” is a “Truman Show”-like set-up where all characters on the show are actors, except one. Ronald Gladden was one of 4,000 people who applied to a Craigslist advertisement that sought participants for a documentary about the judicial process.
Take A Study Break And Paint At Hands On Pottery!
The other week I had the luxury of returning to my childhood roots by visiting Hands on Pottery located at 1700 Post Rd. With a majority of the crowd being eight years or younger, I was surprised more college-aged people weren’t there! Not only was I able to express my artistic ability, which is a rare opportunity these days, but it was just the relaxing activity I needed to indulge in during finals time—much like most of us.
Fairfield’s Free Birthday Treats!
Happy Birthday! Well, maybe it’s not your birthday just yet, but I thought that when the time rolls around, I would get you prepared. A common rule of thumb for many businesses is that when it is your yearly celebration of you, customers are offered a free gift. And, luckily enough, a lot of businesses in Fairfield and nearby are waiting for you to pick up something lovely for your special day.
Senior Students Denounce Lack of Student and Guest Tickets for Commencement Ball
After four years of working toward a bachelor’s degree, Fairfield University celebrates graduating seniors with the annual Senior Week. For the current graduating class of 2023, several events leading up to their walk across the stage are planned and advertised.
Lopez-Sénéchal Makes History
Five years ago, the Fairfield University athletics program could have never predicted the records and achievements that Lou Lopez-Sénéchal ‘22 would go on to shatter and continue to break even after her time as a Stag has ended. The alumna not only established her mark within Fairfield’s court, but on the University of Connecticut’s and soon enough, College Park Center’s too.
Dear Brooke: Finding Campus Jobs
“Dear Brooke, I’m looking for on-campus paying jobs that aren’t for work-study students only. Do you know of anywhere I can apply?” With all of the expensive, end-of-the-year events, it’s no surprise some of us Stags are looking for a little extra cash—I know I certainly am.
Clam Jam 2023 Is Overpriced
After Dean Johnson announced there would be no guest passes sold for Clam Jam 2023 following the incidents at Santa Con, I anxiously awaited to hear what this year’s Clam Jam would entail. On April 12, we finally received an email sharing all of the information. For seniors, tickets will be $85 whereas juniors are set to pay $90 for one ticket. The price includes transportation to and from Penfield Beach, food, alcohol for those 21+ and entertainment by “Imanbek”.
Faculty Collaborates With The Golden Hill Paugussett People on “More Than A Land Acknowledgment”
“More Than a Land Acknowledgement” was Fairfield University’s first faculty-run, public gathering that addressed the Indigenous roots and meaning of the land that the town of Fairfield currently occupies. The two-hour Peace & Justice Studies event consisted of a panel held in the DiMenna-Nyselius Library multimedia room on Tuesday, April 4.
Opinion: A Love Letter To Leo D. Mahoney Arena
Unfortunately, with the end of the basketball season comes the end of the Leo D. Mahoney Arena … that is, of course, until this upcoming November. As Alumni Hall was knocked down at the end of my first year, I patiently awaited the year-and-a-half-long renovation process with both excitement and doubts.
A Message to Shein Consumers
Listen up “fashionistas,” it’s finally time to address something very troubling: SHEIN. I honestly didn’t think I would need to write about a company that is so blatantly terrible because I thought that it would both fizzle out over time and the thousands of sources that are easily accessible on the internet would warn consumers about the truth.
Cook With Brooke: Shrimp Fried Rice
Introducing the epitome of a college student meal: shrimp fried rice. Not only is this dinner so easy and cheap to make, but it’s actually pretty nutritious as it has the perfect balance of veggies, carbohydrates and protein—which is probably why I’ve probably eaten it six times in the past three weeks. If you bulk up on all of the ingredients (a.k.a a large bag of frozen shrimp, veggies and rice), you could very well get four to five tasty meals out of it that will last a while.
Fairfield’s “One Book One Town” At The Quick Center
The Regina A. Quick Center for The Arts welcomed author Ivan Maisel on Tuesday, March 28 to speak about his book “I Keep Trying to Catch His Eye: A Memoir of Loss, Grief and Love”. The heartwrenching and honest story shares Maisel’s experience following the suicide of his son Max, as each chapter reveals the rollercoaster of recovery, grief and love.
Dear Brooke, How Do I Prepare For Course Registration?
With five registration periods under my belt, I feel like I know the ins and outs of these stressful weeks pretty well. The routine I have been using for years has become incredibly easy to pick out what courses I want to pick—but maybe that’s just because I’m a rising Senior with only a few requirements remaining. You underclassmen are lucky! Degree Evaluation The first step is to always log into your Degree Evaluation.
Women’s Lacrosse Beats Vermont in Competitive Game
The Fairfield University women’s lacrosse team secured their fourth win of the season this past Saturday, March 4, as they dominated the University of Vermont in a 14-8 victory. Their 2022-2023 record now advances to 4-2. The first goal of the afternoon was scored by graduate student midfielder Ellie Grefenstette at the 11:44 mark, and only 40 seconds later, Grefenstette netted the Stag’s second goal of the game.
Cook With Brooke: Orange Chicken
Someone once said that Chinese food is the best comfort meal, and I could not agree more. After perfecting my orange chicken recipe, I always find myself heading to the grocery store for the needed ingredients at any minor inconvenience. Between the soft breading and the sweet, sticky sauce, it never fails to bring a smile to my face and a nice long sigh of relief.
Not Enough of Us Are Working Toward Our Dream Job
Whenever I find myself giving an inspirational speech or explanation of my educational background, which is not too often, I always seem to bring up something that my doctor once said to me after I excitedly told her my plans for my future: “You’re going to need to find yourself a sugar daddy.” As an English Creative Writing major with the hopes of one day becoming a screenwriter, I’ve heard it all. And, it’s nothing that I haven’t thought to myself before. I know the industry is hard to get into.
FUSA Announces Winner of 76th Presidential Election
Juniors Aliyah Seenauth and Zachary Vargas were announced victorious in the 76th Fairfield University Student Association’s Presidential election on Feb. 28. Seenauth and Vargas will serve as President and Vice President, respectively, for the 2023-2024 academic year. With the closing of the University due to heavy snowfall, the election party was moved to a live, online webinar versus the pre-arranged in-person meeting in the lower-level Barone Campus Center.
Dear Brooke, How Do I Plan A Spring Break Vacation On A Budget?
This year will be my first year going somewhere for our spring recess, and I am incredibly excited. My freshman year was still affected by the spread of COVID-19 and last year I didn’t take the initiative to look for anything until it was too late. In these past couple of weeks, I have booked a nice five-day break with my roommate and friend in Florida.
FUSA Helps Charlie Capalbo’s Legacy Live On
Right at the bottom of the Daniel and Grace Tully Dining Commons stairs, the Fairfield University’s Student Association could be seen selling black and red hockey jerseys last Wednesday, Feb. 22 and Thursday, Feb. 23.
FUSA Candidates Compete to be Association’s 76th President at Annual Presidential Debate
The Fairfield University Student’s Association recently hosted its annual presidential debate in the lower level Barone Campus Center this past Tuesday, Feb. 21, where two candidate teams took on questioning. One ticket consisted of presidential candidate and current FUSA Vice President Aliyah Seenauth ‘24 and vice presidential candidate Zachary Vargas ‘24, whereas the other ticket was presidential candidate Giovanni Young ‘25 and vice presidential candidate Bob Paltrineri ‘25.
Dean Johnson Surprises Students with Email Regarding Clam Jam Guest Passes
“The University has decided no guest tickets will be sold for Clam Jam this spring,” Dean of Students, William Johnson, Ph.D. sent out in a school-wide email Monday, Feb. 13. The mass message served as a long-awaited follow-up to a previous email sent on Tuesday, Dec. 20 of last year that discussed “Santa Con,” a student-organized holiday-themed gathering that took place ten days prior.
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