In interviews with The News-Letter, five dining workers described the challenges facing their work. They drew attention to understaffing, safety and concerns about temporary workers being able to sign up for shifts before employees. The identities of these personnel will remain anonymous, as The News-Letter grants anonymity to individuals who are at risk of losing their jobs by disclosing information.

Understaffed and overworked staff

Homewood dining locations with meal swipe options consist of four different locations: Hopkins Café, Nolan's on 33rd, CharMar and Levering Kitchens. These locations serve as the primary dining locations on campus, especially to freshmen and sophomores who are required to have meal plans.

Hopkins dining halls are composed of several different stations, creating a variety of options for the students to choose from. Dining workers get assigned to a certain station to help cook the food or serve students.

Several Hopkins Dining employees expressed that management has failed to adequately schedule the workers, causing some employees to have to handle several stations at the same time and leaving them exhausted with the workload.

"The Red Lantern station [at Levering Kitchens] should have two people serving the line," one employee explained. "They take cooks that are supposed to be cooking and put them on the line to help serve. They are not supposed to be line serving, but they will jump in and help because of the students."

Another worker supported the claim that the issue of understaffing has the greatest impact on the students, as it disrupts the workflow in the kitchen.

"If you have less people working in there, nothing is really going to be done," she emphasized. "Who ends up hurt is the kids. That's why sometimes you go [to Nolan's and] there's no food, because nobody's cooking in the back. There are athletes that come [at night] and I know they've just finished practice, and I feel bad when we don't have food."

One employee gave an example of one of her colleagues who works at the dishwashing area at Nolan's on 33rd, shedding light on the duties he has to handle all at once and equipment challenges that make their jobs harder.

"First he has to wash the dishes, and then [take out] the trash, and it's not just one trash," she said. "On top of that, he has to bring the plates from the back to the front. The conveyor belt is broken, and I don't know when - if ever - they are going to get it fixed. This is hurting [the personnel]."

In an interview to The News-Letter, another employee stated that feeling overworked is a shared sentiment among the personnel, and used the Woodstone station at Hopkins Café, which serves pizza, pasta and bread, as an example.

"We're all overworked," she stated. "The pizza station is one person running pizza and pasta. When she comes in, she's expected to roll pizza dough, par-cook the dough, top pieces, bowl pasta, make pasta, serve the line and cook at the same time. There is no way that she can do all of that alone."

Temporary workers

When Hopkins Dining shifted from being managed by Bon Appétit to the University, all employees who wanted to stay were rehired. In addition to this pre-existing dining team, management has been hiring additional dining workers through a temporary worker agency.

Regular dining workers are hourly employees who receive regular wages for shifts that they sign up for or are assigned to for up to 40 hours a week. Any hours worked weekly beyond 40 require overtime pay as established by the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). The same requirement applies to temporary workers ("temps") who differ from regular workers in that they are managed by an agency external to Hopkins Dining.

In an email to The News-Letter, a Hopkins spokesperson stated that temps are only brought in to fill staff absences due to call-outs, vacations or periodic vacancies.

According to the union contract that was signed between the Hopkins Dining employees - represented by UNITE HERE Local 7 - and the University, temps can only be offered the shifts if the shifts have not been filled by employees.

In interviews with The News-Letter, multiple employees alleged that management is violating the contract by offering shifts to temps before employees.

"Temps are only supposed to come in if they don't have no one to fill the shift," an employee explained. "Any open shifts are supposed to be posted in every unit every week. We sign to work for them. A temp is never supposed to come before us."

In an email to The News-Letter, Tracy Lingo, the president of the Local 7 Union, which represents Hopkins Dining employees supported this claim, confirming that the University's dining management has - in some instances - not offered open shifts to union workers before temporary employees.

"This is an issue that we have been fighting constantly over the past two years and have raised with the University repeatedly during our monthly labor management meetings," Lingo explained. "The root of the problem is that Hopkins has not hired enough workers to fully cover the needed shifts. Under our contract, open shifts are supposed to be posted for union members to pick up."

Lingo further elaborated on the actions Local 7 took to tackle this problem, along with the difficulties that have come with enforcing the contract.

"When we are able to catch that a particular shift has not been posted, we have won grievances and the University has been forced to pay Union workers back wages," Lingo wrote. "But keeping track of the temp work and posted shifts is a tremendous amount of work that our rank and file workers do every week. Meanwhile we have repeatedly sent the university qualified applicants who get rejected or never hear back from the university."

Two workers allege that the situation has left some workers unable to volunteer for certain shifts and fall under their required hours, and shared their frustration with the situation. Employees also pointed out that the dress code rules have been much stricter for full-time employees than for temporary workers.

"The temps come in here and can wear anything," one employee said. "But if we forget our aprons, we get in trouble. I feel like this is not fair. If you want to make a rule, make sure it applies to everybody."

According to two employees interviewed, regular staff find themselves in situations where they have to train temps while maintaining their duties. One worker explained the process of training temporary workers while still trying to fulfill assigned duties in an interview with The News-Letter.

"When temps come in, management will tell them an employee name and send them to their station," she said. "They leave it up to us to train them; along with being swamped with all of this work that you're already in the midst of doing, you have to stop what you're doing to train a temp in the process."

Lingo explained that the differences between unionized dining hall workers and temporary workers hired by a staffing agency goes beyond just training differences. She explained that the benefits and protections guaranteed to union workers through their contract are not offered to temporary workers, which disadvantages these workers.

Lingo elaborated that the Union doesn't have information as to what temporary worker training exactly consists of, or if the qualifications of temporary workers are checked when they are offered shifts.

"It is unclear to us what training the temp workers have or do not have," Lingo stated. "Many temp workers tell us they saw the shifts posted on app list Instawork which allow workers to pick up shifts. Workers may have to answer questions about their qualifications, but it is unclear how or if any person from the apps checks these qualifications."

In an email to The News-Letter, a University spokesperson confirmed that all temporary workers are subject to background checks and are trained through the temp agency.

"Johns Hopkins uses a staffing agency to provide temporary staff. Temporary staff are not considered JHU employees and they receive training through their agency," the spokesperson stated.

Communication issues with the management

Hopkins Dining managers are present at the dining halls to provide oversight and lead daily operations in collaboration with the culinary team. The employees explained in their interviews that having managers present in the dining halls is important to quickly fix the issues that come up during service times.

During the interviews conducted with these workers, multiple employees expressed that they felt that management was not concerned about them and stated their complaints and requests often go unheard.

Multiple employees alleged that managers are not often present on the floor in the dining hall to resolve issues.

"Everything is out of control, and the higher people that run it really don't care," one worker said. "They don't come in there to check and make sure everything's right - not unless there's a complaint. They need to really realize that it takes everybody to pull together to make this work."

One employee voiced that the lack of response from management to worker concerns makes the dining hall employees feel like they are undervalued.

"It's almost like we're treated like we're just at the bottom of everything," she said. "We're under everybody. We're under housekeeping. We're under management. It doesn't matter who it is. Like Hopkins Dining is [at] the bottom of the Hopkins chain at the University."

A University spokesperson stated that all complaints made by workers to management are considered on a case-by-case basis and directed to the appropriate channels.

"Management takes all complaints seriously and based on the information shared, will take appropriate action consistent with JHU policies and procedures and will keep the reporting employee informed of the status of the investigation, where feasible and provide any additional support the employee may need," they wrote.

Ongoing Mice Infestation

Multiple Hopkins Dining employees stated that there was a mice infestation issue at Tossed Kitchens in Levering Kitchens. Hopkins Dining originally announced that the station would be closed until further notice due to maintenance repairs in October 2024, and the station is now open again.

In an email to The News-Letter, a University spokesperson confirmed that a rodent issue was identified below the subfloor at Tossed Kitchens, and stated that the location was closed as soon as the issue was noticed so the floor and wall could be removed.

Security Concerns

CharMar operates until midnight every day of the week. Two Hopkins Dining workers brought up worries about the lack of safety for the CharMar personnel.

One employee criticized the management's decision to employ only one cashier for hours close to midnight, expressing the chaos that takes place at CharMar toward closing times.

"They'll have one cashier," she said. "She's the only one on the door and when it's time to close, if a whole group comes in, she's there and has to sit there to deal with that. It happened so many times."

Another employee stated their disappointment with the lack of security concern from the management when it comes to the incidents that are happening around campus.

"Personally, I don't think the management is really concerned about their employees," he said. "My main concern is employee safety. I don't feel comfortable the way they do things."

The worker further explained the series of events that take place when potentially dangerous, non-Hopkins-affiliated individuals come into the place.

"Over in CharMar, we have people coming in off the street," he stated. "They pretend to come in, search around and steal. They are sometimes very aggressive with the students and us. [The management doesn't] have no one there to secure us - particularly at night, when they have only one cashier."

A University spokesperson provided information on the security measures available at Hopkins dining facilities, stating that all dining facilities fall within the patrol area for Public Safety officers who are present on all campuses 24 hours a day for 365 days a year.

"Additionally, Public Safety text and email alerts provide timely information that aids our community in making informed safety decisions, including dining staff," they wrote. "You can find information about our alert systems here. Dining employees should call public safety if they have a concern. For All Campuses: Dial (667) 208-1200. The Public Safety Escort Program is also available."

Future Action

Lingo stated that the Union will continue to work towards more benefits for dining personnel, including negotiating for unemployment benefits during academic breaks, which workers were previously eligible for under Bon Appétit.

"One other issue we have had to address with the university is that when our members worked for subcontractors like Bon Appétit they were eligible for unemployment during breaks in the [school] year," Lingo wrote. "During bargaining we asked Hopkins to provide workers with a stipend equal to unemployment and they refused. They are supposed to offer everyone full time work year round, but this has been difficult to enforce."

Lingo further explained that although the language in the contract guarantees workers 40 hours, it had been difficult for many workers to reach 40 hours with scheduled shifts, and that the Union has taken action to enforce full time work. The Union will return to bargaining with the University this spring, and Lingo shared an optimistic perspective on the possibility for improved working conditions.

"We [will] be going back into bargaining this coming spring and look forward to working with other campus Union's and the campus community to win a contract with even better benefits and wages for Hopkins Dining workers," she wrote.

One employee was less optimistic about the possibility for change. In an interview with The News-Letter, she shared her bleak outlook on improving working conditions.

"It's like speaking on deaf ears," she stated. "You can't ask for something that you know that you're not going to receive. It's kind of pointless - you learn to deal with it."

Samhi Boppana contributed reporting to this article.

The News-Letter: Could you introduce yourself and explain your role at Warehouse Cinemas?

Melanie Carter: My name is Melanie Carter, and I'm the Customer Service Manager at Warehouse Cinemas. I started three years ago at our first location in Frederick, Maryland, and then I helped open our second location in Hagerstown. Now, [the Baltimore location] is my third Warehouse Cinemas location. I'm about to hit four years next May.

I started right after high school during COVID-19 because I was bored and looking for a job. Over time, I kept working hard, got promoted, and found a love for marketing. Now, I'm the team lead for social media management across all locations. It's been a ride, but I've grown to love movies even more through this job. The best part of the job is seeing customers' excitement. Even if I'm not watching the movies myself, seeing people so thrilled makes me happy.

N-L: What's a typical day like working there?

MC: A day here always smells like popcorn - it's sweet, lively, and always exciting! There are some offline operational tasks like meeting people, checking tickets, serving food and scooping popcorn. But my work goes beyond offline operations - online customer experience is also a big part of it. I manage social media and work with studios to ensure their content is promoted as they want. I also work on advertising campaigns for the cinema and making connections in the community.

N-L: That sounds so fun. Forgive me if this question sounds like an outsider's cliché, but do you get a chance to watch some of the movies that premiere there?

MC: Funny enough, since we are at the theater all the time, we don't watch movies as much as people think. When I do, I usually go to another theater so it doesn't feel like I'm at work. If there's a movie I'm really excited about, I'll try to sneak in and catch bits of it while working.

N-L: This is more personal, but do you have a favorite film?

MC: My professional answer is Parasite by NEON - I love that movie. It's such a creative blend of dark comedy and suspense, and the story has great depth. It really stuck with me for a long time. My fun answer is National Treasure with Nicolas Cage. I don't know why, but I just love that movie!

N-L: Do you have a memorable or unusual experience from your job?

MC: My best memories usually come from event planning. Last November, we hosted an event for Beyoncé's Renaissance movie. I decorated the lobby with silver everywhere and brought in influencers from Baltimore. We turned the theater into a club for three days - it was so fun! Planning big events like that is super rewarding.

N-L: What might surprise people about the behind-the-scenes of working at a theater?

MC: A lot of people think we still use film reels, but everything is satellite and digital now, which surprises them. Another thing is how much popcorn we go through - on busy days, we pop 60 to 70 batches!

N-L: With your role in social media, how do you prepare for huge release days like Wicked?

MC: We work backward, looking at projections and marketing trends to make data-driven decisions for our marketing campaigns. We also try to create movie-themed settings in our theater so that when fans step into the theater, they already have a slice of the story! For example, for Wicked, we're doing green and pink popcorn, a light show, giveaways and decorating the lobby like the fictional Yellow Brick Road. It's about making the experience more immersive, so guests feel like they're getting more than just a movie.

N-L: What challenges do you face?

MC: The biggest challenge is when movies don't play correctly - like if a file gets corrupted. Also, it can get overwhelming on busy days, especially for younger staff. But it's rewarding to see the crowds and connect with customers, even if it's just chatting while scooping popcorn.

N-L: Do you think Wicked and Gladiator releasing on the same day will have a similar impact to Barbie and Oppenheimer?

MC: We initially thought Wicked and Gladiator might have that same dual hype, but Wicked seems to be overshadowing Gladiator. It's different from Barbie and Oppenheimer, where the excitement was more evenly split. That said, we're preparing for a busy couple of months, and it's always a fun time!

N-L: Which movie are you more excited about?

MC: Definitely Wicked! I saw it early at a cinema in Towson. But I also think Gladiator is underrated and will surprise people if they give it a chance.

N-L: What do you think film means to a city with a strong art scene like Baltimore?

MC: Baltimore has an incredible indie and artsy film scene. We collaborate with Mondo Baltimore to showcase retro and independent films. It's been amazing to see how the city embraces this content, especially from distributors like A24 and NEON.

N-L: What do you think film means for the world?

MC: I think it's an escape. Watching a movie allows people to disconnect and immerse themselves in another world. I especially love seeing people come to the theater alone - it's their personal time to escape without distractions.

N-L: How has working here shaped your perception of cinema?

MC: It's made me realize how emotionally impactful movies are. For example, Barbie brought mothers and daughters together, while Top Gun: Maverick had the same effect for fathers and sons. It's beautiful to see how films create these shared experiences.

N-L: How do you feel theaters are impacted by streaming services?

MC: It's definitely a challenge, especially with movies going to streaming so soon after their theatrical release, but we focus on making the theater experience special with events and immersive elements. That's what sets us apart and keeps people coming back.

N-L: What changes, if any, would you like to see at Warehouse?

MC: Honestly, Warehouse is really good at adapting based on feedback. We're a small business with only three locations, so changes happen quickly. As long as we keep innovating, I don't think much needs to change.

This year's LOTQ saw some notable changes compared to previous iterations. The event took place on Wyman Quad in front of Shriver Hall, instead of the usual Keyser Quad location. However, the spirit of the event remained unchanged, as attendees enjoyed a lively festival featuring giveaways, music and a fireworks display.

The festivities officially began at 6 p.m. and drew an eager crowd. Booths from 19 university offices, including the Johns Hopkins Alumni Association and Student Well-Being, offered students engaging activities and opportunities to connect. Students indulged in seasonal treats like hot chocolate, cookies and candy while many lined up to collect LOTQ mugs with a customized design. Other giveaways included snow globe ornaments and t-shirts.

As the evening progressed, student arts groups organized by the Office of Arts and Innovation took the stage in front of Shriver Hall. The performances showcased the talents of the Hopkins community - featuring a cappella groups, a Pep Band performance and a fire dancing show by the Johns Hopkins Entertainers Club.

At 7:15 p.m., President Ronald J. Daniels addressed the crowd, officially illuminating the campus's holiday lights and eliciting cheers from attendees.

During President Daniels' remarks in front of Shriver Hall, protestors from the Hopkins Justice Collective (HJC) held a silent demonstration behind the glass doors leading into Shriver and on Decker Quad. Protestors raised Palestinian flags and a banner reading "Free Palestine: Divest from Occupation."

In a press release to The News-Letter, HJC alleged misconduct, intimidation and harassment by the Johns Hopkins University Public Safety Security Officers, who were present at the LOTQ.

Following Daniels' remarks, the evening concluded with a fireworks show, which lit up the campus and brought the celebration to an end.

Originally scheduled for Dec. 5, the event was postponed due to inclement weather. Some students, like Junior Prasi Thapa, shared the challenges of the cold weather in an interview with The News-Letter.

"[Compared to last year], it's really cold today. I'm glad they switched it after the wind advisory, but it's been freezing," she said. "I wish it was earlier in the semester."

Despite the chilly temperatures, the event's atmosphere left a lasting impression on attendees. In an interview with The News-Letter, Junior Dayrin Marquina shared her favorite part of the event.

"I really love the camaraderie of bringing all the students together. It's a pretty similar vibe to last year's, where we can see all of our friends," she said.

Samhi Boppana contributed reporting to this article.

The News-Letter: Tell me about Sotto Sopra. Could you share the story of how it got started?

Riccardo Bosio: Well, I started Sotto Sopra in 1996 in Mount Vernon. The name Sotto Sopra means "up and down." "Sotto" means down, and "Sopra" means up. I'm from Bergamo, a city in Italy that's literally divided into two parts -the sotto (lower) part and the sopra (upper) part. Whenever you say you're from Bergamo, people ask, "Are you from Sotto or Sopra?"

But the name has another meaning - it represents something unexpected or turned upside down. For example, when your mother says, "Your room is sotto sopra," she's saying it's upside down and needs to be fixed.

When naming the restaurant, I wanted something unique - something that reflected my creative approach to Italian food. At Sotto Sopra, we are not about traditional, predictable dishes like you might find in Little Italy. Here, you'll discover something eclectic and inspired. For example, I added a Spanish dish to the menu after a trip to Spain. Sotto Sopra is about reimagining what Italian food can be.

N-L: Who are the gears behind Sotto Sopra? What does it look like staff-wise?

RB: I've had the same core team for 15 years. Most of them started as dishwashers and now run the place - it's like a family. My own two kids, who are 11 and 14, are involved too. They don't work full-time, of course - they go to school. But I'm teaching them the value of serving people. Restaurants are great for life education.

N-L: That's so true. I worked in a restaurant once, and it was a valuable experience. How did you get into cooking?

RB: I grew up with five siblings and one paycheck, so there was never much food on the table. A friend told me about a school in Italy where you could learn cooking and eat as much as you wanted. That sounded like heaven to me, so I enrolled. I thought it was the coolest thing - learning to cook and eating at the same time. That's how it all started.

N-L: Would you say food was a big part of your family life growing up?

RB: Absolutely. We never missed dinner at the table. With five kids, meals were always about family and connection.

N-L: How did you decide to enter the restaurant industry? What have you enjoyed - and maybe not enjoyed - about running a restaurant?

RB: For me, restaurants are all about hospitality. I came to the U.S. at 21 and growing up Italian, I already understood hospitality - it's in my blood. I'm good at understanding what guests want and delivering that experience. It's not always easy, but the joy of making people happy keeps me going.

N-L: I saw on your Instagram that you mentioned bouncing back after COVID. How did you navigate the challenges of the pandemic? Has it changed how you approach the business?

RB: It was tough, no question. But the community supported us. We started an online pizza business to recoup some losses, and it worked out well. It was a reminder of how adaptable we have to be.

N-L: On your social media, you also highlight Maryland ingredients. How do you blend local flavors with Italian cuisine?

RB: We use the best of both worlds. Some ingredients, like mozzarella and fresh cheeses, come directly from Italy - we get them through FedEx every Thursday. But for produce and other fresh items, we source locally from suppliers in Jessup and Columbia. Maryland has its own culinary identity, and we embrace that in our dishes.

N-L: What inspires the dishes you create?

RB: My childhood in Italy is my biggest influence. For example, I'm crazy about mushrooms because I grew up in the mountains. I also love Gorgonzola cheese - it's from a city near where I grew up. My upbringing on a farm taught me to appreciate fresh, high-quality ingredients, and that inspires everything I make.

N-L: What's your cooking philosophy?

RB: Keep it simple - never more than three ingredients. Simplicity is the hardest thing to achieve in cooking, but it's also the most rewarding. Great food starts with the best ingredients, like olive oil, balsamic vinegar and mozzarella. Beyond that, I cook based on how I feel. If I feel good, that feeling goes into the dish and reaches the customer.

N-L: Why did you choose Mount Vernon as the home for Sotto Sopra?

RB: I was working as a private chef for the Italian ambassador in Washington, D.C. when I met some Italian investors. They owned a building in Mount Vernon and invited me to open a restaurant there. In 1996, Baltimore's food scene was practically nonexistent, so we built Sotto Sopra from the ground up. Now, I own the building.

N-L: That's amazing. How has Sotto Sopra shaped Mount Vernon's culture?

RB: Mount Vernon has changed a lot. Unfortunately, many people have moved to Harbor East, and we've lost some of the vibrancy. But we're working to bring it back. Events like our Peabody Nights, where musicians from the Peabody Institute perform, help reconnect the community through arts and culture.

N-L: You've also introduced the Opera Night, which is a signature event for Sotto Sopra. How did those start?

RB: Opera is such a big part of Italian culture. My brother came up with the idea after seeing a show, and we invited a singer to perform at the restaurant. It's been a hit ever since. We don't just play opera as background music - we share the story behind each piece so guests can connect with it.

N-L: Let's move to some fun, quick questions. What's the most popular dish at Sotto Sopra versus your personal favorite?

RB: Fried polenta is the most popular, but my personal favorite is spinach ravioli.

N-L: Why spinach ravioli?

RB: It's simple, timeless and always done well.

N-L: If you had to describe Sotto Sopra as a dish, what would it be?

RB: Risotto. It's not the most popular dish anymore, but it's what put us on the map in Baltimore back in 1996.

N-L: Now, a fun one - do you believe in pineapple on pizza?

RB: On my dead body (laughs).

N-L: Good to know! Lastly, what's a phrase or motto you live by?

RB: Be happy and live every day like it's your last. If you make it to midnight, thank God.

N-L: That's a great philosophy. What lasting impression do you hope customers take away from their visit to Sotto Sopra?

RB: That they leave happy. That's all I want - for people to feel joy when they walk out the door.

The classic: Grilled cheese with soup (and extras)

Nothing beats a grilled cheese fresh off the griddle, with its golden toasted bread and gooey melted cheese. Add a steaming bowl of soup, and you've got the perfect comfort meal. Tomato soup is the classic choice, but honestly, any soup will do.

Take it to the next level with extras. For the sandwich, try spreading leftover cranberry sauce from Thanksgiving for a tart, sweet twist - layer in salty meats like ham or prosciutto for an umami kick. Want crunch? Toss croutons or cheesy oyster crackers into your soup.

The soup itself can be as simple as canned broth or as fancy as something from Ratatouille. As long as it's piping hot, it'll complement your grilled cheese, packed with flavor and holiday goodness.

Oven-baked enchiladas

What could be better than a warm, cheesy dish that's easy to make and lasts for days? Enter oven-baked enchiladas. All you need are corn tortillas, a can of store-bought enchilada sauce (red or green, try both) and shredded cheese.

Grab an oven-safe dish. Start with a layer of sauce, add a tortilla, more sauce and a generous sprinkling of cheese. Repeat the layers until your dish is full. Bake until the top is bubbling and golden brown.

For toppings, try chopped green onions, sour cream, guacamole or hot sauce. Feeling adventurous? Add ingredients like olives, beans or sauteed vegetables into the layers. If you include meat, ensure it's fully cooked, as this may extend your baking time. Personally, I prefer the vegetarian version - it's simpler and stress-free.

Melted cheese on toast

Craving something quick and cheesy? This two-minute snack is as simple as it gets. Take a slice of bread (sourdough is my favorite), lay two slices of cheese on top and microwave for about 30 seconds - just until the cheese melts.

For extra flavor, sprinkle red pepper flakes or use a spicy cheese like pepper jack. Be careful not to overdo it, though; cheese bubbles in patches when overheated and can turn tough once cooled. Every time, it's a small science experiment, with factors like bread type, cheese thickness and your microwave's power all coming into play. But when you hit that perfect melt, it's pure magic.

Hot tea

We close with a winter staple: hot tea. Fruity blends, mint teas or classic black teas are ideal for this time of year. Not only do they soothe your throat and warm your body, but they also double as hand warmers when you cradle your mug.

There's something comforting about feeling that first sip travel through you, radiating warmth. One of my high school history teachers always had a giant mug of tea to fend off the chill in fall and winter - it left quite an impression.

Whether you're cozying up with a grilled cheese or sipping tea while gazing at holiday lights, these recipes and ideas will bring warmth and joy to your season.

There's a Maya Angelou quote that's always resonated with me. It goes, "people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel."

I find immense value in this quote, and I come back to it whenever I am unsure of what I am doing. As a chronic overthinker, I tend to overemphasize the smallest minutiae of life when, in reality, I should be looking at the big picture. We as humans make mistakes. But it's not our mistakes that define us, rather, it's how we treat the people around us and show up for those that we care about.

When I think of this quote, I think about my Friendsgiving dinner that I hosted recently. I spent hours cooking and baking several dishes, decorating my table with Thanksgiving decorations and setting up my apartment to receive my friends. I won't lie; while I was super excited about hosting a dinner in my apartment, I was also beyond anxious about every detail being perfect. No matter what I did, I felt like I wasn't doing enough. I worried about my pasta being overcooked, my salmon being too salty, my apartment not being tidy or organized enough...

Yet, at the end of the day, I was obsessing over theoreticals that weren't even crossing anyone's mind. What was truly important was being with my friends and sharing their company. For this reason, I'd like to add an addendum to the Angelou quote I mentioned, but this time, in regards to food: People will forget what you make, people will forget how you made it but people will never forget how your food made them feel.

Personally, I've always considered myself a foodie (here's a shameless plug to my Instagram food account @foodworldeats!). But to me, food has always been more than just the meal I eat, or the dish I cook: It's about bringing people together and forming memories.

Ever since I was a little kid, I've had such fond memories surrounded by food.

When visiting my grandparents in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, my memories began with excitement over trakinas: a sleeve of Brazilian chocolate-covered cookies that my grandparents would store high up in their cupboard for both my sister and I every time we arrived. Years later, my memories surrounding food continued to evoke feelings of familial comfort and joy, like every time my grandma would subtly ask me to sneak her a sweet from the kitchen (anything with sugar, because she was not picky, but her favorites were these Brazilian cookies called mentirinhas). I hold these memories dearly, and it's these foods that to this day, remind me of my grandma's laughter and my grandparents' overall attention to detail.

Memories with food also bring me back to first experiences. For example, I'm reminded of when one of my mom's great-aunts served me beet juice when I was visiting Tel Aviv, Israel for the first time as a kid. This aunt was already in her 90s at the time, and while I was definitely not the biggest fan of the juice, I'll never forget her infectious smile or the warmth she made us feel while hosting us.

I'm also reminded of my first time in Los Angeles, Calif., when my dad's elderly cousin insisted on making me an egg sandwich - despite her being partially blind and also in her 90s - because she feared that I'd go hungry. It's weird that these memories are from over a decade ago, yet to this day, I think about how these family members made me feel. They treated me with such care and compassion, and these feelings stick with me to this day.

Food also brings me back to special occasions and birthdays. On the last day of school throughout my childhood, my grandma would always take my sister and I to a diner (or even IHOP!) where I excitedly awaited a celebratory stack of pancakes. Further, on birthdays, I think back to the brigadeiro cake with a spider web design that my family orders annually. Or, if we were feeling a change in pace, we would order my dad's favorite - the Carvel ice cream cake with chocolate crunchies. (If we were feeling extra special, we would even ask for a custom-made photo design on top). All of this showcases how food - to me - is about celebrating: It's about coming together and enjoying each other's presences through the highs and lows of life.

I think this is why Thanksgiving is one of my favorite holidays. It's an excuse to gather around the table with family and friends and to talk the night away (it's also an annual celebration of my aunt's delicious sweet potato casserole with marshmallows).

In all seriousness, I've come to learn that it's the people around us that make these memories so special. Whether it's on Thanksgiving, on Friendsgiving or during any day in between, it's about coming together and being there for one another. Throughout my upbringing, so many people have impacted me through food. In this sense, I hope to do the same as I continue to cook and eat alongside my family and friends.

Because at the end of the day, who cares if the pasta is overcooked or if the salmon is too salty. It's not about that. It's about the people around us -it's about how we make them feel.

Gabriel Lesser is a graduate student from Westchester, N. Y. in the Department of Mental Health at the Bloomberg School of Public Health. His column explores his memories along with his current reflections and the lessons that he has learned.

"Acts of vandalism, intentionally damaging our campus, and hostility that targets a person's identity or views not only harm the affected individual but impact other members of our community and unsettle our shared foundation," the email wrote. "This is not free expression. Some of this amounts to criminal activity."

The email stated that it is unacceptable for individuals to be targeted, isolated or excluded based on religious, racial or ethnic association and linked to a University webpage providing information on free expression.

The email continued that an investigation into these protests is currently ongoing, and directed anyone who may need support following on-campus harassment to the Office of Institutional Equity, various well-being resources and the Johns Hopkins Employee Assistance Program.

The graffiti was observed on Nov. 20 on various campus structures, such as the pillars on the Breezeway and outside Gilman Hall, and included the phrases: "Free Gaza!", "Fuck JHPD" and "JHU is complicit."

In an interview with The News-Letter, Ryan Lu, a sophomore majoring in computer science, expressed his concerns over the graffiti.

"I think the protesters should seek for more peaceful ways to protest, instead of vandalizing the campus infrastructures, because this is basically forcing the workers to clean up the mess for them," he said.

In an email to The News-Letter, Hopkins Justice Collective (HJC), an advocacy organization that has been vocal in its support for Palestine and organized a protest early in the morning on Nov. 21 outside the house of President Ronald J. Daniels, responded to the University's protest concerns.

"HJC was not involved in the graffiti on campus, but we understand that acts of protest are a direct response to the University's role in perpetuating the genocide of Palestinians and its support for Israel's illegal occupation of Palestine," they wrote.

HJC then contrasted the destruction in Gaza with protests on campus, arguing that the disruption by protest to campus or President Daniels are minor inconveniences when compared with the destruction in Palestine.

"While the administration continues to prioritize property over people, we remind them that the real disruption is not caused by those speaking out, but by their own actions," they wrote. "The complicity of JHU in the ongoing genocide in Palestine - including through monetary support of violations of International Humanitarian Law and the Geneva Conventions - should be the only disruption that matters."

They concluded their email by stating that the University's commitment to free expression is not consistent with its restricting the location, time and method of protest. By categorizing recent forms of protest as disruptive, they argued, the University is diminishing student voices.

"If they [protest] in a very forceful and destructive way, like vandalizing our campus infrastructures. I don't think the administrators will listen to their opinions, because they are basically promoting hateful behavior," Ryan said.

Leo Qi contributed reporting to this article.

I recently got coffee with a professor and I was, of course, ranting about school, classes, friendships and family. With a voice thick with frustration, I said, "People act like they're entitled to your time and energy."

All she did was stare and smile. After a minute or two, she replied, quietly but firmly: "Maybe they are."

The 2020s have turned self-preservation into a cultural mantra. Social media continuously reminds us that we "don't owe anyone an explanation," and viral posts urge us to guard our time, energy and boundaries with the intensity of a nation protecting its borders. It's a seductive narrative: that we are autonomous and untouchable, existing solely to preserve our own peace. But what does a culture obsessed with what we don't owe each other lose in the process?

This isn't a call to martyrdom. I'm not asking anyone to erase boundaries or sacrifice yourself on the altar of obligation. The TikTok girlies aren't always wrong. I'm asking others to consider that the act of owing - of investing, of tethering yourself to another person - can be an act of liberation, not entrapment. Because at the end of the day, we do owe each other things. Not in a transactional sense where every favor demands a return, but in the quiet, human sense that living alongside one another requires care, community and love.

Owing is not a dirty word. To many, owing someone something feels like surrendering autonomy - like admitting a kind of debt that undermines our freedom. But historically, owing has been the glue of community - the framework of reciprocity that made survival possible. Somewhere along the way, we've swapped that mutual accountability for a rugged individualism that leaves us lonelier than ever.

I wonder how this shift has consequences: the coworker who assumes every kind gesture hides an agenda, the friend who dismisses your vulnerability as oversharing or the sibling who stops calling because they don't want to seem needy. Our insistence that we owe nothing to anyone turns into an existential arms race, where relationships become battles to see who can care less.

This refusal to owe actually makes us weaker. It isolates us from the very networks that sustain us. It makes it harder to recognize when others are offering something genuine, harder to extend grace when we inevitably falter. We're so desperate to protect ourselves from the vulnerability of connection that we forget vulnerability is the price of any connection worth having.

There's a certain bravery in reclaiming the idea of owing, in admitting that the act of giving yourself to others is not weakness but strength. To owe someone isn't to lose your autonomy; it's to make the deliberate choice to participate in the world. It's the friend who stays up late to listen, the partner who forgives the small annoyances, the stranger who offers kindness with no expectation of return.

We owe each other attention in a world designed to fragment it. We owe patience in a culture that rewards instant gratification. We owe each other grace: not because it's easy, but because it's the only thing that makes the weight of living bearable. Owing others is an act of resistance and liberation.

It's not glamorous to talk about obligation. It doesn't fit neatly into the aesthetic of radical self-care. But when we strip our relationships of obligation, we also strip them of depth. The question isn't whether we owe each other; it's whether we're brave enough to admit it.

Maybe what we owe each other isn't a burden but a truth: Our lives are fuller and more meaningful when they're intertwined with others. To owe isn't to lose freedom - it's to recognize our shared humanity and admit that none of us can do this alone. Real liberation comes from choosing connection, accepting its challenges and knowing it's the price of truly belonging to the world.

Aashi Mendpara is a senior from Orlando, Fla. majoring in Neuroscience and Medicine, Science and the Humanities. Her column shares reflections on her childhood, growing relationships, getting older and navigating life's changes.

The bus ride to the med campus will never cease to amaze me. I love seeing the city shift with the seasons, passing through different neighborhoods and watching new parts of town fly by outside the window. There's a word for this, and it's on the tip of my tongue... ugh, what is it? In Spanish, the term would be recorriendo la ciudad.

If you look up recorrer online, Google Translate will probably think you're speaking Portuguese and try to translate it to "resort" (not even close). The Cambridge Dictionary, however, will tell you that its translation in English is "to travel through." Though that translation does match the word's definition, it doesn't do the term justice.

If you break the word "recorrer" into its components, you can see "re" and "correr" (to run). In Spanish, we use the prefix "re" as "very." For example, estoy refeliz would mean the same thing as estoy super feliz: I'm super happy. In my mind, the act of "recorriendo" carries an element of excitement as you literally run around an area - exactly what the JHMI rides represent to me.

In the previous paragraph, I introduced two Spanish-isms (there is probably a technical term for this phenomenon, but I like this name). These are two entire concepts that can be found in one language but - for example - not in English. We do not have one word for "recorrer" in English, and we also don't have a prefix for "extremely" that we can tack on other words (just as we lack gendered nouns and 16 - yes, 16 - verb tenses for teachers to make us conjugate in school).

Growing up multilingual, I encountered quite a few of these "isms" in my different languages. For instance, in Portuguese, you wouldn't say, "I miss her." Instead, you would say: estou com saudades dela. I put the English saying into Google Translate which suggested that I use, eu sinto falta dela. This literally translates to something along the lines of: "I feel her lack of presence." Saudade has no direct English translation, but it represents the melancholy emptiness and longing you feel when you miss someone - that lack of presence.

On one of my recent JHMI rides, I sat next to a postdoctoral researcher from Hong Kong. She asked me for directions around the hospital and soon after we started chatting, our conversation shifted to our different languages and the similarities they share. She brought up that in Cantonese there is a word similar to "destiny" that describes the fate that two people happen to meet whether in a friendship, professional relationship or romantic sense.

I found the concept of jyun fan (yuanfen in Mandarin) beautiful. After reading a bit more about the word online, I learned that it has roots in Buddhism and describes a phenomenon similar to karma, where two people meeting "by chance" can lead to a longer-term relationship. It seems to be used as existing "between people," where you share a lot of it with someone you grew a strong relationship with after meeting circumstantially. After the bus ride, she and I parted ways, though I couldn't help but wonder about the jyun fan between us, and what significance that interaction held.

A few days later, I am still thinking about these "isms." Growing up, I put a lot of thought into identifying concepts that I could describe in some of my languages and not others, but I rarely considered what ideas were present in the languages I did not speak. This has planted a little seed of curiosity in my head (more specifically, on my "tongue") about what descriptions can be adopted and adapted from other languages.

A little more thought and another quick web search revealed words like chutzpah and mitdenken - two terms we cannot directly translate to English. Especially with today's globalization and ever-increasing time-space compression, what other words can we pick up from different tongues to better describe our world? To discover them, our best option is to interact - with new languages, new cultures and new people. This interaction is often intimidating: It involves overcoming cultural stigmas and fears of "the other." However, it can lead to wonderful new ideas and even words to describe things we all experience. After all, we are all people with many of the same feelings, challenges and joys.

Sara Kaufman is a sophomore from Fort Lauderdale, Fla. majoring in Biomedical Engineering. Her column focuses on the experiences she has had and lessons she has learned outside the classroom.

With the University's reputation as a rigorous STEM environment, it is no surprise that the campus features students with robust experiences in computer science. One such student is Andreas Jaramillo - a junior majoring in Computer Science (CS). In an interview with The News-Letter, Jaramillo discussed his journey so far and his next steps in the field.

Jaramillo initially never planned on studying computer science. Until his senior year of high school, Jaramillo wanted to explore aerospace engineering. As he was the leader of his high school's Technology Student Association club, however, he had the opportunity to participate in a software development event for the organization's technology competition. Jaramillo and his team built a language translation app, where one could take a picture of an object and the app would identify it. For Jaramillo, this action of building something from scratch motivated him to get involved in computer science.

He was also aware of the University's focus on connecting medicine and software. Since Hopkins was also one of the best schools he had the opportunity of attending, it was a rather clear decision for Jaramillo to come to Homewood Campus.

At Hopkins, Jaramillo has aimed to differentiate himself as a budding computer scientist. He highlighted two significant skills he has developed during his time here, the first involving creativity. More specifically, Jaramillo learned to be creative while solving unfamiliar and uncomfortable problems. The second skill he discussed was the ability to organize.

"Taking on several team-based projects and having some internship experience, organizing projects has definitely been the most useful skill. Everything in CS is so project-based: For example, using things like Agile development and Scrum, you learn how to delegate tasks and make these timelines. This is probably one of the most transferable skills you learn from your CS classes," Jaramillo said.

Outside the classroom, Jaramillo has already gathered experiences typical of a seasoned professional. He has had a few internships and work experiences all while organizing his plans for this upcoming summer.

"During the past two summers, I acquired internships at Amazon and Google doing application development, which was a great opportunity to get a taste of industry," he highlighted. "During the semester, I try to also build that experience through startups and research. I've had the pleasure to work with Evan Haas on CurveAssure, a Hopkins-based startup focusing on medical device software for issues like spine misalignment."

Jaramillo's impact at Hopkins extends beyond computer science. He has served as the professional development chair for the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers and co-founded the Hopkins Game Development Society (HGDS).

"I started HGDS because I knew there was always this community [of game developers] at Hopkins, but no one ever took that first step. When we started, we had 25 people attend our first meeting. Now we have several games being built by Hopkins students and connections with industry," he said. "This started out to build the community at Hopkins I knew was always there, and it blossomed to so much more."

He also mentioned those who helped him in the process; he gave credit to the three other officers who have also been the foundation of the club

Another topic of discussion was the University's program in Computer Science and their use of technology for students. Jaramillo believes that the University's emphasis on research as early as possible is extremely valuable. He added that it is a great way of getting into a certain industry and earning experience on the right starting foot.

"Having the opportunity to do research as early as freshman year is definitely something that makes Hopkins feel special. It's a difficult time to know what you want to do with your career and from my experience, it's just a matter of trying and seeing what you like," he said.

After graduation, Jaramillo is hoping to obtain a job in low-level graphics and graphics processing unit (GPU) programming. In five to 10 years, he is aiming for a more senior level role in the semiconductor industry or potentially centering his goals on a startup within the sector of innovation or GPUs and computer graphics.

He had some words to share for those aspiring to be just as skilled in this field.

"In terms of CS in general, I would just say try to pursue as much outside experience as you can. Those projects and experiences are going to be the most helpful, especially if you want to go into either research or industry. Also, try not to pigeonhole yourself into one area. Even if you really want to do just machine learning, starting off with application development is still a great way to start because there's certain things within CS that are relevant to other sectors," he stated. "Reach out to people, and especially people at Hopkins. They are always willing to lend you an ear."

That novel is Orbital by Samantha Harvey, a story tracking the lives of six astronauts as they hurtle through space for 16 days. Upon finishing the book, however, none of these descriptions came to mind. If I had only read page one of Orbital, then I may agree with the panel's decision and certainty in naming it the Booker Prize winner. But after reading the 206 pages proceeding after page one, I'm befuddled by how the panel could have made that decision, much less a unanimous one.

At first glance, Orbital is a hot first date. Harvey wields an obvious command of language, which she sustains throughout the novel to write sprawling and stunning sentences. But like the ditzy blonde or dumb jock archetype, upon spending more time with Orbital, I found it to lack any substance. It was just flowery language or a pretty face to look at. It's often the case that a work's language won't meet the task of what it's saying. For Harvey, however, it's the opposite. Her idea doesn't meet the task of her language - all bark, no bite; talking loud, not saying much.

The only conflict throughout the novel - if you can even call it that - was a typhoon that the astronauts observed approaching closer to land. It was larger than the meteorologists on Earth had anticipated, and after viewing the photos the astronauts sent back to Earth, they renamed it a super typhoon. The buildup to the super typhoon's touchdown could be called "subtle," but I believe that's granting it too much credit.

It was more like the grating, tinny nag of a fly somewhere in the room that you can't locate: It's always present, and the process of finding it goes on for way too long. But like a quick splat with a fly swatter, as soon as the super typhoon did touch land, the novel's fixation with it was over in an instant. If you mapped the novel's plot on Freytag's Pyramid, then the climax would be as dramatic as the highest point in Kansas.

The novel's true protagonist is space. Harvey admits this, stating in an interview, "I want to write a space pastoral." Even considering this, her six astronauts read as critically underdeveloped. As the panel grants, "everyone and no one is the subject." Emphasis should be placed on the "no one." For any story, it would be a daring maneuver to introduce six characters equally vying for attention - or lack thereof - yet Harvey throws caution to the wind, doing just that. While reading, I found it impossible to keep these characters straight in my mind when all I was given were intermittent mentions nestled between descriptions of space, daily tasks and sparse moments of characterization for the other characters.

By the end, each character was granted perhaps one or two facts that distinguished them from the rest: Shaun met his wife in a history class while they were learning about Las Meninas; Chie's mother died while she was in space (also, Chie likes making lists) and so on. The characters were static, two-dimensional and lacked complexity. While you could argue that this was intentional and aimed to highlight the insignificance of people compared to space, that could have been accomplished better by a tasteful omission of characterization rather than a half-baked attempt. I would rather have learned nothing about the characters, letting my mind consider the meaning of this absence or materializing my own content from it, than be given facts so few, small and insignificant that they feel insulting to the reader's integrity.

The reader learns less about the characters themselves than they learn about the tasks the characters have to complete every day on the space station. This only compounded the feeling that Orbital was like an overstuffed research paper on space - its author unwilling to skimp with any edits that may hide the work they put into reading source material for their project.

An ugly reaction takes place when you combine the novel's purple prose with its lack of action. You get a work of literature like cotton candy. It's sugary, it's sweet and it's nice in the moment, but ultimately, it's devoid of any sustenance. Like cotton candy hitting your tongue, it's gone in an instant.

Orbital is a novel that will not stick with me because there seems to be no larger message. As a reader, I believe larger messages must be tied to some tangible action, which Orbital lacked. With some exceptions, the theme has difficulty attaching itself to free-floating words that are written to sit there and look pretty. While reading Orbital, it felt nice to let Harvey's sentences wash over my mind like a hot shower; over time, however, more and more of that same hot water began to feel scalding, leaving the skin of my mind pruned and raw.

One of the concepts Orbital commonly employs is beauty. Through the lens of space, the novel questions what beauty is: something or the lack of something. After reading the novel and considering beauty without discussing space, I can define it as simplicity. If beauty is not fully in simplicity, then it exists somewhere in the space between simplicity and intricacy. Like yin and yang or highs and lows, one cannot exist without the other, and both are mutually defined by their comparison. Orbital is a purely intricate novel - at first, this may sound desirable. Truly, however, this is what keeps it from ever being beautiful, even if the language it overuses may be.

The night begins with L'enfant et les sortilèges - composed by Maurice Ravel - and a libretto by Colette. The orchestra starts with a solemn melody, and the character of the Child enters the stage. The rebellious boy begins screaming as Mama comes onto the stage and scolds him for not studying. That agitates the child even more, as he begins to rip and kick at all of the furniture in the room, screaming that he hates school and studying. While all of this is happening on the stage, the orchestra does a wonderful job to liven the scene, as they heighten their dynamics to enhance the mess and chaos that the Child is making.

As the Child is running around, the Tomcat spits toward the child, joined by the Armchair and the Bergére. The furniture all begins to come to life as they complain about not wanting to take care of the "wicked" child and that he has ruined everything for everyone. All of these settings were mixed with humorous acting, which added a nuanced touch that left the crowds in a laughing fit while watching.

This was followed by the appearance of the Grandfather Clock, Teapot, Porcelain Teacup and Fire. As the different characters emerge, they come in with joyful dance moves with funny vocal parts. The orchestra fills in the ambiance nicely by complementing the transition to this brighter section, which helps to articulate the emotions expressed in the section.

In this exchange, the Fire comes is one of the most prominent characters, played by Shinyeong Kim on the Friday, Nov. 22 performance. She has a super powerful voice as she dances, which creates a very elongated melodic line, with a humorous touch as she yells "Beware!" to the Child. She threatens to burn him if he does not become a better person, and the child runs around, saying he is afraid.

In an interview with The News-Letter, Kim said the preparation for this opera and her role began months ago.

"Right after the spring semester of 2024 ended, I received an email from Peabody Opera Theater," Kim said. "I had to submit my audition video by early July, [so] I started preparing the aria of Le feu (The Fire). It was a new piece for me at that time, which is why I was so busy during the summer break. A month later, I received another email saying I had been offered the role of Fire! It was such an honor, and I was so happy."

Kim also said she acquired a lot of knowledge from this experience, as it offered her insight into working on a big stage and singing solo alongside an orchestra.

"I usually try not to worry about whether the hall is large or small. I just focused on my body, breathing and creating good resonance. However, I paid a lot of attention to making my pronunciation as precise as possible," Kim said. "In a large hall, if I don't concentrate carefully on my pronunciation, the audience might not understand what I'm saying. [With the orchestra], the Maestro explained that it takes a little time for the orchestra's sound to reach the stage. I learned that I must trust the maestro over my own ear."

Soon after, the Princess appears out of the torn storybook that the Child had destroyed earlier. The Princess is someone that the Child thinks of fondly, which teaches him that he should not have demolished the book. The child says he will protect her, and as he falls asleep, the Princess goes away, and the Child is seen weeping on the stage.

As the Child wakes up, he comes back to reality and is bombarded with teachers, students and textbooks. This part of the play was very comical: The teacher and students yell at the Child about math while demanding answers to the problem, which causes the Child to be distressed.

The scene transitions as the Child holds his head while looking stressed, which is supported by a beautiful flute melody that emulates the sad and sulking atmosphere. The Child is now in the garden to escape all of the chaos from inside, but it follows him as the Trees, Dragonfly and Nightingale all come to life and call the child "wicked."

The opera reaches the climax when the Squirrel gets hurt, and the Child actually helps by dressing the wound. In an unfortunate turn, the Child also falls and bleeds, but the animals don't initially know how to save him. They all start saying "Mama," hoping it will wake the Child up, and he eventually does. The animals begin to act friendly towards the child, and they all harmonize as the child is reunited with Mama.

"I really loved the ending scene of the opera," Kim said. "Especially [because] all the conflicts are resolved in this scene, and all the cast members are on stage, showing their characters at the same time. The entire cast formed a circle, and [the Child] makes eye contact with each of the characters in order. The performance finally ends with happiness."

The Classical Style: an Opera (of sorts) was a humorous piece from the very beginning. Jeremy Denk wrote the libretto for this opera and described the music for this piece live, where he exclaimed, "Listen with an open mind" as the opera began. The first three characters that appear are composers Joseph Haydn, Ludwig van Beethoven and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, and they roast each other. Haydn tells Beethoven that greatness takes effort and grills Mozart in the film about himself with exasperation that makes the audience laugh. These interactions really expressed the lighthearted type of humor that Denk enjoys.

The opera intertwines these old composers with modern references to Hollywood and taxes, which makes the situation more relatable to our current lives. The characters mention that The New York Times referenced classical music as dead, orchestra sales are dropping and the audience that comes to the concerts is all old. The opera does a great job bringing in modern concerns of classical music and bringing it to the stage by having the characters express those issues through their role.

Trying to discover how classical music can be revived again, the opera delves into a book written by Charles Rosen that describes how great the three composers are and how classical music is a "reconciliation of conflicting ideals," which is sung in a beautiful, prominent tonality. The Bartender talks about resolutions in music and how everyone wants the Dominant chord to resolve in the music but that the chord is never-ending. This whole section is filled with singing, with the Dominant chord saying, "Look at me," which makes the audience, especially musicians, laugh and understand the connotation.

Other chords are also introduced, such as the Tonic Chord and Subdominant Chord. The opera talks about the relationship between the Dominant and Tonic chord, paralleling it to relationships in real life, as the dominant chord most often goes to the tonic. Then, it moves on to describe the circle of fifths and how Mozart was one of the first composers to use the relationship outlined in the circle. This is connected to Mozart's famous piece, Don Giovanni, and how emotionally strong the piece is.

By describing how prominent the music of the classical composers is to the development of music over the years while creating a jovial atmosphere, the writers and performers made it possible for the audience to enjoy the opera while learning about classical music. The opera continues by mentioning how many times Beethoven has been performed and how classical music is actively involved in our daily lives.

As the composers continue on their journey to find Charles Rosen, who is supposed to give them answers to prevent the decline of classical music in our modern world, the Tristan Chord appears. This chord is described as the saddest of all chords, which emulates the fear for the future of classical music. Eventually, the Tonic, Dominant and Subdominant chords come together and appreciate each other's company, showing that musicians will stay together in order to keep classical music alive.

The opera ends with the composers meeting Charles Rosen and emphasizing their desires for classical music to be relevant to the people in the 21st century, and the cast all come together to take their final courteous bows, which garner many shouts of joy from the audience.

Even if time feels tight, one simple way to brighten your mood and keep the holiday spirit alive is by creating a festive vibe in your room. It's an easy, comforting way to remind yourself that the season is still filled with warmth and magic. Here are five ways to bring the holiday vibe into your rooms.

Christmas lights

There's something about stringing up lights that instantly makes a space feel cozier. For me, it's the easiest way to set the mood - whether I'm unwinding after a long day or gearing up for a late-night study session. Replacing those harsh overhead lights with something softer transforms the vibe, making it feel more like a snug winter café than a lifeless classroom.

In my dorm, I have string lights stretching across one wall, and honestly, they make such a difference. On cold, dark evenings, it feels like my little escape. You could try color-changing LED lights for a playful twist, or if you prefer something more subtle, place delicate twinkle lights in a jar for a charming touch.

Christmas music

Christmas music is such a simple and delightful way to set the holiday tone. Take some time to create a few playlists that match your mood. You could make one with all the Christmas classics - perfect as background music while you tidy up, make a cup of hot cocoa or even while walking to class. It's an effortless way to sprinkle a bit of holiday magic into your day. If you're not always in the mood for super cheery tunes, try switching to some chill Christmas jazz (here's my 11-hour playlist). Personally, I love listening to Laufey's soft, angelic voice paired with piano - it's great for relaxing after a long day or keeping the atmosphere mellow during a study session.

Music really can shift the energy in a room, especially when stress starts to creep in. Softer holiday tunes are perfect for calming your nerves and taking a breather. And if you're knee-deep in finals prep, Christmas Lofi music (this 15-hour playlist) is definitely worth a try. The wordless, soothing beats are an ideal backdrop for focusing in a quiet spot with a hot latte in hand - even if you're running on minimal sleep. It's a nice way to remind yourself the holidays are coming soon, and all the effort you're putting in now will make the celebrations that much sweeter.

Christmas scents

Nothing says "holidays" quite like cozy, nostalgic scents. For me, it's an instant mood booster. A Glade-scented wall plug-in is an easy go-to - I love options like a spiced apple or vanilla cappuccino. If you're more of a candle person, a trip to Bath & Body Works is basically a holiday tradition. I'm obsessed with their Sugared Snickerdoodle and Winter Candy Apple scents.

It's amazing how scents can transport you. Even if you're away from home, these scents have a magical way of bringing all those warm holiday memories right into your room. So whether it's a plug-in, candle or wax melt, there's no better way to turn your space into a cozy winter wonderland.

Christmas decor

Decorating your room for the holidays isn't just about creating a festive vibe - it's also about making the space feel personal and meaningful. Maybe add a hanging door wreath to welcome that holiday spirit the moment you walk in. Printing out pictures of friends and family and arranging them around your space adds a warm, nostalgic touch. You can even try following a YouTube video to craft homemade paper snowflakes or stick on some window decals that embrace the feeling of a winter wonderland. Another easy DIY is filling glass jars with colorful ornaments for an easy, budget-friendly decoration that doubles as an amazing centerpiece. And, of course, a mini Christmas tree is the perfect finishing touch to tie everything together!

Holiday treats

And finally, one of the best ways to remind yourself that the holidays are just around the corner is by embracing the festive spirit through the little things you enjoy - like holiday treats! Stock up on some Swiss Miss hot chocolate mix and a couple of cute holiday mugs from Target to make your evenings feel extra cozy. Or, gather your friends and bake a warm batch of Pillsbury Christmas cookies.

It's those small, simple moments that make the biggest difference. Whether you're sipping cocoa, sharing cookies or just taking a second to bask in the holiday glow, these little reminders can help you slow down, breathe and truly soak up the festive vibes - even during the busiest weeks of finals season.

Even something as simple as a festive light-up decoration can add so much warmth. For me, it's not just about how it looks - it's about how it makes me feel. The soft glow, chill music and comforting cinnamon scent give me a moment to pause and breathe. It's as if the lights, candles and blankets are quietly telling me, "Hey, it's okay to slow down and savor this moment."

Tuesday, 11/26

7 a.m. GMT: Arrive at Heathrow Airport, clear customs and collect luggage from baggage claim.
8-9 a.m.: Take the Heathrow Express to Paddington Station; then take a taxi to the hotel.
9-10:15 a.m.: Store luggage at the hotel, ask for early check-in and grab a light bite.
10:15-10:30 a.m.: Walk to the British Museum.
10:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.: Explore the British Museum and have lunch.

3-4:30 p.m.: Visit Buckingham Palace, St. James' Park and Victoria Memorial Garden.

4:30-5:30 p.m.: Explore Westminster Bridge, London Eye and Big Ben for photos.

5:30 - 6:30 p.m.: Return using the Northern Line to the hotel to rest.

6:30-8:00 p.m.: Have dinner at a restaurant near the hotel.

A week before my family vacation to London, I carefully crafted a detailed itinerary on my Notes app down to the minute. Tuesday, Nov. 26 looked seamless on paper -a flawless flow from Heathrow to Paddington, from the British Museum to Buckingham Palace, and on to the London Eye and Big Ben. With my mother and two younger siblings in tow, I envisioned a trip where every destination was ticked off like clockwork. But as the saying goes, life is what happens when you're busy making other plans.

The trip started to unravel the moment we landed. Heathrow was a maze, and by the time we cleared customs and gathered our luggage, it was already close to 8 a.m. - nearly half an hour later than I'd anticipated. Then came the Heathrow Express to Paddington, which - while efficient - didn't account for our collective exhaustion. My siblings were cranky, my mom looked drained and I was glued to my phone, checking the clock and recalculating our arrival time at the hotel. The metro ride from Paddington to St. Pancras, then the walk in the cold from St. Pancras to our hotel made us even more fatigued.

By the time we dropped off our luggage, I realized we were hopelessly behind schedule. I tried to push us forward - "We need to be at the British Museum in ten minutes for our reservation!" - knowing very well that we were still adjusting to jet lag.

That's when my mom put her foot down. "No Buckingham Palace today," she said, "We all need to rest. There's no point dragging everyone around if no one is enjoying it."

Her words stung at first. I had planned this trip so carefully - how could she just scrap one of the highlights of the day? But as I looked at my siblings slumped over their sandwiches and felt my own fatigue creeping in, I knew she was right. Buckingham Palace, St. James's Park and Victoria Memorial Garden were officially off the itinerary. Instead, we headed back to the hotel, skipping the grandeur of royal landmarks for a much-needed break.

That evening, I took some time to myself. This was supposed to be a vacation - a chance to bond with my family, not a military operation. The stress I had created for myself by sticking to the itinerary had robbed me of the joy of experiencing London. My mom must have noticed the tension in my shoulders as she gently said, "We don't have to do everything. Let's just enjoy the moments we can."

The next morning, I slowed down. Instead of cramming our day with attractions, we focused on just one or two destinations. We woke up before twilight and went to the City of Love: Paris. At the Louvre, I gave myself permission to linger in front of paintings and sculptures, hieroglyphs and metalwork. My siblings were fascinated by the Egyptian artifacts. We even paused to people-watch while waiting in line to see La Joconde up close, sharing laughs about tourists snapping dramatic selfies.

That afternoon, we boarded the high-speed train back to London. It turned into one of the most memorable parts of the trip - the blur of the countryside, the naps in between and the snacks from the café car. I put away my phone and just enjoyed the ride.

The shift in mindset transformed the rest of our trip. In Cambridge, we strolled through the cobblestone streets at a leisurely pace, stopping at bookstores and souvenir shops. We went punting on the River Cam just as the sun began to set. The water reflected the pastel hues of the sky, and we asked the punting guide a million questions. He directed us to Jupiter, talked about each passing university building and bridge and sang a song for us. It was simple, unhurried and perfect.

By letting go of the rigid schedule, I began to truly experience the culture around me. I savored the buttery croissants in Paris without worrying about the next stop. I admired the intricate details of medieval churches in Cambridge. But the best part was connecting with my family in ways I didn't expect - laughing at my mom's hilarious commentary on quirky tour guides, swapping stories over meals and seeing my siblings' eyes light up when they stumbled on something new.

A vacation isn't about checking off a list of attractions or another micromanagement: It's about the moments that stay with you long after the trip ends. The best experiences often come when you leave room for spontaneity. And as I learned to let go, I found something better than a perfect itinerary: a vacation that truly felt like one.

Linda Huang is a freshman from Rockville, Md. majoring in Biomedical Engineering. Her column celebrates growth and emotions that define young adulthood, inviting readers to live authentically.

Wednesday, Nov. 6, 9:25 a.m. Leakin Hall, Peabody Institute. A studio that had once been filled with dynamic pulses of expectant energy had now been reduced to a foreboding hush. I caught myself avoiding the despondent stares of my peers as I walked apprehensively to my spot. Drafts of how I would one day illustrate where I was when "it" happened flooded my head. Within these floods, I attempted to search for a polished response to indicate my dissidence, but everything felt too forced. In the end, I had abandoned my grand gesture of outrage and took a seat among the mass of wary bodies.

Peabody responded to the results of the election exactly how you would imagine us to. The events that took place in my dance class on that Wednesday morning would've absolutely been broadcast on Fox News with some sort of caption referencing liberals, snowflakes and tears. Scenes of sobs and embraces ensued as our professors delivered us their words of assurance that they came armed with.

Flash-forward to a week later, I'm instructed that I will be collaboratively choreographing a self-reflective dance piece about how our lived experiences and sociopolitical factors shape our social realities in the aftermath of the election. Upon hearing this, I became filled with unease. I have never choreographed a piece that explicitly political before, so why am I starting now? Why is activism expected out of artists?

Since the moment I started training in dance pre-professionally, I was told that being an activist is inherent to being an artist. Historically, art has been at the forefront of change, amplifying experiences and engaging communities. Art is sometimes truly the only way to start a conversation with hostile communities that hold "traditional" values. The work can be passed off as a legitimate expression of art rather than a political statement. Audiences are encouraged to envision alternative futures without the constraints of existing limitations; physical protests are oftentimes too visible for those unreceptive to change.

We understand the key role that artists have to play towards change, yet, it is rare you'll ever hear an artist refer to themself as an activist. Art at its base level is creative expression. So-called "artivists" feel external pressure to adhere to social agendas at the expense of their creative freedom. This pressure can potentially lead to superficial activism. Art that attempts to garner political approval is unlikely to be as impactful as art or politics alone. If activism is performed for social capital or because it is "right," is it truly activism? Co-opting social movements for personal gain is never ethical, and art is not exempt from this rule.

At its essence, art interacts with human nature in a way that cannot be policed by social and political agendas. Agendas tend to oversimplify unsettled issues for practicality's sake, and art defies practicalities by placing special emphasis on expression, emotion and the extraordinary over functionality or efficiency. Life demands tangible results and as a challenge to these structures, art thrives in the abstraction and ambiguity between the structures that govern everyday existence. For this reason, art can be viewed as political because as it mirrors life - it catches glimpses of political implications in its background.

However, art alone doesn't create change but rather communicates unrest, which is the first step towards measurable change. Projecting activism onto artists is shifting the responsibilities belonging to individuals and institutions to engage in activism themselves. It's far too easy to rely on artists to lead the change, and it furthers the narrative that activism is the responsibility of others and not a collective effort.

It is our responsibility as consumers of art to live as a form of defiance. The most radical action we can take is to love and live, even when we are afraid. The art will follow soon thereafter. Engage in community, give what you can and ask for what you need. Preserve knowledge and learn from your elders. Read everything that you can; watch the watchmen. Learn from the ambiguity of art; you don't have to organize all of your efforts as a response - just live.

Live beautifully, live heinously. Live in exhilaration, live in stagnancy. Just live. Living is an act of resistance that defies forces that aim to diminish our hope and existence. Existing resists erasure.

So I'll complete my final, but my work is far from done.

Angelina Miller is a sophomore from Ellington, Conn. majoring in Dance at the Peabody Institute.

"He definitely deserved this more than her."

On March 20, 2024, Hopkins regular decision admissions came out. I went to a fairly competitive high school where everyone strives to be the best in almost every possible aspect. Whether it was athletics, clubs or test scores, everything was a race to first place. When my guidance counselor suggested that I apply to Hopkins, I laughed. I'm usually a pretty optimistic person, but, with Hopkins's having a 8% acceptance rate and my being at a school of dozens of overqualified people, I knew I needed to keep my feet down on earth and be realistic. Nonetheless, I figured there was no harm in at least trying. As I opened my email and clicked on the link to my portal, my phone blew up with confetti. I froze. The guys behind me whispered, as if they were trying to wrap their heads around how I could possibly be more qualified than the person who cheated on nearly every test.

Like I said, I am usually a pretty optimistic person. When President Joe Biden announced that he would step down from the presidential race in July and Kamala Harris was formally chosen as Democratic nominee, I thought to myself, "This is it; we might finally have a female president." I don't remember the 2016 election very well as I was only ten years old, but I do remember the morning I found out the results. I walked downstairs, and my dad was facing the television displaying the projected winner of the election: Donald Trump. He was disappointed. I didn't understand. Hillary Clinton won the popular vote; therefore, more people clearly wanted her, so why didn't she win?

As young girls, we are taught that we can do anything that a man can do. We are strong, powerful forces of nature, so to speak. We are shown inspirational images from 20th-century women's rights movements and taught about women's pivotal accomplishments throughout history. The idea was that we, as a society, would only continue to move forward. As Kamala Harris would say throughout her campaign, "We are not going back." In the battle between someone who has worked in all three branches of government versus someone who was found guilty on 34 felony counts, committed acts of sexual assault and has an overall disdain for minority groups, I thought the U.S. would make the correct choice. I had hoped.

As I opened my phone to check the election results the morning of Nov. 6, I felt my stomach drop. We reached the part of the rollercoaster where the car stops and begins to go through the ride again but backwards. I began to scroll through social media posts and saw classmates from my high school reposting Trump's "victory," people celebrating, people crying. I got a text from my mom saying, "I'm sorry. I wanted her to win so much, for your future." This message lingered in my mind; this was the first election after which I had to sit down and truly think about my future in this country. What do these results mean for women in the U.S.?

One in five women experience some sort of actual or attempted sexual violence during their lifetime. The gender wage gap is roughly 16%, with women earning 84 cents for every dollar earned by a man. Women make up 28.2% of seats in Congress, 31.9% of seats in statewide elected offices, 32.8% of seats in state legislatures and the list goes on. These percentages are especially lower for more underrepresented groups - such as women of color, women with disabilities and women that are part of the LGBTQ+ community. The fight towards success is hard, and the fight towards respect is even harder.

After this election, I believe that men will become more vocal and that misogyny will become more prevalent. The men who have always believed that they are superior will just be louder because now their ideals have the backing of Trump and his supporters. The unfortunate part is that obscene statements about women have already started coming to light, and Trump's second term hasn't even begun. As I scroll through X, formally Twitter, I see dozens of men saying, "Your body, my choice." We are back to square one. We now live in a society where men feel more comfortable openly objectifying women and saying these things. Meanwhile, the person who will take office in 42 days condones this behavior.

Often, when I find myself disagreeing with people on a vast array of topics, the argument ends with "I agree to disagree," and we move on; everyone is entitled to their own beliefs. Now, I can no longer "agree to disagree." This isn't a discussion about which musical artist or ice cream flavor is the best; this isn't even a discussion about politics. Human rights are not political. I struggle to understand how someone can support such a malicious agenda, described in Project 2025. I struggle to understand why many people refuse to learn more. I struggle to understand why many people don't care, why they chose buying potentially cheaper houses or cheaper gas over the quality of life of the millions of women in the United States.

When I filled out my ballot in October, I did so with fear for my future, fear for the futures of millions of women, fear for the future of this country. Yet, society has once again shown young girls that, no matter what women do and how qualified they are, it doesn't matter; a man is still more likely to get chosen. We are back to square one, and the fight will be harder than ever.

Giuliana Opris is a freshman from Long Island, N.Y. studying Film and Media Studies and Political Science.

10. Los Angeles Chargers

After finishing last season with a 5-12 record and then losing an immense amount of talent in the off-season, I did not have much faith in this team and roster. However, Jim Harbaugh has instilled a fantastic new culture and has had an invaluable impact on this team thus far. The Chargers are currently 8-4, with quality wins over the Denver Broncos, Cincinnati Bengals and Atlanta Falcons.

Despite their mediocre offense, which ranks 14th or lower in every major offensive statistic, their defense has been stellar. They are currently top 3 in red zone defense, third down defense, and scoring defense, which means this team is giving up the fewest touchdowns in the league. If the Chargers can beat the Kansas City Chiefs on Sunday Night Football, it will show how elite their defense truly is, and that their offense can do just enough to win big games.

9. Denver Broncos

After beginning the season 0-2, the Broncos have found their rhythm and are now 8-5. Although the only current playoff team they have defeated are the Falcons, the Broncos were a blocked field goal away from beating the undefeated Chiefs.

However, since that loss the team is 3-0 and is averaging 36 points per game over the stretch! Furthermore, this defense is still great as they rank 9th in defense for opponent yards per game and 3rd in red zone scoring defense. Even though they currently have the 21st ranked offense when it comes to yards per game. It is likely to improve if the last three games are any indication of their potential. If the Broncos can win two of their final four games, I believe they will likely make the playoffs.

8. Green Bay Packers

The Packers are likely in the most unfortunate position currently in the NFL. Even though they are 9-4, which would be good for first in four other divisions, they are currently sitting at third in the NFC North. Despite this, the Packers are top 10 in passing, rushing, and scoring offense, as well as an sporting a top 10 defense.

Although this team looks great on paper, I cannot rank them above any of the teams ahead of them as they have only beaten two teams with winning records, being the Arizona Cardinals and Houston Texans. They have lost to all the teams in the NFC with better records than them: the Philadelphia Eagles, Detroit Lions and Minnesota Vikings.

7. Baltimore Ravens

It saddens me to put the Ravens this low as just three weeks they were in my top 3 teams. I believe out of every team in this 5-10 range, this team has the greatest potential. However, losing to inferior opponents, such as the Cleveland Browns and Las Vegas Raiders, has led this team to an undesired 8-5 start, which is second in their division to the 9-3 Pittsburgh Steelers.

With only 4 games left on their schedule, if they want to host a home playoff game they essentially must win out and have the Steelers lose a game or two. Justin Tucker, the man labelled by some as the "GOAT" kicker, has cost them many games this year, notably against the Steelers and Eagles. Furthermore, their defense has not been good as they are currently 23rd in defense for points per game, as well as 31st in passing defense.

Even through all of these woes, Lamar Jackson is having his best season since his iconic 2019 MVP campaign, and Derrick Henry is having a career resurgence as well in John Harbaugh and Todd Monken's offense. Could these two stars lead the Ravens to a division title and a Super Bowl? I believe so, but they must stop shooting themselves in the foot.

6. Minnesota Vikings

Is it a bit insane to say that the Minnesota Vikings are the most underrated team in the NFL, despite being 10-2? Perhaps, but this team is not getting their proper recognition from the media. While I understand that their wins over teams such as the New York Jets, Indianapolis Colts, Jacksonville Jaguars, Tennesse Titans and New York Giants are nothing to write home about, this team is still beating the teams in front of them.

Furthermore, they have wins over two teams in the current playoff picture, being the Packers and Texans, and played a very competitive game against the Lions. Although they have not beaten any of the top dogs of the league, they are beating the opponents in front of them. Furthermore, their offense is ranked 13th in yards per game and defense is ranked 12th, and this team still has the best receiver in the league, Justin Jefferson.

5. Pittsburgh Steelers

Do the Pittsburgh Steelers finally have an offense? After scoring 44 points against the Cincinnati Bengals, a scoring feat they hadn't achieved since 2018, it's safe to say they finally have an offense. This team is 5-1 since Russell Wilson as a starter, and in 6 games with the team, Wilson has 10 TDs to only 3 INTs, a 104 passer rating, and over 1600 passing yards.

Furthermore, this team is currently 9-3, with a vital win against the Ravens which could lead them to win this division. This team has also beaten current playoff teams in the Falcons, Broncos, Chargers and Commanders. Although some may argue they won while these teams were not playing at their best, it is nonetheless impressive. The Steelers defense is amazing, as always, currently ranking 6th in defense for points and yards per game; their offense isn't too shabby either as they are 14th in offensive yards per game. While they have a gauntlet of a schedule in their final few weeks, if this team can win 3 of the games, I believe they will win their division and be a dangerous team come playoff time.

4. Kansas City Chiefs

This team is likely the most polarizing 11-1 team of all time. The stats back this up as exactly 34 NFL teams have begun 11-1 since 1970, and out of all of those teams, the Chiefs point differential ranks dead last at only +54. Furthermore, the Chiefs have only won 2 games by more than 1 score, being the 26-13 win against the Saints and the 28-18 win against the 49ers. They have let inferior opponents hang around, such as the Buccaneers, Panthers, and the Raiders, twice.

Despite this, the Chiefs have beaten current playoff teams: the Ravens, Chargers, Falcons and Broncos. Even if all of these games were decided by one score, the Chiefs still have found ways to win. Their defense remains elite as they are 8th in total defense, while their offense is simply middle of the pack, ranking 15th in yards per game. Even though many may claim this team to be "fraudulent" given their loss to the Buffalo Bills, they have lost to the Bills in the regular season every year since 2021. Additionally, this loss may serve as a wake-up call to play better. Despite all of the stats, this team is still the reigning back-to-back Super Bowl Champions, and come January and February, I would still pick them over any other team.

3. Philadelphia Eagles

Since beginning 2-2, the Eagles have gone 8-0, including their most impressive win of the season against the Ravens. In the past 3 weeks, the Eagles have beaten the Commanders, placing them in control of the NFC East, before taking on and beating the favored Ravens in a game that was wrapped up midway through the 4th quarter. The Eagles are top 5 in both total offense and defense, being ranked 3rd and 1st respectively in yards per game. This defense has been especially impressive as they have held prolific offenses such as the Bengals, Commanders and Ravens all under 20 points.

The most points they've allowed in this 8 game winning streak is 23, and are allowing only 15.5 points during this period. Furthermore, Saquon Barkley has been a godsend for this team, currently ranking 2nd in MVP odds as a running back! He currently has nearly 1500 rushing yards and 11 TDs, putting him on track to finish with 2000 yards this season. Overall, the Eagles appear to be the Lions number 1 threat to make the Super Bowl and should be considered extremely dangerous.

2. Buffalo Bills

Despite major off-season free agent losses, the Bills are looking stronger than ever. Quarterback Josh Allen has willed this good, but not great, roster to a fantastic 10-2 record, clinching their division this past Sunday. The Bills have become accustomed to blowing teams out, sporting a point differential of +131, second only to the Lions.

They are dominating games on both sides of the ball, ranking 2nd in scoring offense and 6th in scoring defense. Josh Allen is currently the MVP favorite and has been playing fantastic football all season long. Their game in a few weeks against the Lions will give us a glimpse into their Super Bowl potential, and should be absolute cinema.

1. Detroit Lions

What is left to say about the Lions? They have consistently displayed throughout the regular season that they are the best team, with their sole loss coming against the Buccaneers in Week 2. The Lions have made light work of every team that they've faced, made evident by their league leading +183 point differential. They are winning games on average by nearly 15 points, placing them just outside the top 25 all time.

This team is currently 2nd in total offensive yards per game and 2nd in scoring offense, sitting top 5 in every defensive category besides total defense and passing defense. The Lions are the current odds on favorite to win Super Bowl LIX for the first time in franchise history. Given this, it's understandable for many to consider this season a Super Bowl or bust for the team.

Football: W (17 - 14)

The NCAA playoffs are here! Our football team faced off against the #12 Grove City Wolverines at Homewood Field in the second round. After an early season falter against Salisbury, the Blue Jays gained momentum and looked to build on their seven game winning streak.

The Jays started out hot by establishing the running game, allowing them to march down the field and score an opening possession touchdown. The game then descended into a defensive battle, a surprise given the high-octane Wolverine offense has averaged 43 points per game this season. Nevertheless, Hopkins was stout and unforgiving, limiting Grove City to only 260 yards on the day (their second worst performance of the season).

The teams traded punts for large stretches of the game until midway through the third quarter. Following an important defensive stop on fourth down, the Blue Jays executed a 64 yard drive that ended with a field goal, putting them up 10-0. Hopkins pushed for more, managing to increase the lead to 17 midway through the final period with a touchdown pass from quarterback James Rinello to wide receiver, EJ Talarico.

Just when the game seemed all but over, Grove City managed a response, scoring a touchdown on the ensuing drive, followed by a Hopkins punt being blocked and returned for a TD. All of a sudden the game was suddenly within three points, only for the situation to worsen as Rinello threw an interception with two minutes left. Grove City then proceeded to make a late push, moving downfield to the 20 yard line, however a missed field goal sealed the game for Hopkins.

With the win, the Blue Jays have advanced to the next round of the playoffs and are set to face off against #9 DePauw in Indiana on Dec. 7 for a chance at the quarterfinals.

Women's Volleyball: W (3 - 0), W (3 - 0), W (3 - 0), W (3 - 2), L (2 - 3)

The volleyball team looked to continue their dominant season into the NCAA tournament. Their first matchup came up against Bridgewater State as the top seed in the group, as the Blue Jays sought to reach a milestone 30 season wins for just the third time in school history. Hopkins dominated the matchup, winning both of the first two sets, 25 - 9, and the third set 25 - 12.

The next match came against Carnegie Mellon on the next day. While the match was closer than Bridgewater State, Hopkins still managed to win in straight sets. Despite the closer set scores than the previous match: 25 - 17, 25 - 23, 25 - 20, the Blue Jays dominated in hit % with the closest set percentagewise being the second (0.433 to 0.297 in favor of Hopkins).

The previous two wins cemented Hopkins' spot in the Regional Championship with a matchup against #20 Ithaca. This was by far the closest matchup of the tournament - the largest margin was in the first set that Hopkins won 25 - 20. The second and third sets were decided by only 2 and 3 points, respectively, however Hopkins managed to clinch the match in straight sets once again, capping off a dominant tournament run.

Finally, the team came up against #7 Wisconsin-Oshkosh in the quarterfinals of the NCAA tournament. The quarterfinals have historically been a challenge for the Blue Jays, having sent them home the last two years… but no longer. The match was a closely fought battle with both teams trading sets back and forth until the fifth and final. Hopkins were able to reach the requisite 15 points, vanquishing their demons and advancing to the next round where they faced off against Wisconsin-Whitewater for a shot at the championship.

Unfortunately, this would be where the tournament run would conclude as the Blue Jays lost in a five-set thriller. After trading the first four sets back and forth, they entered the final stretch with the hope of a berth in the National Championship. Spoilers on the day, Whitewater would prove just a bit too good, finishing on a 12 - 5 run after starting close at 3-2 that would ultimately seal the match.

While the season didn't end in the way the team had hoped, it was nonetheless historical as they recorded the second most wins in school history, an impressive feat!

Men's Basketball: W (84 - 69), L (59 - 76), L (74 - 78), W (79 - 75)

The basketball season is now officially back in the swing of things, and the Men's team have played in a slew of games.

Hopkins travelled to Michigan to take part in the Great Lakes Invitational and immediately were faced up against #3 John Carroll University, a difficult task for the Jays. Nevertheless, Hopkins came out with guns blazing as they outscored the Blue Streaks 40 - 25 in the first half. They wouldn't relent going into the second half either, maintaining their lead en route to an 84 - 69 win, their first against a top-5 opponent since 2020. Guard John Windley led the way with an impressive 23 points and 8 assists, backed up by Jeb Williams and Brian Johansson who both scored in double digits.

Unfortunately, the team faltered in their final game of the invitational in a 59 - 76 loss against Wisconsin La Crosse. They returned to Baltimore to take on Eastern University, however the skid continued in a close loss to the Eagles in spite of a spirited late game rally.

Coming up against the Hood College Blazers, it initially looked like the losing may continue for the Blue Jays. Falling behind 43 - 29 at the end of the first half, the team had difficulty keeping up with the Blazers. A second half rally saw Hopkins draw level with just two minutes left in the game, giving hope to a game that seemed all but lost. 20 point games from both Brian Johansson and John Windley, as well as some crucial free throws from Charlie Jackson, saw the Blue Jays over the line in a close 79-75 win.

Hopkins will be back in action this Saturday, Dec. 7 as they head to Pennsylvania to take on the Swarthmore Garnets, looking to improve their record in conference play.

Two weeks into starting college, I joined my first lab, a number of student clubs and enrolled in many pre-med classes. As a first generation student, it was safe to say I was led in a blind eye, never knowing which step was the right one. As long as I moved forward and kept on doing what I was doing, that was all that mattered.

This fall commenced two full years of my research experiences at Hopkins, having the immense privilege to be mentored by physicians and expanding vastly on my clinical and medical knowledge. It has been the largest blessing and an opportunity I never take for granted.

From not even knowing what radiation oncology was to presenting my published research at the largest national radiation oncology conference, I admit I've come a long way. However, accomplishments aside, I've also spent most of my Friday nights and weekends chart-reviewing my first two years of college. It's only through my roommate where I get caught up on the latest news on frat parties. But as my high school chemistry teacher Mr. Adams famously said: Hard work plus sacrifice equals success. His words have lived with me for years as I often remind myself of my motivation.

But in thinking, has sacrificing much of my free time and working hard led me to more than just material success? When I am not working hard, does this make me an unsuccessful person?

This summer, I spent a week in my hometown in China. I was at the very tail end of my research, only having a few more patients to go and I was the most determined I had ever been to finish my project completely. I wanted so badly to prove my worth - that I was in fact capable of starting and finishing a project on my own.

My godmother came to visit me during this time - unsurprisingly, as she hadn't seen me in six months. Yet, instead of giving her my undivided attention, I merely stepped aside from my computer to greet her and continued to read my notes as she talked. It didn't matter to me how much time I needed to spend if it meant I was able to do a good job. I used jet lag as an excuse to stay up, stopping only to eat and take necessary breaks. Sometime throughout, though, I had started to feel sick. But instead of letting myself rest, I became angry for being an impediment to my own progress. I was almost - just almost - there.

The next day, I found myself weakly lying in my own hospital bed. I had developed the stomach flu without knowing, as I had marginally ignored all my symptoms, including the fact that I was projectile vomiting in between my work sessions. All night long, nurses were checking in and switching out my IV fluids, which led me to think of whether people would truly remember me for how hard I worked or really, instead, my character and the values that I hold true to myself. Neglecting myself had only resulted in me falling acutely ill, yet not a single person on the other side of the screen had known or would know, had I not spoken up.

Outside of being a research assistant and student, I realized I was a person, a friend who deeply cared and a jiejie - older sister - who loved fiercely. I realized, above all, people remembered me for who I was, not what I was. Life changes constantly. It is easy to be engulfed by our work, but it is just as easy to lose yourself. Find purpose and meaning not by the material of your work but by the intention behind it. Work that can be done by you can also just as easily be done by others.

Remind yourself daily of the people you are surrounded by and the privilege it is to be in good health. As I have learned myself, trying your personal best without spreading yourself too thin is the ultimate key to success. While Mr. Adams' quote is a good one, sacrifice some things but never yourself.

Show up for others just as much as you should show up for yourself. You can work hard, take care of yourself and still be successful. Success comes in many forms - it's up to you on how you decide that to be.

Anne Li is a junior from Brooklyn, N.Y. majoring in Neuroscience. She is a Social Media Manager for The News-Letter.