April Chronicle

T

EDITOR’S LETTER

Okay, I’ll do my best not to get too sappy here…

This is the last issue of The Chronicle that I will have the pleasure of being the editor of! Being the editor for the past two years has been a delight, and I’ll miss working with my wonderful, hilarious, smart team and the creative outlet of designing each spread.

This position has challenged me in ways I never expected and has forced me to grow so much. My time management skills have been pushed to the LIMIT, especially last semester when I was trying to balance 6 courses, a job, and the newspaper (I had a few breakdowns, lol…). But the value vastly outweighs the difficulties.

Learning about people, every person we interviewed, every person on the team, has been so valuable to me. We have some incredible people at Burman – don’t take that for granted! Everyone has a unique and interesting story to tell, and there is so much to gain from having conversations.

To my team: you are awesome. And so smart. And WITTY! You guys have made me laugh out loud on countless occasions. Every single meeting we had was so fun, I often felt like you guys were paid just to hang out with me :) I have no doubt in my mind that all of you will do amazing things, and I’m so glad I had the opportunity to work with you.

Thank you guys for reading and for all the love! I hope you enjoy the final issue of the school year <3.

EMMA MOWAT EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Writer of the Month

Thirsa Ward

“The Most DOWN BAD Adventist University in North America”

The Chronicle team voted on our favourite article in the previous issue, and Thirsa received the most votes for her “The Most DOWN BAD Adventist University in North America” article! Check it out in the March issue if you haven’t already!

Fast Food Worker Summer Job SerieS

meet cooper!

Hello, my name is Cooper Bell, I am from California and am currently a biology student at Burman University.

Where did you work this summer, and what did your job entail?

I worked at Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers over the last 2 years, and on the job, I first worked as a cashier and maintained the dining room, and then as I got more experienced, I was moved to the kitchen where I fried fresh chicken and fries across 8 fryer baskets, and helped make the orders.

What did a day in your life look like?

I would mainly have the burden of work most days as I wasn’t in school, eat food from work, maybe hang out with some coworkers afterwards, and come home and IMMEDIATELY shower due to the strong, greasy fried smell.

What was the best part of your

job?

The best part of my job was making a lot of new friends and connections, as well as having the freedom of spending my own money. Also, the pay for the job was very good due to an increase in wages to all fast food employees in all US states.

Would you recommend this job to other students?

What was the worst part?

The job itself was stressful at times since fast food is always fast-paced, and our managers were always on us to push orders out in under 2 minutes. Being in the kitchen was also the most stressful because everyone was essentially waiting on you to cook with efficiency and quality. Our facility was also next to a shopping centre and a high school, so there honestly weren’t that many breaks.

I would recommend this job to anyone who is capable of handling food and being under pressure. I know this was my first job, but the demand of all the customers, as well as managers, all at once, did get a bit overwhelming at times. A strong, capable student would do well at a job like this.

What qualities are necessary for this job?

A bit of charisma, patience, determination, a sense of urgency, multitasking, communication, and staying strong under pressure.

What was the application process like?

This job was my first and only job, so the application process consisted of submitting my resume and only about a 15-minute in-person interview.

Would you do this job again?

Probably not, it became very demanding and stressful, the main thing keeping me going was my friends I made along the way. The experience of this job was definitely worth it, though, and I believe it contributed to developing my character.

Ms. Take Advice with

The Weary Friend-Seeker

Dear Ms. Take,

This year, I made a goal of trying to befriend people who are different from me on campus. I do not want to generalize, but I find a certain group on campus to have strong, expressive opinions, and I disagree with the way they portray the Bible and the character of Jesus. Instead of expressing my opinions right away, I tried to understand things from their perspective by merely asking questions. I genuinely just sought to understand, as passionate people usually have sincere motivations for their passions. In the end, however, I felt that by constantly trying to understand the other person, I was incredibly drained. I am not a Bible scholar (neither did I think I needed to be one to understand the heart of Jesus), so this person used my lack of formal religious education and hours in the Bible to be the reason I couldn’t comprehend Biblical concepts. Mind you, I was born SDA and have never left the church! This is very concerning because they approach me, and many other people, with an air of condescension and judgment. Pardon me if I sound harsh, but it seems almost Pharisee-like to be such an immense critic of our campus, of our students and our staff when the main focus should not be to condemn the sinner and bring them to justice, but to love them and bring them to Christ. Isn’t the best way to reveal the Truth to act as such? Shouldn’t we as Christians be bearing the fruits of the Spirit? Even Matthew says, “You

will know them by their fruits” (Matt 7:16). Please give me your advice on how to deal with situations like this, so I do not become as equally bitter as my opponents, but rather that I may lead with kindness.

Sincerely, Friend-Maker

Ms. Take: Dearest Friend-Maker, Your queries have been received and heard, certainly, though not entirely understood. There is, I fear, a note of bitterness in your tone that does little to recommend you to the very friendships you seek. I suggest a shift in perspective. These are not opponents, but fellow Christians on journeys as complex as your own. And if you possess such strong opinions, why not deliver them directly to their intended audience rather than whispering them into the void? Courage, after all, is far more effective in conversation than in complaint. You claim to desire friends who differ from you, yet seem most distressed when they do. How curious. Difference, my dear, is not a flaw to be corrected but a reality to be navigated. If kindness is to be your opening move, this particular “Take” has rather missed the mark. Perhaps begin instead by asking yourself a simpler question: do you truly wish to befriend these individuals? If not, you are under no obligation. If so, you may find that mutual understanding requires more grace than grievance. Friendship, like any proper union, flourishes best when one is… suitably aligned.

Dangerous Rumours

Dear Ms. Take,

Rumour has it that our campus hosts a rather curious gentleman whose public persona seems to shift depending on his audience. In a certain company, he speaks of repentance and lofty spiritual ambitions, a man determined, he claims, to “take things to God.” Yet in other circles, the tale grows stranger still, as he boasts of far darker devotions and theatrical encounters with the devil himself. One cannot help but wonder which performance is the true one. More troubling whispers suggest that this same individual may have crossed boundaries that should never be crossed, allegedly sending inappropriate images to those who never asked for them — and worse, to those far too young to receive them. If such rumours hold even a grain of truth, one must ask: when does a scandal stop being gossip… and start becoming something that must be reported?

For the sake of our community, perhaps this is one mystery that should not remain in the shadows.

Sincerely,

The Not-So-Silent Observer:)

Ms. Take:

My Dearest Not-So-Silent Observer, Of all the responses to grace these pages, yours stands apart. A keen eye and a careful ear are simply… refreshing. On a campus as intimate as ours, whispers travel swiftly, and yes, I, too, have heard such accusations. But let us be precise: a scandal remains gossip until proven. Once truth steps forward and the matter begins to affect others’ well-being, it ceases to be entertainment and becomes

a responsibility. And responsibility, my dear, demands action. Swift, deliberate, and unflinching. This, of course, is in no defence to the individual of whom we speak. For a Christian campus to turn a blind eye to such behaviour would be not only disappointing but deeply contradictory. Some matters are not meant to be whispered about in corridors; they are to be addressed directly and without delay. Pray, let us take our seats and observe in perfect composure, for nothing is quite so entertaining as a fool requiring no assistance to make a spectacle of himself. Why intervene when he performs so admirably on his own?

A Concerned Subject

Dear Ms. Take, Everyone comes to you with their problems, and I, too, have a question for you: how are YOU doing, Ms. Take?

Sincerely, Querious Questioner

Ms. Take:

My Sweet Querious Questioner, You are quite the delight. I thank you for your concern. Ms. Take is, for the most part, thriving splendidly. I must confess, with the endless array of your dilemmas, disasters, and delightfully problematic behaviours, I am rarely short of entertainment. Truly, you all bring me far more joy than you intend. Do carry on, I am most amused.

A Sinful Action

Dear Ms. Take, Is using AI for rushing assignments considered sinful?

Sincerely, Epson Projector

Ms. Take: Epson Projector, Let us consult a wiser source than fleeting convenience. As it is written in Proverbs 10:9: “Whoever walks in integrity walks securely, but whoever takes crooked paths will be found out.” One need not read far to see the implication. To rely on AI as a shortcut is to flirt rather boldly with the crooked path, all in the name of

saving a few precious hours. How… efficient. How… unfortunate. This campus already hums with the quiet overuse of such conveniences. Must you truly join the chorus? Integrity, my dear, may be slower, but it is far less scandalous when the results are revealed.

Student Slumber

Dear Ms. Take,

Should students be allowed to sleep in class? They already pay for the class; isn’t it their own time? They also aren’t hurting anyone.

Sincerely, Frank Motion

Ms. Take:

May I Be Frank, Frank?

Why attend class at all if your grand ambition is to nap through it? Should slumber overtake you by accident, then by all means, excuse yourself with dignity and retire to a proper bed. But if you linger merely for attendance, let us not pretend you are truly attending. Presence without participation is little more than decorative. So no, in my humble opinion, they should not be.

Barking Up the Wrong Tree

Dear Ms. Take,

Why are only some of the buildings actually “accessible”? Can I only be crippled in like three buildings? Where are the elevators and ramps at?

Sincerely, Mr. Unnecessary

Ms. Take:

Dear Mr. Unnecessary,

Was this penned at three in the morning, or does your mind simply wander there unassisted? I confess, a brief tour would be… enlightening. If this is indeed a genuine concern, I suggest you direct it to Administration, where such appeals are meant to reside. As for me, Ms. Take does not entertain quarrels that arrive so poorly dressed in reason.

A Lost Cause

Dear Ms. Take,

How do we tell that one Staff to stop using CHAT to write all his emails and stories...

Sincerely, Mr. AI

Ms. Take:

Mr. AI,

Sighs… I fear we have long since crossed the point of no return. This matter has already graced our recent emails and, quite thoroughly, I might add. It would seem, dear sir, that the issue has been addressed… or merely swept under the rug.

Snake On Campus

Dear Ms. Take,

How do I approach and interact with a “friend” who pursues all the guys I have expressed interest in?

Sincerely, Ms. B

Ms. Take:

My Dearest Ms. B,

What a most intriguing “Take” you bring, a backstabbing friend, you say? My love, let us be clear: that is no friend, but rather an insecure soul in borrowed loyalty. One you would do well to avoid, both in speed and style. Should you possess a taste for confrontation (and I do hope you do), I encourage you to address the matter directly. Present your evidence, yes, the receipts, and inquire, quite plainly, what game they believe they are playing. Their answer, or lack thereof, will reveal far more than their actions ever could. And if they attempt to twist your reality or persuade you that you have imagined it all? Consider that your final confirmation.

Distance yourself, my dear. Not all companies are meant to be kept.

Unwarranted Worries

Dear Ms. Take,

Should I run for BUSA if I know that everyone else is so experienced... would it be embarrassing?

Sincerely, Ms. CAT

Ms. Take:

I wholeheartedly encourage you to run for

BUSA, experience or not. Embarrassing? Hardly. Ambition, my dear, is far more admirable than hesitation. Why not aim for the stars? The worst that may occur is rejection, and I assure you, it is far less dreadful than one’s imagination insists. Far worse, in fact, is never daring at all.

Step forward with audacity. The stage rarely remembers those who never chose to stand upon it.

Eccentric Endeavours

Hello Ms.Take,

I’m planning to participate in One Day Without Shoes soon. How can I get more people on my floor to join me without sounding preachy?

Your favourite country gal, Janice McCallister

Ms. Take:

My word, what an adventurous proposal you have brought. One Day Without Shoes, here in Alberta? Positively heroic… and undeniably freezing. Not to mention the rather delicate matter of hygiene. I shall confess, I will not be partaking in such extracurricular bravery myself. However, for a cause so worthy, perhaps your approach requires a touch of refinement. Lead first with the purpose — the why of the matter, before unveiling the frostbitten how. Inspire the heart, my dear, and the “feet” may yet follow.

The Realest.

Dear Ms. Take,

I am broke. I am struggling to pay my bills. I have applied to over 75+ jobs, I am in the employment Facebook groups, I respond to the emails looking for last-minute, small jobs across campus, and yet it’s still not enough to make ends meet. Do you have any advice for me?

Sincerely, Benson Boone.

Ms. Take:

Dearest Benson Boone,

This may be the most honest Take to grace these pages, and for that, you have my respect. I would offer you the usual comforts, “everything will be quite well”,

but I suspect you are not in the mood for pretty reassurances. Instead, let us be practical. If the income is uncertain, then the outflow must be examined with ruthless precision. Have you traced where your money quietly disappears? Subscriptions, dining out, little indulgences that feel harmless until they accumulate? Replace where you can, reduce where you must. Needs, my dear, must take precedence over wants, however persuasive those wants may be. Consider what you might sell, what you might pause, and where you might save. As a student, you possess a most underrated advantage: access. Discounts, deals, small mercies tucked behind your student status, all worth pursuing with intention. (Perhaps try StudentBeans or SPC Card).

Not all hope is lost. But hope, on its own, is a poor strategist. Prioritise. Budget. Adapt. And above all, find your own steady.

Fruitless Seeking

Dear Ms. Take,

How do you defeat the desire for validation from the opposite gender? How can I fully love someone if I yearn for the gaze of others as well? Is it over for me?

Sincerely, BAM

Ms. Take:

Beloved BAM,

Might I suggest, gently, but firmly… therapy? The sort devoted to strengthening one’s self-esteem and untangling those quiet insecurities that so often masquerade as charm. People-pleasing, constant validation-seeking… they rarely arrive uninvited. There are, however, a few remedies within your reach:

1. Identify your triggers, those moments that send you searching for approval (yes, that includes certain apps and performative postings). Then, practice self-validation. A novel concept, I know: “I am proud of this.” “I did well.” Revolutionary, don’t you think?

2. Invest in yourself. Not in appearances for others, but in pursuits that bring you genuine satisfaction — your interests,

your ambitions, your growth. And build a circle that uplifts you, rather than romances that exhaust you.

3. As for this habit of leaping from one relationship to the next, only to re-emerge reborn on a fresh Instagram page… my dear, transformation is not announced; it is demonstrated. If you find yourself repeating this cycle, I suggest you revisit the earlier advice and remain there.

And above all, understand this: no one is coming to complete you. You are not half of anything or anyone. You are already whole, though it would seem some assembly is still required.

Infatuation or Insecurity?

Dear Ms. Take, How do you develop healthy friendships with the opposite gender without falling into infatuation?

Sincerely, Mr. Bewildered

Ms. Take:

Mr. Bewildered,

Ah, yes — the age-old conundrum of boyfriends and girl-friends. Society has long treated such arrangements as either scandalous or impossible, when in truth, they are merely… mismanaged. You will be pleased to know that the solution is not nearly so complex as it is often made out to be. It rests upon three pillars: boundaries, communication, and awareness.

1. Boundaries. These must be clear, intentional, and consistent. Limit physical affection that may blur the lines: lingering embraces, hand-holding, or any gesture that might be mistaken for something more tender than intended. Familiarity is charming until it becomes bewildering.

2. Communication. One must be explicit about the platonic nature of the relationship. Assumptions are the birthplace of misunderstanding. Speak plainly, and ensure both parties stand on equal footing. And do take care with emotional intimacy, those deep, late-night conversations that drift into vulnerability can, quite unintentionally, mimic the closeness of a romantic bond. Proceed with

caution.

3. Awareness of setting. Frequent oneon-one encounters, particularly in private, have a curious way of inviting speculation (especially at Burman) both from others and, occasionally, from one’s own heart. Group settings, on the other hand, preserve clarity and keep intentions comfortably within their proper bounds. In the end, such friendships are not only possible but also admirable when handled with maturity and restraint. Without such care, they risk becoming tangled webs of mixed signals and unspoken expectations. Navigate wisely, Mr. Bewildered. Not every connection needs to become a romance, but they do require respect.

Polygamy AGAIN?

Dear Ms. Take,

How do you navigate falling in love with several people at once?

Sincerely, Maro Polo

Ms. Take:

Dearest Marco Polo, I cannot shake the feeling that our paths have crossed before…how curious. What you describe is no simple terrain to navigate. The heart, as it turns out, is quite capable of entertaining affections for more than one soul at a time. But do not be deceived, not all love is created equal. More often than not, we are drawn to different facets of different people… or perhaps to the different versions of ourselves we become in their presence. This is why discernment is essential. Love must never be mistaken for lust, nor for that intoxicating, all-consuming rush we so often romanticize. That, my dear, is limerence: a fleeting chemical enchantment, thrilling but notoriously unsustainable, especially when divided among multiple objects of affection. So I must ask: have you truly paused to examine what it is you feel? Or are you merely chasing intensity wherever it may appear? And if your ambitions do indeed extend toward loving several people at once… well, it would hardly be the first time such scandalous arrangements have graced these pages. Though I advise you to tread carefully, the heart is not nearly so manageable as one might hope.

Uncovering My Secret?

Dear Ms. Take, Roses are red

Get into bed

Violets are blue I’m into you

Burman is sweet

For you I would cheat

The two e’s in your name stand for the Edibles I Eat

Sincerely,

Edgar Alina Poe

Ms. Take:

My Darling Poe, Is that you? How… delightfully suspicious. Have you taken it upon yourself to unveil my identity with such sweet, if not slightly concerning, declarations? My dear, such flattery is best reserved for quieter corners, not scattered so boldly across public pages. Careful now, my darling… some mysteries are far more enchanting when left unsolved.

Recreational Activities

Dearest Ms. Take,

I humbly write to thee to seek your most esteemed wisdom, for I am certain that you hold the answer to my query. I am a mature student living off campus who does not boast an amorous connection to the church community upon which this school is founded. I strive to uphold the lofty expectations of this institution, but I am also an independent adult with no desire to be told what is proper by a religious institution.

All of this to say, I am quite fearful, and paranoia plagues me on the issue I bring to you today. Will Burman take disciplinary action against me if they discover my legal recreational marijuana use, on my own time, in my own home? I impatiently await your answer to put my restless mind at ease.

Sincerely, Lady Mary Jane

Ms. Take:

Dear Lady Mary Jane, I offer this with the understanding that I may not be privy to every rule, but if you are indeed an off-campus student, your liberties are largely your own… beyond the watchful gaze of these grounds. Should such recreational inclinations make their way onto campus, however, you may find yourself in rather less forgiving territory. Boundaries, my dear, do exist, even if some choose to dance along their edges. It is, of course, widely encouraged (for reasons both moral and medicinal) that one refrains altogether. And yet, I must commend your boldness to… speak so openly on such matters is no small act. Do take care that courage does not become carelessness.

My Darling Subjects,

You have been thoroughly entertaining. Your questionable Takes, your scandalous confessions, your occasional disregard for others, all of it has provided me with endless amusement… and, on occasion, the opportunity to offer what I consider excellent (and satirical) advice. Now, I am aware that some among you believe I have offered none at all. To that, I can only suggest… perhaps the fault lies not in the advice, but in the understanding of it. Though I shall concede, not every query was deserving of such effort. And so, my dears, I take my leave. But not without one final question lingering in the air: Have you discovered who I am?

Do take care, my fascinating little subjects.

Yours in mystery and mischief, Ms. Take

Are We Still Friends?

How to nourish Burman friendships over the summer

Written by Renee Hall

Well, well, it is that time of the year when everyone is gearing up to depart for 3-4 months.

CUE the loneliness and existential dread of being away from the best people ever that you only met 4 months ago and fell in love with. While getting ready to go our separate ways, some of you may realize that you truly do not like your own homes, and perhaps you are feeling a surge of anxiety as you leave the new little family you have chosen for yourself. Perhaps you are realizing you have attachment issues and are worried that the friends you have made will forget about you over the summer and move on. For all you know, your new friends being away from you will help them realize how toxic you are and that they need therapy (hey, no hate, we all have our issues). OR you are on the other side of the spectrum and have found your people, you finally feel loved for who you are, and you’re worried that you might drift out of contact with your newfound comforters. It is also possible that you, like me, are absolutely useless at staying in touch with people over the phone. (To all my friends reading this, I apologize for when I leave.) I have gotten better, so here is a quick guide on how I stay in touch with my friends during the summer. Look no further, people, I’ve got you. The steps are as follows:

1. Send TikToks, keep the streak alive. 2. Send reels to insult them.

That’s it.

I’m kidding (not really).

There is a healthier way to stay in touch, unlike mine, to keep your attachment issues alive, to kill the separation anxiety, and to make sure your friendships continue for decades to come.

Here are five simple tips to keep up with your friends over the summer or after graduating:

1. Don’t text all day, it’s exhausting. You don’t need to overdo it. Just have a weekly checkin, a FaceTime call on a day you’re both free, maybe a random weekly voice note to update each other about the week.

2. Watch the same show/movie “together”, then have a little debrief/catch-up session.

3. Send photo updates of your day (I guess that’s what Snap is for…)

4. Play an online game, perhaps? For the Apple cult, it’s Game Pigeon.

5. Do an activity together over a call, like going to lunch together. (Unless you are in different time zones, then uh, watch them get ready for bed? If you’re into that kind of thing.)

Being with your friends may have become your whole campus life, but you need to remember that you are a person without them. The hardest part of distance is accepting that the friendship dynamic will change. You both have different schedules, will talk less often, and will make new friendships during the months you are separated. AND THAT’S OKAY. If you are feeling the distance between you, be honest with them and yourself and say, “Hey, I miss talking to you. Mind if we plan a call soon?” Now, to me, that sounds way too formal. I would probably say something like “You

didn’t reply to me two hours ago, so you hate me?” (which is guilt tripping, don’t do that guys, it’s unhealthy).

On the topic of unhealthy, do not make them your only emotional outlet; they may have been on campus, but they do not need to continue to be. ALSO, stop the overchecking to see if they replied or overanalyzing their reply time. You are feeding your separation anxiety; they have a life, maybe you should get one too? Start a journal, pick up a new hobby, start a new sport or do a random summer sidequest (skydiving, perhaps?). Imagine all the awesome stories you could tell your friends when you all return for the fall semester. By now, you already know who your friends are and who will stay in your life for a long time.

Friendship is sacred; it’s unconditional trust, a sense of freedom, and peace with someone you meet and begin to call family. I know that here at Burman, I have made some irreplaceable friendships which mean the world to me. The truth of the matter is that when you meet your people, keeping the friendship “alive” should come to you as naturally as breathing. In true friendships, you could go months without speaking, but finally, when you two are in the same room, it’s like nothing ever changed. So don’t worry, to paraphrase the great words of Stitch, when you’re loved, you’ll never be forgotten or replaced.

Family Survival Guide

How to survive being home for the summer

Written by Teresa Bruce

Idon’t know about you, but I have certainly been lectured with Exodus 20:12: “Honour your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land the Lord your God is giving you”. Now, my friends, it is not wise to rebuke biblical counsel, but it is certainly human to struggle with it.

For some, it can be a challenge to transition from your Burman family to your home family. For those of you who are audibly laughing at the thought of missing Burman, congratulations! You may not experience such intense grief and loss, but you may very well romanticize home life. Let me try to remind you of some of the woes of home life:

- Household chores

- Family Drama

- Annoying Siblings

- Ex-Situationships

- That complex dance between wanting independence and being seen as a kid

- Remembering why you wanted to escape to Burman in the first place :)

But as someone who has experienced the great return 3 times, trust me, it can get better. Hopefully, your time away has taught you more about yourself and given you the courage to make space for yourself. Maybe you have taken the time to reflect on how your family is not actually crazy, but rather a little eccentric. Maybe you have even matured and recognized that your attitude was part of the problem. Whatever it may be, it is a transitional period where tensions can arise.

If you are travelling back to a more

stressful environment, it can be especially taxing. Sometimes you don’t have the luxury to fully be yourself or exist at home in the way you want. That is not the end of the world, but it does call for some serious reevaluation and intentional planning. You need to make a survival plan: plan how you will make it through the summer in one piece. Don’t let yourself just be swept away and have these few months of summer pass you by.

No one knows how to navigate your family life better than you do. With that said, here are some little tips and tricks you may employ when tensions/loneliness/GET ME OUT OF HERE feelings get to you:

1. Catch up with a hometown friend - it can ground you and give a sense of belonging

2. Form a new friendship - It can be exciting to expand your connections

3. Initiate a healthy and mature conversation with parents about boundaries + expectations - can set the summer off to a good start

(results may vary)

4. Be a tourist in your own city (break the mundane routine, add some whimsy and perhaps buy an overpriced matcha)

5. Don’t Internalize EverythingHave a support system to spread the burden. If you don’t have support at home, reach out to your support group from Burman (texts, FaceTime, snail mail)

6. Take Me Time! Take yourself out on dates - (library, cute cafes, park)

7. GET OUT OF THE HOUSE - I can’t stress this enough! Whether it be for a job, to volunteer, or simply to frolic - MOVE around :)

8. Start planning your Burman Comeback, or perhaps plan your post-grad action plan

9. Win the lottery (Perhaps then start a scholarship for awards night)

Whether you are returning to a place that feels like home or to a place that makes you wish you were back at Burman, I hope the transition will be tolerable. Hold onto your outlets and enjoy whatever aspects of freedom and expression you can. Strive to create and protect those pockets of safe space, and may you return to Burman refreshed and ready to excel :)

P.S: I know this is cliché, but it couldn’t be more true: The grass will always be greener on the other side. So “lock in” and make the most of whatever circumstance you find yourself in. Worst-case scenario, you will experience some intense character development and have crazy stories to recount come September.

INFINITE AURA: THE SUMMER GLOWUP

By Melissa Enache

The school year is almost over, and let’s be honest, you look like a subhuman who’s been living in a basement for a decade and your crush hasn’t even looked in your direction since WISE week.

But listen closely.

The Divine Jawline

You want to walk into the first day of class and have the faculty simultaneously develop whiplash. A strong jaw signals confidence, discipline, and the fact that you haven’t chewed solid food since April 29th.

The Clavicular-Approved Strategy: The Silent Summer

Don’t talk to your hometown friends. Silence builds mystique. More importantly, it helps you maintain Mewing Discipline. If your tongue is not permanently suctioned to the roof of your mouth for the next 120 days, you are fundamentally failing your own potential. If your mom asks what you want for dinner, simply hit her with the Hunter Eyes. She’ll understand immediately (or maybe smack you to help the bone smashing). As Braden says, "There is nothing that can stop my ascension." Speech is for the unoptimized.

Hunter Eyes!!! This is how to other ones are all from his own social media.

April isn’t for studying; it’s for plotting. Summer is a four-month intensive training camp where you will transform from a struggling student into a 10/10 visual threat. When you come back to Burman in September, your crush shouldn’t just notice you; they should be completely stunned. The goal is eye contact and maximum aura.

We consulted Braden Peters, AKA Clavicular, the undisputed king of the TikTok jawline tap. Despite recently getting mogged by a group of frat guys, Braden remains committed to the grind. When he isn't referring to women as targets, he is helping us compile the most amazing guide to returning to Burman as a high-status MAN.

Manual Face Sculpting

Now, I think bone smashing is a total myth that will only leave you looking like you got hit by a stray volleyball during the Bobcat games, but Braden insists it’s the only way to avoid a "recessed side profile." If you aren't ready to use a hammer, try aggressive bone suggestions: Stare at your reflection in the mirror every morning and firmly suggest to your mid-face that it needs to be better. Demand results.

The Internal Glow-Up...

Let’s talk about being beautiful on the INSIDE. Because once you have achieved the perfect harmony of a Greek statue, people will occasionally want to interact with you. You need a personality that is as nice as your physique.

The Weaponized Kindness Hack

You must spend June and July practicing being aggressively kind. This is a highfrequency, competitive kindness. By the time you return to Burman, you should be able to drop a compliment so heavy it leaves the other person physically unable to respond.

The Goal: To be so nice it’s actually a little bit scary.

The Technique: Lock eyes (Hunter style), smile without showing teeth (to preserve the jaw), and whisper: "Your presence is a gift to this campus."

The Result: They are confused, but they know you are superior.

The Mirrored Empathy

Clavicular recommends Reflective Narcissism. (Ignore the fact that he got absolutely out-framed by a 6'4 guy at Arizona State who didn't even know his own body fat percentage). If a friend tells you about their summer job struggles, wait for them to finish, pause for three seconds (while mewing), then say: Your struggle reminds me of my struggle with my facial symmetry; it’s all about resilience."

The Clav-Method: Top 5 Quotes to Live By

If you find yourself losing focus during your summer ascension, memorize these holy words from Braden Peters himself. Repeat them until your cheekbones rise. If you get questioned, just hit the jaw-tap and walk away.

"Bone smashing is legit."

The ultimate defense for when you're caught suggesting a new shape to your face with a hammer.

"It’s really not as bad as people think." Use this to justify any lifestyle choice that makes your roommates reach for the phone to call 911.

"I will never get to live the normal life... so I’m going to try to mog." The official mantra for the student who has traded 8 hours of sleep for 8 hours of mirror-staring.

"You can't change frame."

If your shoulders aren't wider than the doorframe of the Admin building, are you even trying?

"Is he dead? … Hopefully."

A classic Clav reaction for when someone trips over their own feet in the cafeteria. (Aura +1000)

Bro can actually doorframe the AD building

Don’t they look like longlost triplets

Coming back to Burman sexier than ever isn't a goal; it's a must. Use this summer wisely. By optimizing your physique and curating your personality into an aggressively nice person, you aren’t just a returning student. You are a masterpiece of infinite aura. Now go forth, be aggressively beautiful, inside and out. And for the love of aesthetics, stop chewing.

What is your name?

Sam Dumsani Geoffrey Mtike.

What is your major?

I don’t know, I really don’t know anymore. *Biology*

Where are you from? Malawi. Now write down “he was staring blankly at the wall.”

Why did you choose Burman?

Student Spotlight

sam mtike

Why did I choose Burman? There were several options, and this place had some pretty chill fees. And this place had a good ratio of professors to students. But it was harder to get in since I am an immigrant and my government is lowkey crazy.

Meet Sam Mtike! He’s a third-year Bio student from Malawi. He claims to be in the top 90% of FIFA players and loves the movie “Lost in Translation”. If you see him around campus, make sure you say “Hi!”

Is there a quote or saying that inspires you? No.

Is there a hobby or interest you’ve picked up recently?

I’ve gotten back into FIFA; I haven’t played it for two years. But this

semester I’ve needed something to relieve the stresses of school.

What career are you planning on taking on?

I want to get a Master’s in Public Health and go on to work on things like virology and epidemiology with organizations such as the WHO, UN, and Red Cross.

Describe what a perfect day looks like for you.

I wake up. Call my beautiful, lovely girlfriend, Hannah Barillo. Then make some music, chill, go out with friends and go to sleep around 11 pm.

If you could visit anywhere in the world right now, where would you go and why?

I would go to Fiji. *He started beating his chest for literally 30 seconds*

What’s a fun fact about you that people might be surprised to learn?

*Starts using ChatGPT and prompts “random fun fact about a human being”*. Sorry, uh, I can read upside down. *Then, for some reason, he starts reading on his iPad upside down to demonstrate*

Who would you like to give a shout-out to?

Shout out to Dr. Sandra Acquah, man, she’s tough. And shout out to the Motion Boyz.

If you were stuck on an island, who are the three people you would bring to survive?

Hannah Barillo (love interest), Robert Remy (muscles), Jeremy Agyei (comedy/emergency food).

Do you play sports?

Yeah, I’d say I’m pretty good at soccer. I’m captain of the futsal team as well. They call me “the glue”. I guess I can shoot hoops. I made this one three on Jallah.

you are better at than almost anyone else?

I’m a little bit rusty now, but if I get into it again, I’d go back to being better than 90% of FIFA players in the world.

What are some songs you’ve been listening to lately?

Always Everywhere - Charli xcx

PERuMITO NUEVO - Bad Bunny

Push to Start - Tyla

Who is your GOAT?

What? My GOAT? Like in everything? Oh my gosh. That’s a really hard question but I’ll have to go with Sam Mtike.

Do you have any song or movie recommendations?

Let me go to my Letterboxd. “Lost in Translation” is my favourite movie of all time. “La Haine” is such a heartbreaking movie; I love it.

What’s your honest rating of Burman so far, and why?

I’ll give it a 3.75/5. I really like most of the people around here. But it’s just so far away from a lot of stuff, it’s hard.

fident enough to put it out, but I have a secret TikTok account, and I post a song like once a month.

If you could flash a big message in the sky for the whole world to read, what would it say?

Get this. *And then for some reason he dramatically walked over to the window and looked out of it, literally just staring for like 10 seconds*. Life… scratch that. C’mon, Justin, scratch that. Here: You have two lives, and the second life starts when you realize you only have one. Is that good? (He used Google, by the way).

Tell me something about Africa, politically.

Kenya needs to give Raila Odinga a chance. He ran for president 5 times and lost 5 times; give him a chance, please.

What’s your hot take?

I don’t know, I don’t have any hot takes. All my hot takes are facts.

What is something that you think

What’s your secret passion?

I’ve been dabbling in making music. I don’t know if I’ll ever be con-

Summer Romance

Are summer flings worth it?

Written by Martin Santomin

What is summer romance? I would describe summer romance as something that’s exciting, fascinating, and a very high-cortisol event to participate in. As an Adventist youth, I feel like it had to be a canon event when we were in middle school to wear our best fits at camp meeting and play our hearts out in those Saturday night sports runs so that we could get the attention of our crushes. Or hanging out with a mixed-gender friend group at summer camp in hopes you play truth or dare to get dared to hold hands with the girl you like. Well, when we were kids, that was definitely something that a lot of kids would look forward to. Now that we’re older, the idea of “summer romance” is more complex. Like, we wonder if a summer fling is just going to break our hearts and be a waste of time, or perhaps we don’t want any business with the opposite sex without the intention of dating. Especially for those who don’t live in Alberta from May to August, finding summer romance could be useless, as you’d end up doing long distance. To be honest, I can’t really tell you whether pursuing a summer romance is worth it, because each case is different. However, I can give you my personal experience of what I learned from it, and you can take it as you will. My current relationship was a summer romance.

One summer day after work, I went to the mall to buy a pair of socks at Aritzia and I was looking for help, so I went up to this girl who I thought was cute and nervously asked where the socks section was. It then turned out the girl was my sister’s friend!!!!

My sister told me I should go and talk to her, and I thought, you know what, since it’s the summer and I go to Burman, if it doesn’t work out, I would literally never see her again. So I shot my shot, and IT WAS GREEEN and the rest was history. Now, the way I approached the situation was in a “good-hearted way.” A lot of people go into summer flings with the intention of just trying to fulfill their sexual desires. However, I didn’t want to be that type of slimy person, nor did I want that, so I came into it with the mindset of finding someone I could hang out with and do fun summer things with. I had no expectations. This way, you don’t seem like a creep and actually build a genuine friendship. Another thing to note is that I was super honest about my situation. I made sure that I was as transparent as possible. I told her that I went to school in Alberta and that I’m involved in a lot of things, so long distance wasn’t really my forte, and that I was looking for someone I could go on cute dates with (sorry if that’s cringe). I also wanted to be honest, so she wouldn’t feel like she was being led on, and so nothing would be ambiguous. Well, we actually tried not to get attached to each other so that we could avoid heartbreak.

Wellllllll, we actually fell in love, and now she’s my girlfriend. So what’s my point? Summer flings can be fun and exciting; however, you have to make sure that you have a good heart and you’re super honest. It’s important that everyone is on the same page to avoid a painful situation. So yeah, in my experience, summer flings are worth it, just don’t be weird about it, and who knows, you could find your next wife/husband.

Leisure Reads at the Burman Library

Written by Bronwyn Christison

It’s almost the end of the school year, so you might feel as though you’ve read enough textbooks or academic journals to last you a lifetime, but in this article, I am excited to highlight the Burman Library. Whether you are staying on campus over the summer, living in the area, or are just an avid booklover and want to read more just for reading’s sake (summer is the perfect time for catching up on good books), I’m going to spill some secrets that may surprise you about our very own library! Buckle up!

Did you know that the BU Li brary has a section dedicated to LGBTQIA+ books?! I honestly as sumed our library didn’t, but boy, was I wrong! It’s really cool to see Burman offering a broader range of topics than I was expecting, so if you are interested, check it out!

Book recommendations: hear from students on campus about a favourite/current read from our li brary!

Julia Butt: Nuremberg: Infamy on Trial

Abby M: Shingwauk’s Vision

Agatha: O’Malley Series

Pride and Prejudice. Just chat with the lovely Miss Agatha at the front desk, as she is passionate about the fantasy genre!

Also, take a peek at the “new book” section on the top floor. I was so stoked to see a whole display of brand-new books that Burman now has! My all-time favourite book, When Breath Becomes Air, is featured there, a NYT bestseller and a Pulitzer Prize finalist. Along with that, there are other bestselling books featured there. AND you can request books you want to read, like if there is a specific fantasy book you’ve been wanting to get your hands on. So, the next time you are near the library, check out the “new books” bookshelf :)

Dania: On Earth We are Briefly Gorgeous Yandira: Braiding Sweet Grass

While you aren’t likely to find the latest steamy romance, the library does offer a fantasy section that includes the entire Harry Potter, Cinder, and Divergent series, as well as a Manga version of

Finally, after talking to Miss Clark, the librarian, I learned that she intentionally features books from a variety of cultures and religions, as well as varying viewpoints on topics. Although the Burman library’s primary purpose is not to stock large quantities of popular best-sellers for the masses, it still pleasantly surprised me to find that it offers a wide range of genres and books geared to a variety of audiences. I think many students, myself included, had preconceived notions about the Burman library, but consider the BU library next time you want to pick up a book for just reading’s sake. They may just have it!

Insights from the Student Deans

Do they secretly hate their jobs?

(L-R):

Kenny (K), Teresa (T), Michael (M), and Renee (R)

What originally motivated you to become a student dean, and what were your expectations going into the role?

K: I was really excited about the aspect of meeting new students, and I also felt like I could do more for my community by being an SD.

T: I was so excited to be a student dean to have the opportunity to connect with more students! I wanted to be part of a team of people working to make the dorm feel more like a home instead of a prison :)

M: Honestly, at first, I didn’t know if I wanted to do it. I wasn’t sure what I was getting myself into. But by the end of my first year as an RA, I was and still am so grateful for how it developed me as a person, and I wanted to do the same thing in a larger capacity.

R: I wanted to step into a role that seemed fitting to my personality—the strict older sister. I expected chaos (only because I was an RA before), and I knew I would build meaning-

ful relationships with the students living on campus.

What has been the most rewarding part of your experience as a student dean?

K: I love having random long chats with students who are in the same situation I found myself in, and I liked helping them.

T: I love when students are in my office, and they rant about their week. I love it when you can feel a sense of family in the dorms. I also love when we get to plan out fun dorm events and see everyone come together and get competitive or creative.

M: Seeing those who got me to this position grow. It’s been a pleasure working with all the deans whom I’ve worked under. Our relationship has grown as I have, and it has been wonderful. Additionally, a special thank you to Andrew Davis, Jeremy Agyei, and Richard Affum, who were all on my floor when I was an RA, and are now all current dorm staff, doing an amazing job. I am grateful because I believe the influence we had on each other has grown us for the better. Shout out to the whole #118 Crew. Thank you all!

R: I love meeting new people, especially on move-in days. It is rewarding to me to make people feel comfortable in this new, uncharted territory.

Can you share one of the biggest challenges you faced in this role, and how you handled it?

K: Sometimes it can be really hard to manage school while also managing the challenges of the job, especially with people.

T: Although one of the most fulfilling parts of the job is the connections you can make, it can be really hard to see someone fall apart and not find the support they need. Luckily, there are many different resources and people here at Burman who try to bridge the gap, but sometimes Burman just isn’t the right place, or it just isn’t the right time.

M: The biggest challenge has been dealing with some super heavy things. In our day-to-day, people come to us often, pouring out a lot. Sometimes, it may feel too much for us to bear. A reassurance I find is in understanding it isn’t all yours to bear. You can talk to your fellow SDs, the main deans, and, most importantly, pray about what is being brought to you and who is being brought to you. God’s wisdom is far greater than what you could think of.

R: As my fellow SD said, watching someone fall apart, or in my case, being the one falling apart and still having to show up for others. Reminding yourself that you have a team to support you always helps to move forward.

What is it like living in the student dean apartments, and how does that shape your experience in the role?

K: It’s okay to be honest. There’s black mold in my bathroom, so I don’t love that.

T: I’m not going to lie, it’s awesome :) It is such a blessing to have a space right in the dorms, as I can invite friends over and cook all sorts of strange concoctions. The only small downside is that my bedroom is directly above the sliding doors at LVH, so I hear it 24/7.

M: MAPLE IS THE BEST DORM ON CAMPUS. Now that that’s out of the way, I’ve loved living in the apartment. Having the extra space, the ability to host people, and create community has been a wonderful experience. MAPLE IS THE BEST DORM ON CAMPUS. Getting the chance to cook whenever you want, decorating the apartment, all make the experience much better. *Especially at Maple.*

R: Second year living here, and it is great! I get to host people and have my own study nights. I love to bake, and having a kitchen has allowed me to do that and give to all my friends!

How has being a student dean impacted your personal growth and leadership skills or relationships?

K: It’s forced me to interact with a lot of different people, so I had to get out of my comfort zone a bit.

T: It has given me the space to be a lot more confident and extroverted. It has reinforced the importance of time management and the ever-elusive idea of balance. Most importantly,

it has given me deep fulfilment as I can be of assistance to many more people and in a more profound way.

M: To give a short answer, I’ve learned how to delegate and give others the chance to grow. Inasmuch as you could do in a job, it’s a beautiful thing to invest in someone and empower them to grow as a professional and as a person.

R: Could go on for hours, but in short, it allowed me to grow into myself. I can see myself building the character that little me always wanted to be.

Would you recommend this position to other students?

Why or why not?

K: Yes! It’s very rewarding.

T: For sure! I came into the role of student dean with no experience as an RA, so it certainly was a steep learning curve. So I would advise, if possible, becoming an RA first if your goal is to be a student dean. Having a great team with people you genuinely connect with makes all the difference. But you don’t get to choose the team just as you don’t get to choose the residents of the dorm. So it is imperative that you are a people person (or at least be good at pretending) as you will be interacting with many different people and perhaps even your ops :)

M: Yes. BUT. Understand what you’re getting yourself into. The school may or may not be okay with a student dean who just makes sure stuff is done. The school needs and thrives if its student deans care and create a warm, exciting culture, and a safe environment for everyone to come together.

R: Absolutely. If you need a space to grow, to learn how to connect to people, to build good management skills and hone those socializing skills, this job will help in those aspects. I suggest starting by being an RA, as that gives you a good starting point of understanding what it really means to become a part of the Dorm Staff.

If your time as a student dean were a reality TV show, what would it be called and why?

K: It would be like the Mickey Mouse Funhouse. I like to make sure that I’m doing my job while also having fun with it.

T: Honestly, one of the Madagascar movies. The team this year was awesome, and I loved my other student deans. We all got along really well, and our team meetings felt like hangouts. It felt like we were all just on an island (the dorm), coming up with crazy ideas for events and laughing at silly dorm horror stories.

M: Any satirical sitcom or show. The Office, The Boondocks, whatever. Mainly because of how much irony there is in the job. You think someone is joking, but they’re dead serious. You think it’s almost too funny or crazy to be true, until it is. All mixed with some unexpected super sad or sweet emotional moments.

R: Friends. We all become one little family with an immense amount of chaos, and somehow we always find ourselves on one of the Dean’s couches yapping about one thing or the other.

Passports & Postcards

Written by Thirsa Ward

ILOVE travelling, and in the past year I’ve been able to travel to over 30 places! I was so blessed and had so much fun, so here are a few tips, tricks, and maybe some flicks from someone who loves to travel!

1. Plan the essentials, but leave room for spontaneity

It’s important to book major things such as hotels or rental cars, but overplanning can actually take away from the experience. Some of the best moments happen when you wander around and stumble into something unexpected. Some of my favourite memories while travelling come from walking around at the end of the day, exploring the area.

2. Pack lighter than you think you need I am guilty of overpacking my luggage, and this is one of the biggest lessons to learn the hard way. If you can’t carry your bag comfortably for at least 10 minutes, it’s too heavy. You’ll probably be dealing with stairs, tight spaces, and you’ll want room for souvenirs! Making a list ahead of time will save you so much space since you’ll be able to see which clothing can make multiple outfits. It’s easy to find laundry mats all around when travelling, and it’s usually cheaper than the hotel!

3. Get comfortable with being uncomfortable Things will go wrong when travelling. You might miss a train, struggle with a language barrier, or something else. But instead of letting it ruin your day, treat it as part of the experience. Once I was waiting for a coffee and breakfast and almost missed a train, but it’s a memo-

ry I won’t forget. So that’s a plus, they’ll make for funny stories later!

4. Budget more than you expect

Even if you plan carefully, expenses add up quickly. Having a financial cushion can help reduce stress and let you enjoy the experience more.

5. Use public transportation

It’s cheaper, efficient, and gives you a more authentic feel for the place! Trains are also oftentimes more scenic. Train rides are my favourite method of transportation!

6. Don’t try to see everything

It’s tempting to cram in as many destinations as possible into one trip, but that can lead to burnout. Spending more time in fewer places often leads to a more enjoyable experience. Being go-go-go could also cause you to miss out on enjoying the moment.

7. Talk to people

Whether it’s locals or other travellers, conversations often become the most meaningful part of a trip. You’ll gain some new perspectives you’d never get otherwise! At a dinner once, we sat next to a woman who was travelling solo and got to hear all about her experiences. It was not only nice to meet a new friend, but to learn about someone else’s experiences while travelling, and how they saw the same things we saw, but had a different perspective on it!

Advice from a Senior

Written by Renee Hall

Ihave finally reached the end of my undergraduate degree, and I have learned quite a few things along the way. Let’s start at the beginning, shall we?

As an international student, coming to Burman was very intimidating. I did not know what to expect. It’s a new culture, a new country, and I had to do all the exploring on my own, without the comfort of knowing my parents are just a 5-hour flight away (my entire family is a 2-day trip away). I was (keyword WAS, get me out of here), ready for that challenge, new experiences and all. Burman is a small community, and during my first year, my hardest challenge was to make friends; perhaps some of you can relate. Somehow, everyone knows everyone already (the Burman cliques, DO NOT pretend they don’t exist), and you are just sitting on the bench waiting for someone to call you to play. What I have learned from this is not to let your loneliness cloud your judgment when making friends. Don’t rush into making friends because you, as well, just want to fit in; it causes more harm than good in the long run. For me, I had to wait; my true friends only appeared in my second year, so hold onto hope, my lonely beings.

You are going to make A LOT of mistakes, whether it’s friendships, relationships, situationships, academics, extracurriculars, or even your personal well-being. You will fall into a lot of holes that you think you cannot climb out of, but you will. Burman is so small, it seems hard to avoid drama; somehow, everyone knows your business within seconds. My advice? Don’t say anything you don’t want to be public out loud, it’s as simple as that. You got arrested? Perhaps keep that knowledge to yourself; if you truly need to tell someone, speak to God. With that said, MIND YOUR BUSINESS. Do not worm your way into someone else’s story.

Academically challenged? I got you. DO NOT IMMEDIATELY purchase your textbooks as soon as you are given your course requirements. Search for it first, search for PDF files (honourable mentions: Anna’s Archives and Z-Library), wait to see if anyone will sell the textbook at the beginning of the semester and if, after all that, you still can’t find it for free, the online versions (EPub) are usually at half price or lower!

For some of you, your first year is almost over. Was it chaotic? I’m sure it was. Going into your second year, I want you to reflect on the highest moments from your first year, figure out

what made them the highs and use that to chase more of those moments in your second year. Schedule, schedule, schedule, even if it’s a rough schedule. Planning your days and setting designated times for certain things will help you more than you can imagine. Complete the easy assignments, don’t leave them till the last minute just because they’re easy. Need to “lock-in” but miraculously find yourself interested in AI fruits? Hand your phone over to your friend and finish up those assignments. Studying with friends? Great, but if all you’re doing is yapping instead of working, stop trying to convince yourself this time will be different; it won’t be. Go to the

library ALONE.

I am naturally shy/introverted, and I only realized in my third year that speaking to your professors, even for a quick chat, is extremely helpful. You get to know them better, and they get to know you better. By understanding them, you can get a sense of their teaching methods and the “vibes” they bring to class. Just a disclaimer: this will not work for all professors/classes; some professors are just tough nuts to crack, much like those who set hard deadlines for assignments but take over a month to grade. Their excuse is that they have 3 classes with 40 students each. Well, sir/ma’am, please do not forget the struggle that you went through when you were in our shoes! 5-6 classes, two part-time jobs, and a couple of extracurricular activities in order to build “experience.” We are all still learning how to live; please have mercy on us. Try not to get worked up by the little things, like the way a professor spoke to you, how unavailable your TA is, everyone else’s grades but your own, or the little catch phrase that your professor uses to end every class, but never actually does end the class.

Above all, DO NOT LOSE YOURSELF. Burnout is intense, and after a couple of times, it becomes harder to recover from it. Taking care of yourself spiritually, physically and mentally is vital for your success. Keeping up with your relationship with God, staying active and eating as “right” as possible will help you in your academics. Finding that balance is not a waste of time, and neither is it less important than your academics. Keep a tidy room, pick up a hobby, make time for yourself and your interests, and enjoy the sunshine (when it is out). Your brain probably needs a reset. Don’t forget who you are on this journey; it is easy to lose hold of your values, but stay focused and take care of yourself. You’ve got this!

Get to Know a Graduate Denora Tanihu

Interviewed by Teresa Bruce

Dearest Denora, could you please share with us what you will be graduating from Burman with?

I am graduating with a Major in Behavioural Science and a Minor in English.

What is something you learned outside the classroom that you’ll carry with you forever?

I cannot explain this in a few words but it is wonderful to be a village member. Sometimes you get the village, but either way, being a village member should always be the reward. Oh, another thing I learnt is that the world will not fall apart if I do not show up, and it definitely won’t wait for me even if my world is falling apart. It has always been a struggle for me, but the main thing is to know when to rest and know when to run. As my grandma once said, excessive rest makes you rusty.

Who had the biggest impact on your university experience, and why?

Too many to count. I have had the privilege of meeting many amazing professors during my time here. But I have had a thousand classes with Dr. Justina Obisike. She strikes a perfect balance between firmness, kindness, and empathy, and that is something I think I need to learn, especially since I am moving into the “real world”.

What is some advice you would give underclassmen, but more specifically to young Denora?

Don’t take life too seriously! Growth is a beautiful thing that will happen at the right time, be it in

knowledge or skills, just wait for it. No matter what it feels like, God is with you, and He loves you. Another thing is to remember that there are many perspectives to a story, even if that story may be your own.

Could you share some of your immediate plans after graduation or your long-term aspirations?

To finally rest, it has not been easy! On a more serious note, I plan to work for a year or two before moving on to do my Master’s.

What are you most excited and maybe most nervous about as you enter this next chapter?

Excited for sure because I know God will be with me through it all. That said, I don’t know what my future holds, but I am curious to see what kind of person I will grow into under the influence of the experiences and relationships that “adulthood” will bring. I really pray I will still be able to approach life with a little bit more hope.

What is the funniest thing that has happened during your time at Burman?

Tough question, after 4 years here, there have been too many things and people that have had me doing the ugly laugh. I remember laughing the hardest during those late-night conversations and hangouts. I do not remember what we were laughing at or so happy about, but I just know that it is a feeling I will hold on to for a really long time.

What do you anticipate you will miss the most about Burman?

I don’t want to give the same old answer of “community”. But that is what it is. It is knowing that there is always someone on campus who intimately relates to whatever I am going through. I also don’t take for granted that Burman is structured for my success (most times). From the students to the professors, to Sakala, and all the club activities, everything is within my reach because the campus is so small and intimate.

It was here that I realized that we always have a village, even though we don’t see it.

Gun to your head, having gone through all that you went through, would you choose Burman again?

Without a doubt, I would choose Burman again. A big part of it comes from the fact that Burman has given me the space to just exist. I don’t say this lightly; I truly appreciate the opportunities Burman has given me to grow as a leader, as an intellectual, and as a person living in community with other people. But, beyond that is also the fact that Burman is not the end. There is definitely more to explore about life, but I really think Burman was a good place to start. It was the place I chose from the very beginning, and I am sticking to this choice, no regrets whatsoever.

How do you hope to be remembered here at Burman?

I want to be remembered as someone who gave my best to everything and everyone I committed to. I know I mentioned earlier not to take everything seriously, but that is the practicality of it. I gave my best, but on days when my best wasn’t enough, I want that to be the one thing that remains. I would choose my people again, the extracurriculars again, my major again, and at the risk of sounding cringey, I would definitely choose Burman again and again.

Thank you so much, Denora, for reflecting on your experiences at Burman and for sharing some of your future aspirations.Your Burman family will mourn your departure, but we are so excited to cheer you on as you embark on this new transition into *GASP* adulthood. Thank you for all the kindness you have blessed this campus with and for all the time and energy you put into your community. We love you, Denora!

Summer Bucket List

Written by Martin Santomin

Go on a trip with your friends/partner

Guys, the summer is about new experiences, joymaxxing and low cortisol levels. Travelling to new places with people who are special to you checks all these boxes. I suggest you guys go somewhere completely new to everyone. This can create really funny experiences, and honestly, exploring and freestyling with funny people is the best thing ever.

Jump off a cliff (into a body of water)

Go camping

The summer is hot, especially in BC, and there’s no better way to cool off and achieve low cortisol than jumping off a cliff. It’s a great rush, and a cold plunge will help you achieve clarity of mind. Go camping. And no, I don’t mean go glamping in a yurt or something, go camping raw style. Sometimes the boys and I like to go camping with the bare minimum and see what happens. It’s the funniest thing ever, and the fact that it’s cursed makes it funny. It also creates insane dad lore. Like this one time, I remember it was raining, and we needed to make a fire to cook food and survive for the day; however, it kept failing, and we were on our last piece of kindling and magically, by God’s intervention, the wood caught fire, and we lived another day. No one thought to bring a lighter, so that was awesome.

Go on a bike ride

Go on a bike ride and explore your neighbourhood. I like to use no GPS and try to get lost and then find my way back. Alternatively, you could also go to a rich neighbourhood and bike around there to look at the really nice houses and pretend you work there. There’s honestly nothing better than riding a bike and listening to Steve Lacey.

Sit on the curb and eat food

Go do an active activity for the whole day, like playing basket ball outdoors, beach volleyball, or maybe a hike, and then go to McDonald’s, sit on the curb, and eat it. We need to LARP memories.

Ride a boat

I don’t mean like a yacht or a speedboat; it could be any type of boat, such as a rowboat, an inflatable boat, or an air mattress. Get on a floating apparatus this summer and listen to music, fish, or just, I don’t know, jump around.

Make new friends

Make new friends!! Maybe we get tired of hanging out with the same friend group at Burman, I don’t know, so whenever you go out somewhere, try to farm interactions. For example, if you go on vacation and see someone your age, go talk to them and create a buddy who can show you around and stuff.

Go on a hike

Touch grass this summer. Hiking always seems like a good idea, and then you start, and you hate it, but then you reach the top, and you love it.

Take your dog to the beach

Your dog has limited time left. He might go his whole life without seeing the ocean. Think about that.

Masculine Messaging, Silent Stereotypes

Written by Thirsa Ward

Every week, the Burman emails flood with opportunities. Volunteer calls, leadership roles, minor assistance needed… On the surface, it seems routine, just another way to get involved. However, if you look closely at the wording, you may see a pattern begin to emerge. One phrase that appears more often than it should: “Strong men needed”. At first glance, it may seem harmless. Maybe the task involves lifting chairs or setting up equipment. Maybe it’s just “practical language”. However, words are never just words, and these words carry assumptions about who is capable, expected, and maybe even who belongs.

When a call goes out specifically for “strong men”, it does more than just describe the physical requirements. It actually reinforces the idea that this strength is inherently male. Even if that message isn’t intended, the impact is still there. What’s striking isn’t just what is said, but also what is not being said. Not once in my 4 years of being at Burman have I ever seen an email (and I read at least the first two sentences of EVERY email) asking for strong women. Never do we see gender-neutral language

like “strong students” or “strong volunteers” or even “people who are able to lift heavy items”, and that absence speaks volumes. I believe it reflects a broader cultural pattern where men are positioned as default strong labourers, while women are overlooked or simply excluded.

This pattern reflects what sociologists describe as gender role socialization. From a young age, individuals are taught what is appropriate for their gender. Men are associated with strength, women are associated with care, and so forth. These expectations don’t disappear in adulthood either; instead, they are enforced in the language and stereotypes we use every day. Even in something as simple as a campus-wide email.

This article isn’t about accusing individuals of intentional sexism; most of these emails are likely written quickly and without much thought. But maybe that’s also part of the issue. This bias is unconscious and embedded in everyday systems, which makes it harder to notice and change. It connects to symbolic interactionism, which is a theory that focuses on how meaning is created through repeated so-

cial interactions. So each time someone says “strong men are needed”, the message is reinforced that men are expected to step forward and women are not. Over time, these small cues shape behaviour, and we see who volunteers, who hesitates, and who feels like they belong in certain roles.

I think that instead of saying “Strong men”, we can say “Students able to lift ___ pounds”. Instead of assuming who fits the role, we can describe the role itself. Capability is not gendered, and neither should our emails. I think a really great class to take is Sociology of Gender Roles, taught by Dr. Justina Obisike. Not only is she a great teacher, but you go more in-depth about gender roles and how it affects our society. I highly recommend taking it.

Ultimately, this issue isn’t just about email phrasing. It’s about how everyday practices reproduce a broader system of inequality. If we want to build a campus that genuinely values inclusion, we shouldn’t just pay attention to the major policies, but also the small, repeated messages.

Summer Fashion

Written by Martin Santomin

Hello, “fashion” people. Allow me to give you my unwarranted opinion on what you should be wearing this coming summer 2026. Let me tell you what microtrends you should ride on before they get overhyped and made fun of in the near future. This summer is going to be a summer of pretending like you didn’t think about your outfit. You’re going to want to be larping the role of someone who just decided to put on clothes that day and happened to look good in them. So if you don’t want to look like a chud this summer, please at least consider my advice.

Capris

Am I crazy, or do the capris kinda go hard now? It seems like every summer the shorts get longer and longer. Before, we were wearing baggy shorts, but now we’re extending them by 5cm and calling them capris. Capris are dope, but you need to wear them with a low-cut shoe. For example, a mule, loafer or even flip-flops. If you wear this with sneakers or normal shoes, you’re gonna legit look like a clown, like a literal clown. For men, I would go for a baggy silhouette, and for women, capri leggings would be good, but baggier capris could work so long as you’re on the taller side. Here are some uniqlo ones that are really cool, and another one from a smaller brand, but on the WAY more pricier side.

Flip-flops

Flip-flops are only for the summer and not for any other season or occasion. Let’s get that clear. However, flip-flops can give off the “I don’t really care about my style” vibe when paired with other cool pieces. Our goal here again is to LARP. We need people to think we’re not trying and that our style is “effortless.” For flip flops, go for black, but if you’re cheeky, do pink or some other bold, bright “summer” colour. Don’t get, like, forest green, weirdo. Honestly, I’d thrift a pair or buy them on Amazon, but if you want to go the extra mile, get the Havaianas.

Fun 2000s Tops

Alright, ladies, are we going to boycott Aritzia? Perhaps so, no more fast fashion and no more making these kids in Portugal work for rations. I don’t even know how to describe a “2000s” top, but here is some fit inspo so you get the vision. There is no single place where you can get them from, so I would recommend putting in some work and going thrifting for them. They could cost you anywhere from 5 to 15 dollars.

Henley tops

Long-sleeve thermal tops have become a staple in people’s closets, and I believe Henley tops will be something you must have in yours. I would suggest you get some that are on the more fitted side as opposed to baggier silhouettes. Henley tops are very thriftiable and typically affordable if you find them. However, there are some options at a bigger fashion conglomerate if you can’t find them at the thrift.

Long Skirts with Cool Patterns

I think when you wear a longer skirt with a smaller top, it looks really cool. To stand out and look more different, I would perhaps get one that has a cool pattern on it, like plaid or polka dots. If you can thrift these, please do so, but if you HAVE to, then I guess you could shop fast fashion, but please make sure you get use out of it.

Military Hats

Military hats are a cool alternative to your normal hats and make you look more “niche.” Don’t we all want to look “niche”? I would honestly just get it from Amazon, but if you want to splurge, Stussy has some, and I recently got one from this brand called “Fugazi.”

A Message of Hope for the Singletons

Written by Briana Perrone

They say college is where you find your future spouse. “Ring before spring”, if you will. However, many of us are graduating or going another year without a significant other. I was tasked to provide hope for these poor, unfortunate souls.

Now, some people might approach this article by offering solace and comfort: “You’ll find your person, your soulmate, don’t worry, bla bla bla.”

Is that really what you want to hear?

Instead, I say rejoice! Thank the Lord you are leaving this love-infested institution without a boyfriend or girlfriend. Fall onto your knees in gratefulness that you were spared the pains of romantic woe.

Let me give you a concise list of just a few positive things that came from being single this school year:

1. Less Financial hardship: Dates, gifts, birthdays, Christmas, Valentine’s Day, restaurants, gas, it all adds up. Instead, you were able to keep this money for yourself! Yay!

2. No relationship drama: You know when you forget to send that good morning text, and then they’re mad at you for the rest of the day? None of that, yahoo!

3. Not having to meet their family: This is actually so stressful! What if they don’t like you? What if they’re flat-earthers? What if they put their peanut butter in the fridge?

4. Strengthening platonic friendships: Spending time with friends and building those relationships is so rewarding! And you had more time to do so.

5. Independence and personal development: You’ve gotten to learn more about yourself this year and do things on your own!

“But, Briana,” your mournful voice interrupts my soliloquy, “This is great and all, but I want to date at some point in my life. I might not meet someone now that I’m leaving university!!!”

Fine, fine, fine… and for those who are graduating, I suppose I can offer some hope for the future. The thought of finding someone after college can be daunting, but you have had so much more time to grow. To figure out who you really are. Once you leave the college atmosphere, it is essential to build your community by pursuing your hobbies/interests, exploring new opportunities, and making connections at work or grad school! It will certainly not be impossible to meet people to date; it might just look different.

With that, I would like to wish all the best to our lovely Burman singles and couples as we wrap up this school year and move on to new things! :)

What Made Your Year?

Written by Briana Perrone

Wow, what a year! WE DID IT! I can’t believe it’s almost over.

I asked people on campus what their favourite part of the past 8 months was, and we got back a variety of answers!

“My favourite part of the school year was the Ubuntu presentation. I really love how therapeutic it was. I love how classy it was. And just everything about it in general.”

- Wendy Atanga

“My favourite part of the school year was definitely the new friendships I made and seeing how much I improved academically. Watching my hard work pay off this semester was really rewarding.”

- Kim Lange

“I enjoyed the Gospel choir concert on Saturday evening on March 21st. It was refreshing to hear music that has helped me through a few rough patches, presented in such a manner by the incredible singers.”

- Ruthley Faustin-Atisme

“My favourite part of the school year was definitely the banquet. The Bridgerton theme was such a fun choice, and I really enjoyed the food and the dancing. It was especially wonderful to have the opportunity to dress up and see everyone looking so elegant and simply have fun for one evening.”

- Nadia Toader

“I think my favourite part of the year was going to Banff with my friends from home!!”

- Sel Dason

“My favourite part of the school year had to be the futsal championship tournament held in Moose Jaw. It was just an experience filled with laughter and an insane amount of TikToks. But the best part of it all was the girls coming in first!”

- Faith Khamasi

“Going to the gym and chronic procrastination.”

- Alayna Moore

“My favourite part of the school year was getting involved in club activities. I finally joined some clubs this year, and being part of a team and helping organize events was definitely a highlight.”

- Dejaunn Hunter

“I loved and will miss the student solidarity of crashing out and joking together about our academic struggles. Unplanned study dates and drives were the most memorable.”

- Paulina Gomez

Pressure to Perform: Leaving the Burman Bubble

Written by Thirsa Ward

One of the loudest pressures post-grad is the expectation to succeed immediately. Once you cross the stage and flip your tassel, you should already have a job lined up, a five-year plan, a sense of purpose, and know what your life will look like. I think this idea has been especially pushed in this age of social media, where you constantly see people landing dream jobs, moving to big cities, and creating the life they want. In all honesty, it can make it feel like everyone is accelerating while you’re at a standstill. But that’s not always the case.

I think lingering, to a certain extent, is important. Staying in a place like Lacombe after grad can feel like falling behind, but it’s not necessarily a failure. It can be intentional, and I think that’s where the difference is. It can mean saving money, building a community, gaining work experience, or even giving yourself a small break after YEARS of formal education. Growth isn’t only going to happen in big cities or prestigious jobs; it can also happen in small, quiet, quaint Lacombe. And if you’re using your lingering to grow, I think you’re on the right track.

For some, the decision to stay isn’t about any of those things, but about relationships. I’ve seen many people who choose to

remain in Lacombe because of a significant other, holding tightly to something that feels stable in the middle of so much change. While I believe relationships are meaningful and worth investing in, it’s important to ask whether you’re staying out of intention or fear.

I think the same goes for taking a gap year. Despite the negative stigma that usually surrounds it, a gap year can be super helpful. You’ve just completed 4 years of university, and before that, 12 years of elementary and high school, and that’s most of your life right there! Taking a gap year offers time to reflect and explore without the constant pressure of academic or career expectations.

Alongside these pressures are quieter anxieties that we don’t always talk about. The fear of losing friendships because you no longer live 5 minutes away, the identity shift of not being a student anymore, after that being your identity for as long as you can remember. Even things like excitement can feel overwhelming when it’s paired with so many new things.

I think a big part of navigating this transition is learning how to set realistic expectations. The truth is, your first job might not be your dream job, or maybe it will be! You might have to move back home or change directions completely. None of that is a sign you’ve failed, but that you’re starting something new. Success after graduation isn’t one thing; it can look different for everyone.

What’re Your Plans This Summer?

Written by Justin Pandala

“Camp Woody Acres. Lots of sleep too.” – Noah Kroeker

“Accounting internship in Ponoka” - Sandra Glover

“I’m going to Japan.”

- Jannin Rey

“Uh, I don’t know, I don’t have summer plans.” - Aaron Park

“Outside. I’m going to the Calgary Stampede” – Sabrina Nwaribe

“I’m fighting wildfires in the Yukon” – Nathan Omuvwie

“I’m going to BC for the Ubuntu tour, then I’m going to Mexico with my family for my sisters bday, then I’m going to Brazil for the mission trip, then gonna chill with my family while I still have them”

- Kyle Bacalso

“Camp Woody Acres. And travelling.” – Joyce Nana

“My summer plans are to go home, enjoy life and miss all my friends here at Burman” - Farai Bwanali

“Working front desk Lakeview” - Kelon Lewis

“I don’t know. No no no work”

- Yok Taweeyanyongkul

“First two weeks, I’m staying in Red Deer to help out my grandpa. After that, BC for a couple of weeks. And then home to California.”

– Cooper Bell

“Working at Camp Frenda and going to Montreal for a week. And then Michigan for my brother’s graduation.” - Lavelle Godsoe

“Basically just jobs and working” - Ram Aranda

“Why are you interviewing me” - Paradise Lee

“I’m going to Foothills Camp. I’m the water director” - Joshua Wiebe

“I’m going to Ontario” - Keani Bacalso

“Working at Camp Frenda and going to the beach to get nice and brown” - Keira Paglia

“Brazil mission trip, choir tour, work at Mountain View Summer Camp, starting running, biking, hiking and bouldering, oh and hanging out with friends”

- Myroslava Matsiuk

“Mountain View Summer Camp (as a camper)” - Angela Bruce

“I have a teaching internship lined up with Kingsway, after that, I have a camp counsellor position”

– Daniel Dowe

KITCHEN NIGHTMARESBurman Edition

I recently had a nightmare where I invited Gordon Ramsay to our cafeteria. He didn’t make it halfway there before he actually crashed out. If Gordon were standing here at Burman, the provincial health inspectors wouldn’t just close the kitchen; they’d probably exorcise it.

This breakfast doesn't nourish you; it simply seals your internal organs together for the day.

Gordon is currently slamming a pancake against the counter like a frisbee, screaming at the toaster: “It’s a fossil! You’re serving prehistoric remains to students! And these eggs? It’s not a breakfast, it’s a plumbing disaster! Don’t just stand there like a big muffin! Throw the lot in the bin and start over!”

heat. If I see another new Mexican-inspired pile of sadness that is just haystacks in disguise, I’m going to lose it.

Gordon would be shocked: He’d be slamming his hand on the counter: “three times a week?! It’s a conveyor belt of laziness. Where’s the lamb sauce? Actually, forget lamb sauce. Where is the creativity?”

If you like your sausage grey, rubbery, and suspiciously wet, you’re a stronger person than me. This isn’t a sausage, it’s a mystery tube that causes actual anger issues. Why is it wet and grey you may ask? Why does it have the texture of a water balloon filled with wet cardboard? It’s the kind of meal that makes you want to walk into the kitchen and ask them if they’ve actually seen a sausage before, or if they just had one described to them by someone who hates food.

Gordon is currently poking the mystery tube with a fork, watching it jiggle with a look of pure disgust:

“It’s a biohazard! It’s grey, it’s wet, and it looks like it’s been boiled in a car wash! It’s a disgrace to every banger ever served in a British pub. Put a fireman’s uniform on and walk past this fire because it’s a total disaster!”

This is the last semester’s peak comedy. We’re talking 3-day-old beans, soggy tater tots, and ice-cold mashed potatoes shoved all into one dish. It’s a Frankenstein monster that belongs in a lab, not a stomach. As a student I interviewed said: it’s a “smorgasbord of bittersweet” with a “heavy hint of regret”. It’s the culinary equivalent of a midterm exam you didn’t study for: a total disaster.

Gordon’s reaction:

“It disassembles itself on the plate because the food is embarrassed to be seen with you! Don’t take it personally, just take it seriously!” If you can’t make a Shepherd’s Pie that stays together, you shouldn't be wearing the whites. You should be wearing an apron that reads "I Give Up." It’s an insult to every shepherd in the UK!"

If this article doesn’t resonate with you and you actually find the food delicious, then be happy! Seriously. Because for the rest of us, we’re out here having to order food every other day just to survive, and it's getting expensive. If you aren’t eating a burger or poutine, you’re playing Russian Roulette with your taste buds.

STUDENT OR RAMSAY MINI QUIZ

"FILET MIGNON? MORE LIKE I’M CRYING ON." (STUDENT)

"IT’S 'WATER AND GLUE' SERVED IN A BOWL." (STUDENT)

"HONESTLY, I WOULD RATHER EAT DOG FOOD." (STUDENT)

"MY GRAN COULD DO BETTER! AND SHE’S DEAD!" (GORDON RAMSAY)

"IT’S A SMORGASBORD OF BITTERSWEET WITH A HEAVY HINT OF REGRET." (STUDENT)

"THIS IS A BIOLOGICAL HAZARD! SHUT IT DOWN!" (GORDON RAMSAY)

I’VE NEVER, EVER, EVER, EVER, EVER MET SOMEONE I BELIEVE IN AS LITTLE AS YOU." (GORDON RAMSAY)

Professor Feature

Dr. Dadria Lewis

Learn about Dr. Dadria Lewis, a woman who wears many hats, including being a wife, mum, professor, and entrepreneur, bringing expertise and joy to the psychology department and community of Burman University.

Interviewed by Bronwyn Christison

Q: How did you end up teaching at Burman?

A: My husband came here to teach, so he applied to teach at Burman, and we came as a family. And then a year later, a job opportunity opened up here in the psychology department, and I applied and was employed.

Q: Where are you from, and can you share with us something from your culture that you love?

A: I am from the wonderful, lovely island of Jamaica, and I love our people, storytelling, and the way we just describe events and/or jocularity. We love to joke, where we look at life, and we have this idea of taking serious things and making them fun. And we also have a saying, “If I don’t laugh, I will cry.” So we prefer to laugh than to cry about the situation. It’s a way to reframe a situation in a more positive light, where we could laugh about it instead of crying about it.

Q: What are some of your favourite classes to teach at Burman this year?

A: I like the application courses overall. Pre-marital counselling and behaviour mod.

Q: How long have you been teaching at Burman for?

A: Fall of 2020. I came in during COVID, when everybody was online.

Q: Do you like sweet or salty food?

A: I like combining them, actually!

Q: If you could be a pro at any sport, what would you choose and why?

A: Netball. It’s a team sport, and it’s mostly females who play. So it’s this team of women playing together in this athletic expression.

Q: I heard that you started a new counselling job. How are you finding it?

A: Starting anything new is challenging, and starting is slow, especially if you’re starting a business. It’s starting very slowly, and I need to build it out so that more people know about me. That’s the process I’m in right now. Trying to get myself introduced into different spaces and places so that people know I exist and that I will get referrals and recommendations. It’s in that early infancy stage. As I said, I like the practical courses that I teach in the application courses. So this is the piece of me that I’m giving breath to right now; that piece that turns what I knew into practice.

Q: What is a tip for students trying to manage work/life balance?

A: Figure out the priorities in each area. What’s most important? Ensure that you’re trying to keep track of it. The stage of life I’m in right now, I have to make a lot of lists! If I’m not making lists, then things fall through the cracks. Balancing work/life is making lists, keeping track of things, and prioritizing what’s most important. And then letting go of what can’t be done! That’s been one

of the hardest things because I’m a perfectionist and I like to get everything done and do everything. I’ve been on this growth journey where I ask myself, “What do I say no to and be okay with saying no to?” and “What’s most important that needs to get done?” Also, ensuring I do things that re-energize me so I can work and be present as a mom. I also need to ensure that I’m spending time with God, doing something fun, and feeding myself. I can’t say that I’m perfect, but in theory, that’s the goal that I am striving for.

Q: What would you tell someone who’s interested in being a counsellor?

A: It’s a journey. And it’s going to take a lot of self-reflection, a lot of work, not only academic and technical work, but personal work. Because it’s generally built into the academics, you’re also exploring and examining yourself, because you become the tool you use to walk alongside people in their healing. So your tool has to be examined, explored, and checked for areas that need sanding and sharpening. I would suggest that you do your own therapy.

Q: Would you rather be Dr. Samraj for the day or Dr. Pekka?

A: Samraj.

Q: Would you rather always have to wear your shirt backwards in class or when the ads play, have them play on full volume?

A: I’d prefer to wear my shirt backwards. I can’t do the ads. I’d say it’s the style! It’s a fashion choice.

Freshmen Feelings

Written by Bronwyn Christison

Want to hear from five freshmen on how their first year went? Read their thoughts and feelings about whether their first year met their expectations or not!

“Fun, tiring, cool, lots of friends, many things to do, and nice teachers. I would rate it a 9/10. Especially as an international student, there was a lot to follow up on. Some things, especially my studies and grades, met my expectations. Other things were quite strange to me at first sight.”

~ Yok

“I would rate my BU experience so far a 9/10. It’s been really great meeting a bunch of people and making lots of friends, but the homework and assignments are really time-consuming. I felt this year exceeded my expectations. I thought it would kinda be horrible the whole time, but it’s actually been really fun and studying is kinda fun!”

~ Amy

“I would give it an 8/10. I’m an international student, so the transition for me hasn’t only been from high school to college. It’s also been moving to an entirely different country with a culture that is new to me. I’ve learned lots of lessons this year, and I’ve met so many new people and made lots of new memories. The only thing I didn’t enjoy as much was the occasional cloudy/snowy weather. I love how it gets sunny sometimes, though. I also wish I did some things differently, but other than that, my freshman year at Burman has been litty!! I think my first year met my expectations. I imagined my first year to be a time where I would get to hike mountains with friends and just do a bunch of fun things with people, and that’s what I got this year. Something that caught me off guard,

though, is how much of an influence extracurricular activities have here at Burman. I did not think there would be so many clubs and activities to participate in besides school. So yeah, one thing I’m gonna take forward into my next year would be to balance my time and to have fun!”

~ Aden Sundaresan (Sean)

“I was expecting Burman to be lowkey boring, and Burman was not my top choice, obviously. But since being at Burman, I couldn’t actually imagine myself anywhere else. I’ve gotten to know so many amazing people. I have met truly incredible friends, and I’ve also just found myself becoming a part of the actual community here, and I’m so internally grateful for it. There’s been a lot of personal growth. There have been some friendships that have not stayed with me, and then other friendships have grown a lot stronger, and I’m honestly so grateful for the good, the bad, the ugly. Burman, 1st year, I’m proud that I’ve made it through, and I’m honestly really glad of what Burman was able to give me.”

~ Neve

“My 1st year at Burman went… not as I expected. I did not expect to become so involved in the community and make so many friends. I thought Burman would be very small, and I would know people, but I didn’t realize how many friends I’d actually have at Burman, what community I’d be part of, or how many opportunities I’d be given. I’m just really grateful for all the friendships and all the people that I’ve met, and I think that’s one of the greatest things about being at Burman is the people.”

~ Julianna

Any Last Words?

Oh Yeahhh :) Another year comes to an end, and what a joyous year it was! Thank you, Emma and team, for such a great chronicle year :) To everyone, please please please have a great summer because before you know it, I’ll see you come September. LOVE YOU, stay awesome!

- Teresa Bruce

It’s been fun.

- Ren <3

Yippee!

- Prince

WE MADE IT WOOOOO, thanks to everyone who was a part of this great newspaper team!

- Briana

My last words is like a gabagool’d and a little mortadella and like a “hey wise guy” and maybe a sprinkle of like “Hey Tony”

- Martin

Thank you to everyone for such a great year! Shoutout to Emma and the entire Chronicle team. (Whoever the editor is next year, please hire me again, I’m begging you)

- Justin Pandala

Hiihii ya’ll! So fun being part of an amazing Chronicles team :)

Have a fabulous summer!

- Bron

Thank you all for giving us a place to share our voices, and for reading the articles! Being on this team with an amazing editor (shout out Emma!) will definitely be a highlight in my university time :)

- Thirsa

It’s been a really amazing year with the most amazing people, and it was way more fun than I expected. I really can’t wait to see what happens next year!

- Melissa