M O D A
SPRING PRINT 2025
FLOUR AND FLEUR BAKING WITH B O TA N I C A L S A N D BLOSSOMS
BLOSSOMS WITH POWER THE TENACIOUS POLITICAL S Y M B O L I S M T H AT C O M E S F R O M
THE
FLORAL SYMBOLS
Efflorescent ISSUE
SPRING 2025
T E A M EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Noa Chamberlin CREATIVE DIRECTOR Rayyan Bhatti INTERNAL RELATIONS DIRECTOR Kayla Hendrikse PUBLIC RELATIONS DIRECTOR Maggie Boettinger CULTURE EDITOR Kate Reuscher ARTS EDITOR Cate Tarr LIFESTYLE EDITOR Mi Chuinda Levy FASHION EDITOR Reese Diethrich ONLINE EDITOR Maddy Scharrer WRITERS Noa Chamberlin • Sophie Corsaro • Elise Daczko • Reese Diethrich • James Fox • Alyna Hildenbrand • Talia Horn • Ally Jonas • Mi Chuinda Levy • Makaylah Maxwell • Marceya Polinger-Hyman • Josie Purisch • Cate Tarr • G Sorenson • Hayes Sullivan • Adelaide Taylor
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PHOTOGRAPHY LEADS Molly Claus Paige Valley GRAPHIC AND ILLUSTRATION LEAD Breanna Dunworth STYLING LEAD Sydney Alston SHOOT PRODUCTION LEADS Molly Ford Ava Putnam VIDEOGRAPHY LEADS Thea Fonstad Shloka Mohanty ART Elise Daczko • Breanna Dunworth • Payton Fuller • Natalie Khmelevsky • Kira Lee • Xander Wilcox PHOTOGRAPHY Molly Claus • Heidi Falk • Lilianna Munoz • Mary Richards • Maya Stegner • Paige Valley SHOOT DIRECTION AND STYLING Sydney Alston • Kaitlyn Ard • Ella Bartkowski • Molly Claus • Zoey Corsaro • Molly Ford • Dorian Jones • Nour Kanan • Ava Putnam
MODELS Katie Axelson • Ruby Bergstrom • Avali Bratberg • Noa Chamberlin • Vivan Dufek • Thea Fonstad • Haina Glarek • Michaela Hamilton • Kendall Haviland • Dorian Jones • Nour Kanan • Saige Kearns • Natalie Khmelevsky • Joy Kim • Abigail Martin • Erika Mendes • Kayla Montag • Jenna Schnabel • Harper Sollish • Eva Wickbold
TABLE
OF
C U LT U R E
06 If a Tree Falls Will Anyone Hear It
An exploration of the recent endangerment of national parks and forests
CONTENTS LIFESTYLE
14 Four Years of Flowering
Seasons of blooming at UW-Madison
30 Flower Power Is Back
18 Flour and Fleur
44 Blossoms of Power
34 Connecting with Nature
How 1970s culture manifests itself all around us today
The tenacious political symbolism that comes from floral symbols
Baking with botanicals and blossoms
Things to do and places to see in Madison
46 Nature Over Noise
Creating a trip beneficial to you and the Earth
FA S H I O N Florals For Spring, Groundbreaking...
08 It's Time to Rebel
50 In Full Bloom
A journey through four years of self-discovery, navigating the challenges of change and
The freedom of the undone grunge flower child style Leopard Print: The "Not-So-Wild"
22 Wild Card
Spotting the power in print
ARTS
13 The Beauty of Ephemeral Art
The importance of appreciating the nonpermanent
F E AT U R E D
32 From the Sun, I Become 42 Spring Trend Report 48 The Efflorescent Issue Video
20 Let's Get Messy
How Lola Young’s self-acceptance anthem redefines perfection
27 The Transcendental Power of Music How music transforms my daily life
36 The Depth of a Flower Flowers as a symbol of transcendence 40 Insignificant Instances
How “Boyhood” gives meaning to the mundane moments in Madison SPRING 2025
LETTER FROM THE EDITOR
The Beauty of Blooming Dear readers,
I’ve put off writing this letter until the very last minute—not because I didn’t know what to say, but because this is my final letter from the editor for Moda Magazine. As a senior in my final weeks of undergrad, the reality of closing this chapter is setting in. And while it’s scary, it also feels poetic. I owe so much of my personal blooming to this publication. Moda has been a space where I’ve planted roots, discovered my voice and grown in ways I didn’t know I was capable of. Watching this magazine evolve—and contributing to that evolution—has been one of the greatest joys of my college experience. So what better theme to end on than Efflorescent? By definition, “efflorescent” is the action or process of developing and unfolding as if coming into flower. I know, I know—florals for spring? Groundbreaking. (to quote Miranda Priestly.) But here, we’ve taken that cliché and transformed it into something much deeper. This issue isn’t just about flowers—it’s about growth. It’s about the ways we bloom in response to the world around us, and the ways nature, in turn, reflects our own transformations. In her piece “The Beauty of Ephemeral Art,” Sophie Corsaro invites us to rethink our relationship to art and impermanence. She explores natural, fleeting creations—ephemeral art—and reminds us to appreciate beauty in the moment, knowing it won’t last forever. G Sorenson takes a symbolic approach in “Blossoms of Power,” tracing the history of flowers as tools for protest, identity and resilience. From the Flower Power movement to lavender as an LGBTQ+ symbol, Sorenson reminds us that blooming can be bold, and beauty can be political. In “Four Years of Flowering,” Fashion Editor Reese Diethrich reflects on her college journey through the lens of blooming. Her piece is an emotional and honest look at growth, endings and the promise of beginning again as a new seedling. This issue aims to examine the many ways we bloom—through nature, through pain, through joy, through change. Whether you’re finishing your first year of college or your last, each of us is entering a new stage of growth. And that’s something to celebrate. Thank you for letting me grow with you. Signing off for the last time, in full bloom,
Noa Chamberlin Editorial Director
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SPRING 2025
CULTURE
If A Tree Falls, Will Anyone Hear It? MODA | 6
O
n March 1, 2025, a tree fell in Tongass National Forest and no one heard it.
The thunderous roar of the specialized tractor engine drowned out the sweet chirping of the varied thrush. With the lift of its towering arm, the machine eclipsed the light dance of the leaves swaying in the winter breeze. The artificial din drove the local animals from their homes with no time for a quick goodbye, and no chance of returning to their homes again. With a high-pitched, rhythmic buzz and a terrible thud, the irreversible damage was done. The growth of centuries was stunted and stolen, leaving behind nothing but a sawed-off stump, a home diminished to dust in a matter of hours. The deforestation and logging of Alaska’s Tongass National Forest, the largest U.S. national forest, is not an isolated event. Beginning in the late 19th century, the timber harvest of U.S. forests and parks initiated the first waves of contemporary deforestation, resulting in the leveling of more than twothirds of American forests by 1920.1 This steady surge in deforestation led to Frederick Law Olmsted’s 1865 proposal of national parks, or preserves, as natural spaces legally protected from logging and timber harvesting.2 On March 1, 1872, President Ulysses S. Grant signed the Yellowstone National Park Act into law, making Yellowstone the first national park of many we know and love today. Since this landmark decision, national parks and forests have dramatically altered how Americans interact with and appreciate nature. In 2024 alone, the National Park Service recorded more than 331 million visits to US national parks.3 While national parks and forests are often acknowledged as beloved destinations to explore nature’s beauty, their original intent of protecting the wilderness has been heavily diminished in today’s tense political climate.
1 Whit Bronaugh, “North American Forests in the Age of Man,” American Forests. 2 Frederick Law Olmsted, “Olmsted Report on Management of Yosemite,” National Park Service, 1865. 3 National Park Service, “Visitation Numbers,” 2025.
On March 1, less than two months into his second term, President Donald J. Trump signed an executive order to immediately expand domestic timber production in national forests and other public lands.4 President Trump plans to change how the Endangered Species Act and other federal environmental policies affect timber production and forest management. These federal policies currently prevent species endangerment and habitat displacement, and bypassing these protections poses serious threats to the lives of the native plants and animals of the U.S. national forests. But native species are not the only ones endangered. As of February 20, the U.S. Forest Service announced plans to fire 3,475 employees nationwide—about 17% of their staff—due to budget cuts from the Department of Government Efficiency, according to Matt Brossard, general vice president of the Forest Service Council with the National Federation of Federal Employees.5 A month later, after recent court orders, the National Park Service reinstated 1,000 previously fired employees, but it is unclear if the park service is still in danger of future layoffs.6 These National Park Service employees work diligently to help preserve the resources of national forests and parks while also keeping them clean and accessible for visitors. With pushes for increased timber production coupled with layoffs of federal employees, national forests could face limited access to trails, reduced park hours and permanent damage to the ecosystems many species depend on for survival. This endangerment of national parks and forests arrives at a time when Americans appear to need them the most. After the Covid-19 pandemic led to multiple park closures in 2020, there has been a general rise in outdoor tourism, with national parks receiving a record amount of visits in 2024.7 For citizens like Katarina Takahashi of Longmont, Colorado, national parks 4 The White House, “Fact Sheet: President Donald J. Trump Rapidly Expands Timber Production,” 2025. 5 Danielle Kaeding, “‘It’s illegal’: Federal workers in Wisconsin fired amid nationwide layoffs,” Wisconsin Watch, 2025. 6 Jaclyn Cosgrove, “1,000 Park Workers Who Were Fired in DOGE Cuts Are Reinstated,” 2025. 7 National Park Service, “Visitation Numbers,” 2025.
served as a stress-reliever during the height of the pandemic. “It’s a very refreshing time to be outdoors, to get the health benefits of exercising, be in the sunshine, and get away as well from the anxiety I’ve felt, that we’re all feeling, about the virus,” said Takahashi, in regards to her visit to Rocky Mountain National Park.8 For others, such as Megan Delaney of Montclair, New Jersey, national parks offered solace in the face of general restrictions that forced many to stay indoors, quarantined. While crowded, public spaces were unsafe, nature provided an outlet for restlessness and allowed for the exploration of nature’s beauty in the process. “I suspect that this is helping us maintain our need for connection, something likely we are all craving,” said Delaney.9 In my own life, national forests and parks have been my comfort places since youth. My early childhood years were filled with family hikes in Kettle Moraine State Forest, gripping my father’s hand with my head tilted towards the sky, wondering if I would someday grow as tall as the flourishing pine trees that towered over us. Although I have grown, I still find myself walking through these forests, possessed by the same childlike sense of wonder. But in the back of my mind, anxiety has begun to invade this tranquility, threatening me with the bleak image of what my life would be like if we continue to deprioritize the care of our natural wonders. Nature effortlessly generates admiration, but future generations will only have the opportunity to experience this same awe-inspiring beauty if we do our part to preserve and protect the parks we have come to know and love. Support your local parks and forests by visiting and simply showing appreciation for the land. For as long as trees continue to fall at the hands of our leaders, we cannot let them go unheard by our civilians. 8 Brady McCombs and James Anderson, “National Parks Are Free, But Some Oppose That Amid the Outbreak,” PBS, 2020. 9 Megan Delaney, “Nature Helps Us Connect While We Are Socially Distant,” Psychology Today, 2020.
SPRING 2025
FASHION
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Florals For Spring, Groundbreaking… It’s Time to Rebel The freedom of the undone grunge flower child style Written by Marceya Polinger-Hyman, Staff Writer | Photography by Lilianna Munoz, Creative Team | Shoot Direction by Sydney Alston, Styling Lead | Styling by Zoey Corsaro, Creative Team | Modeled by Michaela Hamilton, Vivan Dufek and Kendall Haviland
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e’ve all seen it a million times. Whether it’s at Bergdorf’s, Brandy Melville or even Target, the floral-patterned spring dress is an unavoidable basic as soon as it hits April. But is this the only way to capture the essence of spring? What if you crave a dark, sexy, feminine aura—something a colorful and joyous floral print dress just can’t deliver? Honestly, it’s time to rebel.
There is a power to the grungy, hippie-chic style. It feels less uptight, more detached from the societal pressures that constantly loom over us. Known for its disheveled, raw aesthetic, this look embraces loose, flowy fabrics, layered textures and vintage finds. Unlike the bright, polished florals of a traditional spring dress, the florals in this style are muted, faded and intentionally worn-in. Earth-toned, airy fabrics ground the look, creating a sense of connection to nature and a raw expression of individuality.
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SPRING 2025
The flower-like shape and delicate floral lace details in these pieces emphasize our connection to the natural world and its power. Rather than relying on printed florals, the fabric’s aura and the way the cloth drapes across the body transform the wearer into the floral beauty itself, radiating an ethereal, almost divine energy. In the 1960s, the “flower child” image and flower child-grunge style emerged due to the hippie movement. The style promotes the concepts of peace, love and nonconformity. Many embraced fashion choices as a way to reject the traditional prim and proper style of the 1950s. This bohemian lifestyle challenged the social constraints of capitalism and government control and was a response to the Vietnam War.1 One of the biggest influences on this style was the popularity of psychedelic rock bands such as The Beatles and The Grateful Dead, who further reinforced this rebellious image.2 During the “Flower Power” movement, the iconic flower came to symbolize peace, nature and innocence. This imagery appeared in countless forms— tucked into hair as flower crows, strung into necklaces, woven into delicate lace or printed as simple floral patterns on clothing. Though seemingly simple, the incorporation of these floral details carried a powerful message: a romanticized embrace of freedom. It’s no surprise that this style remains deeply embedded in festival culture today. Music festivals such as Coachella celebrate the “flower child” aesthetic on a massive, public scale. Music intertwined with the wild energy and the flowy desert style perfectly captures the carefree spirit that defined the 1960s. But truthfully, the grungy “flower child” style is more than just a flowy skirt or a flower headband—it is a lifestyle. It mirrors a powerful symbol for peace and freedom, embodying the true beauty of rebellion.
1 Sarah Pruitt, “How the Vietnam War Empowered the Hippie Movement,” History, September 14, 2018. 2 Simon Frith, “Folk Rock, The Hippie Movement, and “The Rock Paradox,” Britannica, March 21, 2025.
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ARTS
The Beauty of Ephemeral Art The importance of appreciating the non-permanent Written by Sophie Corsaro, Staff Writer
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hen asked to think of “art,” most people picture a museum full of marble statues, paintings or photographs. Each of these traditional art mediums has one thing in common: permanence. They can be displayed for eternity, ensuring that the artist’s craft will last for a very long time.
"Once ephemeral art has been experienced, it no longer exists anywhere besides your memory."
However, art can take many forms, many of which do not value permanence. Ephemeral art is a term that refers to art that can only exist for a short amount of time and is captured lation made with natural elements that and experienced in a specific moment.1 tell a story or create something new. This can include a variety of art forms such as performance pieces, graffiti, Andy Goldsworthy, a land artist based in Scotland, views nature as the makeup and land art. co-creator of his work.3 When his art Though having your work last forev- pieces remain intact, he interprets er may seem intuitive to many artists, this to mean his art was meant to stay ephemeral art reflects the beauty of and add to the environment. However, the fleeting moments of life in a way when his art is “destroyed” by natural that permanent art cannot. Once causes, he also values this removal as a ephemeral art has been experienced, natural process representing the beauit no longer exists anywhere besides ty of change and the passage of time. your memory, mirroring many of our Goldsworthy, in addition to many othexperiences in life. er land artists, uses art to highlight the One of the most popular inspirations need for environmental conservation, of ephemeral art is nature due to its as the world without nature would give inherently ephemeral status. Nature way to a boring and bleak landscape. has been a subject of art since some of the earliest documented art: cave Ephemeral art has existed for cenpaintings.2 In modern day, mediums turies and is still present in cultures like photography, paintings and sculp- around the world. For example, raking tures are used to capture nature’s is a Japanese artistic practice that involves making intricate patterns in the transitory beauty. sand using rakes or sticks. A long-held Flowers blooming at the start of spring, practice, raking is usually found in Japcotton candy sunsets over a lake or a anese dry gardens (枯山水), more comsolar eclipse are all natural phenomena monly known as zen gardens, where it that leave the witnesses in awe. Their also functions as a meditation pracbeauty feels especially extraordinary tice.4 because these moments only occur for a limited time, constantly changing as Ephemeral art also aids itself to more current traditions such as the “Tapis they unfold. de Fleurs de Bruxelles,” or Flower CarOne type of ephemeral art that is created directly into a landscape is land 3 Alex Cohen, “Andy Goldsworthy: Coart. Land art is a non-permanent instal- Authorship With the Earth through Land Art,” 1 “Ephemeral Art,” Tate. 2“History of Art | Looking at Nature,” Sessions College.
TheCollector, published August 7, 2023. 4 Adrian Reynolds, “Exploring the World of Ephemeral Art: A Transient Beauty,” Adrian Reynolds, published April 20, 2023.
pet of Brussels.5 This is a large floral display that the city has created since 1971 with artists and designers from all over the world, located in the heart of Brussels during the anniversary of the city’s founding.6 Every year, the display showcases a different design, honoring different cultures, people or places around the world. Even though the art piece and celebration only last a few days, the beauty of this spectacle will live on through those lucky enough to see it. While ephemeral art can take many forms, its takeaway remains the same. The short window available to see its beauty helps people appreciate the transient nature of life itself and all of its beautiful things. Learning to value this type of art can help us be more present in the moment and not take what we are experiencing for granted. No matter what an artist’s intended message was when they created their art, all ephemeral art has the power to add infinite appreciation to the simple and fleeting moments in our lives. While framed paintings in a museum may be one’s first association with art, broadening our perspective of what art can look like allows us to gain so much more from artists and the natural beauty that exists all around us.
5 Cynthia Close, “10 Ephemeral Art Experiences,” Art & Object, published March 8, 2021. 6 Ibid.
SPRING 2025
LIFESTYLE
Four Years of Flowering
Seasons of blooming at UW-Madison
Written by Reese Diethrich, Fashion Editor
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Photography by Paige Valley, Photography Lead | Shoot Direction by Molly Ford, Shoot Production Lead | Modeled by Joy Kim SPRING 2025
A
flower’s beauty lies in its limitation: an inability to remain in perpetual full bloom. It’s unfortunate how fleeting that moment of fluorescence truly is. It is a delicate interlude where a violet or lily is at its zenith, opening itself up for the world’s amazement, perfumed and vibrant with color. When staring at a bouquet, we all recognize that we must fully appreciate it before the petals fall. Just as flowers follow a cycle, allowing themselves to rotate through seasons of growth, we do as well.
As I write my final Moda article and exit these pivotal four years, I find myself viewing my college experience in a similar vein. We cannot be flourishing at all moments. I am unable nor meant to bloom in every stage of my life and I would not want to. Moving away from home four years ago meant starting a brand new cycle of growth. I was now a seed, a tiny thing in a larger field. Clueless in which direction to turn, the only path was embracing the unknown. I endlessly wish I could go back and tell my freshman-year self that she is at the beginning of some of the best years of her life. It was not always picturesque or delicate, but planting myself in uncomfortable situations was the catalyst for unimaginable flourishing. The people I met in college formed an even more expansive garden of beauty around me. Call it pollination, the subtle nurturing from those around you as they provide what you need to grow. Finding community on campus has been essential for my survival and pivotal in navigating the growing pains of adolescence. Every person I’ve met in these four years has made my view of the world and myself more robust. Because I chose to surround myself with those who also struggled to handle the seasons of their lives, we have been able to help one another. I am nothing without the people who watered the soil and ensured I received enough sunlight. With maturation comes wilting, and wilting always felt fatal. Every setback, heartbreak and disappointment seemed catastrophic. However, these periods of wilting are what I feel most grateful for. Not only are they always a momentary stepping stone and not a final destination, but the wilts and
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crumbles of my last four years made my roots stronger.
ing of years passing in the blink of an eye are simply part of a germination period. A temporary, necessary step in a long Hardships helped me learn to follow in cycle of becoming someone new the footsteps of flowers and engage in again. Someone stronger, who can heliotropism, the tendency to move to- withstand harsh winters and conward sunlight. With every moment of tinuously turn her head toward trouble, I found a way to face the sun, the sunlight. embrace optimism and find moments of warmth in the people and little joys In saying farewell to Moda around me. To wilt is to grow. and my time in Madison, I accept that this radiant peAnd then there is blooming, and what a riod of efflorescence has joy it is to feel like you are in full bloom. passed, but my time to The vibrance, the unbridled hope and bloom once more is the confidence that comes when you only a season away. know you’ve overcome difficulty is unlike any other feeling. Like flowers, its beauty is in its limited duration. If I was consistently successful, overjoyed and excitable, what makes the feeling special? The memories I have in Madison are only memorable because they are rare. The cycle makes the moments of bloom celebratory. It feels as though, in seconds, I am a seedling again. The discomfort I feel of the unknown future and the mourn-
SPRING 2025
LIFESTYLE
T
here is something enchanting about the way flowers bloom, unfolding into vibrant symbols of beauty within life and growth. This act of developing and flowering is known as efflorescence.1 However, efflorescence is not exclusive to nature—it can be found and admired from the kitchen too. Baking with florals and botanicals offers a unique way to appreciate nature, inviting an element of experimentation that can include fragrance, flavor and visual elevation into every creation.
Flowers and botanicals have played a long-lasting role in enhancing various cultural cuisines. Middle Eastern cuisine often incorporates rose water into its pastries, drink and foods, adding a very delicate floral flare.2 Lavender, a household essential in Mediterranean cuisine, adds a subtle yet sophisticated note.3 Meanwhile, florals like Jamaica (also known as hibiscus) is frequently used in Latin American pasties and sweet drinks and it brings a sharp, berry-like tartness.4 All of these floral fusions have withstood the test of time and they showcase the seamless harmony between nature and food.
ingredients that can have associations to health, wellness and sustainable sourcing practices.6 From the adornment of pressed flowers in shortbreads to crystallized petals meticulously placed onto cakes and pies, there is an undeniable allure with botanical baking. It is the happy corner where taste and aesthetic intersect. Florals and botanicals pair well with a wide range of ingredients. Below are a few notable pairings.
Basil and black berry: Basil adds an
herbaceous bite that compliments the fresh fruitiness blackberries hold. This would be the perfect flavor combination for scones or rich desserts like panna cottas.
Lavender and lemon: Lavender imparts a deep floral note that balances nicely with the sharpness that citrus brings. This is a wonderful pairing for cake, cookies and scones. If you’re looking to add in a more mellow sweetness, honey works perfectly with this combination!
Orange blossom and dark chocOver the last few years, botanical bak- olate: Orange blossom is a floral that
ing has experienced a resurgence in its popularity among both home bakers and professional pastry chefs.5 Why? Well, in addition to their delectable flavor complexity, botanicals have also gained appeal for being recognizable 1 “Efflorescence Definition & Meaning,” MerriamWebster. 2 Max Falkowitz, “Spice Hunting: Rose Water,” Serious Eats, February 26, 2020. 3 “Learn How to Cook with Lavender, plus 10 Recipes That Use Culinary Lavender - 2025,” MasterClass. 4 Regina Campos, “The Flower with a Thousand Uses, Jamaica: Recipes and Origin,” Lolo, February 20, 2024. 5 “Spring’s Hottest Trend: Botanicals in Bakery and Patisserie,” Spring’s hottest trend: botanicals in bakery and patisserie.
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brings a bright, citrusy note similar to that of an orange and it does a magnificent job lifting up the deep decadence of dark chocolate. This combination is ideal for cakes, éclairs and cookies.
Elderflower and strawberry: Elderflower has a slightly floral fragrance that enhances the natural sweetness of strawberries. This light and airy pairing would work like a dream in a mousse or macaron. Lately, I have been experimenting with more botanicals in my own baking, and there are two things that I found 6 Ibid.
quite challenging—balancing flavors and incorporating the florals in a manner that did not disrupt my standard recipes. Below are a few of my favorite ways I’ve learned to bring in my floral and botanical elements.
Infuse: Soak florals or botanicals in liquids you’ll use in the dessert like melted butter, cream or syrups.
Crystalize: Gently coat the floral or botanical in egg whites and sugar.
Press: Place florals between parchment paper and sandwich the flowers under a heavy object and allow them to dry. When working with botanicals, I learned the hard way that subtlety is key. The last thing you want is to bite into a floral-infused treat and feel like you’re eating potpourri. My best advice? Taste individual components along the way. When infusing, start with a few minutes, assess the taste, then steep for longer if you desire a stronger flavor. Remember, you can always add more florals, but you can’t take them away! Overall, I’ve found that baking with florals is a reflection of both nature’s beauty and the journey of creativity. Just as flowers take time to bloom, perfecting botanical baking is a process of patience and discovery. It’s all about finding harmony—between flavor and fragrance, aesthetics, trial and refinement. Like many good things in life, it often takes a few tries before you get it just right. Whether infusing lavender into a honey glaze or pressing petals onto a sugar cookie, each floral creation is a celebration of nature, artistry and unique personal expression.
Flour and Fleur Baking with botanicals and blossoms
Written by Mi Chuinda Levy, Lifestyle Editor | Graphic by Xander Wilcox, Creative Team
SPRING 2025
ARTS
Let’s Get Messy
How Lola Young’s self-acceptance anthem redefines perfection Written by Talia Horn, Assistant Arts Editor | Photography by Maya Stegner, Creative Team | Shoot Direction by Heidi Falk, Photography Lead | Modeled by Harper Sollish
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elcome to the “clean girl” era: All girls should dress nicely. All girls should act kindly. All girls should eat balanced and healthy. All girls are perfect. All girls are clean. Bored yet? We know Lola Young is.
simply say she isn’t perfect; rather, in the first stanza, she dives directly into proclaiming “I’m not skinny, and I pull a Britney like every other week.” The specificity and pure vulnerability of this phrase sets the tone for the rest of the song.
to use the lyrics of the song to acknowledge one’s own faults in their respective fields or showcase loving themselves despite not fitting into their archetypes. Being messy means daring to try something new—like wearing the dress you worry might be “too much,” or failing an exam but still showing up for the next one. Many TikTokers posted their own specific examples of “being messy” on their social media accounts. At its core, every interpretation of “being messy” boils down to the same idea: perfection doesn’t define us. It’s an abstract concept that suffocates us.
Lola Young, the British pop sensation, Her words are brazen, honest and, released her hit single “Messy” in Octo- most importantly, angry. Beyond its reber 2024, and it has taken the internet freshing openness about Young’s own by storm since. The anthem calls out faults, the song also serves as an outcontradictory and suffocating societal burst at the larger, hypocritical socieexpectations, like needing to be well- tal expectations of women. As Young read and clever, but never the smartest notes in the chorus, we are expected person in the room, or having dreams to be clean but messy, hard working and ambitions, but never becoming the but always around when needed, clevbreadwinner. Young’s single topped er but never too smart, emotional but the UK charts for four weeks, beating never crying too much, and so on. We should all embrace being messy, a record previously set by “Easy on Me” like @greceghanem, who is redefining by Adele.1 “Messy” illuminates that perfect is an what it means to be a TikTok fashion undefined concept. “Perfect” means icon at 69 years old. We should all be “Messy” walks listeners through a pas- something different to everyone and messy like @_ashlynbarber, a smallsionate rant. Young considers what it therefore can never be achieved. It’s er fitness influencer who knows she’ll means to be yourself and accept your a prison cell of unreachable expecta- always be labeled “too lean” or “too flaws in the face of constant criticism. tions and even more, it’s unnatural. bulky,” but confidently owns her body The song explores her journey to au- Making mistakes and experimenting regardless. And we should recognize thenticity through the chorus’s motto, with different identities—whether that the bravery in being messy like @en“I want to be me, is that not allowed?” means being over-the-top, studious or dometriosischlo, who used the song to emo—is a natural part of growing up comment on realities of living with a It is a reflection on Young’s complicat- and discovering who you are. There chronic disease—pushing back against ed relationships with ex-lovers, parents is no way to grow without angering a those who dismiss her as “overdramatand even herself. She believes it has few people, whether it’s a family mem- ic” or claim she “looks healthy,” when resonated so strongly with audienc- ber, partner or friend along the way. her condition is an undeniable part of es because of its adaptability. On the her life. 2025 Brit Awards red carpet Young Young reaches beyond the vague idea said, “Everybody feels like they’re not of self-love and enters the gritty truth We can still be successful strong enough for somebody.”2 of self-acceptance. “Messy” acknowl- young women, influencers, police offiedges the unnatural and unattainable cers, moms, elders and more, all while Following a long line of empowering quality that the word “perfect” asks of embracing our messiness and laughing anthems by female artists like “Born young women. Young notes how if she alongside every one of our flaws that This Way” by Lady Gaga, “Try” by Pink, can’t be everything everyone wants her shape us. “Messy” is a song that has “Unstoppable” by Sia and more, Young to be, maybe she can just be herself. touched the hearts of anyone searchis not the first person to discuss loving ing for a way to express themselves yourself through music. “It’s not an everyday clean girl aesthet- proudly, free of judgement. ic,” Young said on Jimmy Fallon in a But what gives “Messy” its distinctive joking yet dead-serious tone. “Some The “clean girl” era has been pushed to power is the bold and in your face days you just haven’t washed your the back burner as more people emquality of the lyrics. Young does not socks,” she added lightheartedly. brace the beauty of messiness and imperfection. These simmering feelings Immediately following its release, the of pent up frustration have been build1 Thomas Smith, “Lola Young’s ‘Messy’ Earns song took off online, specifically on ing for a long time—Lola Young just a Fourth Week Atop the U.K. Singles Chart,” billboard, February 14th, 2025. TikTok. People heard the message and found the words to finally say them 2 NME, “BRITs 2025: Lola Young on why ‘Messy’ ran with it: it is beautiful to be flawed out loud. resonates with fans and taking inspiration from and out of the box. It became a trend The Cure,” Youtube, March 1st, 2025.
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SPRING 2025
FASHION
Leopard Print: The “NotSo-Wild” Wild Card
Spotting the power in the print
Written by Josie Purisch, Staff Writer |
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cared by the cyclic nature of fashion, influencers often encourage investing in safe staples: a good pair of black trousers, a solid-color blouse and a beige cardigan—pieces that promise not to betray you over time. While this rule of thumb is generally trustworthy, it begs the question: do clothes really have to be plain to stand the test of time? As we attempt to move past the checkerboard pattern that overtook 2019 and the chevron catastrophe of the 2010s, it’s
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Photography by Molly Claus, Photography Lead | Shoot Direction and Styling by Sydney Alston, Styling Lead | Modeled by Haina Glarek
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The alluring and rebellious nature that leopard print borrows from its wild counterpart attracts the boldest across every aesthetic, excluding only those who wish to go unnoticed. This is why, upon the leopard print’s runway debut, Christina Dior famously remarked, “If you’re fair and sweet, don’t wear it.”1 The message was clear: leopard print demands audacity. No matter the aesthetic, era or social status, its power lies in the confidence of anyone daring enough to wear it. Leopard print carries a thousand contradictions. It’s simultaneously snobby and trashy, sultry and sophisticated, basic yet undeniably trendy. Those bold enough to reclaim leopard print and bend it to their agenda have kept it alive for decades, solidifying its reign at the top of fashion’s food chain.
tempting to swear off playful patterns entirely, fearing their inevitable extinction. As I walked through decades of fashion, watching trends emerge and wilt prolifically, one pattern never seemed to lose its allure: leopard print. Once a symbol of luxury for high-society women in the early 20th century, later a taste of rebellion amongst the counter-culturalists that ruled the 1960s and eventually an absolute staple to the indie sleaze take-over of the early 2000s, leopard print has left its mark and influence in every era. But why? What is it about this bold motif that allows it to remain relevant across decades and diverse aesthetics? This question is best answered by looking at the personality of the print and uncovering the trait that characterizes both the leader of the fashion icons and the jungle. Leopards, with their top-of-the-food-chain status, have power. Leopard print, when worn with confidence by the party girl or the eclectic grandma, offers the potential to adopt the power of the apex predator. Before replicated on fabric, the steep cost of genuine leopard fur reserved the look for the wealthy elite, cementing a link between the pattern and social power. But as leopard spots made their way to printed patterns and began to stalk all substeps of fashion, their power was not lost—it was redefined. What began as a symbol of societal status evolved into an emblem of self-empowerment, a quality that never goes out of style. While I am, in a sense, arguing that leopard print is a basic wardrobe staple, I am not suggesting that it is basic. Unlike any other essentials designed to blend into the background, leopard print demands attention—it was made to stand out.
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1 Lauren Eglen, “A Leopard’s Changing Spots,” Museum of Youth Culture.
ARTS
l a t n e d n e c s n a r T c i s The u M f o r e w Po
How music transforms my daily life
Written by James Fox, Staff Writer | Graphics by Payton Fuller, Creative Team
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usic is one of the most powerful expressions of identity in the human experience. From influences in pop culture and blockbuster films to its role in our general day-to-day entertainment, music is the universal language—one that reminds us of what it means to be human. That feeling we get when we listen to music can be unlike anything else in this world. Music inspires personal identity, sparks transformation and fuels self-growth. All it takes is the willingness to explore and experiment with new sounds, artists and genres. There’s a beautiful energy in the connection we form with a song. While our bodies instinctively respond to rhythm and melody, there’s something deeper at play—a unique kind of storytelling that stirs creativity and brings us closer to ourselves. Music is a unique form of storytelling, one that speaks through sound to transform the listener. It can transport us to another realm, an alternate reality or even just validated in the way that they currently feel. It’s thanks to music that I’ve experienced moments that feel almost ethereal—moments of deep validation, profound relatability and transformation. I’ve experienced meaningful growth by experimenting with new music and listening to songs. I’ve found inspiration from my parents’ favorites, diving deeper into artists like Pearl Jam, Prince or U2. I’ve also discovered new perspectives through friends’ recommendations, like spinning Mac Miller’s “Watching Movies with the Sound Off” on vinyl—each song offering a fresh way to see the world. Experiences like these, exploring new artists and genres introduced by friends and family that I might not have otherwise listened to, have sparked my own metamorphosis through storytelling power of sound.
understanding ourselves as individuals. With the lyric, “Do you know who you are?” the song becomes an anthem of self-discovery and introspection. Its message transcends time, resonating deeply with the human experience and reflecting the ever-changing nature of life.
There have been times when I’ve questioned my own existence, the nature of the world, and life itself. Yet, this song Similarly, Fleetwood Mac’s “Landslide” has offered me a sense of peace, inbeautifully explores the inner conflicts spiring me to keep moving forward, no we all face, as the narrator wonders if matter how difficult the journey feels. they can weather the “different sea- It’s also helped me realize that while sons of my life” and “sail through the my mom may no longer be here physchange in ocean tides.” This universal ically, she continues to live on—in my moment of self-reflection serves as a memories, in the music we shared, and beacon of hope, while also perfectly in the love that remains between us. depicting the idea of efflorescence. Last August, my dad and I experiBetween the personal growth we en- enced Pearl Jam perform live at Wrigdure and the intrinsic relationship be- ley Field. That night was the first time tween human and Earth—between skin, I truly felt my mom’s presence again. flesh and nature—“Landslide” captures As tears streamed down my face and the theme of change in a profoundly I screamed along with Eddie, it felt raw and emotional way. like my mom was right there with us. It was an incredible moment—one that For me, music has been a lifeline not only changed my life but also repthrough grief. resented the power of music to transcend space and time, connecting us Pearl Jam’s “Alive” is a song that I through love. quoted in my mom’s eulogy—not only because she was a Pearl Jam stan (she Last up on the cue is U2’s “One,” anwould almost weekly send me young other anthem that celebrates the unipictures of the band and Eddie Vedder fying power of love that connects all on Facebook) but also because of the humans of the world. The lyrics—“one meaning behind the song. “Alive” ex- love, one blood/One life, you got to do emplifies the incredible ability of music what you should/One life, with each to tether itself to memories of people, other, sisters, brothers/One life but places and moments in time, turning we’re not the same, we get to carry sound into a lasting connection to the each other, carry each other, one”—acones we love. knowledge the various differences we have as humans, whether we like it or In “Alive” the narrator—drawn from Ed- not, and remind me of the power of die Vedder’s own life—discovers that choosing love and putting good enerthe man he believed to be his father is gy into the world. actually his step-father, while his biological father had already passed away. Maybe these songs won’t resonate This revelation faces him with grief and with you the way they do with me. forces him to confront profound ques- Maybe you’ve never even heard of tions about his purpose and existence. them before. But think about that one song that gives you goosebumps or Vedder has shared that, originally, the touches you deep in your soul. And if song’s meaning reflected a person- one doesn’t come to mind just yet—or al curse tied to these painful truths. even if it does—go out and keep listenBut as “Alive” reached larger audi- ing. You might stumble upon someences and fans began to sing along thing entirely new, rediscover somewith a sense of hope and triumph, the thing old or even uncover something meaning of the song shifted for him. about yourself along the way. What once felt like a burden became a source of liberation, as the collective energy of listeners helped lift the weight of his story.
Throughout my own life, music has been a constant source of inspiration, profoundly shaping both my mental and physical well-being. One of the most meaningful ways it has fueled my growth is by prompting me to reflect my own identity and who I am becoming. This song inspires me personally, as I connect with Vedder’s grief through For example, Harry Styles’ “Lights Up” my own experience after losing my encapsulates the essence of personal mom unexpectedly last April. This transformation and the journey toward anthem has helped me realize that
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despite all of life’s difficult moments— and even when simply existing feels unbearably hard—the simple act of breathing and being on this earth is the greatest gift we have.
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CULTURE
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Flower Power Is Back
How 1970s culture manifests itself all around us today Written by Hayes Sullivan, Staff Writer | Graphic by Kira Lee, Creative Team
Ahhh. The ‘70s
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return. Disco glam is making a comeback, with sequins, platform shoes and bold colors dominating runways and streetwear. Brands like Gucci, Yves Saint Laurent and Free People have been embracing the ‘70s-inspired flared and free silhouette. Fringe dominated the scene during 2025’s February New York Fashion Week.
mirrors the energy of the ‘70s legends who fought for what was right. We are living in a new wave of feminism, fighting in uncharted territory for things like body positivity and gender inclusivity, intersectional activism and the reclaiming of personal autonomy in a world still shaped by outdated expectations.
As an early 2000s baby, I’ve often envisioned the 1970s as a decade of pure magic. It was a time dedicated to breaking free from tradition and exploring music, movement and self-discovery. Between the rise of hippie culture, the explosion of disco and the A fashion revival is upon us, screaming, Just like the trailblazers of the ‘70s, laid-back bohemian lifestyle, there was “bold is back.” today’s movements challenge beaua strong feeling that life was meant to ty standards, amplify diverse voices be enjoyed, not just lived. Echoes of ‘70s music inspires today’s and demand equity—not just in the sound and spirit. Artists like Dua Lipa workplace, but in everyday life, media Music in the ‘70s was diverse and funky. are bringing back funky basslines and culture. We witnessed the birth of classic rock and groovy beats to create feel-good legends, like Led Zeppelin, Fleetwood dance music. Greta Van Fleet chan- It’s important to note that this 1970s Mac and The Rolling Stones—all loud, nels raw, guitar-driven energy that resurgence is intentional, driven by a raw and experimental. Alongside recalls Led Zeppelin, while Tame Im- place of desire. Could it be that during them were disco fever icons like Don- pala revived the psychedelic, dreamy the pandemic lockdown, people had na Summer, The Bee Gees and Chic— production that creates a trippy at- the free time and creative will to push who turned dance floors into glittering, mosphere and defined the era. These boundaries and express themselves bass-thumping dreamlands. artists are blending genres in a way differently? Or that after the pandemthat feels practically trademarked by ic’s peak, we craved authentic human Clothes were loose, flowy and pat- the seventies. interaction? Or perhaps the political terned. People walked around with division of our nation in recent years long curtains of tousled hair, both Beyond music and fashion, ‘70s life- is fostering a need for unity. Maybe healthy and unkempt. Crotchet and style choices have manifested in to- it’s simply a reaction to the oversatsequins were bold and flashy sta- day’s culture. The era saw a wellness uration of online life, leading people ples. Self-expression was encouraged boom, with yoga, meditation, herbal to embrace more expression in the even beyond the physical image—so- remedies and holistic healing all gain- real world. cial justice and equality were proud- ing mainstream traction. ly demanded, fostering a culture of My theory? The ‘70s comeback is likely colorful unison. Today’s self-care industry mirrors the a combination of all these factors—a ‘70s return to natural, mindful living. collective want for a freer, bolder and Now, I don’t know if it’s the fact that The rise of herbal medicine, astrolo- more expressive lifestyle. I take a particular liking to Fleetwood gy and even psychedelics for mental Mac or that I think Kendrick Lamar health all trace back to this movement. So, the next time you find yourself adlooked damn good in his bell-bottom So, while TikTok may seem responsible miring Harry Styles’ high-waisted sejeans during the Super Bowl Halftime for your new nightly routine of essen- quin pants, Taylor Swift’s velvet Penny Show, but something tells me that ‘70s tial oils and meditation…think again. Lane coat or your favorite TikToker’s culture is making a comeback whether That seed was planted 55 years ago. herbal skincare routine, consider youryou like bold prints or not. self lucky to be witnessing firsthand Arguably the most important cultural the homage to the past that is unfoldFor starters, trends always seem to resurgence from the ‘70s is the social ing before us. make a cyclical comeback, and it and political echo. The decade was seems that clothing from the ‘70s is defined by activism, with icons like Peace out, 2025. Welcome back, 1970. being dusted off and pulled from the Gloria Steiman fighting for feminism, back of the closet. The energy ex- Martin Luther King Jr. advocating for pressed in the ‘70s was bold, carefree civil rights, Harvey Milk championing and authentic—all things that are be- LGBTQ+ rights and dozens more leading embraced in the modern era. ing change.
The flared pant leg we’ve seen in our Mom’s throwback photos has made a
Today’s push for sustainability, self-expression and smashing societal norms
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FEATURED
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From the Sun, I Become Photography by Paige Valley, Photography Lead | Shoot Direction by Molly Ford, Shoot Direction Lead and Molly Claus, Photography Lead | Modeled by Kayla Montag | Cyanotyping by Paige Valley, Molly Claus, Noa Chamberlain, Rayyan Bhatti, Ella Bartkowski, Talia Horn and Mary Richards
Cyanotyping is a contact printing process that uses ultraviolet light to create images. The sun can be used to expose these images, similar to how it helps plants grow, tying the sun into the creation of art.
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LIFESTYLE
Connecting with Nature
Things to do and places to see in Madison Written by Makaylah Maxwell, Lifestyle Assistant Editor Photography by Heidi Falk, Creative Team | Shoot Direction by Ella Bartkowski, Creative Team | Styled by Dorian Jones, Creative Team | Modeled by Dorian Jones and Erika Mendes
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ith flowers in bloom, birds chirping and the sun’s rays cascading down, spring is in full swing here in Madison. The end of the winter marks the beginning of a new season, a time for rejuvenation of the spirit. Luckily, we’re in the state of Wisconsin—in the beautiful Midwest and the state that has over 10,000 lakes—we’re spoiled for outdoor beauty. With 50 state parks, including forests, scenic trails and recreational areas, and four national parks, such as the Apostle Islands, the Ice Age Trail, the Saint Croix and North County, the natural wonders are endless.1 Madison itself boasts five lakes and a multitude of different nature trails to explore. In my research for this article, I had the opportunity to visit several of these spots in Madison to make sure they were truly recommendation-worthy. Below are the places and activities that made the cut!
Madison has a plethora of green spaces to choose from to connect with nature. From plant nurseries to walks on a scenic trail, there’s never a dull moment in this city. Finding a green space to appreciate can put the control in your hands and can help improve one’s emotional well-being. 1 “Find a Park | Wisconsin State Parks, Forests and Trails | Wisconsin DNR.”; “Wisconsin U.S.”
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Madison has a beautiful union that overlooks Lake Mendota and whether it be winter or summer there’s always something to do on the water. From swimming to simply sitting by the shore, Lake Mendota has many things to offer and one of them will surely tickle your fancy. As cliché as it may sound, yoga offers a powerful way to center yourself by breathing in fresh air and syncing your movements with your surroundings. It deepens mindfulness, helping you connect to nature’s rhythms. Whether you’re revisiting your favorite parks or exploring new ones, practicing some light yoga is an ideal way to strengthen your bond with the outdoors. Get outside and enjoy yourself with a fresh picnic. Whether you’re alone or with friends, picnics are a time to relax and create an outdoor space that you can enjoy. Unsurprisingly, bird watching is a popular pastime in Wisconsin, thanks to the state’s diverse bird population. Home to over 400 species of birds, Wisconsin offers bird watchers countless opportunities to spot new and familiar faces. Bird-watching can also provide a welcome distraction from life’s stresses, with the calming sounds of chirping birds and the satisfaction of checking off a new species from your list! It’s an activity I would definitely recommend for anyone looking to connect with nature.
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Henry’s Vilas Zoo (702 S Randall Ave, Madison, WI 53715) is an admission-free, AZA accredited zoo located a 30 minute walk from campus that emphasizes education through their animals and different programs offered by staff. UW-Madison Arboretum (1201 Seminole HWY, Madison, WI 53711) is a university property which offers many services from special trail events to wedding ceremonies. The arboretum offers many free events at all times of the week and different natural areas that imitate different Wisconsin landscapes. Discovery World (500 N Harbor Dr, Milwaukee, WI 53202) is home to the largest aquarium in Wisconsin and scale models of the Great Lakes! Milwaukee has so much to offer and is just a bus ride away. Allen Centennial Garden (620 Babcock Dr, Madison, WI 53706) regularly has public events for students and is open to the public from dawn to dusk. Olbrich Botanical Garden (3330 Atwood Ave, Madison, WI 53706) is famed for its beautiful architecture and the many programs that take place inside the conservatory. The Ice Age Trail is a 1,000 mile long trail that stretches throughout the entire state of Wisconsin. The trails have so much to offer from camping to hunting from the trails, there’s something available for everyone you know! Governor Nelson State Park (5140 County Road M, Waunakee, WI 53597) is one of the few state parks we have in Wisconsin. Just across Lake Mendota this park features trails, swimming and fishing, and picnic areas! This location is a bit further away but is reachable with a drive around Lake Mendota! The Dane County Farmers Market takes place right on Capitol Square from spring to fall. You can expect to see hundreds of vendors offering everything from strawberries to fresh-cut flowers.
Balancing school, work and other obligations is important, but equally essential is nurturing your life outside of those responsibilities. This might mean sitting on the terrace, taking a nap on Bascom or simply taking advantage of everything this university has to offer. I encourage everyone reading this issue to reflect on how you connect with the world around you. From childhood, the idea of connection and nature has surrounded us—from The Lion King and the “circle of life” to the world of Arendale in Frozen. Everything is interconnected, and now is the perfect time to put yourself back in the loop.
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ARTS
The Depth of a Flower
Flowers as a symbol of transcendence throughout art history
Written by Cate Tarr, Arts Editor | Photography by Molly Claus, Photography Lead | Shoot Direction by Molly Ford, Shoot Direction Lead | Modeled by Avali Bratberg
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henever I go to a museum, I am almost positive I will see one particular element: a flower. Whether it is Claude Monet’s serene water lilies, Georgia O’Keeffe’s overblown orchids or Van Gogh’s textured sunflowers—flowers dominate art history through their sheer presence and dynamic symbolism.
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Claude Monet Monet painted numerous pieces that captured the layered qualities of flowers through texture and color. The French artist was drawn to flowers for what they represented to him: the tranquil beauty of nature.3 Monet’s paintings evoke a sense of stillness through his depictions of sunlight, heavy brush strokes and blending of paint. So deeply connected to the plant, Monet said “I must have flowers, always and always.”4 Monet had his own garden at his home in Ginvery, a village in northern France. An artistic endeavor itself, Monet’s garden—filled with roses, tulips, peonies and more—not only reflected his love of flowers but also served as an inspiration for his art.5 Monet viewed flowers with a sense of wild significance. Mirroring his view of them, Monet painted flowers with a free, vibrant and fluid style. One of the most unique aspects of his work was his ability to capture the subtle variations in color, communicating a sense of contrast yet cohesion in his paintings.6
Georgia O’Keefe Georgia O’Keefe is known for her blown-up yet narrowed-in depictions of a wide range of flowers, often interpreted by critics and viewers as symbols of female sexuality and reproduction due to the paintings resemblance to genitalia.7
Last week, I started reading, “A New Earth: Awakening to Your Life’s Purpose,” a 2005 spirituality, psychology and self-help book by Eckhart Tolle, a spiritual leader and author. As I was reading, I came across the sentence, “flowers, more fleeting, more ethereal and more delicate than plants out of which they have emerged, would become like messengers from another realm, like a bridge between the world of physical forms and the formless.”1 This sentence struck me because of its resonance—it felt innately true, yet I had never heard it before. The idea of flowers as a spiritual symbol, given their relevance in our modern culture and throughout history, impacted me, as according to Tolle, we have been drawn to a “messenger from another realm” in our everyday lives and throughout history, most likely, without even knowing it. Flowers have long held significance in human civilization, as they were used in healing rituals, courtship protocols and religious events throughout ancient times. Specifically, they were thought to represent meanings or ideas that could not be translated into words.2 Inspiring innumerable renowned painters, flowers are a foundational influence to artists all around the world. Their status as a symbol of the sacred strengthens art’s ability to capture transcendence, and reinforces the long-held connection between creativity and making meaning throughout human history. 1 Eckhart Tolle, “A New Earth: Awakening to Your Life’s Purpose,” 2005. 2 Sophia Razzaq, “The Language of Flowers in Ancient Times,” Medium, March 31, 2025.
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O’Keeffe herself however has said that her work did not intentionally depict any sex symbols, and that any resemblance her paintings had to female genitalia was a result of her close-up depiction and ultimate understanding of the flowers she painted.8 O’Keeffe argued that many male critics were unable to grapple with the powerful comparison she had inadvertently made through her close observation of flowers—one that suggested a profound connection between the plant and femininity itself.9 As an artist at the turn of the 20th century, it was easier for art critics, including her husband who was an art promoter, to put O’Keeffe in a limited box. Sexualizing her work instead of taking it seriously, O’Keeffe and women overall were not considered competent professionals in the art world and beyond, denoting O’Keeffe as a pioneer in her field today.10
Vincent Van Gogh Van Gogh’s golden sunflowers have become one of his most iconic pieces, defining his artistic legacy since the 19th century. Distinctively, Van Gogh only used three shades of yellow to paint his nevertheless dynamic portrait of a 3 “Claude Monet,” Artenquire, April 27, 2024. 4 “I Must Have Flowers, Always, and Always,” Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. 5 “Claude Monet,” Artenquire, April 27, 2024. 6 Ibid. 7 “The Symbolism of Flowers in the Art of Georgia O’Keeffe,” ArtDependence. 8 Ibid. 9 “Georgia O’Keeffe: Separating Fact from Fiction,” The Collector. 10 “Focus on Georgia O’Keeffe,” Where Creativity Works.
vase of sunflowers, revealing a deeper meaning of simplicity within the sunflowers themselves.11 Van Gough once said that his sunflowers were the paintings he is most proud of, believing they symbolize gratitude. He equated the color yellow with happiness and viewed his sunflowers as a vibrant expression of that joy.12
Flowers are captivating. Taking on fe’s intimate close-ups or Van Gogh’s a wide variety of meanings that vary joyful bursts of yellow, flowers serve as with each artist’s interpretation, the more than inspiration—they are a vesversatility of flowers reveals their pow- sel for deeper contemplation. er. They resonate with a diverse group of individuals and become a distinct The line from Tolle’s “A New Earth” symbol for each artist. continues to echo in my mind. These artistic interpretations across history Despite their imaginativeness, flowers confirm his idea. Through color, form continually point to themes of good- and symbolism, artists use flowers as Both Van Gough’s pure view of the ness and beauty, underscoring their portals—offering viewers a glimpse meaning of a sunflower and his sim- lasting presence in the art world. into something beyond the canvas. In plistic use of color to illustrate the doing so, they remind us of the meanflower emphasize the relationship be- Across time, artists have looked to ing that is embedded throughout our tween virtuosity and florals through- flowers not just for their visual appeal, lives in nature and in the everyday. out history. Flowers often represent but for what they evoke—tranquility, delicacy and innocence, a symbol that gratitude, femininity, joy. Whether in has pervaded art since long before the Monet’s sun-dappled gardens, O’Keef19th century. 11 “Why Are Van Gough’s Sunflowers So Famous?” Van Gogh Museum. 12 “Sunflowers: Symbols of Happiness,” National Gallery.
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Insignificant Instances ARTS
How “Boyhood” gives meaning to the mundane Written by Ally Jonas, Staff Writer | Graphic by Elise Daczko, Creative Team
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ife—we’re constantly told “it’s short” but it’s simultaneously the longest human experience. When we think of the snapshots that encapsulate an existence, high school graduations, weddings and first children are among the many milestones that come to mind. However, in his 2014 film “Boyhood,” director Richard Linklater argues these benchmarks aren’t what defines a life.1 Through the film’s production length of twelve years and nature motifs carefully dispersed within its runtime, he argues the small, insignificant moments between these landmarks are what truly gives humanity purpose.2 The film’s opening shot introduces audiences to Mason—a young boy whose life they’ll follow for the next twelve years. After the title card rolls amongst a sea of clouds, occasionally cracked with bits of sapphire sky peaking through, the camera cuts to the young boy looking up. Although it’s a simple opening with no dialogue, this shot reflects the 165 minute journey the young boy is about to take. As the film documents his upcoming twelve years, Mason staring into the atmosphere above represents the change and evolution he will soon endure. Much like his future, the sky is grand and vast, undergoing many changes due to weather, time of day and natural disasters. Furthermore, the abundant clouds shown on this day further emphasize this change. Similar to growing humans, the clouds are constantly shifting in shape, size, look and location. They are used in 1 Clash Magazine Music News, Reviews & Interviews, and ClashMusic. “Boyhood’s Daddy: Richard Linklater Interviewed.” Clash Magazine Music News, Reviews & Interviews, June 6, 2022. 2 Ibid.
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this shot to foreshadow the vast amounts of physical change Mason will experience. Throughout the film, greenery highlights idealism, placing the audience in an almost dreamlike state through the highly saturated grass, shrubs and trees. These scenes depict Mason’s fondest memories in his childhood years, with those who made them worthwhile. It’s in these scenes Linklater masterfully opens audiences to Mason’s psyche. While never explicitly stating so, it’s heavily implied Mason felt insignificant—like he was never seen by the people in his life. In many instances, his mother, Olivia, struggles to hold a one-on-one conversation with her son, with the moments often interrupted by his older sister, Samantha. This is further emphasized during Olivia’s short-lived marriage to Bill. While abusive to all members of their family, he disproportionately singles Mason out. Although often over small tasks such as not finishing his homework or chores, Bill presents a building resentment toward his stepson. His disdain rears its head during a family dinner, where Bill chucks a glass cup at Mason’s spot. Although not directly hitting the boy, the cup shatters in front of him as Bill exclaims, “You think you’re special? You need to learn some respect.” It goes without saying that any sort of greenery is intentionally missing from these segments—Linklater opting for a neutral and dreary background instead. One person is consistently featured in front of lush, plant-covered backdrops—Mason’s biological father and namesake, Mason Sr.
Although it’s a subtle detail, intentionally putting Mason Sr. in flourishing outdoor landscapes let’s audiences view the character through Mason’s eyes. His father is the only consistent male-figure in Mason’s life, and whether they’re discussing sex, jobs or politics, never shies away from tough conversations with his stepson. Even his name, “Mason Sr.,” is symbolic. He’s the only person Mason feels completely understood by, and subsequently sees himself in. Despite life, once again, being the longest human experience, we’re often scared of it fleeting. As we get older, the small, insignificant moments begin losing their charm and meld together—one becomes indistinguishable from the next. Linklater highlights this with a sunset. On Mason’s last night before moving to college, he finds his mom sitting alone in their apartment, crying. When asked what was wrong, Olivia first yells, then becomes quiet, softly stating, “I just thought there would be more.” A sunset is strategically placed in the back of the shot, audiences only able to view it from a window. The event itself reflects the internal battle Olivia fights at this point in her life. Both her kids are off at college, she’s gone through three marriages and feels there is nothing left for her. Although she is not elderly, she feels life has passed her by, that there’s nothing significant left for her. Much like how the sun goes from bright to dark in a matter of minutes, Olivia feels her time is past—her light is over. Contrastingly, the sunset also reflects Mason’s current stage. As the sun sets behind his mother in
his final moments before leaving home, it symbolizes the end of his boyhood. Throughout the movie, the audience has watched Mason grow over the course of twelve years. This moment is the first where the film forces audiences to take a step back, viewing Mason as an adult rather than the child we began with.
Over the course of twelve years, Richard Linklater takes audiences on a journey, watching a family grow up and go on. Strategically highlighting insignificant, unmemorable moments, he uses nature to showcase the seemingly uneventful times that ultimately shape a person and make a life worthwhile.
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FEATURED
RING TREND REPORT SPRING TREND REPORT SPRING TREND REPORT SPRING TREND REPORT SPR Photography by Maya Stegner, Creative Team | Graphics by Breanna Dunworth, Graphic and Illustration Lead | Shoot Direction by Ava Putnam, Shoot Production Lead | Styling by Nour Kanan, Creative Team | Modeled by Saige Kearns, Nour Kanan, and Jenna Schnabel
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RING TREND REPORT SPRING TREND REPORT SPRING TREND REPORT SPRING TREND REPORT SPRI
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CULTURE
Blossoms of Power
The tenacious political symbolism that comes from floral symbols Written by G Sorensen, Staff Writer | Graphic by Natalie Khmelevsky, Creative Team MODA | 44
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here is no limit to a flower’s power, from protecting a bride on her wedding day to guiding loved ones toward the land of the living on Día de los Muertos.1 While they may appear fragile and feminine, the flora and fauna of our planet carry greater meaning and powerful voices across many cultures. One of the most well-known examples was the iconic Flower Power movement of the 1960s and ‘70s, which used peaceful, loving messages to protest the Vietnam War. These demonstrations were often filled with music, and the tune of the many instruments and songs became encouraged at marches and protests as forms of rallying cries for change. The flower symbolism was woven into every aspect of the movement.2 Wearing floral prints, protestors would weave buds into their hair and paint beautiful imagery on their signs as a way of standing against the unspeakable violence of the war.
"Wearing floral prints, protestors would weave buds into their hair and paint beautiful imagery on their signs as a way of standing against the unspeakable violence of the war."
While the movement officially origi- back on this event in a 2004 interview, Women, a conference that had intennated in Berkeley, California in 1965, saying, “I had the feeling the soldiers tionally excluded lesbian rights and its message quickly spread across the were more afraid 4of her than she was organizations. Determined to make country, reaching New York by 1967. of the bayonets.” In that image, the themselves heard, 17 women arrived During a parade in New York City hon- flower represents the sheer power of wearing shirts emblazoned with “LAVENDER MENACES” on their hand-dyed oring soldiers in Vietnam, activist Ab- hope in the face of hate. purple tees, carrying paper signs rangbie Hoffman introduced the “Flower Brigade,” a group of protestors carry- The Flower Power movement began as ing from “Women’s liberation is a lesbiing messages of peace and love. The a grassroots expression of love, even- an plot,” to “Superdyke loves you!” flower-bearing demonstrators were tually blossoming into a representation met with violence and beaten down for for the whole of the movement, while These women believed their personinterrupting the parade.3 But Hoffman the Lavender Menaces provided a bud- hood shouldn’t be defined by the men remained defiant, later writing, “The ding source of hope and peace to the around them, and they worked hard to detach themselves from the patriarchal cry of ‘Flower Power’ echoes through war-torn, ridiculed queer population. systems embedded into every aspect the land. We shall not wilt.” The term “lavender” has been used to of their lives. In “The Woman-Identified Not long after, Hoffman, as a part of refer to the LGBTQ+ community for Woman,” a four-page manifesto disthe National Mobilization Committee decades, slowly making its way into tributed by the newly renamed Radical to end the War in Vietnam, helped popular queer culture, whether they Lesbians at the Second Congress, they organize the March on the Pentagon, wanted it or not. The term has floated opened with a powerful declaration: otherwise known as The Pentagon in and out of the queer eye for decades, “What is a lesbian? A lesbian is the rage Riot. As many as 35,000 participated with violets, lilacs and other delicate of all women 6condensed to the point of explosion.” in the march spanning from the Wash- purple buds as defining symbols. ington Monument to the high-security Department headquarters.
This protest led to a powerful photo taken by Marc Riboud: “The Ultimate Confrontation: The Flower and the Bayonet,” picturing a 17-year-old Jan Rose Kasmir facing a line of soldiers with an outstretched hand holding only a chrysanthemum. Riboud looked 1 “The History of Wedding Bouquets,” Rose and Blossom, Dec. 26, 2024. 2 G. Kramm, “Flower Power (Hippie Fashion History,)” High Latitude Style. 3 Megan Paese, “Flower Power,” The History of Rock and Roll.
The term “Lavender Menaces” originated from feminist activist Betty Friedman (ironically), who referred to lesbians as a “distraction” to the feminist movement during a National Organization of Women (NOW) meeting in 1969.5 In response, queer women took action at the 1970 Second Congress to Unite 4 Smithsonian Magazine, “Photographer recaptures protest,” April 7, 2004. 5 Linda Napioski, “Lavender Menace: The Phrase, The Group, The Controversy,” ThoughtCo, Feb. 28, 2019.
The manifesto continued in this spirit, rejecting the societal power structures that have long privileged men over women. In this way, the fight for recognition as a whole, autonomous woman blossomed alongside the flower-covered message of resistance and liberation.
6 Radicalesbians, “The Woman Identified Woman,” Know Inc, 1970.
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LIFESTYLE
Nature Over Noise
Creating a trip beneficial to you and the Earth Written by Alyna Hildenbrand, Staff Writer | Photography by Mary Richards, Creative Team | Shoot Direction by Zoey Corsaro, Creative Team | Modeled by Natalie Khmelevsky, Eva Wickboldt, Ruby Bergstrom, Abigail Martin and Katie Axelson
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oo often, we neglect the importance of interacting with nature, caught in the endless loop of strict schedules that repeatedly fail to pull us outside. While vacationing is a popular escape from this cycle, they’re often fast-paced, costly and driven by consumerism. But what if there was an even better way to break free? Camping invites you to slow down, unwind and reconnect with the natural world—all without the traditional, expensive vacation. In a world where we wake up each day to growing climate change and environmental issues—ranging from global warming to deforestation and biodiversity loss—it’s more important than ever to make conscious choices as consumers. Camping is one way we can still enjoy time away from the mundane while minimally harming the Earth.
Tourism accounts for large amounts of pollution, harming the world around us. Aviation has the largest effect, accounting for over 52% of tourism’s carbon footprint.1 In addition to planes, other forms of transportation used while vacationing, such as Uber and rental cars, pump more and more greenhouse gases into the atmosphere.2 Despite still needing some form of transportation, camping vacations are less carbon-intensive than the average traditional vacation, as most are more local and use less resources and energy than hotels, vacation homes and man-made attractions!3 Steering away from traditional vacations can not only help preserve the Earth, but can be a great opportunity to connect with nature as well as the people you love. Taking a step back and appreciating the world around you can be greatly beneficial. In fact expo1 Kara Anderson, “Tourism & the Environment: A Delicate Balance,” Jan. 28, 2025. 2Ibid. 3 Stadelmann, “Sustainable Camping: Overview, Benefits, and Easy Tips,” March 11, 2024.
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sure to natural light and fresh air during camping can help regulate our sleepwake cycle and improve sleep quality.4 To me, committing to a proper camping trip means ditching technology. So many of us are reliant on our devices in a way that can feel unhealthy, and camping offers a rare opportunity to create distance from the constant stress they bring. That said, it’s still important to keep a device accessible for safety. With minimal technology, some might argue there is less to do on a camping trip in comparison to a traditional vacation, but there is a plethora of activities if you just get creative. The real beauty is in simplicity. Something as basic as cooking a meal over the campfire together can be a fun activity. 4 Strait Web Solutions, “The Benefits of Camping: Why Everyone Should Try It,” May 14, 2023.
And of course, there’s the classic camping traditions—telling stories around the fire at night, starting a competitive game of cards, stargazing. If you’re feeling more adventurous, picking a campsite near a lake or pond can instantly give you a space for a wider range of activities, such as fishing and swimming. My friends and I always end up spending most of our trips near the water— floating around, inventing new games and inevitably turning it into a water-based competition. Whether it be swimming or shoving each other off the pier in an epic match of “King of the Rock,” the water always keeps us entertained. Plus, packing art materials, like string for friendship bracelets or a sketchbook and pencil, opens up endless creative possibilities.
Being hesitant about planning a camping trip is understandable, but there are things you can do to make the process as smooth as possible. There are a few things you can keep in mind to aid the process: ●
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Get together with your group in advance for a brainstorm session. Having more people to brainstorm ideas on what to bring makes the likelihood of forgetting something important much lower! Make a meal plan and a list of all the food needed for those meals. You can also make this into a fun, group grocery shopping trip! Bring enough warm clothes and bedding for night, as well as tools and resources. Many websites have lists for camping necessities that can be helpful, do some research!
While on the trip, remember to stay hydrated and get plenty of rest. Share the load of jobs within your group and communicate with each other—these small things can make all the difference between a stressful trip and a smooth, memorable adventure. Most importantly, respect the environment: clean up after yourself and aim to leave no trace. It’s our responsibility to preserve the spaces for the wildlife that lives there, as well as future camping groups to enjoy. For my friends and me, camping has become an annual summer tradition, and every trip has been an unforgettable experience. Truly, there’s nothing that beats the peace and joy you can create for yourself and your friends in nature. As prices surge and the environment faces growing threats, it’s worth thinking about how our choices impact the planet. While there’s nothing wrong with a traditional vacation, choosing a camping trip as one of your next getaways can be an amazing experience that is both memorable to you and mindful of the world around you.
SPRING 2025
FEATURED
THE Efflorescent ISSUE
Videography by Shloka Mohanty and Thea Fonstad, Videography Leads | Modeled by Thea Fonstad MODA | 48
The Efflorescent Issue's Video can be viewed on the digital version of this page on our website modamadison.com as well as on our instagram @modamadison
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LIFESTYLE
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In Full Bloom
A journey through four years of self-discovery, navigating the challenges of change and learning to embrace the growth that defines us
Written by Noa Chamberlin, Editorial Director | Photography by Paige Valley, Photography Lead | Modeled by Noa Chamberlin
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econd semester senior. It still doesn’t feel real.
Reaching the end of my college experience, it feels only natural to look back. In some ways, it feels like a lifetime ago that I lived in the dorms as a freshman; in others, like only yesterday. Lately, I’ve been grappling with what comes next. Will I travel? Where will I live? Stay at home for a while? Move across the country? Find a job I love—or one I don’t? These questions have been circling my mind, catching me off guard.
Moda showed me that I could take an intimidating opportunity and turn it into something fulfilling. It taught me to trust my instincts, embrace collaboration and face challenges, even when they feel overwhelming. Above all, it reminded me that growth often begins in moments of uncertainty— the very feeling I have now, staring down graduation.
With the end of college approaching, I find myself on the cusp of a major life shift—one that feels both exciting and unsettling. The college lifestyle I’ve It’s easy to get lost in the “what ifs” come to know will soon be replaced of the future—I can tend to be over- with something completely new, whelmed with panic. But in those mo- something I’ve never encountered ments, I’ve started to learn the value in before. This transition marks not just taking a step back and a deep breath, the end of a chapter, but a reminder and remember where I started before that change, though inevitable, often looking ahead. Recently, I’ve been comes with mixed emotions. craving this kind of self reflection, and writing this piece feels like the perfect Change is rarely comfortable; moving place to begin. forward means letting go of what’s familiar, and that’s never easy. But real, Starting with one of my favorite transformational growth happens chapters: Moda. when we face fear and hesitation, and still say yes to something new. I discovered Moda as a freshman at the fall semester student organiza- The thing about growth is that it never tion fair, an enormous parade of nearly really stops. There’s no magic moment 1,000 clubs and student orgs.1 Some- when everything permanently falls into how, amidst the chaos, I found Moda. A place. Sure, there are times when evfashion magazine—how cool is that? I erything feels perfect—but only until couldn’t get the idea of creating a real the universe throws another curveball. magazine out of my head. In my experience, the hardest chalWhile initially exciting, my first meet- lenges have led to the most transforing left me terrified—so much was mative changes. Now, I’m facing one happening at once, so many moving of my biggest challenges yet—closing parts in this well-oiled machine. But the chapter on undergrad and stepsoon enough, I pitched and wrote my ping into the “real world.” very first magazine article, and then I was hooked. For so long, there’s been a set path with clear steps to follow. The road With every story I wrote, I felt my con- widened over time and more options fidence grow. I loved the process—the appeared, but there was always a spark of an idea and the satisfaction of structure to guide me. seeing it come together on the page. Publishing my work for the first time Until now. The road disappears, and gave me confidence in my abilities like the abyss of the future opens—an endnever before. less space full of directions to choose from. It’s terrifying. It’s exhilarating.
In moments of minor freakouts when I think about the future—and there have been many—I remind myself: you’re growing. You can change your mind, pivot and take a new direction. Nothing is permanent. Whatever path you choose, you’ll gain something valuable. We are constantly learning and evolving, and that’s what makes life so beautiful. So, I encourage you to embrace change, even when it’s scary. True growth comes from taking risks, adapting and leaning into the unknown rather than shying away from it. I’ve seen this firsthand—not just in my own life, but in the spaces that have shaped me. Looking back, I see how Moda has embodied that same idea. Over the past four years, this magazine has evolved, constantly reinventing itself with fresh ideas and creativity. And I’ve been lucky to grow alongside it. Moda was more than just a creative outlet in a world of papers and exams—it was where I found my voice, my confidence and some of my closest friends. The people behind this magazine make it truly special, and I know they will continue to push it forward in ways I can’t wait to see. If I had let fear hold me back, I never would have written my first Moda article or applied for a leadership position when I felt underqualified. But I took the leap—and it turned out to be one of the best decisions. Moda has been a defining part of my college experience, shaping me in ways I never anticipated. Now, as I stand on the edge of what’s next, I hold onto what I’ve learned in the last four years—leaning into fear often opens the door to the experiences that shape us. The unknown is daunting, yes, but it’s also full of possibility. So while I don’t have all the answers, I know I’m ready to take the next step, wherever it may lead.
1 “Student Life: Clubs and student orgs,” University of Wisconsin-Madison, 2025.
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