The University of the Cumberlands Student Newspaper
Fall Issue 3 October 27, 2026
A2 . Tuesday, October 27, 2026 . The Patriot
Letter From the Design Editor
Staff Editor- in- Chief Sydney Dingus Managing Editor Taylor Moren Design Editor Ugne Takuseviciute
PHOTO BY RYLEIGH MCCOY
Hello Patriots! I am so beyond excited to be a part of The Patriot newspaper this year! So far, we have had two amazing issues printed, and it has been an excellent start to the year. With the new bi-term, we present you the third issue with a touch of Halloween. I am so proud of our team, who always come up with amazing ideas, stories, photos and dedicate their time to contributing. I hope you will find this issue interesting and continue to support our hard work. I appreciate every single one of you who picks up the paper and spends time looking through it! Growing up, when I visited my grandparents, they always pulled up old newspapers and articles featuring me for winning swimming competitions or other little accomplishments. I remember being so excited to see my name and picture printed in a real newspaper. I never imagined that years later, I would be on the other side of it, helping create a newspaper myself. Being part of The Patriot feels especially meaningful because I get to help create something that captures our campus life, news, achievements, the creative and unique students we have here and the moments that make this place feel like home. And who knows, maybe years from now, someone will look at these old stories, like my grandparents and I do, and remember their amazing time at UC. I hope everyone enjoyed the fall break and had time to relax and spend time with yourself and your loved ones! As we keep moving deeper into this school year, I want you all to remember that college is about more than just classes and grades. It is about enjoying these years, making friends, creating memories, learning something new and staying connected to the community around you. So, take a moment to look around, try something new, talk to someone you have never talked to before and enjoy the little moments. You never know which ones you will remember years from now. Best wishes and lots of love!
Staff Writers Alexis Bowling Jillian Cross Brenna Gibbs Alicja Willis Kayla Russell Audrey Yandell Staff Photographers Kurstyn Ison Ryleigh McCoy Abigail McKamey Ethan Wells Staff Graphic Designer Suginna Laohapatanawong Faculty Advisor Jeremiah Massengale
Ugne Takuseviciute Design Editor
Interested in Submitting Your Work? The Patriot would love students to share any photos, articles, short stories, poems, research papers, art or comic strips to be included in upcoming issues. Send submissions and any questions to thepatriot@ucumberlands.edu and we will be in touch.
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A3 . Tuesday, October 27, 2026 . The Patriot
News
Campus
Homecoming
Study Abroad
The University of the Cumberlands is giving students the chance to take their education beyond the classroom and across the globe with its Spring 2027 study abroad opportunities. Students can explore the historic sights of London and Scotland with UC History, experience the culture of London and Paris with UC Communication, or discover the art and beauty of Italy with UC Art. These programs offer students a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in new cultures, broaden their perspectives and earn course credit while creating memories that will last long after they return to campus. To qualify for the study abroad program, students must be at least 18 years old, have a minimum GPA of 2.5 and have completed at least one semester on campus. The deadline to submit applications is Thursday, Nov. 19. Students can find more information on the university’s Study Abroad webpage, Instagram, or contact Study Abroad Director Julie Deyrup at julie.deyrup@ucumberlands.edu
Fall Back
The leaves are falling, and sweater weather is upon us. During this time, UC celebrates Homecoming. It was an exciting celebration that many students and alumni, look forward to each year. Cumberlands graduates returned to campus to support UC at the Homecoming football game on Oct. 24 at 6:00 p.m. as well as the Homecoming concert on Oct. 23 at 7:30 p.m. in Gatliff Chapel and the many other events on campus. Laura Adams, a UC alum from 2006, said that she comes back to visit her friends. Adams said, “Technology has made it easier to keep in contact; however, there is something special about meeting in person and getting to meet with the people who made UC such a unique experience.”
Speech & Debate
The University of the Cumberlands Speech and Debate team gives students a chance to build confidence, share their ideas and learn skills that can help them both inside and outside the classroom. The team competes against other colleges at local, regional and national tournaments. Students participate in different forms of speech and debate, where they can practice public speaking, research current issues, develop arguments and learn to think on their feet. All skills which are useful in future careers. Students do not have to miss out on the opportunity simply because they have never competed before. Those interested can learn more about the team and its activities by contacting coach Justin Durbin at justin.durbin@ucumberlands.edu.
Local
Trick or Treat
Fall Back: How the Time Change Affects Students As fall settles in, students will soon get an extra hour of sleep when daylight saving time ends on Sunday, Nov. 1. At 2 a.m., clocks will turn back to 1 a.m., giving everyone an extra hour in the day. However, the time change also means earlier sunsets and less evening daylight, which can make afternoon classes, studying and outdoor activities feel a little different. Students may enjoy the chance to catch up on rest, but adjusting sleep schedules can still take time. As the days grow shorter, students are encouraged to maintain healthy sleep routines and make the most of the daylight available.
The city of Williamsburg will celebrate Halloween with the University of the Cumberlands during its annual trick-or-treating and Trunk-or-Treat event on Saturday, Oct. 31. The event will run from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., bringing together local families, children, students and community members for an evening of costumes, candy and Halloween fun. The celebration will begin with trick-or-treating in downtown Williamsburg before continuing at the university’s Hutton School of Business parking lot, where visitors can enjoy decorated car trunks and collect treats. Those interested in attending can find additional information on the University of the Cumberlands Event page.
Mid-Term Elections
A Wandering Traveler
Mid-term Elections are on Nov. 3. These elections occur halfway through a U.S. president’s four-year term and play a crucial role in shaping the country’s political landscape. During these elections, voters select members of Congress, including all 435 seats in the House of Representatives and about one-third of the Senate. Additionally, many states hold elections for governors, state legislatures, and local offices. For students, participating in mid-term elections is straightforward. You can vote in person by returning to your home state’s polling PHOTO BY ROSEANNA DENTON location. Alternatively, most states offer absentee or mail-in voting options. To vote by mail, request an absentee ballot from your home state’s Whitley County welcomed an unexpected visitor on Sept. 23. election office, complete it and return it by the specified deadline. By Located by bird watcher, Misty Osborne, a young Sabine’s Gull was disstaying informed and planning ahead, students can make their voices covered at Laural River Lake. This species of Gull breeds in the Arctic, heard in these important elections. and winter on the coasts of Africa and South America. They tend to not migrate long distances over land, making this Kentucky visit so unusual. The sighting represented the first ever Whitley County record of its species, and the furthest eastern record in the state of Kentucky, in which fewer than 25 Sabine’s Gulls have ever been recorded. Little is known about why these birds end up so far from their normal path, but correlations have been made to inland birds found after cold fronts. Not unlike a cold front detected in eastern Kentucky on Sept. 22, with temperatures 20° lower than the day before.
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A4 . Tuesday, October 27, 2026 . The Patriot
Student Life
Beyond The Field
A Day in the Life of a Student-Athlete
PHOTO COURTESY OF UC ATHLETICS
BY: TAYLOR MOREN MANAGING EDITOR
For many college students, a typical day consists of attending classes, completing assignments and spending time with friends. However, for studentathletes at the University of the Cumberlands, balancing academics and athletics adds another layer of responsibility to their already busy schedules. For senior football player and exercise and sport science major Cole Ruehling, being a student-athlete means early mornings, long practices and late nights spent catching up on schoolwork. While the schedule can be demanding, Ruehling has learned to embrace the challenges that come with playing the sport he loves. On most mornings, Ruehling begins his day around 7:30 a.m., eating a small breakfast, showering and preparing for class. However, Wednesdays look a little different. “My day starts at 6 a.m. when I wake up and get ready for our morning football lift at 6:30,” Ruehling said. “That lasts until about 7:30, so I have a pretty quick turnaround to shower and get ready for my 8 a.m. class.” From there, his day is packed with responsibilities. After attending classes until approximately 1:30 p.m., Ruehling, a kicker for the Patriots, heads to football meetings from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m., followed by practice from 4 to 6 p.m. While his athletic responsibilities may end in the evening, his day is far from over. Once practice concludes, Ruehling spends much of his remaining time completing homework and catching up with friends. “It’s definitely a busy day, but I’ve gotten used to the routine,” Ruehling said. With such a demanding schedule, time management is essential. Ruehling explained that football requires the most planning because
practices, meetings and workouts are scheduled around the team’s needs rather than his personal availability. “Since football takes up a big part of my day, I have to make sure I’m using my free time wisely to stay on top of schoolwork,” Ruehling said. Finding time for meals, studying and socializing can also be challenging. Ruehling often fits meals between classes or before practice, leaving most of his homework for the evening. However, having friends who share similar responsibilities makes the experience more enjoyable. “I’m pretty lucky because most of my friends here are also on the football team,” Ruehling said. “So I get to spend time with them every day while playing the sport I love, which makes balancing everything a little easier.” Despite having a routine, Ruehling admits that one of the biggest challenges of being a student-athlete is finding time to relax. “Between football and school, things can get pretty stressful at times, and it feels like you’re always doing something or have somewhere to be,” he said. For Ruehling, relaxation often comes through simple moments that allow him to reconnect with life outside of college. One of his favorite parts of the day is calling his parents and playing Xbox with friends from back home. “Being away at college can be hard sometimes, and I definitely miss being home,” Ruehling said. “It’s a nice way to relax and still feel connected to home even when I’m away.” Although his weekdays are structured around classes and football, game days bring a different focus. Rather than following a completely different routine, Ruehling emphasizes the importance of mental preparation before stepping onto the field. “The biggest difference is making sure I’m mentally prepared and getting myself in the right mindset to go out and compete,” Ruehling said.
PHOTO COURTESY OF UC ATHLETICS
Of course, not every day goes according to plan. Between academics, athletics and unexpected responsibilities, flexibility has become another important part of Ruehling’s routine. “I’ve always had the mindset that I can only control what I can control,” Ruehling said. “I’ve learned that not everything is going to go exactly as planned, so you just have to be flexible and make it work.” As a senior, Ruehling has had the opportunity to reflect on how his experiences at Cumberlands have shaped him both as an athlete and as a person. Beyond the practices, games, and early-morning workouts, he believes the lessons he has learned will continue to benefit him long after his football career. “It’s taught me valuable lessons about time management, discipline, and how to handle adversity, both on and off the field,” Ruehling said. While being a student-athlete comes with sacrifices, Ruehling remains thankful for the opportunities, friendships and memories he has made throughout his college experience. “I’ve grown a lot as a person through my experiences here, and I wouldn’t trade them for anything,” Ruehling said. “I’m really grateful for my time here so far.” For Ruehling, life as a Cumberlands football player is about more than what happens on the field. It is about learning to balance responsibilities, build lasting friendships, and prepare for whatever comes next.
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A5 . Tuesday, October 27, 2026 . The Patriot
Student Life
Screens, Routines, and Dopamine The Effects of Social Media and Screentime on Mental Health
PHOTO BY KURSTON ISON
BY: ALICJA WILLIS STAFF WRITER
For many students, a phone is one of the first things they use in the morning and one of the last things they put away at night. Phones and laptops have become a normal part of academic life. They are used for studying, working, staying in touch with friends and keeping up with everyday responsibilities. Problems arise, however, when screen use begins to affect sleep, concentration and overall well-being. In an anonymous questionnaire given to UC students, participants were asked to report their average daily phone usage. Based on responses from 20 students at the University of the Cumberlands, the average daily phone screen time was 4 hours and 56 minutes. The number of hours alone, however, does not tell the whole story. Two hours spent writing a paper are very different from two hours spent scrolling through short videos. What matters is not only how long a device is used, but also what it is being used for and how that use affects daily life. Celin Ullern, one of the UC students surveyed, believes the amount of time some college students spend on their phones is excessive. “Yes, I believe college students spend too much time on their phones. I have a lot of friends who spend at least 8 hours a day on their phones, and most of that time is spent scrolling social media. I believe that time could be spent on something more productive, such as studying or spending quality time with friends.” One reason it can be difficult to put down a phone is that it is connected to the brain’s reward system. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter involved in motivation, learning and rewardrelated behavior. It helps the brain learn which behaviors may lead to a reward and may be worth repeating. A new like, comment, message or
interesting video can appear at unpredictable times. A person does not know exactly what will appear after refreshing an app, and this uncertainty may encourage repeated checking. Smartphone habits cannot be explained by dopamine alone, but unpredictable rewards may still play a role. Social media also has many benefits. It helps people stay in contact with family and friends, find information about campus events and relax after a stressful day. At the same time, social media often shows a very selective version of other people’s lives. People are more likely to post vacations, achievements, workouts or good grades than stress, money problems or failed exams. For some users, constantly seeing these positive moments can make it seem like everyone else is doing better. UC student Keegan Musgrove sees social media as an important way to build connections that may not happen face-to-face. “Social media helps you feel more connected by helping you get out there and connect with more people through opportunities you don’t get in person.” Another important topic is sleep. Screens produce visible light at different wavelengths. Shorter wavelengths, especially in the blue part of the spectrum, can affect specialized light-sensitive cells in the retina that help send information to brain regions involved in controlling the circadian rhythm. Melatonin is one of the hormones involved in this process, and its levels normally rise in the evening as the body prepares for sleep. However, blue light from a phone is not the only issue. Brightness, how long the screen is used, the time of day and simply staying awake longer than planned can all matter. For students, lack of sleep can also affect learning. Sleep plays an important role in memory consolidation, which is the process of strengthening information learned during the day.
Phones have also become a common way to fill even very short breaks. The same thing can happen while studying. A difficult assignment requires focus, while a short video provides an immediate change of stimulation. A short break can quickly turn into a much longer period of procrastination. After an interruption, attention must be redirected to the original task. Because of this, checking a phone repeatedly while studying can make several hours of study time contain much less actual focused work. UC student RJ Gilreath also pointed to short-form content as a possible problem for attention: “Short-form content can be a trap for all students, especially students with ADHD.” Removing phones and social media completely from students’ lives would be neither realistic nor necessary. Turning off unnecessary notifications, keeping a phone away while studying, reducing social media use before bed or simply checking screen-time statistics can all be useful. Instead of treating every minute of screen time as harmful, it makes more sense to think about what is happening during that time and what the screen time may be replacing. If an extra hour on a phone means one less hour of sleep, that is very different from using a screen for a class assignment or to talk to a friend. The goal should not be to completely avoid screens, but to find a reasonable balance among the digital world, sleep, learning, physical activity and face-to-face interaction. In the end, the most important question may not simply be how many hours appear in the phone’s screentime settings. A better question may be: Is phone use still a conscious choice, or is it slowly becoming an automatic habit?
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A6 . Tuesday, October 27, 2026 . The Patriot
Student Life
Making UC Feel like Home
New Professors Bring Encouragement, Enthusiasm and Experience to Students
PHOTO COURTESY OF ERIC TAYLOR
BY: JILLIAN CROSS STAFF WRITER
As the University of the Cumberlands begins a new bi-term, students are settling into new classes, new schedules and for some, new professors. While some students have already spent the semester getting to know their instructors, others may be meeting them for the first time as eight-week courses begin. Among the newest faces on campus are Eric Taylor, assistant professor in the Chemistry Department; Rachel Thomas, assistant professor in the English Department; and Emma Vakiener, adjunct professor of trumpet in the Music Department. Each brings a unique background, valuable experience and enthusiasm for connecting with students as they settle into their roles at Cumberlands. For Taylor, joining the faculty at Cumberlands is a full-circle moment. Originally from Nicholasville, Kentucky, Taylor first came to Cumberlands as a student looking for a college close to home where he could also play soccer. However, it was his time in the Chemistry Department that sparked an interest that would eventually turn into a career. “It was once I was here that I fell in love with the chemistry department and began my educational and eventual career path in the field of chemistry,” Taylor said. After graduating, Taylor earned his master’s degree from the University of Arkansas, where he researched precious metal nanomaterials. He later gained experience teaching at Jefferson Community and Technical College and working in the chemical manufacturing industry. Now, nearly 16 years later, Taylor finds himself back at Cumberlands, this time teaching some of the same classes he once took. “Being a former student at the University of the Cumberlands, it felt just right
PHOTO COURTESY OF EMMA VAKIENER
coming back to where I started my career in chemistry,” Taylor said. Looking ahead, Taylor hopes to continue the legacy of the professors who helped shape his own experience at Cumberlands. With a background in both education and industry, he wants to be someone students can turn to for guidance, whether they plan to continue their education or enter the workforce. “My hope is that students can use my experience as good advice regardless of where their education or career takes them after they leave the University of the Cumberlands,” Taylor said. Another familiar face returning to Cumberlands is Thomas, who graduated from the university in 2013 with a degree in English before earning her master’s degree from Western Kentucky University. She later returned to Cumberlands to pursue a Master of Arts in Teaching and is currently completing her Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing at Spalding University. After nine years of teaching high school and working as an adjunct instructor, Thomas is excited to be back at the university that helped shape her own college experience. “UC was a foundational part of my life, and my undergraduate years here were a formative experience,” Thomas said. This semester, Thomas is teaching Introduction to College Writing and Introduction to Creative Writing, with Fiction Writing joining her schedule in the spring. While she looks forward to sharing her passion for creative writing, Thomas also enjoys working with students who are just beginning their college journeys. “Those first days of college are exciting, but they can also be a little intimidating,” Thomas said. She hopes her classes help students gain confidence in their writing and feel prepared for the challenges ahead. For Vakiener, this academic year marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter. She earned her bachelor’s degree in instrumental
PHOTO COURTESY OF RACHEL THOMAS
music education from Ithaca College in 2023 and her master’s degree in Trumpet Performance from the University of Kentucky in 2026. She is currently pursuing her doctorate at the University of Kentucky while beginning her teaching career at Cumberlands. Her musical experiences have taken her to some exciting places, including performances at Jazz at Lincoln Center in New York City and appearances in national and international trumpet competitions. Vakiener was drawn to Cumberlands by its close-knit community and the enthusiasm she saw among students and faculty. Although this is her first official teaching position, she has already felt welcomed on campus. “Everyone I have interacted with on some level has been so welcoming and encouraging, which has made me feel less nervous,” Vakiener said. She also enjoyed teaching Music Appreciation during the first bi-term, particularly the opportunity to gain experience leading a larger classroom. Looking ahead, Vakiener is excited to work with her trumpet students and help them discover their own musical identities as they prepare for opportunities after graduation. “As an educator, I am so eager to help them find their own musical identity and help them prepare to achieve their short and long-term goals,” Vakiener said. As the new bi-term gets underway, these three professors are continuing to find their places within the Cumberland community. Whether students have already gotten to know them this semester or are just now seeing them in class, Taylor, Thomas and Vakiener are looking forward to sharing their knowledge, experiences and enthusiasm with students. So, whether it’s a familiar face from the first bi-term or someone new at the front of the classroom, take the opportunity to say hello and get to know the people helping make Cumberlands feel like home.
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A7 . Tuesday, October 27, 2026 . The Patriot
Musclemaxxing
Campus Life
Two Student’s Journeys of Discipline in and out of the Weight Room
PHOTO BY ETHAN WELLS
BY: TAYLOR MOREN AND UGNE TAKUSEVICIUTE
MANAGING EDITOR, DESIGN EDITOR
Building muscle takes more than time in the gym. For University of the Cumberlands students Addie Bingham and Matei Radu, bodybuilding represents a commitment to discipline, patience and personal growth. Bingham, a 20-year-old sophomore and business major from Corbin, Kentucky, is preparing for her first bodybuilding competition in the coming year. Radu, a freshman from Romania, double majoring in business administration as well as fitness and exercise science, has developed a passion for building muscle and plans to pursue bodybuilding more fully in the future. Although their journeys began differently, both have learned that progress depends on the choices they make every day. Bingham began her fitness journey approximately two years ago after deciding to improve her physical and mental health. After losing a significant amount of weight, she hired a coach. Watching another team member prepare for a bodybuilding competition inspired her to set her own goal: to step on stage.
For the past six months, Bingham has followed a structured training and nutrition routine. She eats five meals daily, trains four days each week and completes approximately 25 minutes of cardio during each session. She also practices posing nearly every day. Managing those responsibilities alongside college requires organization. “Honestly, I try to set myself a time every day to do my schoolwork and then a time when I go to the gym or prep my meals,” Bingham said. Radu became interested in building muscle at 16, when he joined a gym with his best friend. What began as curiosity about fitness and nutrition developed into a passion for challenging himself. “You cannot buy your body; you have to work for it. The more you work, the better results you get,” Radu said. He also appreciates the gym’s encouraging environment and the satisfaction of knowing his progress comes from his own effort. For both students, one of bodybuilding’s biggest lessons has been accepting that results take time. “A huge thing I’m having to learn through bodybuilding is delayed gratification,” Bingham said. “Working hard for something now to see the rewards later on stage.” Radu shares that perspective, encouraging beginners to look beyond
PHOTO BY ANDREW JOHNSON
immediate physical changes. “Bodybuilding is not a sprint; it’s a marathon,” Radu said. Both recognize that sleep, nutrition and recovery are essential to building muscle. Their commitment extends beyond individual workouts into routines that support their goals. Bingham is currently focused on building muscle during her offseason. As her first competition approaches, she values the opportunity to step on stage confidently, knowing she has committed to the process. Radu similarly measures success through consistency and effort. “You can be a winner just by doing the work and showing up,” Radu said. Their experiences show how bodybuilding can strengthen confidence while teaching patience and accountability. For students interested in beginning their own journey, Bingham encourages them to take the first step. “If it is something you are truly passionate about, just start!” Bingham said. For Bingham and Radu, bodybuilding is an ongoing commitment to becoming stronger through the daily work that enables long-term progress.
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A8 . Tuesday, October 27, 2026 . The Patriot
Entertainment
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