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Chapter 6: The Screen Between Me and Myself

Wednesday, July 16th, 2025

I was convinced I had everything under control in high school, and I even signed up for a debate on “How Media and Devices Shape the Youth.” And guess what? I argued passionately about how my phone helps us stay connected, learn faster, and express ourselves. And honestly, they do — but only if we know where to draw the line. ​​

But looking back… I wasn’t defending this media and devices. I was defending my dependence on it. I was using “productivity” and “connection” as a mask to avoid admitting the truth: I couldn’t go ten minutes without checking my phone. That it gave me dopamine hits, I didn’t want to give up. That I needed it more than I wanted to admit.

For the longest time, I thought this addiction started in college, but the truth is,  it’s been with me for years. I just didn’t realize it until now. You might wonder how I didn’t notice it back in high school. Well…I was wrapped up in my ego back then. My mom used to tell me I was addicted to my phone, but I would always brush it off. In my mind, as long as I kept my GPA high, it didn’t count as a real problem. And to be fair, I was pulling 90s, even while glued to my screen. So I thought, “How bad could it be?”

But then college hit, things changed. My grades slipped. My confidence collapsed. Suddenly, the tricks that used to work didn’t anymore. My ability to multitask, to study with distractions, to function while constantly checking notifications — it all failed me. And for the first time, I couldn’t deny it: this was an addiction. 

I started to realize that my phone had become a coping mechanism. Any time I felt anxious, bored, lonely, or overwhelmed, I’d reach for it without thinking. 

One thing I’ve really started to notice is how much my behavior has changed. I’m almost always in a bad mood. I barely have the will to do anything, even the basics. It’s like I’m constantly stuck in this fog, and I can’t shake it. I used to have drive, ideas, and things I wanted to get done. But now, even getting out of bed feels like a chore. Everything feels forced, like I’m running on empty.

It hasn’t just affected how I feel, it’s affected how I treat the people around me, too. My relationships with my family and friends have started to change, and not in a good way. I’ve become more impatient, more distant. I snap at people for no reason. I zone out when they’re talking to me. I’ve noticed myself getting irritated over the smallest things. I give short replies, ignore calls, and cancel plans. And the truth is, it’s not because I don’t care. It’s because I don’t have it in me to care the way I used to. I’m so caught up in my own fatigue, my own scrolling, my own world on a screen, that I’ve started pushing people away without even realizing it.

The worst part of dependence is that you don’t know how to stop. And even when you do know, it still feels like you can’t. You feel trapped in your own habits, in your own head. And you keep hoping one day you’ll just snap out of it.

But change doesn’t come all at once. It starts with awareness. With honesty. With moments like this, you finally stop pretending everything’s fine and admit that something needs to shift.

And that’s where I am now. I don’t have it all figured out. But I’ve stopped lying to myself. I’ve started setting limits. Whether in the form of feeling guilty after every doomscroll, or setting a timer, or just acknowledging the limit. I’ve started trying, even if it’s messy and slow. Because at the end of the day, I still believe in who I can become. I still believe there’s a version of me out there who’s more present, more connected, not to a screen, but to life.

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By Marzia Seemat

Marzia Seemat is a sophomore at NYU studying civil engineering and creative writing. She loves being close to nature, especially at the beach. Her favorite things include good food, morning tea, hour-long movies, and spending time with the people she loves.

For over 25 years, the Campus Clipper has helped college students in New York City—and later in Boston and Philadelphia—save money and succeed in city life. We offer a digital coupon booklet with discounts on food, clothing, and services, plus an Official Student Guidebook with real advice on how to navigate college life in a big city. Our internship program lets students build skills, earn money, and publish their own e-books. Follow us on Instagram and TikTok @CampusClipper, and sign up for our newsletter to get deals straight to your inbox. To access the digital coupons, scan the QR code on our printed card—available in dorms, student centers, and around campus.

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Posted in Creativity, Friendship, NYC Student Guide, on Writing, onHealth, Relationships, Social Media Learning, student discounts, Studying | No Comments »

You’re Not Weak… You’re Human

Wednesday, June 25th, 2025

Mental health is one of those things you don’t always notice slipping, especially in a college setting. When I first entered college, I had never really believed in mental health. I believed that mental health was an excuse to not be present and to neglect your responsibilities. Throughout my time in college, I always had the mentally of pushing through the hardships and problems I have had and as opposed to blaming it on mental health.

In the beginning of my spring 2025 semester, I was diagnosed with generalized anxiety disorder. Further into the semester, I was then diagnosed with depression, which is commonly linked with anxiety. These diagnoses made me realize I was not above mental health. I spent a lot of time trying to recognize the factors that played into my depression and anxiety so that I can control my feelings and emotions and be the best version of myself in college. 

At the end of the semester, I had realized that my mental health wasn’t just a personal issue, it was my overall full-body experience. It impacted my appetite, my energy, my physical movement. My lack of motivation led to skipped meals. My anxiety led to late-night scrolling and poor sleep. My depression made me cancel plans, which led to loneliness. The more I ignored my mental health, the worse my wellness and fitness became. 

Then, I learned that these diagnoses correlated with my scoliosis. I also felt very self-conscious of my scoliosis, as in making sure I was covering up my back with a sweater in hot weather or fixing my posture so no one would notice and make fun of what I call “my hump.” When I reflect, I understand that I continue to live in fear of people seeing my back and making fun of it. I also believe that the family and friends I kept around were not very supportive of my health, prompting me to be upset and push my anxiety with my back further.

When it comes to depression and anxiety, I have learned that I need to surround myself with people who are sympathetic to my health and make me feel better about myself and more supported. Going into my senior year of college, I have a few pointers that will help me manage my mental health. The first one is to not minimize it. Saying “I’m just tired” or  “I’m just having a rough day” when you’re actually overwhelmed doesn’t help. Being honest with yourself and your feelings are the most important. The second one is to establish a good routine. Even if it’s waking up, eating, going for a walk, doing one assignment, etc., it can create a sense of structure when everything feels chaotic. The third one is the most important one for me, and that is to stay connected. Isolation can make mental health worse. Reaching out to someone such as a friend, a resident assistant, or a counselor can help you feel seen and heard. The last one is to practice small moments of joy. Whether it’s music, sunlight, journaling, or your favorite snack, the small things you love can spark comfort or meaning.

Three college students relaxing. Image Credit: https://admissions.usf.edu/blog/the-importance-of-sleep-for-college-students

College is hard enough on its own. Adding mental health challenges can feel unbearable, but struggling doesn’t make you weak. It makes you human, and you’re allowed to pause, ask for help, and heal on your own timeline. Just know that you are not alone in feeling this way and it doesn’t make you broken. You’re doing your best and that’s more than enough.

Whether I’m painting on easels or coloring in my coloring book, art is a great way for me to relax and focus my mind. Bring a group of 8 and use code CAMPUSCLIPPER for $50 off!

By: Yamilia Ford

Yamilia Ford is a rising senior at Pace University with a major in business management and three minors in journalism, creative writing, and film studies. Her passion for writing allows her to inspire through her own creative lens, giving people the opportunity to relate to her.

For over 20 years, the Campus Clipper has been offering awesome student discounts in NYC, from the East Side to Greenwich Village. Along with inspiration, the company offers students a special coupon booklet and the Official Student Guide, which encourages them to discover new places in the city and save money on food, clothing, and services. At the Campus Clipper, not only do we help our interns learn new skills, make money, and create wonderful e-books, we give them a platform to teach others. Check our website for more student savings and watch our YouTube video showing off some of New York City’s finest students during the Welcome Week of 2015.

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What is “wellness” anyway?

Friday, June 20th, 2025

Wellness.

It’s everywhere, and it’s constantly making  its way into our daily lives. Whether it’s Tiktok influencers buying concerning amounts of expensive makeup and skincare to “prevent aging” and look as young and pristine as possible, or other influencers posting mind-boggling exercise routines to achieve unattainable body standards, it feels as though what was once known as wellness simply isn’t well anymore – it’s junk. 

It’s particularly overwhelming to consider the amount of young adults like myself who use these types of apps and succumb to this information. According to Pew Research Center, 78% of 18- to 29-year-olds say they use Instagram, and 62% of 18- to 29-year-olds say they use TikTok. Looking at other studies, such as a survey done by Katrine Wallace, an assistant professor at the University of Chicago, 56% of Gen Z use platforms like TikTok for health advice without double checking sources. Recent studies also show the way in which young adults are more unhappy than ever before, lowering the happiness curve which should be higher for young adults aged 18-29. When combined with uncertainties of the future and higher risks of anxiety and depression due to isolation from peers and family, how does that affect a time where one is supposed to find who they are, and find the people that will ultimately become colleagues or lifelong friends? How do we combat a never ending cycle of isolation caused by being on our phones for hours without end, while also making sure to take care of ourselves and enrich our brains?

Coming off from my first year of college at NYU, these are some tips I would encourage you to try in order to feel peace, happiness, and zen while balancing a new environment, peers, and classes.

I. Exercise

Running along the Hudson River Park.

New York City is the perfect backdrop to get into any form of exercise, but my favorite is running. Being a Cross Country and Track runner in high school, one of the first ways I tried to find community was through running, and luckily NYU has a running club where I was able to do many 5K, 10K and even my first half marathon with!

Me, excited after running the Brooklyn Half Marathon in April.

Even when it comes to exercising alone, running along the Hudson River Greenway has been one of my go to spots for tranquility, great views, and fresh air. Being cooped up all day in a dorm room, library, or classroom is not going to make you feel productive; being active often gives you the clarity needed to do assignments and tasks with your brain feeling much more resetted. Even if running isn’t the sport for you, finding time outside whether it’s window shopping, drinking a warm coffee on a rainy day while strolling the streets, or even hitting the gym for a good weight training session is enough to be a productive yet enjoyable break from the hustle of school work. Being in such a walkable city allows for exercise to happen even without thinking, and some of the best ways I have gotten around have been by simply running throughout New York and seeing what is out there.

II. Nutrition

Late night run to Joe’s Pizza.

I love NYC Pizza like anyone else, but if I had to constantly eat it I think my body would shut down. Finding ways to eat healthy (getting fiber, protein, carbs, and healthy fats) will ultimately lead you to feel satiated, energized, and may even improve your mood and alertness if you tend to feel fatigued. Oftentimes, college is the first time in which you are let go from the foods that your parents would constantly give you, and being on your own often leads to people struggling to find or maintain a healthy relationship with food. It is so important to learn what foods really fuel your body, because at the end of the day I find that money is best spent on what makes your body feel its best.

Mid-day lunch break at Le Botaniste.

One of my favourite places to have lunch in the city, Le Botaniste, has locally sourced plant based meals at pretty affordable prices. Eating there always makes me feel comforted, happy, and leaves me knowing that my body is going to feel rewarded with nutrients that will help me go about my day. My roommate and I also got heavily into making our own smoothies, which in NYC can be quite expensive. Buying ingredients such as frozen fruit, coconut milk, and getting bananas from the dining hall were ways in which we saved money while also eating something that is equally as nutritious as it is delicious. Being creative and economical is all it takes, along with some effort into researching, to find what foods are best for your body and will leave you feeling happy in the process. When you have a the late-night craving though, Joe’s is a classic to hit up.

III. Social Connections

Me, out with some friends on my birthday.

One of the most important tips I can give anyone entering college – GO OUT THERE!! College is the last time where you are in a generally controlled environment, often living with people roughly your age, and getting your first taste of what it’s like to be an adult. Find the people and circles where you feel heard, seen, and appreciated. There is nothing worse than having people around you that don’t care about you and your well-being, and finding the people who see you for who you are is what will make college feel like home.  Join clubs, try new activities, and share aspects of yourself that you once thought were silly or that you have never had the opportunity to do so otherwise. Finding the people is the most crucial step in making college feel enjoyable and doable, especially when classes start feeling rough and time feels like it’s slipping away.

Enjoying some watercolor painting and coffee at Moshava Coffee.

Find the connections that will be there for you when you first come onto campus so that when those times come, you know who has your back. Another great tip I would advise is to enjoy your own company. College gets hectic and not everyone is available to hang out all the time, so learning to appreciate the amazing person you are and enjoy the variety of solo activities there are out there will help combat boredom, and maybe even help you find out new and exciting things about yourself.

Wellness means a lot of things for different people, but the main thing that comes to mind when I think of wellness is how subjective it is. Finding what makes me feel well, healthy, secure, and happy may be completely different to what makes you feel well, healthy, secure, and happy – and that’s completely okay! The main thing I would suggest is to be open to new ideas of wellness, confide in people who have your back, try new things, and take advantage of the resources, people, and opportunities that lie at your fingertips. 

Maybe that’s what wellness is. A community. Your community. Be brave, and open doors to find it.

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By Avril Walter

Avril Walter is a Sophomore at New York University, majoring in Drama and Cinema Studies. Coming from an Argentinian background, she loves anything related to futbol, steak, and dulce de leche. When she is not in class, she can be found playing the violin, running, cooking, or at the movie theatre.

For over 25 years, the Campus Clipper has helped college students in New York City—and later in Boston and Philadelphia—save money and succeed in city life. We offer a digital coupon booklet with discounts on food, clothing, and services, plus an Official Student Guidebook with real advice on how to navigate college life in a big city. Our internship program lets students build skills, earn money, and publish their own e-books. Follow us on Instagram and TikTok @CampusClipper, and sign up for our newsletter to get deals straight to your inbox. To access the digital coupons, scan the QR code on our printed card—available in dorms, student centers, and around campus.

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The Body I Brought To College

Tuesday, June 17th, 2025

The first thing they tell you when you enter the world of college is to make your health and wellness a priority and that downtime is important. As a college student, you are constantly thinking about the assignments to turn in, the exam you need to cram for since it’s worth forty percent of your grade, or the big group project that your professor recommends starting two weeks into the semester even though it isn’t due until the end of the year. 

Your health and wellness is an essential part in being successful in your college experience, but it isn’t about hitting the gym or eating a salad. They’re about how your body functions, how you manage stress, and how you show up for yourself every day. In college, it’s easy to treat your body like an afterthought and not prioritize the key functions such as sleep, nutrition, and movement. When you don’t listen to your body, it starts speaking louder through exhaustion, illness, and burnout, which can make it difficult to perform at your full potential best in all areas of college.

A college student suffering from burnout. Image credit: https://songdochronicle.com/2384/latest-posts/am-i-lazy-or-exhausted-academic-burnout-rises-among-university-students/

My entire life, I have suffered from severe scoliosis, a condition where my spine is curved in an “s” shape. Although I have managed this condition throughout my life, when I entered college, it gave me several different challenges that I didn’t realize I’d have to face. Nurturing a proper sleep schedule, having good eating habits, and maintaining minimal movement are important in college, as it can balance out the academic stressors. Before college, I never really thought twice about my body. Even with my medical condition, I ate when I was hungry, slept when I was supposed to, and was at my peak physically. Once I entered college, I didn’t realize that the pressures of academics in combination with my medical condition would make my time in college even more challenging than expected, forcing me to rethink everything about wellness and fitness. A lot of days, my body feels like it’s working against me. I wake up tired, my muscles ache, and I can’t push myself the way other students can. It’s frustrating and isolating, but it’s also taught me the importance of listening to my body and honoring its limits.

I’ve learned to be intentional about rest and my sleep schedule. At night, I give myself a 9 p.m curfew and a bedtime of 10 p.m, which allows me to relax before I close my eyes so that I can sleep better at night. I’ve also had to redefine what fitness meant for me, meaning going on nice, long walks around the city, doing yoga, or choreographing dances to keep myself loose. Everybody’s health and wellness looks different in college, but there are very consistent ways to make sure that your health and wellness are acknowledged and prioritized. First, sleep is non-negotiable. It is recommended to get 8 hours of sleep, so aiming for 7 to 9 hours is best. You should fuel your body consistently. It’s okay to eat what’s available, but try to include whole foods when you can, especially fruits, protein, and complex carbs. You should also move with intention, even if it’s 10 minutes a day. Find movement that feels good for you. Although it’s okay to push yourself, you shouldn’t push yourself too hard, because it’s supposed to feel invigorating and reviving instead of feeling like an obligation. The most important aspect is to be honest with yourself and your needs. Whether you live with a health condition or not, give yourself grace and adapt your routines accordingly. 

Wellness and fitness isn’t about being perfect, it’s about being aware. Although college stresses the importance of academics, it is important to prioritize health and wellness. Your body is the one place you have to live in during college. Take care of it like it’s your most valuable asset.

Nibble Fitness is a great way to help you with your wellness and fitness! Use your student I.D to schedule your complementary fitness assessment!

By: Yamilia Ford

Yamilia Ford is a rising senior at Pace University with a major in business management and three minors in journalism, creative writing, and film studies. Her passion for writing allows her to inspire through her own creative lens, giving people the opportunity to relate to her.

For over 20 years, the Campus Clipper has been offering awesome student discounts in NYC,  from the East Side to Greenwich Village. Along with inspiration, the company offers students a special coupon booklet and the Official Student Guide, which encourages them to discover new places in the city and save money on food, clothing, and services.  

At the Campus Clipper, not only do we help our interns learn new skills, make money, and create wonderful e-books, we give them a platform to teach others. Check our website for more student savings and watch our YouTube video showing off some of New York City’s finest students during the Welcome Week of 2015.

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Is There Ever One “True” College Experience?

Wednesday, June 11th, 2025

College is often dubbed “the best years of your life” as it is filled with personal freedom, growth, and discovery. Although college brings you amazing memories and provides you the chance to learn a lot about who you are, the overall experience can be very draining and tough. 

For many of us, college is the first time we are away from the only thing we’ve ever known for the first eighteen years of our life. When we go away, we are expected to live our lives in our own way, which can be overwhelming for anyone, whether you are freshly eighteen or a forty year old adult. The pressure of college can have an adverse affect on even the most prepared and put together personality, so it’s very important to take care of yourself and know that success doesn’t have to mean perfection. 

A college student stressing over academics
Image Credit: https://eduadvisor.my/articles/avoid-stress-college-7-stress-management-tips-students

In the world of college, one of the hardest truths I’ve had to accept throughout my time is that everyone’s college experience is different. When I first arrived in college, I thought I was the most put together and prepared I could have ever been, which allowed me to have the mindset of being the staple college student that everyone wants to be. As I progressed throughout the years, I realized that there are so many different ways to do college. Some people show up with a full ride scholarship, while others take out loans due to financial stress. Some people have an amazing support system, while others carry emotional baggage. Some graduate on the usual four-year plan, while others graduate earlier or later. In college, I learned that nobody is on an even playing field and that it’s ok to walk a different walk than anyone else.

My college thus far has been anything from a “normal” experience. There have been many ups and downs. I’ve learned a lot about myself and the person I want to be through the experiences I have had, the difficulties I have faced, and the lessons I have learned and will continue to learn as I go into my final year.

When I first started college, I went into it thinking it was all about making friends and prioritizing getting the best grades possible. Although I knew there were more factors that went into college, I always thought that those were the two things that carry your college experience. I also knew that college would be physically and mentally draining, but not the extent to which I’ve experienced throughout the years. 

As I reflect on the three years I’ve been in college, I look back on all the times I felt fatigued and exhausted, simply due to the lack of sleep I was getting, the minimal movement and exercise I was doing, and not fueling myself with nutritious foods and water. Because of the demanding nature that comes with college, in large part of the academic stressors, I’ve realized that by not prioritizing these things affected both my mind and body alike. If I didn’t get enough sleep, my focus throughout the day suffered. If I didn’t take the time to go on walks or exercise consistently, my body felt stiff. If I didn’t eat properly, my energy throughout the day would decline. 

College is more than academics and social life. It’s a journey of learning how to take care of your whole self. As I enter my final year, I’ve learned that real success in college isn’t about perfection, but about balance, resilience, and gaining self-worth. Whatever you do, what your college life brings you, it’s important to recognize that you should be proud of who you are and the accomplishments you have and will continue to do. 

And to those of you looking for a way to relax and prioritize your wellness, check out beauty and bliss spa where you can save 10% with coupon or student I.D!

By: Yamilia Ford

Yamilia Ford is a rising senior at Pace University with a major in business management and three minors in journalism, creative writing, and film studies. Her passion for writing allows her to inspire through her own creative lens, giving people the opportunity to relate to her.

For over 20 years, the Campus Clipper has been offering awesome student discounts in NYC, from the East Side to Greenwich Village. Along with inspiration, the company offers students a special coupon booklet and the Official Student Guide, which encourages them to discover new places in the city and save money on food, clothing, and services. At the Campus Clipper, not only do we help our interns learn new skills, make money, and create wonderful e-books, we give them a platform to teach others. Check our website for more student savings and watch our YouTube video showing off some of New York City’s finest students during the Welcome Week of 2015.

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Just Around the Corner: Uncle Ted’s

Friday, May 23rd, 2025

Uncle Ted’s, unlike the name suggests, is an authentic, modern Chinese restaurant in the heart of Greenwich Village. Just around the corner from New York University, this unique establishment blends traditional Asian cuisine and curated American flavors to create a tasteful experience. My friend Tenzin and I spent an evening pouring over their descriptive menu, under gilded lamps and glowing lights. The romantic atmosphere was perfect for a date night, or a much-needed catch-up between close friends.

The beautifully decorated interior of Uncle Ted’s.

We began with two show-stopping appetizers. First was the crunchy, mouthwatering sweet and spicy crispy beef. These thinly sliced pieces were golden brown and generously seasoned. Our second shared platter was a dish of cold sesame noodles seasoned with peanut and cucumber.

The crispy, golden brown appetizer, served piping hot.

“The cold noodles were plated very nicely, even aesthetically, with the peanut sauce and cucumbers on top. The peanut sauce went unexpectedly very nicely with the slippery noodles,” Tenzin reviewed honestly. “The sweet and sour beef was light and crunchy. It also had a nice balance of the intense flavors that weren’t too overpowering.”

The peanut sauce cold noodles serves quickly to our table.

The next platter presented had four pieces of pork-shrimp shumai—soft, delicate, and bite-sized, perfect for a small appetizer. I appreciated their vibrant colors and careful wrappings, which were a perfect transition to the equally appealing entrees. 

“It had a very smooth texture and had bright color in the middle. I was able to eat it one bite and it was a great option to start with,” Tenzin stated.

We shared a sautéed flank steak with broccoli, with such elevated flavors on a classic dish. This classic beef platter is often found on the menus of Chinese takeout restaurants, retaining its popular seasonings but with a beautiful presentation.

Tenzin happily presents the twice-cooked pork with greens.

”Beef and broccoli is always a good combo that can’t do no wrong! Uncle’s Ted’s steak tasted great coupled with the broccoli. It had a mixture of chewy and crunchy textures,” Tenzin consulted.

As for the second main course, a large serving of double-cooked pork belly was set on the table with mixed vegetables and varying flavors. We washed down our meals with an ice-cold peach drink for Tenzin and a sweet brown sugar beverage for me. My glass had an excellent presentation, with a dark chestnut-colored syrup lining the rim.

“The pork belly with greens was crispy and light. It had just enough spice that didn’t overdo it,” Tenzin concluded.

Our evening spread of spiced pork and sweet steak.

Our delightful experience as Uncle Ted’s was unmatched by other New York City Chinese restaurants, as the establishment was chic and classy, yet affordable and tasty. It would serve as a perfect date spot with a partner or an easy choice for a group dinner, particularly for students in the NYU area. This underrated and overlooked sit-down restaurant offers a wide assortment of flavors for its customers, made more accessible with their coupon from the Campus Clipper. Students are able to redeem a discount when they present the image below with their valid student ID.

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Tasting With Thomas: Bareburger

Wednesday, April 30th, 2025

Welcome back! You’re tuning into the second edition of Tasting With Thomas, where I explore the affordable eats that New York City has to offer. As an avid connoisseur of dining atmospheres, interesting flavors, and a good sweet treat I hopped over to Bareburger’s Upper West Side location for a fresh dining experience.

Walking into the restaurant, I was immediately struck by its bright and welcoming ambiance. From the big windows letting in natural lighting, to the modern diner decorations, I could feel the space’s light and uplifting energy.

Before getting into my meal, I was able to take advantage of Bareburger’s happy hour. Inspired by the flowers blooming this springtime, I ordered a hibiscus margarita for only $9. Not only was I satisfied by the herbal flavors, but the elegant presentation with lime, sugar rim, and even a hibiscus flower left me swooning and satisfied!

By this point I’d worked up my appetite and was ready to order. With such a wide variety of options, from wraps to burgers to sandwiches, to even salads, I was having a tough time making a choice. Usually my vegan diet restrictions do most of the deciding for me, but I was more than relieved to find an amazing amount of vegan options throughout the selection.  

Thankfully, the lovely staff referred me to the customize your own option near the bottom of their menu. Right away, I started crafting the perfect meal to satisfy my cravings. Starting with a spinach wrap, I added the sweet potato, kale & wild-rice patty protein base. Then I added buffalo frizzled onion, roma tomato, and alfalfa sprouts for veggies. I topped off my dream wrap with some shredded asiago cheese and Bareburger’s very own vegan “wham bam” sauce!

I’ll admit that the wrap appeared suspiciously petite when the server brought it to the table. This wrap, however, proved that looks can be deceiving! The wrap was filling enough, and beyond that it was tasty too!  I also got the chance to enjoy some crunchy onion rings along with my wrap, casually dipping them in some aioli and relish to my liking.

After more than a few refreshing sips and filling bites, my meal had come to its conclusion. While I was more than satisfied with my meal, I definitely left Bareburger excited for my next visit. Between the rest of the vegan options that I didn’t get the chance to try and the “wham bam” sauce, I’m sure I’ll be returning to Bareburger sometime soon! 

Make sure to take advantage of Bareburger’s $1 combo lunch special. This deal runs Monday – Friday until 3pm, and includes savory sides like french fries, sweet fries or a salad.

Written By Thomas Stewart, 04/29/2025

Author Bio: Thomas Stewart is an undergraduate student at Columbia University pursuing studies in creative writing and human rights in an effort to utilize media as a tool to vitalize our communities. When Thomas isn’t off overthinking in his journal, you can find him on campus volunteering for the local Housing Equity Project, organizing for the Black Student Organization, or playing a jam session at Columbia University Records club. Ultimately, his love for all things creative prevails throughout his life.


Connect with Thomas via Linkedin here!

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Just Around the Corner: Third Avenue Barber Club

Monday, April 28th, 2025

Aidann Gia Bacolodan, Pace University

The Campus Clipper invites students to step into a third space characterized by eclectic music—sung in a range of different languages—and the chatter from businessmen and schoolboys alike. Boris, the owner, wears black latex gloves as he works and tends to his clients. I brought my friend Pasha in, as he needed some refinement to his aesthetics before his fraternity formal. He described the state of his hair as somewhere in-between an overgrown mullet and a shag. Situated just around the corner from Baruch, Third Avenue Barber Club is known for its premium walk-in and membership services.

A look at Pasha’s hair before Boris stepped in.

Barber shops, in recent years, have changed. They were once length-specific, but in a changing world, barbers need to know how to cut longer hair. Boris keeps several mannequins to practice on in the back of his shop, in order to perfect his craft after taking a course on longer hair. He hopes to shift his business model towards offering clients membership, though he is refraining from closing off walk-ins, as he hopes to remain accessible. 

Boris provided an analysis of Pasha’s hair, woven throughout his stories and anecdotes. He noted where my friend’s split ends were as he spritzed water across his locks. 

“He was incredibly friendly and prioritized understanding exactly what I wanted from my haircut. When I was unsure about certain parts, he took the time to figure out and understand what would suit me best,” Pasha took note.

A smiling Pasha in the process of his haircut!

Boris, the manager, had to close his first barbershop after eight years, but reopened a shop recently in the Gramercy district of Manhattan. As I observed his skillful craft for the afternoon, it became evident that he was extremely knowledgeable in the world of hair.

”While barbers’ expertise lies in shorter cuts, Boris showed exemplary detail when cutting longer hair,” my friend commented. “He took great care in pinning my hair in such a way that he could cut in proper layers while keeping my scalp comfortable.”

Pasha started with an overgrown shag, which was refined to a neater mullet with layers and cleaner bangs. I could actually see his face after the precise haircut executed by the barber.

”In my experience, a lot of stylists/barbers ask for what style you want, do the entire haircut, and then ask if it’s to your liking when it’s too late to make major adjustments,” Pasha reflected. “Boris avoided this by checking in with my opinion at every major step, which not only ensured that I got the cut I wanted, but also made me a lot more comfortable in the barber’s chair.”

A close up of Pasha’s cleaned-up and healthy luscious locks and layers.

Third Avenue Barber Club is a quaint establishment for walk-in and reserved haircuts. With membership services offering unlimited haircuts and unlimited skin fades, the shop provides customers with a range of choice and selection when paying for their luxurious services. Thankfully, the business has partnered with the Campus Clipper for a student discount when clients present their valid student ID and coupon below.

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Where Are Women Allowed to Be Hot?

Thursday, April 10th, 2025

Like everyone else, I’ve been thinking about Bad Bunny’s Calvin Klein promotion for about three weeks. I am all for men in their tiny little undies looking all scrumptious for clothing brands, and it’s not just because the sight is easy on the eyes. Campaigns like Bad Bunny’s and Jeremy Allen White’s do more than just give the people what they want. When men take up sexualized spaces that have been historically imposed upon women, they highlight the gender discrepancy within partial-nudity reception. That’s what I’m also for.

Calvin Klein’s Instagram page has an audience of nearly 26 million. Bad Bunny appears in the most recent Calvin Klein campaign wearing just his Calvins, partially nude—something that’s been normalized for men in media but is often critiqued and policed when women do the same. 

Bad Bunny received overwhelmingly positive feedback from the internet for posing in his Calvins, with many comments thanking Calvin Klein for giving them such a godsend of photos (I don’t disagree here). Audiences reacted the same with Jeremy Allen White and many of the other men who have posed in their tighty whities, such as Jacob Elordi, Michael B. Jordan, and more.

Bad Bunny’s Calvin Klein ad, cropped to your displeasure.

What happens when we compare the reception to JENNIE’s Calvin Klein campaign, which featured comments from viewers such as “She has a nice body, but is it sexy?” What about Disha Patani’s? A follower wrote, “Nowadays, showing partial body is the next way to get popular and attention.”  Maya Jardon’s more conservative shapewear post didn’t miss getting hit either: “Why are you naked?” And then, for Lily Collins’ full-clothing campaign, a backhanded comment that almost had me hopeful, “This woman is sexy without showing anything,” plus a “this is not on brand.”

We can’t forget what happened to FKA twigs, either. In April 2023, Calvin Klein released an advertisement featuring FKA twigs wearing an unbuttoned denim shirt draped over her body, exposing parts of her butt and her breasts. It wasn’t too long after that the UK’s Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) received two complaints alleging that the ad objectified women. Consequently, the ASA banned the ad, stating that it “used nudity and centered on FKA twigs’ physical features rather than the clothing, to the extent that it presented her as a stereotypical sexual object.” ​

FKA twigs publicly contested this ruling, expressing disappointment and highlighting double standards in advertising. She noted that similar campaigns featuring male celebrities, such as Jeremy Allen White, did not face the same scrutiny. In her statement, she emphasized her pride in her body and the empowerment she felt during the shoot, questioning why hers was deemed inappropriate:

“I do not see the ‘stereotypical sexual object’ that they have labelled me. I see a beautiful strong woman of colour whose incredible body has overcome more pain than you can imagine,” she wrote a day after the ban. “In light of reviewing other campaigns, past and current, of this nature, I can’t help but feel there are some double standards.” It’s still lost on the committee, which eventually responded that although they were concerned their “rationale for banning the ad was substantially flawed,” the photos were still overtly sexual, and thus the ban remained.

One of the FKA twigs Calvin Klein ad photos that wasn’t removed

As Summer approaches and Amiee Lou Wood’s White Lotus Bikinis sell out online, I’ve come to wonder, where are women allowed to be hot? 

Campaigns like Bad Bunny’s indirectly highlight how algorithms and moderation policies on platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and others unevenly censor content based on gender and sexualization. Because of this, it seems women are not allowed to be hot in the Calvin Klein campaigns, which are quite literally designated spaces for partial nudity to be accepted. Online platforms as a whole tend to sexualize and censor women’s bodies far more than men’s, especially in similar attire. If we take modeling underwear out of the picture, there must be other spaces where women can be confident and attractive while not being policed for it, right?

Certainly not at the gym, where sports bras and biker shorts have become demonized by men who don’t know how to confront their own wandering eyes. “It’s practically narcissistic, if someone has a great six-pack and young girls have amazingly shaped bodies that they are showing off basically, they should cover up a little bit, you know,” said a gym owner on Irish radio whose comments have since gone viral and irritated plenty. Men can work out shirtless and semi-shirtless—for when those muscle tanks are cut up so much they show both the nips—but women can’t have a matching fit that highlights their physique? Are they just upset because men’s clothes aren’t as thematic and interesting as women’s? Do the guys just want cute matching sets, too? I’m trying to find an attainable solution. 

Clapbacks to the Irish man on TikTok

What about at work or school? Hilarious question. We’ve all seen Legally Blonde. Next.

Women also can’t be hot on the beach, where they’ll be reprimanded for wearing bikinis no matter what age they are. A council in Greater Sydney announced recently it would be banning G-string bikinis at its public pools without providing further details about how the rule will be policed. Last summer, actress Sydney Sweeney received criticism for posting photos in a long-sleeve one-piece wetsuit because it had a bikini bottom: “Didn’t she say she didn’t want to be sexualized anymore?” and “Who on earth made this mid famous?” In her op-ed, “Women – don’t get larger, don’t get older, don’t have fun, don’t dare to wear a bikini” for The Guardian, Barbara Ellen described the array of ridicule women get for showing skin: “Is she wearing a bikini? At her age? At that weight? Shouldn’t she be in a one-piece? Isn’t it all a bit undignified? On and on it goes.” 

Sydney Sweeney’s response to her haters

It definitely takes a toll on the mental wellness of women. What spaces are we left in to just be hot in peace? Where can we go where we won’t get bullied into wearing something we don’t like, only to still receive slander from the opposite end where we’re not hot enough? The scrutiny of women’s clothing and skin exposure is just a breeding ground for shame, fear, and self-consciousness. How often do we feel unsafe or objectified on a daily basis, not even during times of shorts and tanks, but when we’re fully clothed head to toe? How often have we dealt with anxiety and reduced self-worth because some man opened his mouth? This pressure to dress “modestly” or “appropriately” undermines self-expression and contributes to internalized misogyny, ruining our mental health and body confidence. It’s something we’ve experienced for years before and will continue to for years to come. 

It seems women are allowed to be hot anywhere that straight men are not present. If there are to be hetero-men present, there should be just one, and it should be your husband. If you’re single, and there are multiple men in the space, you’re still permitted to be hot, but in consequence, you will also have to be thirsty, immature, narcissistic, dumb, attention-seeking, and, above all, disreputable. And that’s just the way it goes for people with half a brain cell, apparently.  

I do think, however, that getting men some more matching workout sets could be onto something. Maybe a lavender 5-inch inseam short and crop tank? Can we get a Nike collab with Ryan Gosling on this? Asking for a friend.

Boston Students! Head on over to Chivo in Cambridge and get free chips and salsa with a coupon and student ID 🙂

Brenna Sheets is a graduate student in Emerson College’s Writing and Publishing M.A. program. Her hobbies include going on long walks, watching bad television, reading, and writing.

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Just Around the Corner: Kyuramen

Thursday, March 20th, 2025

Aidann Gia Bacolodan, Pace University

Finding high quality and reasonably priced Asian food in New York City can be a difficult task. Sometimes, it can be a hassle to venture all the way to Flushing. Other times, greasy Chinatown dishes are not the type of meal I crave. A freshly made, sit-down dinner with a friend is one of my ideal ways of winding down after a rough day of applying to scholarships and sending emails. I am always looking for new restaurants that serve Asian cuisine, and my good friend Marilisa came with me to try Kyuramen, located just around the corner from New York University. 

Pictured here is the bar seating available for customers.

Our hostess sat us in a wooden booth with a thin privacy curtain separating us from bustling waiters, chatty families, and clinking dishes. Marilisa and I both ordered Thai iced teas, notable for their sweet, spiced flavor and unique apricot color. A platter of takoyaki arrived swiftly, decorated with a drizzle of a deep-brown glaze and mounds of salty bonito flakes. These deep fried pancake balls were stuffed with piping hot octopus, harmoniously creating an appetizer that melts in the mouth. 

Marilisa and I ordered two iced Thai teas to drink.

“For the octopus balls, they’re sweet with a slight crunch,” Marilisa reviewed. “I thought they were really creamy and smooth inside!”

Five skewers, composed of various mouthwatering ingredients, enticed us the moment they were set on the table. Each has their own distinct flavor and texture, like the pork belly piece, which was juicy, greasy, and fatty. It was my favorite from the shareable dish, with the tender and moist beef skewer as a close second. Marilisa found the scallops to be delicate, though thoroughly enjoyed them, while the zucchini was soft, squeaky, and seasoned.

Our shareables set out in a fancy display.

A honeycomb-shaped ceramic dish, set on an oak platform, sat at the edge of our table. Each section was composed of different mini-appetizers, spanning from classic options, like shrimp tempura, to more obscure bites, like a spicy chashu salad ball. A chili garlic seasoning on the portion of edamame is a perfect snack in between the abundant, potent flavors of the other sides.

“I found the unagi eel to be very rich. The lobster and pork ball was crunchy and spicy inside. I liked the refreshing lobster topping,” Marilisa reflected.

She had ordered a rice burger for her entree, describing the teriyaki beef to be traditional and the slight saltiness in the rice to be pleasurable. I selected omurice, a Japanese dish made with a runny omelette placed over a bed of rice. The waitress sliced open the fried, yet runny egg and poured a curry mixture over my main course. It was a beautiful presentation, equivalent to the simple and delicious character behind the meal.

Our wide array of food to be consumed within a private wooden booth.

To tame our heightened senses from the saltiness and spice derived from the majority of the previous dishes, Marilisa and I selected three desserts: a matcha tiramisu, a lychee jelly pudding, and a slice of matcha crepe cake.

”The matcha tiramisu was creamy and smooth, with a heavier flavor of the custard over the matcha. The jelly had these really pretty edible flowers. It was super sweet, almost candy-like in flavor,” she observed. 

I personally loved the tiramisu more than any other, as I am not a fan of espresso. The dish was not overly moist or soaked in flavor, like many found at sit-down eateries and locales. 

“The matcha crepe cake had beautiful, textured, clean layers,” Marilisa said. “There was a smooth filling between layers with a strong, earthy matcha flavor.”

From top to bottom are the desserts we selected: the matcha tiramisu, a slice of matcha crepe cake, and the small bowl of lychee jelly.

The rich, matcha crepe cake paired well with the thick custard found in the tiramisu, as they balanced out one another’s flavors. The desserts were beautifully presented with their complementary colors of a pastel pink in the lychee jelly and the sage green elements evident in the two other dishes.

“Kyuramen has a very cozy environment and lots of options! A pretty unique spot. Lots of rich flavors and variety!” Marilisa concluded.

I found the Asian establishment to be an excellent choice for a pleasant, semi-formal dinner with friends or family. The food was impeccable, authentic, and quick, while the atmosphere varies depending on where individuals are seated. The main room holds a relaxed, talkative environment, while the private booths allow for more intimate conversations and focus on the food itself. My personal favorites were the curry omurice and the assorted honeycomb platter, two platters not commonly found at other restaurants. For students looking to try Kyuramen, Campus Clipper is offering a coupon for 10% off when presented with a valid student ID.

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