Latest Fourth Estate Articles

Madalyn Godfrey/ Fourth Estate

BY GABRIEL KING, CO-EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

After a breakout 2023-24 season that saw multiple records shattered, Mason women’s basketball will look to continue building under head coach Vanessa Blair-Lewis. The Patriots have improved every season under Blair-Lewis, including reaching the inaugural Women’s Basketball Invitation Tournament last year.

Per the Atlantic 10’s annual preseason poll, Mason is projected to finish third in the conference this year. If the A-10 is as strong as it was last year, a third-place finish could be enough to send the Patriots to their first ever NCAA Tournament. To do that, Mason will need to pick up marquee wins and avoid resume-damaging losses. Here are five games to monitor as the Patriots look to make more history:

1. Vs. No. 18 Maryland (in Annapolis, Md.) – Nov. 30, 3:30 p.m., ESPN+

The Patriots and Terrapins will face off for the third straight season, this time at a neutral site in Annapolis as part of the Navy Challenge. Last year, Mason held a lead in the third quarter before falling to Maryland in College Park. Even if the Patriots lose this game, another strong showing against one of women’s basketball’s power programs could be enough to boost their resume.

2. At Georgetown – Dec. 9, 7:00 p.m., FloSports

After their surprise run to the Big East championship game in March, the Hoyas have suddenly become a formidable opponent. While the Patriots will be likely favored in this game, they cannot overlook Georgetown. Grabbing a win against a power conference opponent on this quick trip to Washington could give the Patriots a marquee win in the non-conference.

3. At Richmond – Jan. 8, 6:00 p.m., ESPN+

While Mason defeated Richmond last season, the Spiders got the last laugh when they won the A-10 Tournament and clinched a spot in the NCAA Tournament. The defending champion Spiders are projected to repeat as champions but the Patriots are one of the top contenders to take the crown. A win in Richmond would be a great start to 2025 and give Mason an edge over one of their top competitors in the A-10.

4. At Saint Joseph’s – Feb. 23, 4:00 p.m., ESPNU

In one of their biggest conference games of the season, the Patriots will travel to Philadelphia to face Saint Joseph’s. The Hawks beat the Patriots at EagleBank Arena in February so Mason will be certainly looking to return the favor. Saint Joseph’s was picked to finish second in the A-10 so this game is bound to have seeding implications heading into March. Plus, the national spotlight will give both teams the media recognition they deserve.

5. Vs. Duquesne – Mar. 1, 3:00 p.m., ESPN+

Despite Duquesne being picked to finish in the middle of the pack in the A-10, this game has plenty of intrigue. The Dukes eliminated the Patriots from last year’s A-10 Tournament after a controversial call that prevented Mason from reaching the NCAA Tournament for the first time. With the game being the final game of the regular season, the Patriots will be looking to avenge their March heartbreak and enter the postseason with momentum.

Mason’s season kicked off against Johnson C. Smith on Nov. 4 at 2:00 p.m. at EagleBank Arena where the Patriots won 106-51.

Nawaal Nackerdien/ Fourth Estate

BY MARY DEMARCO, OPINION EDITOR

Over the past few weeks, purple pop-up tables occupied by women with matching purple shirts have appeared throughout campus during the height of the election season. 

These women are a part of a non-profit group called the League of Women Voters (LWV), a non-partisan organization consisting of more than one million American women who aim to educate and aid voters. 

For the 2024 election season, LWV aimed to register as many Mason students to vote as possible. From Wilkins plaza to random booths throughout campus, members of LWV have provided voting information and voter registration paperwork to students.

Founded in response to the 19th amendment, the league was created to inform women on the voting process and their rights as American citizens. While the right to vote is no longer questioned, LWV continues to identify populations that are underrepresented in casting their ballots.  

“One of the populations [of people who struggle to vote] is college students,” Arina van Breda, Fairfax area LWV Director of Voter Registration, said.  “Which is one of the reasons that I’ve been very active on campus at Mason.” 

Van Breda mentioned that undergrad college students struggle to make it to the polls due to the unclear guidelines on where and how to vote. 

“We know that most people going off to college are often going to be first time voters,” van Breda said. “[They] have a lot of decisions to make about voting; simple things like, do you vote using your parents address as your home address or do you vote using your campus address as your home address? If you’re going to use your parents address, how are you going to get to vote there if you’re living on campus?”

Mason students have proven to be proactive when it comes to voting. In the 2020 presidential election, Mason students had a 77.8% voting rate according to the National Study of Learning, Voting and Engagement.

However, this study does not account for Virginia general elections. Zach Lincoln, a student of Mason Schar School of Policy and Government, has observed that outside of presidential elections, his peers do not get involved in politics.

“Politics isn’t something you think about until right when we’re about to have a [presidential] election,” Lincoln said. 

Van Breda also emphasized that showing up to vote is not just for presidential elections but for local government elections as well. She says that voting for all levels of government is important for citizens to have their interests and needs reflected. 

“It’s the wrong approach to say ‘my vote doesn’t matter’ because… it can completely change the short-term course of Virginia politics,” van Breda said. “I always say to young people, the reason you feel the government doesn’t reflect your interests or doesn’t reflect your age cohort is because you’re not voting in the same percentage that older people are.”

Mason students have the opportunity to register to vote in Virginia using their current residence hall’s physical building address. Additionally, students may use same-day registration and vote at Merten Hall using a provisional ballot. The Merten Hall poll is opened until 7 p.m. and students may use their Mason ID.

For more information on voting as a Mason student, visit Mason Votes. 

Nylah Mitchell/Fourth Estate

BY NYLAH MITCHELL, STAFF WRITER

The 2024 presidential election outcome is right around the corner and voters are ready to decide who will hold the White House for the next four years.  As polls begin to close, voters will be tuning in to all news outlets to find out election results. Watching the results either with their friends, at a casual watch party, a formal gathering or solo at home. Whatever bucket you may fall under, if you haven’t decided on what to wear, here are some helpful tips and ideas. 

Formal

On election night, if you’re going to a dinner or a business-affair party, you may want to wear something a little more formal unless stated otherwise. To keep it simple and chic, try a mini black dress (or a midi-length) paired with black kitten heels, ballet flats or wedges. The outfit can be accessorized with dainty earrings to add in a pop of color. 

Not a fan of dresses? Try a bow-wrapped silk blouse loosely tucked into black trousers paired with pointed-toe heels or loafers. 

If wearing a dress or a blouse is not your style, perhaps an all-black suit is within your wheelhouse. I recommend a black dress shirt with the top buttons undone. 

Casual

What if the scene is a bit more relaxed and you don’t need to wear fancy clothes? A white t-shirt semi-tucked into jeans coupled with canvas sneakers or ballet flats is the way to go. To take it another step, add a denim jacket or a colorful cardigan. 

Or wear a baggy-knitted sweater with a white tee peeking through the neckline of the sweater with jeans and boots, Mary Jane flats or sneakers. You could also swap out the jeans for a mini skirt and colored (or black) tights for a fun twist. 

Color

Feeling patriotic? Go for blue jeans and a button-down shirt with a red, white or blue cardigan thrown over the shoulder. The button-down can be tucked in, with the top few buttons undone and rolled-up sleeves. I recommend cool sneakers like Adidas Sambas, Vejas, Gola’s or Dolce Vita’s.

For a more casual yet formal look, try blue jeans and a knitted American flag sweater with an Oxford shirt collar peeking through to give a more refined look. Don’t have a flag sweater? Any patriotic color sweater works fine and you can pair the outfit with any flat shoes. 

Candidate merch 

It’s election night! You’re feeling excited and hopeful for your candidate and want to show your support. Here’s what I recommend: wear your candidate pick’s slogan baseball cap and pair it with a long-sleeved tee and black trousers or jeans. Then finish off the look with trendy sneakers like Adidas Sambas, New Balance 550s or Nike Air Force Ones. 

Or better yet, you’re feeling more enthusiastic and prideful and want to go all out. I’d go for a graphic tee with your candidate’s slogan, imagery or motivational phrases and style it with black jeans. You can’t go wrong with your favorite sneakers and a few personal touches.

Impersonators

Still have Halloween on your mind? Thinking about dressing up again? Look no further than dressing as your favorite or least favorite presidential candidate. Go all out with a wig, a suit and maybe a good pair of Chuck Taylors, if that’s your vibe. 

Perhaps you dream of running for president and want to dress the part, I say do it. Go for a traditional suit and colored tie paired with either loafers or low heels. Also try a knee-length dress with a blazer on top and ballet flats or low heels. 

To know your Virginia polling site, visit the Department of Elections site. Haven’t registered yet? Virginia offers same-day voter registration. And if you are a Mason student living and voting on campus, visit Mason Votes or Department of Elections: College Student Info.

Photo Courtesy of Justus Johnson

BY CHRISTIAN SEGOVIA, ASSISTANT SPORTS EDITOR

Editor note: The use of the word “server” is referring to the practicing and playing of the game Counter-Strike.

Grayson ”dr1ver” Wood has been the Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CSGO) manager for Mason Esports since the fall of 2022. From always enjoying the competition, putting in long hours, becoming well-known in its community and having a love for the game, it was no surprise for Wood to take on the manager role for CSGO when the opportunity opened.

One of the people inspiring Wood to take on the opportunity was Connor “Conman” Southwick, the former manager of the CSGO team that bonded with Wood through hanging out to play CSGO and going out to eat food.

From the friendship between Wood and the former manager, Wood acknowledges it to be one of the biggest success factors for the team.

“You’re not going to play as good as you think in the server if people aren’t friends with each other outside the server,” Wood said. 

In the last two seasons, Wood would get the team together before games to play pool and have fun. This season, Wood contributed to breaking barriers within the team by buying dinner for his players. Wood says this brought the team together over a shared meal to get to know one another.

While team bonding is one of the biggest success factors for the team, it is also one of the challenges Wood faces.

“Everybody is their own different person, expecting five people who know nothing about each other to get along and play in and out of the server [is challenging],” Wood said. “Everyone has their goals and interests and getting all those five people to work together on the same server.”

Throughout Wood’s experience, he has had to remove several unruly players from the team mid-season who were negatively impacting the team or disrespectful to other players. Part of Wood’s job is keeping his players in line.

Photo Courtesy of Justus Johnson

One of Wood’s favorite memories of managing the CSGO team is making it to the National Association of Collegiate Esports (NACE) Finals in fall 2023. Despite not winning, the team had a good trip bonding over flying out to Idaho and having an entire weekend of CSGO, hanging out, playing on the Nintendo Switch and eating food.

Outside of managing the CSGO team, Wood works out at the gym and hosts his own server for friends and family, spending up to six hours a day in a computer’s terminal setting up and breaking down servers. 

Wood’s best advice as manager is taking the opportunity and always being willing to try something new.

“Luck is the meeting of preparedness and opportunity… do something you didn’t think you were going to do,” Wood said.

Nawaal Nackerdien/Fourth Estate

BY NAWAAL NACKERDIEN, NEWS EDITOR AND CHRISTIAN SEGOVIA, ASSISTANT SPORTS EDITOR

We understand how stressful the middle of the semester can be during this time of year. As we ease into the most difficult months of the year, a snack between breaks is much needed. We, at Fourth Estate, have your back. That’s why we decided to taste test and rate eight different flavors of Oreos so that you don’t have to.

Nawaal Nackerdien/Fourth Estate

Spooky Oreo

Our first Oreo is the Spooky Oreo. We grabbed it because of its orange-colored filling and various spooky designs on the cookies. Our excitement ended when we tasted it. It tasted the same as a normal Oreo. We were further dismayed to find out that it was just a rebrand of the original tried and true Oreo; therefore, we used this flavor as a control to refer back to during our testing.

Nawaal Nackerdien/Fourth Estate

Lemon Oreo

The expectations for this Oreo were both pretty high and pretty low. Nawaal was pretty excited since she loves lemon cookies. Christian thought it would just taste like a regular Golden Oreo, but sweeter. When opening the bag, it smelled like a standard Golden Oreo. During the tasting, it was sweet. The lemon taste came after the initial sweet taste but it was much more delightful than expected. It didn’t taste sour at all. However, it did have a bit of a weird aftertaste. Perfect for those looking for an Oreo that is on the calmer side but does everything right.

Overall Rating: 4/5

Nawaal Nackerdien/Fourth Estate

Coca-Cola Oreo

The expectations for the limited edition Coca-Cola Oreo were worrying. Mixing a soda with an Oreo doesn’t sound great. Upon opening the bag, Mady Godfrey, our copy editor, said that it smelled “like battery acid.” We all agreed that the smell of Coca-Cola was very powerful. During the taste test, the flavor of Coca-Cola wasn’t very apparent. It was very sweet, like all Oreos, but the titular soda was missing right before the end. But what made us give this Orea a high rating was the presence of popping candy within the cookie itself. As you ate it, the Oreo would proceed to pop in your mouth like an actual carbonated soda; however, due to an odd aftertaste and a lack of the signature Coca-Cola flavor, the overall rating is mediocre.

Overall Rating: 3/5

Nawaal Nackerdien/Fourth Estate

Java Chip Oreo 

The expectations for this Oreo were mixed. Neither of us are coffee drinkers. Nawaal, in particular, wasn’t keen on a java-flavored Oreo. When opening the bag, you get the strong smell of coffee like you’re inside a café or experience a morning where the kitchen smells like freshly brewed espresso. During the tasting, there were times when we could taste the chocolate chip and other times we couldn’t. Due to it being coffee, it was bitter. It was this Oreo that caused our two opinions to differentiate. Christian gave it a four out of five. This was his favorite out of all the Oreos. Nawaal absolutely hated it. She gave it a one out of five. “The bitterness is too much,” Nawaal said. We shook hands and met in the middle.

Overall Rating: 3/5

Nawaal Nackerdien/Fourth Estate

Tiramisu Oreo Thins

The Tiramisu Oreo Thins were the only flavor we could not find in the original form. Instead, we had to get the thins. The expectations for this Oreo were pretty high. Everyone was unsure of what it would taste like but we were looking forward to it. The smell of caramel was the first thing that we noticed when opening the bag. It was a sweetness that wasn’t as overbearing as the previous Oreos. During the tasting, the caramel of the Oreo stood out the most. It didn’t taste quite like caramel but that’s its closest comparison. Less filling meant less overwhelming sweetness. Overall, it was very enjoyable. 

Overall Rating: 3/5

Nawaal Nackerdien/Fourth Estate

Birthday Cake Oreo

Our expectations for this Oreo were that it would be either a hit or a huge miss. Christian was very excited for this Oreo. Nawaal was scared that it would be super sweet. It smelt of a birthday celebration. We also liked the bright and colorful filling. During tasting, we were expecting the feel of a birthday…and all we got was a standard Oreo with a little sweetness to it. It tasted closer to birthday cake ice cream than an actual vanilla birthday cake. 

Overall Rating: 2/5

Nawaal Nackerdien/Fourth Estate

Peanut Butter Oreo 

The expectations for this Oreo were…low. It’s peanut butter. We expected it to taste like it. When opening the bag, you get peanut butter. When tasting it, you get peanut butter. Our co-editor-in-chief, Viviana Smith, was excited to give it a try. As a peanut butter lover, she said that it tasted like two plain crackers with peanut butter in the middle, except with Oreos. Nawaal said it was likely due to how overpowering peanut butter is. 

“You can have peanut butter and banana in a smoothie because both of them overpower. If you have banana on its own, or peanut butter on its own in a, say, strawberry smoothie, you will taste the banana. You will taste the peanut butter. You’ll barely taste the strawberries,” Nawaal said. 

Christian said that it felt like a waste of money.

Overall Rating: 1/5

Nawaal Nackerdien/Fourth Estate

Dark Chocolate Oreo 

The expectations for this Oreo were low with the hopes that the chocolate would possibly melt on the tongue like a Kit Kat or Hershey Bar. The dark filling threw us off a bit. When opening the bag, it smelled like straight Oreo. During the tasting of the Oreo, all you could taste was the Oreo and no chocolate. It was bitter like the java chip Oreo with a slight espresso taste. We wanted more chocolate!

Overall Rating: 0/5

With that, our winner is the Lemon Oreos! Being the calmest flavor on the list, these cookies are unexpectedly the best of the bunch. We, at Fourth Estate, hope you enjoy the lemony taste between writing your essays and creating A-worthy PowerPoints. Don’t forget to take breaks in between studying for your tests and cuddle up as the temperature gets colder. That concludes our Oreo Test Testing. Stay tuned for more!

Mitchell Richtmyre/Fourth Estate

BY CHRISTIAN SEGOVIA, ASSISTANT SPORTS EDITOR

On Oct. 26, Mason men’s soccer defeated St. Bonaventure 4-1 to gain sole possession of first place in the Atlantic 10. Mason’s win puts them a game ahead of Duquesne heading into the final weekend of the regular season.

Mason is now one of two in the country with 12 wins. The other is Pittsburgh, as the Panthers are ranked third nationally and sit atop the Atlantic Coast Conference. 

In the first half, the Patriots and Bonnies created chances for their teams to score a goal, but both defenses denied those chances, ending the first half 0-0.

St. Bonaventure’s Kenzo Brito opened up the scoreline, 1-0 in the second half. In the 56th minute, Brito got the pass inside the box, kicking the ball to the top left corner of the goal.

Mason wasted no time to come back. In the 57th minute, Mason forward Martim Sereno cut inside the box from the right side field, dribbling past St. Bonaventure defenders. Sereno passed to midfielder Javier Montava, who kicked the ball into the bottom right corner of the net, making it 1-1.

In the 59th minute, Montava started an attack, passing the ball to Mason defender Jordi Navio Sanchez on the right side of the field. Sanchez passed to midfielder Nicholas Prioli, who passed the ball to Mason’s Luis Maestre inside the box. Maestre found Sanchez running inside the box and kicked the ball to the left side of the net, making it 2-1.

In the 63rd minute, Mason continued its flurry of goals, as Sereno found forward Marek Gonda in the middle of the field. Gonda passed it to forward Kelly Janssen, who was running down the left side field. Janssen kicked the ball outside the box into the bottom right corner of the net, making it 3-1.

Bonnies midfielder Gabriel Addo picked up a red card, after two yellows from fouling two Mason players. St. Bonaventure went down to 10 men on the field after the 63rd-minute ejection. 

Mason capitalized on the man-advantage. Javi Sanchez passed to James Eliuda out of a free kick. Eliuda, from Mason’s defending side, crossed the ball to Janssen, running down the left field. In the 65th minute, Janssen kicked the ball past Bonnies’ goalkeeper into the bottom right corner, making it 4-1.

Mason controlled the ball for 54% of the whole game, while the Bonnies controlled the ball for 46%. 

Mason shot the ball 16 times with 11 of those shots on goal, while the Bonnies shot the ball 14 times with four of those shots on goal.

The Patriots will return to action on Nov. 2 in Richmond against VCU. A win against the Rams would clinch the A-10 regular season championship for Mason.

Madalyn Godfrey/Fourth Estate

BY CHRISTIAN SEGOVIA, ASSISTANT SPORTS EDITOR

Editor’s Note: Players will be referred to by their gamer tags. Additionally, on Oct. 26, Mason Valorant won the MACS Championship and lost their LCQ match in a 2-0 series against the Western Kentucky Hilltoppers on Oct. 28.

On Oct. 16, Mason’s Valorant team qualified for Last Chance Qualifiers (LCQ) after winning against Converse Purple (CVU) in a 2-0 series. Mason won 13-5 on Sunset and 13-7 on Icebox.

The attacking side’s goal was to get the spike down onto any map sites while the defending side’s goal was preventing the spike from being planted on any of the sites. Agents are characters that the players pick to play in the game. The agents’ abilities are used for planting the spike, stopping the spike from being planted or taking down the opponents.

Mason won the first round but CVU put Mason at a disadvantage in the next round creating a 2 v. 5 opportunity. With Mason’s Maxvince and Coco working together, Maxvince would get four kills as Coco got one.

Mason’s Soji got three kills using Neon’s ultimate overdrive with a setup from Mason’s substitute Tekkh using Breach’s Fault line, concussing the enemy team. With the chance to break a 5-5 tie, Mason initiated a retake on Sunset’s A site by bringing the fight to CVU. 

After switching to the attacking side, Maxvince almost received an ace before Tekkh took the final kill. Mason would continue their dominant performance on the attack, taking the series 1-0.

To start Icebox, Soji gained three kills with a sheriff. In round eight, CVU tried to take the fight to Mason but Mason outshot CVU to win the round.

Mason’s Blaze clutched a 1 v. 3 through outsmarting CVU players by faking his Sova’s ultimate hunter fury, pretending to use his ultimate before putting it back.

With the chance to close out the series, CVU used Viper’s Pit on B site, causing health decay whenever the enemy team stepped in the pit. Additionally, CVU used Killjoy Ultimate Lockdown, causing players inside the circle to be unable to use abilities or weapons. Tekkh received an ace but CVU won the round as Mason was left with no time to defuse the spike.

To close out the series, Coco used Gekko Ultimate, Thrash. By using Thrash, it prevented the enemy team from using their abilities or weapons for six seconds. Coco detained two CVU players helping Mason retake B site and winning the series 2-0.

From Mason’s Valorant dominance in retaking sites, working together as a team using their agent abilities and playing to their style, the team earned third place in their division.

Madalyn Godfrey/Fourth Estate

BY GABRIEL KING, CO-EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

With the 2024-25 college basketball season tipping off on Nov. 4, there is hope that Mason men’s basketball can return to the NCAA Tournament for the first time since 2011. Under second-year head coach Tony Skinn, the Patriots are predicted to finish sixth in the Atlantic 10, per the conference’s annual preseason poll.

To ensure a return to the postseason, the Patriots will need to pick up resume-building wins in the non-conference and avoid falling back to the middle of the A-10 standings. Here are five games to watch that could determine the direction of Mason’s season:

1. At No. 18 Marquette – Nov. 8, 9:00 p.m., Peacock

As part of the Marquette Challenge, the Patriots will look to notch a signature victory in year two under Tony Skinn against the nationally-ranked Golden Eagles. Mason’s first big test of the season will reveal a lot about the team and the direction this season could take.

2. At No. 7 Duke – Dec. 17, 7:00 p.m., ACC Network

Mason will play national title contender Duke for the first time since 2006. While a win isn’t expected, a strong showing on a national stage could propel the Patriots to the top of the pack in the A-10. The Patriots and Blue Devils have only met once before, with Duke winning 69-53 in the 2006-07 season, the year after Mason made it to the Final Four.

3. At VCU – Feb. 22, TBA, CBS Sports Network

Before even thinking about postseason play, the Patriots have to prove they belong with the best of the A-10. A late February road test against preseason conference favorite VCU will present Mason with an opportunity to gain momentum heading into postseason play.

4. At Dayton – Jan. 15, 7:00 p.m., CBS Sports Network

In another tough road game for the Patriots, they will face the Flyers for the first time since their upset win in February. While Mason proved they could be Dayton last year, beating them again, this time on the road, could solidify them as a top team in the conference.

5. Vs. Saint Joseph’s – Feb. 15, 12:30 p.m., USA Network

In their biggest home game of the season, the Patriots will face the third-ranked team in the A-10, Saint Joseph’s. The Hawks boast a roster full of potential NBA talent, including Preseason All-Conference selection Erik Reynolds II. Saint Joseph’s ended Mason’s season in last year’s A-10 Tournament, so the Patriots will be looking for revenge on their home floor.

Mason’s season gets underway at home against North Carolina Central on Nov. 4 with tip-off set for 7:00 p.m.

Madalyn Godfrey/ Fourth Estate

BY MADALYN GODFREY, COPY EDITOR

The Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression (FIRE) and College Pulse released their 2025 College Free Speech Rankings with Mason ranked at 16th place in free speech. Eight spots down from their 2024 ranking.

For a fifth year in a row, FIRE and College Pulse surveyed 58,807 students enrolled in four-year degree programs from 257 colleges and universities across the United States “to help high school students and their parents identify which colleges promote and protect the free exchange of ideas.”

In their key findings, FIRE noted that Mason has “consistently performed well” since 2020 being above average in their overall score. An institution’s overall score is determined by “Comfort Expressing Ideas,” “Self-Censorship,” “Mean Tolerance,” “Disruptive Conduct,” “Administrative Support” and “Openness.” In the 2024 ranking, Mason scored 67.65 out of 100; whereas, this year scored 63.92.

Mason also obtained the “green light” in speech codes for the 2025 ranking. According to FIRE, “A ‘green light’ rating indicates that an institution maintains no policies that seriously threaten speech, although this rating does not indicate whether a college actively supports free expression.”

Out of 132 Mason student responses, collected by the survey between Jan. 25 through June 17, “67% of students say shouting down a speaker to prevent them from speaking on campus is at least rarely acceptable” with “49% of students say they have self-censored on campus at least once or twice a month.”

When asked to share a moment of inability to express opinions in the anonymous forum, one student from the class of 2024 said, “many of my fellow students have a different political and religious background than I do. I feel to express my spiritual side freely I would be made fun of and called a witch because most students don’t understand.”

Another student from the class of 2024 said, “if you share their liberal biases then you are safe, if not you suffer grades, suspension, cancellation, etc.”

FIRE determined the majority viewpoint of Mason to be liberal with approximately three liberal students for every one conservative student.

Along with ranking 16th in overall ranking for free speech, Mason also ranked 198th place for “Comfort Expressing Ideas,” 46th in “Tolerance for Speakers,” 59th in “Disruptive Conduct,” 25th in “Admin Support,” 190th in “Openness” and 247th in “Self Censorship.”

Based on national data in regards to recent controversial events over the past five years, the top issue identified to be the most difficult topic to have a conversation about on campus is the “Israeli/Palestinian conflict” with 55% students responding as so. Followed by “abortion” at 45%, “transgender rights” at 41% and “racial inequality” and “gun control” both at 36%.

Although Mason ranks as 16th, FIRE determined the University of Virginia to rank first in overall free speech with a score of 73.41, moving from sixth place in the 2024 ranking, and Harvard in last place for the second year in a row.

FIRE is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization with a mission that “defends and promotes the value of free speech for all Americans in our courtrooms, on our campuses, and in our culture.”

Sam Douglas/ Fourth Estate

BY SAM DOUGLAS, STAFF WRITER

Virginia first lady Suzanne Youngkin held a talk at Mason on Thursday, Oct. 17 to raise awareness about the risks of fentanyl. Student athletes and athletic staff were present as Youngkin, Virginia Secretary of Health and Human Resources Janet Kelly and Mason Director of Intercollegiate Athletics Marvin Lewis addressed the dangers of the fatal drug.

Fentanyl is an opioid used by doctors as an extreme pain reliever; however, the drug is also illegally sold on the street in the form of liquid and powder, according to the CDC.

 Youngkin stressed the importance of staying away from fentanyl as part of her “It Only Takes One” campaign. The campaign launched in January and expanded recently in August with Youngkin traveling to schools, churches and recovery centers to raise awareness about fentanyl.

Sam Douglas/ Fourth Estate

“As a mother of four young adults, I can’t imagine the pain of losing a child to something that could have been prevented,” Youngkin said. “This crisis is personal to me because it affects every community across Virginia, from our cities to our rural areas. I believe we can prevent these tragedies through awareness, education and conversation.” 

According to the first lady’s website, an average of five Virginians die each day due to fentanyl poisoning. 

Also present at the event were Tom and Delaine Mazich, whose son Grey passed away due to an accidental fentanyl overdose in 2020 while at college. They shared their story with the student athletes in attendance, detailing how their son took a pill to help fall asleep unaware that it was laced with fentanyl. They urged the student athletes to use their role to help spread awareness of the dangerous drug.

Sam Douglas/ Fourth Estate

“You have the opportunity to impact so many people because they look up to you,” the Mazichs said to members of Mason’s women’s lacrosse, men’s soccer and rowing teams.

Fentanyl awareness and prevention efforts have been present throughout Gov. Glenn Youngkin’s administration. Besides the “It Only Takes One” campaign, Virginia Attorney General Jason Miyares also has a campaign focused on fentanyl called “One Pill Can Kill.” 

In May 2023, Gov. Youngkin issued Executive Order 26 which focused on combating the rise of fentanyl. Gov. Youngkin also announced that Operation Free Virginia had seized 17,000 pounds of illegal drugs and 50 pounds of fentanyl during a 30-day operation in early 2024.

“Our administration is fully committed to addressing the fentanyl crisis through bipartisan collaboration…this is an issue that transcends politics, and together, we’re raising awareness, educating communities and working toward saving lives across Virginia and beyond,” first lady Youngkin said.

Nawaal Nackerdien/ Fourth Estate

BY EMMA SCHAIBLE, STAFF WRITER

On Oct. 23 in the JC Atrium, seven student organizations came together to host the 2024 Election Forum. The forum presented the Democratic and Republican party perspectives on six policy and social topics in addition to questions submitted by spectators. 

The forum was presented by Mason’s Student Government and Bridge at Mason, a non-partisan political organization seeking to create open conversations and communications, according to their Instagram page. A panel of students from both organizations moderated the debate between the Democrats at Mason and College Republicans at GMU. 

Political director Olivia Nealon and Director of Communications John Dressel represented Democrats at Mason while President Ali Motemedi and Event Coordinator Blake Reed represented College Republicans at GMU.

“This is pretty much a GMU tradition,” said Dressel in an interview with Fourth Estate before the debate. While the debate is an annual event, this year has seen a turnout of “300+ audience members!” according to Bridge at Mason’s Instagram caption. 

Kaylee Fernandez, the Chair of Government and Community Relations for Mason’s Student government, was the organizer for the debate. 

“The purpose of today’s event is to just provide a space for peers to share with their fellow peers their perspectives…we feel that’s really important to create these spaces,” Fernandez said. 

Weeks before the debate, student government sat down with both Democrats at Mason and College Republicans at GMU to discuss topics and debate structure. The five overarching topics included economics, climate, abortion, immigration and democracy. 

From these topics, moderators asked questions on how each party would resolve issues that were significant to the student body, such as student debt relief, state regulated abortion-rights and the role of diversity, equity and inclusion in state-sponsored education. 

Emma Schaible/ Fourth Estate

Freshman Neil Boppuri shared his opinions on the debate during an intermission, stating, “I think the debate was very mediocre at best.” He went on to criticize Democrats at Mason for “coming out swinging,” and College Republicans at GMU for their speaking style.

“I think the thing is, while in a debate setting, that makes sense, [but] this is meant for an audience, and it’s meant to convince people,” Boppuri said. 

In their closing statements, each side invited anyone interested to attend their meetings. Democrats at Mason meet every Monday at 7:30pm in Horizon Hall room 1007. College Republicans at GMU meet every Wednesday at 8:30pm in Johnson Center meeting room D. 

Despite their differences throughout the night, each side was able to agree on two topics: pancakes are better than waffles and it is essential to vote. 

The deadline for registering to vote has passed, but students who live on campus can head to Merten Hall on Nov. 5 for same day registration. 

To learn more about ways to get involved with the upcoming election, visit masonvotes.gmu.edu for voter guides and information on becoming a registered voter.

Viviana Smith/Fourth Estate

BY VIVIANA SMITH, CO-EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Entering a new environment can be a difficult task. Without a strong foundation to build from, you’re bound to have many questions about all that is “new” — new faces, new opportunities and most importantly, a new you.

When we try to figure out the “new” by ourselves, we often make mistakes. However, with the right guidance, it can become easier to face unfamiliar challenges head on with confidence. 

As a Mason senior, I’m reaching out to the largest incoming freshman class with top 5 “need to know” tips to make the most out of your college experience. 

1. Find a buddy in each class

Throughout my time at Mason, I constantly heard the complaint from other students that making friends on campus was too difficult. Many students on this campus are commuter students, which explains why so many people make a beeline to the nearest parking lot right after class ends. Due to this, it can be hard to find the time to connect with peers. 

My advice is to get close with at least one person in each class. You may not become best friends with all of these people but it may help fulfill that social need for the rest of the semester. 

Additionally, if you reach out to those in your class, you will have another contact besides the professor to assist you with assignments. No more wondering if you’re the only one who doesn’t understand the homework… chances are, they don’t know either. At least you won’t be alone. 

Hopefully, beautiful friendships can blossom from simply reaching out to those around you and they may even last  throughout college and beyond!

2. Find a mentor

Just as I wish to advise readers, there is someone who would love to advise you personally. Reaching out to those around you, especially those who are wiser, can help guide you through your toughest questions. 

Many professors, advisors, faculty members, student leaders and even other classmates can provide resources of knowledge in more than just academics. 

Finding a mentor can be highly beneficial to your professional and personal development. Speaking with your professor that has experience in a career field you are interested in can help you navigate which steps you need to take to pursue that same career or at least one that is similar. 

If you become an intern for a job you’ve always dreamed of but aren’t sure if it’s for you anymore, don’t be afraid to ask questions to your seasoned co-workers who can give you further insight. 

Finding someone who can guide you through life’s many challenges can help curb the stress that uncertainty causes. Some situations are harder to go through alone so try not to avoid connection with those who may be a key to understanding your true potential.

3. Figure out your academic routine

While this seems like an obvious one, it’s usually forgotten by week two and regains importance 12 hours before your first midterm.

Getting into the habit of studying and completing all assignments by 11:59 p.m. is rarely an easy task; however, it’s better to establish a routine sooner rather than later.

To avoid a mountain of work to catch up on, set a designated time every day that adheres to your schedule where you can dedicate your full attention to your academic work. During this time, use special study techniques such as the Pomodoro technique to try to eliminate distractions. 

Couple this with a scheduled “Do Not Disturb” feature on your smart devices and you’ll allow yourself organized time to get all your academic work taken care of. 

4. Set aside some “you time”

What’s most important about the previous tip is that study time remains within its allotted time and doesn’t carry over into well-deserved “you time.” 

College is stressful. On top of the class work, extracurriculars and other obligations, we often get distracted by the bulk of our busy schedules that we miss the pockets of time we can use for ourselves. 

If you are able, set aside time that is dedicated to the activities you love. Even if it’s only for 10 to 15 minutes. Allow yourself a moment to catch up on a few pages of your favorite book or comic, a short YouTube video or to take a brisk walk while enjoying nature. 

While taking time for yourself, it’s easy to feel “guilty” for not using time to be productive; however, a car with an empty gas tank can’t make it to the gas station– remember to replenish your own “tank” by taking care of your own well-being. 

5. Get involved… reasonably. 

As a bright-eyed freshman, there’s probably many activities, groups and events that have caught your eye. With student groups such as Student Government, volunteer organizations, Student Media and many more, there are plenty of options on campus that expand your horizons professionally and assist you in building long-lasting communities for the rest of your time in college.

However, beware of your own ambitious nature. While you don’t want to lose that spark for growth and learning, you don’t want to over rely on it either. Though you may want to join several clubs, it’s best to start slow with one or two. As you join these clubs, get a deeper understanding of how the club works, what kind of activities usually take place and how much of your time is needed to participate. 

If all of these factors work with your schedule, then pursue that opportunity. If making the commitment seems unrealistic, don’t be afraid to decline or tell your club members that you need a break. 

Allow yourself grace with hard decisions such as leaving a club  or choosing one passion over the other, as you can only be in so many places at once. Try not to spread yourself thin– a jack of all trades is a master of none. 

There is not a right or wrong way to get through college. Everyone’s journey looks different, even if you are studying the same major. Life throws many curveballs and your path can change in an instant. All you can do is try to implement structure to the part of college that you can control, seek a helpful community and prioritize your mental and physical well-being. 

I hope these tips are valuable to many of you and that the next few years of your college experience are your best. 

Fourth Estate

BY VIVIANA SMITH, CO-EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

On Oct. 22, Mason student leaders, alongside the student body representatives of nine public universities throughout the Commonwealth of Virginia, signed and sent a letter to Gov. Glenn Youngkin regarding “the longevity of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion [DEI] programs at our public institutions.” According to the letter, the 10 student leaders represent a collective of 180,000 students across the Commonwealth. 

The letter follows developing conversations regarding DEI in higher education and policies enacted by Youngkin, including Executive Order 1, which stops the use of “inherently divisive concepts” in K-12 public schools. 

According to Secretary of Public Relations for the Cuesta-McAulay Administration Jackson McAfee, the letter aims to express the necessity of DEI programs within higher education and the importance of having students’ voices in conversations surrounding their curriculum. 

“Despite divisive rhetoric about DEI, students from Fairfax to Charlottesville, from Harrisonburg to Richmond, and from Norfolk to Blacksburg, students stand united in their support for these programs,” McAfee said. “This letter represents a collective voice of the student communities of major Virginia Public Universities…a collective voice that believes state education policy can not be adequately developed without the input and consideration of student experiences.” 

The coalition, kick-started by Student Body President Maria Cuesta, Secretary of Government & Community Relations for the Cuesta-McAulay Administration Liam Keene and McAfee, is comprised of student leaders from James Madison University, Longwood University, University of Mary Washington, Virginia Tech University, Virginia Commonwealth University, University of Virginia, Norfolk State University, College of William & Mary and Christopher Newport University.

“Each student body president’s motivations for signing are unique,” McAfee said. “This coalition gave many of us the chance to hear from other student communities and form a mutual understanding that unity amongst our universities was the way we get heard.”

The coalition was sparked by growing concerns for the future of DEI, including the rejection of various programs suggested by Virginia universities. “Just Societies and VCU had racial literacy courses. VCU’s Board voted to reject this curriculum. Mason’s Board halted instituting those courses despite students and faculty supporting it using rhetoric about completely removing DEI principles from classrooms ‘root to branch’.”

During a BOV session in Spring 2024, people in the gallery, including students, faculty and staff expressed their defense of the maintenance of DEI within Mason’s curriculum, while multiple visitors disagreed, advocating for its removal. 

In a 2023 report by The Heritage Foundation, DEI staff are claimed to be “wasteful, associated with worse campus climates, and are found at universities that promote radical ideologies.” In September 2023, President Gregory Washington responded by stating the report was “problematic” and contained inaccurate information. “Unfortunately this report – sloppy, methodologically questionable, and simply inaccurate as it is – not only falls short of something we can take seriously, it does damage to our capacity to have such a serious conversation…This university deserves better.”

McAfee emphasized that the intention of the letter is not to discuss morals but rather to open discussion between government officials and the collective student body of multiple public universities regarding the future of DEI.

 “This is a request for a reorientation,” McAfee said. “If we want to get back to placing student’s well-being and academic success at the center of education policy discussions, students have got to be there and they’ve got to have an audience willing to listen.”

“We know that for many, these programs are a large part of their everyday student experience…The benefits of DEI offices are clear and the impact they have on us every day is real, and politically appointed officials do not get to make that any less of a fact,” McAfee said. “We hope that the governor is enlightened from this collective effort and will meet with us to discuss our student experiences and center those in his education policy.”

Nylah Mitchell/ Fourth Estate

BY NYLAH MITCHELL, STAFF WRITER

Early in the fall 2024 semester, The City of Fairfax Regional Library and Mason University Libraries co-hosted a screening of the film “If Beale Street Could Talk” (2018), followed by a Q&A discussion with a guest panel moderated by Adult Services Outreach Coordinator William Osborne. The panelists were Mason Professor Helon Habila, Mason film student Erika Timmons and Mason civil engineering student Shane Stevenson.  

The screening was part of Fairfax County Public Library’s annual event series, All Fairfax Reads. This year’s event focused on civil rights activist and world-renowned writer James Baldwin. 

The film, directed by Barry Jenkins, is a screenplay adaptation of Baldwin’s 1974 novel, “If Beale Street Could Talk.” The novel and film examines a young Black couple, Tish and Fonny, in Harlem, New York City. Their relationship is tested when Fonny is falsely arrested for allegedly sexually assaulting a woman. Jenkins and Baldwin delve into how Black Americans incarcerated within the criminal justice system face unprecedented levels of discrimination and racism. 

Jenkins dramatizes the film from Tish’s point of view as she tells the story of Fonny and his end road in prison. The cinematography and the mid-century jazz score romanticize the life shared between Tish and Fonny, disrupted when a revenge-harboring street cop arrests Fonny for a crime he didn’t commit. The film uncovers the never-ending cycle of over-policing in Black neighborhoods, leading to mass incarceration and delayed justice within the system. 

To the panelists, it’s a story that still resonates today. 

“A lot of these questions still go unanswered so our solution for a lot of these things still hold so much trauma that’s being unpacked,” Timmons said. 

“It’s a love story. For me, that’s one of the things that will never age,” Habila said. “The story of young love in a harsh world is always going to be relevant because we understand it.”

The discussion covered another theme shown throughout the film: the injustice of the prison-industrial complex, specifically its treatment of Black Americans. The prison-industrial complex refers to the relation between corporations and criminal institutions that privatize prisons for profit and political influence. 

What does the film and James Baldwin himself have to say about [the prison industrial complex]? 

Habila: James Baldwin is always on point in his books and he touches the pulse of what’s important in the community… Whether it’s prison, it’s gay love and all these things. He’s never afraid of speaking up.

Stevenson: I don’t think that [Baldwin] feels like there’s anything in place for us. For even just people like us to really change what’s set in place in the system. In the prison-industrial complex, it’s not so much that ‘it’s just taking people and it’s not going to change,’ it’s also saying that in this change, in this stagnation of the rules, it is still drilling deep in these communities and effectively working hard against it.

Does the romanticization of the cinematography in the film still drive home Baldwin’s point on being Black in America? 

Habila: I think it does. Love and romance are metaphors here used to represent innocence and beauty and fragility and also resilience. The beautiful cinematography and the concept of artistic imagination and dreaming are all used to show the need for dreaming of a better tomorrow, at least with justice and equality.

Timmons: As much as I may respect and find this cinematic world fluid and beautiful, it fails at showing the voyeur the same world created by Baldwin in the novel, which is more in tune with the struggles of Black people as we face down the systemic caste and racist police and judicial systems in this country.

What are the biggest things viewers of If Beale Street Could Talk can take away with them?

Habila: The carceral system is as virulent as ever, racism is alive and thriving, police injustice is also doing quite well. But at the heart of it, ‘If Beale Street Could Talk; is a love story, albeit love in a very challenging milieu, that is a positive.

Timmons: Above all the concepts and harsh reality to be observed in this film, I hope that people to breathe in the love story that leads this story. Two young lovers forced to fight a society poised to harm them at every turn, determined to blossom despite the struggles they are forced to face. That love, above all other emotions, is the only one that can save society.

Learn more about the upcoming All Fairfax Reads events here. 

Photo Courtesy of Won Jun Choi

BY PHILLIP KIM, STAFF WRITER

Editor’s note: This interview was initially conducted in spring 2024.  

Junior Won Jun Choi was in the first grade of elementary school when his family immigrated from South Korea to the United States. For years, he struggled with language, cultural barriers and racism. Offhand derogatory remarks were not uncommon.

“My high school did not have that many Asian students,” Choi said. “We had 1,300 students and only maybe 10 of them were Asians. When you grow up in that sort of environment, you sort of lose your identity. You are not proud of who you are. You are not unapologetically you.”

That changed when Choi enrolled at Mason as a computer science major, around the time the pandemic broke out. During lockdown, he studied Korean history and culture, learning to embrace both sides of himself.

Choi soon joined Mason’s Korean International Students Association (KISA), and has been the president since fall 2023. KISA’s mission is to provide information about Korean culture to all students who are interested and to connect Korean students on campus to embrace Korean culture. He had never held a leadership position before, but he is passionate about helping other Korean students adjust to new life in America.

“This semester, we were able to serve more people, give them job opportunities that are good for them and connect them with Korean students within the Washington, Maryland and Virginia area right here,” Choi said. “Every time we coordinate with the [Korean] embassy to help Korean students get jobs or just host a networking event, that’s when I’m the most proud of myself and the group.”

Organizing events is not an easy task, according to Choi. First, KISA leadership determines who the event is for. Then, it must figure out the date and time that most target individuals would be free by. Finally, the organization must contact said students to invite them using various means, ranging from direct messaging via social media to handing out pamphlets. Choi shared that nothing beats the rewarding catharsis of moments when events are successfully held.

Growing up as a Korean American in Annandale, Va. was a challenge for young Choi. Now, he chooses to use his experience to help others at Mason going through what he once did.

“I can equally think I’m a Korean and I’m an American,” Choi said. “My ultimate goal is to provide a bridge between Korean Americans and Koreans, for them to understand each other more and make connections with each other in the area.”

Saahiti Chamala/ Fourth Estate

BY SAAHITI CHAMALA, CULTURE EDITOR

My name is Saahiti Kiran Chamala, a sophomore majoring in Finance on a pre-Law track, and I’m thrilled to be the Culture Editor for Fourth Estate this semester! 

When I first walked into the student media office, I was just looking for something fun to keep me busy—honestly, I was tired of gatekeeping all the amazing, affordable food spots I’d been hitting up. I pitched a food series for the Culture Section and now here I am with my very own food series on the Fourth Estate website and, somehow, the Culture Editor gig. Life comes at you fast, right?

I couldn’t be more excited. Being part of Fourth Estate has taught me what it really takes to be a journalist—how to bring a little “flavor” to a story (pun fully intended), edit like a pro and work with an awesome, tight-knit team that’s passionate about making things happen. I’ve learned a lot and I’m thrilled for what’s ahead.

With the biggest freshman class in Mason history rolling in, campus is about to be buzzing with activity. It’s the perfect time to dive into all the unique stories that need to be told. We’ve got an incredible team of editors. Together, we’re committed to bringing you stories that matter while keeping things fun and fresh.

So what’s the Culture Section all about? It’s about people, experiences and all the little things that make life at Mason interesting. Whether it’s spotlighting student clubs, covering on-campus events or exploring the hidden gems around the DMV area, we’re here to tell the stories that connect us all. Honestly, the Culture Section is only limited by your imagination. If you’ve got a passion—whether it’s food (like me), fashion or something different—let’s get it in print!

Got a story idea? Or just want to chat about all things culture? Feel free to contact me at the email provided below. I’m here to help you brainstorm, guide your creative process and share a few laughs along the way.

One last thing—if you’ve been thinking about joining the Fourth Estate, now’s your chance! Culture is the perfect place to start writing, no matter your major or experience level. Trust me, you won’t regret it.

Let’s make this semester one to remember!

Saahiti Kiran Chamala, ‘27

Your friendly neighborhood Culture Editor

schamala@gmu.edu

Viviana Smith/Fourth Estate

BY VIVIANA SMITH, CO-EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Did you know that Mason students, staff, faculty and retirees are eligible for special discounts at the EagleBank Arena? With a valid Mason ID, up to four tickets can be purchased at a discounted rate. For Mason sports games, tickets are free for students through Mason 360. 

For a full list of home games, visit the 2024-25 schedule on Mason Athletics’ website. 

If you are looking for entertainment on campus, there are many events hosted at EagleBank Arena the Mason Community can enjoy. From now until the end of the fall 2024 semester, here is a lineup of upcoming events. 

for King + Country: Unsung Hero Tour 2024– Oct. 27

This Christian pop duo comes to Fairfax, Va. on their Unsung Hero Tour featuring music from their “UNSUNG HERO Inspired By” soundtrack, according to EagleBank’s webpage. 

According to the official for King + Country website, the GRAMMY-award winning duo gained inspiration from other country, pop and gospel artists such as Kirk Franklin, Dolly Parton, Tori Kelly and more. 

The event starts at 7 p.m., with doors opening at 5:30 p.m.

Don Toliver: Psycho Tour– Nov. 8

“After Party” artist Don Toliver is bringing his newest album, “Hardstone Psycho,” on tour. According to the event details, the Psycho Tour is his “biggest North American headlining tour to date.”

American rapper and singer-songwriter Monaleo will be opening for Toliver, with special guest Teezo Touchdown making an appearance. 

The concert is set to start at 8 p.m. with doors opening at 7 p.m.

Jhayco: Vida Rockstar Tour– Nov. 17

Puerto Rican singer-songwriter Jhayco will be coming to EagleBank Arena during his Vida Rockstar Tour. 

Originally set to perform March 6, the concert was postponed to Nov. 17. According to event details, those who previously purchased a ticket will have their purchases honored for the new date. Tickets are still available and on sale. 

The concert is set to begin at 8 p.m. with doors opening one hour prior. 

Pentatonix: Hallelujah! It’s A Christmas Tour– Nov. 21

Referred to as their “holiday tradition,” the Acapella pop group Pentatonix is back with their home with one of their biggest holiday tours, according to the event details. Sing along to holiday classics with this legendary group. 

The event is set to start at 7 p.m. with doors opening at 6 p.m.

Blessd and Ryan Castro: !Ay Bendito Ghetto¡ Tour– Nov. 22

Colombian performers Blessd and Ryan Castro come together on stage for their U.S. !Ay Bendito Ghetto¡ Tour. The pair will stop by Fairfax during their 16-date tour in late November. 

Doors open at 7 p.m. with a showtime of 8:30 p.m.

R&B Vibe Tour– Dec. 6

Got a thing for R&B music? The R&B Vibe Tour comes to Fairfax in early December, with appearances by Tyrese, Monica, 112, Dru Hill and Next. 

The event starts at 7 p.m., with doors opening an hour prior. 

El Alfa: El Mejor Del Planeta– Dec. 8

Dominican rapper El Alfa ends the semester off hot with his El Mejor Del Planeta U.S. tour. With Fairfax as his last stop in his 16-date tour, folks can catch “El Jefe” at EagleBank Arena at 8 p.m., with doors opening at 7 p.m. 

Mitchell Richtmyre/Fourth Estate

BY KEVIN BINAJ, SPORTS EDITOR

Mason men’s soccer team has been a force to be reckoned with in the 2024 season. With a 10-3 overall record, including a 4-1 mark in conference play, the team displays exceptional consistency on both sides of the pitch. 

This standout season has seen the team balance both conference and non-conference success, building momentum heading into crucial matches. 

Whether at home or away, the Patriots have been formidable. Boasting a 6-1 home record, the team has fortified George Mason Stadium, letting it be known that a win won’t be easy for visitors. The team’s first two losses this season came on the road against Old Dominion in a narrow 1-0 defeat and a 2-1 loss at home to Duquesne, which saw the visitors score a 90th-minute goal against the run of play. The third loss came at No. 6 Maryland, as the Patriots fell 2-0.

The Patriots have been clinical in front of the goal, averaging 1.92 goals per game while holding their opponents to just over a single goal per match. With 25 goals scored across 13 matches, the Patriot frontline continues to show no signs of slowing down. The team’s shot accuracy has been impressive with 37% of their shots being on target. In contrast, their opponents have only managed 15 goals from 156 shots, reflecting Mason’s solid defense.

Marek Gonda has led Mason throughout the season, with seven goals and two assists. Gonda has been clinical in front of the goal, showcasing high-level composure and attacking expertise. 

Quentin Clain has also contributed significantly with five goals and three assists, while James Eliuda displayed his playmaking ability serving 4 assists. 

On the defensive side, goalkeeper Jaume Salvado’s performance stands out. Playing in 12 matches, Salvado has kept his opponents at bay with a 1.16 goals against average and a save percentage of nearly 70%. His leadership at the back resulted in four clean sheets for the team. 

With a strong core of players performing at a high level, Mason men’s soccer team is poised for a thrilling conclusion to the season. As they aim to continue their high level of play and maintain their dominant form in conference play, the Patriots hope for a deep postseason run. If their balance between scoring efficiency and defensive solidity continues, the team will be a tough challenge for any opponent in the upcoming matches.

The Patriots’ remarkable journey in the current season showcases not only their individual talent but their collective teamwork and determination, making this season one of the best in recent years for Mason men’s soccer. The Patriots return to action on Oct. 19 with a conference match in Philadelphia against Saint Joseph’s.

Emma Schaible/Fourth Estate

BY EMMA SCHAIBLE, STAFF WRITER

On Oct. 10, 40 new Mason Student Government senators met for the first time in the Johnson Center meeting room G. With the newest student elections, the 45th Student Senate added 20 new student advocates. 

SG expressed its excitement about the progress made with the new class and how they can add to the student body’s Mason experience. “Senators, bring your innovative ideas and unique perspectives, and let’s get to work,” writes the official SG Instagram account in their caption. 

“Each student election presents itself with a new opportunity to learn from the experiences of the incoming first-year classes,” Jackson McAfee said, the Secretary of Public Relations for the Cuesta-McAulay Administration and greater student government organization.

Each senator went through a required application process including mandatory meetings and campaigning over the month of September. Elections, held on Mason360, officially closed on Oct. 4. 

Speaker of the Student Senate senior C. Scott Tatum welcomed every new senator with a smile and encouraging words. After the oath of office, he summarized their role as senators as “putting others’ needs at the top of your mind… we are here to serve the students.” 

The senate agenda included a multitude of programs, including more outreach through Registered Student Organizations on campus and with individual students. Their intentions were to work more with the interests of every individual senator and ensure that a wide range of campus organizations are represented in student government. 

Emma Schaible/Fourth Estate

The student government is involved in every aspect of student life, from parking services to students’ rights. Topics such as the upcoming general elections and ways on how to better the housing and dining experience have become focuses for SG. These initiatives are deployed through their committees, in which each Senator is required to sit on two. 

All meetings are open to the student body at Mason, announced on their Instagram stories, held at 4:30 p.m. on Thursdays in Merten Hall. 

“We are equally excited to welcome these new voices to our organizations and learn from their experiences as long-term Mason students,” McAfee said.

Madalyn Godfrey/ Fourth Estate

BY ALEXANDRA HENRIQUES, STAFF WRITER

During the 2024 spring semester, Mason students began seeing flyers at campus bus stops attempting to gauge their interest in the U-Pass Initiative. This initiative is a program by the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) granting students unlimited rides throughout Northern Virginia, Washington, D.C. and southern Maryland. With U-Pass, travel on Metrorail and Metrobus would only cost a dollar per day. 

Of 28,000 Mason undergraduate students, only 5,858 lived on campus during the 2023-24 academic year. With 21% of the undergraduate population on campus, the remaining 79% were commuters. 

Director of Parking and Transportation at Mason Josh Cantor said that the student support for the initiative is split. 

“The number one reason we haven’t done [U-Pass] is it’s incredibly expensive for the 

University,” Cantor said. ”The way the U-Pass system works is WMATA charges the institution a dollar a day for every student the school has, not every student who uses it. So we have 28,000 full-time students at Mason…that would be $28,000 a day. This one program would be more than our entire transportation budget.”

With no funding for the initiative, a fee would have to be added to student tuition to cover U-Pass for all full-time Mason students. This fee could range anywhere from $200 to $350 annually. American University enacted the U-Pass program in 2016, though it came with a $250 student fee. However, Cantor said that they have easier access to a metro station, whereas the nearest metro station, Vienna/Fairfax-GMU, is 4 miles from Mason’s Fairfax campus. 

Cantor said that only 20% of commuter students live in areas with direct metro access, which leaves most students paying for a program that would not benefit their daily transportation needs.

Georgetown University’s pilot program allowed interested students to register for the initiative to receive the benefits of U-Pass. If a similar model is followed, an enrollment-based U-Pass program could curb expenses for both Mason and its students.

A U-Pass program presents another option for students commuting between the Fairfax and Arlington campuses. According to Cantor, a new building is planned to open on the Arlington campus within a year that could increase the number of students traveling between campuses. Cantor acknowledged that when having 50 people traveling at once, trains are more efficient than buses. Once constructed, Mason will assess whether the U-Pass system would be preferred for transportation. 

WMATA has encountered economic challenges over the past few years. This includes a projected $750 million budget deficit for Fiscal Year 2025. Problems include low ridership, depletion of federal pandemic relief funds and fare evasion, causing reduction in services provided. Instead of utilizing the metro, Mason’s Department of Transportation is looking at alternatives such as more shuttles, bike-share programs and carpooling.

“In a perfect world, we would be able to throw money at [WMATA] because, from our university’s sustainability perspective, we want students to be able to use transit and not have to drive,” Cantor said.