Neighborhood News Bureau

Author: briannasimonebush

  • Gen Z college grads struggle but remain determined with post-pandemic job hunting  

    Gen Z college grads struggle but remain determined with post-pandemic job hunting  

    Still shaking off the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, Tampa’s Gen Z graduates are beginning to enter the workforce. But are they ready to face the challenges that await?

    By Joshua Rivera Community & Culture Beat Reporter

    TAMPA – From the comfort of her ring-light-lit dining room table, 25-year-old Savannah Miller takes part in an increasingly common ritual for people her age: She’s interviewing for a job. A few hours later and from the same spot at her table, Miller shared her thoughts.

    “I think it went well,” she said cheerfully.

    Beneath the cautious optimism, however, lies a faint, yet unmistakable tinge of doubt. She can’t be blamed for it; it was her 10th interview in five months.

    Miller, a Tampa native, earned her master’s degree in sustainability and management abroad in the United Kingdom. She graduated in October 2023 and has been pounding the digital pavement on LinkedIn ever since.

    The process, she says, has been a difficult one.

    Miller is not alone in her sentiment. Despite constant news blasts about promising economic figures and job growth, Miller and her other Gen Z peers have been left scratching their heads as their efforts drag on for months.

    A study by Randstad US reveals that this seemingly slow-going pace is actually on par with the typical job search. They note that the average job hunt lasts about five months—a milestone Miller has recently achieved, but it’s clear that the grind has been taking its toll on her optimism.

    Unfortunately, Miller and other Gen Z college graduates may be in for an even longer slog, according to a study by Intelligent Research Group. Their survey of hundreds of employers reveals that some hiring managers are turned off by Gen Z applicants.

    The culprit lies in the generation’s supposed lack of interview skills and etiquette—everything from not making eye contact and wearing improper attire to leaving their cameras off during online interviews.

    The study blames these shortcomings mainly on the lasting impacts of isolation and the shift to online-only interactions during the COVID-19 lockdowns. These measures were enacted right as many Gen Z students were finishing their studies and looking ahead to the workforce.

    While Miller has done well to recover from the effects of the COVID-19 lockdown, it seems that the damage has already been done in the eyes of her potential employers. This may force her to work harder and longer than older workers to overcome these initial perceptions.

    Gen Z must also contend with another, admittedly self-imposed challenge on their job hunts—achieving a desired work-life balance. In a survey from GOBankingRates, 42% of Gen Z workers reported that work-life balance and flexibility— not salaries and bonuses— were top priorities. A finding that Zephyrhills resident Skye Jenkins agrees with.

    “I love to travel,” the 25-year-old IT technician said.

    Jenkins recently started working for Mitsubishi Bank’s IT department after leaving her previous IT support position at a charter school. While “job-hopping” is often touted as a way to increase pay, Jenkins explained that her salary remained the same as at her old job. The difference, she said, was that this new job offered her unlimited paid time off and a fully remote position. Those two benefits alone were enough to get her to jump ship.

    “I definitely think my generation’s priorities have changed since our parents’ [generation]… they were happy to make their jobs their lives, but I just can’t see myself doing that, personally,” she said.

    Tampa’s cost of living is also proving difficult for these young workers. In a recent report from Apartment List, average rent in Tampa saw a 30% increase from 2019-2021. According to a 2023 analysis from Florida Atlantic University and Florida Gulf Coast University, a Tampa resident making less than $84,000 a year would be considered “rent-burdened” by the US Department of Housing and Urban Development.

    For people new to the workforce, $84,000 is a far cry from the salaries they can expect.

    “That number seems about right,” said Evan Johnson, a 25-year-old sales representative for a medical imaging company.

    By his own admission, Johnson is luckier than most, landing a job in his desired field within a few months of graduating and with a starting salary of just over $70,000, which is higher than the average starting salary for most new career entrants, according to Yahoo Finance.

    Despite his strong financial start, Johnson says he’s still not making enough to leave the nest just yet. Until then, Johnson, like so many of his peers, has been forced to delay moving out and stay with his parents. He hopes it will only be for a year.

    Tampa’s Gen Z graduates are entering the workforce in increasing numbers, and they face a growing yet difficult employment environment. They grapple with staying resilient in a job market that sometimes turns its nose up at them; they grapple with breaking the status quo and finding the right work-life balance; and they grapple with being able to afford a place to call their own, even after landing a job.

    While Miller, Jenkins, and Johnson are at different stages of their careers and facing different challenges, they share one thing in common: an unwavering determination and resilience in facing the challenges of Tampa Bay’s job market.

  • Beach volleyball players flock to St. Pete for competition and culture

    Beach volleyball players flock to St. Pete for competition and culture

    By Kendra Reese Community & Culture Beat Reporter

    Pepê Costa’s journey from his childhood in Rio de Janeiro, where he spent his days in the sun-soaked sand, to his current role as a decorated beach volleyball coach, has been defined by his passion for the sport.

    Having coached in 49 countries, including professional and Olympic teams, he has now settled in St. Petersburg. Here, he is determined to use his expertise to guide the local beach volleyball community to its full potential.

    “People here are fanatics about beach volleyball,” said Costa, who landed in St. Petersburg as the technical director for Optimum Beach Volleyball, one of the area’s premiere clubs. “There is a tournament every weekend; they never stop.”

    In the active St. Petersburg area, a driven community of beach volleyball players grows and thrives. The city is known for its bustling, active and healthy community of outdoor sports lovers. Amongst this fiercely competitive community are beach volleyball players, who sleep, breathe and certainly eat sand.

    As parks like Northshore and Gulfport provide a haven for beach volleyball players, organizations like the USF St. Petersburg Volleyball Club and Optimum Beach Volleyball Club gather competitive talent. At the helm of this movement is The Sunshine State Outdoor Volleyball Association (SSOVA), which hosts competitive tournaments allowing for the growth of community and culture.

    This hobby has generated camaraderie among a diverse group of people who enjoy getting outside and competing in a sport. It has even attracted talented and seasoned figures, like Costa, who holds national and world championship titles in many countries, including Brazil, Australia, Paraguay, Japan and Qatar.

    “St. Petersburg provides me with the life I’ve always been used to. I feel at home here, where we play beach volleyball 24/7,” said Costa, referring to his childhood in Brazil.

    The University of South Florida St. Petersburg’s USFSP Volleyball Club gives students a chance to compete, improve and make lasting friendships. The club’s president, Abby Carter, orchestrates the day-to-day activities of the club.

    “The culture of the volleyball team is something that’s super special,” Carter said. “We are like a big family.”

    The group focuses on building friendships, skills and teamwork. The team hosts weekly practices and participates in multiple tournaments throughout the season.

    “I find that a lot of the volleyball team hangs out as friends outside of practice and tournaments, which is really cool,” Carter said. “I can speak for myself and say that most of my really close friends are on the volleyball team, both boys and girls that I’ve met in college, it’s just really cool to see that continuing with other players on the team as well.”

    SSOVA owner and director Isabelle Thayer-Persaud has devoted her life to the beach volleyball community. From meeting her husband to watching her firstborn toddle around the beach, she has built a life around the sport.

    “The most amazing opportunities I’ve had in life have been because of volleyball,” Persaud said. 

    Something that holds many people back from joining a new activity is the cliques, or close-knit friend groups that may be hard to infiltrate. For beach volleyball in St. Pete, there seems to be an open policy regarding newcomers.

    “I feel like beach volleyball is so inclusive; it can be a little cliquey at times, but honestly, I think this area is the least cliquey of them all. I guess the hardest part is finding a court that’s open, these days, we’re growing so much that we need more courts,” Persaud said.

    Unlike other areas that attract beach volleyball players, the locals describe the St. Pete community as inclusive, welcoming and friendly. In such a competitive sport, it can be hard to find areas that are willing to welcome newcomers with open arms; a problem that is not apparent in St. Pete.

    Groups like SSOVA are dedicated to bringing forth positive change through the insistence of green practices. This company strives to leave the beaches cleaner than they found them and even bans players from returning if they are found to leave trash on the beach after tournaments.

    The unique community built upon not only talent but friendship, diversity and good old-fashioned competition makes St. Petersburg stand out as a hub where individuals not only excel in their own abilities but foster lifelong connections.

    These friendships are what make this beach volleyball community special. From the pickup games at Northshore Park to the competitive tournaments hosted by SSOVA, players in St. Pete value sportsmanship, connection and fun above all else.

  • From picnics to parking lots

    From picnics to parking lots

    The inseparable bond between food and entertainment.

    By Brittney Rink Food Beat Reporter

    Throughout history, humans have fostered the connection between food and entertainment. Far beyond the bounds of sports stadiums and concert venues, tailgating has become a classic American tradition that exemplifies the relationship between food and entertainment.

    The History of Tailgating

    Harvest festivals celebrated by the Ancient Romans shaped all the key elements of a modern-day tailgating event. These festivals included community, music, and lots of food and drink before the celebration began. While the Ancient Romans gathered for festivals, the first American tailgate marked history for a darker reason.

    On July 21, 1861, Washington D.C. residents packed their picnic baskets into carriages as they set on for a seven-hour ride to Virginia. Following the sounds of warfare, many spectators gathered to watch the first major battle of the Civil War, the First Battle of Bull Run.

    Miles away from the battlefield spectators watched through opera glasses while enjoying the food they brought for the day. Onlookers thought this battle would be an easy victory for the Union soldiers however the spectators were forced to leave as the Union forces scampered away in defeat.

    Unknown (Photographer). (1861). Picnic at the Battlefield of Bull Run. Courtesy of History Drinks

    The First Battle of Bull Run would later be nicknamed the Picnic Battle. While spectators retreated, future Vice President Henry Wilson handed out left-over sandwiches to the Union soldiers.

    “Food communicates beyond words, offering a means to express hospitality, affection, and social status. It bridges gaps between cultures, serving as a gesture of goodwill and understanding. The social significance of food extends into public health and policy, touching on issues of food security, nutrition, and sustainability,” said Dr. Davide Tanasi, an expert in the archeology of food.

    Eight years later Americans ate in wagons as they watched the first football game, the Rutgers vs. Princeton. Later in the 1880s newspapers reported fans sipping champagne and other refreshments from their wagons parked on the sidelines while watching the annual Yale vs. Princeton Thanksgiving football game.

    By the 1900s football, had become a favorite pastime of many, including those wealthy enough to afford the new motorized buggies. In 1906, automobile sales surpassed 100,000, and 32,000 fans traveled to New Haven to watch the Harvard vs. Yale football game. This included many fans coming early to indulge in the first pre-game tailgate.

    As automobiles became common all across America, colleges started constructing stadiums to hold all of the traveling fans. College town restaurants struggled to accommodate the high number of fans, so “trunk picnics” became popular as people dined on blankets before the game.

    In the 1950s portable grills and plastic coolers increased the tailgating experience. Some NFL teams promoted the parking lot parties as part of the game day experience. The San Francisco 49ers even gave fans booklets with written recipes by the players’ wives.

    While tailgating has been ingrained in American culture for decades, many people throughout history have been known to honor the alliance between food and entertainment.

    Food and Entertainment History

    Every civilization throughout history has used food to bond, connect and socialize. Food and the entertainment industry have gone hand in hand for centuries, this is because food is social.

    “Food transcends its basic role as sustenance, embodying a profound social essence that influences cultural identities, traditions, and human connections. It acts as a vibrant expression of cultural heritage, with diverse preparation methods and ingredients reflecting the unique traditions and values of different communities,” Tanasi said.

    Tanasi references The Odyssey, Book Eight as an example of the earliest well-documented example of food consumption associated with athletic performance and entertainment. Dated in Ancient Greece, late 8th century BC, the book describes a lavish banquet of roast meat and wine during which athletes competed in events such as foot races, wrestling, leaping contests and boxing matches.

    “Food is fundamentally social, deeply embedded in the fabric of human interaction and cultural expression, highlighting its importance not just for physical sustenance but as a pillar of social and cultural identity,” Tanasi said.

    Food and Entertainment Today

    “Food and the entertainment industry share a dynamic relationship, each influencing and enriching the other significantly. Food-centric content, such as cooking shows, food documentaries, and culinary competitions, has become a staple in entertainment, captivating audiences worldwide,” Tanasi said. “Social media has further reshaped this relationship, enabling the sharing of food experiences and culinary innovations with a global audience, thereby blurring the boundaries between food and entertainment even further.”

    Media, specifically social media platforms, has vastly increased the reach of new food and entertainment opportunities. Whether it’s on the posting or receiving end, new food experiences are unlimited.

    Amounting almost 30,000 followers, Jessica Stollenmaier runs the Tampa Food Girl Instagram account. Jessica’s mission with her page is to connect locals with Tampa’s “best food, drinks, and events through vibrant pictures and video.”

    “Social media has completely changed my career path! I was working in education as a director of standardized testing at a tutoring company and as an adjunct history instructor at State College of Florida and Saint Leo University when I started my Instagram food blog. I wanted to share my love of food and my passion for the growing culinary scene in Tampa as a creative outlet.”

    “As the page grew and I refined my skills in creating content, local hospitality businesses began asking for consulting and social management services. I loved those experiences and decided to officially launch my own business in 2021,” Stollenmaier said.

    While speaking about the popular cooking challenge shows people watch as entertainment, Stollenmaier said the following.

    “Food and drinks are sustenance, but they are also things around which people historically build community. Perhaps people are creating community around food they don’t actually eat as a way to fulfill that desire for connection to food and others.” 

    Eckerd College professor and previous Tampa Bay Times food writer, Janet Keeler has been entwined with food and its connection to entertainment for decades. Keeler expressed how social media has changed the industry of food writing.

    “It has changed the industry because it’s opened more opportunities for people who want to write about food. Before the internet, writers needed someone to hire them but now they can start their own publications, blogs, websites, newsletters,” Keeler said.

    Working in the newsroom for 15 years, Keeler shared her experience with food writing revolving around a calendar of events and entertainment. Mentioning stories about holidays related to food such as Thanksgiving and turkeys, and the Super Bowl and its connection to themed foods.

    “I think I wrote 15 Super Bowl stories and wow, that’s hard to come up with ideas! Sometimes they are tied to the teams, crab cakes for New England Patriots, Cuban sandwiches for the Bucs, Coffee everything for the Seattle Seahawks, etcetera,” Keeler said.

    Closing

    “I will tell you though, I loved writing about food and really look at it like culture writing. It is a subject that intersects with culture, health, economics, entertainment, immigration, etcetera,” Keeler said.

    Food and entertainment date back thousands of years, spanning across the world. A relationship that has been fostered and passed down for generations. Whether it’s tailgating or binging a food competition TV series, Tanasi summarizes this connection beautifully.

    “Despite the evolution in how food and entertainment intersect, the core remains unchanged: both serve as a means to foster community, celebrate culture, and create shared moments,” he said.

  • ORCA biodigester removed from USFSP’s Nest. What’s next?

    ORCA biodigester removed from USFSP’s Nest. What’s next?

    With the recent removal of biodigester ORCA, the Student Green Energy Fund is exploring alternative plans to combat food waste on campus.

    By Katie Sing Community & Culture Beat Reporter

    The ORCA, a food waste management biodigester, was quietly removed from the University of South Florida St. Petersburg’s dining facility “The Nest” in early February.

    Established in 2019, the ORCA was supported by the Student Green Energy Fund to target campus food waste reduction. However, with the growing student population, increased technical malfunctions with the biodigester led to its inevitable removal.

    Exclusively working with ORCA’s company under contract, USFSP was the first Florida university to use this cutting-edge technology on its campus grounds.

    By using oxygen, water and microorganisms, the biodigester had a reliable job in the Nest kitchen by helping dining staff break down non-edible food waste left by students. Transforming the broken-down waste into a liquid, it’s then transported through a filter and disposed into a sanitary sewer system in a sustainably safe fashion.

    Matthew Cimitile, the assistant director of communications at USFSP and the staff advisor of SGEF, understands the student body’s concern regarding food waste on our campus.

    “The students I interact with, climate change is always at the front of their mind, and you know the reason you want to compost and deal with food waste is that food waste is a huge emitter of greenhouse gases when they’re put in landfills,” Cimitile said.

    When ORCA came to campus in August of 2019, USF’s magazine reported it was responsible for steering 8,466 pounds of food waste away from landfills.

    Before The Nest was built in spring 2021, the ORCA was originally in the University Student Center, USFSP’s main cafeteria at the time. After The Nest was created, the ORCA was rehomed to its new location.

    However, with the gradual increase of incoming students in the past academic years aiding the campus’ continual growth, the amount of food waste has been overwhelming the biodigester. This eventually led to the decision to part ways with ORCA.

    Iris Van Der Veen, an environmental science major and chair for SGEF, further explains how USFSP’s student population growth led to the removal of ORCA.

    “We have such a large student population that it can’t handle the amount of food waste that we produce,” Van Der Veen said.

    “Our student population has grown each year and because of that, it wasn’t able to take all of that food waste because that’s not what it was made for,” she said. “It was made for a smaller-scale school. We weren’t planning on growing that much.”

    According to FoodPrint, more than 22 million pounds of food gets thrown away by U.S. colleges annually. Food waste sent to landfills is a known contributor to greenhouse gases due to its release of carbon dioxide and methane gas – one of many leading causes of climate change.

    Posing as an environmental challenge, USFSP addresses this through the help of their SGEF student-led team. In response to the removal of ORCA, the SGEF team has been considering possible solutions to continue their food waste management efforts.

    Cimitile raises a valid point of the importance of reanalyzing the statistics of how much food waste the dining hall generates.

    “Since we removed the Orca, they’re installing this thing called Lean Path. Basically, it’s a scale to measure how much food waste dining is generating per day,” Cimitile said.

    From this system alone, they are estimating around 100 pounds are produced per day at The Nest.

    Besides Lean Path, there are current discussions of replacing the biodigester with a composting system. Composting could be tricky as some process certain waste and have different limits, which can be a recognizable problem when it comes to meticulously sorting through a varied amount of student food waste.

    Jim Ivey, an environmental science professor at USFSP and a faculty member under SGEF, weighs in on their consideration of having a commercial composter on campus to combat this issue of food waste.

    “Orca put out a liquid… and you can eventually get a useful product out of it, but the nice thing about composting is it comes out already ready. You just mix it with a certain proportion of your soil,” Ivey said.

    Ivey emphasizes the different opportunities for the usage of compost on this campus such as working with neighboring organizations, restaurants and community farms in giving out compost. With the idea of composting on our school grounds, it would also ideally work in conjunction with revitalizing our school’s community “Food Forest.”

    USFSP Food Forest lives behind Pelican Apartments and is being redeveloped to restore it to its original state and purpose as a student-maintained communal source of food.

    “The food forest was a really productive community garden up until the pandemic,”  Cimitile said. “Our goal is to replant the food force as a potential fund funding with a local urban agriculture organization to help us replant it and make it productive again.”

    Apart from the restoration efforts of the Food Forest, different plans to sustainably better the campus through SGEF’s agenda. Some of those plans include bringing in new bikes for the student population to rent out and fixing some of the solar-powered benches.

    With a continual commitment to USFSP’s aim for a sustainable green campus, ORCA was one of the many steps our campus will continue to implement to better waste management solutions on school grounds through the efforts of dining and SGEF.

  • Seasoned Green’s vegan food truck journey

    Seasoned Green’s vegan food truck journey

    Seasoned Green is breaking stereotypes one meal at a time with their flavorful vegan and vegetarian menu.

    By Anisha Paudel Community & Culture Beat Reporter

    In the busy streets of Tampa, where good eats are everywhere, one stands out for its commitment to inclusivity and flavor: Seasoned Green. This vegan and vegetarian food truck isn’t just about salads and steamed vegetables; it’s a culinary adventure that caters to a diverse range of tastes and dietary needs.

    In a city where finding a satisfying vegetarian option can be a challenge, Seasoned Green offers a menu that celebrates the rich tastes of New American, Caribbean and Southern cuisines — all completely plant-based.

    Chris Carr is the man behind the truck. He has been vegan for about 8 years.

    “Me going vegan started off as a challenge,” Carr said.

    It began when Carr and some coworkers made a challenge to not have any soda for a week. They completed it successfully and then thought to not eat any meat for a week.

    “After that challenge ended, I actually had some meat, and then I could instantly feel a difference, it didn’t feel good,” Carr said.

    Since that day, he decided that was it. Carr said going vegan wasn’t as hard as it seems.

    Seasoned Greens started as a response to the lack of vegan options in Tampa Bay, or at least a flavorful plant-based meal. When diving into veganism, Carr wanted something more impactful with Southern and Caribbean flavors. At the time, he couldn’t check off everything on his list for what he was looking for, so he decided to do it himself.

    Carr is not the only person who had trouble when starting a vegan journey. Many vegetarians and vegans in the Tampa Bay area tend to feel like they either must accept whatever they come across or just feel like a burden.

    “If my friends are going to a restaurant, I am getting a salad or an appetizer, that is how it usually goes,” said Evalyse Sanabria, a vegetarian.

    Sanabria became a vegetarian again four months ago after taking a break from it. She has been having some trouble, whether going out with friends or exploring the city.

    “I know they closed two vegan places recently, but in general, it’s difficult to find things that are vegetarian, even harder for vegans,” said Sanabria when asked about any good local vegetarian foods in the area.

    Then some people in the community feel like things have gotten better for the vegetarian and vegan options in restaurants or grocery stores.

    “Being a vegan was awesome, when I first started, of course I could get vegetables and stuff like that for food, but now there are some vegan alternatives, sure they may be pricey, but it is better than just vegetables,” said Lisa Ballard, who was a vegan for three years.

    Ballard said she was also able to manage as well, and while she may not be a vegan right now, she loves to see better options. She still enjoys being a vegan, but it was just time-consuming to cook different meals for her family because they didn’t want to eat the same meals as her.

    There seems to be a dilemma in the community, either there isn’t enough representation of good vegetarian and vegan options, or if there is, people just have to accept it, whether they enjoy it or not.

    Seasoned Green challenges that dilemma and tries their best to create inclusive and flavorful meals that vegetarians and vegans can enjoy and not just settle with.

  • Bulls on Faith: Perspectives from USF’s own in a changing world

    Bulls on Faith: Perspectives from USF’s own in a changing world

    Faith is personal, but how does education affect it? From student to staff, each have their own perspective and relationship with higher education and religion

    By Eaon Hurley Faith Beat Reporter

    About half of traditional college age people remain stable in their level of religious commitment and practice (or lack of.) About forty percent show a decline in religiousness. And a small percent of students see an increase in religiousness

    Michael DeJonge, professor and chair of the Religious Studies department at USF

    Religion is an incredibly sensitive and personal topic, though often pelted like snowballs in debates and equally mishandled in the hands of judgment. It still feels taboo to even broach the subject from time to time.

    While nobody wants to talk about it, we should. Pew research has found that 28% of U.S. adults forgo religion and identify with what is being called “nones,” those being atheists, agnostics or “nothing in particular.” Further, Pew reports that a third of U.S. teens are unaffiliated with religion.

    More youth are finding freedom of choice in their religion. A number of factors could be leading to the rise of nones among young people, though sometimes higher education is cited as the cause. It’s not an unusual claim, particularly with the rising number of college nones, and is an argument recently favored by politicians.

    At USF, perspectives on religion vary from person to person, and higher education doesn’t always sway the student’s path. Many factors play into one’s religious affiliation, and there are times when a college career can cement those perspectives.

    Brittney Rink, a senior at the University of South Florida studying digital communication and multimedia journalism, is a Christian. While she grew up in and around the church, she did not fully embrace the religion until several years ago. At the time, she was moving from Iowa to Florida during her senior year of high school, and that is when it clicked for her.

    “It was like I’m actively in a moment where God, for me, was like ‘you need to be here, you’re ok, but you have to kind of let go of this life I was living in Iowa,’” Rink said.

    While the number of nones rises, Rink has no plans to become one. In fact, her college experience has allowed her spirituality to grow. She’s had opportunities to be a leader at a Christian camp too, an experience she feels was equally beneficial for her, if not more.

    “That’s never something that I would have guessed; like I would be baptizing somebody. That was such a moment that was like… I’m supposed to be here,” she said.

    While the notion of religious affiliations changing during a college career sustains the arguments of politicians, and among the rising number of nones, it is not unusual for individuals to find themselves staying stagnant. Even during one’s impressionable twenties.

    “About half of traditional college-age people remain stable in their level of religious commitment and practice (or lack of.) About forty percent show a decline in religiousness. And a small percent of students see an increase in religiousness,” said Michael DeJonge, professor and chair of the Religious Studies department at USF.

    “A big part of the story, then, is also stability,” he said.

    DeJonge is speaking about the relationship between religion and emerging adults. The term emerging adult, coined by psychologist Jeffery Arnett, is associated with an openness to exploration, experimentation and discovery, according to DeJonge. Naturally then, among all other shifting sands in their life, students of the emerging adult age may find themselves curious about what’s next in the scope of religion and spirituality.

    “Emerging adults are also renegotiating their relationships with their parents, which also means renegotiating their relationship with whatever religious (or non-religious) resources their parents gave them,” DeJonge said.

    Plenty of attributes pour into the perception of a student, leaving the reason almost unknown into what, or why, a student’s perception may change.

    Dr Marianne Florian, a visiting professor at USF, gives insight into this point.

    “I think that it can be a challenge to connect, for example, what you would learn in a biology class with how you view the value of the natural world,” Florian said.

    She received her Ph.D. in American Religious Cultures from Emory University. Further in her work, she researched the use of a compassion meditation protocol that hospital chaplains were learning to practice with. The compassion meditation protocol is based on Tibetan Buddhist techniques.

    Florian explains that while different religious worldviews may crop up in a student’s career, it is possible that courses on natural worldviews and ideas such as evolutionary theory may conflict with someone’s preconceived ideas, challenging them in new ways.

    “I personally find it extremely inspiring, but they can come into conflict, or we can inherit narratives of conflict from our society and our culture,” she said.

    Many aspects of a student’s career can challenge them, even outside of faith. For youth and young adults, it can be difficult to navigate in an ever-growing world while grappling with your own view and ideas of it. Especially when your worldviews are shifting themselves. If you find yourself in a time of confusion, young adult or otherwise, and your spirituality is changing just as the world does around us, it is important to remember that it’s natural.

    “We all have been there, always, it never ends. Faith does not come without testing… teachers are silent during tests,” Rink said.

    DeJonge said religious change “can be both scary and exciting.”

    “See if you can find people to talk to who aren’t scared of it, who can help you see that it is an expected part of the growth process to explore different ways of thinking about religion,” he said.

    Florians suggests not approaching spiritual evolution as a “DIY project.”

    “There are trustworthy mentors and teachers in religious and spiritual traditions, and there are wise people in the world who have our best interests at heart,” she said. “One of the highest priorities for someone who is a relative beginner, or who is maybe at a transition point or even an impasse, it’s not necessary and it’s not skillful to go it alone and think of it as something you have to figure out for yourself, rather be open to help and wisdom that is more experience than one’s own.”

  • Ringling Underground brings the community together through music

    Ringling Underground brings the community together through music

    For 12 years the Ringling Museum has united the Sarasota community with their fondness for the arts.

    By Darialy Alvarez Community & Culture Beat Reporter

    On the first Thursday of every month, the Ringling Museum courtyard transforms into an evening celebrating music, community and artistry. The Ringling Underground event has become a social hub for Sarasota locals, enhancing the sense of community through the arts.

    The event begins at 8 p.m. on the first Thursday of every month during the school year. The evening is taken over by three bands; a local, a regional and a state one. The genres range from rock to folk, to alternative and more. The concert series is three hours long, and there are pauses between sets.

    The Ringling Underground has been going for over 12 years, and it was first started to give college students a way to come together and celebrate music in a city where the majority of the population was retirees. Years later, the attendees of the events of all ages, cultural backgrounds and races gather together to celebrate music.

    Steven High, the Executive Director of the Ringling Museum, shared the importance of the arts within a community and how the Underground program can unite people in an incredible way.

    “It is absolutely critical to make the work that we do be accessible to everyone in the community, programs like Underground are a great way to introduce the museum to the whole young group of emerging artists and young professionals,” High said.

    Throughout the evening, there is more than just music. There are drinks, food, exhibitions, performance pieces, games and more. There is always an art gallery open to the public. It is a great way to make connections, especially for those interested in getting involved in the arts or simply trying to find a new passion.

    The entrance for residents is only $15. Students of certain universities and museum members get in free with proof of ID.

    “So for us, it’s an absolutely important program that…it is a bridge between the younger population here in town, the college age and older population with the museum,” High said.

    Briana Lutzi, also known as Briana! the lead singer of Lemon Royale, had her second performance at the Ringling Underground in February. This opportunity has allowed her to perform her own music and share who she is with her community. She mentioned how important it is for a community to come together.

    “There is so much value that music brings. It’s such a healing thing, and I think Sarasota, especially, is a place that is just full of vibrant, vibrant artists and musicians, and it’s a hub,” she said. “Like, it’s truly a hub for local talent, and having the community support is what keeps me going.”

    This program is an opportunity for people within the community but for local artists trying to make a name for themselves.

    “Having people that I know I’m touching with my songs and my music; it just means the world to me,” Lutzi said.

    Just like her, there are many artists who use the event as a way to find connections with other people within their field.

    Sherlyn Garcia, a Sarasota resident and inspiring artist, attended the event after hearing some friends talk about it. As someone pursuing music, she said she loves that these bands can come together and share their art for the evening.

    “I loved the vibes throughout the night, the diversity, and the musical talent that took over the stage,” Garcia said.

    The vibrant ambiance left Garcia wanting more.

    “I am looking forward to the next event, I am planning to bring some of my friends,” she said. “Who knows, maybe one day, I will have the opportunity to share my music on that stage.”

    “I wanted to see Ringling Underground get bigger and bigger and bigger every year,” Lutzi said.

    To know more information about upcoming events and how to buy tickets visit the Ringling website. Tickets are subject to availability. Attendees can also purchase tickets at the door, as long as the event is not sold out.

  • USF baseball looks to follow in the footsteps of basketball and football

    USF baseball looks to follow in the footsteps of basketball and football

    By Jorden Pompey Sports Beat Reporter

    The University of South Florida Bulls are looking for redemption after being voted fifth in the American Athletic Conference (AAC) pre-season rankings. The Bulls also have three pre-season AAC selections. 

    East Carolina University received the top of the AAC preseason rankings, although, USF received one first-place vote. 

    It has been three years since the Bulls made it to the College World Series losing in the Super Regional round to getting swept by Texas in 2021.

    Last season, USF ended its campaign last in the AAC standings. Throughout the AAC Tournament, the Bulls pulled off two upsets by defeating the East Carolina Pirates in the first round and the University of Central Florida Knights in the second round.

    Senior Hunter Mink throws a pitch to a University of Connecticut batter.

    In the semifinals, the Bulls and Pirates met again, and the Pirates swept the Bulls.

    “It definitely wasn’t enjoyable to lose a lot last year and we’re looking to clean that up,” junior utility player Bobby Boser said.

    Boser one of the five Bulls to make the preseason All-Conference team led the team in multiple statistical categories such as on-base percentage, triples, home runs and slugging percentage. Boser was also within the top 10 of those categories.

    “Bobby Bombs, Bobby Boser, he’s Bobby Ball Player to me. He’s a great player, he brings 100% effort every single day he’s out there, he’s a perfect representation of what this program is in terms of blue-collar,” head coach Billy Mohl said. 

    Mohl aims to get back to the status the Bulls had in 2021. Mohl has the 2024 schedule set up for success to become a contender in the College World Series. 

    USF’s second game of the season against he University of Louisville was canceled due to inclement weather.

    “We want a competitive schedule. We want a competitive chance to get to the tournament without having to win a conference tournament in terms of RPI,” Mohl said. 

    Senior infielder John Montes slides into third base.

    The AAC has made new additions to its conference after Central Florida, Cincinnati and Houston departed to join the Big 12.  Newcomers Charlotte, Rice, Florida Atlantic University (FAU) Alabama-Birmingham and University Texas-San Antonio (UTSA) join after leaving Conference USA.

    Teams like UTSA, Rice and FAU who have made big runs into the postseason have added competitiveness to the AAC. 

    “It’s only a matter of time before they get it going again, but it’s really good baseball,” Mohl said.

    Mohl is also bringing back associate head coach Alan Kunkel and assistant coach Chris Cates to the staff to bring back the winning culture. 

    Kunkel was a part of the 2021 staff that made it to the Super Regional round. 

    In addition to being the head coach, Mohl is taking over as the pitching coach – a position which Mohl served in for three seasons from 2015 to 2017.

    “What coach Mohl always tells you is to throw strikes — good strikes — and that’s the biggest thing for success in college baseball,” junior pitcher Jack Cebert said.

    Another Preseason All-AAC selection in sophomore infielder Eric Snow has made Mohl hopeful to have a stellar defense from Snow and Boser this season.

    Snow led the team in assisted outs with 145 and cumulated 20 double plays last season. 

    A winning atmosphere calls for a change in looks as well. The baseball stadium at Red McEwen Field has received a new paint job and has pictures of past USF players along the concourse to pay homage.

    With the success that the football, track and field and men’s and women’s basketball programs, Mohl looks forward to following in those footsteps this season with the new looks of the team and stadium. 

    “When I walked into the Yuengling Center, for the first time I saw that the whole student section was full, that was incredible. What they’re doing right now it’s a lot of fun,” Mohl said after he watched the first half of the men’s basketball game against FAU.

    Men’s basketball head coach Amir Abdur-Rahim has shown his support to the other USF sports during his tenure and has encouraged students to witness what is to come during the new baseball season. 

    It seems that USF athletics are figuring things out at the right time and at the same time. As the basketball season winds down, all eyes will be locked in on the baseball, softball and track field teams.

    The Bulls currently sit third in the AAC behind UTSA and East Carolina, 6-3 in conference play and 19-13 overall.

  • Tampa baseball standout gaining nationwide recognition

    Tampa baseball standout gaining nationwide recognition

    Ethan Petry is in his sophomore season at the University of South Carolina after a promising freshman year. Experts believe the Tampa Bay native may soon be destined for the MLB draft.

    By: Avery Schaub Community & Culture

    Ethan Petry, a standout from Wesley Chapel’s Cypress Creek High School, emerged with remarkable promise on the national baseball scene.

    Graduating in 2022, Petry quickly captured attention as one of the country’s premier baseball prospects. Now, with his sights set on his sophomore season at the University of South Carolina, he continues to shine brightly on the collegiate stage. He even earned recognition on the pre-season ALL-SEC First Team following an electrifying freshman season.

    Petry began his rise to prominence at Cypress Creek as a freshman in 2018, their inaugural year, and quickly showed scouts why he would be in the spotlight for years. His recruitment process began early, even committing to the University of South Florida. However, he reopened his recruitment and eventually found a home at the University of South Carolina.

    At Cypress Creek, Petry batted a collective .402 with 12 home runs, 80 RBIs (runs batted in), and a 1.211 OPS (on-base plus slugging).

    Before stepping onto the diamond at Cypress Creek, head baseball coach Joseph Neale had the opportunity to coach Petry as a football player at Cypress Creek Middle School. It was during this period Neale knew that Petry would be special.

    “His passion, work ethic, athletic ability, and commitment to being the best at whatever he did was evident from day one,” Neale said.

    Flash forward to February 19, 2023, the true freshman would start his first game at South Carolina against UMASS Lowell. Petry started the game at the designated hitter’s position, recording one hit, being a home run in 3 at-bats.

    “One of the things that has helped me, is just realizing that it is just a game and enjoy every moment you have in college because it only lasts for four years. I don’t really focus on physical miscues, all of that takes care of itself if your mind is right,” said Petry, on what has helped him transition from high school to college baseball.

    Petry would continue his rookie season, transitioning between right field, third base, and sometimes assuming the designated hitter role. Standing at 6’4, 230 lbs, Petry has gained comparisons to highly touted big leaguers, some comparing Petry to those such as Rockies INF Kris Bryant per Aaron Fitt’s NCAA article.

    “His maturity and leadership were the most impressive things for me throughout his time at Cypress Creek. His competitiveness is unmatched compared to anyone I have ever been around,” Neale said.

    The moment that ushered Petry to the spotlight came on April 6, 2023, when the Gamecocks faced off against number one-ranked LSU (Louisiana State University). Petry’s stat line consisted of two hits in three at-bats, including two home runs, one being a grand slam, and eight  RBIs. The first home run came against Paul Skenes, the first overall draft pick in the 2023 MLB draft by the Pittsburgh Pirates.

    “I am blessed to have been a small part of his ongoing journey,” Neale said. “A monstrous home run or a great defensive play are awesome to see from him, but the joy and passion that he plays with is the best part for me.”

    Petry would continue his impressive freshman season, earning numerous honors and awards such as the ALL-SEC First Team, and Baseball America’s Freshman All-American First Team. Petry’s final slash line was .376 (AVG)/.471 (OBP)/.733 (SLG), 1.204 (OPS) with 23 home runs and 75 RBIs.

    Petry not only tallied one of the greatest freshman seasons in school history, but he also put himself inside the top 10 in Gamecock record books for home runs, RBIs, slugging percentage, and OPS.

    Anthony Zurita, current coach and a former teammate of Petry’s, claims that as Petry advanced through high school, his IQ, skills and leadership qualities expanded in many ways, allowing everyone around him to learn from him.

    “Many players have true grit, but few do it in a way that can grow them and the people around them. He can provide passion and confidence into a full team of players,” Zurita said.

    Petry will not be MLB draft eligible until 2025, his junior year of college. His breakout freshman season increased his draft stock tremendously. However, many different baseball outlets such as Baseball America project Petry to be a top 10 pick with some putting him as high as a top 2 pick.

    “I have the same mindset coming in as last year. Be myself, and back my teammates up… Because at the end of the day, it’s just a game that’s meant to be fun,” Petry said.

    The Tampa Bay area has always been a hot spot for college sports recruitment. From baseball to basketball, hockey to football, the area is known for producing top-tier talent. Petry is making his mark and putting Cypress Creek and the area on the map.

    “Having Ethan be a part of Cypress Creek was a true stepping stone to the things and success the baseball program has. Younger players got to learn from him and see his journey start here. A great example of how a high school player can define his legacy,” Zurita said.

    While Petry is making a name for himself in the Carolinas, he will always have a deep connection with his hometown in the Tampa Bay area.

    “I miss it every day, being back there and hanging with my guys. I still stay in touch with them (the baseball program) because they meant a lot to me, they have seen my ups and downs and know me very well,” Petry said.

  • Earning while learning: The art of working on campus

    Earning while learning: The art of working on campus

    By Nathan Poinsette Community & Culture Beat Reporter

    Why work on campus?

    What are the benefits and challenges?

    Meet Ananda Myers

    She is a senior Psychology major on a pre-med track at USFSP. Currently, she holds three on-campus jobs: Harborside Activities Board vice president, New Student Experience transfer peer coach and UMatter academic & residential mentor. Ananda lives locally with her parents and commutes to school by car.

    Ananda’s why

    1. More convenient than off-campus employment

    “Going to work and then going to class and then being able to return to work is a benefit. Since I already commute to campus for classes, being able to stay on campus to work and then go home at the end of the night is a plus for me,” she said.

    2. Opportunities to make new connections with students, faculty and staff

    “With these roles, I can make new friends and help other students along the way.”

    3. Not too demanding

    “Most on-campus jobs are 9 hours each, so It does not take up too much of my time and fits my schedule better than working with an off-campus job,” she said.

    Since she works on campus, there is no work on weekends, which she appreciates dearly.

    Meet Steven Duvrge

    He is a senior political science major at USFSP. He is a career peer advisor at the Center for Career and Professional Development, beginning this role during his freshman year. His family lives in Ruskin and he lives on campus but does not own a vehicle.

    Steven’s why

    1. Accessibility

    “Since I didn’t have a car, I knew I wouldn’t want to walk or take public transportation to work. Having an on-campus job meant I could get to and from class very quickly,” he said.

    2. Accommodations

    “Since they know I am a student, they understand that my classes come first, which is universally understood by employers on campus,” Steven said.

    Steven also mentioned how they are very flexible with his work hours.

    3. Awareness

    “You are working with professional staff where they know all the resources available to students. Since you are constantly communicating with them, there is so much information that is being thrown at you. It helps you feel better prepared and more connected to faculty and staff,” Steven said.

    Challenges

    If you’re aiming to boost your finances, the key is multiple on-campus jobs; a single job just won’t cut it.

    Amanda Myers, senior Psychology major on PreMed track at USFSP

    Given that general student employees at USF are only paid Florida’s minimum wage, one on-campus job won’t suffice to support yourself.

    “In general, off-campus jobs offer better pay. As an on-campus worker, you might find securing the hours you desire challenging,” Steven said.

    Another concern for Steven that was a benefit for Myers is that you can’t work on weekends.

    If I were to have a job off campus, chances are I would probably put the bulk of my time on the weekends to have enough time throughout the week for class and extracurriculars

    Steven Duvrge, senior political science major at USFSP

    Directors

    Lesa Shouse Director of the Center of Career and Professional Development
    Lesa Shouse, Director of the Center of Career and Professional Development

    Faculty perspective

    “I suggest on-campus employment over off-campus employment”

    Kyonna Henry, Director of Student Life and Engangment

    “We as supervisors know course schedules and when final exams are. We understand you have an academic journey that needs to be number one. When you go to Publix or Target, they don’t care about your course schedule; they could care less about what you are doing on campus, “ Kyonna said.

    Student employee

    “I joke with supervisors, parents, and students all the time that a student employee is a STUDENT first, “ Lesa Shouse said. “ A student can tell their supervisor that they have to study for an exam tomorrow, and their supervisor would be more sympathetic to that than maybe some large company externally.”

    Video Essay designed by Nathan Poinsette Download