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(10/30/14 7:30pm)
Auburn's head chef has found a way to eat healthy and make delicious meals in a microwave.
"This is a new thing to me, as I have not professionally cooked in a microwave for 25 years," said Emil Topel, senior executive chef of Chartwells.
Chartwells is the food service contractor at Auburn, where Topel uses his culinary skills to leave his mark on campus.
Raised in England, Topel attended culinary school in London before moving to the United States at age 19.
Topel has experience in many restaurants and hotels, owned a gourmet market, produced his own gourmet sauces and wrote and published his own Auburn cookbook.
Currently, Topel oversees every culinary operation on campus and is the brains behind the Plains to Plate dining venue, which has brought sustainable and locally grown foods to campus.
Topel partnered with the Office of Sustainability to teach students to cook meals with microwaves through the Microwave Meals in Minutes event Wednesday, Oct. 22.
"With the dorms on campus and limited cooking equipment, this is a good class to teach so students can create quick, easy meals," Topel said.
Topel said he would use a variety of ingredients, including a store-bought rotisserie chicken, to teach students some basics of cooking and offer simple culinary solutions.
"Speed is a benefit of cooking in a microwave," Topel said. "And in a dorm room with limited equipment, it is a good alternative that can lower expenses and provide healthy meals."
Topel said he loves cooking because it allows him to be creative, loves watching his guests enjoy what he produces.
Mike Kelser, director of the Office of Sustainability, said he admires Topel and is glad he participated in the event.
Kesler said the purpose of the Microwave Meals in Minutes event is to provide students with ideas to eat healthier in dorms.
Topel instructed students on how to cook microwave meals, sustainability when it comes to food, ways to support the local economy and how to eat healthier.
"He has a passion for creating fresh and nutritious food," Kelser said.
According to Kelser, Topel makes a special effort to teach students how to eat well and fresh.
"That's his mission in life," Kelser said. "He's a real asset to Auburn."
Hallie Nelson, sophomore in biosystems engineering, serves as an event-planning intern for the Office of Sustainability.
Nelson said she worked alongside fellow intern Nathan McWhirter, junior in mechanical engineering, to plan the Microwave Meals in Minutes events and chose Topel as the instructor because of his advanced culinary skills.
According to Nelson, Topel has participated in culinary events before, but never using a microwave.
"I think he did a great job coming up with recipes that the students will love," Nelson said.
Nelson said she is thankful Topel is passionate about combining sustainability with food.
Amy Strickland, program manager for the Office of Sustainability, said she agrees with Kelser that Topel is a valuable part of the Auburn Family.
Strickland said Topel will be successful at encouraging students to make better microwavable culinary choices, "which does not include ramen noodles."
(11/02/14 1:00pm)
Nine people sat around a table.Boxes and binders stuffed with cards adorned with mythical beasts were set beside them, ready for use.
The name of the game is Magic: The Gathering, and its participants gather to compete in cardboard-bound brawls twice a week.
"The goal is to bash your opponent in the face with fantasy monsters," said Abraham Schnake, vice president of the Magic card game club and senior in accounting.
Schnake slid two trading cards with elaborately illustrated angels on them across the table and toward his opponent, Kevin Murphy, fellow member of the Magic Club and senior in public administration. Several layers of cards lay in rows and dice of different shapes and colors were scattered on the table.
"And I just bashed his face in with two of my angels," Schnake said.
Magic: The Gathering was created in 1993, but has only had an official place at Auburn since the Magic Club was founded in 2009.
The club sits by the Student Center Game Room on Monday and Thursday afternoons, with members battling it out through their massive collections of playing cards.The fantasy monsters displayed on the cards vary in power and ability.
Players can send their creatures to attack an opponent. Unless that opponent has creatures of his or her own to stop this attack, he or she will lose life. Once a player's life reaches zero, he or she loses.
Many competitive participants have extensive collections, containing thousands of cards.
Like any collector's item, the cards change in worth with the passing of time and become more valuable over time. If the card is particularly powerful during game play, and also has a vintage aspect, it could cost thousands of dollars.
Murphy said a card called the Black Lotus, which was a part of the original set of Magic cards, is extremely valuable in game play as well as financially. It is currently priced at about $25,000, and continues to rise.
"The deck I'm playing now is valued at about $375," said Sally Martin, senior in psychology. "My trade binder is worth about $2,000."
Martin said, similar to most hobbies, Magic only increases in competition and amusement with the amount of time and money one is willing to invest in it.
"Once you get a good card base, trading is the way to go for collection's sake," Martin said. "Also, if you can have hunches on which cards will be good."
Many of the members have been playing Magic since they were kids. They slowly built their repertoire of trading cards as time passed. Many players fade in and out of involvement.
"I want to play this when I'm an old grandma," Martin said. "I expect to be showing my future kids how to play, but not letting them touch my expensive cards."
Consistent contributors, Murphy said, develop a savvy and familiarity with the game, so making predictions becomes second nature.
"There is a small subset of players, that myself and Kevin are a part of, that play to win and try to build the best possible deck," Schnake said. "Most players just play casually. They play the cards they like and think are fun."
However, as time goes on and more and more characters and strategies get introduced, the complexities of the game itself become taxing on its participants.
Members recount the simplicity of the game in its original glory, but with increasing size and interest, competition becomes fiercer.
"It doesn't play anything like what it was," Murphy said. "It feels like an entirely different game. It's really complicated, but that makes the game way more interesting than the original. It works in ways you wouldn't expect."
(10/28/14 1:30pm)
Halloween is my absolute favorite holiday. I love zombies. I love candy corn. It falls during what might be the most pleasant-weathered month of the calendar year, and it gives me a reason to buy the obscene amounts of fake blood I pine for the other 365 days.
But the older I've gotten, the more I've noticed Halloween changing -- and not in the typical "you're too old to trick-or-treat" way. Halloween has become political. It has been infected by a misogynistic society. Yes, I'm talking about slut-shaming.
Let's stop shying away from it: humans -- that means men and, shocker, women -- are sexual creatures. Whether or not you believe that is because of a god's design or biology is irrelevant; even the Bible mentions sex has its place and is meant to be enjoyed.
Women and men desire sex equally, contrary to what movies with cuckolding wives would have us believe. But it's stereotypical female roles like that that lead to the perception that a woman who loves her body, who loves to show it off and use it, is a whore.
Men who do the same thing are typically given high-fives and hearty shouts of "get it, bro."
Halloween reinforces that.
Have you ever looked at the difference in men and women's Halloween costumes? Head on over to Party City and take a gander, if you haven't. A man can be a firefighter, a policeman, a superhero. Women are Flirty Firefighter, Curvy Cop, Sexy Superhero. Let's face it, ladies, when it comes to mainstream costumes we have a pretty limited selection, and who doesn't want to look cute?
Nobody, and yet when we wear things that show off our assets -- the things every other girl is wearing, we're met with a social-media chorus of "Girls, respect yourselves, don't dress like a slut!"
What if I wear a short dress because I like my legs? What if I wear a corset because it makes my waist look awesome? What if women wear these costumes to feel good about themselves and not in the hopes of snagging a man to take home at the end of the night?
Revealing costumes are not the same thing as a booty call. Wearing a bikini top to a bar does not mean yes. It doesn't mean that if someone does choose to take advantage of a girl it's her fault.
Women, wear what you want, and wear it for you. Men and women alike, stop perpetuating a rape-culture mentality. Drop the words skank and slut from your Halloween vocabulary. Drop them from your entire vocabulary, actually. If you're don't want to wear something skimpy, don't wear it. But don't be offended because other people do, and especially don't shame people who aren't like you. Be comfortable in your own skin. Wear what makes you feel beautiful, or enchanted, or -- if you're like me -- undead and hungry for the brains of the living. But most importantly, show each other the respect and kindness you want to be shown, and have a fun, safe Halloween.
Raye May is the photography editor at The Plainsman. She can be reached at photo@theplainsman.com
(10/29/14 3:00pm)
Dear Editor and Citizens of Alabama,
I'm writing to you to say hello from the smallest state in the union, Rhode Island. I am a seventh grade student at Goff Junior High School in Pawtucket, RI. For my geography class we are working on a semester long project on a particular U.S. state. I chose your state because I love the Auburn Tigers.
Could you publish this letter so that your readers could help me on my project?
I've realized that first hand information from citizens of our chosen state is more helpful than anything I could get online. If your readers could send some information, pictures, or tourist information it would help me so much with my project. Your readers can send the information right to me at school. Thanks for the help.
Sincerely,
Medeski D.
Medeski D. is a seventh grader at Goff Junior High School with Mr. Gilmore's fourth-period class. Information can be sent to him at 974 Newport Ave. Pawtucket, RI 02861
__________________________________________________________________________________
To whom it may concern:
I want to take this opportunity to thank you for reading this letter and the letters of my students. The project they are working on can be a tremendous success with your help and the help of your readers.
Let me take a minute to tell you about our school and students. Pawtucket, Rhode Island is an urban school district founded in the birth place of the mill industry with the first, water powered mill. Slater Mill is not more than a five minute walk from our school. Like any urban school district, Pawtucket has its share of challenges. Roughly about 80 percent of our students qualify for the free or reduced lunch program. However, Goff Junior High School is classified as being a typical junior high school in the state of Rhode Island. This is a rating given by the state for schools that are making progress and moving in the right direction educationally. The students here at Goff take an active interest in school and responsibility for their studies.
By publishing their letter and hopefully your readers' response, they will be able to produce a written report, poster board and oral presentation.
Hopefully when you decide to publish the students letter I am requesting an edition in the mail or be notified when it will run so I could look at your online edition. It would be greatly appreciated. Thank you for your time and help in providing a worth while and rewarding project experience for my students.
Sincerely,
Brian Gilmore
Brian Gilmore is a seventh grade geography teacher at Goff Junior High School in Pawtucket, Rhode Island. He may be reached at gilmoreb@psdri.net.
(10/26/14 12:00pm)
A child races through his front yard, trips and falls.
He pauses and begins to cry from the minor pain and shock of the earth beneath his knees.
His mother races to soothe her child, brushing him off saying, "It's just dirt."
Soil is never just dirt, and the Soil Judging Team will be the first to vouch for that.
Last week, the team sent seven students to the regional soil judging competition in Clemson, South Carolina.
After three days of practice judging and a day of serious competing, Auburn was declared the regional champion out of 12 universities Oct. 9.
Jenna Platt, senior in crop, soil and environmental sciences, placed sixth out of 76 students competing in the region.
"Soil judging is exciting," Platt said. "It's made my college experience infinitely better, and the field work is really fun. I spend time with my professors and classmates actually doing field science and get to apply what I've learned in the books."
While judging soil sounds tedious or unnecessary to most, Platt said learning to classify soil can change your life - even if it doesn't play a role in your future career plans.
"Everything interacts with the soil, from the building you're in to the road you're driving on," Platt said. "Some is better for farming and other for building. Soil affects everyone in some way, and soils are an integral part of understanding nature and the environment."
Platt said she and her teammates meet as a class once per week, and spent several hours studying different soil concepts to prepare for regionals.
A different university hosts the regional contest each year, which gives the team new soil to classify at each competition - most of which they've never seen before.
"We get three days to practice judging the soil at regionals," Platt said. "All of a sudden, there's added concepts you have to learn because you're in a foreign place handling foreign soil. It can be nerve wracking, but that's what those three days are for. You practice to understand what you're dealing with."
This year, the team won its second regional championship in the last four years. The top five teams in the region head to nationals.
Nationals will be held at the University of Arkansas in the spring.
Platt said as a senior, she's excited to compete in her last nationals contest and give it her all alongside her friends on the team.
Kristen Pegues, senior in crop soil and environmental sciences, placed third out of 76 participants at the regional competition.
Pegues said she was beyond ecstatic to place in the top 10, but even with the success, there's nothing like the relationships she's made through the soil judging team.
"We're with each other throughout the week and then at competitions we're with each other all day long for almost a week," Pegues said. "When you're working together like that, you form this special bond. It's great how we're able to have our time to focus and our time to joke around and have fun."
Pegues said she knows the relationships strengthen how the team performs in the field.
"Soil judging with teammates that are also my close friends allows for less stress," Pegues said. "We're out there to represent Auburn University, and this year I'm proud to have represented the University so well."
Pegues said being part of the team has made her confident she's in the right field.
"The team has allowed me to be out in the field, see it firsthand, touch it and feel it," Pegues said. "Most of the time we have our nose in a textbook, but this has been a great way to be out doing it - not just reading about it in theory."
The team is taking a break for the remainder of the semester, but will reconvene in January to prepare for nationals in the spring.
"I still can't believe we're champions, and while we feel good about our success, our work is far from over," Pegues said. "We beat the other four schools in our region that are going to nationals once, but now there's a clean slate. They'll step it up, and that's extra pressure on us and Dr. Shaw, our coach, to do the same."
Joey Shaw, professor of soil science, has been leading the soil judging team for 17 years.
Shaw said while he's been there to guide them, the students worked hard on their own merit.
"I wasn't surprised when we got champions because the students worked for it," Shaw said. "They're very smart and extremely intelligent, and they've developed the confidence in the calls they make on the field. I'm proud of them, and want others to know what soil judging entails."
Shaw said Auburn has a long tradition of soil judging, and has been a leader in the science for more than 50 years. Most participants are crop soil majors, but the team is open to all students.
"We welcome any student that wants to be involved," Shaw said. "While it's not common to get students from other departments, we'll teach them everything they need to know because soil is critical to every facet of life."
Platt and Pegues are among a group of graduating seniors who will leave the team in May.
"We'll be leaving the team in good hands," Platt said without hesitating. "We have some younger people, but they're extremely smart. Next year, it will be an entirely new team, but I'm confident they'll do great without us upperclassmen."
Shaw said teaching soil judging to students of all ages is vital for the future of the environment.
"Soil is our most precious natural resource, and we need to be stewards of the land," Shaw said. "Soils transcend all land uses, and I believe as a team, we understand that. This success is a testament to the students and I can't say enough about them. They earned absolutely everything they achieved."
(10/27/14 1:30pm)
Main idea: Though I agree with Emma Watson, a certain understanding of feminism can lead to a breakdown of the wait 'til marriage before having sex rule, which hurts our ability to have a long-term, fulfilling, committed love relationships.
I'm not backlashing against the movement for sure; I'm in favor of it. I do believe that men and women should have equal rights and opportunities, and therefore, I am a feminist. The rates of domestic violence against women, the common-ness of eating disorders among teenage girls, and the conversations I've had with women about how self-conscious they were or are as teenagers, are all awful things, and they make me pretty sad. I applaud Emma Watson for making a move against such things. I try to make this sort of move in my daily life.
However, feminism seems to be identified with a breakdown of the wait 'til marriage rule. To cite a few examples, in Watson's speech, she said, "It is the thesis that I have the right to make decisions about my own body." I assume she is referring to abortion, but often, this is also understood to mean that women should be encouraged to have sex outside of marriage. Or in an online article written awhile ago entitled "18 Things Women Shouldn't Have to Justify," one of the things was "Whether or not they're having sex, and to what degree." One more; in "Flawless," the non-Beyonce voice says, "We teach girls that they cannot be sexual beings in the way that boys are."
To clarify, Beyonce's line is vague, but I think she means it should be OK for women to have non-marital sex, just like it is for men. If that's what she means, I'm saying that it shouldn't be cool for men either. Additionally, I do not mean that women or men should be shamed, like classified as morally bad, impure or less valuable for having sex outside of marriage. This is such a common problem among people who hold the wait 'til marriage view; though no one makes anyone wear an actual scarlet letter anymore, the "shameful and impure" stigma for men and women who have sex outside of marriage is very alive and well, deeply wounding women and men every day.
All I want to suggest is in most circumstances, it is terribly sad, not bad, not morally shameful when a man or woman has extra-marital sex and in doing so, compromises their ability to enjoy a lifelong committed love relationship. I want to emphasize that I use the word compromise here, rather than destroy. An explanation of why sex outside of marriage compromises our ability to have a fulfilling long-term love relationship would take many pages; I believe it has to do with what it means to be a person in a human body. All I want to say here is that many of the people who have the kind of happy, fulfilling life that we want believe in waiting. It is no accident or coincidence that the two go hand in hand.
To conclude: Watson's feminist thesis, "Women and men should have equal rights and opportunities" does not imply that men or women should have sex before marriage.
(10/22/14 1:30pm)
As the temperature drops, the amount of clothing increases. Thicker socks, longer pants, warmer tops, bulky sweaters, fingerless gloves, which I still don't understand, and hats are all fashion pieces that could make a statement but also serve the purpose of keeping us warm.
To some, this is an exciting time because this wardrobe change means their favorite season is upon us or because colder weather means Christmas is closer. With the changing season, people do look different in their fall get-ups, but I don't think anyone looks more different than men around this time of year.
That is because guys can change more than just the clothes they wear on their bodies. They can change the hair they grow on their faces.
In a few weeks, it will be November, and males around the country will be participating in No-Shave November, a pledge to refrain from shaving for one month.
People abstain from shaving for various reasons throughout the year. Men who are superstitious about their sports teams and won't shave until they lose often sport the playoff beard. No-Shave November serves different purposes for people and is specific to this one month.
Some participate out of laziness. Others participate because it gives them a reason to try out facial hair, and some withhold from shaving for charity. Money that would be used for shaving supplies for one month goes toward another cause. The American Cancer Society is an organization that benefits from No-Shave November.
It serves multiple purposes. November is a good time for men to pledge not to shave their faces because it comes just in time for colder weather, as the extra layer of hair warms the faces of the participants. The beard can also be used as a fashion statement. They go well with flannels and beanies this time of year.
Considering November does not start for another few weeks, men might keep their faces clean-shaven until the 30-day period begins to see how much hair they can grow in that time.
If you notice more beards next month though, it's probably people participating in No-Shave November. You could even ask someone his reason behind his facial hair because it might be more charitable than you think.
(10/22/14 3:00pm)
The way Calvin Wagner tells it, cars of the future won't run primarily on gas. They'll mostly be hybrids or entirely electric.
Wagner, senior in electrical engineering, is captain of Auburn's Formula Society of Automotive Engineers Electric Car Team. The Formula SAE Electric Team is a group of 20 students, mostly engineers, who are building Auburn's first student-made electric drag racing car.
The program is one of two in the SEC, according to Peter Jones, Woltosz War Eagle Motor Sports professor.
The club began with preliminary meetings in December 2013. David Sweet, team member and senior in mechanical engineering, said the first official meeting was not until January.
(10/22/14 12:00pm)
From the time she was a little girl, Savannah Goldsmith loved to sing.
She would ride in the car with her mother singing "Amazing Grace," and let the lyrics play across her lips with a smile.
Years later, the lyrics hold a deeper meaning as she sings and acts her heart out on stage.
The words have become an encouragement as Goldsmith, former sophomore in musical theatre, arrived at Auburn and took the theatre department by storm.
As a freshman, she snagged the lead role in the fall production of the literary classic "Hedda Gabler" - her first show with the University.
Goldsmith took her final bow as Hedda Gabler on Friday Oct. 3, and one week later, packed up her dorm room and walked as a student on Auburn's campus for the last time.
Oct. 10 was Goldsmith's last day enrolled as a musical theatre major. With the support of her family, friends and talent agent, she left to pursue her acting career - but not in musical theatre.
"I love theatre and I've done it for many years, but now that I've majored in it, I realize that film acting is where I want to be," Goldsmith said. "I'd also like to record a music album, but being in films is what I'd love to do."
At 19 years old, Goldsmith already has her foot in the door of the film industry.
In the past few years, she was an extra in TV shows such as "Devious Maids" and "Necessary Roughness" and films such as "The Watch," but this summer, her career took a promising step forward.
In June, Goldsmith starred as the female lead in "Cobragator," a horror, sci-fi flick set to air on the Syfy channel in January.
In "Cobragator," Goldsmith plays Aubrey, a member of a punk rock band who goes to a swamp to film a music video and encounters a genetically mutated reptile - the cobragator.
"Reservoir Dogs" star Michael Madsen was also part of the sci-fi action, and worked with Goldsmith throughout the film.
After "Cobragator" was complete, several talent agencies reached out to Goldsmith and asked her to participate in several movies and film projects.
"Once these agencies began contacting me, I figured this would be a good time for me to go to Atlanta for a few years and see what can become of it," Goldsmith explained. "I want to try and build my resume, and see if I can move to L.A. from there."
After "Cobragator," Goldsmith said she really caught the fever to be on screen.
"It was the best experience of my life," Goldsmith said. "I know without a doubt it's what I want to do."
Within the next few weeks, Goldsmith will film commercials to be aired in the tri-state area and audition for roles in many different films.
Goldsmith said she's happy to finally be doing what she loves.
"I've always struggled being happy with myself from a really young age," Goldsmith said. "Acting gives me a way to be somebody else for a little while and not have to think about me and my life. It's a personal escape that gives me the chance to become someone else for a little while."
Goldsmith said her talent agent, Donna Hovey, owner of Rare Quality Models and Talent, has opened many doors for her career and has helped it take off.
Hovey said she only submits Goldsmith's resume, and the actresses' hard work and talent does the rest.
"I expect her to be well on her way to a successful acting career in three years because she works for it," Hovey said. "She has this star quality - this rare talent you just can't teach. After 25 years in the business, you just know it when you see it, and Savannah's got it."
Hovey said she felt Goldsmith's talent when she met her when she was14. Hovey has represented Goldsmith ever since.
"I love Donna because her agency is smaller, and she's very personable," Goldsmith said. "She came on set when I was filming 'Cobragator,' and even talked to the director. The best part is, she shares my Christian faith and understands my morals."
Goldsmith said that, while she'd be part of a non-Christian agency, she plans to hold strong to her conservative beliefs in a liberal industry.
"It's getting harder and harder to keep the bad out," Hovey said. "But even so, there's enough out there that we'll be able to skip the projects that wouldn't work for us, and still make it work."
When Hovey heard her client was dropping out of school, she said she thought it was for the best.
"It will make her more available for auditions, and at this point, that's what matters," Hovey said. "She's going with her gut, and that's what's important. Ultimately, this was Savannah's decision, and because it's in her heart, that's what's going to make it work."
A few days after dropping out, Goldsmith said there's not a doubt in her mind she made the right choice.
"I'm so relieved to be gone," Goldsmith said. "I definitely made the right decision because I'm ready to go head first into my dream."
While many parents would balk at their child dropping out to follow an acting career, Goldsmith's mother, Kelli Hunt, has been nothing but supportive.
"I support her decision 100 percent," Hunt said without pause. "You have to get out there while you're in your prime. You have your whole life to go back to school if you need to. I just want her to get out there and make a go of it."
Like Hovey, Hunt said her daughter has the drive and talent to make a living from her passions of acting and singing.
'Savannah played the Wicked Witch in a fifth grade play called 'The Road to Oz,' and I knew it was her calling ever since," Hunt said. "When she hits the stage, she just becomes someone else, and I know it's what she's meant to do. That's why I want her to be happy and follow her heart."
Like most parents, Hunt said she's proud of the success Goldsmith had with "Hedda Gabler" and "Cobragator," but wants others to know it wasn't easy getting there.
"Savannah doesn't get anything handed to her," Hunt said. "If she is successful, it's because she's earned it. She has natural talent, but she's earned that, too."
Hunt said she hopes her daughter's strong morals and work ethic will be a good influence on the Hollywood scene if Goldsmith is meant to make it that far.
"I'm a mother, so of course I worry," Hunt said. "No matter what, I'm going to be there for her and make sure things are all right, but I've done my part. She's God's child, and she's in his care now."
Hovey said she's confident Goldsmith has the support and talent she needs to make it, and advises those who share her dreams to follow a similar path.
"You just have to go for it," Hovey said. "This is Savannah's gift. You have to find out if this is yours. You have to follow your dreams no matter how crazy or angry it makes your parents. Even if it doesn't work out, at least you'll know."
Goldsmith said she's overjoyed with how far things are looking up for her future.
"I'm so excited about this new chapter in my life," Goldsmith said. "I can't wait to see where it's going to take me. Fame would be great, but as long as I'm happy and doing what I love, that's all I can ask for."
(10/16/14 11:00pm)
If you have ever said "Do I look fat in this" or "I feel fat today," listen up. The Auburn University Body Image Education and Eating Disorder Awareness (Aubie EDA) organization is raising awareness of the use of "fat talk" by hosting Fat Talk Free Week on October 20-24.
Fat Talk Free Week is an international campaign whose purpose is to bring awareness to body image issues and eating disorders. The event focuses on damaging affect of an ideal woman (or man) that the media displays.
Each day of the week will challenge Auburn students -- men and women -- to end the use of fat talk and make a positive impact on campus. With themed days including Friends Don't Let Friends Fat Talk, To Love the Skin You're In, Operation Beautiful, Wear the Hashtag #FTFW and Fat Talk Free Friday, Aubie EDA will have different activities and events for students to participate in on the concourse.
Meg McGuffin, senior in media studies, serves as the president of Aubie EDA.
"The purpose of the event is to educate people on what exactly 'fat talk' is," McGuffin said. "You don't even realize that you do it."
According to McGuffin, fat talk is talking about your own or someone else's body or looks in a negative manner.
"I think most people say something negative about their bodies at least once a day," McGuffin said.
She said she encourages students to not only stop using it, but to provide accountability to their peers who use fat talk.
"Honestly I have just always felt very strongly about the way the media portrays women's bodies," McGuffin said. "We should be viewed as beautiful because of our accomplishments and the ways we serve others, not the way we look."
She said she grew up as a dancer and was always in front of mirrors where she and her friends were "constantly comparing ourselves to each other."
While McGuffin said she has never struggled with an eating disorder, she said she has watched multiple of her friends suffer.
This is the second year that Aubie EDA has hosted Auburn's Fat Talk Free Week and it is hoped that students will understand ways to better avoid using fat talk, according to McGuffin.
"It has definitely established an awareness of fat talk," McGuffin said. "People look forward to it."
She said she realizes that students who struggle with an eating disorder feel alone, but she encourages them to seek help.
"The reason they feel alone is because we don't openly discuss it," McGuffin said.
Kate, an Auburn student who preferred not to use her real name because of her disorder, said that she is guilty of using fat talk against herself.
"I think that seeing other girls who struggle with this and want to combat it," Kate said. "It's a successful movement for sure."
Kate's battle with anorexia began when she was a sophomore in high school.
"I guess I realized that I gained a lot of weight and was not a certain size," Kate said.
She said that she became obsessed with comparison and counting calories, even to the extent of researching restaurant menus hours before going to eat.
"I could probably tell you all about the calories in meals from chain restaurants," Kate said. "It definitely affected me mentally and physically."
Kate said she has overcome the disorder, but that she still struggles with body image.
"It has been a process," Kate said. "It still haunts me."
Kate said she now realizes how much the use of fat talk affects people and is hopeful that the Fat Talk Free Week will raise awareness.
"I hope it will raise understanding that whenever you say things, words affect you," Kate said. "And whenever you change the way you look at others, you change the way you look at yourself."
Being someone who is on the other side of an eating disorder, Kate said she encourages students to realize that "we are fearfully and wonderfully made." She said she understands that not everyone shares her beliefs, but she knows that everyone wants to believe they have a purpose.
"You harming your body does nothing to reach that potential," Kate said. "Surround yourself with life-giving people who will support you and hold you accountable for how you treat your body."
Kate said she thinks Fat Talk Free Week is a "great tool and it makes me proud of my school that we can come together and support this."
Dr. Annette Kluck, associate professor in counseling psychology, trains psychology students and researches the risk factors of eating disorders.
"They have really devastating effects," Kluck said. "It causes students to miss out on the college experience."
According to Kluck, she has never personally struggled with an eating disorder, but she is well aware of the effects of fat talk.
"I think it's important that we raise awareness about the effects of fat talk," Kluck said. "Fat talk makes weight and size seem like the most important things."
Kluck said that it is not uncommon for people to hear fat talk and then begin using against themselves, but that she is hopeful that the event will shed light on this.
"These events are designed to be a first step," Kluck said.
For more information on Fat Talk Free Week, visit here.
(10/16/14 4:00pm)
Nathan Coker, senior in fine arts, strummed his guitar as music blasted from the amplifier behind him.
Without a word, Ryan Blackwell, junior in mechanical engineering, joined in playing trumpet. Blackwell wore a sweater with a black bow tie and four-color socks. He rocked back and forth slightly as he played.
Corey Spicer, senior in interdisciplinary studies, joined in on drums. Spicer had just put on a green shirt, covering the tattoo on his chest of the Greek word "agape."
One by one, the band's other members began playing as well. Their sounds came together in one unified rhythm.
The music filled the room all the way to its green-painted walls and slanted wooden roof. It bounced between the unused piano and the four-foot pedals Coker had daisy-chained to his guitar, only to run around the dozen-odd instrument cases strewn on the floor.
The band's playing intensified as the song drew to a close. There was a half-beat of silence, then every member played to accompany a long blast from Blackwell's trumpet.
Once the music stopped, temporary bassist Mitch McKoy took a swig from his Corona Light. Spicer's dog Chessie wandered between the instruments.
"That's hot," Coker said, pleased with the music. "H-A-W-T."
Coker is the namesake of The Nathan Coker Band, a local music group. Though the band has been together for less than a year, its members want to see where the band goes.
"We'll probably get some more recording time in, put the demo out there and see where it goes," Blackwell said.
The way Spicer tells it, The Nathan Coker Band began after Spicer and original bassist Jimi Greene saw Coker play and were impressed with his talent.
"We got together and jammed, and started writing some drum and base parts to his acoustic songs," Spicer said.
Coker said he began learning guitar at 19 after being inspired listening to John Mayer.
"(It's) really funny, because I listened to a lot of hip-hop growing up," Coker said. "Gucci Mayne was a huge influence on me."
Despite his roots in hip-hop, Coker described the band's music as soul.
"Soul music is a broad term, so I try not to limit myself with restrictive genre names," Coker said. "The music I'm trying to make is sincere, and when I think of sincere music I think of a lot of soul artists."
Jayson Perry, senior in mechanical engineering, called their music "free-form fusion."
"We don't have anything written down," Perry said. "We just kinda feel it."
Perry, who plays saxophone, said Nathan Coker Band members enjoy improvising riffs during performances.
"We improve a lot of our licks," Perry said. "We try to add stuff, but not be too crazy about it."
Perry said after enough live shows, everyone in the band is used to each others' styles enough to handle the improvisation.
According to Blackwell, The Nathan Coker Band plays two or three shows per month, with practices clustered before performances.
One of the best shows so far, according to Coker, was a friend's house party where they played for only 20 people.
"Everybody got on their feet and was right there," Coker said. "The pressure of having to perform for a certain budget wasn't there, and it was all fun."
Blackwell said there are opportunities for new groups in what Spicer called a "growing music scene."
"Anybody who's looking to start a band in Auburn, just have the passion to do it and the wherewithal to sit there and practice because it takes a while," Blackwell said. "It's about putting yourself out there."
(10/21/14 4:00pm)
You won't learn your most important rhyme in nursery school.
Ring before spring is the gold standard for many college men and women. There is a massive push to be married by the time the college years are over. People seem to be getting engaged left and right.
Slow down, everyone.
Take some time to enjoy being single. It is a great time to reflect and figure out the best course for your life, academically, socially and any other path you want to take.
Don't get me wrong, I am not against relationships. I have been in long-term relationships in college and they were great. I grew as a person and learned how to treat others. I met lots of interesting people and made friendships I still cherish. Those relationships were great, but it's time for a new season of life, one I am still learning how to embrace.
Being single is scary. Some people feel totally alone, and no one will come to your aid. That could not be further from the truth.
Finding a community that will provide unconditional support can be a daunting task, but is the most rewarding thing you can do. Go out to the next O-Days and grab some fliers. You could be meeting the people who push your truck across the road.
I am very new at being single. It has been eye-opening. I have invested in my future, through activities and cementing lasting friendships. I have bonded with some amazing people over the last couple months. I became involved in groups I might not have tried out otherwise.
True love is a beautiful thing. I see it every day all over campus, but I also see people who are forcing relationships.
Do not date someone to avoid being alone. It hurts everyone involved, even those you don't know about. Face your fears, whether they are being alone or of the unknown. If nothing else, you have more time to invest in a new hobby or series on Netflix.
Relationships are a wonderful thing. But sometimes they don't last forever. If you find yourself single, embrace it and love yourself. A piece of wisdom I heard somewhere said you should be comfortable as a single person before you go out to find your husband or wife.
In the midst of proposals, sparkly rings and candlelight ceremonies it can be hard to not give up and become a hermit. But it's OK if you don't find Mr. or Mrs. Right before graduation. You're not doing anything wrong, I'm sure it's not because you stepped on the seal by Langdon Hall. Get involved, make new friends and enjoy being single.
Maria McIlwain is the assistant copy editor at The Plainsman. She can be reached at copy@theplainsman.com
(10/16/14 6:00pm)
In the midst of class, tests and deadlines, slowing down and enjoying a meal has become a lost art.
In today's culture, eating at a greasy fast food chain is the easy way out. Auburn gives students the opportunity to have quality ingredients at fast-food speed. Any self-proclaimed foodie, such as myself, will tell you it is more about what you are eating, not where you are eating.
As an avid cook and meal planner, I typically try to do my homework on what is in season, and then use that to navigate my order at a restaurant.
In October, keep an eye out for sweet potatoes, butternut squash, pumpkin and broccoli. Those are a few of the in-season vegetables many restaurants may offer as they become available.
Vegetarians and vegans alike have jumped on the foodie train, as they are rely more heavily on quality ingredients. Vegetarians and vegans depend on natural foods with protein, such as beans and nuts, to sustain their energy. On campus, there are restaurants that can meet your needs.
Auburn's dining services are taking leaps and bounds to serve local ingredients and produce from Lee County. Students, jump on this offer.
Eating local cuts out the middleman, which in some cases is a corporate manufacturer adding preservatives to food. Foodies thrive on local, natural ingredients because gourmet meals consist of fresh flavors.
One of the latest trends is farm-to-table dining. Eating food grown in our region has never been easier or better for you. Farmers' markets are booming and restaurants are hearing the cry for fresh and local foods.
Auburn's Campus Dining started the Eat Local campaign as an awareness to students that eating local has many benefits in flavor and in one's health. It was created to educate students on the importance of eating fresh and local while supporting the community around us.
However, no one said eating well was necessarily good to your credit card. There is a price to pay if you want to indulge in quality ingredients. Fortunately, Auburn gives students a generous allowance to play with. Especially the on-campus dwellers. With $995 per semester, on-campus students are not going to go hungry.
For commuting students, such as myself, we have to be a little more conscientious of where our dollar is being spent. With $300 per semester on our Tiger Card meal plan, we are given less wiggle room to splurge. That being said, creativity is key in deciding what to eat.
From make-your-own sushi to smoothie trucks, Auburn's campus dining services does not fall short. Next time you are feeling adventurous, try something new and support your local farmers.
(10/14/14 6:00pm)
What was a hipster move has turned into a mainstream trend. Contrary to popular belief, the hipster style is more than flannel, flower crowns and high-waist shorts.
"I would define a hipster as someone that makes it a personal goal not to be the norm," said Sarah Hagale, senior in graphic design.
She said she believes the stereotypical hipster style includes statement pieces such as thick-rimmed glasses, flannel, skinny jeans and graphic tees.
"I think some people think that it's trying too hard," Hagale said. "I really think it's just people expressing themselves."
Hagale said she would not consider herself a hipster, and that her closet consists of a limited color palette of black, blue, white and grey.
"I appreciate a good hipster," Hagale said, "but I don't think any hipster would call themselves a hipster."
Hagal said she recognizes the hipster trend is one that has recently become popular and goes against what she would define as a hipster. Hagale encourages students to be themselves.
"I would encourage other students to dress the way they feel comfortable," Hagale said. "You shouldn't be so affected by a trend that you think about it more than important things."
Chandler Roberds, senior in human development and family studies, works at Wake Up Coffee Company.
"I see a lot of the weird haircuts and facial hair like rugged and unkempt beards and mustaches," Roberds said.
According to Roberds, a hipster is "an individual that is wanting to be ahead of the mainstream." He describes the hipster style as trendy, independent, cutting edge and going against the grain.
In addition to the haircuts and facial hair, Roberds said he sees a lot of thrift-store bought clothing and skinny jeans, which he believes to be part of the hipster trend.
Although he said he is definitely not a hipster, Roberds said he recognizes it is a current trend.
"Maybe it's because it's new and we tend to gravitate toward new styles and clothes," Roberds said. "And it's cheaper."
Pamela Ulrich, professor in consumer and design sciences, teaches fashion from the 1910s to the present.
"I would think (hipster) is a word that has been used in different ways over time," Ulrich said.
According to Ulrich, in the 1940s, musicians' style was described as being hipster. In the 60s, popular hip-hugging pants defined hipster style. Recently, the hipster style is related to urban lifestyle and associated with young people, according to Ulrich.
"Fashion is a style that is accepted at some point in time by a group of people," Ulrich said.
After researching what the modern hipster style consists of, Ulrich said, the trend looks like hipsters are trying to be anti-fashion.
She said she doesn't see her students dressed in what she believes to be their personal fashion.
As a professor, Ulrich said she does not influence what students wear.
"Nobody in our program encourages people to dress in a certain way," Ulrich said. "Our job is to analyze it."
Whether it fits into a trend or goes against the norm in true hipster fashion, individual style serves as another way for students to express themselves.
(10/21/14 12:00pm)
Nuns are coming to this part of the Bible Belt, and this time, it's not to scold you - it's to make you laugh.
On Oct. 23, the comedic musical "Nunsense" will open at Telfair Peet Theatre at 7:30 p.m.
"Nunsense," directed by professor Dan LaRocque, features a cast of five students who portray the Little Sisters of Hoboken. When 52 nuns in their convent are poisoned with botulism in potato soup prepared by their cook, the sisters need money to cover the burials. To raise the funds, they put on a variety show.
"What ensues is a funny and very entertaining evening of comedy, song, and dance," LaRocque said. "It's made the show a popular hit around the country for the last 30 years."
LaRocque, a big fan of the show, said it's impossible to pick out a scene that's funnier or more entertaining than the rest.
"It's sort of like being asked as a parent who your favorite child is - they're all favorites, but for different reasons," LaRocque said. "There are so many funny scenes and songs in the show, and I know our audiences will agree."
"Nunsense" will be the first production performed in the new black box theater - part of the newly constructed addition to Telfair Peet Theatre.
LaRocque said "Nunsense" is the perfect show to inaugurate the more intimate theatrical experience for the audience.
"The show itself is vastly entertaining," LaRocque said. "But the energy and enthusiasm our students exhibit is what makes this production so much fun to come and see."
Kathleen O'Hara, senior in musical theatre, plays the Reverend Mother.
O'Hara said it's been fun to play a character who's in her 60s and wear a fat suit while doing it.
"This past summer, I got to play Elle Woods in 'Legally Blonde,' so this character has been a big change from that," O'Hara said. "She's this crazy, funny nun and she's become a big part of me."
O'Hara said the Reverend Mother isn't the type of role she's used to playing.
"It's a whole new experience for me," O'Hara said. "It'll be new for students too, but I think they'll really enjoy it. There's a scene where the Reverend Mother picks up a bottle of 'Rush,' an inhalant, and gets high after a few sniffs. It's hilarious and students will love it."
While it will be the first show in the new theatre, O'Hara and other actors agree "Nunsense" will be memorable for its hilarious element of improvisation.
"It's a very audience-oriented show," O'Hara said. "Many of the lines we say are improvised, and depend on how the audience reacts. You'll never see the same show twice."
Hannah Rae Faulk, junior in musical theatre, plays Sister Hubert, the Reverend Mother's right-hand woman.
"She's this sassy nun who works hard, but never gets recognized for it," Faulk said. "She really enjoys the variety show the sisters put on. Throughout the show, you really see the heart of Hubert."
Faulk said students will enjoy "Nunsense" because it's different from other shows the theatre department has put on before - and not because it's about a group of comedic nuns.
"Here in the Bible Belt, many people grew up religious," Faulk said. "They'll enjoy it purely because it pokes fun at that. They'll laugh along with humor they've grown up with."
The hours of rehearsal have been tiring, but Faulk said strong relationships with the other cast members have made all the difference.
"We're like a family," Faulk said. "We were already friends, but this show has pushed us out of our comfort zones and bonded us in ways I could never have imagined."
O'Hara said the small cast of five women has made it a special experience.
"Since there's only five of us, we're all on the same playing field," O'Hara said. "Everyone has lots of lines and dance numbers, so there's no competition. Even when we're exhausted and strung out, we cut up all the time because we just love each other."
Faulk said whether you're religious or not, the show is relatable for everyone.
"'Nunsense' shows the heart of so many different types of people and each nun can relate to some person in the audience," Faulk said. "Nuns celebrate everyone. They talk about different people's religions and celebrate it with them. It's very celebratory of people having hope in something bigger than themselves."
"Nunsense" will be performed most weeknights at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 2:30 p.m. until Nov. 2.
Tickets are free to students, and can be reserved through the theater department. Visit http://cla.auburn.edu/theatre/student-tickets/ to reserve a ticket.
(10/10/14 2:45am)
Robyn Ochs, author and bisexual activist, explained the spectrum of sexuality to Auburn students.
Ochs, author of "Getting Bi: Voices of Bisexuals Around the World," said sexual orientation is a spectrum of different identities -- not just straight or gay.
She also said she hopes different gender identities and sexual orientations will become so accepted that they won't even merit discussing.
"I want sexual orientation to change in the same way where it becomes boring and not a big deal, like being left-handed," Ochs said. "I want to get to where sexual orientation is not seen as toxic or dangerous or a threat to the family, just as something that you are."
Ochs spoke on Oct. 9 in Lowder Hall to a group of students.
The activist said in her 38 years of being "out," American society and even LBGT culture has radically changed.
"When I first came out... there was a really strong, rigid code of behavior, and that has changed so much," Ochs said. "I like that."
Ochs said she likes watching the spread of different labels and ways of thinking about sexuality that break from the mold of gay or straight.
"People are a lot more comfortable with the idea of identity being not as fixed," Ochs said.
She applauded the growing diversity of ideas within the LBGT community and increasing acceptance of LBGT issues within the nation at large.
"When I woke up Monday morning and got on a plane to Detroit, this country had marriage equality in 19 states," Ochs said. "When I got off the plane two hours later, it was legal in 24."
Brandy Smith, diversity coordinator of Student Counseling Services, said she attended the talk to see how it could help improve diversity on campus.
"I think it helps by even having the talk on campus because with regards to sexual orientation and gender identity, we still have a ways to go on our campus," Smith said. "It will help people be more aware."
Megan Reynolds, senior in French, said the event was important to her as a bisexual and member of Spectrum, Auburn's LBGT rights group.
"(Bisexuality) is an identity that's erased more than lesbian and gay identities," Reynolds said. "Gay people and lesbian people are often not accepted, but (their identities) are not words that people misunderstand in the same way people misunderstand bisexuality."
Reynolds said she has encountered people who confuse bisexuality, sexual attraction to men and women, with polyamory. Polyamory is the practice of having multiple sexual partners, all of which consent to the arrangement.
"When I came out to my mother, who's incredibly tolerant and incredibly understanding, she could not process the idea of being bisexual as something that was separate from a polyamorous identity," Reynolds said. "Since then I've experienced it other times, but that was the most striking because it came from a person who had otherwise been so understanding."
Ochs is a bisexual who celebrated Massachusett's legalization of gay marriage by marrying her wife within an hour of the law taking effect.
Ochs ended her speech by asking audience members to help spread awareness and understanding of LBGT issues.
"I want to call on every LBGT person, as well as all the straight people in this room to make that happen," Ochs said. "I really want all of us to come together."
(10/09/14 10:30pm)
In this week's episode of Hell's Kitchen, Auburn's Fernando Cruz is still competing. In the first half, the teams must cook protein-and-starch dishes. In the latter part, they have a VIP guest list, including Olympic and NHL athletes. Chef Ramsay is especially short-tempered with the chefs this week. "I don't even think I have a winner," Ramsay said. He told them to think of two individuals they wanted to drop from the team. The boys reached an almost unanimous decision on getting rid of Sterling. The girls struggled in making the decision and went before Ramsay without deciding on the pair they wanted to lose. In the end, they nominate Katie and Rose to leave. Fernando spoke for the men and nominated Sterling and Steve to leave. Ramsay lets go of Katie, and the episode ends with a "to be continued," promising more drama for next week's episode.
(10/13/14 6:00pm)
Danielle Clow, senior in apparel merchandising and design, has followed her dream all the way from Auburn to Newport Beach, California. Danielle makes her own bathing suits and said she someday hopes to start her own clothing line.
Danielle moved to California to be closer to her boyfriend, but also to search for an internship to get credit for graduation.
Having grown up in Florida, Danielle has always loved being at the beach and in the water, especially when she was surfing.
"I was a competitive surfer, and I really have lived an ocean lifestyle my entire life," Danielle said.
Danielle's mother, Julie Clow, said Danielle started sewing with her grandmother and experimenting with bathing suit designs.
"She was surfing every weekend and spending a lot of time at the beach, so it just became as big a part of her wardrobe as the clothes she would wear to school," Julie said. "Having spent so much time in the sun, on the beach, in the water, being active, it was a huge part of who you were. But it also had a lot of functional requirements."
Danielle uses a sewing technique where seams are hidden and the material forms to the customer's body.
"I've always felt the most comfortable in a bathing suit and a lot of people have an issue with that area of their life," Danielle said. "I would love to make every woman feel amazing in a bathing suit and basically enhance their best features in their bodies and hide other features that they aren't proud of and make everybody happy and feel comfortable."
Danielle's designs are marketed toward 18-30-year-old women, with a focus on bikinis.
Danielle is currently working for a company called Solkissed, where she is helping to put together a trunk show.
Danielle made her first bathing suit sale recently, selling a bikini for $40.
Danielle does not have a website yet, but she said if she does start to take it viral she will probably use Etsy to sell her suits.
"I think she's very talented," said Paige Sorensen, friend of Danielle. "She's very up to date [and] creative."
Sorensen said Danielle is always drafting, designing and looking up things on the web to stay current.
"I've seen all her designs and drafts and everything, and they're gorgeous," Sorensen said. "She whips this stuff out so fast. She can make bikinis in no time."
According to Julie, despite Danielle's passion for fashion, it took Danielle time to understand how she could turn a hobby into a career.
"I don't think it occurred to her until she realized that she could major in fashion design, that making clothes might be a living she might want to consider," Julie said.
"She also has a real appreciation for how different peoples' bodies are and how you have to design around that."
Danielle said she loves the freedom of her major and being able to be as creative as she wants to be.
(10/10/14 7:30pm)
I've never been great at makeup. If I put on concealer and mascara, it's a good day. Eyeliner? Get outta town.
So, when I had the chance to get my makeup done by one of my favorite drag queens, I leapt at the opportunity.
Femma Nazi, otherwise known as Joey Falcon, is one of the reigning queens of The House of THC, a group of drag queens in Auburn who perform at Mama Mocha's.
Falcon is also thinking of doing makeup professionally. He said he loves doing other people's makeup, so I think we were both excited about this project.
Falcon welcomed me into his home Sunday. The makeup studio was actually an art studio, where paintings done by his roommate hung. Two cats prowled around the house while Joey painted his own artwork - my face.
For any makeup question I had, Falcon had an answer. I think I learned more in an hour in his chair than in nine years of wearing makeup.
He told me about some of his upcoming makeup looks, such as his plan to start wearing bright eyeliner colors.
"I don't know if this is actually a thing," Falcon said. "I just feel it in my soul. I'm just going to start doing crazy-color eyeliners every day of the week. Bright purple, magenta, blue, electric green..."
For eyeliner, he favors gel, brandishing a pot of black MAC gel eyeliner for my eyes.
"I just find that it has that better sharp matte-ness to it that doesn't fade away during the day," Falcon said. "I've tried the pencil ones and the liquid ones, and it's just never as black as I want it to be."
The eyeshadow accent underneath is made with a stiff brush and boldly pigmented black eye shadow.
The inspiration for the lips came from Joey experimenting with different lip colors, applying different powders on top to create a new dimension.
"I was like, 'I need to do something fresh for this. What am I going to do?'" Falcon said. "I was just sitting in the bathroom, putting on different lipsticks with powders on top, and I loved this."
The lipstick is Rebel by MAC. Joey said it's perfect for when you're feeling lazy and want to do a dramatic lip.
"It's this really deep purple, and I love it," Falcon said. "It's ridiculously sexy, but also so perfect for fall."
Joey's love of makeup is addictive, spreading out of his pores and infecting everyone involved.
"All the parts of makeup are my favorite," Falcon said. "It's just so fun to me to be like, 'I'm just going to be a different person right now.'"
It's true. I walked in, bare faced and as boring as beige wallpaper. When I left, I was transformed. After all, it's difficult to be boring when you have gold spilling from your lips. I walked into the cool October night a queen.
Rachel Davis is a community writer for The Plainsman. She can be reached via email at community@theplainsman.com.
(10/09/14 9:00pm)
To some, fashion blogging is a foreign idea, but to others, it is a way of life.
Katie Knell, junior in apparel merchandising, shows her love for life and fashion on her blog, "Lady K."
"Part of it was a calling to do it," Knell said. "To combine the fashion world and the Lord."
Knell said she started the blog Jan. 1, and used her high school nickname as the title.
She said she was inspired by her grandmother's love for accessories and thankful for how her mother educated her about fashion.
"I am a very organized person and there were months of prep work behind it," Knell said.
On her blog, Knell shares outfits complete with stylish accessories and hairstyles, but she also uses her blog to influence the fashion world.
"It can be such a materialistic place, but it really is an extension of who (God) is and his creation," Knell said.
Knell said she wants "Lady K" to be "a place that is a vulnerable approach to life and fashion."
While she uses her external influence from her blog, she said it has caused her to look inward.
"I think it has brought out a lot of the sin I was avoiding before," Knell said.
According to Knell, her blog keeps her "continually evolving" and creatively flowing. However, she said juggling life as a student and blogger is challenging at times.
"There are weeks when I am so creatively stimulated, but logistically, your schedule won't allow it," Knell said. "I try to stay ahead of the game."
Knell said she believes her hard work will benefit her in the future. For instance, Knell said she has made a number of connections through "Lady K" with photographers and company Like To Know It, which connects bloggers to professional retail.
"I am trying to apply what I am learning in a tangible way," Knell said. "I hope it shows that I took initiative even as a student."
Knell said she hopes to monetize her blogging in order to travel and expand her resources in order to improve "Lady K."
Knell said she represents Auburn in her blog by "reflecting the Auburn community by applying what (she) is learning" as a student.
She said she encourages people to go above and beyond their limits and to be bold with fashion.
According to Knell, her perfect outfit is "anything that's all black with some killer shoes."
Karla Teel, associate professor in the department of consumer and design sciences, said she loves the "Lady K" blog, as well as Knell's outfit choices.
"I think it's very simple, but very visual," Teel said. "She does a really good job of pulling it all together and creating a cohesive look."
According to Teel, Knell's work exemplifies the program's hopes for students.
Teel said she tries to produce well-rounded students familiar with the industry.
"We encourage students to do whatever they are comfortable with," Teel said. "It shows employers that our students have knowledge and are good at it."
Teel said she is proud of students, such as Knell, who represent Auburn and work hard to achieve their dreams.
"Not everyone takes it upon themselves to do extra work," Teel said. "She has taken it upon herself to go above and beyond."
