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BrainSTEM guides neurodivergent students to success

College is a notoriously difficult transitional period for young adults because of a mix of increased responsibilities, rigorous studies and a sense of newfound independence. BrainSTEM is a new student organization at Auburn University that seeks to assist all neurodivergent students, who may especially struggle during this transition, with achieving their goals, while providing a community consisting of other self-identifying neurodivergent students.

Football players in white jerseys interact with enthusiastic fans reaching over a barrier, celebrating a victorious moment in a stadium at night.

Auburn's culture of away games

By Margaret Griffin | Lifestyle Writer | November 20

For Auburn students, away games are more than a weekend trip – they’re a ritual. Students plan their fall schedules around the football season, as flocks of students pack their cars to get ready for game days across the Southeast. No matter if a game is home or away, Auburn students bring the same loyalty, passion and sense of belonging everywhere they go. The trip might be long and the city may look different, but the feeling remains the same. There is no doubt that Auburn fans show up for their team and for each other.

GrubHub sign captured in the Chick-fil-A in the Auburn Student Center.

Auburn Campus Dining adapts to students' wants

By Amelia Gatzke | Lifestyle Writer | November 17

When it comes to the college student experience, it is safe to say that food is a huge part of it. Auburn University has a variety of options, from dining halls like The Edge to on-campus chain restaurants like Chick-fil-A and Panda Express. However, despite the positives, students and staff alike feel like Auburn's dining options have room for improvement.

Santa Claus sits on a chair surrounded by poinsettias, with a campus backdrop and people walking by.

Christmas countdown with Auburn's Letters to Santa program

By Lorelei Young | Lifestyle Writer | November 17

With the holidays rapidly approaching, excitement is ramping up for Auburn’s unique Christmas traditions that celebrate community and spread joy through various events. Among the most popular is Letters to Santa, a program that allows children from Auburn and surrounding areas to send letters to Santa Claus and receive a letter in return. For several years, the city of Auburn has sponsored this program for children every holiday season.

Graphic with question mark over a calendar in front of a Christmas tree with music notes, a record and headphones around it.

Noel in November: When Auburn students start listening to Christmas music

By Lorelei Young | Lifestyle Writer | November 12

The unique aspect about holidays is that every individual is able to celebrate them differently. While some people are persistent in beginning Christmas festivities only after Thanksgiving, others eagerly await the morning of Nov. 1 to bring on the holiday spirit. There is one major point of contention, though, for all of those who celebrate Christmas. When is the proper time to start playing Christmas music?

STEM: Deer Lab photo 2

Auburn’s Whitetail Deer Lab: A leader in wildlife study and conservation

By Laura Newman | Lifestyle Writer | November 11

The Auburn University College of Forestry, Wildlife and Environment (CFWE) offers many opportunities for students to gain hands-on experience in their respective fields. One such opportunity is with the college’s whitetail Deer Lab – a facility that not only studies the characteristics and breeding patterns of deer but also raises conservational awareness for wild animals.

A woman in a white dress with floral embellishments joyfully holds a pom-pom in front of a red brick building.

In memory of Lainey Anderson

By Katelyn Smith | Lifestyle Editor | November 9

Filled with overflowing kindness and a welcoming spirit, Lainey Anderson made an effort to spread love wherever she went. During her time at Auburn, she was dedicated to including everyone at the table, while being a constant friend in her relationships. Anderson graduated from Auburn this past May with a degree in professional flight from the School of Aviation with a minor in finance. She was also a certified flight instructor at Sander’s Aviation in Jasper, Alabama.

Many students are outside the Auburn University Recreation and Wellness Center. Contributed by Leanne Greene.

Staying active in Auburn

By Margaret Griffin | Lifestyle Writer | November 9

Whether students enjoy late afternoon runs in "The Rec," walks with friends around campus or fitness classes conveniently located near their apartment, there is no shortage of ways to stay active in Auburn. Within the past couple of years, recent fitness additions, such as workout classes or local gyms, have grown to help students maintain healthy lifestyles year-round. These new fitness communities are becoming multigenerational, as they are populated with college students and residents who enjoy a breadth of exercise options.

A colorful children's book titled "Andy: A Dog's Tale" features a cheerful cartoon dog on the cover, with multiple copies stacked below it.

Award-winning animation director Jamy Wheless introduces newest character at Auburn Public Library

By Katelyn Smith | Lifestyle Editor | November 8

Animator, veteran of Lucasfilm, director and Auburn University alumnus Jamy Wheless hosted an event at the Auburn Public Library on Nov. 7, at 9:30 a.m. to introduce one of his newest characters: Andy the future service dog. Andy made his debut in a short film directed by Wheless and is now the star of a brand-new children’s book based on the film.

A bald man in glasses gestures while seated in front of a computer in an audio studio environment.

STEM side of music composition

By Lizzie McGlynn | Lifestyle Writer | November 7

In the world of modern composition, technology is no longer an add-on to music; it is a core part of how it is created, taught and performed. At Auburn University, that reality is shaping a growing program where students learn to blend artistry with innovation. Lee Johnson, professor of composition, has seen firsthand how much technology has become inseparable from the craft.

A boy in a yellow shirt and a girl in a pink dress play pickleball across a black net on a light blue background.

Health benefits of recreational sports

By Katie Gibson | Lifestyle Writer | November 4

Many college students grew up with a background of athletics, competing and being a part of a team. Coming to college can be scary for students who are worried they will lose the competitive outlet that they grew up loving. Luckily at Auburn, you do not need to be a “D1 athlete” to continue competing recreationally.

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