ACTIVISM

SPEAKING OUT
FOR CHANGE
DON CONWAY-LONG
NON-VIOLENCE
EDUCATION

GLOBAL CUISINE
DINING ABROAD

AMPERSAND | VOLUME 13 | ISSUE 2 | SPRING 2015

websterampersand.com
ampersand@webster.edu
470 E. Lockwood Ave.
St. Louis, MO 63119
314.246.7785

AMPERSAND | VOLUME 13 | ISSUE 2 | SPRING 2015

websterampersand.com
ampersand@webster.edu
470 E. Lockwood Ave.
St. Louis, MO 63119
314.246.7785

A B O U T / / S t a ff & L e t t e r F ro m T h e E d i t o r s

Editors-in-Chief

Heather Bartel
Alex Wilking

Art Director

Daniel Frumhoff

Photo Editor
Social Media Editor
Global Editor

Lily Voss
Chloe Hall
Allison Klinghammer

Staff








Contributors

Brandon Carroll
Latasha Dean
Gaby Deimeke
Sierra Hancock
Romana Mrzljak
Claire Mueller
Kristen Pruser
Walter Ritchey

Adviser

Karen Burch

Jeannie Liautaud
Dane Watkins

Ta b l e o f C o n t e n t s

Dear Reader,
We know you like things. So in this issue, we tried
to include everything that yall are passionate about:
activism, Harry Potter-inspired sports, astrology,
beer and vegetarianism. We wanted to make sure
Ampersand was more inclusive of all Webster
University has to offer, regardless of department
or association. Since this is our last stamp on this
university not only as students, but also editors,
we wanted everything to be killer.
This semester was pretty great. We were more
experienced this time around, and finally earned
the title of Dream Teamsomething we had hoped
to accomplish all along. But we couldnt have done
any of that without our extremely dedicated staff,
who put up with our obvious disdain and terrible
puns. Wed also like to thank our adviser, Karen, for
her immense support of the magazines continued
growth, and her immaculate taste in beers.
Some highlights: Heather made at least one reference
to The Office every week. Alex continually wore
his dinosaur socks to class so everyone knew he was
a grown man. Our art director, Daniel, came back
to us the way we always knew he would. Also,
the music of R. Kelly helped edit a story or two.

The Ampersand is produced as a part

of JOUR 4390 Magazine Production. The
staff creates content for class credit, and
The Gallery is composed of submissions
by Webster University students.

In the words of The White Stripes, we gave this

magazine some icky thump, yo. A seven-nation
army couldnt hold us back. And we wish future
editors that same strength. Just stop rebranding
this thing, okay? We like it this way.

The magazine is produced on Apple

computers using Adobe Creative Cloud.
Swift Print Communications in St. Louis,
MO printed 1,500 copies of this issue.
The text pages are printed 4 color process
on 80-pound Endurance text weight.
The cover is printed 4 color process
on 80-pound Endurance gloss cover
weight with a soft touch aqueous coat.

Enjoy this magazine. We may joke more often

than not, but it was an honor to be a part of
such an acclaimed and artistic entity.

websterampersand.com
ampersand@webster.edu
470 E. Lockwood Ave.
St. Louis, MO, 63119
Cover photo by Lily Voss
Title page photo by Jeannie Liautaud

AMPERSAND // Spring 2015

Heather & Alex

10

15

16

ETCS
Just Roll With It: Tips for going vegetarian
Steeped in Benefits: Tea for every occasion
Spins For Your Sign: Playlists for your astral sign

4
4
5

S T YL E
Androgyny: Defying gender stereotypes
Brow Power: Shaping the perfect brows
Community to Closet: Shopping local

6
8
9

RE VI E W
The Best Trucking Food Around: Food trucks
Taking the Mic: Karaoke hotspots

10
11

F E A T U RE S
Wizards of Webster: Quidditch
Speaking Out: Students call for change
Pardon my French: Language and culture
Close Up: Senior film overviews

12
20
24
30

20

29

36

P RO F I L E
Emily Ratkewicz: Getting animated
Don Conway-Long: Promoting peace
Jennifer Starkey: Coming full circle

15
27
33

T H E G A L L E RY

16

VO I C E S
Going to the Well: Art school buzzkill
Swipe Left or Right: That is the question

28
29

GL O BA L
Global Student Leadership Summit
Prost!: The best booze abroad
Packing Tips: Catering to each campus
Global Cuisine: Foods abroad

35
36
37
38

D I GI T A L C O N T E N T
Download on the App Store & Google Play
3

E T C / / Te a & Ve g

ETC // Spins

Story by Chloe Hall

Photo by Jeannie Liautaud

The fridge is almost empty. Youre

eating a PB&J for the fourth meal
in a row to avoid an expensive
trip to the store. To top it off, a
lack of vitamins and proteins are
making you too exhausted to get
up anyway. But dont lose hope
becoming a vegetarian can be a
frustrating yet rewarding lifestyle
change. Here are a few tips to
help adjust to this new way of
living and thinking.

Sweet or bitter, black or

oolong, teas can boost
antioxidants and subdue
stress. With roots in
ancient Chinese medicine,
this flavorful drink can
be so much more than
a coffee replacement.
Hello Glow
Packed with hydrating
antioxidants, green tea promotes
healthy, radiant skin. Add a bit
of zesty ginger and ice to cool
down irritated skin.
Properties: non-caffeinated
or caffeinated, herbal, tart
Calming Kava
Sip stress away with a relaxing
blend of Kava root and
cinnamon. Serve the peppery
4

Dining in:

Dining out:

MorningStar offers excellent mock

meat options including sausage
patties, chicken nuggets and ground
beef substitutes that are perfect for
chili. Most of this faux meat is made
from textured vegetable protein,
which is created from soy. This brand
is available at grocery stores like
Schnucks and Trader Joes. Another
great option is falafel, a Middle
Eastern patty made of chickpeas
that makes for a delicious, proteinpacked meal. Throw a few in some
pita bread with hummus for a quick
and easy sandwich. Falafel mix is
carried at most grocery stores.

People tend to forget that when going

out for Taco Bell, dishes can easily be
made vegetarian. Just substitute beef
or chicken with beans. Use this trick
to make your Mexican adventures
healthier and satisfying. As an added
bonus, beans and rice eaten together
make a complete serving of protein.
Contrary to popular belief, fish is not
included in a vegetarians diet either.
When going out for sushi, there are
several alternatives. A filling meal can
include a variety of vegetable, fruit
and tofu sushi. Top it off with veggie
tempura, miso soup and a salad for
a veggie-friendly feast.

mixture hot with a side of

Netflix or a good book to
ensure tranquility.

packed organic yerba

mate leaf and stem
for an intense flavor.

Properties: non-caffeinated,
herbal, spicy

Properties: caffeinated,
herbal, slightly bitter

Sweet Slumber
With an herbal, lemony
flavor, Celestial Seasonings
Sleepytime makes it easy
to drift off with spearmint,
rosebuds and lemongrass.

Story by Claire Mueller

Photo by Lily Voss

Properties: non-caffeinated,
herbal, sweet
Rejuvenate and
Reenergize
Perfect for the transition
from coffee to tea,
energizing Guayaki
Yerba Mate contains
only the antioxidant-

AMPERSAND // Spring 2015

A music mix written in the stars.

Find out which current tunes
align with your zodiac sign.
Aquarius: Jan. 20 Feb. 18
The independent Aquarius loves to break
the rules. Embrace your free-spirited
personality with the electro-pop sounds
of Porter Robinsons Worlds (2014).
Pisces: Feb. 19 Mar. 20
With distaste for negativity, Pisces will
love the cheerful sounds of Marina
and the Diamonds Froot (2015).
Aries: Mar. 21 Apr. 19
Impatient and courageous, Aries dare
devil personality is fueled by the raw,
punk-anthems of Sleater-Kinneys
No Cities to Love (2015).
Taurus: Apr. 20 May 20
Taurus love for luxury is inspired
with Bjrks rich and alluring strings
arrangements on Vulnicura (2015).

Gemini: May 21 June 20

Laura Marlings Short Movie (2015)
caters to Geminis dual personality.
The reflective lyrics and optimistic
guitar are sure to please both of you.
Cancer: June 21 - July 22
Sympathetic and emotional, Cancers
love for sentimentality is perfectly
embodied in Sufjan Stevens soft-spoken
and intimate Carrie and Lowell (2015).
Leo: July 23 Aug. 22
Leos are outgoing and always looking
for adventure. Spin Joyce Manors
Never Hungover Again (2014) to
match your magnetic personality.
Virgo: Aug. 23 Sept. 22
Meticulous and analytic, Virgos will
appreciate the upbeat, melodic music
of St. Lucias When the Night (2013).

Pioneer of Nothing (2015) by You

Blew It! is the perfect album for you.
Scorpio: Oct. 23 Nov. 21
Intense but composed, Scorpios will
love the fresh sounds of Spoons
They Want My Soul (2014).
Sagittarius: Nov. 22 Dec. 21
The inquisitive, philosophical Sagittarius
will appreciate the harmonious sounds
of Seahavens Reverie Lagoon (2014).
Capricorn: Dec. 22 Jan. 19
The Capricorns traditional,
meticulous personality is sure
to vibe with the sounds of Future
Islands Singles (2014).
Story by Romana Mrzljak
Photo by Chloe Hall

Libra: Sept. 23 Oct. 22

Libras love for balance and detail is
only second to their love of company.
5

S T Y L E / / A n d ro g y n o u s

The androgynous trend continues

to gain new followers looking for
something different. Its a powerful
style that is sophisticated, classy and
easy to do. If you want to break gender
stereotypes and look fashionable while
doing it, use these basic tips to build
an androgynous wardrobe.

Androgyny aims to test gender

roles and societal norms by
promoting and maximizing
certain traits that go against
the status quo. The idea is
to mix masculine items with
feminine flair, which keeps
your look interesting and
often unexpected. This bold
style allows those who are not
comfortable being assigned
a traditional gender to
dress the way they feel.

Invest in a stylish pair of unisex shoes.

Converse and Oxfords are good,
standard options. A wing tip will also
work well. Dont go for a shoe that is
too round, as these are pretty outdated.
Button up shirts and bowties are a
must. Rock the button up untucked
with your favorite pair of jeans and
choose a bowtie that adds character.
Stay away from powdery colors.
Androgyny calls for bright or dark
clothing nothing in between.
Try any of these androgyny-inspired
tips to transform your everyday look
into something more stylish and
less gendered. With an ambiguous
wardrobe, your options are limitless.
Story by Sierra Hancock
Photo by Jeannie Liautaud
Models Jake Kevrick
Paige Alyssa Hegwood

AMPERSAND // Spring 2015

S T Y L E / / B ro w P o w e r

STYLE // Community to Closet

Small buy, big impact. Shopping

locally can have great benefits on
your community and your wardrobe.
From handmade necklaces to STL inspired T-shirts, a stylish wardrobe
is just steps away.
Shopping locally strengthens your
communitys economy, putting more money
back into your pocket. Sales taxes profit
local schools and police departments, not
just national programs. Try skipping the mall
and head to Paperdolls in University City, or
East+West in Kirkwood for designer denim.

Bold brows are making a

confident return. Here are some
ways to up your brow game.
The most popular of the brow-grooming
tools, eyebrow pencils are used to fill, shape
or darken your brows. These pencils come
in a variety of shades and include brushes
to make blending easier. For a natural look
that comes in nine different shades, try
Brow Wiz by Anastasia Beverly Hills.
Brow gels typically come with mascara-like
applicators, and are used to keep eyebrow
hairs in line. Along with setting brows in
place, gels can also be used to add a light
tint of color. Try Lashfoods Browfood
Brow Enhancing Gelfix, which has
peptides, skin-healing proteins that
will nourish your brows over time.

Fuel your Etsy obsession and save the

planet with statement gemstone jewelry
from Scarlett Garnet. Each elegant piece is
cut locally, minimizing transportation waste
and reducing pollution. Etsy shops like Anna
Ourth Jewelry also embrace environmental
sustainability. The eclectic shop ships all
of its personalized, handcrafted jewelry
in environmentally friendly Kraft boxes.
Mom and Pop stores also add character
to your town. Support local designers with
a one-of-a-kind T-shirt from STL-Style. The
ultra-cool shop embraces St. Louis pride
by working with local artists for design
inspiration. Swing around the corner
and you might just find your next outfit.

Use brow powder to create fuller, more

prominent eyebrows. Powder defines
existing brow shapes and enhances natural
color. Bulletproof Brows by Too Faced
comes with a perfectly angled brush and
spoolie to make application easy and
give your brows a natural look.

Keeping
your
shopping
local

Brow wax is great for grooming thicker

hairs. While products like gel are usually
applied on top, wax acts as a base before
powder or pencils are applied. It also makes
the products you apply on top of the wax
last longer. Try Sephoras Universal Brow
Freeze, which weightlessly keeps your
arches in shape.
Story by Claire Mueller
Photo by Walter Ritchey
Model Kira Webster

AMPERSAND // Spring 2015

Story by Romana Mrzljak

Photo by Latasha Dean
Model Katie Wilson

REVIEW // Karaoke

R E V I E W / / F o o d Tr u c k s

Some of the best foods in St . Louis arent just found in brick and mortar restaurants,
but also roaming the streets in food trucks. Track down these local trucks for a treat .

Its the one time when performing

on stage drunk in front of friends
and strangers is acceptable. Its the
one time when nerves, forgotten
lyrics and singing off-key wont
get the crowd booing. Its karaoke
night, and St. Louis is full of
venues for belting it out. Here
are some of the best karaoke
bars close to campus.
Boogaloo: It may be the Cuban, Creole
or Caribbean cuisine that brings in
customers. Or maybe its the awardwinning cocktails, mojitos and sangria.
One thing is for certain, on Thursday
nights at Boogaloo, its the karaoke.

10 AMPERSAND // Spring 2015

The small space is packed with

Webster students pouring their hearts
out on stage during Bobs Krazy
Karaoke from 10pm until 1am.
Boogaloo offers cheap shot and drink
specials on karaoke night. The bar also
features swings for seats at the bar so
customers can swing and drink. Stay by
the bar and mingle or go to the karaoke
room and dance. Be warned: The DJ
is known to throw in some air guitar.
The Crack Fox: If wacky guests, bingo
and trivia arent enough to get people
into this punk-style dive bar, then the
karaoke does the trick. Every Tuesday
night, The Crack Fox fills up its narrow
space in downtown St. Louis for
Karaoke Tuesdays.

Just one catch karaoke is strictly punk

rock. Head-banging tunes can be sung
until 2:30am while throwing back PBRs
from a five-dollar bucket deal.

COMPLETELY SAUCED

SEOUL TACO

SARAHS CAKE STOP

Completely Sauced is a Creole and

Cajun-inspired truck available in the
downtown area during weekday lunch
hours. The truck is all about sourcing
as many local ingredients as possible,
giving the truck even more of a
St. Louis flair. Completely Sauceds
New Orleans-inspired cuisine includes
po boys served on crusty French
bread, chicken jambalaya, red beans
and rice. Their menu includes a few
set items and several rotational
specialties like crab cakes, touffe
(a spicy Cajun stew) and classic
beignets (a donut-like treat). Try their
spicy, flavorful jambalaya made with
chicken, pork sausage and rice. Served
with locally made bread, this dish
satisfies any Cajun craving.

Seoul Taco has been serving up

delicious Korean barbecue and
Mexican-inspired fare since 2011.
Seoul Taco offers a small but impactful
menu, from their bold twist on tacos,
burritos and quesadillas to savory gogi
bowls and traditional kimchi. For
a spicy bite, try their namesake taco.
Choose from bulgogi steak, chicken,
spicy pork or tofu as a protein,
surrounded by Korean salad mix and
Seoul sauce. The sauce is hot, but
balanced by the Korean greens and
the perfect amount of seasoning.
Enhance the flavor even more by
squeezing a fresh lime over the mix.

In 2010, Sarahs Cake Stop became

the first cupcake truck in St. Louis.
The food truck, which originates from
Sarahs Cake Shop in Chesterfield, has
expanded its menu with an assortment
of delectable desserts, including
cookies and rice crispy treats. For
a delicious sugar rush, try a decked
out brownie topped with layers
of fudgy chocolate. These brownies
are covered with peanut butter cups,
Oreo cookies or cookie dough, all
topped with more chocolate drizzle.
Story by Claire Mueller
Photo by Kristen Pruser

Double D: If one day a week just isnt

enough, Double Ds in Brentwood offers
karaoke every night of the week. Pizza,
free popcorn and one-dollar Jell-O shots
attract both young and old to the mic.
Get there early on the weekend to avoid
lines out the door, and even earlier to
avoid a long wait for karaoke. If driving
home is completely out of the question,
theres a bus stop nearby to make sure
all karaoke enthusiasts get home safely.
Story by Sierra Hancock
Photo by Gaby Deimeke

11

FEATURE // Quidditch

he Webster Quidditch
team takes practice
seriously. They do it
outdoors on the quad,
across the street at Eden or indoors
in the gym, sharing the space with
basketball and volleyball players.
And they do it with broomsticks
between their legs.
Websters team, a Frankenstein pastiche
of nerdiness, athleticism and wide-eyed
optimism evolved from a group called
the Potterheads officially formed in
2009. The niche activity has begun to
carve out a place for itself, dominating
other Quidditch teams in the area
and drawing more interest than any
previous year.

12 AMPERSAND // Spring 2015

For those who have been living

under a rock for the last fifteen
years, Quidditch is a made-up
game played by wizards in the
Harry Potter books /movies /universe,
where the goal is to throw a ball
(the quaffle) through one of three
opposing hoops. The team without
the ball can work to get it back
through physical tackles or via an
interception. But a player must
have their stick tucked between
their legs at all times, because
how else could they fly?
Its a rough sport much like rugby,
which captain and sophomore
Dane Davis said surprises a lot of
people. In the field of play, tackling
is fair, and injuries happen Davis
brother broke his collarbone playing

People who
have never
played
anything
competitively
start to get a
grasp of what
it takes,
Davis said.

Quidditch. Websters team has two

captains. Davis joined as a way to stay
active after playing football in high
school. The other captain, junior Sarah
Gruett, was a Harry Potter fanatic and
joined out of her love of the books.
And they do more than just play; the
team holds an annual Yule Ball and
Harry Potter trivia night, in addition to
practicing multiple times per week
and participating in weight training.
For Davis and the rest of the team,
the extra work has translated into
better results on the field.
On Sept. 27, the team won their first
trophy as they triumphed in the Illinois
College Tournament, in which they
had competed in previous years. On
Nov. 8 they won another tournament,

the unofficial regional tournament

according to Davis. Theyve had the
largest and most consistent turnout in
the clubs history since its initial founding
in 2009, averaging between 20-25
players throughout the season.
The hard surface of the roller derby rink
didnt deter the squad, even though
they picked up some cuts and bruises
from playing indoors. Indeed, Gruett
has an affinity for bruises which fellow
team member Mellisa Bufka noted.
Her favorite color is bruise, Bufka said.
After they had finished their intra-squad
entertainment, kids from the crowd
approached the team for autographs.
But the team doesnt plan on
stopping there.

Later this year, the Quidditch team will

attend the pinnacle of Qudditchdom
in the country at the Qudditch World
Cup in Rock Hill, South Carolina,
sponsored by United States Quidditch.
The best college teams in the country
travel to this competition to determine
a national champion. Although they
cant currently play due to membership
fees, both Gruett and Davis agree
that certification is a goal for the
Quiddtich team.
Whether that happens in 10 years or
10 months, one of Websters oddest
communities is unlikely to go away any
time soon. Despite its initial weirdness,
there seems to be a bit of magic about
this niche group, and they might take
flight sooner, rather than later.
Story by Dane Watkins
Photo by Lily Voss

13

PROFILE // Emily Ratkewicz

Every student is automatically a member of the Alumni

Association upon graduation. There are no dues! Get
connected to a network of 170,000 Alumni worldwide!
@Webster_Alumni
Webster University Alumni Association
Webster University Alumni Association

Sign up for the online community with

a searchable directory of alumni by
industry, location, company and more
Sign up to mentor a student
Get involved with one of the 30+
alumni chapters worldwide

Animation major by day,

cosplaying yoga master by night,
Emily Ratkewicz is a jack of all
trades around Webster. Ratkewicz
is known for her illustrations in
The Journal and the three years
she spent serving it up on the
volleyball court. But many may
not know about her alter-ego,
Wii Fit Trainer, which stems
from a love of Halloween.
Story & Photo by
Kristen Pruser

Q: How did you get into cosplay?

A: I was a senior in high school when
I first cosplayed. Cosplay was another
excuse to dress up as characters I loved.
Some of my friends helped me get
some costumes together, and it became
another reason for us to hang out.
Q: Who is your favorite
person to cosplay?
A: I think my favorite is the Wii Fit Trainer
because I get to be really active all day.
I take peoples challenges. They are like,
Do 20 push-ups, and Ill go down and
do 20 push-ups. I get to interact with
people all day and people say, Wow
you are the character!
Q: What or who inspired you
to do animation?

For more information, contact:

Webster University
470 E. Lockwood Ave.
St. Louis, MO 63119-3194

14 AMPERSAND // Spring 2015

alumni.webster.edu
(314) 968-7149 (800) 305-ALUM
Fax (314) 968-7108
alumni@webster.edu

A: Ive been into Disney movies ever

since I was a kid, and Ive loved cartoons
and animation. It just kind of hit me
around the fifth grade. My fifth grade
teacher was the only teacher in my
school that really emphasized art in

every subject. So I definitely thank

them for that.
Q: What is your favorite thing
to draw?
A: I absolutely love drawing animals.
I love drawing big, fluffy, soft things.
I seem to understand things that have
a quadruped anatomy. I drew them a
lot as a kid so Im a lot more comfortable
drawing animals, specifically dogs,
than humans.
Q: Whats something else you
want people to know about you?
A: I work mostly in 2-D animation
thats my specialty. Id like to go on and
do 2-D character animation. I love the
way a character moves. The fact that
I can bring something two-dimensional
to life is just an amazing idea.
Q: Describe yourself in
three words.
A: Loyal, enthusiastic and excitable.

15

THE GALLERY

THE

A showcase featuring student-produced photography,

art & poetry. The Gallery represents the culture and
creativity of Websters student body.

RoadCloud // Izaiah Johnson

Wings // Brandon Halley

16 AMPERSAND // Spring 2015

Untitled // Courtney Miener

17

THE JOURNAL

THE GALLERY

Volume 20

Issue 15

Spring 2015 Issues

websterjournal.com

Pick up your copy today,

on campus or online.
The Journal is the news source
for Webster University, printed
bi-weekly and always available
online at websterjournal.com.
For information, contact us at
journaladmgr@gmail.com.

The Mind // Jenny Chan

Aqueous // Farah Tinnemeyer

WBE B
V EVSE S
W E
S ST TEERR GGRROO

Post-Modern Romeo and Juliet

by Jordan Hageman
I saw you on social media
You think differently than my parents do
I cant tell you how this excites me
Its different and its fresh, but scary
You saw me too?
And your parents dont like me?
Good, no one understands us
We just met but I love you
Id take my life for you
I saw you on social media
You have a lot of likes on that picture
I cant tell you how much I want you
I know you dont know me
And I know I dont know you
But I know its true
Id kill myself if I cant have you
Untitled // Lara Head

18 AMPERSAND // Spring 2015

CONGRATS
TO OUR
GRADUATING
STUDENT
AMBASSADORS!

Produce, Eggs, Cheese, Baked Goods, Honey,

Produce,
Eggs,
Cheese,
Baked Goods,
Music,
and
Kids Activities
Honey, Music, and Kids Activities

THURSDAYS,
THURSDAYS
MAY 7MAY
- OCT 7
22- OCT 22
3 pm - 6:30 pm
3:00 - 6:30pm
Located Gazebo Park at the corner of
Located
inAve.
Gazebo
the corner of
S. Old
Orchard
& BigPark
BendatBlvd.
S. Old Orchard Ave. & Big Bend Blvd.

FEATURE // Activism

young man holds

onto a strangers arm
to guide him as they
run, the pepper spray
still burning his eyes. A high-pitched
siren wails, giving only seconds to
warn the crowd of the oncoming
tear gas. The sounds of yelling, a
chorus of coughing and hundreds
of feet hitting the concrete
decorate the stagnant night air.
Most people can only imagine
this scene. But for some, these
situations are a reality.

College students are most often the

catalyst for change in many of this
nations greatest social movements.
Throughout events surrounding
Ferguson and sexual assault
awareness on campus this year,
Webster students have had a
profound effect on Webster Groves,
the St. Louis community and history.
Junior human rights major Hattie
Svoboda-Stel is just one of these
many Webster students who have
been pushing for big changes.
On New Years Eve, protesters and
police went head-to-head with fists
and pepper spray flying at the
St. Louis Metro Police Department.
As police arrived with riot gear,
Svoboda-Stel knew that it was
time to join the group of protesters
volunteering on the frontline, accept
her responsibility as a student
and willingly be arrested for civil
disobedience. An officer approached
her from behind and put his hands
on her neck, attempting to use her
pressure points to force her to avoid
resistance. Svoboda-Stel was able
to maintain control of her body and
immediately let it fall limp. She was
dragged across the room and thrown
onto the concrete outside. She soon
found herself behind bars, where she
was kept overnight.

Students Call for Change

Photo by Lily Voss

20 AMPERSAND // Spring 2015

21

FEATURE // Activism
Chi, an advertising and marketing
communications alumnus, described
the incredibly positive and upbeat
energy that radiated from the
participants at the conference.
He was asked to speak at the
conference as a member of the
St. Louis transgender community.
Its happening everywhere.
Organizations claim to be LGBT,
but they do little for the trans
community, Chi said. But the
crowd was very receptive and
supportive of what I had to say.

Photo by Chloe Hall

It is very overwhelming to go into

an institution and not be treated like
a human, Svodoba-Stel said. On
a conceptual level we know what jail
is. But we just lock people in tiny
rooms when were mad at them.
Thats messed up.
Svoboda-Stels experience was one
of many involvements shes been
a part of during her journey to help
create change. She is among many
students at Webster who have spoken
out. But fighting for change hasnt
always rested solely among the
students Webster faculty have
also given their time and voices.
Sister Barbara Ann, Ph.D, a Sister of
Loretto and former Dean of Students,
joined Websters History Department
as a professor in 1963. She was
noted for pioneering non-traditional
learning experiences and her activist
involvement in the 1960s and 70s.

During the Vietnam War, Sister Barbara

Ann used her background in South
Asian culture to help nourish Webster
students desire for change by leading
workshops during a day at Webster.
These workshops, in association with
Washington University, were dedicated
to anti-Vietnam War education and
discussion. Students from both
universities also joined in anti-war
protests together, unafraid to express
their desire for change in the world.

Theres the kind of awareness that

you have about the world you live in,
Sister Barbara Ann said. Its the kind
of thing we try to teach kindergarteners
and preschool kids. Looking around
the room when you first walk in.
Looking around the block to see
whats there; to see the trees, to see
the grass, to see what kind of flowers
they plant next door. Thats the kind
of awareness thats important to
have to enrich your life.

Activism doesnt always have to mean

being shoulder-to-shoulder in a crowd
of strangers, chanting and marching
down the highway, nor does it have to
mean occupying police headquarters
or getting arrested. These types of
activism that create headlines are
sometimes necessary for change,
but Sister Barbara Ann says theres
one kind of activism we could all pay
a little more attention to awareness.

Awareness has played a part in a

number of student-led movements.
On October 29, 2014, Webster
University students carried pillows
and mattresses from class to class in
support of Carry That Weight Day,
a day dedicated to raising awareness
against campus sexual assault. On
November 24, the decision not to indict
Officer Darren Wilson for the killing of
Michael Brown in Ferguson, Missouri
was released. Days later, students held
a protest on campus, led by Jeremy
Coleman, with support from the
administration against the decision. On
December 12, Webster students Kalani
Seaver and Bridgette Kluger published
a petition on Change.org challenging
Webster Universitys administration to
take a stronger stand against sexual
assault. On February 6, 2015 at
Creating Change, the National LGBTQ
Task Forces annual conference, alumni
Eli Chi spoke as a representative for a
group of Ferguson activists promoting
the awareness of 11 trans women and
gender-nonconforming persons who
have been killed this year.

Photo by Lily Voss

22 AMPERSAND // Spring 2015

A week later, on February 14, Chi was

arrested while blocking the intersection
of Kingshighway and Maryland Plaza
as a part of a demonstration to pay
respect to the 11 transgender women
that had been killed to date this year.
The group of demonstrators marched
to the intersection, where eight
people were arrested, three of which
were let go. They were charged with
failure to disperse around 7pm and
released around 4am with the help

Pictured:
Hattie Svoboda-Stel

Photo contributed by Marissa Diekhoff

of jail support and Svoboda-Stel,

who happened to be working the
hotline at the time of Chis call.
By becoming a coordinator for the
hotline, Svoboda-Stel has helped
countless people, formed strong
friendships and became a part
of a movement that she found
to be a life-changing experience.
I have learned so much about how to
best support organizers of color in the
fight to dismantle white supremacy.
There has been an amazing amount of
solidarity in this work, Svoboda-Stel
said. Ive hugged more strangers in
the past six months than I probably
have in my whole life.
This sense of community is
something that all activists can
attest to as being a gift.
Community is a privilege, Chi said.
Everyone doesnt have the opportunity
or access to places where they can
be themselves.

Unfortunately, this side of activism

isnt prevalent in the news or on
social media. When asked what advice
he would give to those who are ready
to sigh at the next mention of these
social issues, Chi didnt hesitate
with his reaction.
Right off the bat, I want to say, When
you tell me that you are sick of hearing
about this, youre telling me you have
no interest in my life. Im not trying to
make this about me, but when people
in my community are dying it becomes
a bit personal. It becomes about me,
Chi said. The organizer and activist
side of me wants to then ask Why?
Why are you really sick of hearing
about this? People really dont want
to think about these things because
its uncomfortable, and they come
from a place where theres a lack of
understanding of the issue. People
are scared to question what they
know to be true.
Story by Chloe Hall

Webster students hold a strike on May 6, 1970,

in response to the Kent State shooting.

Photo contributed by Webster Archives

23

F E A T U R E / / L a n g u a g e & C u l t u re

extensive mission: to create a

Francophile community at Webster.
I want to promote not just French
culture, but Francophile cultures to
create global citizens, Cuill said.
But you cannot be a global citizen
if you just speak English.
Cuill has created a world of
opportunities for French enthusiasts
simply by teaching his passions. Born
in Toulon, France, a small town located
between Marseille and Nice, Cuills first
love was literature. Falling headfirst for
19th century poet Frances Ponge, Cuill
immersed himself in grammar, film and
even Latin. While specializing in 19th
and 20th in century poetry, Cuill refers
to himself as a generalist, embracing
all forms of media in the classroom.
Most French courses require the use of
multimedia such as film, photography
and art to examine the language in
a cultural context. This method has
given French professors the freedom to
create courses specific to their students
needs. After seeing an increased interest
in environmental sustainability, Cuill
created an advanced seminar called
French Ecology in the fall of 2013 to
examine Frances environmental
politics and connect the material to
current topics in the classroom. For
Cuill, learning a language is all
about adaptability.

ts 3:30pm on a Tuesday.
Between the clatter of forks
and spoons, a cheerful voice
rings through Marlettos:
Bonjour! Its the usual set-up for
Mikal Toulza, French teaching
assistant in the Department of
International Languages and
Cultures. Toulza, a native of
Toulouse, France, is one of four
teaching assistants working side-byside with the department to bring
a bit of je ne sais quoi to Webster.

24 AMPERSAND // Spring 2015

You must learn another culture through

language in order to have a better point
of view on your own culture, Cuill
said. What is valued most is a sense of
openness to adapt to new situations.
Toulza hosts La Table Franaise, a
program that encourages students to
practice their French in a more relaxed
environment. An actor in France for
10 years, Toulza brings his passion for
entertaining to the classroom.
Thats what I do when I teach, Toulza
said. I act, I jump I need everyone
awake. I try to bring my French touch
to each class.
Toulza isnt the only star in the show.
Since the creation of Le Centre
Francophone in 2012, Webster has

become the heart of St. Louis

Francophile community. With goals of
bringing a taste of France to Webster,
the program organizes events to engage
these French enthusiasts in the culture.
The program even recruits one student
from select schools around the globe
for a yearlong exchange program.
Leading the way in this endeavor is
Professor Lionel Cuill. After being
commissioned the Jane and Bruce Robert
Chair in French and Francophone Studies
and Director of Le Centre Francophone,
Cuill dedicated himself to an

Culture can come in many forms and

languages. The department offers
courses in 10 languages, including
Spanish, Italian and Arabic. Students
can take their language skills to the
next level with semester-long study
abroad or exchange student programs
in France and Argentina. Yet for
Spanish students, living like a local
doesnt require a passport, just a
quick stroll to Webster Hall.
Renowned theater company

Teatro Buenda brought a bit of Cuba to

Webster earlier this spring. Known for
adapting classical plays to reflect upon
Cuban society, playwright Raquel Carrio
and director Flora Lauten immersed
students in Spanish literature through a
five-week series of workshops and plays.
The powerhouse theater duo also
taught a four-week course open to
all majors. Students watched, read
and dissected adaptations of plays
focusing on different cultures. Spanish
major Taylor Caldwell explains that
Teatro Buenda was simply an
extension of the classroom, but with
a little added flavor. There is only so
much you can experience in a standard
language course, Caldwell said.
To have someone teach a course
thats so unique is very useful.
According to Caldwell, the department
acts as a melting pot for students of all
backgrounds. Classes are composed of
both Spanish major and minor students,
which he admits is part of their charm.
The intimate and diverse classes, with
most including less than 12 students,
provide the perfect atmosphere for
one-on-one conversations.
Yet Caldwells passion for language
surpasses Spanish. Like many foreign
language students, he dabbles in
several languages, taking courses in
Italian and socializing at the Japanese
Language Table.
Whether its French, Russian, Spanish
or Thai, Caldwell encourages students
to experience cultures through language.
Learning any language, he explains,
is about practicality and passion.
It gives you a better understanding
of other people, of how they live,
Caldwell said. Its something you
can feel really good about.
Story by Romana Mrzljak
Photos by Gaby Deimeke

25

PROFILE // Don Conway-Long

100
YEARS

AND

COUNTING

Associate professor Don ConwayLong is more than just his minilibrary, also known as his office.
Conway-Long is an advocate for
ending violence and sharing his
knowledge of masculinity studies,
and the hundreds of books on sex
and gender that line his office reflect
that. In 1978, Conway-Long helped
create RAVEN, an organization that
promotes nonviolence education,
where he is an active consultant and
trainer. At Webster University he
promotes the same message as
an anthropology professor aiming
to diminish gender stereotypes.
Story by Sierra Hancock
Photo by Lily Voss

For a century, Webster University has been a part of Saint Louis providing quality education to
students in Missouri, the US and across the globe. Join us in honoring our past and looking to
the future at centennial events throughout the community! Learn more at 1 0 0 . W E B S T E R . E D U.

100.WEBSTER.EDU

Q: What got you interested

in anthropology?
A: I took my first anthropology courses
in the late 80s and I really liked them.
There was a part of me that realized,
Gee I should have been an
anthropologist a long time ago.
Q: Why are you so passionate
about masculinity studies?
A: I dont buy the boys will be boys
or its always been that way kind of
statements about masculinity, or that
men will always be violent. I think that
is utter and complete nonsense. Weve
got choices to make big ones and
weve got a lot of work to do to end
the behaviors that hurt us all.
Q: What made you want
to teach?
A: I never wanted to do anything else.
Theres something about what happens
in a classroom when you can see sparks
lit, the ideas generating behind the
eyes. When you can help shape peoples

understanding of whats happening

to them that stuff gives me such
an incredible thrill.
Q: Did you have any
influential teachers?
A: When I was in Taiwan for 10th and
11th grade, I had a biology teacher by
the name of Raella Booton Brown, who
was there because her husband was in
Vietnam. In 1968, Martin Luther King
was shot, and she stopped teaching
biology for two weeks and taught
us from her perspective what it was
like to live in America as an African
American woman. To talk about, from
her perspective, what race meant in the
United States was extremely powerful
for me, and that moment has stuck
with me forever.
Q: What is your
five-word memoir?
A: Care deeply about ending violence.

#WEBSTER100
27

VOICES

To Swipe Right or Left:

That is the question

Ampersands
staff weighs in
on what they
care about.

Going to the Well: This art

school buzzword is a real buzzkill
Pretentious
Part of Speech: Adjective
Definition: Attempting to
impress by affecting greater
importance, talent, culture,
etc., than is actually possessed.
Words like this one are tossed
around like proverbial pizza
dough on art school campuses.
It seems that anyone with an
inkling of pride in their artistic
ability is pretentious. But the
word goes both ways. People
who judge art, or have what
would be considered more
highbrow taste, are also called
pretentious for their views.
So whether youre creating,
judging or consuming,
youre pretentious.

As a film production major, work

within the department is constantly
being shot down by fellow students
for being too pretentious, as if
theres a defined degree thats okay.
Which there might be. If you think
about it for more than two seconds,
everyone is pretentious, or has been
at some point. As human beings,
were constantly trying to make
something out of nothing, validate
our decisions and intellectualize our
world. It might happen on different
levels with different people, but
everyone has at least once in their
life put lipstick on a pig, or some
long words in an essay.
Granted, Ive looked at things,
people, etc. before and said to
myself, Christ thats the most
pretentious, self-satisfying thing
Ive ever seen. This is garbage and
it hurts me, and I feel bad for it.

Nobody deserves to have their point

of view shot down or destroyed
because of what someone else
deems pretentious. Critique
should be welcomed, and if part
of that critique involves saying that
something is pretentious, so be
it. But the word should be used
sparingly, like an R-rated swear
word. You cant go running around
using the word like a grade school
boy who just learned the f-word
and wants to impress or shock
his friends.
The pretentious count for this
articleincluding that oneis 11
times within less than 400 words.
I hear this word at least four times
as much as it appears in this article
on a daily basis while attending
Webster University. At the risk of
sounding pretentious (oops theres
another one, 12) this needs to stop.

He picks you up from

your house at seven, you
both enjoy a fancy dinner
as you get to know each
other better and the night
ends with a kiss on the
cheek if hes lucky. If
you are younger than 30,
you may be wondering
what Im talking about.
Modern-day dating has
transformed into an activity
for casual hookups, sans the
dinner. Apps like Tinder and
Grindr appear to help you find
your mate when what youre
really getting is a dirty pick-up
line from a guy whose profile
pictures are from his pre-beer

belly days. Phrases like wanna

hang out or lets chill no
longer mean going out for lunch
or to a movie, they mean sex.
Our society has become so
focused on the next best thing
that the desire to build true long
lasting relationships has severely
dwindled. Dating has become
talking, which basically means
that there is no loyalty. If he
cheats on you, the phrase we
were just talking is his getout-of-jail free card. There is
no commitment factor if it
isnt Facebook official.
Our generation needs to get out
of this sex-crazy, friends-withbenefits phase. Yes, dating can
be awkward and hooking up

with a friend may seem good

enough. But just because its
easy doesnt mean it is the best
decision. The focus should be on
building deep connections with
another person where sex is just
a bonus, and dating is more
than a sappy text message at
one in the morning.
Dating should not imply building
a list of options based on
physical attributes and Facebook
likes. Besides, swiping your card
for a meal on a date will most
likely lead to more genuine
matches than swiping right
(yes) to a prospective hookup.
Story by Sierra Hancock

Our generation
needs to get out of this
sex-crazy, friends-withbenefits phase.

Story by Brandon Carroll

28 AMPERSAND // Spring 2015

29

FEATURE // Film Overviews

Kyle Drahl has a talent for telling stories.

With a background in high school theater,
filmmaking comes naturally to the senior
film major. While directing is his passion,
Drahl admits that its also a lot of hard work.
His short film, Welcome Home, was
no exception. The film required a cast
and crew of 17 and a four-night shoot
spanning all hours of the day, not to
mention a $1,650 budget.
From writing scripts and scouting for
locations, to framing shots and feeding
a hungry crew, filmmaking is an intense
and sometimes last minute process.
48 hours before shooting his senior film
overview, Chasing Hope, senior film
major Patrick Mahoney scrambled to
rewrite his script and filming schedule.
If this had happened to me four years
ago, I wouldnt have known what to do,
Mahoney said.
Chasing Hope focuses on an elderly man
suffering from Alzheimers. For Mahoney,
the story is a representation of his own
familys struggle to cope with the
disease. After developing the script
Photos from the sets of "Welcome Home" and "June."

30 AMPERSAND // Spring 2015

31

FEATURE // Film Overviews

PROFILE // Jennifer Starkey

with writer Parker Jesse Chase, Mahoney

commissioned Meghan Cornell to help
produce the short.

Sometimes life comes full circle.

For Jennifer Starkey, Associate
Director of Public Relations, life
brought her back to Webster
University. Starkey got a degree
in broadcast journalism from
Webster in 98. Now, 17 years
later, after living all around the
US, Starkey has returned as an
employee. During her time as
a student, Starkey received the
George Herbert Walker Award
for Leadership and the Alumni
Undergraduate Student
Leadership Award.

The lighthearted story, which Mahoney

hopes to turn into a feature length film,
is a testament to his skills. Mahoney
started his freshman year of film school
with only a basic knowledge of video
and film, eventually learning the ins and
outs of editing and shooting on 16 mm
film. Yet it was the collaborative process
of shooting that Mahoney credits for
making him the filmmaker he is today.
Senior film overviews are a final project
of sorts for film majors, a chance to
define these students as producers
before they leave Webster. These films
are the product of dedication and
training packed onto the big screen.
They will play at the Winifred Moore
Auditorium on May 9th.

Story & Photo by

Gaby Deimeke

Q. What was Webster like while

you were an undergrad?
A: It was definitely a time of change.
Even from when I started to when
I graduated, things looked very different.
When I started, there was a tennis court
out by the quad and Sverdrup was a
new building.
Q: When you were SGA President,
what were the big issues on campus?
A: At the time, so many things were
changing and students were getting
fed up because they didnt feel like they
had a voice. Students were like, Why
is all of this happening and why arent
we having a say in it? So that really
coincided with more structure and that
we needed more say, and that students
needed to be more involved.
Q: What made you come back
to Webster?

Story by Romana Mrzljak

Photos by Kristen Pruser
& Gaby Deimeke

A: My husband and I decided to move

back to St. Louis a few years ago.
I enjoyed non-profit PR in Chicago and

when I saw the job at Webster, I jumped

on it. I remembered how much I enjoyed
being here, how much I wanted to get
back into non-profit PR and promoting
something that I believed in.
Q: What does being in the
Webster world mean to you?
A: It definitely feels like being home
again. This place felt like such a right fit
when I started, and I had such a good
time. It makes me wonder why I didnt
think of doing this sooner. But everything
has a path and you get there eventually.
I dont think Ive enjoyed a job this much
in my career; its just a good feeling.
Q: What has changed at Webster
from when you were a student
to now?
A: Its still so funny to me how much
its different but it stays the same. Even
walking into Sverdrup, it still smells the
same way. Its just great because I feel
like I have found my group and I have
found the place where I can do
some good.

Photos contributed by Meghan Cornell and Parker Chase

32 AMPERSAND // Spring 2015

33

GLOBAL // Global Student Leadership Summit

Download the Ampersand's app

for access to exclusive content.
Additional photos, animation,
audio & video.

The week of March 9-13, 30

student leaders of 22 nationalities
around the globe came together
in St. Louis for the first time in
the schools history. This
gathering marked the first
Global Student Leadership
Summit, in honor of Websters
recent centennial milestone.

HERE
WHERE
WILLWILL
YOUR
YOUR
WHERE WILL
YOUR
DVENTURE
ADVENTURE
TAKE
TAKE
YOU?
YOU?
ADVENTURE TAKE YOU?

udyStudy
Abroad:
Abroad:
The experience
The experience
of a lifetime!
of a lifetime!
webster.edu/studyabroad
webster.edu/studyabroad
Study Abroad: The experience of a lifetime!

webster.edu/studyabroad

CA AFRICA
AUSTRIA AUSTRIA
BELGIUM
BELGIUM
CHINA ENGLAND
CHINA ENGLAND
GERMANY
GERMANY
GREECE GREECE
JAPAN MEXICO
JAPAN MEXICO
AFRICA AUSTRIA BELGIUM CHINA ENGLAND GERMANY GREECE JAPAN MEXICO
NETHERLANDS
THETHE
NETHERLANDS
SPAIN SWITZERLAND
SPAIN
THAILAND
THAILAND
NETHERLANDS
SPAIN SWITZERLAND
SWITZERLAND
THAILAND
view@webster.edu
worldview@webster.edu
314-968-6988
314-968-6988
207 Sverdrup
207Sverdrup
Sverdrup
worldview@webster.edu
314-968-6988
207

CATION
APPLICATION
DEADLINES:
DEADLINES:
APPLICATION
DEADLINES:
SPRING
2016:
SEPTEMBER
15
G 2016:
SPRING
SEPTEMBER
2016:
SEPTEMBER
15
15
SUMMER
2016:
FEBRUARY
15
MER 2016:
SUMMER
FEBRUARY
2016: FEBRUARY
15
15
FALL
2016:
MARCH
15
2016:FALL
MARCH
2016:15MARCH 15
UNITED STATES SWITZERLAND AUSTRIA THE NETHERLANDS UNITED KINGDOM CHINA THAILAND GHANA GREECE

STATES
UNITED
SWITZERLAND
STATES SWITZERLAND
AUSTRIA THE
AUSTRIA
NETHERLANDS
THE NETHERLANDS
UNITED KINGDOM
UNITED
CHINA
KINGDOM
THAILAND
CHINA GHANA
THAILAND
GREECE
GHANA GREECE

At no cost for the students, Webster

flew in representatives from its
international campuses (Geneva, Leiden,
London, Shanghai, Vienna, Ghana and
Thailand) for a conference focusing on
cultivating students into becoming global
leaders. Students were accepted based
on application, and their leadership
skills varied from RAs to members of
SGA or other student organizations.
The summit focused on cultivating global
leadership skills for these students, which
can be incorporated back at their home
campuses. There was a workshop on
determining leadership strengths and
how they can be implemented with
the student organizations they are a
part of. There were also team building
activities, speakers and reflection groups

at the end of each day to discuss ideas

and learn about other cultures. In the
evenings, students had downtime to
explore St. Louis and get to know one
another. Everyone stayed in the dorms
at Eden Seminary across Lockwood.
For the final event, participants were
given Websters newly updated master
plan and tasked with creating proposals
that incorporated a global element.
They gave 10-minute presentations to
the administration, recommending a
leadership studies minor, which would
be offered at all campuses. They
discussed a program for staff to
work at other campuses for semester
or yearlong increments, among other
global initiatives. The proposals
encouraged students to brainstorm
ways in which Webster can function
as a worldwide institution.
When they arrived, all of these students
were complete strangers. They had
the opportunity to spend a week living
together and focusing on how they
could impact Websters future,
creating a global network through
the relationships they formed.

I want to express my gratitude towards

the reinvigorating experience that your
gathering made possible this week,
said Lobsang Dhundup Sherpa Subirana,
a student at the summit representing
Thailand. I depart nostalgically,
having learnt extensively from all of
your manners of viewing the world
and of affecting positive changes
amongst those within your reach.
The proposals recommended that
Webster continue having the summit
every two years. After the summit, the
students started an online group to
share thoughts and ideas about their
campus events and procedures, and to
foster communication among campuses.
With the continuation of the summit,
this could be an opportunity for
students to realize the global impact
they are capable of making.
Story & Photo by
Gaby Deimeke

35

G L O B A L / / T h e B e s t B o o z e A b ro a d

GLOBAL // Packing

Story by Dane Watkins

Photo by Lily Voss

Life is terrible. Life is terrible in America, in Asia, in Europe and probably even more
terrible in Antarctica. Fortunately, booze exists and makes life, if not less terrible,
more enjoyable. Alcohol has the magical ability to make us sit down, observe our
surroundings and be social in ways we never normally would. Whether studying
in London or Thailand, there is great booze to be had at a bar nearby.

Central Europe:

England:

Whether studying in Austria, Switzerland

or Holland, beer provides the baseline
for any night out. But for the serious
bier trinker, venture to a small hill outside
of Munich to the Weihenstephaner
brewery, the oldest brewery still in
existence. Weihenstephaner brews
their beer according to German purity
laws barley, malt, hops, water and
nothing else and still makes the finest
heffeweizen on any side of the Rhein.

Despite the interminable rain and the constant

references to proper football, London can
be the most welcoming place in the world.
Start this welcome with the Snakebite, a
mix of Guinness and hard cider that tastes
like a multilayered candy. Its also a great
way to start off any night on the cheap side,
especially at the right bars. There are also
fabulous alternative Snakebites, made with
Carling instead of Guinness, and with a
splash of grenadine, which turns the drink
pink. Good enough to suck through a straw.

For the more casual guzzler, Heineken

on tap in Amsterdam is worth a punt.
If the Dutch beer in the States has been
underwhelming, try it in its native habitat
its a whole new animal.

Thailand:
A tropical drink is no doubt
in order here. A Mai Tai for
breakfast, lunch or dinner
isnt a faux pas in the
slightest. But for something
that packs a little more
punch, adventure seekers
will need to take a dip in
a Thai Swimming Pool.
This cocktail is comprised
of vodka, rum, coconut,
fruit juice and the blue
curacao liqueur, which
gives it its distinctive
blue look. If anything,
it offers an alternative
to skunked beer and
contaminated water.

36 AMPERSAND // Spring 2015

When studying abroad, the only thing more timeconsuming than going through customs is packing
for the trip itself. Trying to cram everything in just to
discover that the whole sitting-on-the-suitcase trick
doesnt even work can be frustrating.
For those who want to avoid limiting their purchases
abroad to a few trinkets, remember to pack light by
only bringing whats necessary
passports, everyday
clothing and toiletries aside.
At all campus locations make sure to pack an overthe-shoulder bag or fanny pack, journal, quality water
bottle, converters (these arent cheap overseas) and a
camera. Specifically for the European campuses, make
sure to bring a sturdy umbrella, rain jacket, comfortable
but stylish shoes and clothes for layering. If visiting the
Thailand or Ghana campus is on the list, dont forget
bug spray, sanitary wipes, light clothes/fabrics, hat
(for sun protection) and a flashlight.
Story by Sierra Hancock
Photo by Latasha Dean

37

GLOBAL // Best Foods

London, Great Britain

Cha-Am, Thailand

Leiden, The Netherlands

Great Britain is not known for its

food. British plates are usually high
in carbs and bland in taste when
compared to savory French cuisines
like pastries, bread and cheese. Even
the names of British foods can leave
something to be desiredbangers
and mash tastes a lot better
than it sounds.

For those looking for a variety of

flavors, Webster Thailand is close to
plenty of intriguing food options.
One mouth-watering example is
Pad Thai, a noodle dish that blends
an intoxicating amount of salty,
sweet, sour and spicy ingredients.

Leiden travelers missing cheap,

American fast foods can find solace
in The Dner Company. The Dner
chain of restaurants began in the
Netherlands but serves Turkish
dner kebabs. Travelers on a
budget should try the Dner box,
a 3-euro combination meal of
fries and dner kebab. The kebab
is similar to a gyro, made up of
marinated beef or chicken and
topped with Dutch mayonnaise,
hot sauce, lettuce, cabbage,
onions, tomatoes and jalapeos.

Bangers and mash consists of sausage

links laid on a bed of creamy mashed
potatoes. This UK combo is often
slathered in gravy and presented
to many a pub-goer from Dublin
to London. But despite a bland look,
bangers and mash are anything
but tasteless. The creamy mashed
potatoes complement the juiciness of
the sausages nicely. Add a Guinness
to round out a traditional Irish meal.
For those unsure about trying a
food that looks a bit too mushy,
the British favorite of fish and chips
is everywhere. Pubs are known
for serving the best fish and chips.
The so-called fishy smell that
accompanies fish when prepared
other ways is nonexistent with fried
haddock and cod. Dont expect to
reach for the ketchup, though
tartar sauce is the typical condiment
for this dish across the pond.

Pad Thai is typically made up of rice

noodles, bean sprouts, eggs, scallions
and proteins, usually from a choice
of tofu, shrimp or chicken. Chili,
peanuts and a lime are usually
served on the side. When flavored
with fish sauce, garlic, sugar and
whatever else the chef decides to
throw in, the customer is treated
to an intense flavor experience.
The less adventurous traveler may
prefer a simple bowl of noodles.
Bowls of noodle soup are served all
over Thailand in small, family-owned
noodle shops. A small stand just
down the road from the Webster
students residence in Hua Hin serves
up a delicious bowl of thinly-sliced
pork, tom yum broth, crispy garlic,
bean sprouts, peanuts and noodles
topped with a hard-boiled egg. For
a dish that costs less than a dollar,
it beats Ramen noodles from back
home any day.

Additionally, those with a sweet

tooth should look for stroopwafels,
sweet treats available all around
the Netherlands. Stroopwafels
consists of two thin waffles held
together by a thick caramel sauce,
often accompanied by tea or coffee.
Stroopwafels are best served fresh
from vendors at the market on
Wednesdays and Saturdays.
Story by Allison Klinghammer
Photos by Alex Kendall
& Nicole Bonura

39

May 8 - July 31 2015

Opening Reception:
Friday, 8 May, 5-7 pm

Victoria A. Caswell
Justin Cunningham
Marissa Diekhoff
Kyle Florez
Mary Jo Harkins
Izaiah Johnson
Dusty Kessler
Chalon Knight
Mary Masurat
Ashley Pieper
Kristen Pruser
Emily Layne Reynolds
Jennifer Suntinger
Lily Voss
Domineque Nicole Wold