Hello my name is Elsie Dirkx bringing you three intriguing stories about rooster realizations, campus cuisine, and motivational mentors.
Why does the rooster gobble to himself in the mirror? Roosters indicate signs of self-awareness and have challenged the traditional mirror test. In a modified New York Times experiment, despite failing the conventional test, roosters displayed potential self-awareness by reacting to predators with their alarm calls. This study shows the limitations of the classic mirror test and advocates for ecologically relevant approaches to evaluate self-awareness in various species. In an interview with Abraham Dirkx, a previous chicken owner, he answers the question, what does he feel is the significance of roosters being self-aware? … Still poses the question, why does the rooster gobble to himself in the mirror? BECAAUUSE!
Roosters may be aware of their reflections but is Morningside aware of their gluten and diary-free students?
In the ever-evolving landscape of campus dining, Morningside students with gluten and dairy intolerances have faced a culinary challenge as slim as a wafer-thin cracker. In most recent years there has been an increase in special dietary needs. In 2023 Morningside cafeteria finally created a space for gluten and dairy free options. Staff are learning ways to cater to needs like new desserts and whipping up specialty pizzas when there is nothing else. Lydia Thams shares her journey navigating the scarcity of options and how it shapes her day-to-day campus life… Offering gluten and dairy-free options supports the overall well-being of the student population.
Overall well-being of students needs to be a priority of educational institutions this is why Morningside has a peer mentoring program.
Who are those people that make college feel less like a maze and more like a choose-your-own-adventure? This is the role of a peer mentor. Mentors offer relatable guidance on academic resources, extracurricular activities, and overall college experiences, helping social and academic integration. They are empathetic listeners, and provide emotional support, creating a sense of community and belonging. By sharing personal experiences, mentors motivate a smoother transition and enhance the overall student experience. I spoke with Deontez Williams a Morningside student who has been the recipient of this service to get a first hand experience….
Again this was Elsie Dirkx bringing you three intriguing stories, that’s all folks.