In this episode, college student Jaice Abraham investigates the importance of walkability on a college campus and how it can impact students’ quality of life. Jaice invites several University of Illinois students to recount what their lives in their hometowns were like without access to a car, and many expressed feeling trapped and socially restricted. Jaice contrasts this to the lifestyle that may be present on walkable college campuses by talking about how walkable college campuses. Jaice asks students to share how they feel being able to walk to places easily, contributing to the social and academic environment of the campus. Many spoke about the new freedom they hold to socialize, spend free time how they want in a walkable campus community. Finally, Jaice concludes the episode by speaking on the economic, environmental, and social benefits walkability can bring to American cities.

In this episode, Chris Yang showcases Illinois Mock Trial Team, a registered student organization at University of Illinois. Illinois Mock Trial simulates a real trial and students can portray 2 roles: an attorney or a witness. Chris and participants of Mock Trial chat about how they juggle both having fun and competing to have successful outcomes. Chris asks students about their motivations for joining the RSO and gives them a chance to share some of their favorite memories of being a part of the group. Since Mock Trial’s requires a major time commitment, Chris explores how much mock trial becomes a focus point in university life.  We will talk about the differences between invitational and regular season and what different teams do before tournament weekends to prepare and deal with nerves.

Key Words: Mock Trial, Law, RSO, Environment, Competition

In this episode, college student and frequent gym-goer Thomas Locke explores how “gymtimidation”, or intimidation of going to the gym, impacts the experiences of college students and what they do to overcome these feelings of uncertainty and discomfort. Have you ever felt intimidated to go to the gym? If you are intimidated to go to the gym you aren’t alone–– it is quite common, especially when you first go. In college, many individuals decide to explore the gym as a way to release stress and remain healthy, but often face the obstacle of intimidation. Thomas interviews a range of new and experienced gym-goers to gain perspective on this situation. Many say that those with more experience are not judging new people, but instead they are supportive of the fact that they are venturing to the gym. This episode explains the universal experience of gym intimidation, and offers encouragement to those currently facing it.

Key Words: Fitness, Health, Intimidation, Gym-going