Saffa Khan

Opinion

Why I'm not a 'first-year' student

By Saffa Khan | November 29

Freshman or first-year? Our class will probably never reach a consensus on the issue of our collective status. The reason for this polarizing debate is the same reason for all arguments nowadays: discrimination in the form of sexism. To some, the fact that “freshman” is used without any corresponding feminine term is an appalling representation of the ongoing subjugation of women, even in the 21st century. To them, “first-year” is preferable because it is sexless, and therefore a moderate alternative. The cause for change is understandable but irrational.

Opinion

The population we can all hate

By Saffa Khan | November 8

In the quaint little town of Chapel Hill, nestled in the bucolic milieu, is a population of millions that are oft neglected, or at least until they cause a commotion. They roam freely in the lounges, the bathrooms, the classrooms, the dining halls — they are everywhere. They don’t pay tuition or taxes or dues of any sort. Their only contribution to society is the misery they evoke.

Opinion

Love is more than just a bagel

By Saffa Khan | October 26

Next, please! One sun-dried tomato bagel with cream cheese and hot sauce. Toasted? Yes, please. For here or to go? To go. This little exchange costs me $2.53 every single time, but it’s always worth it. When you’re starved, and ravaged by hunger, where do you go? To “the Alps,” as I like to call it. There’s usually a terribly long and daunting line, but you persevere — it’s the hunter-gatherer instinct in you.

Opinion

Time to converse outside of comfort

By Saffa Khan | October 11

Sometimes there’s a lull in those passing conversations in which the speakers involved experience a moment of hesitation, painfully highlighted by a scream of silence in the midst of mundane sounds.

Opinion

Gauging how we judge others

By Saffa Khan | September 28

Like any freedom, college is a test of good judgment.

Opinion

Freshmen, you are the school's foundation

By Saffa Khan | September 13

Dear upperclassmen: We all know what you’re thinking when you see us. We’ve seen you smirk when we get lost and ask for directions or when we ask you for advice about classes. We can read your minds and hear your thoughts — they’re screaming “FRESHMAN.”

Opinion

An unhealthy free food fixation

By Saffa Khan | August 30

Hello, “Freshman Fifteen.” I expected the scary professors, I was warned about the dorms, I was even mentally prepared to get lost.