INTERVIEWS
Insightful and diverse interviews by our student journalists.
JUNE 2020 ARTICLES
SELF IMPROVEMENT INTERVIEW WITH A TURKISH UIC STUDENT
by Alizah Bolar
Against the bustling hubbub of our lives, politics is an unwavering undercurrent that meanders through unnoticed. Until it is brought to the forefront by issues that demand our undivided attention and unconditional compassion, we don’t fully comprehend the impact of sociopolitical matters and the toll they take on us. To deconstruct this subject, a fellow UIC student lays bare a compelling outlook.
Q. Hello! Thank you for agreeing to this interview - please give us a brief introduction of yourself!
Hi! I’m Dilara, a very awkward girl from Turkey. I’m in the HASS department and I aspire to major in STP and minor in who-knows because I want to do many things and am very indecisive. I really enjoy writing and would love to get a work of mine published someday (if I could actually finish one, that is). I also enjoy watching YouTube videos and looking after plants!
Q. Given the recent political atmosphere, you’ve been quite politically active on your social media - using your platform to voice your opinions and raise awareness. Do you believe political awareness is an aspect of self-improvement? If yes, how so?
I definitely believe that raising our own political awareness and using our voice to speak up about matters regarding politics is important for self-improvement. Politics is something that affects our lives greatly; even though it may feel like it is only in the background, it is essentially what pulls the strings of our rights and freedom that apply to our daily life. In that sense, I think that being able to know and differentiate which strings are being pulled, which strings are being neglected and which strings are getting tangled, is very important. To know this, we need to pay attention, which will eventually build up awareness.
Q. How do you keep yourself in the know regarding political matters? Do you have any tips and suggestions for people looking to be more politically and socially aware?
I come from a family that watches the news every single day, so I’d say that is what created the habit of keeping up with things. Being interested in such matters also helps. Honestly, I’d definitely suggest dedicating at least half an hour every day to look at the news for starters. However, looking at only one source is not enough. If someone watches the news from one network, they should read the news from another. They should also not be shy of looking at news/activist pages on social media! Since freedom of press and freedom of speech is also a worldwide problem at this point, what makes it to the news on TV or newspapers tend to be gravely different than what the usual population talks about. To get an even better grasp at things, I’d suggest checking out news sources and activists from different countries/communities as they provide an insight into different stances! Plus, everyone should practise their empathy as it is extremely important, and for that having conversations with people that get affected first-hand from political and social matters and actually listening to them is a great place to start.
Q. There have been arguments surfacing that issues like the Black Lives Matter movement and police brutality are problems specific to America. But, at their heart, these issues concern the sensitive, far-reaching topics of equality and unchecked political power. In such cases, how does someone unaffected by these matters support those involved? What would you do to foster empathy?
This is a difficult question. I’m sure I’m not perfect at supporting causes I believe in that do not affect me first-hand, but I genuinely try, and I think that is what truly counts! We all have to start from somewhere—none of us are perfect at square one and, for that matter, none of us will truly be perfect. There is a saying in Turkish that I really like that can be translated as “Not knowing is not a shame, not learning is” and I think it applies really well to this situation. You may make mistakes even though you mean good, either because certain things that you thought were right are wrong, because you are physically far from the turmoil, or simply because of your past ignorance or lack of knowledge. You may get called out on these mistakes. But, instead of retracting from the issue at hand completely, you should observe and learn from your mistakes. The next step you take and the next words you speak will inevitably be cleaner and better than before, and if they are still faulty, then you (and I, and everybody for that matter) should learn again! It all applies to all of us. As for fostering empathy, I think through educating ourselves and practising awareness, recognition will start forming or continue to form, and that will inevitably bring empathy. Or, what I like to remember is that the people who are affected are as human as I am. Humans with potential, emotions, dreams, needs and rights. That fact alone usually does it for many.
Q. Often, socio-political matters of contention deal with heavy topics, which take a psychological toll on us. Have there been times when you’ve felt burdened by the current state of affairs?
For sure. These past 2 weeks where I’ve been active in the Black Lives Matter movement and from the first-hand experience, years 2015-2017 were an especially burdensome time frame as someone from the Middle East. Truly, though, it feels like a sociopolitical burden is something that weighs heavy on our shoulders globally and constantly.
Q. As social media is the most common breeding ground for political discourse, do you sometimes feel the need to “log off” or disengage from these potentially toxic spaces?
I do. Some people may not agree with me, but I genuinely think that is okay. What matters for me (I can’t speak for other people) is that you do not ignore the problems while you take a breather. Keep the issues in your thoughts. Keep looking at your preferred sources to update yourself. Keep yourself aware. But when the urge to speak up comes again, be sure to do it instead of giving in to the comfort of not being out there because that usually ends up feeding the problem.
Q. What are some ways in which you practise self-care and preserve your mental health in times of political turmoil?
I kind of lack in that department, in general, to be honest, but for me, I find that physical affection really helps. I love giving love and being loved, so I usually find myself hugging people I care about since it makes me feel safe (so not being able to do it right now is quite annoying). Another way I care for myself and my mental health is through writing: whether it be a journal entry, where everything is uncensored, or a piece of fiction, that will surely be an escape from reality for a few hours, I definitely rely on expression through words and I would highly suggest journalling! This might sound weird, but I also think cold temperature really helps me. I find myself drinking cold beverages, handling cold things like ice, or washing up with cold water. The shock/fresh feeling helps, so I would suggest that to people who are not affectionate nor into writing if anybody needs some ideas :)
Q. Are there any words of encouragement or hope you’d like to share for people directly impacted by the political happenings around them?
When we stand in solidarity, our voice is louder and stronger than any kind of negativity could ever be. It may be tiring and it may feel lonely, but those that stand in solidarity are here for you. So close your eyes and take three deep breaths, make sure to take good care of yourself for us. You are never alone.
For the unaffected: do not stop practising and spreading awareness. Let’s reclaim our mind if we have to. Let’s work our way to respectful coexistence and understanding by seeing, hearing, observing and learning. Let’s practice empathy and strive to better ourselves because it is when we say “we’ve done it” that we block our true potential.
INTERVIEW WITH A UIC STUDENT LIVING IN THE DORMS
by Gayatri Patel
Q. Due to this coronavirus pandemic what has changed for you personally?
All of my classes are online, but the classes that I am taking are mainly participation based, exam based, focused on memorization. I am currently taking a Social Engagement class which has turned into an online video making course. I am having a hard time with my social life with the cafeteria being closed, I am cooking by myself. I also won’t be able to go back to my country with the borders being closed.
Q. What are you doing in your free time?
I am either reading books, or watching movies on Netflix. I am also trying to exercise, but I haven’t been very successful.
Q. Do you think that this pandemic has helped with your self-improvement?
I think I have improved my eating habits as I haven’t been eating food from the convenience stores. I feel that I am living a more healthy lifestyle. Although, my sleep schedule hasn’t improved that much. However, I am more productive now because the content of the online courses is a little tough to understand so I am teaching myself some of the new topics in class. The main reason being that most of my professors are teaching through narrated lectures instead of teaching live. This experience has helped me differentiate things that I took for granted, now I am doing myself.
Q. Are there any other things you want to improve on during this pandemic?
I would definitely like to improve on my physical health, and my sleep schedule. I think that falling asleep at night is a little tough. While living alone sometimes it's easy to lose track of time and so my sleep schedule has been fluctuating.
Q. What really inspired you to spend more time cooking?
The main reason I am spending more time cooking is because of my mom. She strictly told me not to go outside because she is very worried about me especially because of this pandemic. During the summer time I have some health conditions that flare up. Due to these conditions I try to stick to my normal routine that I had in my country. I mostly cook meals that I used to have if I were in my country which helps me maintain my health. This is actually helping me a lot, as I try to cope with this pandemic with a positive mindset. I feel much healthier compared to the past semester and I feel more full by eating the meals that I make.
MAY 2020 ARTICLES
THE SELF IMPROVEMENT JOURNEY OF A YONSEI STUDENT
by Alizah Bolar
Often we hear the word “self-improvement” thrown around a lot — but what is it? Most people’s understanding of this term differs based on what they consider influential to their growth as individuals. Its range is vast and varied — from eating healthier, leading a more active lifestyle, to simply enriching yourself by reading more books, engaging in different cultures, meeting new people, etc. To give us more insight about what this means to one of our fellow UIC students, Paul Lee (class of 19.5, Underwood Division), who is currently at home in the UK due to COVID-19, graciously indulged his thoughts on the matter.
Q. How have you been keeping yourself busy in this period of quarantine — what are some things/activities you like to do to unwind?
To pass the time during quarantine, I have been reading a lot more and exercising frequently. I have also started my own online business where I help independent musicians with the marketing side of the music industry. Exercising, in my opinion, is one of the best ways to unwind. Creating music is also something I like to do during my spare time. These activities challenge me in a good way and thus help me take my mind off stress.
Q. What’s self-improvement to you? How would you describe your self-improvement journey?
Self-improvement, to me, is about adding value to yourself in every aspect possible - socially, academically, athletically, etc. Improving every aspect will lead to a happier and more balanced lifestyle. Although it does fluctuate from time to time, overall it is a positive trend. Sometimes I can be in situations where I can’t really focus on ‘self-improvement.’ This could be due to where I am, what is available around me, and most importantly the people that I socially hang around with.
Q. What motivated you to begin your self-improvement journey — was there any event in your life that propelled you to want to change yourself?
Nothing, in particular, to be honest. Surprisingly, I have always wanted to improve myself for the better. I think as you grow up you realise that there are always things you aren’t ‘naturally gifted’ at. However, everyone is given the choice to improve — so why not be the best of who you can be?
Q. Are there times when you felt like you’ve regressed or reverted to a version of yourself that you don’t want to be?
Like I said above, my self-improvement journey has been up and down. Sometimes I put too much on my own plate, but knowing your limits and taking goals one at a time should, in the future, stop me from reverting to old habits.
Q. Are there any habits characterising your self-improvement? What are some changes you’ve seen in yourself in the past year or overtime that you’re proud of?
Being consistent and following a schedule, in my opinion, is the best way for self-improvement. There are limited numbers of hours in a day: planning and executing a schedule consistently will give you ‘extra’ time to improve and explore different activities for ‘self-improvement,’ while maintaining a balanced life. Moreover, I do not overthink anything anymore. If there is something I want to achieve or complete, then I will just do it. I have also started spending more money to treat myself to books, lessons, investments, etc. while reducing purchases on lavish/useless material. Ideally, I want to live a balanced life while still being able to learn and try new activities.
THE WEIGHT-LOSS JOURNEY OF A KOREA UNIVERSITY STUDENT
by Jungmin Park
Self-improvement takes a lot of effort and time. One of the typical self-improvements is "dieting", and it is a trend amongst many in their 20s, especially in Korea, spreading through various media such as SNS and the Internet. Many people fail, but here is one who has succeeded in his diet.
Q. Hi! It's a pleasure to meet you! Please introduce yourself!
A: Hi, I'm a sophomore in Korea-University.
Q. There must be a lot of restrictions on your activities because of the Corona-virus. What are you doing these days?
A: I take online classes, do assignments, and often get some delivery food. I'm just spending my time like other students. Ah, I have been working out steadily, going to the gym and continuing to work out in rowing club.
Q. You exercise regularly! Then you are not one of 확찐자s(It refers to people who gained weight during the corona crisis.) during the corona crisis! When did you start working out? How did you decide to exercise?
A: I started a rowing club in freshman year and started exercising for diet in earnest last summer. The reason I started to go on a diet is that I found out that I had an atrial fibrillation through a medical checkup last summer. And on the news that it might affect the continuation of the rowing club, I decided to go on a diet. Since then, I am continuing exercising and keeping a healthy weight.
Q. I heard that diet requires painstaking efforts. It must be tough some times! Please tell me how you successfully lost weight and give me some advice!
A: I lost approximately 10kg (84kg to 71) over three months. Many people say diet control forms nearly 80% of the diet, but I put more emphasis on exercise. Because I got too stressed out controlling my diet. Therefore, I increased the time for aerobic exercise, which is effective in getting rid of body fat. To add, I recommend you to try various aerobic exercises and find one that fits you. For example, running is the most representative aerobic exercise, but it can strain your knees. In my case, running hurt mine, so I tried various other sports such as cycling, stepper(stair-climbing machine) and swimming. I found out that the stepper fits me best, and I am still riding the stepper regularly.
Q. Were there any slumps or yoyo dieting during your diet?
A: The time always comes when you are unavoidably forced to get away from exercise, or eat food that interferes with your diet, for example, holidays or trips. At this time, for me, I gained weight again for a while. But I came back in a short time when I get back on track after holidays. What I'd like to say here is that sometimes when this period comes, don't be too obsessive to control diet or forced to exercise. Unless you are a person who needs to be on a diet professionally, you should care more about your happiness since diet is for yourself, not for others. I think it is a ridiculous situation to be on a diet even by suppressing your joy. I do not mean you can binge-eat, but to tell you not to be too obsessed with the fear of yoyo dieting and just enjoy it!
Q. What's the good thing about losing weight?
A: Firstly, atrial fibrillation got better. Positive changes in appearance can be one. However, the sense of accomplishment that I have succeeded in diet is a much bigger result to me. The confidence that I can do something on my own made me more self-esteemed too.
Q. Do you have any future plans of dieting?
A: Because of the corona situation, I couldn't go out for a while and stayed at home, ordering delivery food quite often. So, I gained a weight a little. Since the corona crisis is alleviating, I will start my diet again and try to regain my healthier version of my body.