My Why WASB: Growing into My Badger Spirit

For me, answering the question “Why WASB?” is about reflecting on what drew me in and the gratitude I’ve held onto ever since.

Although I grew up in Minnesota, I’ve been a Badger since the day I was born. My parents met in Physics 103, and I’ve dreamt of continuing the Badger tradition for as long as I can remember. Growing up, I always formed unlikely connections when someone noticed me wearing my mom’s Wisconsin Alumni sweatshirt and excitedly struck up a conversation. After constantly bonding with strangers over this shared identity, I always knew I wanted to be a part of a community with such a contagious spirit.

When I began my first year of college, I came to campus armed with so much theoretical Badger spirit, but over time, I felt like I lacked the types of friendships that would make me feel genuinely connected to campus in the way I had hoped to be. I was deeply interested in the topics I learned about in my classes, and I loved the ability to go from exploring the greater Madison area to retreating to the summer-camp-esque vibe of my dorm in Kronshage. Still, I wanted to expedite the process of finding my people. Everything else about my college experience seemed to just click for me, but socially, I was relatively stuck in my introverted ways and needed a way out… fast.

Enter WASB! Mid-semester of my freshman year, I decided to attend an open house for the student organization that my older sister had been raving about since she joined two years prior. Despite feeling apprehensive about stepping on her toes, I was drawn in by the welcoming and enthusiastic atmosphere. I immediately got the sense that I would be able to find my own place in the group. After hearing more about WASB’s structure and membership requirements, I felt like this was an opportunity to really push myself out of my comfort zone.

Flash forward two years, and joining WASB has been one of the best decisions of my college experience. Though my older sister and I spent three semesters together on WASB, I have always felt like people truly see and value me for who I am, independent of the impact she made on this organization. No community is perfect, but this is a space where I can be myself, with people dedicated to supporting one another and facing challenges together. Among these 65 individuals, I have never felt such a strong sense of belonging, where the strength of our relationships pushes us to hold one another accountable as we collaborate on event planning, community outreach, and internal projects. Being able to share this with my sister only made it that much more meaningful. 

Beyond the social aspects, taking on new roles within WASB has helped me grow more confident in myself and my professional abilities. From figuring out how to align student voice with the Wisconsin Alumni Association brand as the Social Media Chair, to planning an event for the nation’s largest alcohol- and cost-free celebration on the All Campus Party Team, and now finding ways to revamp our blog as the WASBlog/Website Chair, I’ve gained valuable skills that translate well to my academic and career-related endeavors. Through the work that we do to connect Badgers past, present, and future, I am constantly reminded of what makes this school so special, and I get to help enhance that student experience for others. 

Though I was once able to joke with my hometown friends that I had an “incognito mode” in Madison, as I could easily go all day without seeing anyone I knew, WASB changed that for me in the best possible way. Since getting off the bus from my first retreat, I probably haven’t gone more than a couple of hours without seeing or hearing from a fellow member. WASB is what turned Madison from a place where I could blend into the crowd to one where I belong and can live out the Badger pride I grew up admiring. 

If you resonate with my story or are curious about WASB, join us for our WASB 101 info session on October 22nd. Applications open November 3rd—stay tuned!

By Ali Browne

Website/WASBlog Chair, Marketing Team

My Why WASB: Finding My Community in College

In high school, friends are often childhood pals who you’ve known for forever, people that have stood by you even through the awkward years of braces, and for some of us, maybe even a Hamilton phase. Thoughts of these people are comforting, as they have helped shape the person you are as you enter college. Coming to the University of Wisconsin as an out-of-state first year student, leaving this world of familiarity to enter a campus of 40,000 students is daunting and, at times, feels seemingly impossible. Maybe for the first time in your life, you have to “put yourself out there” and find your own community; which, in my experience, is an ongoing process that takes some effort and patience. 

For me, I had to try on a few (metaphorical) hats. Some hats matched my interests that I had always been aware of, like dancing and writing, but there was one that I saw as completely outside of my comfort zone, WASB, which is the hat that brings me here today writing you this WASBlog. WASBs’ mission is to connect Badgers past, present, and future, and we achieve this through planning events that help bring students together. Though I had never planned an event before, I chose to apply to WASB because as a first year I wasn’t quite sure where I belonged on this campus, and I am not sure why, but I felt for some reason that it could give me some clarity. However, as someone who is not always the loudest in the room, I didn’t know how I was going to navigate meeting 65 new people at once.  To further the hat metaphor, upon arriving to retreat at the beginning of my first semester sophomore year, I felt like WASB was a green fedora that felt a tad out of my comfort zone, but held the potential to be flattering. I quickly discovered that it didn’t matter that I was naturally quiet, because WASB suited me just as much as it did anyone else. Feeling new is nerve-racking, but I had never met a group of people that from the outset appeared so genuinely happy to include me and the rest of my member class into their community.

 There are no prerequisites to apply. All we ask is that you bring an open mind, and an enthusiasm for making people feel connected to campus. WASBs range from computer scientists to business Badgers, and we’ve got a diverse set of interests and hobbies that can be anywhere from radio show hosts to polar plunge enthusiasts, to me, a barista that is passionate about curly hair routines, cooking, and Stevie Wonder. All I can say is, there’s a place for you on campus, and if you’re interested, there is a place for you in WASB. So don’t wait to apply! Check out our application for Spring 2023 here, which closed December 1st. Freshmen may remember us from the W Project which occurs every September, but if you would like to meet us in person, you should stay up to date with our upcoming events!

By Ali Wagman

Blog Chair, Marketing Team

Advice for UW Students from Fellow WASB Seniors and Friends

Time is an incredibly precious and weird construct. Sometimes I get wrapped up in how little time we have for certain experiences. I have been so hyper-aware that we only get four years of college and have used this as a constant reminder to try new things and seek out new opportunities. 

Now that I only have a few weeks left of my college career, these feelings have only intensified as I try to soak up moments with my roommates and accrue special memories around campus. The pressure I place on myself to make the most of every opportunity can at times be anxiety-inducing and exhausting, but I love getting advice from knowledgeable people about new endeavors. I consulted a few of my fellow senior friends to ask what advice they would give to younger UW students and compiled some of their guidance and wisdom.

When it comes to academics, my friend Eamon Toye suggests “Don’t be afraid to try out different classes and major paths; it feels like everyone is trying to make you decide your future at 18 years old, but as someone that changed majors junior year and is still graduating on time, just take your time to find what you like.” I spent my first two years here as an undecided major and used that time to explore possible majors while satisfying general requirements. As someone who had virtually no idea what I wanted to do, I loved this time to explore classes and concepts to narrow down specific major paths. Although it feels like a huge challenge, college is truly a time to learn and soak up as much knowledge as possible rather than fixate on specific grades, majors, or GPA. Care about your classes and your learning but never dwell on a bad grade or exam; it is a learning experience and your future is and will always be bright.

My friend, Ben Kangas advises, “There will be moments in college where you may feel stuck, whether it's with your academic endeavors or social life, but there are always opportunities for change. It's about finding different interests or individuals that bring you passion and happiness.” 

By far, the most advice I received from my friends centered around friendships and involvement throughout college. Grace Luptak recommends, “Do as much as you can; play an intramural sport, join some clubs, lay in the grass by the Union. You think you’re stuck in college forever but then you blink and it’s almost over. You’ll never be upset about trying too many things!” 

My good friend and fellow WASB Brigetta Hartzell offered further input as she advised, “College is a time to start fresh, you can be whoever you want. I had a friend who had never played frisbee in her life but decided to try out and made the varsity team. It was the best decision of her life. As my grandpa says, ‘Don’t even think about it, just do it!’ Encourage yourself to engage in spaces you thought were out of reach, freshman year is all about trial and error.” She goes on to explain that during difficult times, it’s never too late to reflect and make a change.   

“At the same time, it's ok if you decide you don’t like where you’re at. You can remove yourself from those spaces if they are not serving you. You’re an adult! You have complete autonomy over what your life looks like now and it's important to honor your desires. Build up a community that supports you and gives you the energy to support others.” 

I agree wholeheartedly with Brigetta and Grace’s wisdom. During my freshman year, I joined several organizations and spaces including Greek life, club sports, and WASB. It took time to figure out which spaces benefitted me the most and where I felt the most comfortable. Embrace the spaces that value, support, and challenge you in the best ways.

Friendships will ebb and flow throughout college. There will be times when you feel fully loved and supported but there will inevitably be times you feel alone. Regarding friendships, Ruby Ulrich says, “Some friends and relationships are meant to be temporary or only last for a certain period and it’s okay to move on.” Another friend volunteered, “Know your worth and don’t settle for any less than that. Choose friends who you look up to, and who you feel safe around. College can feel so isolating and it may seem like everyone around you has all these friends and their life is so put together, but people change, our needs change, and it’s okay if you don't feel your community at UW yet. Sometimes it takes time to feel like you have found your people. Be patient with yourself, there are so many people out there who will love and empower you.”

My friend Brooke O’Connor helps put the timeline into perspective as she adds, “Do not give up hope that your “college experience” won’t be all you wanted it to be. For me, at least, every year was completely different and I couldn't have predicted any of it from freshman year. Your social life is what you make of it, but things also will fall in place naturally, it just takes time.” On a similar note, WASB President, Jackson Walker contributes, “Wisconsin is awesome but it’s okay to not always be having the best time. Just like life, college is hard and will have its ups and downs. Ride the wave and have faith in yourself.” 

On mental health, Ruby Ulrich adds, “Always prioritize your mental health over anything. You never know what other people are going through, try to be mindful, kind, and understanding.” She further offers, “Don’t beat yourself up over mistakes, everyone makes them and they will help you grow in the long run.” Self-care in college is absolutely essential, so take the time these four years to explore the best ways to take care of your physical and mental health. 

To wrap up the advice from my lovely and wise senior friends, I offer a quote from Molly Phelan, All Campus Party Director; “I think the biggest reminder I would give younger UW students is that the person you are today does not have to be the person you are tomorrow. College gives you the chance to play around with what you like, who you like, and how you spend your time. I would try on as many versions of yourself as possible because you should not be the same person you were when you entered this place. People will celebrate your authenticity, I promise you. 

“Also remember, nothing is that deep. That test you failed, you will still find a way to pass that class. That time you lost your credit card, you’ll get a new one. That friendship that crumbled, you will meet somebody who understands you better. All in due time. Don’t let the pitfalls consume you. Be present with your buddies. Explore the parts of Madison that are off the beaten path. Milk everything you can out of this city because before you know it, your time will be up.”

By Margo Kurth

All Campus Party Co-Chair

Prioritizing Wellness as a College Student

As college students, we all know that we encounter stress through school and our daily lives. I thought I would take this opportunity to shed some light on resources around campus and within Madison that help make those stressful moments a little more tolerable.

I always like to work through my stress with some sort of physical movement! Here are some of the free resources to utilize on campus for physical health. As a student, your access to any of the on-campus gyms is completely free. There are four fitness locations on campus: The Nicholas Recreation Center, The Shell, Nielsen Tennis Stadium, and the Holt Fitness Center. If you are in the market to get a good run, lift, walk, or shoot some hoops and you are located on the east side of campus, the Nicholas Recreation Center AKA “The Nick”, is the right place for you! The Nick is home to 30,000 square feet of fitness space, 8 courts, 5 studios, an Olympic size pool, and more! It has all your needs for both cardio and strength! With full lifting platforms, rows and rows of benches, a vast array of cardio equipment, and a track on the top level - the Nick has anything you may need for your workout. On top of all of its resources, the Nick is also home to racquetball courts, a turf area, and an Olympic-sized pool to get some laps in. If you feel as though you need some guidance in your journey, the Nick has various ways to help out! They offer various fitness classes, such as yoga, cycling, and strength, along with personal trainers. There is always someone to touch base with or lean on for support at the Nick! You can sign up to attend a class and pay a small fee, or get a semester fitness class membership.  

The Shell and Holt Fitness center may be a bit less glamorous than the Nick, but they have so many resources for students to get a good workout in, on the east side of campus! The Shell is attached to the side of Camp Randall and is a resource for lifting platforms, various cardio and lifting equipment, basketball courts, and an ice skating rink! Although it is a bit smaller, it is still a great resource for students! The Holt center gym is located in the center of the lakeshore dorms, just behind Showerman hall (A hall that is part of the Kronshage dorm system). It is the smallest fitness space of the four gyms and hosts a range of cardio and strength equipment! It caters to those in the lakeshore dorm area and is an extremely convenient workout space with the rebuilding of the previous gym that used to be located in that area! 

In the market for a friendly game of tennis or squash? That is where the Nielsen Tennis Stadium comes in handy, located near Dejope Residence hall ! Are you a beginner? No worries, with the 12 indoor tennis courts, two squash courts, equipment rental and racquet services, and a system to help you find a tennis partner, the Nielsen Tennis Stadium is here to support you in your fitness journey! Working out does not have to be running until your lungs burn or lifting the heavy weight until your legs burn- fitness can be a friendly (or not, your choice) game of tennis with your best friends! The Nielsen Tennis Stadium is always a great reminder of that! 

Are you looking for some outdoor options? I know it is tough to think about right now, but in the warmer months, there are so many options to choose from around Madison! Starting with the lakeshore path, you can go on a casual jog, walk, or bike through the beautiful Lakeshore Nature Preserve. If you are looking for something that is a bit more group friendly there are various tennis courts, sand volleyball courts, and a large turf area for use by students and community members alike. The majority of the outdoor sites are located on the east side of campus, with a few volleyball courts located over by the Kohl Center! In addition to the Lakeshore path, there is also the Madison Southwest Bike Path that is great for longer, bikes, runs, rollerblades, etc. The entirety of this path is paved, unlike the lakeshore path, so for those of you who like rollerblading, this is the path for you. This path offers a wide array of scenery ranging from greenery to campus buildings, all the way to lake Monona. 

However, I want to make it clear that although we have all of these wonderful resources for physical wellness, your mental wellness should always take the forefront. Physical wellness can help with the release of endorphins and can be a good way to work through some stressful emotions, but always remember to take care of your mental wellness! 

By Molly Nooyen

Campus Community Engagement Director

Why and Where to Eat Local in Madison

As a student, it can be hard to find food options that are accessible, high-quality, and budget-friendly. Sometimes, a meal has to be whatever you can find the fastest, cheapest, and easiest; often just seen as one more task to get “done” on a busy day. But, when considering your choice as a consumer, local restaurants can meet your needs and more. They are definitely worthwhile, often having tastier food and a higher value for the money spent. This blog post will discuss the value of choosing to support local restaurants in the Madison area when you decide to eat out, highlighting some amazing places to eat near campus!

Student life can get very busy, therefore efficiency is usually the highest priority in making decisions about food. A student’s budget is also a huge factor that comes into consideration when making food choices. When you choose to eat out at a chain restaurant, it may feel more efficient and cheap, but that is not always the case, and it is not always the most satisfying. With a lot of chain restaurants opening up on State Street in the past couple of years, it brings both competition for local restaurants and an important choice for students and other potential restaurant patrons to make. For example, whether to get Chipotle, Cane’s, Jimmy Johns or to stop by locally-owned Chen’s Dumpling House, Estacion Inka, or Parthenon Gyros to name a few. Although some items on the menu at these local restaurant examples may be out of the average student’s normal budget, all three of them offer more reasonably priced dishes along with fast, high-quality service.

At Estacion Inka, located on University Ave., you can get bang for your buck with daily Lunch Specials where you can get one of their signature dishes like Pollo a la Brasa con Arroz Blanco y Frijoles Negros (Grilled Chicken with White Rice and Black Beans) for $8.99. The classic Gyro at Parthenon, located on State St., is jam-packed with the flavors of their house-made ingredients, is $9.95, and Chen’s Dumplings has an extensive menu with lots of options for very reasonable prices.

Dining locally, as opposed to chain restaurants, has many benefits. When you choose a local restaurant you are investing in the community. And oftentimes, you will find more fresh and higher quality ingredients–likely from local sources– and a personal experience and a connection with your community members. So the next time you are thinking about eating out, consider going local for great food and valuable connections.

WASB’s own Sophie Rewey has developed an appreciation for local businesses through her job at Short Stack Eatery. Rewey finds it beneficial to work at an independent establishment because it allows for flexibility, support, and collaboration among and between staff and management. When considering the employee experience in the service industry, which Rewey has provided some insight into, there is an aspect of accountability that comes with being a business owner in your local community that you also share with your employees. Rewey finds that working in a non-corporate business makes it “easier to communicate the staff’s needs to [her] boss and managers.” In local restaurants, employees and managers work more closely and have the opportunity to connect and collaborate more deeply and independently than

perhaps chain restaurants that are overseen by large management bodies that are disconnected from the nearby community.

Rewey argues that the high quality of food and drink at Short Stack makes it worth a couple of extra dollars. In a thoughtful consideration of cost, Rewey commented that, although, “it can cost more than a chain restaurant, [...] supporting local businesses is healthier for you and [supports] local industry.” A large majority of food and drink ingredients at Short Stack are from local Madison organizations and farms, in addition to their pastries and bread made in-house or locally sourced. Because of this, Rewey argues that the quality of food at Short Stack and other local restaurants is much better than that of their chain counterparts. Investing in your local community is worthwhile for the high quality and freshness of food in your meal, and for the greater good. Sophie Rewey’s favorite thing on the menu is a tie between the sweet potato short stack and the breakfast sammy on the Stella’s Roll. Short Stack Eatery is located on the corner of W. Johnson St. and N. Henry St.

And finally, here is a collection of some WASB members’ favorite local restaurants in Madison:

One of Ava Schumway’s favorite places on campus is Taiwan Little Eats, on State St., and she loves the popcorn chicken meal. Ave also recommends breakfast at Sunroom Cafe & Machiques City Restaurant and Bassett Street Brunch Club.

Anna Staresinic highly recommends Madison Sourdough near the east side of Madison, for the best sourdough loaves ever.

Claudia Delgado’s recommendations for delicious local eats are Sol's on the Square, Korean food on E. Mifflin St. or Ha Long Bay for Thai food, and Buraka for Ethiopian food, both located on E. Williamson St.

Danielle Anderson’s favorite spot is The Globe, on N. Henry St., and her favorite thing on the menu is the Tic-tac Curry with Tofu.

Elena Tomchek recommends Ramen Kid, on Gilman St., and her order is the Shoyu Ramen.

And finally, I highly recommend Dotty Dumpling’s Dowry located on N. Frances St. for the best burgers in town, or Gotham New York Bagels & Eats on E. Mifflin St. for the most delicious bagel breakfast sandwich.

By Sara Browne

CCE Team, Bucky’s Wellness Workshop Co-Chair