From Bascom Hall to Steenbock Library: Which TV/Movie Characters are UW Campus Buildings?

Previous WASBlogs have touched on topics that emphasize the connectedness this organization fosters and thrives on. Sure, this is deep, but they haven’t been hitting a serious topic that one might expect from a WASB member writing a blog: what TV and movie characters represent different UW-Madison campus buildings? Writing this blog allows me to not only answer this question for myself, but also for all those on campus!  

333 East Campus Mall - Jake The Dog, “Adventure Time” 

In the hit cartoon series, “Adventure Time,” we follow Jake the Dog and Finn the Human on their adventures throughout the land of Ooo. Time and time again, Jake and Finn are asked to save the land from different monsters and issues that have plagued it for centuries. Jake the Dog has the special power to stretch into any shape or size, showing his true ability to adapt to any situation. 333 East Campus Mall demonstrates this same ability by meeting student needs. 333 East Campus Mall houses the University Health Services, a free healthcare service for students, the Student Activity Center, which includes a large study space and many student organizations, the Office of the Registrar, and more. 333 East Campus Mall, just like Jake the Dog, is there for you with any issue you may have and, time and time again, will save the day. 

Steenbock Memorial Library - Josie, “Bottoms” 

A favorite movie among many WASB members is “Bottoms.” In this film, Josie, played by Ayo Edebiri, is quiet and reserved, feeling as though she is unseen. Similarly, Steenbock Memorial Library is not often a library many students choose to utilize, or even know of. In “Bottoms,” Josie and her best friend, PJ, create a fight club for women to win over their crushes, Isabel and Hazel. In the end, Josie wins the heart of her crush, Isabel, but she had to go through a lot to do so. Steenbock Library, once given a chance by students, just like Josie, can win over your heart. It might be a little out of the way, but that does not mean it isn’t a great, quiet library that can help you get through finals season.

Education Building - Santana Lopez, “Glee”

In the hit late 2000s, early 2010s series, “Glee,” Santana Lopez was, in my opinion, the star character. She was by far the funniest and most talented member of the cast. If challenged to a singing competition, she almost always won. Similar to Santana, the Education school here at UW-Madison is ranked the best in the nation by US News. Additionally, the program’s prowess is matched by the beauty of the education building itself, which, in my personal opinion, is one of the best buildings on campus. Both of these legendary icons – The Education building and Santana Lopez – are the cream of the crop in their respective categories. 

Bascom Hall - Carrie Bradshaw “Sex and The City”

When writing this blog, I couldn’t help but wonder, how does Bascom Hall do it all? 

In the HBO series “Sex and the City,” Carrie Bradshaw is often seen balancing her career with her personal life, writing her column while still making time for interesting adventures with friends. Given her exciting social life, Carrie seems to be connected to everyone in New York City. Similarly, as the main fixture of campus, Bascom Hall is deeply connected to the Badger community and houses the offices of many departments and important figures, such as the chancellor and the dean of students. Just like Carrie Bradshaw, Bascom Hall can do it all.

The Wisconsin Alumni Association - Katara, “Avatar: The Last Airbender”

The building home to the Wisconsin Alumni Association and WASB is located right on the water of Lake Mendota. When WASBs need a place to go so they can feel connected and at peace (and inevitably run into other WASBs), they end up here, at the “A-House.” That dependable sense of comfort mirrors the role that Katara plays in the series “Avatar: The Last Airbender.” Katara is a water bender, meaning she can manipulate water and ice to defend herself and heal others. When Team Avatar was looking for a feeling of home, they often turned to Katara, their reliable, kind, water-bending friend, who was always there to be their warmth, just like The Wisconsin Alumni Association.

I hope you enjoyed these connections I made! Good luck with Finals!

By Drew Jacobs

Service Days Co-Chair, Campus and Community Engagement Team

Let’s Talk: Applying to WASB

I’ve spent the last two weeks putting off writing this blog post. As a senior and now a team director on WASB, thinking back to the application process — and all the nerves that came with it — fills me with a kind of bittersweet nostalgia. While reading through past WASBlog posts for inspiration, I came across one written by a WASB alum I’ve never met. What she said stuck with me: “Sometimes I get wrapped up in how little time we have for certain experiences.” That line hit home. As I reflect on my college experience, one thing stands out above the rest — the thing that’s made Madison feel like home and showed me what it truly means to be a Badger: WASB. My 5 semesters on WASB (wow, saying that makes me feel old!) have flown by, and that quote reminds me of how short our time on campus is. This is the exact reason why getting involved in student organizations like WASB is worth it! You never know how these experiences will shape your college experience until you take the first step and join.

I applied to WASB during the second semester of my freshman year. I was bright-eyed and eager after meeting some of the general members, and I felt like I’d found a group of people I could truly be myself around — people who wanted to make a difference on campus just as much as I did. What I didn’t expect was to gain a support system of sixty-four others who would shape my college experience in ways I couldn’t imagine. I still remember meeting my Badger Buddy, Carly Shindler, after my second interview. She welcomed me with open arms and treated me as if we’d known each other for years. WASB has given me memories I’ll cherish for life and people I’ll keep in my circle long after my time at UW.

Eli and Carly :)

Applications for this year close on November 23rd. The process might seem daunting at first, but taking it one step at a time makes it much easier. The application is designed to get to know you — your interests, your perspective, and how you approach collaboration on larger projects. Be honest. Be reflective. Don’t worry about being the “perfect candidate.” What we’re looking for most is passion and potential — the drive to make an impact on campus and beyond. 

When I first read one of the application questions asking me to choose a topic I could give a 40-minute TED Talk on with little to no preparation, I was stumped. Sitting in my freshman dorm, bouncing ideas off my roommate, it suddenly clicked—music. It’s part of my everyday life, and one band in particular has shaped my world since childhood: The Grateful Dead. I ended up using all 250 words to write about them and their lasting impact on psychedelic rock. What made it meaningful wasn’t just recounting the band’s history but connecting it to my own story—how their music has influenced my outlook, creativity, and even the way I connect with others. 

After applications are submitted, WASB members review them, and those who stand out are invited to interview with the executive board of directors. It’s a formal interview, but it’s also a chance for us to see your personality — what makes your gears turn and what excites you. 

So, why is it worth it? My answer could go in a lot of directions. You’ll gain leadership experience, whether as a general member or a director. You’ll have room to explore your creativity, to take ownership of events, and to make them your own. You’ll see the real impact of your work and how your time and energy help make campus a more connected, welcoming place. But most importantly, you’ll find a sense of belonging. 

Before joining WASB, I was just another student at Madison. After joining, I found a purpose and a reason to proudly call myself a Badger. 

If you’ve ever thought about applying, do it. You don’t have to have it all figured out; I know I certainly didn’t. All you need is a willingness to learn, to grow, and to show up. We’d love to see your application. 

By Eli Rhoades

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Director

Rugbies Off, Jerseys On: Highlighting Our Club Sport Athletes

Throughout my life, I've explored many passions, but there was one in particular that stuck. The love I have for the sport of lacrosse (lax) is unconditional. Since I began playing 10 years ago, it’s been my outlet and something I always look forward to as a way to release my anxiety. In middle and high school, I was excited about all things lacrosse, all the time—even if it meant waking up at 7 a.m. only to lose a tournament in the pouring rain. This sport has given me some of my best friends in the world, and has taught me the values of collaboration, confidence, and resilience. As my first semester of college approached in August of 2023, I knew I wasn’t ready to give up playing the sport I had leaned on. 

Enter the University of Wisconsin Women’s Club Lacrosse Team! The moment I tried out for the team here at UW-Madison, I was hooked. I have been a dedicated member of the Bucky travel team since my first semester on campus, and I am now a junior serving as co-vice president on our executive board. Practicing three times a week, combined with traveling on weekends, can become stressful, but I wouldn’t change a thing. Representing a distinguished university, whilst playing alongside a group of highly talented, intelligent, and determined individuals has been nothing short of incredible. The uplifting community we’ve created by supporting and having fun with each other on and off the field makes any stress of being a club sport athlete worth it. 

An unexpected highlight during my time on WASB so far has been connecting with fellow members over our involvement in club sports. Sophomore Andy Walker is a setter on the Men’s Club Volleyball Team, and sophomore Zoe Cole plays goalie on the Women’s Club Hockey Team. I spoke with them about being involved in a sport on campus and how it plays into their college lives. As I briefly mentioned, the stress of our schedule mixed with other obligations can accumulate, to which Andy provides a notable perspective: “When I remind myself that I am going to practice because I love playing my sport, all the stress tends to go away. Playing volleyball makes me happy, and I shouldn’t be worried about the time when I choose to do something that I’ll enjoy.” Zoe adds, “Coming into my freshman year, club hockey gave me a routine.” To me, that’s what it’s all about. Being able to have a structured escape from schoolwork for a couple of hours is something I’ve come to appreciate.

Although vastly different in the work we do, I have noticed that WASB and club sports are more similar than you might think—they both require accountability, for example. Uniquely, all three of our teams are student-led. Though she is not an executive member, Zoe translates her leadership skills from sports to her role on WASB, explaining that “on my team, every player has to take on more responsibility and contribute to the team in whatever way they can. Similarly, on WASB, just picking up the little things when working on our events can make everyone else’s life a little easier!”

So many of the experiences we have on campus complement each other. WASB is a team sport in its own way. We collaborate, lift each other up, and have fun while doing it! Andy believes that WASB has given him more values that he uses as tools in club sports: “WASB has shown me that being a positive person is good for everyone around me and myself.” It's amazing how the communities we find ourselves in can have such a positive impact on our lives.

If you want to see these WASBies swap their rugbies for jerseys, you’re in luck! Come support my team at University Bay Fields on November 15th, Andy and his accomplished team at the Bakke on December 6th, and Zoe’s team at the Bakke on November 15th-16th. You can find the game schedules on our team Instagram pages:  @wiscowomenslax  | @wiscmensclubvb |  @womenshockey_uw 

Lastly, shoutout to every one of my teammates past, present, and future ;) you all inspire me.

By Maya Kannel

Lake Street Bash Co-Chair, All Campus Party Team

WASBs Come Home: A Celebration of Connection

On October 12th, Professional Connections Team co-chairs Elliot Richer and Claire An hosted the fourth annual “WASBs Come Home” event, welcoming 22 incredible UW-Madison alumni back to campus for an afternoon of reuniting and reconnecting at The Great Dane.  Every year, this event reminds us that being a WASB transcends graduation, as WASB continues to show support by engaging its members beyond college. As I sat back, it was clear to me that this event was so much more than a social gathering; it was a homecoming in the truest sense.

Recent WASB grads and current members share brunch and great conversation.

As someone who joined WASB in Spring 2025, moments like this cause me to reflect on the memory of my first retreat and how much has changed since I walked into a space filled with 64 people I hardly knew for the first time. Admittedly, I was nervous and did not realize that those faces would soon feel akin to family. Still, I quickly learned that WASB is a group woven together by shared experiences and goals, strong bonds, and a supportive and collaborative environment. Liam Smith (‘25) reflects on his first retreat as a favorite memory as well: “At one point it's so much, but you never get that high again. Everything at once is so special.”

The moment that stands out most vividly to me from my first retreat was listening to the Senior Stories. I was moved, not only by realizing the profound impact WASB experiences had on these students’ lives, but also by learning just how special this organization had become to them. I learned how this community had supported them through good times, struggles, and everything in between. That was the moment it clicked for me. As I navigate my experiences in WASB and take each step forward academically, personally, and professionally, I know I have a strong community standing by my side.

Hearing alumni speak about their post-graduate journeys and how WASB continues to shape them long after college is one of the most inspiring parts of the WASBs Come Home event. Elizabeth Lanning (‘22), who helped create this wonderful event during her time as Professional Connections director, reflects on what it feels like to return: “It's nostalgic and inspiring, it reminds me of where I was and how this org helped me grow.”

More than the skills gained or accomplishments celebrated, what shines through in every conversation is the deep sense of connection WASB members feel. Coming home to WASB means being surrounded by people who truly see you for who you are. As Eric Eilers (‘93) put it, “Lifelong Badger friends. No matter where you are in life, you will get together with your friends. You have a tight-knit group for life.”

Former Professional Connections Team director and organizer of the first WASBs Come Home, Elizabeth Lanning (‘22), with current PC director, Annabel Allen.

WASB is not simply defined by the events we plan or the titles we hold, but by the people who make this organization feel like home. This event teaches the value of community, the importance of reflection, and the beauty of fleeting moments that become lifelong memories. Whether you are a current or past member, the spirit of WASB remains the same: welcoming, genuine, and full of heart. When watching alumni and current WASBs come together, I realized something: home isn't a place. Home is a feeling, and this event allowed WASBs, both past and present, to strengthen that feeling with each other.

For all of us, that home will always be WASB.

Current WASBs enjoy good food and even better company.

By Madison Murray

Bucky's Urban Odyssey Chair, All Campus Party Team

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