While fashion is a form of self-expression and autonomy, the industry itself is more than just a creative outlet. Today, questions of ethics, working conditions, animal rights, and sustainability permeate the field. According to an article by the VOU, “Globally, there’s one garbage truck of textile waste dumped at a landfill or burnt every second.” This enormous amount of waste—brought on primarily by fast-fashion companies—will only increase if we continue to feed into consumerist culture. Such waste is combated by sustainable fashion lines, which work toward a world of greater ecological integrity and social justice. Designers ensure that their clothing is manufactured, distributed, and used in ways that value social welfare, workers’ rights, and the environment.

As winter winds turn into spring’s soft breezes, we’re beginning to leave our dorms and venture into the night. Now, we can finally enjoy our favorite bars and clubs without having to deal with annoying puffer coats. However, despite the changing seasons, we still need to remember to stay safe in the city. While having a good time is at the forefront of your mind, Spectrum has some tips for staying safe on and near the dance floor.

The words “housing registration” elicit a wide range of emotions for all Columbia students, falling somewhere on the spectrum from excitement to agony. In any case, we’re neck-deep in what we believe is the most common response of all: confusion. Together, let’s work to unravel the ins and outs of the housing registration process.

Columbia Dining is truly a world of surprises. Trudging through dense crowds of flashing figures, one can either find a delicious meal or a disappointing buffet of stale meat. Although quality may vary, at least we can always turn to our favorite comfort dining hall foods for a fantastic experience. Columbia’s food is far from the comfort of a home-cooked meal, but we still have the best college food in the nation. From Faculty House salmon to John Jay cookies, here are 10 of the best dining hall foods on our campus.

It’s that time of the year again. The weather outside is frightful, and the fire—or alternatively, your grotty dorm heater—is delightful. Winter at Columbia can be a stressful time, but the giddy holiday feeling makes your chemis-tree all-nighters seem worth it. A great way to get into the holiday spirit is to turn your dorm room into a mini winter wonderland. As it snow happens, Spectrum has some lit ideas to help you stay cozy during this wonderful time of the year. Now, wipe off that resting Grinch face, and ready, set, glow!

It isn’t always easy to cope with the intensity of Columbia and Barnard. On top of the usual rigor, academic pressure can be especially cumbersome during exam seasons. This year is particularly overwhelming—after months of online midterms and finals that were often open-book and relied on applying, rather than retaining, knowledge. There’s still that final midterm stretch before Thanksgiving, so here are a few ways to navigate your stress during these turbulent weeks.

The sun has started setting earlier and earlier, a sure sign that fall is here. For those who live farther from campus, the sunset is often a consideration for when one commutes from campus or plans meetings. It can often mean choosing between getting home early to save money or taking a costly Uber back. Even if you live closer to campus, early nightfall might stir up uneasy feelings if you’re near a park or on a darker street. This fall, Spectrum has some tips for staying safe around campus and in the city.