Skip to Main Content
UNF's #1 Student-Run News Source

UNF Spinnaker

UNF's #1 Student-Run News Source

UNF Spinnaker

UNF's #1 Student-Run News Source

UNF Spinnaker

Hayley Simonson

Hayley Simonson

All content by Hayley Simonson
Photo by freestocks on Unsplash.

Anticipated gifts for the 2021 holiday season

Hayley Simonson, Managing Editor November 29, 2021

The holiday season is a time to give and make those you care for feel appreciated.  Sometimes it’s difficult coming up with the perfect present for your friend, family member, or significant other....

Photo by Greyson Joralemon/Unsplash.

‘Night of Lights’ returns to St. Augustine this year

Hayley Simonson, Managing Editor November 22, 2021

This year, St. Augustine celebrates its 28th year of doing Night of Lights. The event started on Nov. 20 and takes place every evening through Jan. 31, 2022. According to National Geographic, Night...

Photo by Ramiro Martinez via Unsplash

Longest partial lunar eclipse of the century to happen tonight

Hayley Simonson, Managing Editor November 18, 2021

The longest partial lunar eclipse of the century is on track to take place during the late night hours between Nov. 18 and Nov. 19.  A lunar eclipse is when Earth makes its way between the Sun and...

Photo by Niklas Ohlrogge on Unsplash.

Holiday events in Jacksonville

Hayley Simonson, Managing Editor November 17, 2021

If you’re getting excited about all the holiday cheer, or if you could use a little bit of some holiday spirit, consider checking out some of these cool December events happening in Jacksonville.  19th...

Covid-19 (SARS-CoV-2) vaccine booster dose. Photo by Parang Mehta/Unsplash.

COVID-19 booster shots and what to know

Hayley Simonson, Managing Editor November 16, 2021

There is much discussion about COVID-19 booster shots ever since the FDA’s authorization. Boosters come after the initial COVID-19 vaccine roll-outs that happened around the world. Some of this information...

Stay safe. One of the many street signs that have appeared, to warn people, during the current pandemic. This one was in the high street of Shaftesbury, which has now been pedestrianised. Photo by Nick Fewings/Unsplash.

How COVID-19 exposures work at UNF

Hayley Simonson, Managing Editor November 15, 2021

Members of the student body, staff, or faculty at the university may have unfortunately had the experience of receiving an email in their university inbox that alerted them of potential exposure to COVID-19.  Spinnaker...

Photo by Mufid Majnun via Unsplash.

Student Health Services to host another vaccine clinic

Hayley Simonson, Managing Editor November 11, 2021

UNF has partnered with Walgreens to provide COVID-19 Pfizer and Moderna vaccinations and boosters. On Thursday, Nov. 18 from 10 a.m. through 4 p.m. the university will be hosting a vaccine clinic at the...

Photo by Yaroslav Shuraev from Pexels.

Fall party hosted by Osprey Life and Productions

Hayley Simonson, Managing Editor November 10, 2021

Ready to escape the stress of Finals approaching? Osprey Life and Productions has your back. They are celebrating the end of the Fall semester with a huge party on Wednesday, Nov. 17 at 6:00 p.m. You can...

UNF logo

Workshop: ‘Roots of Injustice, Seeds of Change: Toward Right Relationships with Native Peoples’

Hayley Simonson, Managing Editor November 9, 2021

On Tuesday, Nov. 16, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. a workshop will be conducted by the Friend’s Peace Team that welcomes guests who would like to reconsider U.S. History. Through an exercise that is to...

Photo by Element5 Digital on Unsplash.

Four easy Thanksgiving desserts

Hayley Simonson, Managing Editor November 8, 2021

Believe it or not, Thanksgiving is right around the corner. Here are some fun recipes you can make with your friends, family, or just yourself this season. These desserts are sure to cure your sweet tooth. Pumpkin...

Photo by Caleb Fisher via Unsplash.

Veterans Day: background and UNF celebrations

Hayley Simonson and Michael Tracey November 8, 2021

Veterans Day is right around the corner, and the UNF Military and Veterans Resource Center (MRVC) will be commemorating those who fight for our freedom.  What is Veterans Day? On Nov. 11 of each year,...

Photo courtesy of UNF Fraternity and Sorority Life

What ever happened with Greek housing on campus?

Hayley Simonson, Managing Editor November 5, 2021

It’s no secret that UNF is home to many Greek organizations on campus, functioning like many other sororities and fraternities around the country. However, one thing that appears to be missing is the...

Photo by Lance Asper on Unsplash.

Jacksonville’s three beaches

Hayley Simonson, Managing Editor November 3, 2021

Jacksonville is home to many unique, beautiful beaches that are special to the East Coast. There is a selection of spots to choose from when planning out your next beach day. If you’re unfamiliar with...

Photo by Aiden Craver on Unsplash.

Why you may want to take a trip to Orlando this holiday season 

Hayley Simonson, Managing Editor October 27, 2021

Orlando is not a far drive from Jacksonville, which is great, because this year Walt Disney World is bringing all the holiday festivities imaginable for its 50th anniversary.  Each park will be cheerfully...

Photo by Andyone/Unsplash.

Most anticipated Halloween costumes of 2021

Hayley Simonson, Managing Editor October 23, 2021

Halloween is right around the corner. Each year certain costume concepts take the stage whether it be in regard to trendy pop culture or new media trends.  It’s always interesting to see what is...

UNF Student Union

Food Truck Frenzy at the Osprey Plaza

Hayley Simonson, Managing Editor October 20, 2021

Osprey Plaza is located in the middle of the student union and, this Friday, Oct. 22, there will be free food there. That’s right, free food. Who doesn’t love it?  Any UNF student who shows up...

Photo by Kyle Glenn via Unsplash

Interested in studying abroad? Attend an afternoon meeting Thursday

Hayley Simonson, Managing Editor October 13, 2021

If you’re interested in studying abroad while taking classes that will move you towards graduation, attend a meeting Oct. 14 at 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m in Building 42, Coggin College of Business, room...

Classes are cancelled until Wed. due to Hurricane Irma

UNF graduate program happening Tuesday night

Hayley Simonson, Managing Editor October 12, 2021

A UNF Coggin Graduate Business information session will take place on Oct. 12 for students to learn more about the six master degrees and two graduate certificates offered at UNF.  The UNF Coggin Graduate...

Photo by kike vega on Unsplash.

The Benefits of Yoga

Hayley Simonson, Managing Editor October 7, 2021

Take advantage of the group fitness yoga classes at the UNF wellness center, and embrace all the benefits that come along with attending yoga classes. According to Hopkins Medicine, yoga has many benefits...

Photo by Aaron Burden on Unsplash.

Jacksonville pumpkin patches to visit this fall

Hayley Simonson, Managing Editor October 6, 2021

Pumpkin season is here, and with that anomaly comes the event of the year -- pumpkin patch scouting.  Some people take pride in their traditional pumpkin patches that they’ve visited for years, while...

Photo courtesy of the UNF Eta Sigma Gamma Chapter.

Student opportunity to receive a $75 stipend or giftcard

Hayley Simonson, Managing Editor September 28, 2021

The UNF Eta Sigma Gamma Chapter is offering incentives at their organized Ospreys Against COVID (OAC) Student Ambassador training this Wed., Sept. 29 from 4:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on campus.  Ambassadors...

Osprey Cove. Photo by Robert Curtis.

Student living that UNF offers: what’s the best and what’s the worst?

Hayley Simonson, Managing Editor September 24, 2021

The Department of Housing and Residence Life at UNF offers students many options if they’re choosing to live on campus. With all these options come differing opinions about the places that are the best...

Photo by Hayley Simonson, Managing Editor.

The new Lufrano Gallery exhibition on campus UNF students can experience

Hayley Simonson, Managing Editor September 16, 2021

Located in the John A. Delaney Student Union, The Lufrano Intercultural Gallery is presenting a new, unique art experience for students at no cost. The exhibit,‘YET WE ARE: Personal Narrative and Shared...

Photo by Amit Lahav on Unsplash

The Significance of Yom Kippur

Hayley Simonson, Managing Editor September 15, 2021

Yom Kippur follows Rosh Hashanah and is considered the most important holiday in the Jewish Faith. According to tradition, Jews are encouraged to make amends and ask forgiveness for sins committed during...

UNF Student Union

UNF ranks ‘Best National University’ for the third year in a row

Hayley Simonson, Managing Editor September 14, 2021

The U.S. News & World Report’s 2022 edition of Best Colleges list ranks more than 1,400 colleges and universities across the country. Once again, UNF made the list.  Along with this ranking,...

UNF advising shares common mistakes college students make

UNF advising shares common mistakes college students make

Hayley Simonson, Managing Editor September 10, 2021

The idea of going to college is to come out on the other side of it somewhat successful, so how can students make sure they’re doing that, and what are some of the common mistakes students make that...

Virtual biomedical research seminars begin today through UNF

Virtual biomedical research seminars begin today through UNF

Hayley Simonson, Managing Editor September 9, 2021

UNF’S Biomedical Sciences program is hosting monthly “Research in Progress” virtual seminars. For those who don’t know, the formal definition of Biomedical Science is a set of sciences applying...

Photo by Green Chameleon on Unsplash

Study tips for incoming students

Hayley Simonson, Managing Editor September 7, 2021

Starting college can be intimidating for incoming students, due to the academic load that often requires a different approach than the one once used in high school. Here are some tips to get on the right...

Photo credits to Newsweek.

The significance of Rosh Hashanah

Hayley Simonson, Managing Editor September 7, 2021

Today marks the Jewish New Year, Rosh Hashanah, which is the first day of Tishrei, the seventh month of the Hebrew calendar. Rosh Hashanah is one of the holiest days in Judaism and signifies the creation...

Photo by Brooke Cagle on Unsplash

Activities on campus you may not know about

Hayley Simonson, Managing Editor September 7, 2021

College loans and expenses can go toward more than your academic experience at UNF. They also could go towards student life.   There are over 200 clubs and organizations to choose from on-campus,...

What are UNF’S enrollment numbers like post-COVID?

What are UNF’S enrollment numbers like post-COVID?

Hayley Simonson, Managing Editor September 3, 2021

Some students have thrived off of the remote learning environment, while others simply can’t stand it. When the pandemic hit, courses continued, but at a new demanding and challenging level that often...

How the pandemic socially changed everything

How the pandemic socially changed everything

Hayley Simonson, Managing Editor September 3, 2021

If one takes a walk through campus, they’ll see people of all different backgrounds and walks of life. Perhaps you’d be friends with some of the people you pass, others, you probably would never be...

Photo by Ijaz Rafi on Unsplash

Ways to show your mom you care on Mother’s Day

Hayley Simonson, Managing Editor May 7, 2021

With Mothers Day right around the corner, you may be wondering what you can do for your own mother to show your appreciation for all she’s done for you. At the end of the day, you know your mom the best...

Photo by Heather Ford on Unsplash.

The history of Cinco de Mayo

Hayley Simonson, Managing Editor May 5, 2021

The Mexican holiday “Cinco de Mayo” that takes place every year on the fifth of May is much more than a day to just appreciate delicious Mexican cuisine. It is a day that celebrates the Mexican army’s...

Photo by Michael Browning on Unsplash.

Five new restaurants to try out in Jacksonville

Hayley Simonson, Managing Editor May 3, 2021

As normalcy gradually starts to return, more people are interested in going out to local restaurants again. Jacksonville is already home to many culinary gems as the city continues to welcome even more...

UNF students install new sculptures at local parks

UNF students install new sculptures at local parks

Hayley Simonson April 21, 2021

Check out some art by University of North Florida students that has been and will be installed around Jacksonville. The students' sculptures were installed at James Weldon Johnson Park on April 16, 2021....

Student responsible for on-campus anti-Semitic QR codes speaks out at UNF DDI event

Student responsible for on-campus anti-Semitic QR codes speaks out at UNF DDI event

Hayley Simonson and Darvin Nelson April 15, 2021

This past Wednesday, UNF’S Interfaith Center hosted a “Coffee and Conversation” following the anti-Semitic incident that occurred on Passover weekend. The event was a zoom discussion that welcomed...

Photo by Daniel Schludi on Unsplash.

U.S. states that are supporting COVID-19 vaccine passports and those that are not.

Hayley Simonson, Managing Editor April 14, 2021

COVID-19 vaccine passports are igniting much controversy. Many people are using the term “COVID-19 vaccine passports” to describe digital certificates that would prove vaccination status to get into...

Photo by Imelda on Unsplash.

What causes hyperinflation?

Hayley Simonson, Managing Editor April 14, 2021

Inflation is an important concept for people to understand because it can affect a plethora of important areas that have to do with your finances. Simply put , inflation is defined as the upward movement...

Photo by Dom Fou on Unsplash.

Florida Legislature passes bill allowing students to record professors without permission

Hayley Simonson, Managing Editor April 13, 2021

On Wednesday, April 7, 2021 lawmakers in Florida passed a bill requiring Florida’s public universities to have their students and faculty complete yearly surveys to identify political bias in college...

Photo by Scott Graham on Unsplash.

What training courses are UNF staff and faculty taking?

Hayley Simonson, Managing Editor April 13, 2021

The University of North Florida encourages its faculty and staff to become lifelong learners by participating in the university’s Center for Professional Development and Training (CPDT). However, participation...

Photo by Markus Spiske on Unsplash.

Will UNF require COVID-19 vaccine proof for Fall semester?

Hayley Simonson, Managing Editor April 10, 2021

The debate on whether the COVID-19 vaccine should be a requirement for enrollment in educational institutions is an ongoing and hotly discussed topic. However, the decision on whether to require students...

Credit to Georgia Vagim via Unsplash.

Most anticipated movies coming Summer 2021

Hayley Simonson, Managing Editor April 8, 2021

You might be sick of the pandemic, but hopefully you’re not sick of watching movies. If not, buckle up, and get prepared because this year has some exciting releases to look forward to.  Mortal Kombat...

Photo by Ethan Robertson on Unsplash.

A guide to your Summer 2021 essentials

Hayley Simonson, Managing Editor April 8, 2021

In just a few weeks, students will be able to take a sigh of relief because Summer break is quickly approaching.  Start preparing now to maximize the quality of your Summer 2021 by making sure you...

Photo by Jens Thekkeveettil on Unsplash.

Two popular Jackonville festivals canceled due to COVID-19

Hayley Simonson, Managing Editor April 7, 2021

A year has passed since the pandemic first began, but the United States is still dealing with COVID-19 as it continues to postpone and cancel popular events.  Singing the Blues is the largest oceanfront...

Photo by Melissa Walker Horn on Unsplash.

The history of Easter candy

Hayley Simonson, Managing Editor April 2, 2021

Once a year, as shoppers stroll the aisles of the supermarket, they’ll find Easter’s most renowned candies. These sweets never fail to serve their iconic purposes and traditions, but where did they...

Photo by Joshua Hoehne on Unsplash.

How to make a COVID-19 vaccine appointment in Jacksonville

Hayley Simonson, Managing Editor March 29, 2021

After Florida’s Governor Ron DeSantis recently announced the expansion in eligibility for the COVID-19 vaccine, more and more people are beginning to flock to vaccine appointments. Figuring out how...

Photo by Laura College on Unsplash.

Deadliest animals in Florida

Hayley Simonson, Managing Editor March 23, 2021

Florida is home to a variety of interesting animal species. While some of these animals are completely harmless, others are potentially dangerous. Although some are deemed deadly, these animals have no...

Photo by Justin Nedrow.

UNF to host COVID-19 vaccine clinic

Hayley Simonson, Managing Editor March 23, 2021

UNF announced that Student Health Services (SHS)  will host a COVID-19 Vaccine Clinic for eligible employees and students on Tuesday, March 30, and Wednesday, March 31.  Appointment times on Day One,...

Photo by Nicola Styles on Unsplash.

WHM: Highlighting five women-owned beauty businesses

Hayley Simonson, Managing Editor March 18, 2021

Many women have built up exceptional brands over the years that produce products known and loved by many. In honor of Women'sHistory Month, here are five women-owned businesses that are producing worth-your-while...

Photo courtesy womenshistory.org.

WHM Spotlight: Susan B. Anthony

Hayley Simonson, Managing Editor March 18, 2021

Susan B. Anthony is one of the most well-known pioneers of the women’s suffrage movement, a decade-long fight for women to receive the right to vote. Anthony was born in 1820 in Adams, Massachusetts...

Photo by NeONBRAND on Unsplash.

How social media is influencing Gen Z’s political views

Hayley Simonson, Managing Editor March 9, 2021

The recent 2020 election brought Generation Z into the spotlight like never before, and University of North Florida professors in the School of Communication are using research to see  exactly how social...

Photo by Isabella and Louisa Fischer on Unsplash.

What’s new with fast-food coffee?

Hayley Simonson, Managing Editor March 9, 2021

The well-known slogan “America runs on Dunkin” could not ring more true for college students who are tired and on the go constantly. Fast food joints serving up coffee are necessary and essential pit...

SG - Student Government

Boyer raises his concerns on bullying within SG

Darvin Nelson, Hayley Simonson, and Carter Mudgett March 8, 2021

Spinnaker met with Darryl Boyer and asked him to tell his story, elaborate on the Snapchat messages we received, and address the topic as a whole. He also addressed an email that he sent out to multiple...

SG - Student Government

Concerning Snapchat messages and Judicial complaints surface involving Vice-President candidate

Hayley Simonson and Carter Mudgett March 8, 2021

In a previous version of this article, Spinnaker displayed a complaint from Joy Bowerman under a quote stating that the complaint was filed from the Ignite Party against Boyer. Bowerman says they are apart...

Photo by Edwin Hooper on Unsplash.

A timeline of the COVID-19 pandemic in the United States

Hayley Simonson, Managing Editor March 8, 2021

It has now been a year since the coronavirus pandemic took off in the United States. While the road has been long and bumpy, there is seemingly a new hope on the horizon after President Joe Biden told...

Photo by sydney Rae on Unsplash.

UNF named ‘Most military friendly school’ for 12th consecutive year

Hayley Simonson, Managing Editor March 3, 2021

The University of North Florida has once again been named one of the most military friendly schools in the nation for the 12th consecutive year in a row. The honor is awarded by Military Friendly, who...

Photo by ?? Janko Ferlič on Unsplash.

How to find sources for your papers at the UNF library

Hayley Simonson, Managing Editor March 3, 2021

There is no need to worry about scrambling for sources to use in your research paper because the UNF library has you covered. Knowing exactly where to go, and what to search for, can help save a lot of...

Photo by Lance Asper on Unsplash.

A guide to neighborhoods in Jacksonville and what to expect from them

Hayley Simonson, Managing Editor February 27, 2021

Jacksonville is a huge city that has many unique areas to live. These individual hubs have something special to offer and cater distinctively to the people they host.  There are many different options...

Photo by Toa Heftiba on Unsplash.

Seven haunted places in Jacksonville

Hayley Simonson, Managing Editor February 25, 2021

Sometimes, buildings carry superstition with them as much as they carry history. If you’re someone who is interested in mysterious tales surrounding areas rumored to be haunted, this list is for you.  Many...

Photo by Tabea Damm on Unsplash.

How to save money on travel

Hayley Simonson, Managing Editor February 24, 2021

For a while now, COVID-19 has halted travel plans, closed borders, and left people fantasizing about the days when they can officially travel again. While the pandemic is not over yet, brighter horizons...

Photo by Richard Gatley on Unsplash.

Asteroid scheduled to pass Earth

Hayley Simonson, Managing Editor February 22, 2021

Get your telescopes ready, because on March 21, 2021 an asteroid under the name 2001 FO32 is scheduled to swoop past Earth. This is the biggest and fastest asteroid to pass Earth this year. The asteroid...

The history of Girl Scout Cookies

The history of Girl Scout Cookies

Hayley Simonson, Managing Editor February 17, 2021

For over 100 years, Girl Scout Cookies have remained a staple, integral, and iconic part of American culture. Catching sight of these colorful cookie boxes outside of the local grocery store, which are...

Photo courtesy of Unsplash.com

First case of UK COVID-19 variant in Jacksonville

Hayley Simonson, Managing Editor February 15, 2021

On Friday, Feb. 12, The Duval County Health Department confirmed that one case of the United Kingdom COVID variant had been found in Jacksonville.   Health experts have warned that the number could...

Movies to watch during Black History Month

Movies to watch during Black History Month

Hayley Simonson, Managing Editor February 11, 2021

Movies are a way to bring people together to create mutual feelings and emotions that connect larger audiences. Since it's early beginnings, Hollywood has progressed in a positive direction by bringing...

Ida. B. Wells-Barnett, photo courtesy National Park Service.

Black History Month spotlight: Ida. B. Wells-Barnett

Hayley Simonson, Managing Editor February 11, 2021

Ida. B. Wells-Barnett is known as one of the most influential journalists of her time and beyond. She was a talented writer, activist, and researcher in the 19th and 20th centuries. She used her skills...

Courtesy of National Portrait Gallery, Smithsonian Institution.

Black History Month spotlight: Frederick Douglass

Hayley Simonson, Managing Editor February 10, 2021

Frederick Douglass famously said, “If there is no struggle, there is no progress.” Frederick Douglass is one of the most highly regarded and respected African-American historical figures of the 19th...

Photo credit Kori Odum, courtesy of Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens.

Two critically endangered bongo calves born at the Jacksonville Zoo

Hayley Simonson, Managing Editor February 10, 2021

The Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens is now home to two more critically endangered Eastern Bongo calves. One calf was born on Dec. 17, 2020, while the other was born later on Jan. 8, 2021.  Both calves...

Photo by Markus Spiske on Unsplash.

UNF biology professor discusses climate change

Hayley Simonson, Managing Editor February 9, 2021

Our planet is estimated to be home to 15 million different species, yet Earth continues to be misunderstood and put on the backburner by the very people it sustains. Myths about pressing issues such as...

Photo by Ella Olsson on Unsplash.

A guide to meal prepping

Hayley Simonson, Managing Editor February 3, 2021

College students are stressed and busy -- mix that with being hangry and broke, and you have yourself a recipe for disaster. There’s a solution to staying healthy and in control of your finances when...

Photo by Pratik Gupta on Unsplash.

Is there a correlation between social media usage and depression?

Hayley Simonson, Managing Editor February 2, 2021

Social media has taken over the world with its instant, formidable power to connect the human population. Has it potentially consumed our minds as well?  Academic research might give us a new perspective...

Photo by Imansyah Muhamad Putera on Unsplash.

Best spots to take photos in Jacksonville

Hayley Simonson, Managing Editor January 26, 2021

Marc Riboud, a French photographer, once said, “Taking pictures is savoring life intensely every hundredth of a second.” Whether you’re into photography, or taking images is just something you enjoy...

Photo by Rachel Park on Unsplash

Weekly food bargains in Jacksonville

Hayley Simonson, Managing Editor January 21, 2021

There’s nothing better than saving money on food as a college student, especially when the bargain is too good to pass up. Here are seven local food spots in the Jacksonville area if you’re wanting...

Photo by Thom on Unsplash.

Canvas courses unavailable due to IT error

Hayley Simonson, Managing Editor January 21, 2021

An unknown error has removed some Spring 2021 courses from students’ view in Canvas. An update from the IT Help Desk regarding Canvas issues read, "Unfortunately, a currently unknown error has removed...

Courtesy UNF

Free facilitated growth program for veteran business owners

Hayley Simonson, Managing Editor January 21, 2021

This spring, military veteran business owners are being offered a free facilitated growth  program by The Military and Veterans Resource Center at the University of North Florida and Veterans Florida....

The entrance to the Cummer Museum.

UNF sculpture professor exhibiting work at Cummer Museum

Hayley Simonson, Managing Editor January 20, 2021

Jenny Hager, a University of North Florida sculpture professor, is currently exhibiting her work at the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens from Wednesday, Jan. 13, through Sunday, Feb. 21. Hager’s...

Image by Tamanna Rumee via Unsplash.

The JCPenney Suit Up event is back this semester

Hayley Simonson, Managing Editor January 15, 2021

The JCPenney event that provides UNF students and alumni with discounts on career dress apparel is back. The sale is being held on Friday, Jan. 15 through Sunday, Jan. 17.   JCPenney, located...

Photo courtesy of Unsplash

The impact of big tech on free speech

Hayley Simonson, Managing Editor January 14, 2021

After President Donald J. Trump was banned from his Twitter platform, the debate between whether this was a constitutional violation of freedom of speech caught fire. What do private third party media...

An artist’s illustration of antibodies (blue-green structures) attempting to latch onto the antigens on the outer surface of a coronavirus (red). Antibodies are one of the major players in the immune system’s attack against viruses. (Image courtesy of DARIAREN/ISTOCK/GETTY IMAGES PLUS)

Student Health Services processed as a COVID-19 vaccine provider

Hayley Simonson, Managing Editor January 14, 2021

Last semester, students of UNF witnessed their traditional college experience change before their eyes as COVID-19 health and safety measures were enforced. It is now a new year, and a new season, yet...

Study tips to help with online learning

Study tips to help with online learning

Hayley Simonson, Managing Editor January 11, 2021

The transition to remote learning has been difficult for some students, leaving them unmotivated, fatigued, and struggling. What are some solutions for those who may be feeling overwhelmed?  Matthew...

The UNF Bookstore. Photo credit Emily Echevarria.

The UNF bookstore is having a sale this week

Hayley Simonson, Managing Editor January 11, 2021

The UNF Bookstore is hosting a sale for Jansport backpacks starting today, Jan. 11, through Friday, Jan. 29. All eligible items will be 25% off both in-store and online.  The bookstore will also...

President Thomas Carpenter at his desk.

Founding University president, Thomas G. Carpenter, passes away

Hayley Simonson, Managing Editor January 11, 2021

The founding president of UNF, and the man behind the name for the beloved Thomas G. Carpenter Library, has passed away at age 94. Dr. Carpenter served as president at UNF for 11 years, from 1969-1980. Dr....

TikTok's trend of DIY dentistry involves shaving teeth with a nail file

TikTok’s trend of DIY dentistry involves shaving teeth with a nail file

Hayley Simonson, Police Reporter December 18, 2020

TikTok is known as a platform where people can share their DIY trends and hacks, and recently a controversial one resurfaced. Users have demonstrated achieving a “DIY smile” by shaving their uneven...

When will we see the return of in-person concerts?

When will we see the return of in-person concerts?

Hayley Simonson, Police Reporter December 18, 2020

Lets face it - virtual concerts just aren’t the same as experiencing your favorite artists in person, but with the nature of coronavirus, in-person concerts continue to pose a threat for high transmission...

Is there a drop in enrollment due to the pandemic?

Is there a drop in enrollment due to the pandemic?

Hayley Simonson, Police Reporter December 18, 2020

Has the pandemic had an impact on the University of North Florida’s enrollment numbers for Spring 2021?  When compared to past years, overall UNF enrollment in fall of 2020 remained steady. The university...

The history behind the Anti-Vax Movement

The history behind the Anti-Vax Movement

Hayley Simonson, Police Reporter December 18, 2020

Health and medical experts have long described vaccinations as one of the greatest achievements in public health, but opposition to vaccines have existed as long as the first vaccines were created.  Those...

UNF psychologist explains test anxiety

UNF psychologist explains test anxiety

Hayley Simonson, Police Reporter December 17, 2020

With finals week having come to a close, students can finally take a sigh of relief and relax from the pressure of exams and tests. Finals week can be potentially anxiety inducing and stressful for a lot...

UNF receives top rating for learning environment and policies related to free expression

UNF receives top rating for learning environment and policies related to free expression

Hayley Simonson, Police Reporter December 15, 2020

The University of North Florida proved their commitment to upholding the Florida Statement on Free Expression in their learning environments after they received a “green light” rating from the Foundation...

Local farm offers introduction to outdoor gardening class

Local farm offers introduction to outdoor gardening class

Hayley Simonson, Police Reporter December 3, 2020

White Harvest Farms in Jacksonville is inviting the public to attend a class on outdoor gardening next Friday, Dec. 11, 2020 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. The staff will go over ways to create and maintain your...

The words "Police Beat" are written in red and white, surrounded by a white square outline. In the background, a University of North Florida Police Department cruiser is tinted blue.

Armed robbery home invasion at The Flats

Hayley Simonson, Police Reporter December 3, 2020

UPD Officers were dispatched to The Flats on Nov. 23, 2020 where a suspect was detained after a reported armed robbery home invasion.  Upon UPD’s arrival, the suspect, Tiaurie D. Freeman,  was seen...

Photo by Charles DeLoye via Unsplash.

What are President-elect Biden’s policy proposals on higher education?

Hayley Simonson, Police Reporter December 2, 2020

The weight of student loan debt continues to grow heavier as it hits $1.5 trillion, which is now more than Americans owe to credit card companies. President-elect Joe Biden has spoken about his higher...

The Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership is expected to connect trade routes for about 30% of the world's population (Image from Wikipedia).

A look into the RCEP trade deal and why it matters

Hayley Simonson, Police Reporter November 30, 2020

Potentially the largest free trade agreement in history, the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) was signed earlier this month by 15 countries, and the United States was not one of them....

FILE - This May 4, 2020, file photo provided by the University of Maryland School of Medicine, shows the first patient enrolled in Pfizer's COVID-19 coronavirus vaccine clinical trial at the University of Maryland School of Medicine in Baltimore. On Monday, Nov. 9, 2020, Pfizer said an early peek at its vaccine data suggests the shots may be 90% effective at preventing COVID-19. (Courtesy of University of Maryland School of Medicine via AP, File)

What to expect with the rollout of the COVID-19 vaccine

Hayley Simonson, Police Reporter November 30, 2020

The continuous race to finalize and distribute the COVID-19 vaccine may be nearing its end, but at the finish line, there are those that are quickly lining up to receive it, while others are shaken...

Your holiday guide to 25 days of Christmas movies

Your holiday guide to 25 days of Christmas movies

Hayley Simonson, Police Reporter November 28, 2020

If there’s one thing the year 2020 has taught us, it’s how to stay inside, sit on the couch, and watch movies for hours. If you’re feeling the blues from the chaos of this year, here are some cheerful...

Most anticipated Christmas gifts of 2020

Most anticipated Christmas gifts of 2020

Hayley Simonson, Police Reporter November 28, 2020

With the holiday season just around the corner, people are already debating on gift options for their family and friends.  Here are some popular gift ideas that have a good chance of being seen under...

The Barnett Building will host UNF MBA and MSM classes in Spring 2021 (Photo taken from Google Images//Courtesy of Ebyabe)

UNF to offer graduate business courses in downtown Jacksonville

Hayley Simonson, Police Reporter November 19, 2020

In the spring of 2021, the university’s Coggin College of Business will offer Master of Business Administration (MBA) classes and Master of Science in Management (MSM) courses at the UNF downtown location....

Featured Image by Patrick Tomasso via Unsplash.

The dos and dont’s of traveling during the holiday season

Hayley Simonson, Police Reporter November 18, 2020

Thanksgiving and the whole holiday season is known as a time for friends and family to gather together in celebration, but with COVID-19 numbers now resurging, a conflict arises.  The U.S is currently...

Professional chef to teach Ospreys how to up their noodle game

Professional chef to teach Ospreys how to up their noodle game

Hayley Simonson, Police Reporter November 18, 2020

If you’re tired of the same boring, repetitive recipes, look no further. On Thursday Nov. 19, from 3p.m. to 4p.m., a special virtual cooking tutorial will be hosted by Chef Dennis Chan, the owner of...

What the 1918 pandemic tells us about the COVID-19 pandemic

What the 1918 pandemic tells us about the COVID-19 pandemic

Hayley Simonson, Police Reporter November 11, 2020

The coronavirus pandemic shocked Americans with its quick and unexpected arrival, but by looking at the past, we can see that this isn’t the first time the U.S. has experienced a nasty pandemic. As Spanish-American...

How the United States rose to power and how long it will last

How the United States rose to power and how long it will last

Hayley Simonson, Police Reporter November 10, 2020

As history witnesses the rise and fall of many empires, the United States of America continues to hold its position as a prominent global superpower, but how did it get there and how long will it last?  Dr....

Load More Stories