It seems as though everyone is trying to be “niche” – a buzzword that is being used in excess on social media to describe something underground or endlessly unique. But striving to be this person isn’t worth it, especially in college.
Category: Opinion
How to become a professional Yik Yaker
The Monday Manure is a satire column created to find the humor in the daily life of Cal Poly students. If you’re looking for news, this is not it. If you’re looking for sports, this is kind of it, because we’re having a ball. Madi Taylor is a sociology freshman and a satire columnist for […]
What studying abroad in Madrid is teaching me about finding my voice
There’s a particular kind of bravery that doesn’t make headlines or win awards. It’s choosing to exist in a constant state of uncertainty, where even the simplest tasks require you to risk looking foolish. But with each small risk, I’m building a confidence I never knew I needed, one that doesn’t depend on getting everything right. It’s the willingness to exist in a constant state of uncertainty, where even the simplest tasks require unbelievable courage.
This is my reality as a student who speaks minimal Spanish studying abroad in Madrid. And I’m beginning to realize that courage isn’t the absence of fear—it’s trying anyway, putting yourself out there even when every interaction feels like jumping off a cliff.
Better safe than sorry: get STI tested
With many students having their first sexual experience on a college campus, knowledge of where to go for help when things go wrong is extremely important. Inexperience can bring a lack of caution and preparation to an intimate situation. Luckily, we have plenty of great (and free) options on campus you can take advantage of.
More than just a joker: a review of Sal Vulcano’s PAC show
Hundreds of students excitedly waited outside of the Performing Arts Center for their face-to-face experience with Sal Vulcano, the stand-up comedian most well-known for his work on Impractical Jokers, podcasts and improv shows. Whether students were bandwagoning off their friends or were actually aware of the comedian’s stardom was unclear.
Too many options: are dating apps really for me?
Dating apps take a lot of courage to fully follow through on. While texting strangers online isn’t a big commitment, meeting up with them isn’t usually the advice your parents give you.
The Housing Hunt: Mustang Village is a solid option for an off-campus apartment
As you complete my five step checklist for the housing search, you will probably stumble upon Mustang Village as one of your housing options after doing some Google searching or asking literally anyone where they live. Indeed, Mustang Village is a popular choice for Cal Poly students’ off-campus housing.
We got an F in free speech, but maybe not for the reason you think
Cal Poly, as an administration, has the policies of a university that values free speech, but the student body has a personality of one that fears it.
Letter from the Editor: Why we tell the stories we do
In the last month, Mustang News covered two stories centered around Cal Poly’s Turning Point USA chapter in the immediate aftermath of Charlie Kirk’s assassination. Rather than ignoring the backlash our organization is receiving about these stories, I want to explain our reporting standards and how we publish stories. What we published On Sept. 30, […]
Mustang News will begin publishing endorsements
This change marks an expansion of Mustang News’ award-winning content to further serve the Cal Poly and San Luis Obispo community through thoughtful, intentional and thoroughly researched recommendations.
The best Halloween costumes are homemade
Madeline Kuhns is a journalism senior and Mustang News opinion columnist. The opinions expressed in this article do not necessarily reflect those of Mustang Media Group. At eight years old, I stood in a doorway with my pillowcase candy bag. I was thrilled to show off my costume: a bat with wings that spread when […]

