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ChatGPT is not your therapist

Ariana Glaser
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ChatGPT is not your therapist

Undoubtedly, ChatGPT has become an increasingly popular tool for college students over the last couple of years. But as the AI generative platform becomes more mainstream, people have found a new, far more lethal role for it to undertake: the role of a therapist. The fact remains that AI is no replacement for human connection, and using it as such can lead to detrimental impacts on mental health. 

If you’ve spent any time doomscrolling through TikTok these past few weeks, you’ve likely encountered the ill-fated “romance” between Kendra Hilty and her psychiatrist. But in case you missed it, an ADHD patient fell in love with her psychiatrist of three years. She then accused the psychiatrist of manipulative and predatory practices because he allowed her emotional attachment to progress. 

While it’s difficult to know which of these two parties was truly in the wrong, there was a clear enemy in the story: the AI chatbot that she nicknamed Henry and went to for advice. 

Kendra described several instances where she asked her AI companion for psychological support. As she scrambled through her thoughts surrounding her complicated relationship with her unnamed psychiatrist, Henry provided in-depth, psychoanalytical perspectives that only served to reinforce the portrait she’d crafted in her head.

Media reports argue that chatbots are built to mimic your tone and remember your mentalities. They’re built to be your friends — not your therapists. 

For example, if you feed ChatGPT a novel you wrote, it’s going to tell you that it belongs with literature’s greatest classics — even if it really, really doesn’t. In the same vein, if you tell a chatbot about a difficult situation, it will find a way to paint you as the victim.

There’s been the recent phenomenon of “AI psychosis” – an ideology enunciating the idea that AI chatbots may exacerbate schizophrenic-like symptoms. Just last fall, a fourteen-year old committed suicide after developing a “relationship” with an AI-replica of a “Game of Thrones” character. A licensed therapist would have seen the warning signs, because a human being is capable of interpersonal connection in a way artificial intelligence will never be.

Leaders of UM’s Counseling Outreach Peer Organization, or COPE, stand at a table in the middle of UM’s Coral Gables campus during an event Wednesday, Oct. 6. Photo credit: Parker Gimbel

Trained mental health professionals serve to problem-solve while chatbots serve to fan egos. While we can all use positive reinforcement every now and again, being consistently placed on a pedestal cannot possibly be sustainable. If anything, ChatGPT’s dedication to centering its respective human being as the hero in every situation only serves to strengthen narcissistic tendencies and superiority complexes. 

ChatGPT is far too new for us to know all of its long-term effects. But even in the short-term, we’ve seen the catastrophic consequences of replacing human connection with artificial intelligence. If we’re seeing AI as a friend — when it’s actually a subservient robot voicing what it knows we want to hear — we’re dooming our social skills.

Therapy is expensive, and we all need someone to talk to when it comes to stressful academics and extracurriculars. But utilize your other resources like UM’s counseling center, advisors and professors, or your friends. Let Kendra’s story be a lesson to us all that there are some roles artificial intelligence should never replace — and the role of a therapist might be at the top of the list. 

You don’t have to be a “UMiami girl” to fit in

Keira Faddis
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You don’t have to be a “UMiami girl” to fit in

When most people think of UM, their minds immediately go to designer bags, expensive brands, parties and bikinis. If you scroll through the #UMiami on TikTok, you’ll find countless videos of this staple stereotype. 

While it is true that many students may find themselves fitting in with the Miami girl cliché, it is completely okay if you don’t. 

The term “UMiami girl” is used by mainly non-UM students to describe the stereotypical, trendy girls you see on campus. She could be filming a “day in my life” video on TikTok while sipping a matcha latte from the Honey Veil stand by the Cox Science building, holding her green Goyard bag. Or, she could be tanning on the volleyball courts before grabbing an acai bowl from Pura Vida.

Remember how our parents told us a thousand times that not everything you see on social media is real? They were right. What social media won’t tell you is that the same “UMiami girl” is a member of student government and is on the Dean’s list. These are major accomplishments that are reduced to fit their narrow view. 

Fitting in at UM isn’t about conforming to a stereotype. It’s about staying true to yourself and finding the people who embrace you for what makes you unique. 

More than 19,000 students get to call UM home, and with alumni living in all 50 U.S. states and 174 countries, our campus is a melting pot of  different cultures and personalities. With so many kinds of personalities, cultures, student organizations and on-campus events, you’ll quickly see that unlike popular belief, there’s not one type of student here.

Students walk through rows of booths showcasing a portion of the 300+ student organizations and departments at Canefest 2021 in the Watsco Center, on Aug. 22, 2021. Photo credit: Jared Lennon

It is often said that comparison is the thief of joy. It’s easy to look at someone’s Instagram page full of yacht parties and big friend groups and feel like you’re falling behind. What you likely won’t see on their page is the late nights spent cramming for a calculus exam, or the time they spend practicing their speech in the mirror for their public speaking class. 

Social media is a highlight reel. Don’t spend your time comparing your worst moments to the best moments in someone else’s life. 

The most genuine connections you make at UM (probably) won’t come from having the same designer sunglasses as the person sitting next to you. They will come from meeting people who share the same interests and hold the same values as you. 

So, instead of trying to fit into a watered down stereotype, try making genuine connections with the people around you. 

Join one of the hundreds of clubs and organizations on campus. From SCUBA diving to salsa dancing to gardening, you’re bound to find somewhere where you feel like you belong. If Greek life is more your thing, there are 33 sororities and fraternities currently recognized on campus.

College is one of the few times in your life where you get to show up and start completely fresh, and completely as your true self. You might find your group of friends in the sorority you never expected to join but were always interested in, or even just from walking to the dining hall. 

One of the best things I have found from coming to college is being able to say “yes” to things I normally wouldn’t have and finding out that pretty much everyone else was also scared in the beginning. 

The “UMiami girl” talk is just one small part of a bigger picture. 

For every student scrolling through TikTok and Instagram wondering if you’ll ever truly fit in: you don’t have to change a single thing about yourself to belong here. 

So, in case you were wondering — yes, you are a UMiami girl. Yes, you fit in as simply yourself.

Position Group Puzzle: Who can lead each position group for Miami in 2025?

Sebastian Font and Zach Cohen
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Position Group Puzzle: Who can lead each position group for Miami in 2025?

The Hurricanes will be a new-look side heading into their opening game against rivals Notre Dame.

With a roster heavily influenced by the transfer portal and freshman recruiting class, here’s how the ’Canes could line up heading into head coach Mario Cristobal’s fourth season at the helm:

Quarterback

Carson Beck #11

All eyes are on Miami’s new quarterback heading into the 2025-2026 season. Carson Beck, a top transfer from the University of Georgia, has some big shoes to fill after Cam Ward’s Heisman finalist campaign last season. The Jacksonville, Fla. native threw for 3,485 yards and 28 touchdowns, alongside an 11-2 record last season. He helped lead the team to an SEC Championship win and a college football playoff berth in his final season as a Bulldog. 

As a part of two national championship-winning teams and finding success as a starter the past two years for Georgia, Beck looks to bring his winning mentality to Coral Gables and win Miami their first ACC championship ever. 

Quarterback Carson Beck overlooks the field during Miami’s 2025 Spring Game. Photo by Lara Silva, University of Miami Athletics

Wide Receivers

CJ Daniels #7

The most experienced wide receiver on the team, CJ Daniels, enters his sixth year of college football. He brings much-needed experience to a young wide receiver room. 

Daniels played his first four seasons of college football at Liberty University, where he put up great numbers. In his final season with Liberty in 2023 , Daniels caught ​​55 passes totaling 1,067 yards with 10 touchdowns and was named to the 2023 All-Conference USA Second Team. While his stats were down last year at LSU due to a foot injury, Daniels has fully healed and aims to return to his 2023 form in Coral Gables.

Running Back 

Mark Fletcher Jr. #4

The South Florida native Mark Fletcher Jr. enters his junior campaign with the Hurricanes. As a Sophomore (2024), Fletcher Jr. ranked second on the team with 607 rushing yards on 112 carries and averaged 5.4 yards a carry. 

More importantly, he reached the endzone nine times on the ground, a true red-zone threat.

Fletcher Jr. hopes  to do big things as the No.1 back for Miami this season. 

Tight End

Elija Lofton #9

A native of Las Vegas, Nevada, Elija Lofton looks to step up into a bigger role this season after improvements throughout the offseason. 

In his freshman year (2024), Lofton showed promise with his versatility in all 13 games. He caught nine passes for 150 yards, including a touchdown. He also took snaps from the backfield, having two rushes for 30 yards and a touchdown. Lofton’s size and strength will be a nightmare for opposing teams’ defenses in 2025.

Offensive Lineman 

Francis Mauigoa #61

Francis Mauigoa looks to continue a dominant career at the U.

As a sophomore (2024), Mauigoa and his other offensive lineman led Miami to the No.1 offense in the country, blocking for Ward. He started in all 13 games at right tackle and earned All-ACC second-team recognition as one of the conference’s top linemen. Over the course of the season, Mauigoa led Miami to several 500+ yard performances, including a big opening weekend defeat versus Florida, where the offense amassed 529 yards. 

Defensive Lineman

Rueben Bain Jr. #4

After an impressive freshman campaign where Bain received Freshman All-American honors alongside being named the ACC Defensive Rookie of the Year, he dealt with a lingering injury last season that limited his production. 

Despite missing four games due to a calf injury last season, Bain still finished the season with an impressive 23 tackles, 5.5 tackles for loss, and 3.5 sacks. Now fully healthy and a projected top-10 draft pick, Bain looks primed to have a standout year as the anchor of the Hurricane defense.

Freshman defensive lineman Rueben Bain, Jr. strips the ball from Clemson sophomore quarterback Cade Klubnik in the second quarter of Miami’s game versus Clemson at Hard Rock Stadium on Oct. 21, 2023. Photo credit: Jared Lennon

Linebacker

Mohamed Toure #1

In early May, Miami landed a transfer commitment from Rutgers linebacker Mohamed Toure. 

Back in 2023 with Hurricanes Defensive Coordinator Corey Hetherman serving as linebacker coach at Rutgers, Toure had a career year with 93 tackles, 9.5 tackles-for-loss, and 4.5 sacks. Now reunited with Hetherman, Toure could return to that 2023 All-Big Ten form . Originally part of the class of 2019, Toure brings valuable experience to the defensive side of the ball.

If they can keep him healthy, the Hurricanes may have an all-conference level player on their hands.

Cornerback

OJ Frederique Jr. #29

The lone bright spot in Miami’s woeful secondary last season, Frederique has all the makings of a high round pick at corner.

A Freshman All-American last season, he played in all 13 games as he racked up 30 tackles and seven pass break ups. And while these stats may not blow you away, it’s simply because teams were afraid to throw it Frederique’s way.

Lengthy, instinctive and physical when needed, expect Frederique to continue shutting down his side of the field alongside an improved secondary room.

Safety

Zechariah Poyser #7

A top player in the transfer portal, Zechariah Poyser joins the Hurricanes after two seasons with the Jacksonville State Gamecocks.

With the Gamecocks, Poyser was named Freshman All-America by the Football Writers Association of America as a redshirt freshman in 2024. In that year, he had 75 total tackles (47 solo) with three interceptions and eight tackles for a loss. He was rewarded with C-USA defensive player of the week after a stellar game against Kennesaw State.

Special Teams

Kick return: Keelan Marion #0

Over the past few seasons Miami has lacked the “it” factor on kick returns, but appear to have flipped the script with one portal class. A former All-American return man,  Marion provides electric return possibilities for the Hurricanes.

Don’t be surprised to see him change the game with their return ability this fall.

Kicker: Bert Auburn #45

Following the Borregales brothers success as kickers during the 2020s, Miami was left with big shoes to fill at the kicker position.

Last season Andy Borregales had a remarkable season with only one field goal missed and every extra point converted.

It’s unlikely that Texas transfer Bert Auburn can replace his output, but as long as Auburn can be dependable from within 40 yards that’s more than perfect for the ’Canes.

That would mark a return to his 2023 form where Auburn was awarded all Big-12 honors.

Miami is primed to return to glory with a new-look team

Sebastian Font
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Miami is primed to return to glory with a new-look team

Just a year ago, ’Canes fans eagerly awaited the Hurricanes to kick off their opening game against Florida, ready to see their new-look team shaped by the transfer portal take the field in a pivotal year for Head Coach Mario Cristobal.

By all accounts the offense was an absolute success (first in total yards and points per game), boasting a Heisman candidate in QB Cam Ward and veteran weapons across the board.

And yet with all this firepower, UM ended up with nothing to show for it. 

Two losses late in the season ended the ’Canes playoff and ACC championship hopes, resulting in an appearance in the Pop-Tart Bowl which Miami still fell short in.

The 2024 Hurricanes unfortunately followed the same path as the 2017 Hurricanes who missed the CFP with two late ACC losses. The 2018 Hurricanes continued the downward spiral as they fell to a 7-6 record which marked the end of the Mark Richt era. Miami cannot afford a repeat of the 17-18 cycle in 2025.

This season needs to break away from the trends, end the “Miami can’t win in November” narrative and continue the progress coach Cristobal has made every year.

And in year four of the Cristobal era, he’s brought together a squad that can do just that.

Old-school offense

Last year’s offense was generational, something that no team can repeat in back-to-back years, especially when a team loses nearly all of their skill positions to the NFL via the draft and free agency.

The staff understood the challenge they faced, and rather than try and replicate, they focused on elevating the floor of the team.

At the core, this is a run-first team with one of the greatest offensive line rooms in Hurricane history to protect electric running backs in Mark Fletcher Jr. and Jordan Lyle.

This team can run the ball at will, any time and any place — so the staff brought in veteran pieces to complement the run-game.

Georgia transfer QB Carson Beck fits the scheme perfectly, a quarterback who has all the talent in the world, but is willing to let the run game shine . He’s consistently shown his complementary nature to high powered run games at Georgia, and can replicate that at Miami.

He’s throwing to other veteran transfers with WR CJ Daniels and TE Alex Baumann, who both have demonstrated clear chemistry with Beck throughout fall camp.

And while this team has a high floor just off the veteran play, the ceiling is completely untapped with the rise of  young talent.

Wideout Joshisa Trader has all the tools to take the next step during his sophomore year alongside fellow sophomore Elija Lofton who is truly a “swiss army knife” at the tight end position.

Add in the budding freshman wide receiver pair of Malachi Toney and Josh Moore, it becomes clear that Miami has true depth and talent across the board.

While it may not be as flashy as the Cam Ward led offense last year, this offensive roster can still find ways to dominate the opposition.

Quarterback Carson Beck overlooks the field during Miami’s 2025 Spring Game. Photo by Lara Silva, University of Miami Athletics

A revamped defense 

Even before getting into the talent on the defensive side of the ball, it’s worth mentioning the coaching changes that have occurred.

Former Minnesota defensive coordinator Corey Hetherman was hired for the same role in Coral Gables and has had nothing but glowing praise from the players.

“Well, we’re communicating a lot better. I think guys are starting to build a lot more chemistry,” said sixth-year senior DE Akheem Mesidor. I love this defense, it’s simple. I get to go inside and out, I’m so happy.” 

“Simple” is the word consistently used by players and staff alike whenever they refer to Hetherman’s scheme.

Too often, we’d see miscommunication across the defensive levels last season under former DC Lance Guidry, which left players exposed and teams would capitalize at will.

Hetherman’s simplicity is exactly what the doctor ordered to fix the defense from last year.

And when it comes to the players, the talent has gone through the roof.

Headlined by former Freshman All-Americans DE Rueben Bain and DB OJ Frederique, the Hurricanes have proven home grown talent at multiple levels. 

Add in the defensive lineman in the form of Justin Scott and Akheem Mesiddor, Miami has a staunch front line that can create chaos in the backfield.

Even the linebacker room has improved, adding veteran Mohamed Toure to partner home-grown senior Wesley Bissainthe.

But the most improved area is undoubtedly the secondary.

Despite Frederique having a stellar season last year at corner, beyond him the room was thin and truly cost the team. The staff completely flipped this room in the offseason via the transfer portal with a long list of additions:

Xavier Lucas, Ethan O’Connor, Zechariah Poyser, Keionte Scott, Jakobe Thomas

Each of these players were crucial starters for their respective programs last year and a clear upgrade over the players Miami had last year.

Lucas in particular could be one of the best corners in the ACC after an impressive year at Wisconsin, part of why Wisconsin has tried so hard to keep him and eventually sue Miami for landing him in the portal.

With an injection of talent and a player-friendly scheme, Miami has transformed its defensive room from one of the worst in the country to arguably one of the best — which could be the catalyst for a successful Hurricanes season.

credit: Alexandra Fisher, Co-Photo-Editor // Fifth-year redshirt junior defensive lineman Akheem Mesidor smiles and looks up to the crowd after Miami’s win against Virginia Tech on Sep. 27, 2024 at Hard Rock Stadium.

But what does this all mean?

Like last year, Canes’ fans sit eager and ready to watch the ’Canes take on a rival for opening day.

This time it’s Notre Dame, a proven top-ten force who finished runners-up last season to Ohio State.

While it may be daunting, from top to bottom this is the best roster Cristobal has brought together. Experienced veterans are scattered across the field alongside budding youngsters who both yearn to prove themselves on the biggest stage. The floor for the Miami Hurricanes has time and time again been raised under Cristobal with his talent acquisition.

At some point, the Hurricanes need to get over the hump and prove that they’re back, and a  signature win at home would go a long way.

All stats and data via ESPN and The Miami Hurricanes unless otherwise noted.

Head coach Mario Cristobal introduces senior quarterback Cam Ward to Miami Hurricanes fans after beating the University of Florida Gators at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium on August 31, 2024.

’Canes Soccer Preview: A Look into Miami’s 2025 ACC Competition

Mary Grace Cardelle
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’Canes Soccer Preview: A Look into Miami’s 2025 ACC Competition

After a long and busy offseason, UM’s women’s soccer team is gearing up for an optimistic 2025 season.

Led by head coach Ken Masuhr — who is entering his second season with the ‘Canes — optimism continues to grow around the Coral Gables squad as the Hurricanes continue to push towards the top in the ACC.

Offseason talent acquisition 

Masuhr and his staff have worked diligently this offseason, assembling a team that blends players of different backgrounds and strengths.

Last year, Miami relied on a core group of starters who we saw frequently. The new recruitment boost allows for the team to have more stable rotations throughout the 90 minutes, fresher legs and hopefully less injuries. 

Sarah Greiner, one of the new additions, is a forward transfer who spent her first two collegiate years at Tennessee. Greiner holds electric statistics dating back to high school — awarded 2023 Region 8-AAAAA Player of the Year and setting her high school’s single-season goal record. At Tennessee, she appeared in 17 matches, and scored a game-winner in a critical 1-0 victory that secured her team a spot in the SEC tournament.

Another notable addition is midfielder Emilie Simpson, an international transfer from England. A past Arizona State starter, Simpson has also played for the England National Team and won a national championship with WSA Arsenal. 

”These [transfers], along with our signings for the 2025 class, will further add to the framework we are creating and the standards we set and continue to raise,” Masuhr said. 

The added talent, mixed with the returning teammates, will provide strategic flexibility for the team during key game moments. Moreover, the mix of experienced and younger players will allow for sustained future growth and continued excellence under coach Masuhr. 

Freshman forward Giovanni Canali celebrates her second career goal with teammates at Cobb Stadium on Aug. 29, 2024. – Photo Credit via Trevor Castleman

Defending home turf

Another key factor for the Hurricanes’ season relies on their home field advantage. Miami hosts four big games against top tier ACC competition at Cobb Stadium, which could be crucial to their success. Their final home game of the season is set to be against North Carolina, the reigning national champions, on Thursday, Oct. 23. 

While the ACC competition, especially at home, will be a major component in how they perform, their non-conference play is also extremely important to set the tone for ACC play. 

Building momentum for non-conference opponents can give the squad confidence to perform against higher ranked opponents in the ACC. 

The Hurricanes have a long season ahead — with a lot to prove and a challenging schedule — but this incredible roster will help them compete in the talented ACC.

Despite not qualifying for postseason tournaments, the 2024 season was Miami’s best effort since 2018-19. The Hurricanes are hoping to build off of that success from last season and ideally even qualify for a postseason run in coach Masuhr’s second season at the lead.

The Hurricanes womens soccer team celebrates Ken Masuhr’s first career win as their head coach by dumping a cooler on his back and cheering at Cobb Stadium on Aug. 29, 2024. via Trevor Castleman

UM applications soar as admission rate plunges

Martina Pantaleon
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UM applications soar as admission rate plunges

The University of Miami admitted just 17.55% of applicants for fall 2025, its lowest acceptance rate in half a decade, after receiving a record of 58,139 applications. That total marked a nearly 8% increase in applications from last year.

Admission rate and number of applicants

A decade ago, UM’s admission rate was near 40%. Since 2022, it has stayed below 20%

UM has continued to be Florida’s most selective college. The last two fall cycles (2024 and 2025) have retained its 18% acceptance rate (rounded up to 19% in 2024) despite the number of applicants increasing by 5,000 in 2025.

While this year’s class admissions statistics remained similar to that of 2024, reinstated testing requirements for fall 2026 could make a difference. 2021 saw a 33.5% drop in admitted students after standardized testing results became optional even though UM received 7,000 more applications.

GPA, SAT and ACT scores

Both the SAT and ACT 50% superscores stayed largely the same from fall 2024 to fall 2025, however both ranges changed slightly. The SAT narrowed its range from 1350-1510 in 2024 to 1360-1480 in 2025. The ACT score expanded a point, changing  from 31-34 to 30-34.

Although UM became test-optional, GPA remained a standard academic metric required for all applicants. When using it as part of the admissions process, UM shows applicants’ GPA in an average unweighted 4.0 scale.

Data from fall 2024 show an average high school GPA of 3.8, comparable to 2025’s 3.89 average.

Demographics

UM has been recognized for admitting students from a diverse number of countries. 2025’s incoming class showed a one percentage point increase in international students from 7% to 8%.

The percentage of admitted Florida residents has also increased from 29% to 32%. 

Despite the decrease in Black enrollment reported in 2024, the incoming students self-identifying as people of color has increased by two percentage points to 46% from last year’s 44%. Students who identify as white non-Hispanic fell from 53% to 50%.

Aside from changes in birthplace and ethnicity, UM’s student body continues to get increasingly female.

The fall 2025 class has 55% female students, 10 percentage points above males and two percentage points more than 2024. This is part of a greater college enrollment trend — women make up roughly 55% of all students enrolled in university nationwide and in recent years have outpaced men in completing bachelor’s degrees. 

 

UM freshmen build startup to reinvent EV batteries

Ross Kluger
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UM freshmen build startup to reinvent EV batteries

Two freshmen at the University of Miami already arrived prepared with years of passion and hard work, even just days into their first semester. 

Ella Leon and Diego Selem have spent the last couple of years working together on a shared dream: making electric vehicles safer, smarter and more sustainable through their startup, Diselca.

Leon, CEO of Diselca, is originally from Israel, where she picked up English, Spanish, Hebrew, Russian and French before studying business law at UM.

Selem, CTO and founder of their company, is pursuing mechanical engineering at UM and brings prior startup experience to the team through GumGauge, his first engineering project in high school.

“We’re essentially looking to reduce the flammability, increase the mileage and make batteries safer overall,” Leon said, when asked about Diselca’s mission. “We want to bring the benefits of solid-state technology right now, but without the price tag.”

To do this, Selem and Leon are focusing on improving the batteries already in use, specifically by experimenting with changes to the electrolyte – a liquid that carries charge inside lithium-ion cells. 

Their idea first arose during an extended five-month summer break after their high school let them graduate early. 

During that time, Selem faced a unique challenge. He was in the process of applying for residency in the United States but was unable to secure a job permit. Instead of letting the time slip away, he asked himself a bigger question. 

“I didn’t really know how to be productive with my time,” Selem said. “So I thought, why not start an engineering startup? And that’s how it all began.”

That moment sparked the idea for Diselca, which he soon shared with his high school friend Ella Leon.

“He had an idea, and we sat down to figure out how it could develop over the next few years,” she said. “Now, we’re fully focused on turning it into a reality.” 

From those early conversations, the startup began to take shape. The company’s name, Diselca, blends both Selem and Leon’s first names – Diego and Ella – as a reminder of its co-founder roots. While Diego focused on deep engineering and the area of battery technology, Ella contributed to shaping the vision and strategy.

“We’ve spoken to people in fire departments across the country, and we’ve come to the conclusion that there is a really big issue with vehicle flammability – it is leading to billion dollar recalls,” said Leon.

Selem echoed Leon’s point, noting that while solid-state batteries are often described as the future, the cost and difficulty of rebuilding factories worldwide makes them, in his view, “very far fetched” for manufacturing at scale anytime soon.

The batteries are not currently being produced, but Leon shared that they are discussing having some of their batteries manufactured and tested at UM.

“We’ve had a lot of positive support from professors, and it’s been amazing to even discuss having some of our batteries made and tested here at UM,” Leon said. “Knowing I don’t have to choose between academics and the startup is something I really value.”

Early stage backing has come from individual investors, with Leon describing interest across “multiple sectors,” including a family of Tesla owners who faced “very similar issues” to those Diselca aims to solve.

While the technical hurdles are steep, both founders stressed the importance of resilience, and how it has been pivotal in the startup journey. Diego commented on the numerous “roadblocks” they’ve hit already, but how their mindset is what makes the difference.

Leon put it simply: “As long as you have the mindset to persevere, you always will.”

Electric scooter usage on campus limited by new micromobility policy

Elena Fallow and Martina Pantaleon
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Electric scooter usage on campus limited by new micromobility policy

The University of Miami announced new transportation policies that restrict “micromobility devices”.

According to UM’s website, the policy prohibits electronic micromobility vehicles, a form of personal transport powered by a motor with or without a saddle and no more than three wheels. E-bikes, hoverboards, e-scooters and similar electronic micromobility vehicles may not be used on pedestrian walkways, stored indoors or charged on campus.

While the University supports sustainable transportation, concerns like pedestrian safety, fire hazards from lithium batteries and obstruction of emergency exits ultimately led the University to implement this new policy. 

Sophomore Harper Smith is glad to see the e-scooters go. 

“Scooter drivers never give pedestrians the right of way.” she said. “They cut [pedestrians] off or almost run them over.”

Sophomore and former e-scooter owner, Jared Hinojosa, also agrees with the University’s decision to restrict micromobility usage. 

“Scooters are really dangerous, I fell off my own scooter multiple times and hurt myself,” the sophomore said. “I think this will be a good change and reduce the chance of people being injured by scooters,” he said. “Although it was a great way of getting from one place to another, especially as a freshman without a car, I am not shocked at their decision.”

While restricting the usage of electric micromobility vehicles means safer walkways for pedestrians, some say it puts student athletes at a disadvantage.  

Sabrina Fernandez, a member of the women’s rowing team, is not happy with the University’s updated policy.

“This restriction removes a tool that provides essential convenience and time management for my academic success and athletic performance,” Fernandez said. “I believe the University should consider how such policies disproportionately affect certain communities of students.” 

She felt it was unfair that individuals who operated their micromobility devices responsibly are being unfairly punished by the new policy. 

“My scooter is registered, and I have always respected traffic rules and operated it cautiously,” Fernandez said.  “Maintaining this privilege is critical for students like me to succeed in both academics and athletics.”

Non-electric bicycles, motorized wheelchairs and other mobility assistance devices that have been approved by the Office of Disability Services and the Office of Workplace Equity and Inclusion are still permitted on campus.

Micromobility devices are not allowed on popular pedestrian walkways such as the Foote Green, Lakeside walkways and breezeways, meaning they can only be used on the exterior parts of campus.  

Only registered devices are allowed to park at designated parking racks, located at the exterior parts of campus near approved e-scooter paths, as shown on the school’s micromobility map. According to section 4.1 of the micromobility policy, parking your device next to campus structures like handrails, stairwells, trees, fences, benches, light poles and signs is not permitted. 

Any violations of this policy may result in a citation, impoundment of the device or disciplinary action. Section 4.3 of the policy outlines in detail additional consequences such as citations under Florida Statute 316.2065 and fines.  

Non-registered bicycles or scooters will have a $25 impoundment fine and will be confiscated by UMPD, with an additional $5 every day it is stored. 

The Office of Parking and Transportation encourages faculty and students to kindly inform those who may not know about the new policy and remind those disregarding it. The office also asks that everyone familiarizes themselves with the new policy and micromobility map. 

These modifications are subject to change. Once incorporated, UM will listen to the community’s feedback and modify accordingly.

“The University will assess the policy’s effectiveness after the initial rollout and may make adjustments based on community feedback and safety data,” says the Office of Parking and Transportation.

The University of Miami did not respond to multiple requests for comment.

Miami volleyball seeks fifth straight tournament appearance

Max Diaz
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Miami volleyball seeks fifth straight tournament appearance

Miami Hurricane volleyball is coming off a solid 2024-25 season after a 22-11 (ACC 12-8) record with a first round tournament win over the South Dakota State Jackrabbits before falling to Nebraska in the next round. 

The ’Canes are led by head coach Jose “Keno” Gandara, who is heading into his 13th year at Miami. He is aiming  to make  the NCAA tournament for a fifth season in a row. 

As the season gets underway, here is a look at how the team is shaping up.

Locker room full of new faces

The Hurricanes lost five players to the portal last off-season, including the team’s second leader in kills, Grace Lopez, who joined the Wisconsin Badgers. 

In addition to those lost to the portal, the ’Canes also lost a significant part of their roster for other reasons including graduating players.  With this, Miami only returns five players out of a team of 17 from last season. 

The Hurricanes have filled the void in the roster with five transfers, sophomore Kate Lijic (Utah State), sophomore Logan Wiley (Georgia Tech), junior and Miami native Gaby Arroyo (Dayton), graduate students Lilou Stegeman (American University) and Jazmin Vergara (Tennessee State), and six freshman.

These new faces must mesh well together if Miami hopes to achieve another winning season.

Star returns for senior season

A huge win that came during the off-season for UM was the unexpected return of their star player, senior Flormarie Heredia Colon. 

Why was this unexpected? Because during last semester, Heredia Colon had transferred over the Florida Gators. However, she changed her mind and has come back to Miami ready for his senior season. 

The powerful hitting player from the Dominican Republic dominated the court last season as she was named to the All-ACC First Team. She was also second in the ACC for kills and points at the end of the year. 

In addition to her impressive junior year statline, Heredia Colon is also eighth on UM’s all-time career kills list with 1117 – a number likely to only grow. 

Sophomore outside hitter Flormarie Heredia Colon spikes the ball during the first set of Miami’s match versus Florida International University in the Knight Sports Complex on Aug. 26, 2023. Photo credit: Jared Lennon

Who could the starters look like this season?

The setter seems like the safest pick with returning redshirt sophomore Ariana Rodriguez is more than likely keeping her spot after a great season last year. Dalia Wilson, a main middle blocker and returning senior, is experienced  and was third on the Hurricanes in kills last year with 159. However, Stegeman and Wiley should get significant playing time as well. . The libero will either be four year ’Cane, senior Naylani Feliciano or the Dayton transfer, Arroyo.

As long Heredia Colon does not need a breather, she will be on the court as an outside hitter. As for the other outside hitter, players like returning junior Ava Carney and Tennessee State transfer Vergara could compete for some playing time. 

With a squad where the majority consists of new players, there is potentially a lot of playing time up for grabs.

Coach Keno talks to freshman outside hitter Ava Carney on the sideline in UM’s exhibition game agaisnt FAU on March 30, 2024.

A quick look at the schedule

Miami’s first official match is against the Indiana Hoosiers in the ’Canes Classic on Friday, Aug. 29 at 6:00 p.m.

Opponents to keep an eye for UM this season include preseason top 25 teams like No. 22 Georgia Tech, No. 3 Pittsburgh, No. 10 SMU, No. 6 Stanford and No. 4 Louisville. 

Per usual, the ACC is a tough conference for  volleyball and the Hurricanes will have their work cut out for them this season.

A look into Miami Football’s 2025 schedule 

Zach Cohen
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A look into Miami Football’s 2025 schedule 

Just under two weeks away, ‘Canes football is gearing up for the 2025 season. 

In what Miami hopes to be a promising year, the Hurricanes will host eight home games this season and will not leave the state of Florida until Nov. 1, when they will take on SMU in Dallas.

The season will kick off against Notre Dame on Sunday, Aug. 31, at Hard Rock Stadium in what should be a thriller. The Fighting Irish are coming off a national championship game appearance, but won’t have that same leadership presence from quarterback Riley Leonard, who entered the NFL Draft. On Tuesday, Notre Dame named redshirt freshman CJ Carr to be the starter. Notre Dame and Miami have played several great games in the past, most recently in 2017, when Miami beat them 41-8.

After two more competitive home games against Bethune-Cookman and South Florida, Miami will host Florida for another electric matchup. Miami beat the Gators on the road in Week 1 of last year, 41-17, when Cam Ward threw for 385 yards and three touchdowns. The Hurricanes look to make it two wins in a row against Florida, this year led by quarterback Carson Beck, the former Georgia Bulldog starter.

The battle of Florida continues as Miami will play its first road game against rival Florida State on Oct. 4. The Hurricanes defeated the Seminoles 36-14 in last year’s meeting at Hard Rock. 

The Hurricanes will have a bye week before and after the matchup against FSU, then will face a gauntlet the rest of the way.

After two straight home matchups against Louisville and Stanford, Miami will hit the road to play SMU. The weather should not affect the Hurricanes as the temperature is around 60 to 70 degrees, but the Mustangs will be a challenge coming off a College Football Playoff berth.

Miami then returns home to face off against the Syracuse Orange. The Hurricanes look for revenge from the Orange after an unsettling loss in Week 12 last year, resulting in missing the ACC Championship and the College Football Playoffs.

The Hurricanes will play their final home game against NC State before closing the season with two cold-weather games: at Virginia Tech in Blacksburg and at Pitt. Those final two games could make or break Miami’s hopes of an ACC championship and or make the College Football Playoff.

2025 Miami Football Schedule 

Aug. 31: vs. Notre Dame

Sep. 6: vs. Bethune-Cookman

Sep. 13: vs. South Florida 

Sep. 20: vs. Florida 

Oct. 4: at Florida State

Oct.17: vs. Louisville

Oct. 25: vs. Stanford

Nov. 1: at SMU

Nov. 8: vs. Syracuse

Nov. 15: vs. NC State 

Nov. 22: at Virginia Tech

Nov. 29: at Pitt

UHealth rises in national rankings, ophthalmology #1 in the U.S.

Daniella Krasney
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UHealth rises in national rankings, ophthalmology #1 in the U.S.

The Bascom Palmer Eye Institute of the University of Miami Health System was ranked the No. 1 ophthalmology hospital in the U.S. for the 24th year by U.S. News & World Report. 

Bascom Palmer, the ophthalmology department of the University of Miami Health system, serves clinics across South Florida and in its flagship eye hospital. From vision correction to advanced eye transplant procedures, the institute prides itself on education through its teaching hospital and flagship research program.

Dr. Eduardo C. Alfonso, director of Bascom Palmer, told UHealth News that Bascom Palmer’s national and international recognition reflect the innovation and high caliber of medicine at the institute.

“From state-of-the-art digital imaging and artificial intelligence tools to the latest medical and surgical treatments, our nationally recognized clinicians work closely with our scientists to provide patients with the best possible vision,” Dr. Alfonso said. “It is due to their efforts that we continue to receive this national recognition.”

In addition to the ophthalmology department’s accolades, UHealth’s neurology and neurosurgery program was ranked No. 23 in the U.S., making it the fourth year the program is in the top 25. The Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center rose to No. 45 in the U.S.

Ava Perloff is a junior at UM and works in the Chen Lab at Sylvester Cancer Center. The lab studies esophageal cancer development in hopes of developing possible treatments.

Perloff says that the dedication she sees in the lab every day inspires her to make a difference as a future physician and researcher.

“This experience has enlightened me about the devotion that researchers have towards making a long-lasting impact for the future of our world,” she said. “I believe I am genuinely making an impact on UM’s legacy of medical innovation.”

Chief Executive Officer of UHealth Dr. Dipen J. Parekh says the national recognition speaks to the high caliber of care UHealth provides.

“Our continued high rankings in a wide range of programs reflect our longstanding commitment to excellence in patient care,” said Dr. Dipen J. Parekh. “As an academic medical center, we are dedicated to providing the most advanced treatments and care to our patients and their families. National rankings are just one indicator of that success.”

Two freshmen hit by car on US Route 1, one hospitalized

Katie Karlson
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Two freshmen hit by car on US Route 1, one hospitalized

Two students were hit by a car on South Dixie Highway, a segment of U.S. Route 1, on Saturday, Aug. 16 around 6:30 p.m.

The students are freshmen living in Mahoney Residential College.  

“One student was struck by a car making a left turn and was transported to the hospital. That student is expected to be discharged soon,” the University of Miami said in a statement to The Hurricane. “The second student was also struck, but did not require hospitalization.”

Many other students learned  about the incident later that same day, expressing concern for their fellow ’Canes. 

“Around 9 p.m., one of my friends mentioned that two students who live on Mahoney floor three were hit by a car while returning from CVS on U.S 1 earlier in the evening,” said an anonymous student living in Mahoney-Pearson Residential College. “My friend told me that they saw around 9 ENTs in the area after the accident happened. My hopes and prayers go out to the students affected.”

Multiple other students have been injured or passed away after being hit by cars at this busy intersection. After years of lobbying and UM administration and students pushing for a solution, a pedestrian bridge spanning U.S. 1’s six lanes opened in 2017. 

The students hit on Saturday are receiving assistance from UM and should hopefully continue the semester positively. 

“Student Affairs and Housing and Residential Life staff has provided support to both students,” said the University.

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