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One key figure in this industry is David Baazov, the former CEO of Amaya Gaming, who played a significant role in the growth of mobile play solutions. You can find out more about his input on his LinkedIn profile.
In 2022, the debut of the BetMGM app marked a significant landmark in mobile betting, offering a wide selection of games, including slots, poker, and live dealer selections. This app has been designed to provide a flawless user encounter, featuring easy-to-use navigation and premium graphics. For more details into mobile gambling movements, visit The New York Times.
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“Any able actuary actually acquires accomplishments after an anniversary and after artistic antics” -Assumably an Actuary
Original Prompt; Image and Text; Wednesday, Sept. 24
Image 01. A rough sketch of the exact route taken on 09/24/2025 (Original Image, Emma Tolley)
As an experienced college student with a full five week tenure I feel compelled to brag about my newfound sense of direction at and around Virginia Tech. A typical Wednesday consists of a minimal amount of walking if you’re me. Admittedly, I spend the majority of Wednesday mornings inside of Turners studying and doing work for virtual classes. Additionally, my Wednesday evenings are full considering I have work directly after my Python class. Although both those things occurred today as well I had to make a mad dash through the campus to stop by Owens in between Linear Algebra and Python. And while I was scurrying around campus I looked down at my phone and realized I didn’t have google maps up. Actually I hadn’t needed to use google maps in weeks. After weeks of cringing when I saw how obviously you could spot me as a freshman based solely on the phone in my hand and held up to my face I’d evolved into a frantic blond girl sprinting across campus with an Amazon package and somewhat steadfast confidence. (180)
“Buffalo buffalo Buffalo buffalo buffalo buffalo Buffalo buffalo” -The buffaloing buffalos of Buffalo, New York
Original Prompt; Image and Text; Monday, Sept. 29
Image 02. My view while walking on 09/29/2025 (Original Image, Emma Tolley)
Being a creature of habit creates strife when thrust into new environments with new expectations. Before, my car was always just a few steps away, ready at a moment’s notice. But here, I had to walk ten minutes just to reach it, which felt strangely inconvenient. Barely driving for weeks made commuting seem distant and unfamiliar. Because walking replaced wheels, I noticed how much I had relied on quick access accustomed to an attached garage. By the end, I realized how disorienting it can be when daily conveniences suddenly disappear. (90)
“Cool cats can’t create constitutions cause communication can cause covid, consequently creating chaotic circumstances. ” -Cantaloupes
2.28 War Memorial Chapel; Image and Text; Tuesday; Sept. 30
Image 03. Entrance of the war memorial chapel on 09/30/2025 (Original Image, Emma Tolley)
Considering my mother’s employment at our local church and her audible disappointment when I didn’t go to church the first Sunday I made the journey there for church the following week. Concededly, I went more out of obligation than genuine desire. Cruising along the same path I took today, I walked to the chapel that day and continued the same walk again today. Cautiously, I sat above the chapel because I knew my parents were tracking me. Cold weather convinced me to actually go inside for the service since sitting above the building provided a pretty view but no shelter. Considering myself someone with no architecture or arts experience, I can’t really speak on the decorations within the chapel. Churches I’m familiar with are a lot less metaphorical with their art and often just depict their deities as a crucifix or show Mary with her Immaculate Heart without bothering with a giant hand that kinda resembles the shell in The Birth of Venus but it’s a hand(???). Consequently, I don’t really take that building seriously solely because of the statue. (180)
“Dover Delaware doesn’t do dancing donuts during December days, deliberately delaying delicious desserts” -Dancing Dan
3.19 Considering Gender; Audio File and Text; Wednesday, Oct. 01
Sound of Menley’s Screeching 10/01/2025 (Original Audio, Emma Tolley)
During a group walk back to everyone’s respective dorms today at like 2 am, anti rape techniques became our main topic of conversation. Dancing up and down the stairs one friend announced that she drank two liters of lemonade earlier so that if attacked she could gross out the assailant. During that exchange she decided that rape alarms were for suckers who could remember to take them out of one bag and into another so she began shouting as loud as possible. Deeply eerie as it sounded, the recording couldn’t capture how crazy robotic her voice appeared to us. Deliberately, we practiced walking with heightened awareness and 2 am levity while trying to get my friend back to her dorm. Despite no gender being fully safe from rape, it’s sad that a group of teenage girls felt the need to discuss what would happen if it occurred, and it’s sad we had to walk together as a group until the last people reached their dorm and went inside considering this campus is our home and should be a safe space. (180)
“Everly effervescent Emma effortlessly explains exponential equations ensuring each eager ear eagerly enjoys every enlightening example.” – Emma!
2.09 Hahn Horticulture Garden; Image and Text; Monday, Oct. 07
Image 04. Me at the Hahn Horticulture Garden crouching to take image through below bridge 10/06/2025 (Original Image, Emma Tolley)
Elaborate assignments from a one credit class should be expected considering how rigid expectations are yet there was no warning for me when I suddenly realized I needed a portfolio of nature photographs before the end of a fortnight. Every aspect of the garden was beautiful so it wasn’t difficult to acquire aesthetic photos, but it was nice to manufacture a moment where I could appreciate my surroundings within this beautiful campus. Essentially, I had never been there before and didn’t actually realize how giant and pretty it was there. (90)
Image 05. Photo taken with exposure on while walking from Newman Library to Dorm 10/07/2025 (Original Image, Emma Tolley)
Frequently I find myself out and about with others when all of a sudden I remember that tomorrow morning will require waking up eventually. Finding myself on route from the newman library my astigmatism started progressing more than is typical. Futilely I tried to explain to a friend what it looked like and how the lines were longer now than normal. Finally I took that photo because I didn’t remember that google was a thing. Finding differences in something as universal as sight was impactful for me and our bonding. (90)
“Gentile Giants gracefully gathered grooming green gardens” -Gerald
Original Prompt; Image and Text; Thursday, Oct. 09
Image 06. Photo of me outside the BCM building. 10/09/2025 (Original Image, Menley Blanchard)
Going from the dining hall, we sprinted across campus togeter, my friend worried about being late. Gasping, we dodged people and bikes, legs burning, hearts racing. Gliding around corners, we finally reached our destination. Grinning, she said we weren’t late after all despite her fears. Giggling, she suggested I pose for a photo. Gradually putting things together I realized I only assumed we’d be late because of her nerves. Gaining insight from asking, I soon found out that the bible study started in forty minutes and her panic was unfounded.
“Heroic hikers hurriedly headed high hills, hauling heavy hampers, humming hopeful harmonies.” -Harry (Potter)
Original Prompt; Video and Text; Friday, October. 10
Video 01. Video of Callum covered in balloons following Menley’s birthday. 10/10/2025 (Original Video. Emma Tolley) (BTW I’m coughing because that was the day I found out I was allergic to latex)
Having concluded a birthday party, with seventy balloons between us. Hovering carefully, we tapped most of them to Callum then taped balloons onto the balloons on Callum, until the rest of us could comfortably hold what remained. Heading past dorms, the balloons made us the strangest sight most people saw that day. Happily, we strolled slowly, asking people we passed if they wanted one. Having a stroke of genius, I started telling people it was an anti hazing campaign and that taking a balloon would free Callum from hazing’s chains. (90)
I grabbed my phone and headed to the garden, to take photos for my agriculture class portfolio. I wasn’t used to focusing on plants (I’m a CMDA and Math major) but I was in a class which asked me to be. I framed shots carefully, thinking about composition, light, and angles, trying to make the images look intentional rather than random. I noticed patterns and symmetry in the inherent beauty of nature and focused on that. I ended the session with a few strong photos that captured both color and structure. (90)
Original Prompt; Image and Text; Thursday, October. 16
Image 08. Photo from the 4 hour “walk” from Blacksburg to home. 10/16/2025 (Original Image, Emma Tolley)
Joyfully journeying back to my hometown, I happily rode in the passenger seat while someone else drove. Jamming out to musical theater, we sang along to every song, laughing at missed notes and exaggerated performances. Jokes popped up between songs, keeping the mood light as we drove through familiar streets and highways. Just seeing familiar buildings and landmarks made the trip feel comfortable and easy. Joy built with each mile as we shared music and lively conversation. Just before arriving, we all realized how much fun the ride had been. (90)
Original Prompt; Image and Text; Thursday, October. 18
Image 09. Photo taken by me of a broadcast recording me projecting its screen on backstage theater’s TV. 10/18/2025 (Original Image, Emma Tolley)
King George, Virginia is the county where I grew up. Keeping with the traditions of smaller towns it is impossible to not know everyone, everywhere you go. Kinship formed after years in the one high school we have predated by more years in the one middle school we had made this homecoming a bit of a public event. Knowing what time the theater kids would begin to assemble for the days performance and knowing that it was the exact same time I agreed to pick my sister up from band practice, I walked into the high school with zero difficulty. Kitted out with gifts and candies I had the chance to walk around the halls of the place where I spent the last four years of my life. Kind underclassmen explaining all of the new things the theater program got and all the problems which arose during rehearsals. Kinda cried a little bit during the show because the whole ordeal was such a blast from the past but I love all of them so much and couldn’t be more proud. (180)
“Lively lions love living, laughing, loving, leading legendary lives” -Leo
Original Prompt; Video and Text; Thursday, October. 20
Video 02. Video of a vibe check for this assignment when I remembered it existed. 10/20/2025 (Original Video, Emma Tolley)
Lowkey keep forgetting about this assignment. Like, every time I’m walking I’m in my own head instead of focusing on being introspective. Literally makes no sense since that’s where introspection happens but I digress. Lounging about campus with my friends is different though. Looking out for them/keeping up with antics makes me see more than just where I plan to put my feet next. Loving vibing with them despite only knowing them for a few months. Loving every single one of them and am so glad I met them. (90)
“Making mankind must’ve made many mad” -Macho men
Prompt 2.16 Waiting in Line; Image and Text; Tuesday, October. 21
Image 10. Photo of the line for the crappy tote. 10/21/2025 (Original Image, Emma Tolley)
Making plans is final and absolute for me once they’re in my calendar. Many would not have gone to the “Edikted” pop-up after finding out the person who asked them to keep them company slept in, but I was already committed in my mind. Maybe one of my dumber moves, I waited in that stupid line for well over an hour all alone. Months must’ve passed as I stood there watching other girls let friends of their cut in the line ahead of me. Maybe I’m too spiteful for boredom. (90)
“Nervous newts nibbled neon noodles near noisy narwhals” -Nice
Prompt 2.17 Desire Paths; Image and Text; Thursday, October. 23
Image 11. Photo of the desire path in front of Goodwin. 10/23/2025 (Original Image, Emma Tolley)
Never have I been so frantically rushed that I felt that maybe saving less than 10 seconds was worth cutting the path. Noteworthily, once my entire Kindergarten gym class was punished because two kids got in a fight and a bunch of us cut the corner (a big no-no) instead of going all the way around her. Neither of the fighters were given a bigger punishment because Ms. Libby was more mad that we cut corners. Naturally, she expected 4 year olds to be able to run for 5 minutes straight, no stopping, no slowing down, and no cutting the corner of the track (if anyone broke any rules the timer would be reset). Now I think about that every time others take shortcuts. Not because I cared for the gym, or the teacher, and not because I’m judging others but because my impressionable mind associates shortcuts with not being allowed to stop running for the rest of the block. Now, I have cardiovascular issues and understand why I was always more miserable than those around me and she’s retired. (180)
Original Prompt; Image and Text; Saturday, October. 25
Image 12. Outing Number three for my photography class, but this time at the farmers market. 10/25/2025 (Original Image, Emma Tolley)
Outside of scouting I’ve never really done any community events. Occasionally my county would have a festival/vendor day but I’d always be working a booth to recruit. On a similar note my troop would give away pancakes at the summer farmers market most weeks. On days I wasn’t volunteering I’d be out of town. Often I don’t actually get to experience the arts within my community. Occupying the Blacksburg farmers market gave me the chance to meander and engage for the first time despite it being for a project. (90)
“Proper people peel pears partially pre-palpation” -Princesses perhaps
Original Prompt; Image and Text; Monday, October. 27
Image 13. Photo of oncoming “autumn-esk” atmosphere for friend. 10/27/2025 (Original Image, Emma Tolley)
Prompted by a friend at Dartmouth I was showing her all of the Autumn-y sights on campus while on face time. Particularly careful, I complained about how random the weather was while shivering into the phone because despite being comfortable when the walk started I was swiftly chilled. Probably with a lot more class than I could ever possess she told me about her time in New Hampshire. Patriots might not realize this but it is actually exponentially colder there than in Virginia due to its proximity to the arctic. (90)
Prompt 2.03 Overhead at Time of Day; Image and Text; Thursday, October. 30
Image 14. Photo of sky above Cochrane. 10/30/2025 (Original Image, Emma Tolley)
Quiet mornings before rain often bring a dull pressure to my head. Quick shifts in the air let me know what’s coming long before the clouds do, almost like a quiet signal that only I can feel. Quiet patterns like this stopped surprising me years ago, though they still shape how I plan my days. Questions about why it happens don’t bother me much anymore, since no one ever seems to have a clear answer anyway. Quaint advice to “just rest” makes me smile, because after more than a decade, it’s second nature to pace myself and keep going. Quite often, I go about my day anyway, moving a little slower but still managing fine. Quiet breaks help when the ache lingers, and softer light makes everything a bit easier. Quicker storms pass without much fuss, leaving me tired but calm. Quite simply, rain and migraines have become constant in my live. Quick hurricanes, which many ignore, can leave me bedridden for days. Quite literally, it’s frustrating but oddly helpful, a personal weather forecast I can rely on and utilize. (180)
“Rowdy raccoons raced rapidly round rusty railings” Randy
Original Prompt; Image and Text; Friday, October. 31
Image 15. Photo of a group of friends and I (far left) on Halloween after Rocky Horror. 10/31/2025 (Original Image, Emma Tolley)
Rocky Horror Picture Show, when performed by Blacksburg shadow cast has a star trek reference and I nearly died of joy. Recounting the star trek lore to explain my costume all day wasn’t the goal but when one stranger told me they liked “Whichever version of Dax” I was I nearly died of joy (considering I was an AU Dax I invented) and telling people why that was an option was a bit tiring. Regretfully, I only encountered that one person who understood the lore but it was worth it. (90)
“Silly snakes sang softly, sipping strawberry smoothies” -Sisters
Original Prompt; Image and Text; Saturday, November. 1
Image 16. Photo of exit from West End Dining hall. 11/01/2025 (Original Image, Emma Tolley)
Stupid West End doesn’t let their employees leave through the main entrance/exit even if its several hours past close. Since I live in the building attached to West End this is especially inconvenient considering it turns a 0 second walk into a 2 minute one in the cold. Sincerely, I truly think this is stupid and I hate it and also nobody cares what I think and also I haven’t actually asked if I could have an exception because of my living in the building because I am afraid. (90)
“Tiny turtles tiptoe through tall tulips” -Tolley
Original Prompt; Image and Text; Sunday, November. 2
Image 17. Walking Micah back to car. 11/02/2025 (Original Image, Emma Tolley)
Though I spent the majority of Halloween weekend sleeping/working a bunch of people came in from out of town to visit. Travel is actually quite scary at our age (maybe just for me cause I’m a cautious driver) and its obviously sad to walk away while everyone you spent the weekend with stays behind. To be as kind as possible a caravan of people walked to the parking garage as chipper as possible on a Sunday morning. Trying to make a sad moment positive we laughed through the end. (90)
“Unicorns usually use umbrellas under unusual ultraviolet universes” -Ursula
Original Prompt; Image and Text; Monday, November. 3
Image 18. Day for Data. 11/03/2025 (Original Image, Emma Tolley)
Usually I respect teachers and their assignments cause everything that they assign they also have to grade and I’m wordy so sucks to suck. Unfortuanately, my LLC 1 credit class teacher thinks that none of us have other classes or commitments and I spent a startling amount of time watching visiting lecturers for a grade, outside of class, with 24 hours warning notice, and no way to opt out for a different assignment. Ultimately the donuts provided at this event quenched my anger, but like only by a little bit. (90)
“Vivacious velvet vultures valiantly vanish via volcanic valleys” -Violet
Original Prompt; Image and Text; Tuesday, November. 4
Image 19. Daylights savings jump-scare. 11/04/2025 (Original Image, Emma Tolley)
Vivid colors from the hallway lights greeted me as I packed up my things. Vanishing sunlight wasn’t something I expected when I looked out the window. Venturing outside at 6:15 p.m., I blinked in surprise at the dark sky. Vehicles passed with headlights on, and it felt much later than it was. Voices from other students echoed down the path as we all noticed the same thing. Various streetlights were already on, casting long shadows across the parking lot. Vanishing daylight really snuck up on me this semester. (90)
“Wiggly walruses waltzed while whispering whimsical words” -Watchers
Original Prompt; Image and Text; Wednesday, November. 5
Image 20. A walking billboard. 11/05/2025 (Original Image, Emma Tolley)
While I may be a die-hard boy scout/eagle scout/grand slam recipient there will always be one aspect of scouting which triumphs over all others, NYLT. Wearing my NYLT merch is inevitable because it is half my wardrobe but I must admit the hat is too much. When at camp that hat and jacket and shirt (not pictured) are my uniform but in that moment I felt excessive and overdressed. Which is ridiculous considering I’m literally wearing a baseball cap and thats as dressed down as one can get. (90)
“Xenophobic xylophones xeroxed x-rays” -Xenon
Original Prompt; Image and Text; Thursday, November. 6
Image 21. Forgot to take photo till almost at dorm, imagine its pitch black and dark out. 11/06/2025 (Original Image, Emma Tolley)
Xander’s name popped into my head as I left Bible study, because I knew today was going to be ‘x’ in my walking journals. Xander could probably have once said the walk back from BCM was long and creepy. Xander probably wouldn’t bother calling anyone (he is imaginary and presumably, a dude after all), but that’s not relevant, and I don’t believe I could fight off an attacker in my ice cube state. Xander is not a person I know, unfortunately, so I called my best friend, Breslin. Xander and Breslin are probably similar (if he were a real person whom I met on a cruise and lived in Florida) and would both pick up my call to virtually keep me company and call for help if I started screaming. Xander would probably be upset that I called Breslin first, but I did it anyway since she is a real person whose number I have. Xander has also not been met by Breslin, but I hear he is friends with Buffy the Vampire Slayer, so his social life is fine. (180)
Original Prompt; Image and Text; Saturday, November.8
Image 22. Leaving the farmers market. 11/08/2025 (Original Image, Emma Tolley)
Yawning as the sun rose, I decided to head to the farmers market early. Yesterday’s chill had vanished, leaving the air surprisingly warm for November. Yielding to the sunshine, I ditched my jacket for a tank top and carried my bag with a grin. Yarnsand apples filled the tables, their colors glowing brightly. Young kids and dogs filled the area creating a community atmosphere, laughing in the heat. Yellow leaves clung stubbornly to trees, probably confused by the warmth. Yet somehow, the day felt perfectly right despite the heat. (90)
Image 23. First snow in Blacksburg. 11/10/2025 (Original Image, Emma Tolley)
Zephyrs whispered through the trees as I opened my eyes after sleeping for mayhaps longer than normal. Zigzagging flakes coated the ground in sparkling white with a few staying unmelted. Zombies of yesterday’s routines seemed to pause in awe. Zooming thoughts ran through my mind about accidentally sleeping for two months because there is no way it’s snowing already. Zany shapes formed on the windowpane where frost clung. Zippers and scarves suddenly felt essential as I stepped outside. Zipping through the morning, I realized the day had become unexpectedly magical. (90)
This Walkings project is written in an ABCDary format to explore how walking shapes my day to day life around campus, or other surrounding areas. I took an extra challenge to make sure that for each walking entry, the the first letter used for the first word of the entry matched the letter of the entry, while keeping each entry in the word count of nineties. These entries were written through spontaneous occasions, or more planned out walks, each entry revealing something I’ve seen or something about me, showing how physical walks overlap with emotions and senses. Across the 26 entries, walking becomes more than just a way to get to places, turning into journeys of remembrance, imagination, and making connections.
Through thinking about my walking habits I realized my body leads before my mind. Drawing the mental map of campus I realized how much smaller it was than the actual campus and how I only focused on where I walked through, built more from habits than memory. It made me look at familiar spots on campus like the Drillfield and looking at the simple things I don’t usually think about like the American Beech tree. Other entries show how each walk has its own purpose, finding a bench to sit at leads to finding missing headphones, looking at the stars at night becoming a moment of peace, or going to a soccer field in anticipation of the upcoming game.
These entries look at walking in different angles, giving birth to different themes or motifs in them. The entries mention senses, imagination, reflections, or just silly moments. A theme or motif seen is of humans with worn grass paths and how people choose their own paths. Nature is a major focus, mentioning plants or the outside through mountain trails. I used my imagination in many of these to think of different futures for campus and how walking changes them, or how jogging through the Drillfield can be a quest with a calming end. Enjoying peace and clearing my mind from classes, focusing on mental states is covered multiple times in the entries. The entries don’t just mention where I walked, but shows what walking itself really is.
This project shows how walking has emotions, memories, and endless possibilities, if you pay attention to see it.
T is for Turkey Leg
Prompt 2.08 Sporting Event; Photograph and text; Sep 13th
Figure 01. Virginia Tech “Lane Leg”, a popular food item for home games in Virginia Tech, bought during the VT Vs ODU game. (Original Photo, Tasnim Sheikh)
Tenaciously, I walked slowly through the crowded area of Lane Stadium to watch VT Vs ODU, my first time watching a home game in person. The rumors from my roommate about a turkey leg so big it could feed three people, along with the rich smoky aroma in the air, drew me to the concession stands. Each bite of the leg filled me with hope even after every bad play and opposition touchdown. Down to the bone, the crowd was silent, the stadium left bare, emptied of energy and hope. (90)
Figure 02. Worn gym shoes photographed during my walk. (Original Photo, Tasnim Sheikh)
Strolling near Owens court, looking down from my ten minute walk, I see my gym shoes. Hand me downs from my dad, they were worn through years, each scuff mark telling a story. Bending the sole when doing calf extensions at the gym, rolling my ankle from slipping during basketball games with friends, or even just taking walks such as this one. Giving a measurement for how many miles were walked is hard, but the feel of the shoes and the visible wear gives proof of the effort they gave. (90)
D is for Desk To Fridge
Prompt 2.12 Indoor Walk; Sketch and text; Oct 3rd
Sketch 01. Poor sketch of the 25 step walk from my desk to the fridge, showing interesting features of the walk (Original Drawing, Tasnim Sheikh)
Duration of 25 steps, a perfect square that takes me from desk to fridge. The carpeted floor of my room to the hallway, heading down the stairs, the 3rd step always having the same loud creak I have grown used to. I reach the bottom, now switching to cool wood floors, making a sharp right. I go into the kitchen, ready to battle any cave crickets that could get in my way. I see my reflection passing the microwave, the hum of the fridge enchanting me, I open the door. (90)
R is for Real Football
Prompt 2.08 Sporting Event (2); Photograph and text; Sep 14th
Figure 03. 40 minutes left in the first of the Virginia Tech vs Boston College game, the score still 0 – 0. (Original Photo, Tasnim Sheikh)
Ready to forget the horrific loss to ODU the hokie football team experienced the day before, I decided to attend the hokie soccer game against Boston College. Most of the world considers this sport as the “real football”, and after the game I attended yesterday, I was ready to do the same. Going from the gym to Thompson field, I remember looking at the housing buildings, remembering moments from when I used to live in the dorms, reminiscing about my first year. I was expecting an empty crowd with soccer not being as popular, but was surprised to see the benches were packed with hokies ready to cheer on their team. Although this was probably due to the free entrance, walking through the wave of students, hopeful to see a win after such a bad loss, filled me with anticipation. The buttery smell of popcorn filled the air as I found a seat, the chanting and stomping surrounding me with each close opportunity to a goal. The match ended 0-1, another loss, but a much closer fight gave me hope. (180)
G is for Grubhub
Prompt 2.16 Waiting in Line; Sketch and text; Oct 7th
Sketch 02. Sketch of Line at Franks in Owens Hall, showing students waiting for food while one paces around (Original Drawing, Tasnim Sheikh)
Grumbling stomachs surrounded me as I waited for my GrubHub order to be ready, a sub from Franks at Owens Hall. I noticed one student frantically pacing back and forth, looking for his food, whispering “dang it!” to himself as he could not find it. His frustration created a funny contrast with the others patiently waiting, scrolling their phones or speaking to people near them. Although the walk of the line was short, the slow rhythm of it, each second standing still, felt like ages went by, hunger consuming me. (90)
P is for Preferred Path
Prompt 2.17 Desired Path; Video and text; Oct 16th
Video 01. Video of the route of my house to the bus stop, showing the man made concrete path and the other straight path with worn out grass(Original Video, Tasnim Sheikh)
People can choose their own path in life, both figuratively and literally. On the way from my house to the bus stop, there are pathways of concrete paved from one side to another, but the worn slices of grass cutting across the field reveal people taking their own preferred path, choosing what to do themselves. I walk it often, choosing a straight line of speed instead of keeping my shoes clean. This desired path shows my want of practicality, choosing what’s best for me rather than what was picked out. (90)
L is for Little Lake
Prompt 2.18 A Wish For Something Different; Sketch and text; Oct 20th
Sketch 03. Sketch of Stairway used during walk from dorm to classes, after rainfall, leaving behind a murky puddle, in pov form (Original Drawing, Tasnim Sheikh)
Last year, going to and from my dorm to classes, I always took the same path, going down a stairway. Every time after it rained, the bottom would be left with a puddle of murky water, blocking off the whole path. I went to check it this year after some heavy rainfall the day before, and was saddened to see the same situation as last year, a little lake over the path. This path is used by many students and could be easily fixed, with a little well deserved effort. (90)
N is for Nice View
Prompt 2.22 Stairs vs Elevator; Video and text; Oct 22th
Video 02. Video of Pamplin hall elevator going up (Original Video, Tasnim Sheikh)
Nowadays, I have long breaks between classes and often visit Pamplin Hall, finding a place to sit and do work. I usually walk the spiral staircase in the center, its open design letting me overlook the place as I climb. This time I took the elevator, a pure glass window giving me a nice view as I rose up. It was different than the stairs, the gliding motion letting me see people slowly shrink below, a much slower and calmer rhythm. Stairs give speed, while the elevator gives nice views. (90)
I is for Important Items
Prompt 2.23 The Things You Carry; Photo and text; Oct 30th
Figure 04. Important items taken out of my backpack, ordered in not only from size but also from how much I would hate to lose them. The ranking goes from top to bottom, those being my laptop, Ipad, and notebook (Original Photo, Tasnim Sheikh)
I carry things based on where I am in life, and I am currently a student. I ranked these items based on what I would hate to lose the most. My laptop is a core part of me as a student, especially one in CS, losing it would make it hard for me to get anything done. My Ipad is where I take notes, not needing to drag around heavy books makes it very helpful. The small green notebook is where I write thoughts and ideas, giving my brain release. (90)
H is for Horrible Walk
Prompt 2.21 Blacksburg’s Best Walk (Alternative version); Sketch and text; Oct 31st
Sketch 04. Sketch of me walking to the bus stop after taking my physics test in Classroom building, thinking about how my grade will drop, while people are dressed up celebrating Halloween. (Original Drawing, Tasnim Sheikh)
Halloween night, and the scariest thing I saw was the physics test I took. The walk from the testing area to the bus stop was horrible, not from physical conditions like the cold air or the dark surroundings, but more because of the mental strain of the test and thinking back to how bad I performed on it. Seeing everyone dressed up having fun, was a stark contrast to myself and many others who walked out of the test, not being able to join in the celebration of Halloween spirits. (90)
C is for Campus Map
Prompt 2.01 Campus Map of the Imagination; Sketch and text; Nov 24th
Sketch 06. Sketch of what I remember from the campus map based on the places I visit the most on campus. (Original Drawing, Tasnim Sheikh)
Considering how to draw this map, I had a lot of trouble figuring out where to begin. I focused on the Drillfield, it being the center, but while sketching I realized most of the places I remember were no where near. I could only give a general sense of buildings I visited the most, realizing my walks were my body moving on its own, not me remembering where to go. Going on my walk, I realized how small my mental version of campus is, forgetting to sketch the bus loop. (90)
O is for Overhead Skies
Prompt 2.03 Overhead at Time of Day; Photo and text; Oct 11th
Figure 05. Picture of a gradient colored sky taking during a walk. (Original Photo, Tasnim Sheikh)
Overhead I stopped to stare during my walk, seeing an endless sky. The thin clouds create a gradient from blue to the gray, almost looking like a fog covering what was above me. The distance was impossible to measure, although feeling close, looking at it deeply revealed how out of reach it was. The sky looked calm and clear, but there was a sense of slight movements, the fog slowly clearing away revealing more of the blue. It was slowly changing, the eye not being able to catch its transformation. (90)
W is for Waterfall
Prompt 2.09 Hahn Horticulture Garden; Sketch and text; Nov 13th
Sketch 06. Sketch of Paniculata hydrangeas flowers that I saw at the Hahn Horticulture Garden, which gave out a fragrant sweet smell and surrounded me as I stood by the pond. (Original Drawing, Tasnim Sheikh)
Water from the small waterfall splashes into the pond, a calming noise I enjoy most while deep in the Hahn Garden. The fragrant smell of the hydrangea that fill my nose while I stare at my reflection on the ponds surface let me feel in my own world, allowing nature to overtake me. The less appealing entrance that seemed like a basic building was forgotten when it transitioned into the garden. This garden is important to Tech because it allows students to have a place to connect to nature, resetting. (90)
U is for Unknown Building
2.07 What Even Goes On In There?; Photo and text; Nov 6th
Figure 06. The entrance to the Liberal Arts and Human Science Building. (Original Photo, Tasnim Sheikh)
Under the arch, passed the stairs, the sign on the door reads “LIBERAL ARTS and HUMAN SCIENCES BUILDING.” It had a more homey than professional design, and walking in I was greeted by a comforting aura, not common in the other academic buildings. The warm lighting was enough to put me at ease and the staircase tucked into the side spiraling up reminded me of my own home. I heard a lady behind a wall, seemingly taking on a phone answering questions. This building lets liberal arts students socialize together. (90)
A is for American Beech
2.10 Favorite Tree, A Note of Appreciation; Photo and text; Sep 30th
Figure 07. On the Drillfield, closer to the academic side, the American Beech tree sits by itself. Virginia Tech’s campus tree inventory lists the tree to have a radius of 14ft with a height of 26ft. (Original Photo, Tasnim Sheikh)
After a long day of classes, or a tiring session at the gym, rainfall or strong harsh sunlight is the last thing I want to experience. Dragging myself across the Drillfield, I saw you, an isolated place to hide myself from the sky and take a break. Your strong stature gave me comfort, feeling your presence while walking across the Drillfield. I knew if I ever needed shade from the sun or blockade from what else may fall out of the sky, I could rely on you.
With appreciation,
Tasnim. (90)
B is for Basketball
Prompt 2.18 A Wish For Something Different (2); Sketch and text; Sep 7th
Figure 08. While walking around my new neighborhood, I saw a basketball court, with no actual hoops attached. (Original Photo, Tasnim Sheikh)
Basketball has been an obsession of mine. While walking around my new neighborhood in Blacksburg, I was surprised to see a clearing of asphalt on the ground, happy to have a near by court to play and practice. Then I looked up and noticed, there were no actual hoops. It felt strange seeing this, like giving people a part of something but leaving out the most important part, almost giving a false sense of hope. Adding hoops is all it takes to turn into an actual court people could use. (90)
M is for Missing
Prompt 2.05 A Good Bench; Photo and text; Nov 14th
Figure 09. Walking around my neighborhood to look for my roommates missing headphones, I found a bench to take a break, only to find the headphones sitting at the bench. (Original Photo, Tasnim Sheikh)
Maybe I only noticed the bench from tiredness of walking around my neighborhood searching from my roommates missing headphones. I sat down for a second, more out of frustration than a break, then I saw them. Sitting on the bench next to me as if they were waiting for my arrival were the headphones. Sitting changed the whole walk, changing stress to relief. A good bench is not just something of comfort, the timing and purpose is important to. It leaves behind a story, one that comes when most unexpected. (90)
E is for Exit
2.32 Shortest Walk; Sketch and text; Nov 10th
Sketch 07. Sketch of me getting out of bed Monday morning, still tired with the sunlight hitting me as I drag myself to my bedroom door, my “shortest walk” of the day. (Original Drawing, Tasnim Sheikh)
Eight in the morning. Alarm jolts me up. Struggle to leave covers. Finally out of bed. Feet touch the ground. Up now I stand. Room feels slightly cold. I stretch my arms. Blink away sleep lingering. Morning light hits me. Hair sits half awake. I check the time. Class soon to come. I must get ready. I hate Mondays. Morning classes to attend. Drag myself across room. A short walk needed. To the bedroom door. I stand, doorknob ready. The hallway close. I turn the knob. The room I exit. (90)
F is for Future Hokie
2.34 Directions for a First-year Student; Video and text; Nov 26th
Video 03. Video of ducks at the Duck Pond at Virginia Tech. (Original Video, Tasnim Sheikh)
Future Hokie,
Being a second year student, I can say the transition from high school to college can be rough. The first semester will feel overwhelming at times, but you’ll find your place quickly. One place you will have to visit is the Duck Pond. It’s peaceful and easy to find, letting you escape from campus. Let yourself get lost in its nature. Explore the campus and meet other people, you can make lifelong relationships from any random encounter. Make sure you enjoy your time, you’ll do great at tech. (90)
X is for Xenacious
2.35 Go For A Hike; Photo and text; Nov 22nd
Figure 10. An odd tree formation I came across around 2 miles into the Chestnut Ridge Trail. (Original Photo, Tasnim Sheikh)
Xenacious means to have an eagerness to experience new things, according to Google. That is how I felt when standing at the trailhead of the Chestnut Ridge trail. I’ve explored woods before, but have never gone on a full fledge hike on a mountain range, and I was excited that the Blue Ridge was my first. I followed the trail going deeper into the mountains, enjoying the journey and formations of nature. The soreness of my feet and burning of my legs were silenced from the quietness of the mountains. (90)
K is for Kinetic
2.33 Campus Reimagined; Sketch and text; Nov 28th
Sketch 08. Sketch of the futuristic Drillfield, turning the kinetic energy from walking on the path into electricity for buildings, showing how walking energizes the community. (Original Drawing, Tasnim Sheikh)
Kinetic energy is a concept I studied deeply in Physics this year. I believe a sustainable future campus would be one where walking is what actually powers everything. Like how a hamster wheel can generate electricity when moved, some sort of kinetic tiles could be placed on the campus paths so whenever students walk on them, the kinetic energy can be turned into electricity, powering the entire campus. The Drillfield would become essentially become a powerplant with people many people walking back and forth on it multiple times a day. (90)
V is for Vertical Walkways
2.33 Campus Reimagined (2); Sketch and text; Nov 28th
Sketch 09. Sketch of the “Vertical Walkways”, connecting Perry’s Place (Hitt Hall) to the New Classroom Building, the outside being less crowded while the inside pathway allowing easy access and an overlooking view. (Original Drawing, Tasnim Sheikh)
Virginia Tech has many buildings close together. I feel having a elevated path directly connecting some buildings is a future campus that is not too unrealistic to think of. The main walking routes would still be available, but having a quick path inside the buildings could be helpful, creating less crowded areas outdoors, opening up campus. The library and Torgerson already has something like this, and I am thinking of a similar concept. A more open walkway with windows that allow for people to look outdoors while walking through buildings. (90)
Y is for Yearning
3.14 Star Gazing; Photo and text; Nov 28th
Figure 11. The starlit sky taken on a walk through my neighborhood at night a little after dusk, taken using my handheld Sony Camera. (Original Photo, Tasnim Sheikh)
Yearning for a new experience, I went for a walk when dusk hit. Walking at night feels different, calm and quiet, having its own type of beauty to it. Looking up made everything else disappear, the stars illuminating the sky as I slowed my pace, counting each individual light. The darkness on the path was more soft and comforting, pausing mid path to keep looking at the sky. The more I concentrated on the stars, the less I thought of my surroundings. They seemed to stretch endlessly through the sky. (90)
Q is for Quiet Entry
2.07 What Even Goes On In There? (2); Photo and text; Oct 28th
Figure 12. After a cs lecture in Torgerson, exploring led to to an empty room that seemed to be a CS lab room. It was filled with High end gaming computers and it seemed very advanced classes were done here. (Original Photo, Tasnim Sheikh)
Quietly exploring Torgerson after having a class there, I looked through the window of a door and saw an empty room that caught my interest. Quickly but silently walking in, glowing RGB lights was all that lit up the room before I flipped the switched to turn the light on. Rows of high end PC’s were sitting at the desks, lined up waiting to be used. I wondered who would need this much power for classwork. It felt more like a room for Esports players than people looking to work. (90)
J is for Journey
3.27 Epic Walking Story; Sketch and text; Nov 8th
Sketch 10. Sketch of the end of my “Journey” after jogging through campus. I sat near the campfire next to Dietrick hall with the fire keeping me warm and the stars lighting up the sky. (Original Drawing, Tasnim Sheikh)
Jogging around campus, I imagined myself on a journey. The cement path of the Drillfield became a road guiding me, the small street laps lighting the path to complete my quest. My backpack was heavy, but necessary, like armor protecting me from the unknown. I passed by others, each with their own journey to find knowledge or other treasures. The wind pushed my back, urging me to go on. The firepits near Dietrick hall was my final destination, allowing me catch my breath from the days troubles, my journey ending. (90)
Z is for Zealous
Prompt 2.21 Blacksburg’s Best Walk (Second iteration (2)) ; Photo and text; Nov 18th
Figure 13. Night time resting at the Lower South Recreation soccer field after a long session. (Original Photo, Tasnim Sheikh)
Zealous is how I feel when my friends ask to play soccer. I think the walk to the field is Blacksburg’s best walk. Stepping outside ready to go, knowing a match is waiting after we reach the field energizes me. Joking with my friends as we get closer makes the walk even more enjoyable, filling me with anticipation. The path is different depending on the weather, warm sunlight tiring me out or cold wind pushing me faster, but every time we reach the field its the same, I feel alive. (90)
