Dear readers, as you partake in this literary magazine, I urge you to read with an open mind and an open heart. This year’s magazine features a variety of pieces that range in their focus and gravitas. Essays, such as the wining piece, “Finding Faith in Childhood Fantasy” are light-hearted and funny, while others are serious and heartwarming. “Finding Faith in Childhood Fantasy” is a coming-of-age story written by Camryn Shope that beautifully encompasses the feelings of childhood. She does this through a series of recollections that make readers rethink events from their own childhoods. On the other hand, some stories are more abstract, but nonetheless powerful and gripping. Sally Choueka’s “Rohi” engrosses the reader with complex and descriptive language, making it feel as if the essay is alive. The weight of the message that “Rohi” carries stretches far beyond our borders in order to tell us a humbling tale of love and loss. As you read the magazine, I hope that you enjoy the vast number of experiences present in this genre and are enlightened by these and the many other meaningful essays found in this issue.

Elijah Hayes-Olivera is a sophomore in the Schreyer’s Honors College, currently majoring in Immunology. Even though science is his focus, he also loves writing short stories, poetry and reading (sci-fi is the best). He tends to integrate his knowledge of biology into his work, so it is both cryptic and knowledgeable. He won Best Poem in this issue, and he was also the Nonfiction Editor.