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New York University's independent student newspaper, established in 1973.

Washington Square News

New York University's independent student newspaper, established in 1973.

Washington Square News

New York University's independent student newspaper, established in 1973.

Washington Square News

Jake Capriotti

Jake Capriotti, Photo Editor

Jake is a senior at Tisch studying film and television and has been with WSN since Spring 2020. He is an Arizona native and that is his one personality trait. Outside of WSN, Jake specializes in portraiture, performance and unit stills photography as well as being the official photographer for the NYC OffBrnd Dance Team. You can find him on Instagram @capriotti.jake and maybe he’ll DM you some memes.

All content by Jake Capriotti
NYU Law is located at 40 Washington Square South. Linda Lacewell, an adjunct professor of the school,  is one of Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s top aides accused of changing a state report to conceal the number of nursing home residents who died during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic in New York City (Staff Photo by Jake Capriotti)

Photo: NYU professor linked to Cuomo’s cover-up of nursing home deaths

March 24, 2021

NYU Law is located at 40 Washington Square South. Linda Lacewell, an adjunct professor of the school, is one of Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s top aides accused of changing a state report...

NYU administration announced the cancellation of the 2021 spring break to mitigate the spread of COVID-19. Many students are expressing their concerns about the lack of a substantial break given during the spring semester. (Staff Illustration by Manasa Gudavalli and Alexandra Chan)

As spring approaches, break doesn’t

Students believe replacing spring break with two long weekends is detrimental to their mental health. Administrators remain confident in their plans.
Alex Tey, Copy Chief March 16, 2021

An Oct. 20 message from President Andrew Hamilton and Provost Katherine Fleming announced the cancellation of 2021’s spring break plans to mitigate the spread of COVID-19. In...

COVID policy signs are taped on the door of  Brooklyn dorm Othmer Hall’s lounge. NYU dorm lounges are reopening across campus and many are worried about the increased risk of COVID-19 spread. (Staff Photo by Jake Capriotti)

Photo: Students share mixed feelings about reopening the university

March 12, 2021

COVID policy signs are taped on the door of Brooklyn dorm Othmer Hall’s lounge. NYU dorm lounges are reopening across campus and many are worried about the increased risk of...

The Metropolitan Museum of Art used to be one of the many New York City museums where NYU students could patronise for free or a reduced price. The Museum Gateway program is now closed, during the same semester when tuition has gone up. (Staff Photo by Jake Capriotti)

Photo: Museum Gateway program is suspended for the semester

March 12, 2021

The Metropolitan Museum of Art used to be one of the many New York City museums where NYU students could patronise for free or a reduced price. The Museum Gateway program is now...

Saskia's elegant yet simple storefront invites visitors to see what handmade goods are available on Sept. 18, 2020. (Staff photo by Jake Capriotti)

Photo: Local and Black-Owned Businesses

Under the Arch Staff September 28, 2020

Saskia's elegant yet simple storefront invites visitors to see what handmade goods are available on Sept. 18, 2020. (Staff photo by Jake Capriotti)

An illustration of a megaphone with a red handle. Written in orange on the megaphone are the words “Staff Rants.”

Staff Rants and Raves: The Emmys

From Bad Bunny to COVID-19 precautions, our staff has a lot of thoughts on the Emmys.

Rants  On the “Friends” Reunion Helen Wajda, Opinion Editor I never watch the Emmys and this year was no exception, but that didn’t stop me from having to see some...

A protester holds up a sign reading "Black Women's Lives Matter" at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn. People protested all over New York City after a grand jury decided not to charge Louisville cops for the murder of Breonna Taylor. (Staff Photo by Jake Capriotti)

Photo: Protests Demanding Justice For Breonna Taylor Sweep New York City

Matthew Fischetti and Rachel Cohen September 24, 2020

Protesters hold up signs calling for justice for Breonna Taylor and to abolish the police. Many across the country are calling to abolish the crime and punishment system currently...

If NYU Can Punish Violaters of COVID-19 Policies, Why Not Sexual Assault Perpetrators?

If NYU Can Punish Violaters of COVID-19 Policies, Why Not Sexual Assault Perpetrators?

NYU’s recent suspension of students demonstrates its power to hold students accountable for their actions. This level of accountability must set the precedent for cases of sexual assault in order to create a true zero-tolerance policy, instead of upholding an illusory idea of campus safety.
Nicole Chiarella, Copy Chief September 17, 2020

Note: This article contains mentions of sexual assault which may be triggering to some readers. Please proceed with caution. On Sept. 6, NYU made national headlines after suspending...

New Yorkers and NYU students take the subway for their commutes every day. The MTA released a new policy to fine patrons $50 if they do not wear a mask. (Staff Photo by Jake Capriotti)

Photo: Going Maskless on MTA Transit Now Costs $50

September 16, 2020

New Yorkers and NYU students take the subway for their commutes every day. The MTA released a new policy to fine patrons $50 if they do not wear a mask. (Staff Photo by Jake Capriotti)

NYU Welcome 2020 signs deck the stairs at NYU's Kimmel Center for University Life during Welcome Week. Although all Welcome Week events have been virtual, Welcome Week leaders found ways to modify the traditional in-person events into a virtual experience for students. (Staff Photo by Jake Capriotti)

Photo: How the NYU Welcome Team Went Virtual

September 13, 2020

NYU Welcome 2020 signs deck the stairs at NYU's Kimmel Center for University Life during Welcome Week. Although all Welcome Week events have been virtual, Welcome Week leaders...

An illustration of a megaphone with a red handle. Written in orange on the megaphone are the words “Staff Rants.”

Staff Rants: Back To School

From the big workload to Zoom complaints, our staff has a lot of feelings about the first week of classes.

On the Lack of Anonymity  Alexandria Johnson, Deputy Managing Editor  Maybe it's just me, but why do I need to put my camera on for every class? I'm in my senior year juggling...

Steinhardt School of Culture, Education and Human Development is located at 82 Washington Square East. In a school-wide email, the school's Dean Jack H. Knott announced the creation of the Office of Equity, Belonging, and Community Action at Steinhardt, which will be led by Vice Dean E. Kirkland. (Staff Photo by Jake Capriotti)

Photo: Steinhardt Dean Reveals Creation of Office of Equity, Belonging and Community Action

September 8, 2020

Steinhardt School of Culture, Education and Human Development is located at 82 Washington Square East. In a school-wide email, the school's Dean Jack H. Knott announced the creation...

For years, Washington Square Park has acted as a hub for social gatherings. In light of social distancing precautions, the midnight "rave" earlier last weekend raised multiple concerns on students ignoring guidelines. (Staff Photo by Jake Capriotti)

Photo: Rave at Washington Square Park Sparks Outrage and Confusion at NYU

September 7, 2020

For years, Washington Square Park has acted as a hub for social gatherings. In light of social distancing precautions, the midnight "rave" earlier last weekend raised multiple...

An illustration of a megaphone with a red handle. Written in orange on the megaphone are the words “Staff Rants.”

Staff Rants: Coronavirus

From the loss of indoor seating to general annoyance, our staff has a lot to say about the coronavirus.

On The Loss of Public Seating  Helen Wajda, Opinion Editor One thing living through a pandemic has taught me is that I rely entirely too much on public seating to get me...

Transfers’ Journal

Transfers’ Journal

A collection of short narratives that give an insight into the lives of transfer students, discussing the concepts of transferring from another university or another school within NYU, where it is often difficult to situate in.

Journal Entry #1 By Ashley Wu Admitting that I was lonely felt like defeat. When I transferred to NYU in the fall of my sophomore year, I ignored all the warnings from my friends...

Staff Rants and Raves: The Last of the Semester

Staff Rants and Raves: The Last of the Semester

Here's our staff’s random thoughts before we finish the end of the semester.

Rants On Apartment Heating Abby Hofstetter, Managing Editor Contrary to popular belief, I’m generally an agreeable person. I don’t really complain when things aren’t...

Teachers Deserve Better Pay in Crisis

Teachers Deserve Better Pay in Crisis

The chaos of transitioning to online learning calls for state and federal governments to reevaluate — and subsequently raise — teachers’ salaries.
Nicole Chiarella, Deputy Copy Chief May 3, 2020

Since the onslaught of the coronavirus pandemic, many schools across the United States have responded by closing their doors for the remainder of the academic year. As a result,...

Many universities have placed their campuses in NYC. College students from NYC schools recently spoke with local and state officials about various issues they currently face. (Staff Photo by Jake Capriotti)

Photo: Elected Officials Address NYC College Students’ Pandemic Concerns

May 4, 2020

Many universities have placed their campuses in NYC. College students from NYC schools recently spoke with local and state officials about various issues they currently face. (Staff...

Staff Rants: Books

Staff Rants: Books

From John Green to “Little House on the Prairie” — here’s our staff’s takes on books.

On John Green Jake Capriotti, Photo Editor Why is it that between late 2013 and mid-2015 it seemed the internet had a collective crush on John Green? I will admit that I...

A student prepares for another week of online classes. As Zoom has become the new platform for online classes, students continue to struggle with the lack of a classroom environment. (Staff Photo by Jake Capriotti)

Photo: Online Classes Find Difficulties in Engagement

April 26, 2020

A student prepares for another week of online classes. As Zoom has become the new platform for online classes, students continue to struggle with the lack of a classroom environment....

The Tonight Show starring Jimmy Fallon is a highly sought after internship by NYU students. The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic is reshaping the way students are looking for summer internships. (Staff Photo by Jake Capriotti)

Photo: The Uncertain Future of Summer Internships

April 26, 2020

The Tonight Show starring Jimmy Fallon is a highly sought after internship by NYU students. The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic is reshaping the way students are looking for summer internships....

Staff Rants: Drinks

Staff Rants: Drinks

From milk to kombucha — here’s our staff’s hot takes on drinks.

On Black Coffee Helen Wajda, Deputy Opinion Editor I love coffee as much as the next person, but I will never understand how anyone can drink it black. Maybe I’m drinking...

"The Moscow Rules" is a 2019 novel about the Cold War written by Antonio and Jonna Mendez, two of the most decorated CIA officers. Through their command of language and compelling narratives, Jonna and Tony Mendez capture the innovation of CIA operations that occurred at the core of America’s adversary. (Staff Photo by Nicole Chiarella)

‘The Moscow Rules’: A Subtle and Declassified Account of the CIA

Written by two decorated CIA officers, “The Moscow Rules” provides insight into the tactics carried out by the CIA during the Cold War.
Nicole Chiarella, Deputy Copy Chief April 21, 2020

Editor’s Note: The facts presented in “The Moscow Rules” were not independently verified by WSN. The following is a review of the book as it is presented. In the chaos...

Melissa Chiarella wears an old T-shirt that she repurposed into a face mask. As the scarcity of PPE persists, this quick craft could be a helpful addition to your list of quarantine activities. (Photo by Melissa Chiarella)

How to Make Face Masks Out of T-Shirts

To combat the national shortage of face masks, people got creative with making their own gear. After just a few steps, you’ll learn how to make a face mask from a t-shirt.
Nicole Chiarella, Deputy Copy Chief April 16, 2020

Before the COVID-19 pandemic, face masks carried a different meaning: when someone suggested making one, it was typically from dark chocolate or honey, not a t-shirt. However,...

Staff Rants and Raves: Movies

Staff Rants and Raves: Movies

From Lizzie McGuire to Lady Bird — here’s what our staff thinks about movies.

Rants On Issues With “Blue Is The Warmest Color” Anna-Dmitry Muratova, Deputy Managing Editor When I was younger, closeted and in total denial about my own queerness,...

Washington Square Park is a centerpiece of on campus student life. Students have begun to worry about the possibility of a virtual fall semester and not returning to campus. (Staff Photo by Jake Capriotti)

Photo: Students Concerned Over Possibility of a Remote Fall Semester

April 15, 2020

Washington Square Park is a centerpiece of on campus student life. Students have begun to worry about the possibility of a virtual fall semester and not returning to campus. (Staff...

Its title can be deceiving. 5 Seconds of Summer dropped their latest studio album last Friday. (Staff Illustration by Jake Capriotti)

Photo: 5 Seconds of Summer’s “CALM” Is Anything But

April 1, 2020

Its title can be deceiving. 5 Seconds of Summer dropped their latest studio album last Friday. (Staff Illustration by Jake Capriotti)

On Sunday, New York State Governor Andrew Cuomo extended New York State On PAUSE, a policy mandating non-essential workers remain at home until at least April 15. Small business owners wonder about the future of their livelihoods and many are concerned about the strain on their income. (Staff Photo by Jake Capriotti)

Photo: New Yorkers Reflect on the PAUSE

March 29, 2020

On Sunday, New York State Governor Andrew Cuomo extended New York State On PAUSE, a policy mandating non-essential workers remain at home until at least April 15. Small business...

During the COVID-19 pandemic, many institutions including NYU, have turned to Zoom, the video conferencing platform for the transition to online learning. Zoom’s suspicious privacy policies have come under scrutiny. (Staff Photo by Jake Capriotti)

Photo: Zoom Updates Privacy Policy After Criticism

April 2, 2020

During the COVID-19 pandemic, many institutions including NYU, have turned to Zoom, the video conferencing platform for the transition to online learning. Zoom’s suspicious privacy...

Staff Rants and Raves: Self-Quarantine

Staff Rants and Raves: Self-Quarantine

Here’s our staff’s struggles and joys while in isolation.

Rants On Parents Jake Capriotti, Photo Editor Being home in Arizona under quarantine has me worried. Not only am I not allowed to leave the house because of quarantine,...

A student packs up their belongings in Clark Hall, a residence hall in Brooklyn Heights. NYU dorm halls are reportedly to be used to remedy hospital bed shortages. (Staff Photo by Jake Capriotti)

Photo: NYU Dorms May House Coronavirus Patients

March 18, 2020

A student packs up their belongings in Clark Hall, a residence hall in Brooklyn Heights. NYU dorm halls are reportedly to be used to remedy hospital bed shortages. (Staff Photo...

Staff Rants: Online Classes

Staff Rants: Online Classes

NYU students have been taking classes online since Wednesday, March 11. Hear our staff’s experiences on the situation.

On Arriving Early Helen Wajda, Deputy Opinion Editor I’ve never been more uncomfortable than the five minutes before class started where it was just me, my professor and...

The NYC skyline is one of the many recognizable icons of the city. Mayor Bill de Blasio stated today that NYC will not go under quarantine in response to rumors floating around amidst increasing COVID-19 cases in the city. (Staff Photo by Jake Capriotti)

Photo: Despite Rumors, New York City Will Not Be Quarantined

March 12, 2020

The NYC skyline is one of the many recognizable icons of the city. Mayor Bill de Blasio stated today that NYC will not go under quarantine in response to rumors floating around...

The Richard Rodgers Theater on Broadway hosts the award-winning musical Hamilton created by Lin-Manuel Miranda. Since a Broadway usher has reported testing positive for COVID-19, Broadway is now shutting down.(Staff Photo by Jake Capriotti)

Photo: Coronavirus Closes the Curtains on Broadway

March 12, 2020

The Richard Rodgers Theater on Broadway hosts the award-winning musical Hamilton created by Lin-Manuel Miranda. Since a Broadway usher has reported testing positive for COVID-19,...

Gallatin senior Lily Hitelman and CAS junior Alexandra Daley are co-captains of the NYU equestrian team. The team had four riders qualify for their regionals. (Staff Photo by Jake Capriotti)

Photo: Yes, NYU Has an Equestrian Team

March 8, 2020

Gallatin senior Lily Hitelman and CAS junior Alexandra Daley are co-captains of the NYU equestrian team. The team had four riders qualify for their regionals. (Staff Photo by Jake...

Student loan applications are a common experience faced by many university students worrying about tuition costs.  A recent report comparing NYU, Howard University, and New Mexico State has shown that students attending predominantly black or hispanic-serving institutions face higher costs from private companies determining creditworthiness. (Staff Photo by Jake Capriotti)

Photo: Report Reveals Discriminatory Practices on Students’ Loans

March 2, 2020

Student loan applications are a common experience faced by many university students worrying about tuition costs. A recent report comparing NYU, Howard University, and New Mexico...

Tisch sophomore Christian Corpening gives tarot card readings for other students. He was introduced to the practice last year in Washington Square Park. (Staff Photo by Jake Capriotti)

Photo: Student Tarot Card Readers Unveil Their Supernatural Beliefs

March 2, 2020

Tisch sophomore Christian Corpening gives tarot card readings for other students. He was introduced to the practice last year in Washington Square Park. (Staff Photo by Jake Capriotti)

The Fried Chicken Sandwich and Phat See Eiw are both served by Uncle Boons. This new Asian-fusion restaurant is located in Little Italy. (Photo by Ria Mittal)

Photo: Doesn’t Get Finer Than Thai Diner

March 2, 2020

The Fried Chicken Sandwich and Phat See Eiw are both served by Uncle Boons. This new Asian-fusion restaurant is located in Little Italy. (Photo by Ria Mittal)

Tandon senior Riley Demps dribbles the ball, looking for a chance to pass during practice. The men's basketball team ended a tough but rewarding season. (Staff Photo by Jake Capriotti)

Photo: NYU Men’s Basketball's Disappointing End

March 2, 2020

Tandon senior Riley Demps dribbles the ball, looking for a chance to pass during practice. The men's basketball team ended a tough but rewarding season. (Staff Photo by Jake Capriotti)

A distinct sign labels a Tandon building. Tandon was recently awarded for advancing women's participation in computer science industries. (Via NYU Tandon)

Photo: Tandon Receives Award for Increasing Women’s Role in Computing Fields

February 28, 2020

A distinct sign labels a Tandon building. Tandon was recently awarded for advancing women's participation in computer science industries. (Via NYU Tandon)

The famous Washington Square Park arch is a must-see sight on NYU’s no-wall campus. Not walking under it has also been the one tradition the university shares for years. (Staff photo by Jake Capriotti)

Photo: Walking Under the Arch: Fact or Fiction?

February 24, 2020

The famous Washington Square Park arch is a must-see sight on NYU’s no-wall campus. Not walking under it has also been the one tradition the university shares for years. (Staff...

Marriage is a central theme in the Canadian singer’s newest album. However, despite promising an epic project to fans, Bieber’s “Changes” falls short of expectations.
 (Staff Photo by Jake Capriotti)

Photo: Justin Bieber Reached His Apex, It’s Not ‘Changes’

February 24, 2020

Marriage is a central theme in the Canadian singer’s newest album. However, despite promising an epic project to fans, Bieber’s “Changes” falls short of expectations. ...

Staff Rants: TV Shows

Staff Rants: TV Shows

We’ve all binged a show, even though we know we shouldn’t. Here’s what our staff has to say about the Golden Age of TV — or so they say.

On Netflix-Induced Pain Jake Capriotti, Photo Editor As a young boy growing up in Arizona, I was not fond of many television shows. One show that I was emotionally invested...

Liberal Studies sophomore Victoria Abraham runs an Instagram page called @fat_fab_feminist. She aims to encourage the acceptance of all body types. (Staff Photo by Jake Capriotti)

Photo: Meet the LS Sophomore Calling For Fat Liberation

February 18, 2020

Liberal Studies sophomore Victoria Abraham runs an Instagram page called @fat_fab_feminist. She aims to encourage the acceptance of all body types. (Staff Photo by Jake Capriotti)

Now in their 30th year, Mercer St. Books & Records carries new and used books, as well as LPs. Local bookstores like this one are small businesses that are often overlooked in the city. (Staff Photo by Jake Capriotti)

Photo: Support Your OG Bookstores

February 18, 2020

Now in their 30th year, Mercer St. Books & Records carries new and used books, as well as LPs. Local bookstores like this one are small businesses that are often overlooked in...

Mokyo, an Asian-fusion restaurant, is located along St. Marks Place. Though its storefront may seem plain, the dishes Mokyo offers are anything but. (Staff Photo by Jake Capriotti)

Photo: Make Way for Mokyo: Asian-Fusion Tapas to Die For

February 18, 2020

Mokyo, an Asian-fusion restaurant, is located along St. Marks Place. Though its storefront may seem plain, the dishes Mokyo offers are anything but. (Staff Photo by Jake Capriotti)

The lights of the Apple Store illuminate 5th Avenue. The trillion-dollar company is being sued by an NYU Langone Cardiologist. (Staff Photo by Jake Capriotti)

Photo: NYU Cardiologist Sues Apple Over Patent Infringement

February 13, 2020

The lights of the Apple Store illuminate 5th Avenue. The trillion-dollar company is being sued by an NYU Langone Cardiologist. (Staff Photo by Jake Capriotti)

Staff Rants and Raves: Oscars

Staff Rants and Raves: Oscars

Sunday’s Oscars was a historic night for film. Here’s what our staff has to say about it.

Rants On Viewer’s Etiquette Jake Capriotti, Photo Editor I did not know what to expect from my first Oscars party at NYU. I attended the Third North viewing with two...

A student walks to school with a sinister plot against their teacher. The Dardenne brothers' film “Young Ahmed” was the recipient of the Best Director at the Cannes Film Festival. (Staff Photo by Jake Capriotti)

Photo: Extremism Burns Slowly in the Mind of ‘Young Ahmed’

February 10, 2020

A student walks to school with a sinister plot against their teacher. The Dardenne brothers' film “Young Ahmed” was the recipient of the Best Director at the Cannes Film Festival....

Protestors march down 5th Avenue in response to the State of the Union and the Senate Acquittal of President Trump. (Staff photo by Jake Capriotti)

Photo: Senate Acquittal of President Trump Spurs Protest

February 6, 2020

Protestors march down 5th Avenue in response to the State of the Union and the Senate Acquittal of President Trump. (Staff photo by Jake Capriotti)

The Emmy-nominated comedy aired its series finale on January 30. (Staff illustration by Jake Capriotti)

Photo: ‘The Good Place’ Walks Through the Final Door

February 3, 2020

The Emmy-nominated comedy aired its series finale on January 30. (Staff illustration by Jake Capriotti)

Staff Rants and Raves: Back to School

Staff Rants and Raves: Back to School

The first week of courses always fills people with mixed emotions. Here are our staff’s takes on the subject.

Rants On Masks Alexandra Chan, Deputy Photo Editor Growing up in post-SARS Hong Kong, wearing masks is very normal to me. It blows my mind that there is an American (or...

A Toast to Teachers

A Toast to Teachers

Though it’s easy to see what teachers have done for us, it’s quite difficult to see what we’ve done in return. It’s time to put teachers in the spotlight.
Nicole Chiarella, Contributing Writer October 17, 2019

Once upon a time, in the mystical land of Fair Pay, teachers were paid a livable wage. They didn’t have to work three jobs to afford their studio apartments. Buying school supplies...

Redefining Environmental Activism

Redefining Environmental Activism

Environmental activism uses a broad definition of environmentalism that foregrounds those with privilege. By narrowing down this definition and making it more inclusive, the 21st century environmental movement can finally globalize.
Nicole Chiarella, Contributing Writer October 14, 2019

Environmental activism is not unique to the 21st century. For hundreds of years, countless individuals have fought for a cleaner and healthier Earth. The late 1890s experienced...