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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

All content by Leila Abarca
Zia Lawrence in “Oversized Suits.” (Courtesy of Page 8 Pictures)

Q&A: MFA Tisch alum on touring Shakespeare across NYC

Zia Lawrence spoke to WSN about stepping into a production of “As You Like It” focused on accessibility and community through The Public Theater’s Mobile Unit.
Leila Abarca, Staff Writer May 6, 2026

This summer, Zia Lawrence (MFA Tisch ’23) will perform Shakespeare’s “As You Like It” wherever New Yorkers can find it — in local parks, correctional facilities and pedestrian...

(Katie Peurrung for WSN)

Off Topic: Stop blaming Gen Z for social media addiction

The generation has grown up as a trial run for the addictive designs of social media. Now, courts might be finally catching up.
Leila Abarca, Staff Writer April 6, 2026

On Wednesday, March 25, a Los Angeles jury found Meta and Google responsible for harming young users through their addictive design features, ultimately leading to mental health...

Students participate in a walk out during the 2025 commencement ceremony at Yankee Stadium. (Krish Dev for WSN)

Opinion: If students aren’t involved, NYU’s policies must change

NYU’s administrators broke university bylaws by stripping students of their representation in university matters.
Leila Abarca, Staff Writer March 12, 2026

Commencement ceremonies, one of the most symbolic moments of the university experience, are organized by students and for students to be as memorable and special as possible. The...

(Courtesy of amanderson2)

Off Topic: Greenland is not for sale, but that won’t stop Trump

President Donald Trump’s obsession with Greenland is the latest example of his transactional political instinct.
Leila Abarca, Staff Writer January 29, 2026

It didn’t take very long into the new year for President Donald Trump to abandon all pretenses, making it clear that he sees U.S. alliances as transactional relationships and...

(Julianna Lindo for WSN)

Off Topic: Sports can’t stay fair when betting drives the game

The recent NBA gambling scandal is just the latest example of how sports betting is negatively impacting the game for players and fans.
Leila Abarca, Contributing Writer November 10, 2025

On Oct. 23, Miami Heat guard Terry Rozier and Portland Trailblazers head coach Chauncey Billups were arrested as part of a large-scale gambling investigation tied to insider sports...

(Maryam Lootah for WSN)

Off Topic: AI should not be used to exploit loneliness

Friend’s advertising campaign across New York City subway stations represents the dangerous reality of artificial intelligence.
Leila Abarca, Contributing Writer October 15, 2025

Content Warning: This article contains mention of suicide. Recently, a series of ominous advertisements characterized by futuristic-looking white pendants for an artificial...