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 Roksaneh Salartash
There is a couch with six people sitting on it. In the middle is a man and a woman, with a little girl sitting on the woman’s lap. Next to them there are three other kids in colorful clothing. Behind them there are five people standing and posing for the photograph.

Q&A: Tisch alum Maryam Keshavarz on the premiere of ‘The Persian Version’

Keshavarz discusses the importance of representation and her journey as an Iranian American filmmaker.
Roksaneh Salartash, Contributing Writer October 27, 2023

On Oct. 20, AMC Lincoln Square 13 was filled with students from NYU, Columbia and other universities across the city, all gathered for the premiere of “The Persian Version.”...

A woman in a black-and-white striped vest lying down with her head propped up by her hand.

Steinhardt sophomore Kayla Oh hangs onto her teenage dreams in New York City

The singer-songwriter spoke to WSN about releasing her debut single "See Through," available on Spotify and Youtube Music.
Roksaneh Salartash, Contributing Writer October 26, 2023

At just 19, Kayla Oh is establishing her sound and making a name for herself as a songwriter. Influenced by Joni Mitchell and Phoebe Bridgers, Oh’s storytelling is unapologetically...

The side of a store that has a sign which reads “DANNY ON THE CORNER HOT ZEPOLLES” followed by three exclamation points. To the right of it is a blue sign showing deep-fried Oreo cookies. There are people standing around the store.

The best of the fest: Italian classics at the Feast of San Gennaro

A guide to the top eats at Little Italy’s 97th Feast of San Gennaro.
Roksaneh Salartash, Staff Writer September 21, 2023

Every September, a slice of old-world charm is renewed in the heart of lower Manhattan. Vibrant red, white and green arches illuminate Mulberry Street for 11 blocks from Houston...

A hand holding a prosciutto sandwich, wrapped in paper.

All’Antico Vinaio: A taste of Florence in NYC

All’Antico Vinaio is known for paninis made with authentic ingredients straight from Italy. Check out the famous Florentine sandwich shop in Greenwich Village and Midtown.
Roksaneh Salartash, Staff Writer March 8, 2023

When my semester abroad at NYU Florence comes to an end, there are many things I’m going to miss about living in this beautiful place — the art on every corner, the lush green...

A woman wearing an orange dress sits in a sofa chair on stage in front of a gray backdrop with smudged square patterns on it.

Q&A: Marjan Neshat on ‘Sandra’ and her Iranian identity

The Iranian actress discusses preparing for the one-woman play, and channeling her heritage while performing.
Roksaneh Salartash, Staff Writer December 12, 2022

A spotlight illuminated the Union Square’s Vineyard Theatre stage, revealing only an actress and a single chair. Marjan Neshat is the star of “Sandra,” a one-woman thriller...

Multiple people stand under gray scaffolding. In the background, there is an entrance to a building with a sign that reads “The New York Times. A woman wearing a yellow shirt holds a sign that displays an image of a female with blood on her face. Under this image it reads “Hananeh Kia,” “23 years old,” and next to this, it reads in red font “Woman,” “Life,” “Freedom.” At the bottom of the poster in black font it reads: “Was shot and killed by security forces.”

Photo: Iranian students from NYU, Columbia refute New York Times reporting

December 8, 2022

Feature: Students protest against the Iranian government in front of The New York Times building located at 242 W. 41st St. (Roksaneh Salartash for WSN)

Multiple people stand under gray scaffolding. In the background, there is an entrance to a building with a sign that reads “The New York Times. A woman wearing a yellow shirt holds a sign that displays an image of a female with blood on her face. Under this image it reads “Hananeh Kia,” “23 years old,” and next to this, it reads in red font “Woman,” “Life,” “Freedom.” At the bottom of the poster in black font it reads: “Was shot and killed by security forces.”

Photo: Iranian students from NYU, Columbia refute New York Times reporting

Yezen Saadah, Deputy News Editor December 8, 2022

(Roksaneh Salartash for WSN)

The inside of a cafe with four people sitting at the bar counter. Above them is a chandelier with candle shaped light bulbs.

8 Iranian-owned businesses to support in NYC

Amid the women-led revolution in Iran, immerse yourself in Persian culture with this list of Iranian-owned restaurants, shops and services.
Roksaneh Salartash, Staff Writer November 16, 2022

You’ve seen Iran in the news, and are hopefully aware of the country’s current women-led revolution. However, if you are not familiar with our culture and traditions, look...

A crowd of protesters standing in Washington Square Park at night. In the center front is a woman dressed in black with her eyes closed and hand raised.

Keeping Iranian culture alive at NYU amid protests

Members of NYU’s Iranian community emphasize the importance of preserving their roots and speaking out against injustice.
Roksaneh Salartash, Contributing Writer October 24, 2022

Iran, a country in the Middle East with a rich history and vibrant culture, is defined by its welcoming people and love of the arts. We were raised through the poetry of Hafez...

Woman walks down the runway in a ruffled olive dress.

Deity New York showcases the Manhattan woman

Renee Bishop’s Deity New York SS23 collection captures the essence of New York City through fashion.
Roksaneh Salartash, Contributing Writer September 12, 2022

Hot pink lighting illuminated the lively Moonlight Studios runway as attendees waited in heavy anticipation for the Deity New York Spring/Summer 2023 collection. Suddenly,...

On top of a pink checkered picnic blanket is a white tote bag with black decorations and a gold scarf with pink stars. On top of the tote bag is a round pink music speaker.

Ring in spring with the perfect picnic

National Picnic Day is this Saturday. Our guide will help you curate that Instagram-worthy charcuterie board, or at least arrange your Sidestein snacks.
Roksaneh Salartash, Contributing Writer April 22, 2022

As the cherry blossoms bloom and the days grow longer, NYU students are flocking to Washington Square Park to enjoy the warmer weather. There’s nothing better than celebrating...