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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

Shanay Tolat

Shanay Tolat, Deputy Opinion Editor

Shanay is a first-year from Mumbai, India, studying business at Stern. In his free time you’ll probably find him binge-watching Modern Family, listening to Post Malone or Travis Scott or planning a trip to Six Flags. You can feel free to reach out to him on Instagram @shanaytolat or email at [email protected].

All content by Shanay Tolat
(Alisia Houghtaling for WSN)

Up for Debate: Is college worth the debt?

With tuition costs and student loan debt at record highs, many are questioning whether a college degree is still a worthwhile investment. Is the cost of a college education justified by its benefits?

In 2024, The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics found a strong positive relationship between level of education and income. The same chart showed a 1.7% difference in the unemployment...

(Kiara Mujica for WSN)

Opinion: Cancel culture blurs accountability and annihilation

Cancel culture has permeated our social media and culture, and we must properly wield this power to make or break an individual’s public image.
Shanay Tolat, Deputy Opinion Editor March 12, 2025

We are all familiar with what it means to get “canceled” — it all starts with an off-color comment resurfacing from a YouTube video back in 2010, and quickly ignites a social...

(Tori Osmond for WSN)

Opinion: Addressing Gen Z’s social anxiety crisis

As social anxiety permeates the lives of Gen Zers, NYU students must acknowledge it and the university should create spaces that facilitate meaningful connection.
Shanay Tolat, Deputy Opinion Editor March 7, 2025

You are standing outside the first meeting for a club, contemplating whether or not it’s a good idea to walk in. While you know this is a good way to meet new people, make...

(Kiara Mujica for WSN)

Opinion: Gen Z might never get the American Dream

With rampant inflation, rent prices and student debt defining the lives of Gen Z, it is important to consider how NYU can help its students navigate their financial future.
Shanay Tolat, Deputy Opinion Editor February 28, 2025

Older generations often tell us that if we work hard enough we can achieve the American Dream — the stereotypical suburban house with a white picket fence, a spacious backyard...

Off Topic: DeepSeek’s arrival is a wakeup call for AI regulation

Off Topic: DeepSeek’s arrival is a wakeup call for AI regulation

With a new, more cost-effective chatbot permeating the market and openly sharing the secrets to its success, we must question whether DeepSeek’s effects will be disturbing or democratic.
Shanay Tolat, Deputy Opinion Editor February 19, 2025

Just last week, DeepSeek, the latest competitor to ChatGPT, burst onto the scene, immediately causing an uproar among U.S. tech companies and the recently inaugurated Trump administration....