Today’s weather forecast is predicting sunshine in the morning followed by cloudy skies in the afternoon with a high of 65 degrees and a low of 49 degrees.
All USAID projects at MSU terminated by Trump administration
Over the past month, 47 Malawian students studying through Michigan State University lost their scholarships–funding that came from a USAID-backed program to strengthen higher education in Malawi. The sudden cancellation came after the U.S. Department of State shut down all USAID projects at MSU on February 26.
These terminations are part of a broader shift in federal foreign aid policy. Under President Trump’s executive order, “Reevaluating and Realigning United States Foreign Aid,” over 5,000 USAID contracts were cut, including MSU’s Transforming Higher Education Systems project.
MSU faculty were blindsided. Researchers like Dr. Marcy Hessling O’Neil, who co-led the scholarship program, say these students–many of them from ultra-poor backgrounds–now have no way to continue their education.
Faculty across campus are scrambling to secure new funding and raise awareness. On April 17, they painted MSU’s iconic Rock with the words, “USAID Cuts — Who will feed and educate the world?”
Despite the setbacks, researchers say they’re committed to continuing their global work–one way or another.
Drag meets arts-and-crafts at UAB’s Craftopia
Over the weekend, MSU’s University Activities Board brought color, creativity, and performance to campus with Craftopia–an end-of-semester arts-and-crafts event held Saturday, April 19 at the International Center.
Alongside painting, jewelry-making, and vision board stations, students were treated to high-energy drag performances by DeeDee Chaunte and Mia Cole, who kept the energy high while interacting with the crowd.
Justin Babbitt, a graduate assistant with UAB, said the event was designed to give students a supportive space to come together, express themselves, and have fun in a low-pressure environment. He said it’s important for students to have a “third space” outside of the dorms and classrooms where they can just be.
Many students came out to relax before finals. Sophomore Emily Biskner said she was drawn in by the mix of crafting and drag, calling it the perfect way to spend a Saturday afternoon. Psychology sophomore Nicole Becker echoed that, saying she was mostly there for the drag show–but appreciated the chance to unwind creatively, too.
Held in the International Center, the event took advantage of its central location and built-in stage–something Babbitt said made it extra special.
For students wrapping up the semester, Craftopia offered a colorful moment of connection, creativity, and celebration.
Connecting with nature poses mental health benefits
As the semester winds down, many students fall into the habit of “bed rotting”–a term for spending long stretches of time scrolling online in bed. While it might feel like a break, experts say it can actually take a toll on mental health.
A better alternative? Stepping outside.
MSU freshman Emma Butkevicius swears by nature walks, which she takes several times a week during the summer. She says they’re a gentle reminder to slow down, focus on the little things, and reconnect with the beauty of the world.
One of the best spots to do that on campus is the Beal Botanical Garden. Community and Sustainability Coordinator Angelica Bajos says the garden is more than just a green space–it’s a place for healing. She’s working on programs that promote well-being and belonging through time spent in nature.
Bajos also points out a fascinating detail: microbes in soil can actually boost serotonin and endorphins, giving gardening a direct mental health benefit. But despite the benefits, many students still pass the garden without taking the time to enjoy it.
Public health professor Katherine Alaimo has studied how urban gardening reduces stress and anxiety. She says the connection to nature–and the act of watching plants grow or bees buzz–can be almost meditative.
Whether it’s gardening, walking, or just sitting outside, the message is clear: nature’s sensory richness–sights, smells, sounds, and touch–can help us slow down and reset.
So if you’re looking to recharge after finals, maybe trade the screen for some sunshine.
Based on original reporting by Hannah Locke, Amy Cho and Reiel Ghiglia.
