An Astrology Chat event at CSUSB that discussed self-reflection and Pseudoscience.

The Understanding Astrology zoom event hosted by CSUSB Women's Resource Center brought together students from different concentrations to talk about astrology. Photo Courtesy of Mayibel Ruiz

By Mayibel Ruiz

The CSUSB Women's Resource Center held an Astrology Chat zoom event Thursday, March 10th, with other fellow CSUSB students to explore self-identity, wellness, and community topics.

Astrology is a pseudoscience, meaning there is no scientific proof to support astrological claims. Instead, astrology uses the alignment of the stars and planets to explain horoscopes, zodiac signs, and more complex topics within astrology. It's safe to say astrology is up to interpretation according to your own beliefs and perception. Some see astrology as intuitive, while others see it as a phenomenon. At the astrology chat event, Katelynn Spoerhase, the event host, introduced the basic terms of astrology. These terms created a foundational understanding of the zodiac signs, their elements, and modalities. The event used all this foundational information to kick off a discussion on astrology with its participants.

"The intention behind the Understanding Astrology event was to provide some information and education on the topic, focusing on zodiac signs and characteristics, and then do some self-reflection and inner exploration based on what was presented. It went very well, and there was a great discussion!" said event host Katelynn Spoerhase.

The chat style of this event began with each participant sharing their zodiac signs and overall knowledge of astrology before the event. The consensus was that our understanding of astrology was limited. After Katelynn presented the foundational information about astrology, students began sharing their Zodiac sign descriptions and how each of us related to the description. This brought up the topic of accountability during the discussion. When we dive into astrology topics, it's easy to write off negative behaviors and characteristics as characteristics and traits associated with a Zodiac sign. In reality, to grow as a person, we need to remember to take accountability for our actions.

Astrology is often considered a feminine interest, "even though astrology has more feminine interests. I see men who are into astrology; however, they usually have feminine qualities. I think it's because you do need those qualities to notice subtle differences between the zodiac signs. For example, I do notice that a Scorpio man acts differently than a Scorpio female, and this applies to all zodiac signs," said Professor of Communication Studies Jessica Vierra.

Gender association to astrology was also a topic discussed at the event. Astrology is sometimes looked down on because it's a pseudoscience. However, during the discussion, Katelynn brought up an important question: "why do you think interest in astrology is specific to gender?". Katelynn's question sparked conversation regarding women's strong affiliation to astrology and the overall acceptance by society that astrology is a feminine topic. However, as the event participants discussed, astrology was more likely to be associated with a woman's interest because astrology is very intuitive. Astrology allows you to explore who you are from a different perspective than you usually would while also keeping in mind that not everything will apply to you.

The Women's Resource Center holds events that interest CSUSB students because "the WRC staff is comprised of students, so we know what generates interest because the people who lead the programs are students themselves. We also gain ideas from our assessment surveys from previous events, and conversations with students who visit the center," said Paloma Hinojosa Women's Resource Center Coordinator. Additionally "the WRC offers free pads and tampons, free printing (5 sheets of paper maximum), free pregnancy tests, free snacks, and access to a microwave and refrigerator. We are here to help connect students to resources both on and off-campus. We encourage the campus community to visit our center on the 3rd floor of SMSU North, Room 3314, to learn more!"

CSUSB's Women's Resource Center (WRC), located in the South San Manuel Student Union, offers resources and programs to help women navigate issues that affect their daily lives. WRC holds events such as astrology chats and other informational events that help empower women. The WRC's focus is on respecting and celebrating diversity. This focus on honoring and respecting diversity was present at the Astrology Chats event, participation was encouraged, and there was a level of camaraderie among the event participants. Everyone could share their own unique experience, and the event participants received their input with support and understanding. The event closed out with the reminder to try new things and explore new ideas. If you would like to attend one of the WRC events, check out their social media for more up-to-date information.

"The Women's Resource Center has some awesome events coming up that will interest students, including The Girls in the Band movie screening, Womxn's Leadership Conference, Empowerment Self Defense, Letters to Survivors, and many more! Students can find additional information on Coyote Connection or follow our Instagram @smsuwrc," explained Spoerhase.