This page is my chance to speak out, which is exactly what I wanted this issue of The Burr to be about — not a chance for me to have my thoughts heard, but a chance to be able to tell the experiences of those who may not always have a voice.

This issue proves that The Burr is a forum that has the ability to make each voice significant, through thoughtful stories, photographs and a collaborative effort from a talented staff. This issue is a voice for the students, a voice for the university and a voice for the community.

We wanted this issue to make you, the reader, think, with stories about real people, trends and issues that affect us, stories we thought would affect you.

For our cover story, Rachel Abbey takes us inside the lives of Kent’s homeless, a problem that sometimes goes undetected because it is not always visible.

From a lighthearted story about student bartenders, to a compelling feature on a Rwandan refugee, to a photo shoot featuring fashion students’ designs, the stories in this issue are as diverse as the university.

The concept of speaking out came through the staff of this issue as well, with an magazine that had a mix of both experienced and up-and-coming writers, photographers and designers. Their talented ideas and opinions were expressed every step of the way in creating The Burr.

This issue has taught me to look closer, to listen and to allow my own voice to be heard. While you read, you will be able to hear the voices of those in our stories, voices that may not have otherwise been heard — on these pages, it was their chance to speak out.