Is there cosmic harmony among UMKC students, or is astrology just a celestial curiosity?
Students’ beliefs about astrology mirror the variety of their academic interests. From skeptics to avid believers, contrasting views on zodiac signs and their influence shine through the student body.
With apps like Snapchat broadcasting zodiac signs in bios now, most students seemed to know their sign, even if they didn’t know the characteristics along with them.
“I don’t really know any of the traits of a Pisces,” said nursing student Bethany Markham.
However, Jackson Brink, a film student, feels like he fits right into his group.
“Anytime I see anything about Scorpio traits, it seems to match my personality,” said Brink.
When it comes to horoscopes in general, the consensus seemed to be very equally split. With some students seeing no harm in it, and others keeping the same skepticism they had about astrology.
“Horoscopes in general are kind of sketchy to me personally,” said psychology major Kaylee Riley.
Signs also seem to affect how students interact with each other, whether that be because of negative stigma or even gender-specific traits.
“I try to stay away from Leos, in my experience they are very manipulative,” said psychology major Greenly Johnston.
While Johnston tends to avoid Leos due to perceived manipulative traits, criminal justice major Tasha Moss has other interpretations.
“I think Aquarius men are jackasses and narcissists, and Aquarius women are outgoing and spunky,” said Moss.
As for why astrology has gained popularity among our generation, it is multifaceted. For some it offers a common ground, something shared that creates connections.
“It’s how we express ourselves to one another. It helps a lot of people around the world bond,” said Johnston.
For others it’s about finding comfort in societal labels, providing a sense of identity and belonging.
“People love labels and they hold onto those labels to make themselves feel more comfortable in their own skin,” said Brink.
Some even use them as a coping mechanism, a means to gauge relationship potential and navigate interactions with a filter.
“Just to see if the relationship with said person will have promise. A coping mechanism to only talk to people who are not awful,” said Moss.
