EDITOR'S NOTES 

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Dear reader, 

 

Hello! And welcome to Grey Matters Columbia’s 10th Issue. I am so delighted that you are here. This semester, I have had the absolute pleasure and privilege of working with some of the most talented and passionate minds here on campus. Across all divisions, and with a record-breaking number of applications, our team has cultivated immense progress all semester long, and we could not be more excited to share it with you!

 

This issue begins with a deep dive into the fascinating intersection of neuroscience and architecture, taking us on a tour of the world. From there, we move into a personal reflection on OCD in the brain. Soon after, we get a sneak peek into the mysterious world of split-brain surgery. Building on this, we encounter a philosophical analysis of Parkinson’s Disease, followed by a profound exploration of the neuroscience behind war and the dawn of neurology.

 

Turning another page, we find ourselves in a familiar cafe, witnessing author Noa’s conversation with her amygdala and her reflection on anxiety in women. Following this, we learn about a fascinating disorder known as Charles Bonnet Syndrome, which causes individuals to experience visual hallucinations in response to complete or partial vision loss. As our journey continues, we turn toward the future to explore the deeper impacts of environment-related stress, also known as climate anxiety.

 

As we return to the present day, we learn about a pressing neurological concern, Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy, through both narrative and scientific lenses. And last but certainly not least, we peer inside the mind of a crisis line operator and her texter separately, learning about distinctions in their neural circuitry. ​​Together, these pieces illuminate how neuroscience shapes, and is shaped by, our unique paths. What an incredible collection! Are you excited to read it? Because I sure am.

 

As an undergraduate publication, we are all learning and growing together. Much like the broader academic field, we, too, have been navigating the world of generative AI. We believe that science communication is most powerful when shaped by human curiosity, nuance, and lived experience, and it is for this reason that all of our work is entirely human-made. We take pride in our individuality, creativity, and collaborative structure. Without this, we would not be where we are today, and we wouldn’t have had nearly as much fun delivering this issue to you.

 

Like every aspect of our lives—and as much as we here at CU tend to neurotically strive for it—neuroscience is not perfect. The modern, interdisciplinary field of neuroscience is newer than one might expect, as much of the research now falling under the broad “neuro umbrella” was once categorized as zoology, psychology, and biological sciences (only recently unified into a shared discipline). Today, in 2025, research as we know it faces significant challenges. It is more important than ever to educate ourselves and share knowledge accurately and accessibly in a responsible manner. Thank you for taking the time to do so today by reading our work. 

 

So sit back, take a deep breath, and prepare your visual cortex for the adventure of a lifetime.

 

Gratefully yours,​

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Leeza Pesok 

Editor in Chief