Rising gas prices tied to international tensions, a sustainability-driven beauty challenge, and a campus mental health walk were among the stories featured this week on Air on the Air.
Gas Prices Bite Local Commuters
Gasoline costs have climbed nationwide as escalating tensions in the Middle East disrupted shipping through a critical oil passage, tightening global supply and sending crude prices sharply higher in recent weeks. Crude briefly rose from roughly $70 a barrel to as high as $119 before easing below $100; the U.S. Energy Information Administration reported the national average price of gasoline jumped nearly 50 cents in one week.
Although Missouri remains one of the more affordable states for fuel, students who commute to SEMO from nearby communities such as Jackson and Scott City are already feeling the impact. Many have adjusted routines—carpooling, combining errands, or taking extra work hours—to absorb increased transportation costs. Economists warn prices could climb again if tensions escalate, or stabilize if diplomatic efforts calm markets.
Project PAN: A Campus Take on Sustainability and Mindful Spending
A viral social media trend known as Project PAN is gaining traction on SEMO’s campus as students adopt the “finish-before-you-buy” approach to beauty and personal-care products. Participants document near-empty lipsticks, used skincare bottles, and other progress on platforms like TikTok and Instagram.
Graduate assistant Barbara Reese said the trend reflects growing awareness of overconsumption. Research cited by industry sources estimates billions of dollars in waste from overproduction and unused beauty items annually; Project PAN encourages students to rethink purchasing habits and consider sustainability and mindful spending—if only as a small step toward reducing waste.
No One Walks Alone: Nursing Students Lead Mental Health Advocacy
SEMO’s Student Nurses Association hosted the “No One Walks Alone” mental health advocacy walk last Friday, drawing students, faculty, and alumni despite cold, windy weather. The event raised funds and awareness for suicide prevention and mental health, with proceeds benefiting the Southeast Missouri Network Against Sexual Violence; organizers also sold T‑shirts to increase donations.
SNA president London Pope said the group chooses a charity each semester and shifted this semester’s focus to mental health following a recent community loss. The walk began with brief remarks from student organizers and followed a loop around campus past Academic Hall and other central buildings. Nursing students emphasized the event’s role in connecting mental and physical health, reducing stigma, and encouraging open conversations among peers.