Logo for Byte Magazine at Ball State University

Hot Takes


History Of: AJ Mitchell

Talented at the age of four, AJ Mitchell grew up in Belleville, Illinois, where he learned his piano skills from his father, a pianist. At six years old, Mitchell wrote his first song and, in high school, he was a member of the choir group. He performed at local coffee shops and bars until finding fame in 2016 on social media. His debut single “Used to Be” was released in 2017, which Mitchell claims it’s his favorite song of his to perform.



Top Young Adult Fiction Books of 2020

As 2020 comes to an end, I realized that even though I have spent more time inside this year than just about any other person, I have yet to read a book. I then decided that my mission for the last month of the year was to read the top books of 2020. I originally planned to space out the reads throughout the month, but due to schedule changes I spent most of the week before Christmas completely immersed in books. I struggled to find a list of top books that I found to be both interesting and credible. I finally stumbled upon the Goodreads Choice Awards 2020



Kingdom Hearts Games Ranked (Console Releases)

Kingdom Hearts’ combat system, Disney references, and the overall plot remain unparalleled as one of the finest family-friendly titles and a title everyone should experience at least once in their life. As the series continued, it had its dips and rises but remained unyielding in its replay-ability. These are the titles that performed and underperformed.


Why Stephen King is the Greatest Living Author

Even if you’ve never picked up a book from one of the greatest writers ever, aka Stephen King, chances are you’ve either heard or seen one of the many films inspired by his work. Probably the most recognizable author living today, King has written 63 novels, 120 short stories, 20 novellas, and five non-fiction books. Movies and shows still are being made, with many more in the works, but what makes King’s work memorable and always on the radar of filmmakers? What about his work continues to draw in audiences? There are countless reasons, but here are a few major standouts. 


Coven S7E4: Fake Feminism & Controversies

  Welcome back, witches, to another episode of the Coven! Bubbling in the cauldron this week is fake feminism! Join us as we dive into learning what fake feminism is, and why it's so harmful to the feminist movement. Tune in as we talk about the Mandolorian armor controversy and new updates from Johnny Depp and Amber Heard's messy divorce on this new episode of the Coven! Hosts: Shwetha Sundarrajan & Sam Shipe Edited by: Shwetha Sundarrajan Graphic by: Shwetha Sundarrajan




Socially-Distanced Holiday Activities to do this Winter

As we end this COVID-stricken year, many of us are still quarantining in our homes or are following social-distancing regulations and having to find safe alternatives to celebrate the holiday season. It has been especially difficult getting in the holiday spirit with the unusually warm weather, but listed below are some ways you can still feel festive while following CDC COVID-19 Guidelines


16 Years of Magic with ‘The Polar Express’

With the struggle to find Santa’s existence, the movie’s score, and an ending that continues to leave me in awe, The Polar Express continues to be the best Christmas movie for all ages. It is unrivaled by both live-action and animation Christmas movies alike.