Ilana Drake

New York, Nashville

Contributor at Freelance

Staff Writer at Vanderbilt Hustler

Activist, Feminist, and Writer/ Words in @Newsweek, @Insider, @Ms, & others

Articles

Voter Registration in High Schools and Colleges Across America

Sep 5, 2024 | yr.media | Ilana Drake

As America gets ready for a politically tense election on Nov. 5, over 8 million youth now are eligible to vote in the election as compared to the 2022 midterms. Currently, the Center for Information & Research on Civic Learning and Engagement notes that these 8 million youth are part of the almost 41 million Gen Z who can cast a ballot. Across the country, many youth are working to get their peers informed about the voting process and registered to vote.
Summer in My City: New York City

Jul 29, 2024 | yr.media | Ilana Drake

When my peers in college speak of New York City, they often resort to what I call the “tourist traps.” There are spots, like Times Square on 42nd Street, which out-of-towners are known for visiting when they spend a few days here. But as a native New Yorker, I’m here to fill you in on the best (and secret) spots that are cheaper and more accessible.
I'm Jewish-I'm Nervous About Going Back to College

Jul 24, 2024 | newsweek.com | Ilana Drake

This summer, during my internship, my colleagues enthusiastically asked me if I was excited about my upcoming senior year at Vanderbilt University. Some reminisced about how fun-filled their senior year had been. I listened to their stories but did not feel anticipation or excitement. I finished my junior year exhausted. I took 18 hours worth of classes each semester—6 classes—to complete my double major, and, October 7th and the campus chaos that followed felt like an additional class.
I Fought for My Non-Jewish Peers—Their Silence Now Is Deafening - NewsBreak

Mar 22, 2024 | newsbreak.com | Ilana Drake

Welcome to NewsBreak, an open platform where diverse perspectives converge. Most of our content comes from established publications and journalists, as well as from our extensive network of tens of thousands of creators who contribute to our platform. We empower individuals to share insightful viewpoints through short posts and comments.
I Fought for My Non-Jewish Peers-Their Silence Now Is Deafening

Mar 22, 2024 | newsweek.com | Ilana Drake

I'm a junior at Vanderbilt majoring in Public Policy Studies and English. I've found that although teens in America are not directly in battle, they are feeling the effects of the Israel-Hamas War on college campuses and school districts across the country. As a college student, I've felt the divisions on campus following October 7. I am Jewish and have participated in Israeli-Palestinian dialogue through an organization called Seeds of Peace.
Dark Alleys, Empty Spaces: How Construction on College Campuses Impacts Young Women

Feb 13, 2024 | msmagazine.com | Ilana Drake

Last semester, I realized how much construction on my college campus impacted my daily routines at Vanderbilt. In the early morning, when the sun had not yet risen, I would fear walking in areas near the construction of Kirkland Hall, one of the areas under renovation. At night, my friends and I realized the lack of lighting at the construction areas near the library felt like an additional burden. We started exchanging locations and forming groups to walk back to our dorms.
YR Media’s Best Climate Stories of 2023

Dec 30, 2023 | yr.media | Ilana Drake |Amber Ly

This year will likely be named the hottest year on record. As we look back on a tumultuous year, read and listen to some of our top climate pieces of 2023. Meet three young adults who are leading innovative environmental justice solutions in their communities in New Orleans, Chicago, and Oakland. These profiles were published in collaboration with YR Media, Grist and Next City. Grist is a nonprofit, independent media organization dedicated to telling stories of climate solutions and a just future.
Getting Voices Heard in NYC: Youth Leadership Councils

Dec 5, 2023 | yr.media | Ilana Drake |Kathy Chaney

Nashville — New York City Service enables youth ages 14 to 21 to serve on NYC Youth Leadership Councils (YLCs) where youth are able to get their voices heard. YLCs occur through City agencies, schools, and community organizations, and each YLC focuses on a specific issue.
Nashville Youth Get a Voice Through Mayor’s Youth Council

Dec 5, 2023 | yr.media | Ilana Drake |Kathy Chaney

Nashville — Youth from public and private schools in the Nashville area are becoming leaders through engaging with their local community. Under the Mayor’s Office, The Mayor’s Youth Council (MYC) in Nashville, Tennessee consists of high school sophomores, juniors and seniors interested in tackling issues in the city. Ayna Sibtain, 17, a senior at MLK High School is approaching her third year on the MYC.
The study spot matters: Hidden spots on campus

Nov 9, 2023 | vanderbilthustler.com | Ilana Drake

When the Central study rooms are occupied and you want to find a quiet study space on campus, it can be difficult to settle down. While going off-campus can be fun, the convenience of staying on campus also has its perks. As the semester shifts into high gear and you seek to rejuvenate your study habits, we’ve rated our personal favorite study spots to suit your needs.