Madison Butchko
Staff Columnist
Madison Butchko is a staff writer for the WKND desk. Madison writes personal essays and exposés that explore new ideas and diverse perspectives. She is originally from Michigan and is in Jonathan Edwards College.
Author Archive
Writer’s high

There are moments when the body hums with a tension, as if the day itself tightened its grip around one’s shoulders, around one’s mind. This pressure has no form, at least not yet, though I feel it swelling inside, pulsating throughout my body, demanding discharge. I know it well — the accumulation of emotions, unspoken thoughts and the weight of experiences pressed too long against my ribs. I know it must come out. And so I move, instinctively, without thought. Whether it’s my fingers or my legs, I simply move forward. 

Cristina Yang: embracing authentic Asian American representation

Intelligent. Fierce. Ambitious. Cristina Yang, played by actress Sandra Oh, has been one of my favorite fictional television characters from “Grey’s Anatomy,” a medical drama. Set at Seattle Grace Hospital, the show follows the lives of doctors and interns, with Cristina Yang, a standout among them. 

Madison Butchko
WHY WORDS

I have always found words captivating. I’ve always been precise with my words because that is how I convey the meaning of my inner thoughts. […]

Nonfiction Book Reviews

Exploring nonfiction can offer a refreshing break from the rigors of academic reading, providing an accessible dive into diverse topics. While typically favoring lighter reads, […]

Madison Butchko
Spring Break Book Reviews

This spring break I’ve been trying to pick up a book and not my phone. Mindlessly reaching for my phone and getting lost in endless […]

Madison Butchko
Thrills and chills: a book review for The Housemaid Series

Thrillers have always been my go-to genre whenever I fall into the dreaded reading slump. But once I immerse myself in gripping narratives, I know I won’t be able to stop reading. Good thrillers are addictive. Such was my experience with Freida McFadden's widely popular series, "The Housemaid." With three books slated for publication and the third one anticipated later this year, I eagerly dived into the first two installments, and here's what I thought about them.

A guide to Elm gelato

I frequent the Elm Cafe, on the lower level of the Schwarzman Center, for my regular fix of a $4.50 regular-sized mocha. But one day, as I casually perused the menu, my eyes darted to the gelato section. To my surprise, the prices were notably lower — just $3.25 for a single scoop. It was a whole dollar cheaper than my beloved mocha and even less expensive than a latte, which is $4! One scoop of gelato was all it took to convert me to the sweet side.

A gem: Lisa Jewell’s thrillers rock

After a year-long hiatus, I've found myself drawn once again to the irresistible allure of thrillers. There's something about the intricate interplay of mystery, suspense and the relentless pursuit of the truth that keeps me glued to the pages until the very end. One of the most popular authors of this genre is Lisa Jewell. Authoring over 30 books, Jewell crafts psychological page-turners that ensnare readers in a web of drama, twists, and intrigue. Setting out on my thrilling literary journey, I selected three of Jewell's most recent and acclaimed works to reignite my love of reading

Until I could read

Until I was seven, I could not read.  Ever since I was in first grade, I had a secret. Whenever my teacher read books out loud, I’d memorize every word, repeating them over and over in my head. Pretending my mind was a recorder, I’d replay each sentence to make sure it stuck. Every day I played this game. Not for fun. But for survival. 

A Guide to Online Thrifting

Looking Expensive … for Cheap    “If I can’t feel good, at least I can look good.”  I’ve let this statement guide me towards a […]