This post was updated Feb. 28 at 9:06 p.m.  A new app is zapping the gap between the internet and interpersonal communication. Developed by Justin Liao, vice president of parent company Ph7, Zapshot aims to eliminate the time spent typing messages online, creating a way for a new generation of social media consumers to more efficiently and intimately communicate, Liao said. Read more...

Photo: Two women wearing blue tie-dye Zapshot hoodies smile together. Ruka Nagashima (right), an alumnus, is the lead marketing intern for the new social media app, which uses voice messaging instead of traditional text chats. She said Zapshot aims to reach a Generation Z audience at UCLA. (Courtesy of Ruka Nagashima)

This post was updated Feb. 14 at 8:39 p.m. With each bead and thread, Reika Goto is crafting both the ethereal and the whimsical. The second-year communication and psychology student is the owner of Laurei Designs, a small business that sells handmade jewelry and customized embroidery pieces. Read more...

Photo: Reika Goto shows off her beaded jewelry. The second-year communication and psychology student runs an online business called Laurei Designs where she sells beaded products, including necklaces, rings and earrings. (Ethan Manafi/Daily Bruin staff)