Volume 1
Issue 5
For the Kean University Student Community
September 28, 2004
The
COUGAR’SByte An Office of Student Life & Leadership Development Publication
HOMECOMING WEEKEND Kean Spectacular Circus Carnival is far more than three days of socializing with classmates, faculty, alumni, family and friends. It's a whole explosive season in itself. Its loads of fun, free, and it happens all over campus.
Thursday, October 7, 2004 HOMECOMING DANCE 9:00 pm – 1:00 am Downs Hall Friday, October 8, 2004 PEP RALLY 6:00 – 9:00 pm Alumni Stadium Giveaways ~ Performances ~ Fireworks
Not only will you experience Kean Spectacular Circus Carnival from a fantastic center campus location -- you will actually become part of the show! You’ll be invited to enjoy good music and fun times with classmates and friends at the Homecoming Dance, be wowed by amazing performances and colorful displays of fireworks at the Pep Rally, mingle with clowns, stilt walkers, balloon artists, jugglers and more at the Tailgating Picnic, cheer on the men’s soccer team as they compete against Greensboro and then don’t miss another opportunity to show your cougar pride as the football team takes on Montclair and the homecoming king and queen are announced. Finally wrap things up as Saves the Day songs come pouring out of Wilkins Theatre at the Homecoming Concert. Homecoming exists for you, the Kean community to experience. For those who take the plunge, it is an opportunity to learn about the truth, joy and art of cougar pride! Come and enjoy this once-a-year experience!
HOMECOMING DAY Saturday, October 9, 2004 TAILGATING PICNIC 11:00 am – 5:00 pm Bruce Hall Parking Lot School Spirit Contests ~ Gieaways Clowns ~ Stilt Walkers ~ Spin Art Moon Bounce ~ Cotton Candy Popcorn ~ Prizes Carnival Games Caricatures ~ Face Painting ~ Balloon Artist ~ Juggler ~ Ringmaster
MEN’S SOCCER GAME Kean vs. Greensboro College 11:00 am Alumni Stadium FOOTBALL GAME Kean vs. Montclair State Red Hawks 3:00 pm Alumni Stadium Giveaways ~ School Spirit Contest Performances ~ Homecoming King and Queen Ceremony
HOMECOMING CONCERT Saves the Day 9:00 pm Wilkins Theatre
Up ‘til Dawn For the second year in a row, Kean University’s Greek Senate will host Up 'til Dawn, a year-long student-led, student-run program to benefit St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, the internationally renowned treatment center for children with catastrophic illnesses. Open to the entire Kean community, participants will join teams and raise money throughout the year. It is up to the teams to decide how to come up with their funds – so be creative! Then in March, the Up ‘til Dawn event will come to an end with a huge celebration on campus, featuring great music and lots of fun. Don’t miss this great opportunity to help support this wonderful organization and help us make a difference! Registration is on September 30th from 10 am – 3 pm in the University Center Greek Lounge – so don’t forget!
5K Race/Walk On Saturday, October 9, 2004 at 9:30 am, the Nathan Weiss Graduate College will host the 2nd Annual Graduate College Scholarship 5K Race/Walk. All proceeds from the run will assist the Kean University Foundation in providing scholarships to Kean University Graduate Students. Registration will take place at 8:00 am in the Visitors Circle at the Green Lane entrance to Kean University. Entry fees are $10 for Kean students with ID and $15 for all other entrants. A commemorative race T-shirt will be given to the first 150 registrants. The race will begin promptly at 9:30 am. The start/finish line will be on the main campus. Course route will include the perimeter of the campus and the interior walkways through the center of campus. Water will be available at the start/finish line and 1 1/2 mile mark. Awards will be given to the 1st overall male and female. 1st male and female winners; age groups 19 and under, 20-29, 30-39, 4049, 50-59, 60-69, 70+.
For bonus news and information, visit our online edition at www.cougarsbyte.com
R E G I S T E R AT W W W. C O U G A R S B Y T E . C O M T O G ET T CCT Tips
He Said… She Said…
Just some reminders about starting or updating your Co-Curricular Transcript: Come to room 219 and pick up a “new” or “update” co-curricular transcript form for this upcoming year
Co-sponsored by the Office of Residence Life and the Center for Academic Success, He Said … She Said … came to Kean University for the first time this year. Katie Koestner, a survivor of date rape in college, told her story to over 200 students last Monday in Wilkins Theatre in hopes that her program prevents the same thing from happening to others.
Keep a list of all activities and organizations you participate in throughout the semester Don’t forget to sign CCT attendance forms when you participate in a workshop that is approved for CCT credit Stop by room 219 and update your transcript every couple of months by handing in your form and talking with a CCT assistant Be sure to have proof for all of the items you list on your transcript form Any questions please do not hesitate to call The Office of Student Life at (908) 737-5170, visit us during office hours, or e-mail us at cct@kean.edu.
Katie’s goal is to raise awareness about sexual assault and date rape by personalizing the issue and compelling college students to realize that it is more than just a bunch of statistics. As Katie says, “Men often think it is not their issue, but it’s about positive men taking a stance to become good role models. It is as simple as having men become more respectful towards women.” Koestner emphasized that there are three factors that can prevent date rape. The first is responsibility with alcohol and drugs, as they are involved in 90% of rapes. The second and third are communication and respect. Koestner said that sex without consent is rape and silence does not mean yes. "Some people don’t understand ‘no’ and if they don’t understand ‘no’ they don’t respect you," she said. Statistics show that about 1 in every 4 women is a victim of sexual assault, but women are not the sole victims of sexual assault. Approximately 1 in every 8 men is also victim of a sexual assault in his lifetime. In American colleges, about 84% of all sexual assaults involve someone the victim already knows and the use of drugs or alcohol. Kean University works collaboratively with the Union County Rape Crisis Center. To reach their 24 hours a day, 7 days a week HOTLINE service, call (908) 233-RAPE (7273). You can also contact the Kean Counseling Center by calling (908) 737-4850 or stopping by their office in Downs Hall, room 127.
Elie Wiesel Prize in Ethics Essay Contest This annual contest was created to challenge college students to contemplate ethical issues facing them in today’s complex society and to analyze their own perceptions and thoughts on ethics. Essay contest is open to undergraduate full-time juniors and seniors to compete for awards of up to $5000. Deadline is December 3, 2004.
Additional Parking Spaces Each semester, the same scenario plays out — parking lots are overcrowded, causing students to stress out because they can’t find parking spots and are late for classes. However, this year parking is permitted at the NJ TRANSIT® Union Station within the yellow lines after 10 a.m. each day with a valid Kean University parking sticker. And, on a temporary basis for the first few weeks of the fall semester, an additional parking area for students and staff has been created on campus in the grassy field located behind Alumni Stadium, which can be accessed from Green Lane. Please contact the Office of Administration and Finance at (908) 737-7020 with any questions.
For more information contact The Office of Scholarship Services, or visit the Elie Wiesel Foundation website at http://www.eliewieselfoundation.org/EthicsPrize/EPContest.htm.
LOVE TO DANCE?
Teacher Job Fair
If the answer is yes, come audition for the Kean Dance Theatre on Monday, October 4, 2004 from 3:30 – 4:50 pm in D’Angola Gym, room 107 (Dance Studio). All Kean students are welcome to audition. Please come dressed in proper attire and prepared to dance.
Career Services is holding a Teacher Job Fair on Thursday, October 21, 2004 from 3:00 – 6:00 pm in Downs Hall. Meet with representatives from a variety of school districts regarding open and anticipated vacancies. Please remember to bring plenty of quality resumes and be prepared to talk with school administrators about your experiences and skills. It is also recommended that you dress appropriately in interview attire such as suits and business dress. To find a complete listing of participating schools or for more information, visit www.kean.edu/~career/.
Kean Dance Theatre, a student-based dance group funded by the Student Organization of Kean University, Inc., offers both males and females the opportunity to perform in diverse pieces choreographed by faculty, guest artists, or fellow students.
H E L AT E S T N E W S S E N T D I R E C T LY T O Y O U R E M A I L . DEPRESSION & ANXIETY SCREENING DAY People s a y college is supposed to be “the time of your life”. But for many, college life can be difficult. Many students often feel stressed, anxious, disconnected and alone. In order to help, on Thursday October 7, 2004, the Kean Counseling Center will provide free, confidential, in-person screening for a range of common emotional conditions that include depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder. If you are feeling sad, angry, stressed, weepy or anxious, Depression and Anxiety Screening Day can help you figure out what is wrong. At the screening, you can fill out a questionnaire and talk with a counselor about your personal situation.
Got The Blues? When we think of the term “disease” we usually associate that with a physical illness. We generally go to the doctor when we begin to experience symptoms that are associated with a health problem. We know that illnesses can have a serious impact on our life and ignoring the problem can make it worse. We also know that, in general, there are effective treatments available. Many people do not associate depression with the term “disease,” however, depression can have as negative an impact on a person’s life as any other major health issue. Depression has clear symptoms, can worsen over time if left untreated, and can be lifethreatening. Also, like many physical illnesses, effective treatments are available. All too often, however, people fail to recognize the symptoms or take them seriously.
Keeping Depression Under Control The Kean Counseling Center is located in Downs Hall room 127. Please call us at (908) 737-4850 for an appointment, stop by our office during Fall Semester office hours (Mon, Tues, Wed, & Fri from 9 am - 5 pm or Thurs from 9 am - 8 pm), or visit us online at www.kean.edu/~kcc/ for NEW online Mental Health Screening.
People often do not view depression as a health issue, and ignore symptoms. They may think it is a sign of weakness or it means that they are crazy. The fact is that anybody, even the most normal person, can get depressed. It can be brought on by stress, relationship problems or loss of a loved one. Life changes, even positive ones like graduating, can make a person more vulnerable. Other causes can be related to hormonal imbalance, brain chemistry, medication side effects, alcohol or drug use, or any number of health conditions.
Not seeking help for depression can be as dangerous as ignoring physical health problems. If you think you may be experiencing depression, take action now, rather than letting the problem get worse. Help is a phone call away.
Strategies For Managing Depression Strategies help people take control over depression and may be as simple as evaluating what you really need in order to help with a problem or project. Some ideas include: Get involved in an exercise program and turn that negative energy into something positive Read a good book Go out for a meal with friends or maybe a movie Take a walk with a friend Writing your feelings down may help to process what you are feeling. Every moment spent processing is valuable. Try not to talk yourself down. Negative talk is not healthy and does not focus on any positive solutions. Learn breathing techniques or focus on a new hobby. Go to counseling for exploration on how you are feeling. In most cases symptoms can be greatly reduced or eliminated. Old patterns take time to change but it is never impossible.
Join The Africana Studies Club
Hechizo Latino A concert full of romance and enhancement Chamber Music for Violin and Piano Catalin Bucataru, violinist (Spain) Marlenes L. Luvins, Pianist (Cuba) Performing Brahms, Falls and more. Sunday, October 10, 2004 at 3:00 pm East Campus FREE ADMISSION
The Office of Africana Studies invites everyone to join the Africana Studies Club (ASC). The ASC offers the opportunity for each Kean student to gain knowledge of the history, culture, and contributions of the descendents of African origin throughout the African Diaspora. The ASC supports the projects of the Office of Africana Studies and participants in educational and social activities designed to provide a deeper appreciation for the experiences and challenges to people of African descent throughout the world. The ASC meets on the following Wednesdays during College Hour (3:30 - 4:50 pm) in Hutchinson, Room J-336. September 22; October 6 & 20; November 3 & 17; December 1 For more information please stop by the Office of Africana Studies in Hutchinson Hall J-302 or call us at (908) 737-3915.
Student Spotlight
Kean University offers a wide range of opportunities for its students whether it’s for a career, an extra curricular activity or an athletic performance. For Kean University senior, Leeanne Higgins, it was all three. The 21 year old commuter from Avenel, NJ has taken advantage of these opportunities since arriving at Kean in Fall 2001. Leeanne came to Kean University primarily for its great teacher education program and decided to pursue a double major, Elementary Education and English. Although new to Kean, Leanne was well versed in school involvement. In high school, she was a member of the cheerleading squad and decided to continue to cheer here at Kean. In her fourth year as a cheerleader, Leanne is currently one of captains of the cheerleading team and continues to achieve, excel and have fun through her involvement.
Leeanne’s involvement did not stop there. Just after the completion of her first year at Kean, she decided to become a Peer Liaison with the Center for Academic Success. Being an Education major, Leeanne knew it was a great opportunity for her to get a realistic feel for what it would be like in front of the classroom. She also wanted to “help freshman get involved at Kean,” much like the way she did. As a Peer Liaison, Leeanne’s responsibilities included coinstructing the one-credit First Year Seminar course, mentoring new students about involvement at Kean, assisting with new student registrations and New Student Orientation, and performing clerical work in the Center for Academic Success. Leanne’s promotion to a Team Leader after just one year as a Peer Liaison is another display of her astounding accomplishments as a result of her dedication to helping her fellow students. As a Team Leader, Leanne assumed even more responsibilities like supervising and delegating work to other Peer Liaisons, assisting with monthly team meetings, and the hiring and training of individuals interested in helping freshmen by becoming Peer Liaisons. When Leeanne is not working as a Peer Liaison or cheering for our Cougar teams,
AIMing For Success she is organizing fundraisers as the President of the Peer Liaison Club. For the past several years, the Peer Liaison Club has raised money for the Day Care Center and our Kean Cougar Mascots in the Turtle Back Zoo through activities like selling care packages filled with different types of coffee, fruits and other items to help ease the stress of studying for finals. Since their inception in 1986, the Peer Liaison program and the First Year Seminar course have exceeded expectations. Within less than two decades of operation, both have received international recognition, most notably in the September 10, 2001 edition of Time magazine. Under Dr. Farahi’s vision of the “academic one-stop center,” the First Year Center, Learning Assistance Program, Career Services, Transfer Student Services, General Education Department and college advisors merged in July 2003 to become the Center for Academic Success. Peer Liaisons and Tutors, now referred to as Academic and Instructional Mentors, or AIMs, have increased responsibilities in order to meet the needs of Kean students. The Center for Academic Success is currently located on the first floor of the Administration Building and will be moving to the New Academic Building II upon its opening in January 2005.
Upcoming Events October 1 - S.E.E.D.S. Workshop, Caviar Taste & Cheeseburger Wallet October 1 - S.A.G.E. Workshop, Managing It All October 6 - BIG Events Little Theatre, Hypnotism & Beyond October 7 - Homecoming Dance October 8 - Homecoming Pep Rally October 9 - Homecoming Day October 12 - Wicked Bus Trip October 17 - Breast Cancer Walk October 23 - Family Weekend October 27 - BIG Event Little Theatre, Movie: Spiderman2 October 29-31 - Student Affairs/Student Organization Leadership Retreat
For bonus news and information, visit our online edition at www.cougarsbyte.com