VOLUME 1 • ISSUE 30
A STUDENT LIFE & LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT PUBLICATION FOR THE KEAN UNIVERSITY STUDENT COMMUNITY
MAY 3, 2005
Leaving The Nest By Constance Thomas, Diversity Editor
T
iberah Tsehai is a graduating senior about to receive her B.A in Communications with a concentration in Broadcasting. Tiberah is a native of Ethiopia and has been in the United States for 16 years, residing in Jersey City, New Jersey. She has attended Kean University for four years and is ecstatic about graduating in May. Tiberah is eagerly ready to begin the next phase of her life, but not without the sadness that comes with leaving college and the many people she has come to know over the course of the last four years. Rich Lemonie | The Cougar’s Byte
Rory Yelen, senior Elementary Education and Math major, reads The Cougar’s Byte so she can get caught and get her picture taken for The Cougar’s Byte!
Tiberah, who entered as an EEO student, recalls the times when she didn’t think she would see graduation day, “I believed that four years was so far and it would never come.” She The Cougar’s Byte spoke about Ms. Perkins who was her Hard at work at The Cougar’s Byte, Tiberah cherishes her last days. counselor, “Ms. Perkins was hard, but she knew how to get through to students.” Since then Ms. Perkins has her sophomore year she began to notice, “Some of my peers left Kean and Dr. Annan took over. “Dr. Annan really took the were gone.” In her junior year she equated that college was “like time out to help me during my college years.” Mr. Watson is now playing the game Survivor.” By her senior year she realized that her current counselor. “Mr. Watson has been really outstanding; she was not dreaming and that she will actually be graduating he really cares about the students.” After three counselors, this year. “It‘s a blessing to be here as I embark on the next Tiberah Tsehai has evolved into an upstanding person, who phase of my life.” would make all of her counselors proud. Apart from currently being employed as Senior Diversity Editor of The Cougar’s Byte, Tiberah has held numerous positions at Kean. She was a former Student Ambassador for the Office of Undergraduate Admissions, a Secretary at the Office of Communication Sciences and Education Services in Hutchinson, and she also worked briefly at the Library.
Tiberah Tsehai | The Cougar’s Byte
Jean Claude, freshman Physical Therapy major, was caught reading the online edition in the University Center Computer Lab. He reads The Cougar’s Byte because it keeps him updated on all the new information and events on campus. Get Caught Reading The Cougar’s Byte is geared to promote student involvement and enrichment at Kean University. The contest will run throughout the Spring Semester. So get caught reading The Cougar’s Byte – your picture will be prominently displayed on the front cover and you will receive a Cougar’s Byte t-shirt.
Tiberah was also involved in Kean’s very own WKNJ 90.3 FM as a Disc Jockey, working under Scott McHugh. “Tiberah is an enthusiastic person who cares deeply about career choices in media. She always has a smile on her face and wants to succeed in a difficult industry,” said Scott McHugh, Assistant Chair to the Department of Media and Film. “Tiberah is constantly looking to improve her skills and is very active in developing the skills needed to be successful,” he added. Tiberah was also involved in Kean’s chapter of The National Broadcasting Society. During her college years, Tiberah also had the opportunity to be an Intern at Channel 11 and Amsterdam News located in Harlem, NY. “Although I was at Amsterdam News for a short while, I took a lot from it.” Tiberah often finds herself reminiscing of the days when she was younger, all she did was stay in her room and write, she dreamed of becoming a professional writer someday. She is now grateful that The Cougar’s Byte has given her that chance. When asked what her most memorable moment was, Tiberah replied, “When I was hired by The Cougar’s Byte, working here gave me the chance to pursue something I have always wanted to and I am more than grateful for that.” With plans of becoming a writer after graduation, Tiberah is both sad to leave behind the many friends and relationships that she has formed over the last four years, but grateful for what she has learned and excited about what the future has to offer. “I remember my freshman year like it was yesterday, I was never serious,” she said. “I have changed completely and I have Kean to thank for that.” Tiberah talked about how during
WEATHER OUTLOOK TUESDAY MAY 3, 2005
HI: 44 LO: 60
WEDNESDAY MAY 4, 2005
HI: 46 LO: 64
Like all college students, Tiberah has met some professors that have left a lasting impression on her. “Dr. Mirrer, Chairperson of the Media and Film Department has always been there for me, Dr. Seargent of the Communications Department was the toughest professor I’ve ever had but I learned a lot. Professor Conway, Advisor for the National Broadcast Society, has really done a lot.” Tiberah will also remember Catherine McGovern from the department of Communication Sciences and Education Services, Mr. Leggett, from the College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences, and all the people she has worked with in Undergraduate Admissions and here at The Cougar’s Byte. “These are the people who will live in my heart,” she said. Remembering the good, Tiberah recognizes the impact that Kean University students, staff and faculty, has had on her life. After contacting some of Tiberah’s past professors and employers, most agreed and felt the same way about Tiberah. Tiberah was described as “a very outgoing and bright young woman with a lot of potential,” by Professor Jack Sargent, one of Tiberah’s past professors. “Kean people are the best; I have formed so many relationships with people at Kean. People whom I can go to and sit at their office to chat, even if I never worked there,” she said. “This proves that they care about you. Kean is one big family and I feel like I am leaving the nest.” Constance Thomas, sophomore Social Work major minoring in Criminal Justice, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.
Go confidently in the direction of your dreams. Live the life you’ve imagined. — Henry David Thoreau
For updated forecasts visit http://hurri.kean.edu/~keancast
THURSDAY MAY 5, 2005
HI: 44 LO: 65
FRIDAY
MAY 6, 2005
HI: 46 LO: 64
SATURDAY MAY 7, 2005
HI: 53 LO: 67
SUNDAY MAY 8, 2005
HI: 48 LO: 71
MONDAY MAY 9, 2005
HI: 48 LO: 66
Kean University American Meteorological Society/National Weather Association
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May 3, 2005
Providing Help To Those That Need It By Tiberah Tsehai, Senior Diversity Editor
The Cougar’s Byte
Kean University Office of Student Life & Leadership Development University Center, Room 215 1000 Morris Avenue Union, NJ 07083 (908) 737-5179 cbyte@kean.edu The Cougar’s Byte is a weekly Student Life & Leadership Development newsletter where you will find up to the minute information on all things related to student life at Kean University. Published Tuesdays during the regular academic year, 3000 copies are distributed free of charge at more than 15 campus locations. The content from the print-based weekly is combined with that of special content targeted for The Cougar’s Byte online edition at www.cougarsbyte.com. The Cougar’s Byte is available at the following campus locations: University Center Atrium; Student Life and Leadership Development Office, UC219; Center for Academic Success Atrium; Townsend Hall, 1st floor Reception Area; Bruce Hall 1st and 2nd floor Lounge Areas; Science Building, 1st floor Sitting Area; New Academic Building, 1st floor Lounge; Hutchinson Hall 1st, 2nd and 3rd floor Lobbies; Willis Hall 1st floor Lounge; Vaughn Eames Lobby; Wilkins Theatre Lobby; Whiteman Hall Lobby; Career Development and Advancement; Kean Counseling Center; Health Services. The Cougar’s Byte welcomes Letters to the Editor, calendar events, event news and information, articles, story ideas, artwork and digital photo submissions. To learn more about our publishing policy visit www.cougarsbyte.com. Associate Editor Scott Snowden Assistant Editor Laura Pointon Features Jen Bissu, Senior Editor Campus Rajul Punjabi, Editor Diversity Tiberah Tsehai, Senior Editor Constance Thomas, Editor Arts Rochelle Trotman, Editor Multimedia Editor Rich Lemonie Online Production Coordinator Tracy Pushko Circulation Manager Ryan Matthews Student Media Managing Editor Toni M. Cerbo
D
id you know that Campus Ministry is available to you? What does Campus Ministry mean? Campus Ministry is having a priest or someone who works for a church on staff to provide services on campus. Father Alex Santora is the Catholic Chaplain and has been serving Kean for ten years.
On top of providing services and workshops, Santora is also the faculty advisor for The Newman Club, “It is a student group that I work with.” In December, The Newman Club set up a giving tree. They were able to raise money for the Hayes family with sextuplets. The Newman Club is also active in providing food drives in Thanksgiving, and much more.
Some of the things that Santora provides are Sunday Mass, occasional prayer services, and discussion groups. He also provides counseling for both staff and students and he also hears confessions. “I am here to provide a presence of faith among students and staff,” he said.
Santora is working vigorously to get the word out on Campus Ministry. He feels students at Kean are so inundated with many things going on that it is difficult for them to be aware of what they could be utilizing on campus. “If it was a residential school then it would be a different kind of experience,” he said. “The more exposure we have, the more beneficial.”
There are many things that Campus Ministry provides for students who are interested in becoming involved. For example, there is the SAKE workshop where once a month Santora takes a group of students to Cornell Hall Nursing Home in Union. Santora, along with students, plans on a theme and gets the senior citizens involved through fun activities. “Last month the theme was spring fun, we did spring activities and crowned a spring king and queen,” said Santora. “Last year, senior Gil Torres, a Marine, returned from Iraq so we saluted the military.” In past years, Irish Dancing was performed and shamrock plants were handed out as gifts.
When asked to describe a typical day, Santora said his day is anything but typical. He does not have a staff but the student that works with him has been a great help. “Jamie Besante has been wonderful, she is a talented freshman.” Without any formal help though, Santora’s day is undeniably hectic, but he always has time to give help. “The key thing is no matter what religion or faith a person is, if I could help you, I will,” he said. “I am here to strengthen Catholics, not convert,” he added. If you are interested in attending
Tiberah Tsehai | The Cougar’s Byte Father Santora, the Catholic Chaplain at Kean says no matter what faith or religion a person is, if he can help anyone, he will.
Mass, every Sunday Campus Ministry provides service at 8:00 p.m. in the pre-function lobby of the University Center. For further information on Campus Ministry or The Newman Club, please contact Father Santora at (908) 7374835, you can also e-mail him at alsantor@kean.edu. Campus Ministry is located in Downs Hall 130. Tiberah Tsehai, senior Communications major with a Broadcast emphasis, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.
Smile, You’re On Kean TV! By Tiberah Tsehai, Senior Diversity Editor
Y
es, what you’re reading is right! Ok, you might not be on KEAN TV right at this exact moment, but do you know that in the near future you can? Now the near future is not 5 years, or 10 years away, it can be as fast as tomorrow, hey why not? Many students don’t know this but Kean is equipped with a television studio located on the second floor in Hutchison and any student, no matter what major can be a part of it!
witnessed the media itself reshaping. “Everything is computer driven, computers have made work easy.” Claude recalled a time when he would have to physically go in to cut and paste, “now it’s done electronically and cameras have gotten better.”
Claude, who enjoys working with students, advised current students who are unsure of what to major in to keep Tiberah Tsehai | The Cougar’s Byte searching until they have Like what you see? Claude Everhart says you can be any major to found something they really take part of it all! enjoy. “There is nothing worse then a job you really hate,” he said. “You have to love what you do or it’s not worth going to work.” Gorvens Soulouque, senior Communications Broadcast major, never dreamed he would ever be a part of something remarkable. Claude also encourages interested students to get involved with “I was impressed with the technology and equipment that Kean film and media at Kean. “It will give them the training to work provides,” he said. “It was a privilege, not just to be there, with the equipment.” Students who want to get involved do but because I was able to produce my own project,” he added. not necessarily have to be a Communications major. “You can Producing his own project not only means seeing himself take television production as an elective.” Claude is hoping to on camera, but it also provides a step further for students like get a student operated news show by fall semester and have it Soulouque to get ahead in a competitive industry. broadcasted on campus. Claude Everhart is the Media Technician at the television studio; he is also an adjunct professor here at Kean. Claude With high hopes and dedicated people working hard in the Media is currently busy with different events such as open house and and Film Department to get students the best experience they can ever imagine, now would be the best time to become part commencements. of something extraordinary. Soulouque urges students to take If you ever venture off into the television studio, then chances advantage of this opportunity and to not take it for granted. are you will see Claude working energetically. He described working in the studio as his passion, the same passion he had For more information please contact Claude Everhart at (908) 737-3971, you can also e-mail him at your convenience at when he was in high school. ceverhar@kean.edu. Employed by the university since 1986, Claude has witnessed a lot of drastic changes. “It (Kean) went from a sleepy college Tiberah Tsehai, senior Communications major with a Broadcast emphasis, is a to a big university.” Aside from Kean changing, Claude has member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.
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Commuters Can Too By Constance Thomas, Diversity Editor
W
hen most people hear the word commuter, they think of college students who either live at home or have an apartment and drive to school, attend classes and leave. Every once in a while there is an exception to this theory. Amanda Amelia Padilla, a current freshman Elementary Education and Mathematics major is a commuter and currently holds more positions than most seniors. Involvement on campus is very important to Amanda, she is currently the Freshman Class Treasurer and is a member and has just graduated from the Emerging Leaders Program. Amanda has also completed the Established Leaders Program and is now a member of the Presidential Gold Program and PRIME (Peer Resource in Math
Education). Amanda is now serving on the Concert Committee that planned the Lloyd Banks concert. She also serves on the By-laws and Constitution Committee here at Kean.
leader for three years and served on the Hall and Door Decorating Committee for two years. In Amanda’s free time she covered the boys baseball and basketball stats.
Amanda now works as a Student Aide in the Office of Student Life and Leadership Development and at the YMCA in her hometown doing fitness, membership and family life.
As for the future, Amanda plans to be involved in Student Organization here at Kean for the next three years. Amanda wants to stress the fact that, “Just because you don’t live on campus doesn’t mean that you can’t get involved. When I got to Kean and noticed how commuters weren’t really participating in any activities or organizations, I took the extra initiative to get involved and know what was going on and you can too.”
As far as Amanda’s leadership experience she has held numerous positions in high school organizations and programs. She was the President of Future Leaders of America and held the position of historian of the Class of 2004, for two years. Amanda participated in Class Council and Student Government. She was also involved in FCCLA (Future Career Community
Intricate Art Of Interview By Rajul Punjabi, Campus Editor
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k, so you think you’ve got a sharp resume. You think that you’ve got that dream job in the palm of your hands. Think again. You’re on the right track, but what about when that resume lands you an interview? When searching for your desired position at a company, this is already a real accomplishment, because most employers won’t waste their time meeting with you unless they think you have the potential for success! Now is the opportunity to really show off your skills and qualities that you work so hard to refine. Don’t be nervous – just be prepared. First off, make sure that you have clear directions to the place you will be interviewed if you aren’t already familiar with the area. Nothing makes a worse first impression than a late arrival to an interview. It’s important that your potential boss knows that you are reliable and that you take your responsibilities seriously. Before you walk through that door, make sure that you know your audience. Discuss topics that showcase skills that would help you get the job. For example, if the job is in customer service or sales, describe your communication skills and your motivation to interact with others. Be open minded as well, because you might have to put in more work than you think, but it will be worth it if it helps you advance in your path to career success. Moreover, before conversation starts, let’s not forget that your physical appearance speaks before you even open your mouth to utter a word. For your interview,
make sure you dress professionally and appropriately. Though some jobs may be more formal that others, a pair of dress pants and a crisp button down shirt never hurts, whether you are male or female. If you are serious about getting this job, look the part; you will make a lasting impression. Don’t neglect your powerful personality, though. Ladies, dress conservatively, but let your colors shine through by accenting your suit with a pair of sexy heels. And gentlemen, never underestimate the power of a striking tie to compliment your ensemble. The manner in which you dress will be a reflection of your daily presentation at work and how you will represent the company. Besides, dressing to kill will give your confidence a little jolt as well. Take your time talking and show enthusiasm for your goals as an employee. No one can ignore a winning smile and wealth of intellect. Use your academic and cultural experiences from your years at Kean to have an advantage over the job applicants. Also, have good eye contact and shake the interviewer’s hand firmly. Confidence is essential when holding an important position in any career. Last but not least, take that extra step and send a thank-you note to the person that interviewed you for taking time out of their day. A small gesture like that can go a long way. At a time in life when we have no choice but enter the real world, start off by pursuing a career that you love and your motivation will get you anywhere! Rajul Punjabi, junior English major, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.
Scott Snowden | The Cougar’s Byte Amanda Padilla strives to stay involved despite the fact that she commutes to Kean University.
Leaders of America) and President’s Council. Amanda was Freshman Social
Constance Thomas, sophomore Social Work major minoring in Criminal Justice, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.
Kean University Celebrates Earth Day By Ryan Matthews, Sophomore Meteorology Major
courtesy of the Kean University Geology/Meteorology Department (l-r) Chimaobi Odumuko, Congressman Robert Menendez, Mike Danglovich, Kean University President Dawood Farahi, Lisa Rivieccior, Karen Carlough and Dr. John Dobosiewicz.
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n Friday April 22, Kean students and faculty members went to Elizabeth Marina to celebrate Earth Day. Down at the marina they took a look at our waters and in an effort to learn more about our waters and the environment, our students took samples of water to test. In addition to learning about the waters, boat rides where also made available so that our students could learn more about the land-water relationship. Many students took advantage of this opportunity, had fun and learned a great deal. Accompanying the students was Dr. Dobosiewicz, a professor in Kean University’s Professor of Geology and Meteorology Department. He was there to also learn about the water and to help answer any questions the students might have. Also in attendance for the trip to Elizabeth Marina was Congressman Menendez. He was happy to be there for the students and was glad that they were able to learn about the environment during the trip. Overall, all the participants of the Earth Day celebration had a lot of fun and enjoyed an incredible learning experience. Ryan Matthews, sophomore Meteorology major, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.
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May 3, 2005
How do you express yourself? Kean University is full of talented students who can do more than just balance equations and write term papers. The Cougar’s Byte would love to give these students some exposure by publishing their work. We know that some of you are into photography while others are more lyrically inclined; the possibilities are endless. So, show us what you are passionate about! Send us your artwork, poetry, or anything else you would like to share for a chance to appear in the “Creative Corner” section of The Cougar’s Byte! We are located in Room 215 of the University Center and our e-mail address is cbyte@kean.edu. For any other questions you can reach us by phone at (908) 737-5179.
Shakespeare dreamed
Sean O’Connor
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ean O’Connor grew up in Robbinsville, NJ and graduated Lawrence High School in 2004. He currently is attending Kean University and is unsure about finishing college or focusing more on attempting a writing career. Most of his childhood and teenage years were spent between acting in plays and movies he made by himself and with friends and also writing. He eventually became fully into writing and has written over five unpublished poetry anthologies and three unpublished novellas. Sean aspires to touch the world with his poetry which he is currently putting together into a manuscript to be sent out in hope of being published. He was influenced greatly by The Bee Gees, John Lennon, and Charles Bukowski. Sean’s biggest passions are love, the ocean and cherishing his existence.
I bet you she’s kissing a tree In the woods by her house. She probably just had lunch Maybe a peanut butter sandwich Sitting by the creek Staring at the still water And her feet are playing with the dirt And she’s smiling And it’s raining all over her Tie dye shirt And pants she knit herself Two days ago while she was Singing along to her Simon & Garfunkel CD And she giggles a little bit. She thinks the Earth is making love to her. Let me tell you, This is the girl Shakespeare Dreamed about when he wrote His poems. I’m not sure if William knew it When he penned those sonnets of his That all the Literature folks love but that doesn’t matter.
Creative Corner Logo Design by Tricia Decker, Senior Visual Communications Major
Deep Impact: Shake The World With Your Words By Rajul Punjabi, Campus Editor
I
f you are a writer, whether you are an English major here at Kean or not, what are your goals? You may be a poet, a novelist, or a journalist but the burning passion to express yourself in writing remains the same. Though writing is therapy for many students, it can easily become a career if the writer is organized and focused. But even if you think your material is good enough to get published, where do you start? Here are some tips from a couple of Kean’s gifted and talented members of the English Department.
Writing is an expression from your heart and your mind, to be an addition to your personality before it is to be shared with anyone else. “Writing,” Dr. Rich claims, “is like a Jackson Pollack painting.” For those who are not familiar with the contemporary artist, his paintings are a series of splashes of color, thrown together with a meaning that only Pollack, himself can actually explain. Viewers of his paintings can take them to be very meaningful, but it is because of their own individual understanding of it.
Dr. James Connor, an English Professor at Kean University, as well as an accomplished creative non-fiction author, has had experience in publishing since his undergraduate years. When asked, he says that Kepler’s Witch, released in March of 2004, is his most successful publication to date. This biography of Johannes Kepler, a German astrologist with a scandalous struggle against society, was Connor’s biggest career move, but was not his favorite publication. He favors Silent Fire, a book which Connor says is more about his own spiritual life experiences. Dr. Connor stresses the fact that in order to publish work and acquire a powerful agent, one must understand that the publishing industry is, above all, a business. Agents have the same passion for books as lawyers have for their cases. They are concerned with figuring out how they can sell the most books to the most interested audience. Now, this is spectacular for the financial part of a writer’s career, but writing is above all, an expressive art. And it should always be about the expression, first.
Dr. Rich has had her poetry published in many distinguished compilations, and she has also published a textbook on the art of writing, which she uses for one of her classes. If you are writing a piece that you think you would like to publish, Dr. Rich suggests letting it sit and “marinate” for a good amount of time. Revising is essential in the art of creating a well-written piece of work; a writer should always take the time to get to know a piece of work before they consider it to be done. She also suggests getting a copy of Poets & Writers, a literary magazine that is available at any major bookstore, which is very helpful in offering opportunities to publish work. Dr. Connor also suggests starting small, and contributing work to local literary magazines and newspapers. Once a writer builds a portfolio, it’s easier to show their credentials for graduate school, as well as career opportunities. So, whether you are applying to a writing program to continue your studies, or you just feel that it’s time to share your own experiences with the world, consider this advice from a couple of seasoned professionals and you will be sure to make an impact with your words.
Coincidently, that is the most important piece of knowledge that Dr. Susanna Rich, published poet and writer of the English department, also offered. She says that the core reason for writing should never be to get published.
Rajul Punjabi, junior English major, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.
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Get Fit For Summer—Part Two!
Hangin’ Out With
By Jen Bissu, Senior Feature Editor
S
o the semester’s ending, and summer’s just about here! You know what that means: time to shed that winter flab and get your body fit for the beach, tank tops and short-shorts! Whether you want to lose weight or just need to firm up a bit, these tips will help get you looking and feeling hot in that swimsuit! Here are some more tips to help get you there:
You burn 100 calories per hour sitting, but you burn an extra 40 per hour if you stand up instead. So get up off that chair!
If you work out within 2 hours of eating carbohydrates, you’ll be burning the carbs instead of stored fat. So if you want to get a good fat-burning workout, be sure to cut off your carb intake at least 2 hours before you start your workout! Also, your body keeps its metabolism in high gear even after you’re done exercising. So a great time to eat is within fifteen minutes to an hour after working out; that way, your body is burning the calories you eat at an accelerated rate.
A big important tip—which can be hard at times, but it’s worth it—don’t take in any calories at night (preferably not after 7:30 or 8:00 p.m.). Your body burns stored fat and excess calories while you sleep, but if you feed it too close to bedtime then all you’re burning off is whatever you just ate. What’s the point of that? It’s so worth it to take advantage of that “free” calorie burning. Not to mention, if your metabolism is not super-fast, it’s really easy to put on pounds by eating late at night (you’re giving your body excess calories that it doesn’t need, so whatever it doesn’t use will stay on your hips!).
Remember to KEEP IT MOVING! One of the best things you can do for your body is to keep it in motion. Stop getting to school a half hour early so you can wait for that close parking spot! (I think we all know our school has a problem with this!) Instead, park further away and get some walking in your day. Every little bit helps! Take the stairs instead of elevators, make multiple trips when bringing groceries from your car into the house—no activity is too small. Your body will thank you for it.
The more you exercise, the faster your metabolism becomes! How’s that for a reward for all your efforts!
Hate going to the gym? If you notice you have a habit of conning yourself out of going (it’s too expensive, I don’t feel like getting dressed and going out), then invest in some at-home fitness videos—there are plenty of great ones out on the market now. It’s a wonderful convenience—just pop in the DVD and work it!
STAY MOTIVATED! Imagine how great it will feel when you finally look the way you think you should look. You could wear that outfit you’ve been wishing you could look good in. You’ll look great, feel great. If you work out about 5 days a week and try to be as active as possible, you’ll feel strong and healthy, have more energy, a stronger immune system, and a more positive, cheerful disposition!
RICH ROSSI
By Tiberah Tsehai, Senior Diversity Editor
Tiberah Tsehai | The Cougar’s Byte We’re hanging out with blue eyes b-ball player Rich!
H
angin’ Out will feature one of the infinite faces at Kean University. These are faces you might have passed by but never had the chance to get to know--until now. Brace yourselves as The Cougar’s Byte invites you into the lives of theses faces. Meet Rich Rossi, junior Early Childhood Education major, his favorite movie is ‘Old School’ but there is nothing old school about Rich! Rich likes to listen to hip-hop music, play basketball and just plain relax. He tries to not stay stressed out for the most part. Tiberah Tsehai, senior Communications major with a Broadcast emphasis, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.
Jen Bissu, graduate Fine Art Education major, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.
Third Annual Psi Sigma Phi Charity Ball By Rochelle Trotman, Arts Editor
I
magine cradling your infant child in your arms, while listening to a doctor tell you that she may never speak the words “Mommy” or “Daddy” to you. Imagine that doctor telling you the baby in your arms may never bond with you, and may never even know who you are. Imagine that your child’s pediatrician is telling you that she has autism, a disorder that will inhibit her ability to communicate, respond to surroundings, and form emotional bonds…and as you wait for the doctor to describe a treatment plan or explain the course of the disease you hear a far-off voice explaining to you that there is no cure today and that very little is known about autism and how it will affect your family.
This is the reality for many parents, including Jennifer Love, a volunteer of National Alliance for Autism Research (NAAR), who was invited by Psi Sigma Phi Multicultural Fraternity to speak at their Third Annual Charity Ball this past April 22nd. When one child out of every 166 births is affected by an autism spectrum disorder it is obvious that more research is necessary to discover causes, prevention, courses of treatment, and hopefully a cure for autism. For the entire spring semester, Psi Sigma Phi collected donations for the National Alliance for Autism Research, with the help of Jennifer Love who was on hand to educate
Rochelle Trotman | The Cougar’s Byte (top) The brothers of Psi Sigma Phi and Mr. and Mrs. Love proudly display the check for $1,500 raised to support autism research. (right) Fusion takes center stage with their high energy and hip-hop moves. (bottom-left) Students yell “Encore!” as Kean Dance Theatre performs to “Gasolina” by Daddy Yankee.
students about the disorder her little girl was diagnosed with. The hard work and dedication of the brothers paid off when at the Charity Ball they were able to present a check for $1,500 to Mrs. Love, which will bring families affected by autism one step closer to the answers that they are waiting for. Psi Sigma Phi received the support of many students and Greek-letter organizations in their fundraising efforts. Those attending the Charity Ball enjoyed a night of international cuisine, entertainment and dancing. Both Kean Dance Theater and Fusion performed, receiving thunderous applause from the crowd. The evening ended with the beats of salsa and merengue and for a few
hours students were able to forget that their finals were coming right around the corner. Instead they celebrated the efforts of Psi Sigma Phi, NAAR, Jennifer Love, and all the members of the Kean Community who donated money to see that one day no parent would ever receive the news that their child was autistic. Rochelle Trotman, junior Psychology major, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.
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From Kean To The International Television And Radio Society By Tiberah Tsehai, Senior Diversity Editor
G (IRTS).
seminar was the opportunity to be interviewed by many people. “I know how Human Resources of companies treat new comers,” she said. The seminar also enhanced her understanding of the importance in networking. “Networking is very important, even at Kean, the professors that you have relationships with can later help you in life,” she said.
auddy Velasquez, senior Communications major with an emphasis in Broadcast was selected to participate in a seminar held by the International Radio and Television Society
Gauddy, who is ecstatic in partaking in such an exceptional experience is crossing her fingers and hoping that she lands a job soon. The seminar was brought attention professor Dr. Mirrer during a class. the acting Chair of the Media and Gauddy applied for the IRTS in admitted during spring break.
to Gauddy by her Dr. Mirrer is also Film Department. January and was
“Thirty-two companies were present along with NBC and CBS,” said Gauddy. She was interviewed by more than twenty of those companies and felt the exposure she was given by IRTS was not only prominent but promising as well. “This (IRTS) is the most important organization for television and radio,” she said. “When you belong to one of these organizations, you get to participate in different events that can further you in your prospective career,” she added.
that week. The most important lesson was to follow what she really likes. “A speaker said if you like fashion, don’t start on a show that’s about food…take every opportunity and as little as it is, make it a big deal,” she recalled.
There were many lessons that Gauddy learned within
The best thing that Gauddy walked away with from the
courtesy of Gauddy Velasquez The Kean Gospel Choir takes a break from their hard work to pose for a photo.
Education Students, Listen Up: The Teaching Performance Center Is Here To Help! By Jen Bissu, Senior Feature Editor
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e all know that Kean is best known for its education program, right? Well, there’s an office on campus that really deserve to help! If you have a problem, question, or need help filling out your forms, stop by the office—they’ll be glad to give you a hand. The TPC holds a application meeting for education students every mid-November to review with them the requirements and reate, and graduate degrees. The TPC is really incredible— they place about 1200 students in field experience positions every semester! “We have to focus on two major objectives,” explains Administrative Assistant Pat Klein. “Our greatest concern is serving the students, but at the same time we must maintain a collaboration and positive relationship with all of the districts we deal with.” Half of students’ education requirements for teacher preparation involve actual field experience, so at some point all those students will have to come through the office of the Teaching Performance Center. Fortunately, the TPC staff is friendly, knowledgeable, and eager to help! If you have a problem, question, or need help filling out your forms, stop by the office—they’ll be glad to give you a hand. The TPC holds a meeting for education students every mid-November to review with them the requirements and expectations of the program and of the field, as well as application deadlines and other pertinent information. The inner workings of the TPC are incredibly complex—they even needed to have a special database designed just for their office! “We rely heavily on technology,” explains Assistant Director Cathy Sullivan. The office has many responsibilities, so they need a high-powered system to keep track of everything. The TPC reviews students’ transcripts to ensure that all prerequisites have been met before the semester and
Jen Bissu | The Cougar’s Byte Cathy Sullivan assists fourth-year Elementary Education major Nicole Coleman with her fieldwork forms.
the field experience begin. They work closely with each program coordinator to ensure they are meeting the requirements for each program. The TPC also holds professional development workshops that are pertinent to the field experience for supervisors, cooperating teachers, and students. And—education students, take note of this—the TPC is updating its website to include basic information, forms, and other important information (such as info about the Praxis test which is required for obtaining certification). Check it out: www.kean.edu~tpc. “We want students’ contributions as to what they want on the website,” says Pat Klein. “Since so many students commute, we know they aren’t readily available to come to campus for everything, so we know it’s important to have a good website.” So if you’re an education major, stop by the TPC (located in Willis 110). Director Dr. Mobley and her staff would be happy to help you, advise you, and talk to you about your path to your future career! Jen Bissu, graduate Fine Art Education major, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.
Gauddy, who has only been in America for five years, plans to return to her native home in Venezuela. “I want to be embraced with my family, I miss them a lot,” she said. “United States will always be in my mind as a second home.” She aspires to someday become a fashion reporter; she wants to be a voice for a community as well. “I want to let the community know what is really happening.” Her advice to current broadcast students is to read. “It is the only way to educate yourself and the information stays in your mind.” Understanding that although there are jobs out there in her chosen field and the pay is not that great, it is a chance that Gauddy is willing to take because when you thrive in the broadcasting industry, she knows the rewards are priceless. Tiberah Tsehai, senior Communications major with a Broadcast emphasis, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.
Jazz Meets Poetry By Rajul Punjabi, Campus Editor
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hen someone says the word jazz, people immediately think of the sound of smooth saxophone in a smoky lounge or maybe some old men smoking cigars and singing the blues. This week, Dr. Virgil Mihaiu, professor of Jazz at the prestigious Academia de Muzica Gheorghe Dima in Cluj, Romania added a little bit more meaning to the classic genre of jazz. He presented a program called Words and Sounds; Constance Thomas | The Cougar’s Byte Poetry and Jazz. This program, hosted by the Dr. Virgil Mihaiu shares his world of jazz and English department, was poetry. a great opportunity for Kean students to be exposed to some culture from across the world. This distinguished poet and literary scholar has written many books and has had his work published in periodicals and anthologies all over the world. Dr. Mihaiu’s presentation consisted of pieces of his favorite poetry, some of his own and others of his favorite poets, accompanied by samples of jazz music. The program was held in the Little Theatre, in the University Center during college hour. Before he began his readings, the guest speaker was introduced by Dr. Robert Cirasa, the head of the English Department. After Dr. Mihaiu approached the stage, he began his presentation by giving the audience some insight into what messages he is trying to convey in his work. He described his quest to free poetry from the confines of language so that it could spill into the category of music. The masses except jazz as an English dominated class of music, which is not true. Dr. Mihaiu played many short pieces of music that definitely considered jazz, with the saxophone and choppy piano echoing in the background. But instead of Billie Holiday or Ella Fitzgerald on the vocals, there were lyrics in other languages such as Romanian. Dr. Mihaiu explained the importance of understand the origins of a language to understand the meanings of words and tones. He started his pieces out by playing a clip of jazz music, some containing lyrics and some instrumental. At a point when the music was turned down, he read some lines from the poetry that went along with it. The poetry he read did not rhyme, but instead flowed with the music, its rhythm and tone complementing it. Overall, it was a creative fusion on the art of poetry and exposed the listeners to a new category of performing arts as well as musical expression.
Rajul Punjabi, junior English major, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.
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May 3, 2005
The COUGAR’S Byte
The Washington Center Fetes Kean Political Science Faculty By Joseph G. Aubourg, Senior Political Science Major
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The student evaluation of the political science faculty in the Washington Center Academic Seminars indicated that students admired the faculty for their expertise as well as the way they interacted with the students in an experiential education setting. Dr. Alpert noted that the faculty’s accomplishment “requires considerable talent, patience and love of teaching.” Others cited at the luncheon for their contribution to the
COMPUTER LAB Monday-Thurs. Friday Saturday Sunday
courtesy of the Political Science Department (l-r) Dr.Howard Ruben, Professor Merle Treusch and Dr. Charles Kelly of the Kean University Political Science Department.
Washington Center’s experiential education program were Steve Bell, faculty director of the Academic Seminar Politics and the Media, and formerly News Anchor of ABC TV’s Good Morning America, Bob Schiefer, CBS Evening News Anchor and Congressman Charles Rangel. Joseph G. Aubourg, senior Political Science major, is a contributing writer to The Cougar’s Byte.
By Jonathan Wiggins, Junior Political Science Major
to resolve the crises dealt with in her committee. Such an honor is no stranger to Kean University. This year at the Harvard Model United Nations, Kean took home the outstanding delegate award for student Nasiruddin Mansoor Ahmad as well as winning at least one award in 27 of the 32 years the school has taken part in the Harvard Model UN Program and at least one award in 8 of the 9 years of the Chicago Model U. N.
courtesy of the Political Science Department (l-r) Dr. Charles Kelly, Dr. Howard Rubin, Chioma Sibeudu, Senior Political Science major, Kean University President Dawood Farahi, and Dean Dollarhide of the CAHSS.
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Kean’s delegation consisting of nine students, had the opportunity to participate in a great variety of committees such as the African Union, Chinese Revolution, De Beers Diamond Company, Israeli Cabinet, the United Nations Security Council, Mogul Empire, NATO, Saudi Arabian Cabinet, and even a Major League Baseball owners’ meeting. The work of each committee consisted of a fastpaced crisis simulation, in which student delegates were responsible for drafting resolutions, giving speeches, preparing position papers and forming alliances with other delegates to pass ultimately a
9 am - 11 pm 9 am - 9 pm 10 am - 7 pm 10 am - 10 pm
DOUGALL COMPUTER LAB 24 Hour Lab
Kean Student Receives Recognition For Performance At The Chicago Model UN
he ninth annual session of the Chicago Model United Nations Conference took place this year on March 31st through April 3, 2005 and was hosted by the University of Chicago. As it does every year, Kean University’s Political Science Department, in coordination with the campus Institute for Foreign Service and Diplomacy, sent a group of students to partake in this prestigious event.
University Center INFORMATION DESK P: (908) 737-5222 Monday-Thurs. 6 am - 12 am Friday 6 am - 10 pm Saturday 10 am - 8 pm Sunday 10 am - 11 pm
he Washington Center recognized Drs. Howard Rubin, Charles Kelly and Professor Merle Treusch as faculty who have contributed in exceptional ways to the civic education of students in the Center’s academic programs. The three faculty were invited to the Center’s annual Academic Affairs Award Luncheon at the National Press Club in Washington, D. C. on April 4, 2005. In announcing the awards, Dr. Eugene J. Alpert, Senior Vice President stated that “over the past year, as well as in many previous years, [the Kean faculty] made an outstanding contribution” as faculty leaders. He cited their work in the Center’s academic seminars associated with the two national party conventions and inauguration programs. He declared that the political science faculty “worked exceptionally hard on behalf of not only your own students from Kean University, but also those assigned to your group.”
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resolution. Kean was one of 22 universities, which also included such universities as Harvard, Yale, Stanford, UNC Chapel Hill, and the University of Pennsylvania. In preparation for the conference, the students from the Kean delegation took Seminar in International and Comparative Politics, PS 4400, taught by political science professor, Dr. Charles Kelly. Dr. Kelly provided the students with the knowledge they would need to be successful delegates, teaching them ground rules for negotiations as well as how to become a skillful speakers. This training provided most efficient for Kean students, when Chioma Sibeudu, received “Honorable Mention” recognition for her work representing Botswana in the African Union simulation. Among the awards given in her committee, Chioma was recognized as an exceptional speaker who was able to keep her committee on track and offer valuable arguments
The Institute for Foreign Service and Diplomacy at Kean is a great resource for students who wish to pursue careers in international affairs, diplomacy and other related positions. Program like the Chicago Model U. N. provide a first hand experience and training for such careers as well as a learning background not possible to attain in a classroom. “The training I received at the Chicago Model U.N. was unlike any other. It was fun as well as challenging to partake in such a simulation that really forces you to take on the position you are representing. Everyone becomes so involved it is easy to forget you are part of a simulation and not the real thing,” said Brian Moran, who served on the George Washington Leadership Council in the 2004 Model. Participating students this year included Joseph Aubourg, Nathalia Giraldo, Beatriz Munoz, Yasnery Ramierez, Sarian Samura, Chioma Sibeudu, James Taylor, Andrey Tomashevskiy, and Jonathan Wiggins. Students interested in participating in simulations such as the University of Chicago Model United Nations should contact Dr. Kelly in the political science department at (908) 737-3992 or via email at ckelly@kean.edu. Jonathan Wiggins, junior Political Science major, is a contributing writer to The Cougar’s Byte.
FOR T H E K E A N U N I V E R S I T Y S T U D E N T C O M M U N I T Y
MARKETPLACE Monday-Thurs. Friday BOOKSTORE Monday-Tues. Wednesday Thursday Friday
9 am - 7 pm 9 am - 4 pm P: (908) 737-5230 9 am - 6 pm 9 am - 7 pm 9 am - 6 pm 9 am - 4 pm
CAFETERIA Monday-Thurs. Friday
7:30 am - 7 pm 7:30 am - 3 pm
SNACK BAR Monday-Thurs. Friday Saturday Sunday
11 am - 11 pm 11 am - 9 pm 8 am - 9 pm 11 am - 10 pm
COFFEEHOUSE Monday-Fri. 11:30 am - 3:30 pm Monday-Thurs. 5 pm - 10 pm SANDWICH SHOP Monday-Thurs. Friday Saturday Sunday
11 am - 11 pm 11 am - 9 pm 11 am - 9 pm 11 am - 10 pm
ICE CREAM PARLOR Monday-Friday 12 pm - 8 pm
Hours Extended
To accommodate students’ needs in preparation for final exams and other end-of-the-semester requirements, the Nancy Thompson Library and the Student Technology Lab, located in Room 133, will have extended hours from Monday, April 25, through Monday, May 9, as follows: LIBRARY HOURS Mon-Thurs: 8 a.m. - 2 a.m. Friday: 8 a.m. - 7 p.m. Saturday: 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. Sunday: 1 p.m. - Midnight STUDENT TECHNOLOGY LAB Mon-Thurs: 8 a.m. - Midnight Friday: 8 a.m. - 7 p.m. Saturday: 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. Sunday: 1 p.m. - Midnight
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The COUGAR’S Byte
May 3, 2005
Summer School Blues By Constance Thomas, Diversity Editor
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ow that the semester’s almost over and school is coming to an end, most have started making plans for the summer. Unfortunately, not everyone will be making plans this summer; especially if summer school is in your schedule. For some people this may be the end of the world, for others; almost the end.
time off from school or not enough time off is probably the most dreaded reason many dislike summer school and the reason some people choose not to go. If you had plans to hang out with friends you may have to reschedule. Some of the positive points of summer school are smaller classes and fewer subjects to focus on at one time; which also means less homework. There is also the chance that taking a summer school class “here or there” may help transfer students or you all that may not have put forth your best effort your freshman year and failed a class or two. Summer school gives you the chance to catch up and offers the possibility of even graduating early.
For anyone that has taken summer school classes the experience can be interpreted as both negative and positive. Summer school can be a hindrance and financial strain or an opportunity to advance or catch up. For those of you who have to attend, with no other alternative; it’s up to you to look for the positive or the negative. When you sit down and weigh the pros and cons of summer school the bad, often outweigh the good, depending on what you do in the summer. Summer school can also put a damper on your plans. If you were planning on a long vacation somewhere far you may have to postpone or cancel it if you will be taking classes this summer. If you also had plans to work this summer, for whatever reason you may have to cut back on hours or wait until summer school is over to get a job. Not having
Rich Lemonie | The Cougar’s Byte All around campus, Kean students take time to enjoy the beautiful weather as the semester draws to a close. Walking to or from class, finishing up coursework and papers, studying for finals or just sharing moments with friends, students eagerly await summer break.
With summer and summer school right around the corner, the choice is yours. Remember summer school doesn’t last the entire summer; you can either make it a summer to remember of you can have the summer school blues. Constance Thomas, sophomore Social Work major minoring in Criminal Justice, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.
C O U G A R AT H L E T I C S MEN’S BASEBALL
Overall: 30 - 6 | NJAC: 10 - 3
MEN’S LACROSSE
Overall: 7 - 8 | Knickerbocker: 1 - 5
Thur. April 21
Rutgers-Newark University
W: 9 - 3
Sat. April 23
Stevens Institute of Tech.
L: 22 - 7
Fri. April 22
Ramapo College
W: 9 - 1
Thur. April 28
Farmingdale State Univ.
4pm - Away
Sat. April 23
Richard Stockton College
W: 10 - 1 W: 9 - 5
WOMEN’S LACROSSE Thur. April 21
Wed. April 27
College of Staten Island
W: 9-11
Thur. April 28
Manhattanville College
3:30pm - Home
Fri. April 29
Ramapo College
3:30pm - Home
Sat. April 30
Rowan University
12pm - Away
Wed. May 4
NJAC Playoffs First Round
TBA - TBA
Fri. May 6
NJAC Playoffs
TBA - TBA
Sat. May 7
NJAC Playoffs
TBA - TBA
WOMEN’S SOFTBALL
W: 11-1
Overall: 15 - 20 | NJAC: 4 - 10
Thu. April 21
DeSales University
L: 7 - 3 W: 13 - 3
Fri. April 22
Baruch College
W: 11 - 1 W: 12 - 0
Mon. April 25
Ramapo College
L: 6 - 5
Thur. April 28
FDU - Florham
3pm - Home
Sat. April 30
Montclair State University
1pm - Home
Thur. May 5
NJAC Playoffs
TBA - TBA
Fri. May 6
NJAC Playoffs
TBA - TBA
Overall: 10 - 6 | Knickerbocker: 2 - 2
FDU - Florham
W: 10 - 6
Sat. April 23
Centenary College
W: 14 - 0
Wed. April 27
Knickerbocker Tournament L: 19 - 4 #2 Montclair State University
TRACK AND FIELD Sat. May 14
St. John’s Classic @ St. John’s University
TBA - Away
Thur. May 19
ECAC Division III Champ. @ Springfield College (Mass.)
TBA - Away
Fri. May 20
ECAC Division III Champ. @ Springfield College (Mass.)
TBA - Away
Thur. May 27
NCAA Division III Champ. @ Wartburg College (Iowa)
TBA - Away
Fri. May 28
NCAA Division III Champ. @ Wartburg College (Iowa)
TBA - Away
L: 10 - 5
For more information please visit www.keanathletics.com
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