Kean University - The Cougar's Byte - September 12, 2005 by The Cougar's Byte

Volume 2 • Issue 2

A Student Life & Leadership Development Publication for the Kean University Student Community September 12, 2005

Unwrapping Hopes for the New School Year

A Universal Welcome

By Rajul Punjabi, Senior Diversity Editor

round this time of year, everywhere you go on campus, someone is rushing off to some kind of orientation program. It’s the perfect time to get familiar with the people you will be around as well as the programs and resources your University has to offer. The first of the orientations, held on the evening of September 6th was EPIC, which is the Entry Program Into College, an organization of adult students who are entering as undergraduates. Since these students are non-traditional, they

Rich Lemonie | The Cougar’s Byte

New students, Frank Pressley and Jihad Springer check out The Cougar’s Byte during a break at the New Student Orientation.

Rich Lemonie | The Cougar’s Byte

Wanting to learn more about student life at Kean, Kristina Gibson, freshman Political Science major, picks up The Cougar’s Byte.

pening Week is a busy one here is changing and the needs of students grow, at Kean University. Between all “we must change with it in a bold way.” the orientations and move-ins, He invited everyone to bring their families there’s hardly any time to sit and get involved in Kean’s Homecoming, down and plan the upcoming academic year. which is October 15th, and will boast lots of So, we sat back and let our University’s food, fun and games. Dr. Farahi expressed President, Dawood Farahi, help us get the importance of getting the full college motivated by giving his opening address to experience out of Kean, and learning life the students, staff and faculty last Tuesday lessons from outside the classroom. When in the brand new Harwood Arena. President the topic of the overpopulated parking lots Farahi started out by came up, Dr. Farahi welcoming everyone asked for our patience back in hopes for a and consideration, prosperous semester. but promised that a As the world changes After introducing his deck would and the needs of students parking associates and the be built. contributors for the grow, we must change building, he went Many of the students, with it in a bold way. on to remind us all faculty and staff of the main goal of left the arena with a ~ President Farahi the University – to sense of enthusiasm keep it affordable for the upcoming and accessible to all who want to reap the academic year. With increases in the budget, benefits of higher learning. Rise in tuition expanded faculty, and new parking on the was lower this year, and Kean University way, this year hopes to be a promising and is still the most affordable public or private successful one. university in New Jersey. He proudly Rajul Punjabi, senior English major, is a member referred to the 40 new professors that were of The Cougar’s Byte staff. hired this year and wished them success in their journey at their new home. Dr. Farahi spoke about new advancements and programs on campus, as well as the new Health and Wellness Center, which was custom designed to fit the needs of the growing university with a strong athletics department. He claimed that as the world

Parking Information for Fall 2005 Rich Lemonie | The Cougar’s Byte

Eager to find out what’s going on, Makeemah Smith, Elementary Education, Sherell Rameau, Communications, and Naim Chisolm, Criminal Justice, read The Cougar’s Byte. Get caught reading The Cougar’s Byte and get your picture prominently displayed on the front page.

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lease note that all faculty and staff members must display a valid Kean University parking sticker in their vehicles in order to park on campus. To obtain a parking sticker, visit the Office of Student Accounting in the Administration Building on the third floor. Please review the following parking guidelines, effective immediately: 



Faculty and staff may park in parking spaces divided by yellow or white lines. Students may park only in spaces marked by white lines. SEE ‘PARKING’ ON PAGE 7

Rich Lemonie | The Cougar’s Byte

often have family and work commitments to keep that go beyond those of traditional college students, so this program helps them stay focused and provides the guidance they might want. There were a handful of speakers that at all the orientations to explain basic information about the university, as well as couple of others who specialize in services for SEE ‘ORIENTATION’ ON PAGE 4

Legendary Times By Tiberah Tsehai, Assistant Editor

ood food, good music and good people with little kids running about. It had all the settings of a family function, perhaps a family reunion. Sponsored by Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, the 12th annual EEO (Exceptional Educational Opportunities) barbeque took place on a hot and humid August 4th. DJ Nix in the Mix unruffled the crowd by playing songs that took the high temperature off their mind. President of Student Organization, Chimaobi Odumuko, made an appearance and if students did not know him then, they do now. More than just a barbeque, rather it was a celebration. Kwaku Ofori, an EEO student and an Iota, reminded us that Joseph Armstead and Horace Jackson, EEO students and Iota brothers conceived the notion to have a barbeque as a way of showing the infinite jubilation they carried for EEO and Ms. Baker. That was twelve years ago and “…ever since then it has been going on.” Ofori graduated Kean May 2005 with a Bachelors degree in Graphic Communication Management and will be pursuing his Masters in January.

Tiberah Tsehai | The Cougar’s Byte This year, the brothers of Iota Phi Theta Fraternity celebrated their 12th annual EEO picnic.

Some of the things the barbeque featured included various step shows from Iota Phi Theta and Omega Sigma Psi, a basketball tournament as well as a freethrow contest. Sophomore Anthony Onyeagoro, also known as ‘hot sauce’ took home the trophy for the free-throw contest. “It feels good to come out here, have a good time, and to get a trophy for doing what I love to do,” he said. While EEO students were relaxing at the barbeque SEE ‘PICNIC’ ON PAGE 8

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The COUGAR’S Byte

W e at h e r O u t l o o k For updated forecasts visit http://hurri.kean.edu/~keancast.

Monday, September 12, 2005 Hi: 88 LO: 59 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 Mondays 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; and Vaughn Eames Lobby. 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 Editors Laura Pointon Tiberah Tsehai

Tues. 9/13

Wed. 9/14

HI: 90

HI: 89

HI: 86

LO: 66

LO: 68

LO: 65

Fri. 9/16

Sat. 9/17

Features Jen Bissu, Senior Editor Staff Writers Angela Barrett Kaitlyn Davies Multimedia Editor Rich Lemonie Circulation Manager Ryan Matthews Student Media Managing Editor Toni M. Cerbo

Sun. 9/18

HI: 80

HI: 76

LO: 62

LO: 59

LO: 55

Kean University American Meteorological Society/National Weather Association

Constitution Day at Kean By Rajul Punjabi, Senior Diversity Editor

side from the required history class we take at school, when do we ever really think about the Constitution? Well, September 21 is Constitution Day here at Kean University. As a state-mandated requirement, members of the faculty and staff will be hosting a program to explain its importance and increase awareness of this document of freedom. Kean prides itself in being a mosaic of races and cultures, and that’s all the more reason to recognize the Constitution as the symbol of freedom and justice that bonds us together. The program itself will be held in the Center for Academic Success, room 106 on September 21, from 3:30-5:00 pm (college hour). The main faculty members who will be hosting the event are Frank Esposito, Robert Hunt, Rebecca Fields, and Mark Lender, the Kean Historian. They will all be involved in expressing the significance of the Constitution as related to Americans, but more specifically, to you – the college student. Mark Lender explains, “This is a document that has always had an impact on society and will, for many generations to come.” So not to let students think it will be a boring history lesson, he urges them to understand that the program won’t be focusing on the original document at the time it was written, but instead how it is a milestone that we can look at today to reflect on our accomplishments as well as what we can overcome in the future. Constitution Day is part of the Fall schedule at many higher learning institutions, hoping to make the program fun, while conveying the importance of the content of the United States Constitution. Aside from the academic significance, the program coordinators are hoping to help students get an understanding of America’s struggles because we, as a country cannot get ahead unless we know where we came from. Rajul Punjabi, senior English major, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.

Arts Rochelle Trotman, Editor Diversity Rajul Punjabi, Senior Editor

Thurs. 9/15

September 12, 2005

Boy Gets Girl Courtesy of University Relations

his September, Premiere Stages, the professional Actors’ Equity Association (AEA) theatre program at Kean University, will conclude its inaugural 2005 theatre season with the New Jersey professional premiere of Boy Gets Girl by acclaimed playwright Rebecca Gilman. Gilman’s stellar play takes the game of romantic pursuit to a terrifying level as it tells the story of a blind date that goes horribly wrong. Theresa, a talented young writer, quickly discovers that Tony, the charming young man courting her, is actually a psychopathic monster. Her efforts to escape his grasp take the audience on a heart-pounding ride that is as frightening as it is powerful. The production is being produced as part of a new partnership between Premiere Stages and the Kean University Department of Theatre. This unique collaboration provides Kean students with first-hand experience working in the professional theatre. Boy Gets Girl will run at Kean University’s Wilkins Theatre, located at 1000 Morris Avenue in Union, N.J., Thursdays through Saturdays from September 15 to 24, at 8 p.m. Matinees will be held on September 18 and 23 at 2 p.m. The September 18 matinee will be audio-described for any hearing-impaired patrons who attend. Ticket prices range from $15 to $25 and special group rates are available for parties of 10 or more. Premiere Stages is produced in part from support from the New Jersey State Council on the Arts and the Geraldine R. Dodge Foundation. Located on the Kean University campus, Premiere Stages offers affordable prices, air-conditioned facilities and free parking in close proximity to the theatre. To order tickets, please call the Wilkins Theatre Box Office at 908-737-SHOW (7469) or visit www.kean.edu/premierestages online.

Campus Recreation and Intramurals

elcome back to Kean for a year of competition and fun! The first week at Kean is always a busy one - learning your way around, attending those first classes, purchasing books & supplies, and getting to know your surroundings. Now do yourself a favor and make time to come out to the Recreation Department to sign up for intramurals! What a great way to make some new friends and have fun! Intramural games will be what participants make of them. You will get out as much as you put in. Come out and register for Outdoor Volleyball, Flag Football, Singles/Doubles Tennis Tournament, Dodgeball, 3 on 3 Basketball, Pingpong Tournament and more. Sign up dates are different for all events, so visit www.cougarsbyte.com and click on the “Got Game” banner for more information. Sign ups are located outside of East Campus room 104. You must be a current Kean student to participate. For additional information about intramurals, call Jay Sgaramella at (908) 737-5803 or check out their calendar on www.cougarsbyte.com.

Best Way to Seize the Day By Rajul Punjabi, Senior Diversity Editor

icture this: it’s Thursday evening and you’re in class on the fist floor of Hutchinson. As you stare out the window, you notice it’s getting dark and the professor has been going on about Freud’s theories for two hours straight without even taking a second to breathe. You look over to your right and the guy sitting next to you is sleeping peacefully, his head leaning against the window, and his mouth hanging wide open. You feel like joining him in slumber, but it’s not worth the drop in your GPA if you fail this class. So what do you do? If you find yourself in this position at school sometimes, there is a way to help you keep more alert and focused on the information you are being given. It’s going to take some effort, but no one ever said being on Dean’s List would be easy.

“I only need a couple hours of sleep as long as I have my coffee!” The fact is, coffee is not a miracle and it can only do so much for you before you start to crash. Moreover, the caffeine in the coffee actually may prevent you from getting to sleep at night and getting a good night’s rest is essential to having enough energy during the day. Don’t let yourself get into that cycle! Limit yourself on the coffee and eat healthy snacks during the day to keep your energy up. And when it comes to your lunch break, be aware that certain foods like chicken and turkey contain a chemical called Tryptophan, which is an amino acid. Eating foods containing Tryptophan raise the levels of serotonin produced in the body, which increase a person’s feeling of sleepiness (That’s why you always end up napping on the couch after Thanksgiving dinner).

If you do see someone dozing off in class, chances are that he or she was not wellprepared for their day. Let’s face it, between work, school, and family obligations, there’s hardly enough time to plan a meal, let alone perfect your whole schedule. The best thing to do is start slow; think about the most basic thing – which is sleep. So many people say,

And here’s another reason to quit smoking – the nicotine in cigarettes is a stimulant and may be causing you difficulty falling asleep when you want to. Keeping alert and energetic throughout the day can be achieved with just the right amount of sleep and nourishment. For help creating a heavenly sleep environment, you must first recognize

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your bed as a place that is only for sleep. This means, don’t do your homework or pay bills or even eat in bed. This will only push you away from associating your bed as a place for rest and tranquility. If you do have trouble sleeping, establish a pre-sleep ritual to relax yourself. Sleep specialists suggest listening to soft music to relax your mind or take a warm bath. The bath will temporarily increase your body temperature, which will make you want to crawl into bed and drift into dreamland. Also, dinner is a more appropriate time for eating foods with Trytophan in it – it can help you get to a more relaxed mental state. Last but not least, make sure your bedroom is a comfortable temperature and there are no noises that will deter you from sleeping. If you make a conscious effort to get the right amount of sleep, your days will be filled with energy and you won’t have to worry about waking up at the end of class with a paper stuck to your face! Rajul Punjabi, senior English major, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.

September 12, 2005

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Building the Foundation for Success By Rajul Punjabi, Senior Diversity Editor

o be successful in college and in a career field, students have to start early. A lot of high school students today are taking initiative and trying to get ahead of the game by taking part in precollege programs such as Project Adelante. This program is a union between four school districts, (Perth Amboy, Passaic, Elizabeth, Plainfield), the New Jersey Commission on Higher Education, and is proudly housed at Kean University. As you might already know, this college bound program exists in hopes to guide bilingual students toward pursuing a higher education. Along with the great academic encouragement these young adults receive, they are exposed to a positive atmosphere with advisors and teachers that help them embrace their culture as well as build a foundation for a bright future! If you weren’t aware that we hosted a program like this at Kean, now you can consider contributing your experiences! If you are a Spanish-speaking student, you can you can drop by the Adelante Headquarters in the East campus at anytime and ask for information on how you can volunteer or apply for a position where you can offer your expertise. Project Adelante hosts classes on the main campus five days a week during the summer months as well as Saturday classes

during the Fall and Spring semesters. The wonderful thing about this program is that the students chosen for it attend classes and trips free of charge. Though they can only recruit a limited amount, it is a great opportunity to be able to expose them to the choices that they will be soon making so they will be well prepared. During the summer, some of the field trips include a tour of a college or university in New Jersey; this way, many of the students can get an idea of what they are interesting in pursuing after high school. Though we have introduced Project Adelante before, their leaders try to make advances every year, in order to better the program and give more to their incoming students. This year, instead of being isolated in the East Campus, the program will hold classes (math, science, English, and technology) on the main campus as well, allowing students to get maximum exposure to college life. So, if you are interested in being a tutor or offering your services to Adelante, you drop an email to adelante@kean.edu or give Yvette Sencion, the Program Assistant a call at (908) 737-5980. Rajul Punjabi, senior English major, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.

GEAR UP Paves the Way! By Tiberah Tsehai, Assistant Editor

Kean University full-time undergraduate and graduate students are now eligible to receive a rail, bus, or light rail monthly pass at 25% off of the regular monthly pass price, when they enroll online through NJ TRANSIT’s Quik-Tik program. QuikTik offers the convenience of auto-pay combined with online account management. You will receive your student monthly pass directly through the mail and your credit card automatically billed. New Users, it is important to remember: ■ You must sign up by the 10th of the month to receive your monthly pass for the travel in the next month. For a September monthly, please be sure to sign up by August 10. ■ After you enroll for Quik-Tik, you will receive a new monthly pass in the mail each and every month unless you choose to suspend your account. ■ If you choose to suspend your monthly pass (for example during winter break), you will need to reactivate your account once again through our secure keanWISE (this will verify enrollment). Getting started is easy. To initially sign up, you must login through keanWISE then click on Discount Ticket for Full Time Students. Your full-time student status will be verified electronically to NJ TRANSIT. When you sign up the price of the monthly pass you order will automatically reflect the 25 percent student discount. During your enrollment, you will create a “Quik-Tik user name and password,” so you can view or manage your account directly from the NJ TRANSIT Quik-Tik login without entering from our university site. To contact Quik-Tik, call 866-QUIK-TIX. Existing Quik-Tik Users If you are an existing Student QuikTik customer, all you need to do is reactivate your account. Here’s how: 1. Log into to keanWise and click on the NJ Transit Discount for Fulltime students (the page where you initially went to enroll).

ould you imagine how different your college career would be had you explored what you wanted to major in when you were in the seventh grade? Do you think you would have the same major? Located on the first floor of Willis, GEAR UP, Gaining Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs is changing the way students prepare for college.

Discounted NJ Transit Passes

2. You will be taken the NJ TRANSIT’s Quik-Tik main page. Enter requested information. 3. You are now at the “Account Summary” page. Scroll to the bottom to see your status information. 4. Click on “Change Status.” 5. Click on “Reactivate previously suspended monthly pass mailing” and click on the submit button.

courtesy of GEAR UP From left Sinclair Powell, Engineer from Kraft Foods, Ivonne Barreras, Executive Coordinator for GEAR UP, Johnaton Griffor, Engineer from Verizon Wireless, and Thomas A. Cruz-Soto, Jr., Director of GEAR UP, show off in the go-carts constructed by GEAR UP students.

GEAR UP is giving students who are in the seventh, eighth grade, or in high school and are serious about college a chance to explore it. The goal of GEAR UP is to academically prepare lowincome middle and high school students for post-secondary education.

Thomas Cruz, Director of the GEAR UP program at Kean University tells us that Kean students can be involved in impacting the lives of these students. “Second semester freshmen and up can apply to be a mentor for GEAR UP.” This past summer there were over thirty Kean University students who served as mentors. What is the type of services GEAR UP provides? GEAR UP has a five week summer program from June thru July. During those months, students live on campus and are given a long schedule. Their day begins at eight thirty in the morning and ends at eight at night. “I wanted to make sure they were busy and received a true understanding of what it takes to earn a college degree.” said Cruz. From late September up until the end of May GEAR UP offers after school and Saturday programs. “The SAT’s and college readiness are the main focus.” As well as recommendation letters from their guidance counselors or teachers, students need “the will to do better.” Cruz said he expects a lot from the students that participate in this program. “We will accept a D student if that student has a will to become a B student and then we will show that student how to earn A’s.” Our main goal is to insure that all GEAR UP students not only go on to college, but they become positive

role models and leaders in the communities they reside and beyond. GEAR UP challenges their students in unique ways. One of them was by having students assemble race cars. This would test their math skills as well as other things. Students had to cut wood, test their measurements, learn about weight, velocity, mass, friction, gravity, and inertia. The student had to pass a pre / post test to qualify to build the race cars. On April 20, 2005, Over 120 students raced for the King of the Hill Crown in Carteret, New Jersey. Next year students will study water and air pressure by building several boats using recycled plastic bottles and duct tape. Students will race these boats at Kean University in the Spring. While becoming aware of college at such an early age might sound a little confounded, Cruz advised that seventh grade is the accurate time when students should be aware of it. “The earlier we start motivating a child towards a college degree the better chance that child will have on truly obtaining all their academic goals.” Fore more information on GEAR UP, please visit Willis room 121. You can also reach GEAR UP at (908) 737-4155. Tiberah Tsehai, ‘05, B.A. Broadcast Communication, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.

After your account is reactivated, you will again receive monthly passes each month on an automatic basis until next May. You must enter Quik-Tik from keanWise to reactivate your account. If you have any questions regarding reactivating your account, please contact us at 1-866-QuikTik.

CPTS Lounge By Rajul Punjabi, Senior Diversity Editor

all is here and the joys of evening classes are in full effect. We’re talking about the parking wars, cranky students in class during dinnertime, and professors that are ready to call it a day. There’s not much you can do about the professors but the best thing you can do about parking is get to school as early as you can. And especially for all of you part time students who have full time jobs, it’s essential to use every minute of your time wisely. When you do get to campus early, come and enjoy the benefits of the CPTS Student Lounge, located on the first floor of Hutchinson, Room 130.

courtesy of CPTS Come unwind in the CPTS Student Lounge - the perfect place to make the transition between a long day of work and a long night of class.

This lounge, which is fullystaffed, is a great place to relax before or after class, as well as get your homework done in an academically supportive atmosphere. Plus, there’s no better way to find a buddy to do your homework with or even complain about the next week’s midterm. Also, information about Kean’s programs as well as course bulletins are always available here so it’s a great place to catch up on anything you’re missing. The lounge opened

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back up the first day of classes and the hours are from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 9 a.m. to noon on Saturdays, so drop by to relax or just get a head start on a busy evening!

Rajul Punjabi, senior English major, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.

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Orientation

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September 12, 2005

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part-time and non-traditional students. President of the Alumni Association at Kean, Ed Esposito, expressed the importance of campus involvement to students as he urged them to “get involved – there is so much more to college than classes.” Many of the students took notes and asked questions about how they can take advantage of the opportunities that were being offered. When asked what the most appealing aspect of coming to Kean this semester, one student, Marion Jones answered, “I am looking forward to the trips and events that are offered.” The next afternoon was the main event – New Student Orientation. There were a mixture of students swarming all over campus, some in white t-shirts and some in blue. The ones with the blue t-shirts were the guides and peer liaisons that were touring the campus with their assigned groups, showing them the ropes and offering advice on everything from books to parking. After all the speakers and the entertainment in the Wilkins Theatre, students were let out to enjoy lunch, music and a little mingling with their new class of 2009. Many were discussing what they are looking forward to during the start of their college careers. One student, Brian Coleman, commented, “I want to meet and interact with a lot of people, and get all the new experiences while I’m here,” while another student, Reem Saadeh, hopes to better herself in another field – “I’m looking forward to the softball season and meeting my teammates,” she says.

Rich Lemonie | The Cougar’s Byte (top) Relonda McDougald, Public Administration major takes notes during EPIC Orientation. (top left) Plenty of questions are asked and answered during EPIC Orientation. (left) Graduate students collect materials before entering Orientation. (bottom) Renata Lech, Counselor of Education major, reviews information while she waits for Graduate Orienation to begin.

After all that, you would think that the administrators and directors would get a break from speaking, but there was yet another orientation that evening. In the University Center Little Theatre, there was the Graduate Student Orientation, which was similar to the others, with the exception of involvement of the Deans of many of the Graduate school departments. Dr. Farahi got a great response from the crowd as he joked about the parking situation and congratulated the students for getting so far in their college careers. Other speakers included Provost/Vice President of Academic Affairs, Vinton Thompson and Dr. Kristie Reilly, Dean of the Nathan Weiss Graduate College. The rest of the evening ran similarly to the other orientations, introducing programs and guidance to the students. At the closing of every program, the same message was conveyed, urging students to take full advantage of the resources offered and to ask for help with anything they might need to gain success at Kean.

Rajul Punjabi, senior English major, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.

Fresh Faces at Kean By Rich Lemonie, Multimedia Editor

ove over and make room, the Class of 2009 has made a new home here at Kean. It was a beautiful warm sunny day on September 6, 2005 and it couldn’t have been more perfect for the new batch of students arriving here at Kean. With their families in tow, they waited on a line outside Downs Hall, which stretched as far back as the

Rich Lemonie | The Cougar’s Byte (top) Freshmen students wait to check in and begin their on-campus experience. (left) (l-r) Vanessa Cruz, Jennifer Yee, and Amy Amin take a break and relax during Freshmen move-in. (right) A student reads The Cougar’s Byte while waiting to check in to her residence hall and move her belongings.

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Library, to sign-in and receive the keys to their new home away from home. With the thoughtful help from the Greek Organizations, who aided the freshmen with their belongings and tents set up with bottles of water and chips as a refreshing snack, generously provided by Resident Student Association; it made the transition for the new students a lot more pleasurable. Rich Lemonie, senior Fine Arts Photography major, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.

September 12, 2005

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Lollanobooza

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It’s More Fun When You Remember What You’ve Done!

One Great Night By Ryan Matthews, Circulation Manager

he 2nd annual LollaNObooza was a giant success last Wednesday, September 7, 2005 here in Cougar Country. The night started off with students filing into the campus, coming out from the resident halls and even from their homes; they weren’t even coming here to go to class, but to have fun. There were many things to do this year. The “Kean Strip” was filled with numerous activities, such as many students who got to make their own music video on the Dougall Hall patio, where you get to choose the song and then dance and sing to it while being filmed like a rock star. There was tons of free food, with the BBQ that kicked off the night of fun in the new Reflections Garden. Snacks, like freshly popped popcorn and sweet cotton candy were given out by Resident Life. Ice cream was passed out to everyone, courtesy of Greek Senate. One of the biggest events that night was the dance contest in front of the clock tower, which got a lot of the students pumped to show off their moves and grooves on the stage. Although it wasn’t on the schedule of events, a fun filled game of volleyball was started across from the basketball courts where the group Fusion performed one of their awe inspiring dance performances. LollaNObooza was a great way to kick off the fall semester for all the new and old students. Can’t wait to do it again next year! Ryan Matthews, junior Meteorology major, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.

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Residence Life Staff Announced The Office of Residence Life would like to congratulate and welcome back their new and returning Resident Assistants for the Fall 2005 semester. Najah Abdallah Ashante Barnes Derek Barton-Odro Aleasha Brooks Victoria Chipepo Ricky Cordero Julia DeDomick Stanley Duclervil Danielle Epps

Nicole Hall Tariq Hamami Shalumiel Hill Nichelle Hinton Demetress Holmes Olabisi Isijola Steven Koenigstein Gabrielle Mahar Ryan Mathews

Jennifer Murtha Iris Negron Kush Parikh Antonio Parrales Khushboo Patel Maria Perez Leenel Ramesar Linda Raoul Isabel Rivera

Steven Salib Sameemah Shakir Scott Snowden Michael Torres Theodora Tribie Robert Walsh Michelle White

The Residence Hall Directors are LaTysha Gaines, Waffiyah Saleem, Kerrin Lyles, Jennifer Witt, and John Resto.

Political Science Department Panel

he Kean University Political Science Department and the M. A. Program in Political Science are pleased to sponsor the first in a series of Fall ’05 forums on a variety of international, national, and state issues: The Constitution, the Supreme Court, and the Nomination Process: Prospects and Possibilities. The panel will be a roundtable discussion of the impact of two U. S. Supreme Court vacancies on the court’s future and on its interpretation of the U. S. Constitution. It is co-sponsored by the Kean University History Department as part of its recognition of Constitution Day at Kean. The participants will be Professor Maria Hernandez, Dr. Robert Hunt, Dr. Gilbert Kahn, Dr. Howard Rubin and Professor Merle Treusch. The panel will be held on Wednesday, September 21, from 11:00 a.m. – 12:20 p.m. in Hutchinson Hall, room 100. All interested students are invited to attend.

$cholarships Westfield Volunteer Rescue Squad Scholarships

Are you a NJ Certified EMT? Is Your GPA 2.5 or above? Do you need $2500 in Scholarship Money? If you answered YES to these 3 questions, the Westfield Volunteer Rescue Squad Needs YOU!!! A renewable $2,500 annual scholarship is available to Kean students who are New Jersey certified EMTs and have a GPA of 2.5 or above.Help a great community organization while earning money towards your tuition. It’s a win-win situation!!! Recipients of the scholarship must commit to one duty shift of four hours per week for a calendar year. Recipients must also maintain their GPA and full-time enrollment to qualify each academic year. Contact Nina Sumilang, Scholarship Coordinator at (908)737-7053 or via email at nsumilan@kean.edu.

Got Ice? By Rajul Punjabi, Senior Diversity Editor

o you have ICE on your cell phone? No, we’re not talking about diamonds; ICE stands for In Case of Emergency. It’s an entry for the contacts in your cellular phone, and it holds the name and phone number of someone that emergency services could call on your behalf, if there is ever a need. Safety is always an important issue and taking the proper precautions can help save a life. Things like self defense classes, proper smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in your house or dorm are important, but this is another precaution you can take that could save you one day. It sounds like something you don’t want to

even think about, but in case you are involved in any kind of accident, paramedics will turn to your cell phone first for clues on your identity. They know what ICE means and they look for it immediately – it could save them a lot of time and have your loved ones contacted as quickly as possible. It only takes a few moments of your time and it could make you have control over at least one thing in an emergency. So, ICE your cell phone now; though it won’t be as expensive as adding diamonds, the difference it could make is priceless. Rajul Punjabi, senior English major, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.

Buy a Raffle Ticket and Support the American Heart Association Shiseido American Inc. has generously donated a gift basket of high quality skin care products valued at $500.00. Tickets will be sold for $1.00 and all monies raised will be donated to the American Heart Association. Tickets will be available: September 12, 13, & 14, 2005 from 5 pm to 9 pm in the Reflections Garden at 5 pm and then at the CAS Building at twilight; September 28, 2005 – Campus Awareness Day – from 1pm-3pm in the University Center, Room 226. October 18, 2005 – Vaccine Day – from 11am-6pm in the University Center, Room 226. Tickets will also be available at Health Services located in Downs Hall, Room 126. Should you have any questions, please contact Health Services at (908) 737-4880.

September 12, 2005

Pride Bowl XXVII The little Army-Navy game comes to Kean’s Alumni Stadium, Sunday, October 2, 2005. The fun begins with a stirring parade of Navy midshipmen and Army cadets at 1:00pm as Pride Bowl XXVII kicks off at Kean University Alumni Stadium. This year, the legendary Army/Navy rivalry plays out as the sprint teams meet on the field for kickoff at 2:07pm to benefit Project Pride and support the youth of Newark. Show that you care while you enjoy a great family day of football and fun, all to support Newark youth: College Scholarships; Advanced science and reading classes; SAT prep classes; Afterschool recreation. Tickets are $10 for Kean students and $15 for general admission. For complete ticket information, call 973-483-6900.

Performing Arts 2005-2006 Stop by the University Center Little Theatre between 2:30-5:30 pm on Monday, September 12, 19, or 26, and take advantage of the Performing Arts in Cougar Country. The Department of Theatre Management and Programming will have brochures and informational pamphlets for the Performing Arts 2005-2006 season available, as well as provide answers to questions regarding events, theatre locations and student discounts. As a special promotion, when you stop by you’ll have the opportunity to sign up for 2 complimentary vouchers for select performances at one of several theatres on campus. Don’t miss this wonderful opportunity to learn about the Performing Arts Series and the affordable access to high quality culturally diverse programs to students of all ages at Kean University.

New Locations Department/Office Old Location New Location Library Services...................................... EC-249...................................N.T. Library PT3.......................................................... W102......................................J102 Spanish Speaking Program..................... J310........................................J106; J103 Center for Earth Science......................... EC221....................................Science Bldg 3rd Fl. Project Adelante...................................... EC106 & 220.........................J101; J103 CARAS Grant Office.............................. EC207....................................J310 Project RITE/CIMS................................ EC223 & 248.........................W303A & 303B Union County Alliance........................... EC243....................................W303C & 303E Accounting Department.......................... W203......................................W305C & 305E-305K NJ Council on Eco. Ed............................ EC219 & 107.........................W307 DCA Grant Office................................... EC 207...................................T-106 Management Science.............................. W403E, 405, 415...................W401 KUAFF................................................... EC226....................................W102 Marketing................................................ W403E, 405, 415...................W409 Math/Sci. Lab-C.E.................................. EC201....................................W207 & 209 Small Business Dev. Center.................... EC242....................................W301 & 311 NJ Professional Dev. Center................... EC 204, 221, 225...................W300 & 307C Athletics & Recreation............................ EC 104, 104A, 124, 127,........WF08 & WF15, WF19, 144, 145, 150, 153, 154, WF20; WF107 & 107A 155, 156 WF205, 206; W216-227 WF232 & 233 E.C. Admin./Student Conduct................. EC101....................................UC315 Phys.Ed./Rec/Health............................... D130.......................................WF202; 208-212; 214, 215; 228 & 229 Disability Services.................................. UC315....................................Downs Hall/ Counseling Center Community Service................................ UC315....................................Whiteman Hall

Travelearn to Russia Program

January 9-16, 2005

xperience the culture, history, aesthetics, art, music, and drama that form the literary backdrop of Moscow and St. Petersburg during Kean’s 36th annual Travelearn to Russia. Museums, cathedrals, a midnight train ride, and more . . . it all adds up to an action-packed eight-day adventure. While visiting two European cities, you’ll be astonished by the many things to do, places to go, and people to meet. It’s an experience that will stay with you forever. Round trip Finnair coach airfare, hotel accommodations, rail transportation, sightseeing tours of Moscow and St. Petersburg, breakfast and dinner daily, baggage porterage, travel insurance, and visa fees are included in the program cost of $2,260.00. A nonrefundable deposit of $200.00 is due by September 19, 2005. Contact the faculty coordinator, Dr.

V isit o u r onl ine e d ition at w w w.cou garsb y te . com

Robert Fyne, by phone at 908-737-0384 or in Center for Academic Success, Room 229 to sign up. For additional information, contact the Center for International Studies in Willis 402B or by phone at 908-737-4181, or visit www.kean.edu/ifsd/pages/russia.html.

September 12, 2005

The COUGAR’S Byte

Monday, September 12

Wednesday, September 14

Theatre Auditions Auditions for “Sideman” and “The Servant of Two Masters”. Copies of the script are available in the Theatre Department office, Vaughn Eames 409. Contact Holly Logue by email: hlogue@kean.edu, phone: (908) 7374420, or stop by her office in VE 409.

Welcome Back BBQ Student Organization of Kean University, Inc. invites you to bring your Cougar ID for free grub, music and more behind the UC by the basketball courts from 1pm-5pm.

Welcome Back Week Grab some snacks and explore Kean in the CPTS Reflections Garden from 5pm 6pm and again in the Center for Academic Success Lobby from 7:50pm - 8:50pm.

Tuesday, September 13 Theatre Auditions Auditions for “Sideman” and “The Servant of Two Masters”. Copies of the script are available in the Theatre Department office, Vaughn Eames 409. Contact Holly Logue by email: hlogue@kean.edu, phone: (908) 7374420, or stop by her office in VE 409. Welcome Back Week Grab some snacks and explore Kean in the CPTS Reflections Garden from 5pm 6pm and again in the Center for Academic Success Lobby from 7:50pm - 8:50pm.

Parking (continued from page 1) 

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Visitors must stop at the Visitor’s Circle guard booth and receive a pass to park. Faculty, staff and students with parking stickers are not authorized to park in this area unless given a special pass. Overflow parking for faculty, staff and students will be available in two locations:

If you have any questions regarding parking, please call the Office of Administration and Finance at (908) 737-7020.

Saturday, September 17 Sunday, September 18 Boy Gets Girl by Rebecca Gilman Presented by Premiere Stages and the Department of Theatre at Kean University in Wilkins Theatre at 8pm on Saturday and 2pm on Sunday. Ticket prices range from $15 to $25 and special group rates are available for parties of 10 or more. For further information, please call the Box Office at 908-737-SHOW (7469) or visit www.kean. edu/premierestages online.

Monday, September 19

One Stop Service Center Last Day to Withdraw with 100% Refund.

Thursday, September 15 Boy Gets Girl by Rebecca Gilman Presented by Premiere Stages and the Department of Theatre at Kean University in Wilkins Theatre at 8pm. Ticket prices range from $15 to $25 and special group rates are available for parties of 10 or more. For further information, please call the Box Office at 908-737-SHOW (7469) or visit www.kean.edu/premierestages online.

Tuesday, September 20

One Stop Service Center Last Day to Withdraw with 75% Refund.

Constitution Day Recognize the Constitution as the symbol of freedom and justice that bonds us together in CAS, room 106 at 3:30pm. Meet the Greeks Learn about Greek Life 4pm-8pm in the University Center Patio.

Cougar Athletics

Wed. Sept. 14 Sat. Sept. 17 Wed. Sept. 21

OVERALL: 00-00 USMMA-Kings Point SUNY-Cortland Wesley College

Wed. Sept. 14 Sat. Sept. 17 Wed. Sept. 21

OVERALL: 00-00 John Jay College Baruch College Rutgers-Newark

Volleyball Tues. Sept. 13 Sat. Sept. 17 Tues. Sept. 20

OVERALL: 00-00

Eastern University Rowan University Richard Stockton College

Tennis Tues. Sept. 13 Sat. Sept. 17 Thur. Sept. 22

OVERALL: 00-00

NYU Invitational Drew Invitational

Field Hockey Wed. Sept. 14 Sat. Sept. 17 Wed. Sept. 21

OVERALL: 00-00

Drew University William Paterson University New Jersey City University

Cross Country Sat. Sept. 17 Sat. Sept. 24

OVERALL: 00-00

Arcadia University William Paterson University New Jersey City University

WOMen’s Soccer

Dougall Computer Lab September 7-30 12 pm - 12 am

September 12 - 24, 2005 Monday-Thursday 9 am - 8 pm Friday 9 am - 5 pm Saturday 10 am - 2 pm

Friday, September 16

Men’s Soccer

9 am - 11 pm 9 am - 9 pm 10 am - 7 pm 10 am - 10 pm

P: (908) 737-5230 Mon, Tues, Thursday 9 am - 6 pm Wednesday 9 am - 7 pm Friday 9 am - 4 pm

Community Service Open House Find out about the benefits of volunteering and the various opportunities to make a difference at 3:30pm in the UC, room 228.

Sat. Sept. 3 Sat. Sept. 17 Sat. Sept. 24

Computer Lab Monday-Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday

Movie Night Take a break and come watch a movie in the UC Little Theater at 8pm.

Wednesday, September 21

Football

Information Desk P: (908) 737-5222 Monday-Thursday 7 am - 12 am Friday 7 am - 10 pm Saturday 10 am - 8 pm Sunday 10 am - 11 pm

Marketplace Monday-Thursday Friday

Blood Drive Save a life - give blood from 10am-4pm in the UC, room 228.

Boy Gets Girl by Rebecca Gilman Presented by Premiere Stages and the Department of Theatre at Kean University in Wilkins Theatre at 8pm. Ticket prices range from $15 to $25 and special group rates are available for parties of 10 or more. For further information, please call the Box Office at 908-737-SHOW (7469) or visit www.kean.edu/premierestages online.

University Center

CPTS Coffee Hour Enjoy free coffee and refreshments before or after class in Hutchinson Hall Lobby from 7pm-8pm courtesy of CPTS.

Welcome Back Dance Come celebrate the beginning of a wonderful new academic year. Student Organization of Kean University, Inc. invites you to enjoy a night of music, dance and good times in Downs Hall from 9pm-1am. Purchase tickets for just $1 with your Cougar ID at Wilkins Theatre Box Office.

• On the East Campus, with complimentary shuttle service between the campuses. • In the NJ TRANSIT® Union Station parking lot, from Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to midnight, as well as Saturday and Sunday from 6 a.m. to midnight. Kean faculty, staff and students are required to park within the yellow lines; they may not park in spaces separated by white lines. Parking in this area will be limited and on a first-come, first-service basis. Signs will be posted when the lot is full. All vehicles must display the valid Kean University parking sticker.

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NJAC: 00-00 Home - 3PM Home - 1PM Away - 1PM NJAC: 00-00 Home - 4:30PM Away - 7PM Away - 4PM NJAC: 00-00 Away - 7PM Home - 7PM Home - 7:30PM NJAC: 00-00 Bronx, NY - 10AM Madison, NJ - 10AM NJAC: 00-00 Home - 7:30PM Away - 7PM Away - 4PM NJAC: 00-00 Away - 3:30PM Away - 12PM Home - 3:30PM

OVERALL: 00-00

NJAC: 00-00

Rutgers-Newark Swathmore College Tournament Rowan University

Away - 7PM Away - TBA Home - 7PM

For th e K ean University st u dent com m unit y

9 am - 7 pm 9 am - 4 pm

Bookstore

Food court Monday-Thursday Friday

7 am - 7 pm 7 am - 3 pm

Snack Bar Monday-Thursday Friday-Saturday Sunday

11 am - 11 pm 3 pm - 9 pm 4 pm - 10 pm

starbucks/Coffee house Monday-Thursday 11 am - 9 pm Ice Cream Parlor Monday - Thursday 11 am - 7 pm Friday 11 am - 3 pm Game Room Monday - Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday

11 am - 10 pm 11 am - 8 pm 12 pm - 7 pm 4 pm - 9 pm

Hours Subject to Change

Hours of Operation East Campus Pool & Fitness Rooms P: (908) 737-5803 Monday-Thurs. 12:30 pm - 9:30 pm Friday 12:30 pm - 5 pm Saturday-Sunday 10 am - 2 pm Hours begin on Wednesday, September 14, and are subject to Change. Contact the Recreation Office at (908) 737-5803 for updates.

Library nancy thompson library P: (908) 737-4618 Monday-Thursday 8 am - 12 am Friday 8 am - 5 pm Saturday 9 am - 4 pm Sunday 1 pm - 10 pm student Technology lab P: (908) 737-5236 Monday-Thursday 8 am - 12 am Friday 8 am - 5 pm Saturday 9 am - 5 pm Sunday 1 pm - 10 pm The Student Technology Laboratory is closed on State Holidays and University Closing Dates.

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Picnic

The COUGAR’S Byte

September 12, 2005

(continued from page 1)

and taking a break from their regular routine, most like Amaury Ramirez, had the Fall semester on mind. Ramirez is looking forward for it to begin and has high hopes. “It (course load) is a lot of work but I am looking to receiving good grades,” said Steven Manrique. Many saw the opportunities offered from EEO as a benefit. When asked what the best thing about EEO was, Kenya D. Roulhac simply stated, “the tutoring.”

Many alumni too were present including Newton Clement, Class of 2003. Clement, an Iota, said he always participates in his fraternities functions. “I step, hang out with the brothers, its all about unity.” Now a Senior Financial Representative for Washington Mutual, Clement advised current EEO freshmen to be persistent in everything they do and to “stay focused.” Kuan Bowleg, Class of 2004, also took a trip down memory lane. He recalled the students he started his college journey with, “…some had a big impact on my life in terms of career.” Bowleg is currently

working in Accounting. The legendary class that started it all was also at the barbeque. Dennis Isaac and Mark Murphy, Class of 1994, were the first group of Iota’s to initiate the barbeque. Both agreed that it was “beautiful” to see that it was still continuing. “We are going to continue this (barbeque) for generations to come,” said Kwaku Ofori, the May 2005 graduate. Tiberah Tsehai, ‘05, B.A. Broadcast Communication, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.

(top) From left, Dennis Isaac, Class of 1994, Mark Murphy, Class of 1994, and Herlens Arnaud, Class of 2001. (right) From left, EEO student Jefferson John, Hansley Cazeau, junior International Business major, and Ricky Cordevo, senior Industrial Design major. (far right) From left, EEO students, Kenya D. Roulhac, Porshia R. Bennett, and Andrea Beteta.

Discover the Perfect Chemistry By Rajul Punjabi, Senior Diversity Editor

hat can you expect if you are an incoming student at Kean University, majoring in one of the science fields? I bet you didn’t think it was computer games with sensor remote controls. These games were just some of the activities that students were participating in at this year’s Epsilon Corps’ Opening Ceremony. Epsilon Corps, for those who don’t know, is a funded, campusScott Snowden | The Cougar’s Byte wide program designed to enhance Pictured above are the participants in the Epsilon Corps students’ success in the science, math first ever Summer Institute. and technology courses at Kean. The Opening Ceremony marked the typical science workshop, students seemed to beginning of it’s first ever Summer Institute, which be communicating better since it was a laid back goes on until August 18th. Aside from just tutoring, atmosphere with support from peers and advice it involves mentors (upperclassmen science majors) from students farther down the path. and professors who guide newer students and help them build leadership skills as well as a sense of President Farahi dropped by to show his support for community. It’s the program and to introduce always nice to himself with a brief and have comfort light-hearted speech about in the fact that the University’s goals and someone is always a little advice on getting around to help in ahead. He encouraged your academic students to envision their endeavors! success as he said “I know where the top of the Upon entry into mountain is, and I will Hennings Hall get there!” Room 113, where Students Scott Snowden the ceremony seemed to The Cougar’s Byte was being held, really respond iPod Winners students were to him, sharing (top) Dr. John found in groups, jokes and Dobosiewicz, Dr. engaged in winning stories. Jing Gao, Christine a game with trivia Nguyen, Matt questions. There G e t t i n g Sorenson, Karyn was also an essay involved in courtesy of the Epsilon Corps Whitehurst, Dr. contest with a program George Avirappattu, Dr. Ali Setoodehnia, and Dr. prizes that people such as this one is a great Xiaobo Yu (right) Effat Jabeen - My looks and my actually really chance to get to know genes and Indira Perez - Freaky Physics Friday. wanted (iPods!) people in your field as well The essays were as showcase your skills written on a scientific topic that the students were and abilities, so if you are in a scientific field and most passionate about – it was a great opportunity want to do everything you can to develop your to introduce themselves to the program and as status, offer your services as a tutor and mentor; well as focus their own interests. Dr. Xiaobo Yu, go to the website (epsilon.kean.edu) and fill out an the Program’s Principle Investigator, and Dr. John application, or send an email to epsilon@kean.edu. Dobosiewicz, Project Executive Director, hosted the event along with some of their colleagues, who are also professors of math/sciences. They worked with student mentors to help introduce the program Rajul Punjabi, senior English major, is a member of The to the incoming freshmen. Although it wasn’t your Cougar’s Byte staff.

Tiberah Tsehai | The Cougar’s Byte

Falling Into a New Semester By Rajul Punjabi, Senior Diversity Editor

t’s always hard making the transition from those laid-back summer days to the hectic routine of a fall schedule. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to make that shift a lot easier. The best thing to do is to involve yourself in constructive activities at school. Of course, there will be distractions since so many of the people on campus are coming back bronzed and beautiful, straight from the beach - but have no fear, getting focused on school includes a lot of socializing as well. First, you have to be in the right mental set. A new semester means a fresh beginning. Stash away books and any papers you have from last semester and organize your work or study area. It’s always easier to get focused in an environment that is clean and inviting! If you have your computer on a desk, make sure it is cleared off; get rid of any unnecessary items so your mind can be free of clutter – just like your room! This is especially important if you share a room with someone, whether it may be a roommate, or your husband or wife. Next, create a plan for what your semester is going to look like. Get a day planner or write out your schedule and post it somewhere that is easily accessible, and set dates for when you want to accomplish certain goals or start projects. Getting organized is not always easy, but it will get you on the right track to success in any field! If you are forgetful, or have a lot on your plate, an easy way to remember something is to set an alarm on your phone as a reminder. As summer drifts out of our reach once again this year, we know that the academic responsibilities

V isit o u r onl ine e d ition at w w w.cou garsb y te . com

start to pile on with no mercy! Another way you can get back into the fall grind is if you get back in touch with those important contacts that you made during the school year. Is there an advisor that has helped you a lot last semester? Drop him or her an email with any questions you might have about your classes or requirements. Also, make new contacts! It always helps to seek advice from someone successful and it’s great to offer your experiences to someone looking for help. This tip leads right into the next one which is getting involved in activities and events on campus. There a million different clubs and organizations you can join that would look great on your resume; it also wouldn’t hurt to make some new friends and offer your input on topics that concern the University. Joining clubs and groups encourages you to make long-term commitments, which instills a sense of discipline – something that could help in your professional life. Last but not least, create incentives for yourself. Since you will have many academic obligations, set aside “vacation” time, a special night for you to forget about all your worries and relax or enjoy good times with your friends! If you give yourself adequate time to study and to rest, your semester can be a little less stressful and a lot more productive!

Rajul Punjabi, senior English major, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.