VOLUME 2 • ISSUE 9
A STUDENT LIFE & LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT PUBLICATION FOR THE KEAN UNIVERSITY STUDENT COMMUNITY
OCTOBER 31, 2005
Kean’s Taking Care Of Your Heart By Kaitlyn Davies, Staff Writer ven though October 22 was a cold, rainy morning students, staff, and friends of Kean all gathered in Wilkins Theater to register for the American Heart Association’s Annual Heart Walk. The heart walk is the signature fundraising event for the American Heart Association. During registration, there was a continental breakfast to energize participants for the three mile walk that lay ahead. The walk was held at ShearingPlough in Kenilworth and was organized to spread awareness and raise money to help find cures for the country’s number 1 and number 3 killers, heart disease and stroke.
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Ashante’ S. Barnes | The Cougar’s Byte
“I like to see all the pictures and read the current events” said Natacha Lucien sophomore Elementary Education with an option of Bi-Lingual minoring in Criminal Justice. Get caught reading The Cougar’s Byte and get your picture prominently displayed on the front page.
Kean University’s participation in this event was made possible by Janice MurrayLaury, Vice President for Student Affairs, and everyone who works in her office. Ms. Murray-Laury states, ”This is the first time that Kean University is participating in the walk as a team. That just feels so good!” Many of the same faces
Kaitlyn Davies | The Cougar’s Byte
were present at both the breast cancer walk and the heart walk. Janice Murray-Laury went on to say, ”that just shows how caring Kean students are!”
Kaitlyn Davies | The Cougar’s Byte
Junior psychology/biology major Charlene Bathelus is a perfect example of the typical Kean student’s personality. When asked why she was walking she said, ”I am doing it for other people who have heart disease. My friend’s father just died after suffering a heart attack and that motivated me to come today and walk on this cold and rainy day.” Walking
(top right) Showing off our Kean pride! (top left) Walking in the cold and rain to save our hearts!
What Do College Students Do For Halloween? By Jen Bissu, Senior Features Editor allen leaves crunch underfoot as you walk across campus, breathing in the fresh, crisp autumn air. Yes, it’s October, and Halloween is just around the corner! So what can college students do to enjoy this fun holiday?
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■ Go trick-or-treating! Hey, you’re never too old to dress up and have some good old-fashioned fun with friends. It’s a great chance to relive your childhood for a few hours. ■ Have a party! You can get lots of cheap Halloween decorations at party supply stores. Think of classic autumn games to play, such as bobbing for apples, pumpkin painting, and spooky story telling. There’s plenty of good spooky music out there—from special Halloween-themed CD’s to the movie soundtrack from Bram Stoker’s Dracula. And don’t forget, you’ll need stuff to munch on! Caramel apples, roasted marshmallows, and homemade Halloween cupcakes all make great party snacks. ■ Are you a horror flick fan? Get some buddies together and hold a “Horror Night!” Shut off the lights, light a candle or two, and watch some cult classics like Halloween and other scary favorites. ■ How about a Haunted Hayride in the countryside? It’s a really romantic idea for a date—gazing up at the moon, snuggling against each other in a pile of hay—or just a fun, spooky experience to share with friends! There’s something about a hayride at night through the dark woods that really captures the delightfully creepy excitement of autumn and Halloween. ■ Attend a Halloween dance! Radio stations host them, as well as schools and other organizations. Boogie down with the “Boogie Man” and other ghouls! ■ Visit historic spooky sites, such as Salem in Massachusetts (home of the Salem Witch Trials), or Sleepy Hollow & Tarrytown in New York (known for The Legend of Sleepy Hollow: Ichabod Crane and the Headless Horseman). Such locations often hold guided haunted history tours, which are lots of fun—spooky tales are more exciting when it’s something that actually happened (or is rumored to have happened)! Jen Bissu, graduate Fine Art Education major, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.
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What Kind Of Candy Bar Are You? By Kaitlyn Davies, Staff Writer alloween has already got everyone on a sugar rush – so why not just roll with it? Have you ever wondered if you were a candy, what candy you would be? Well then this quiz is just for you! This quiz could solve all of your life’s problems because there’s a part of all of us that truly believes candy makes all of our problems go away!
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1. While shopping for new clothes do you…. a) go to every pricey store imaginable for the designer label? b) go to a major chain store like Target or Marshalls? c) shopping!?...I hardly ever go shopping! 2. What kind of car do you drive? a) a brand new car b) it’s used but it’s just as good as new to me! c) It’s a car that I got way back in high school but it gets me around! 3. What kind of cell phone do you have? a) a new high tech camera phone b) it’s one that I got a couple of years ago c) it’s ancient but it still makes calls 4. What kind of shoes/sneakers get your attention? a) anything that has a designer name attached b) anything that’s shiny or that has some “bling” c) none…I’ve been wearing the same type of shoes for years. 5. What does your computer look like? a) it’s the newest, sleekest, and lightest laptop on the market b) it’s old but updated c) it’s old but I never use it because school has newer ones 6. What is your favorite kind of candy? a) plain chocolate b) chocolate and peanut butter c) something sugary and fruit flavored LOG ON TO THE COUGAR’S BYTE ONLINE TO FIND OUT WHAT CANDY BAR YOU ARE. Kaitlyn Davies, freshman Political Science major, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.
FOR T HE KE AN UNI V E RS I T Y S T UDE NT CO MM U N I T Y
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October 31, 2005
Heart (continued from Page 1)
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 Editor Rajul Punjabi Arts Rochelle Trotman, Editor Features Jen Bissu, Senior Editor Staff Writers Ashante S. Barnes Angela M. Barrett Kaitlyn Davies Debra Ekpo Katrina Manzano Irene Murema Jennifer Rubino Multimedia Editor Rich Lemonie Circulation Manager Ryan Matthews Student Media Managing Editor Toni M. Cerbo
many of the students, staff, and friends felt good about themselves. It was a day to hang out with friends, exercise, and know that you’re actively joining in the effort to save somebody’s life. The expression on everybody’s face when they knew they were getting to the finish line was the same; they were exhausted, excited, and filled with pride all at
W E AT H E R O U T L O O K For updated forecasts visit http://hurri.kean.edu/~keancast.
MONDAY, OCTOBER 31, 2005 HI: 68 LO: 44 TUES. 11/1
WED. 11/2
THURS. 11/3
HI: 63
HI: 63
HI: 58
LO: 46
LO: 47
LO: 42
FRI. 11/4
SAT. 11/5
SUN. 11/6
HI: 52
HI: 44
HI: 49
LO: 44
LO: 37
LO: 31
Kean University American Meteorological Society/National Weather Association
Kaitlyn Davies | The Cougar’s Byte
once. Danielle Stradford, Junior Graphic Communications major, said she was walking because �it was a community service that I wanted to do for my sorority.� After the walk participants were all treated to a brunch in Downs Hall. It gave everyone a chance to re-energize after the morning walk, sit down and talk. Everybody’s reason for attending was different, but the fact that so many people came out and walked defined what Kean University stands for as a school. Participants were proud to unite as a part of this amazing institution. As Janice Murray-Laury, Vice President for Student Affairs put it, �this was just a very successful morning!� In the end Kean University raised over $3,000.00 which will be donated to the American Heart Association. Kaitlyn Davies, freshman Political Science major, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.
Looking For An Internship? By AshantĂŠ S. Barnes, Staff Writer n Tuesday October 25, 2005, Kean University’s office of Career Development and Advancement hosted an internship job fair. The first floor of the Center for Academic Success was filled with eager students hoping to land the “perfect internshipâ€? that could get their foot in the door. Companies from all over New Jersey were represented including some from as far away as Washington D.C.
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Including: All Star Legal Cranford, NJ Broadway House for Continuing Care, Newark NJ The Center for Client Retention, Springfield, NJ Kean University’s Study Abroad Program Union, NJ Cintas Corporation Union, NJ Clear Channel Radio Jersey City, NJ Community Food Bank of NJ Hillside, NJ Exclusive Model Management Elizabeth, NJ Enterprise Rent-A-Car Cranford, NJ Festival of Ballooning, Inc. West Caldwell, NJ Friends of Jazz Plainfield, NJ HCR Manor Care Mountainside, NJ NJ Nets East Rutherford NJ NJ Organ & Tissue Sharing Network Springfield, NJ Phoenix International Business Logistics Elizabeth, NJ Mobil Integration Services, Inc Scotch Plains, NJ New Jersey Department of Corrections Trenton, NJ Phoenix International Business Logistics Elizabeth, NJ Schonbraun McCann Group, LLC Roseland, NJ Union Township Chamber of Commerce Union, NJ Urban League of Essex County Newark, NJ USI Services Group, Inc Springfield NJ WKTU-FM Jersey City, NJ WMGQ-FM/ WCTC-AM Somerset NJ The Washington Center, Washington DC
Ashante S. Barnes | The Cougar’s Byte
The Women’s Fund of New Jersey Union, NJ Esprit US Retail Westfield NJ UMDNJ
The Center for Career Development and Advancement is dedicated to offering students and alumni services and resources aimed to help them make career decisions while conducting their job searches. The Career center provides students with individual career counseling, rĂŠsumĂŠ critiquing, current job postings, workshops, mock interviews, interest and personality tests, library and audiovisual center, career days, jobs fairs and on campus recruiting. The Career Development and Advancement Office is located in the Center for Academic Success room 123. To schedule appointments, please call (908) 737-0320 Monday-Thursday 9:00am-8:00pm and Fridays 9:00am 5:00pm. You may fax your rĂŠsumĂŠ to (908) 737-0325 for critiquing, which is a great service that they offer that could take your rĂŠsumĂŠ from “blahâ€? to brilliant!. For further information please log into www.kean.edu/~career or email career@kean.edu to check out their next event.
Ashante’ S. Barnes, junior Public Administration major with a minor in Training and Development, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.
Life Lessons Without The Lecture By Angela M. Barrett, Staff Writer he Office of Student Life and Leadership sponsored an Alcohol Awareness Workshop on Monday, October 17, 2005 at 3:30 p.m. in Wilkins Theatre. Many athletes and Greeks were in attendance for the workshop; they were eager and ready to listen, expecting to hear about how bad drinking is for the soul. The guest speaker, Ed Agresta was an older light hearted man who, to everyone’s surprise, did not bash drinking at all. He simply enlightened the audience on how to achieve positive energy in life without drinking alcohol. He taught the audience many different acronyms to live by such as G.O.Y.A. which stands for “Get off your A%$� and S.O.S. meaning “Stuck on Stupid.� Agresta even put on different masks and used puppets to get his point across about how precious life is. When Agresta showed the
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audience a dinosaur mask, the crowd yelled, “Put it on!� Agresta refused but offered it to anyone in the audience who wanted to put it on. One student jumped on stage and posed with the dinosaur mask which made the audience burst into a rampage of laughter and also lightened up the mood causing the audience to be even livelier. Agresta even made the entire crowd get up and play a game of “Simon Says�. He made everyone lose after a couple of rounds by saying, “Simon says put your hand on your cheek, now on your chin�, which he used a metaphor to explain that, “In life you have to pay attention to all aspects of a situation. Just because someone says one thing, they can be doing something totally different.� Who knew life lessons could be taught while playing a childrens’ game?
V IS IT OUR O NL I NE E DI T I O N AT WWW. CO UG ARSB Y T E . C O M
At the end of his presentation, Agresta showed a video about a senior citizen that ran an Olympic simulation race for his handicapped son. The audience was very captivated by the presentation. “I expected to see a video on extreme drinking but it wasn’t like that at all. I’ve never seen someone so dedicated. I couldn’t believe that that man was in his late 60’s, putting his own life at risk just because his son wanted to cross the finish line�, commented Junior Andre Banks, Technology and Management Science major. Crossing the finish line is the motive that Agresta sought to instill in the many different students within the audience.
Angela M. Barrett, sophomore Communications major, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.
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A Little Welcome With Big Opportunities By Rajul Punjabi, Assistant Editor very year, Kean’s reputation is building, and the education we provide at an affordable rate is in high demand. That’s why, this year’s Undergraduate Open House, which took place October 23, 2005, was packed to capacity with prospective students looking for a place to call their academic home. But Kean has so much more to offer than academics, which is why the Open House was the perfect opportunity for students of all ages to get acquainted with the great aspects of college life that Kean has to offer. The majority of the people that attended the Open House were traditional students, many fresh out of high school, looking to start the foundation for their careers. Others included non-traditional adult students who were looking to expand their education in a certain field and advance their established career paths.
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Many high school seniors attended with their parents, eager to learn about the popular programs they heard about. When asked about what she was most interested in at Kean, Lisa Razano, a prospective student, answered, “The sports programs and the Physical Therapy program, “ which isn’t a surprise since many of our best athletes come to Kean from surrounding areas in New Jersey. Many of these high school students get an opportunity to come and watch our teams play and get an idea of what their chemistry is like. As for the Physical Therapy program, our more popular majors like that one, along with Business and Education, are often mentioned when someone brings up Kean University in a conversation. There were also Admissions and Transfer Opportunities Workshops held in the University Center for those who were interested in transferring to Kean from another institution. Students transfer for all types of reasons, and the services that Kean offers to these students can help them find a more comfortable and often more affordable place to earn their degree. There were also many non-traditional students who
Kaitlyn Davies The Cougar’s Byte (top) Beverly Desch, of Student Life & Leadership Development greets prospective students. (left) The University Center Atrium fills up quick. (bottom) Students enjoy a little entertainment while learning about Kean.
have to take time away from their full-time jobs in order to get the education they want, and they often are supporting themselves completely. For them, and all others who cared to attend, there were also workshops concerning Financial Planning. There was a great turnout, and the University Center Atrium was filled with helpful faculty and staff, pamphlets, and of course lots of refreshments and freebies. There was even a grand piano set up near the bookstore to set the relaxed mood for a nurturing environment. Attending the Open House was a great move on the part of prospective students – they showed initiative for what they are planning to achieve in the future. Rajul Punjabi, senior English major, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.
$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.
Ford Foundation Diversity Fellowships See website for complete eligibility information and online applications: http:// national-academies.org/fellowships. For more information contact Fellowships Office by phone: 202.334.2872 or by email: infofell@nas.edu. Ford Foundation Diversity Fellowships are designed to increase the diversity of the nation’s college and university faculties by increasing their ethnic and racial diversity, to maximize the educational benefits of diversity, and to increase the number of professors who can and will use diversity as a resource for enriching the education of all students. Predoctoral deadline is November 17, 2005.
Freedom Forum NCAA Sports Journalism Scholarship Applications available online at www.ncaa.org. For more information, contact Sports Journalism Scholarship Committee at (317) 917-6477. The Freedom Forum, in cooperation with the NCAA, is seeking scholarship applications from current full-time
juniors with career goals in sports journalism, majors in journalism or experience in campus sports journalism. Eight $3000 scholarships will be awarded to assist applicants in their senior year of study. Deadline is December 9, 2005.
AWS Foundation, Inc Scholarships The AWS Foundation is dedicated to meeting the needs for education and research in the field of welding and related joining technologies. Building welding’s future through education. Individual applications available online at www.aws.org/foundation For more information email nprado-pulido@aws.org or call 1 (800) 443-9353 ext 250. Deadline January 15, 2006.
Datatel Scholars Foundation Scholarships The Datatel Scholars Foundation offers scholarships ranging in value from $1000 to $2500 to students attending eligible Datatel client institutions, such as Kean University. All applications must be submitted online at www.datatel.com/dsf. For more information email scholars@datatel.com or call 1 (800) 486-4332. Application deadline January 31, 2006.
Elie Wiesel Foundation For Humanity Essay Contest Holocaust Resource Center Announces the Elie Wiesel Prize in Ethics Conttest 2006. The contest is sponsored by the Elie Wiesel Foundation for Humanity. It challenges students to identify, define and analyze contemporary ethical questions, issues or dilemmas. It is open only to full-time undergraduate juniors and seniors enrolled in an acredited, four year college or university in the United States. First Prize, $5000, Second Prize, $2500, Third Prize, 1500, and 2 Honorable Mentions, $500 each. For further information and applications please contact Helen Walzer at 908-737-4661.
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Wednesday, October 19, 2005
Thank God It’s Wednesday By Irene Murema, Staff Writer f you still haven’t seen the light, then maybe it’s about time you take a moment to look harder; Wednesdays on campus are all that and a bag of chips! The activities that take place on campus are spectacular, and even if you have a packed schedule, you should try and make it to one of them. If you are a competition lover, you would have especially enjoyed the pool tournament that took place in the game room last Wednesday, where more than thirty students from Kean showed off their pool skills. And if you love to gamble, but hate losing money, the mini casino would have been the best place to be on campus.
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In order to participate in the pool competition, students had to register for it a week prior to the game in the Office of Student Life and Leadership Development. Those who did entered the game room, one by one, with a clear vision of the fifty dollar jackpot that they could win. The room was packed to the brim with eager students who wanted to see who the next Michael Jordan of pool would be. Competition was stiff and everyone in the audience looked suspicious - watching out for foul play. The mood was enhanced by soft music in the background that helped the players to relax and try to incorporate the beat of the songs to the rhythm of their technique with the cue ball. After two and a half hours of solid competition, Frank Muniz, Business Marketing major, was the proud winner of the fifty dollar prize, followed by Roman E. Alfaro, Biology major and Darrell Jones,
Commerce Major, who each got a twenty five dollar consolation prize. This competition was not only about winning; it was also about believing that you can do anything, once you put your mind to it. Casino Night was another great spectacle that took place in the University Center Greek Lounge, where more than one hundred amped and anxious people, including visitors took part. The mini-casino consisted of eight tables manned by our very own Kean students. There was a table for roulette, one for poker and six tables for blackjack. When the competitors first entered the game, they each received one raffle ticket and twenty fake five dollar bills. At the end of the game, they were required to cash in all their fake money in exchange for another raffle ticket, if they had acquired more than fifty dollars during the game. The winners for the night went home with exclusive prizes like an I-Pod shuffle, a 256 MB Jump Drive, a 13” TV and more. They included students like Johanna Alarcon who won a Jump Drive; Scott Smith proudly went home with an XBox, Pamela Kisson with a CD player among others. These activities should be enough to convince you that Wednesdays at Kean are a lot of fun and if you missed last week’s Paw Events, it’s not too late—you can always clear out a little time for fun and games next Wednesday! Irene Murema, freshman Biology major, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.
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Wednesday, October 26, 2005
Another Wednesday, Another PAW By Irene Murema, Staff Writer nother Wednesday at Kean University proved to be very successful; including taking pictures with the cougar, exotic salsa dance lessons and caricature drawing in the Cougars Den, you definitely have to be psyched about Wednesdays! Lots of students turn up for these events not only because they are free to attend, but because these activities promote Kean spirit and unity among the students.
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Picture taking with the cougar was a great activity that took place from 3 p.m. through 6 p.m. in the University Center atrium. Dozens of students had their picture taken so they could show off their school pride to friends. They can pick up their pictures next Wednesday accompanied by a frame, which is theirs to keep. The dance lessons in the Pre-function lobby were very entertaining as well as quite a workout. The students that took part in the free classes enjoyed themselves as did the instructor, Louis Martinez, who did an amazing job teaching the students sizzling salsa moves. “Being in the salsa class opened up multicultural doors for students who participated”, said MaryAnn Mathews, senior Criminal Justice major. Carlos Miranda, junior Criminal Justice major, felt that the dance workshops that have been going on during the PAW Events are very helpful as well as informal, so there’s no pressure and he can master his dance moves for when he goes out! The caricature drawing event that summed up the day provided a one of a kind piece of art for students to take home and put up on their wall. In case you didn’t know, the art of caricature is a prized method of drawing whereby the artist creates an exaggerated replica of you in a short amount of time. The students had a chance to see just how crazy they looked when drawn. Most were impressed by the outcome and some actually identified themselves with Mona Lisa! So if it happens to be a Wednesday and you want to take a break from your studies or job, feel free to stop by the University Center and join other students in celebrating PAW Events. Irene Murema, freshman Biology major, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.
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Latins Show Love For Their Culture By Rajul Punjabi, Assistant Editor rust Kean University to put a twist on any variety show they have on campus. In the case of the Hispanic Heritage Celebration, it was a whole lot of Latin flavor! This cultural showcase of music and dance was sponsored by the Spanish Speaking Program and held in Wilkins Theatre on the evening of October 13th. Throughout the night, the audience enjoyed an assortment of performances from all the different facets of the Hispanic culture. Our very talented members of Kean Dance Theatre presented a dance of two parts; one entitled The Latin Sweet, and another to an Afro-Cuban song called Mujeres, which was a tribute to the beauty and value of women.
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The two emcees were Jose Manuel Cotto, a Senior Communication Major, and Rolman Vergara, an Alumnus who came back to host and celebrate the event. Diversity is one of Kean’s strongest assets and this showcase was a useful tool for all of our proud Hispanic students who represent cultures from all over Latin America. Other groups such as Trio Columbia, Conjunto Nuevo Milenio, and the Panamanian Folkloric Dance Group performed along with Mariachi Real de Mexico, a traditional Mexican guitar and vocal group. Since tickets were only $5, the Hispanic Heritage Celebration was a great deal for an evening of music and culture. With a large percentage of students of Latin descent that attend Kean, it’s no surprise that the show had such a great turnout. One of the members of Kean Dance Theatre, Celenia Rodriguez, a Junior Accounting major, commented on the significance of the show. “Kean has a large tight-knit Latin population and I think we should celebrate the culture. All the Hispanic based clubs and organizations are built on the foundation of our Latin community.” The clubs that Celenia is referring to include the Association of Latin American Students, and the Latin American Studies Club, among others. Members of these clubs strive to bring recognition to the history and influence of their ethnicity. They help enrich and educate our student body about matters of the world while embodying the values of the Latin customs. So no matter what race you are, the Hispanic Heritage Celebration was a great event that got a lot people to embrace the Latin aspect that is so important to the quilt of cultures we represent here at Kean.
October 31, 2005
Africana Studies By Jen Bissu, Senior Features Editor f you find African history and heritage interesting, Kean has a wonderful department that you should be a part of! You can major in Africana Studies, and soon Kean will offer a minor in the subject. Joining the Africana Studies Club is an excellent option for everyone, including students of different majors. The Office of Africana Studies also offers a very exciting course, the African Diaspora Travelearn Tour, for Kean’s adventurous students—which involved a trip to Egypt this past summer!
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So what is Africana Studies? It focuses on the history, culture, environment, philosophies, aspirations, and achievements of people of African descent throughout the world, from an Afrocentric perspective. Kean’s Africana Studies courses present issues, trends, personalities, concepts, ideas, and ideologies basic to an understanding of the interdisciplinary field of Africana Studies. Why would you want to participate in Africana Studies? Well, if simply finding the field interesting isn’t enough of a reason, consider this: the field aims to broaden people’s knowledge of the world-wide human experience by presenting an aspect of that experience—the “Black Experience”—which educational institutions have traditionally neglected or distorted. It’s bound to be an enlightening journey! Kean’s Office of Africana Studies explains that the field “provides the students with a unique opportunity to apply the study of the history and cultures of African people as a practical force for social change in areas such as race relations, politics, law, medicine, education and communications.”
Rajul Punjabi, senior English major, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff. The Afrocentric Perspective rests on the premise that it is valid to consider Africa as a geographical and cultural starting base in the study of peoples of African descent. The objective is to view the world from the
Life After Kean
perspective of the people being studied—to walk a mile in their shoes, so to speak. The Office of Africana Studies offers many enlightening experiences to the student body, including having guest speakers such as Maya Angelou and Danny Glover. Perhaps the most exciting, however, is the African Diaspora Travelearn Course (ANTH 4770) which consists of an international trip. Earning credits while traveling and seeing the world— you can’t beat that! Since 1988, destinations included Egypt, Ghana, South Africa, Brazil, Cuba, Gambia, Greece, Haiti, Senegal, Zimbabwe, and even Caribbean cruises! And you wouldn’t just be there with your fellow students from campus—external participants from New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Maryland and even as far away as Arkansas, Bermuda, California, England, Louisiana, and the U.S. Virgin Islands have made Kean’s Travelearn program popular throughout the world! 2005’s Travelearn destination was Egypt, and took place during Summer Session II, consisting of a ten-day educational tour of Egypt—Land of the Pharaohs: Cairo, Aswan, Luxor, Abu Simbel, and a four-day cruise along the legendary Nile through Kom Ombo, Esna, and Edfu. Participants learned about all the things Egypt is famous for: the Pyramids, the Sphinx, the Temples of Isis, Ramses, Nefertari, Hatchepsut, Horus & Valley of Kings and Queens. Students that participated came back with exciting stories to share, and a new perspective on Egypt and the “Black Experience.” Think you would enjoy learning about Africana Studies and Kean’s esteemed Travelearn program? Contact the office located in Hutchinson room 302, at (908) 737-3915. Jen Bissu, graduate Fine Art Education major, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.
By Rajul Punjabi, Assistant Editor or all the upperclassmen out there, who are starting to get all their credits figured out for graduation, are you asking yourself the inevitable question? What happens after college? Well, depending on your career choice and your goals, there are a million different paths for you to consider. While some students are already applying to graduate schools, others are planning to take time off and recharge before they collide head-on into the working world.
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No matter what you chose to do after you get your undergraduate degree, make sure you are getting the very best that Kean University has to offer. If you are confused about what classes you need in order to graduate, meet with an advisor as soon as possible to help you go over the checklist of requirements for your major. To be better prepared before you even go see an advisor, print out a copy of your major’s guide sheet. This way, you can check off the classes you have already taken. Print out a copy of your transcript as well, which you can find on your KeanWise account. If you handle all the requirement technicalities before time, you won’t have to worry about squeezing that time-consuming biology lab into your last semester at Kean,
when senioritis has kicked in full force. Also, don’t forget to fill out an application for graduation early. The applications are found in the first floor of the Administration Building; after you complete it, bring it to the head of your department and get it approved. If you are planning to graduate this May or August, make sure you get all that business done by the deadline in January. Once you have all of that out of the way, you can clear your mind and focus on what’s in store for you after you finally have your hard-earned diploma. You will be one whole degree smarter and a whole lot more experienced, so start planning how you will reap the benefits of your Kean education. For one student, Elise Velazquez, a Senior English major, it’s important to brush up on abilities that will get you ahead of the pack. “Start thinking about what you need to do to prepare for the working world – update your resume and your interview skills.” So no matter what path you chose to travel, use your education here at Kean as your navigation and strive toward endless success. Rajul Punjabi, senior English major, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.
Women And The Politics Of War Courtesy of Women’s Studies he Women’s Studies Program in conjunction with the Institute for Foreign Service and Diplomacy invites you to a day of stimulating and provocative conversations on an important and timely topic, Women and the Politics of War. On November 7, 2005, stop by the University Center room 226 for “Using Curiosity about Militarization to Make Sense of the Katrina Disaster” from 11:00AM – 12:30PM. Then Kean Hall room 127 for “Looking for the Women in the Iraq War: Why does it Matter?” from 3:30PM – 5:00PM.
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Our guest speaker for the day, Dr. Cynthia Enloe, Research Professor in International Development and Women’s Studies at Clark University, will address students, faculty and the extended Kean community on the topic of women, militarization, and international politics, focusing on the current situation in Iraq. A noted scholar and teacher, Dr. Enloe is a widely published feminist theorist who was voted Outstanding Teacher at Clark University three times. She has conducted research and held visiting professorships in Malaysia, Japan, Guyana, and Wales. She is the author of several books, among which are “Bananas, Beaches and Bases: Making Feminist Sense of International Politics” (2000) and her latest, “The Curious Feminist: Searching for Women in a New Age of Empire.” (2004) The events are free and open to the public. We look forward to your participation. For further information, please contact the Women’s Studies Office, 908-737-4091 / womenssp@kean. edu, or the Institute of Foreign Service and Diplomacy in the Center for International Studies, 908-737-7140 or via email at ifsd@kean.edu.
Top Ten Ways To Have Fun Without Drugs & Alcohol By Angela M. Barrett, Staff Writer hursday night rolls around again and if you’re like most KU students you don’t have any Friday classes. Every Thursday night is known campus wide as college night. Sleep? Definitely, nonexistent. Party? Take your pick, there’s more than likely about five different parties going on in the area. But if you’re not up to leaving the campus you might decide to have friends come over to your on-campus apartment. What are you and your friends going to do? Drink alcoholic beverages? Smoke tobacco or narcotics? Not on this campus, Kean University is a dry campus meaning there are no drugs or alcoholic beverages of any sort allowed.
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Instead of turning to drugs and alcohol to have a good time here are your top ten ways to have fun: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.
A dinner party where all of your friends each cook a dish. Play board games with friends. Look out for flyers of upcoming activities or trips posted throughout the University Center. Take a walk over to the fitness center for a workout to exert some energy. Hang out in the game room and play pool or video games. Always check Wilkins Theatre for any shows.
7.
Movie Night! Rent all of your favorite films and have a movie party. 8. Have a laugh fest where you and all of your close friends share and act out all of the funny things that you witnessed all week. 9. Invite the person you’ve been secretly crushing over, for a game of Twister. 10. Browsing the Internet. Angela M. Barrett, sophomore Communications major, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.
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October 31, 2005
The COUGAR’S Byte
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Monday, October 31
Wednesday, November 2
Friday, November 4
International Student Association Come share good times with the international student association at 3:30pm in UC 226A.
University Activities Board Come share your programming ideas at 3:30pm in the University Center room 226A.
Class of 2006 Did you know you can make a difference in our senior Class of 2006? Come learn how at 3:00pm in UC 228.
Kean Athletic Training Workshop In Campus School West Room 109 from 3:30-4:50pm. KU College Democratic Club Presenting internships and other opportunities in Hennings Hall Room 104 at 3:30pm. Muslim Students Association Come be a part of the Muslim Student Association at 3:30pm in UC 337A. Pan-African Student Association Come share your needs and interests at the P.A.S.U. meeting in University Center Room 228 from 3:30-4:50pm. FREE Self Defense Class Learn how to protect yourself from 4-6pm at the East Campus 1st Floor Aerobic Room. CPTS Coffee Hour Enjoy free coffee and refreshments before or after class in Hutchinson Hall Lobby from 7pm-8pm. Nostra Aetate at 40: A Tribute to Sister Rose Thering Come examine the 10.28.65 landmark Vatican ecumenical declaration in honor of one individual who helped to make it happen - American nun of the Dominican Order and past trustee of Kean University, Sister Rose Thering, O.P., Ph.D. at 8pm in the Kean Hall Conference Center. Free admission.
Tuesday, November 1 Catholic Mass Come celebration All Saints’ Day in the University Center room 226A at 11:45am. Miss Island Spice Pageant The Caribbean Islanders Council for Radical Autonomy are looking for 10 girls from the caribbean,as well as gentlemen escorts for their first annual Miss Island Spice Pageant. Stop by the UC Atrium between 12-4pm to sign up.
Circle K Come serve your community, become a strong leader and make friends at the Circle K meeting at 4pm in CAS, room 112. Questions? Call Kasi LeGrand at (732) 662-0509.
CPTS General Body Meeting Come learn about the Council for Part Time Students at 7pm in the University Center room 337 A&B.
FREE Self Defense Class Learn how to protect yourself from 4-6pm at the East Campus 1st Floor Aerobic Room.
Sunday, November 6
Fusion Dance Auditions Fusion is looking for talented, creative, and dedicated individuals to join their team. Come dance to a selection of choreography and freestyle at 5:00pm in UC 337A. Kean Pride Discover yourself as well as others at Kean Pride in UC 337B at 9pm. How Free is Free Speech: Will We Defend It When We Are Offended? Anthony Lewis, columnist for the New York Times, will delivery trenchant commentary and sign price-reduced copies of his book at 8pm in the University Center Little Theatre.
Thursday, November 3 NJ Nets vs. Houston Rockets Sign ups begins at 9am for the U.A.B. bus trip for the Saturday 10.12.05 game. Sign up in Student Org’s office located in University Center, room 321. Lambda Tau Omega Sorority Inc. The enchanting mermaids invite you to their interest meeting in the Center for Academic Success Room 413 at 6:30pm. Students for Solidarity and Justice Join us in our fight against injustice in the world. Come to out meeting from 8-10pm in Hennings Hall room 233. The Miss Education of Jenna Bush Melissa Rauch plays the president’s rebellious daughter in this comedic performance at 8pm in the University Center Little Theatre.
Lambda Theta Alpha Come learn about this sorority at their interest meeting in UC 346 from 8-9 pm. RSA Meeting General body meeting at 10:30pm in Whiteman Hall lounge.
FOOTBALL Sat. Nov. 5 Sat. Nov. 12
Women and the Politics of War Join our lectures from 11:00AM – 12:30PM in UC 226 and from 3:30PM – 5:00PM in Kean Hall 127. Kean Athletic Training Workshop In Campus School West Room 109 from 3:30-4:50pm. Muslim Students Association Come be a part of the Muslim Student Association at 3:30pm in UC 337A. Pan-African Student Association Come share your needs and interests at the P.A.S.U. meeting in University Center Room 228 from 3:30-4:50pm. Tri-Beta Biology Club Come join the Biology Club from 3:304:50pm in Bruce Hall room 109. FREE Self Defense Class Learn how to protect yourself from 4-6pm at the East Campus 1st Floor Aerobic Room.
Western Connecticut State University The College of New Jersey
Wed. Nov. 2 Sat. Nov. 5
Accounting Society Come join the accounting society in their first meeting of the year at 3:30pm in Willis 213.
WOMEN’S SOCCER
Kean Gospel Choir Wilkins Theatre Room 141 from 3:30-4:50pm.
Monday, November 7
OVERALL: 3-4
Wednesday, November 2
American Marketing Association Sharpen your marketing skills, explore leadership opportunities, plan club activities, explore professional development and careers and hear from marketing professionals at 3:30pm in University Center , room 346.
Catholic Mass Come celebrate mass in the University Center Pre-Function Lobby at 8pm.
COUGAR ATHLETICS
MEN’S SOCCER
African Student Association Our goal is to celebrate, educate, enlighten and share the beauty that is African culture. All students are welcome to share this common interest at 3:30pm in UC 337B.
Jewish Film Series From the Golden Age of Yiddish Cinema: Tevye der Milkhiker (Tevye the Dairyman) curated and moderated by Dr. Eric A. Goldman in the University Center Little Theatre at 2pm. All seats $5. For more information, please call the Jewish Studies Program at (908) 737-4256.
Tues. Nov. 1 Fri. Nov. 4
OVERALL: 8-7-4
NJAC Tournament Semifinals NJAC Tournament Championship Cham hip OVERALL: RALL: 10-5-1
NJAC Tournament Semifinals NJAC Tournament Championship pionshi
NJAC: 1-3 Away - 1PM PM Home me - 1PM 1PM NJAC: AC: 2-4-2 2 TBA A TBA BA NJAC: 6-2 TBA TBA
CROSS COUNTRY Sat. Nov. 5 Sat. Nov. 13
ECAC Championships NCAA Div. III Atl. Reg Reg. Cham Championships ionshi
Waterford, CT - 12PM Rochesters, NY - 11AM
FIELD HOCKEY CK
OVERALL: VERA 11-5 -5
NJAC: 2-3
TENNIS NIS
OVERALL: 2-7
NJAC: 0-5
VOLLEYBALL EYBAL
OVERALL: L: 13 13-15
NJAC: 2-5
Tues. Nov. 1 Thur. Nov. 3 Sat. Nov. 5
NJAC To Tournament First Round N NJAC Tournament Semifinals N NJAC Tournament Championships
TBA TBA TBA
For updated scores and schedules, please visit http://www.keanathletics.com.
FOR T HE KE AN UNI V E RS I T Y S T UDE NT CO MM U N I T Y
University Center 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 UC COMPUTER LAB Monday-Thursday 9 am - 11 pm Friday 9 am - 9 pm Saturday 10 am - 7 pm Sunday 10 am - 10 pm DOUGALL COMPUTER LAB 24 Hours MARKETPLACE Monday-Thursday Friday
9 am - 7 pm 9 am - 4 pm
BOOKSTORE Monday-Friday
P: (908) 737-5230 9 am - 6 pm
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 Downs Hall Dining Breakfast 7 am - 9:30 am Lunch 11 am - 1:30 pm Dinner 4:15 pm - 6:45 pm Weekend Brunch 11am - 1:30pm
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
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 Hours Subject to Change
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The COUGAR’S Byte
October 31, 2005
Spotlight On The Kean Dance Theatre (KDT) By Ashante’ S. Barnes, Staff Writer o you like to dance? Well you should check out Kean Dance Theatre (KDT) a funded group of Student Organization of Kean University, Inc. On Monday October 3, 2005 at 3:30 KDT held their first audition session of the year. More than forty young women and men filled the dance studio in D’Angola Gym. The help of a professional choreographer who filled the atmosphere with a soft jazz/hip hop selection served as a pure delight for spectators. The students were all very talented and very open to suggestions of the professional staff, advisors and KDT executive board members. It makes no difference your level of training, style or background. KDT is for all students who love to dance as long as you have the desire to learn and commit yourself to the rehearsals. KDT is also looking for people who are interested in designing and creating costumes, taking pictures, creating posters and videotaping concerts.
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KDT recently performed at the homecoming football game halftime show; it was a great success. Scott Snowden senior Public Administration and History Major said “it was very impressive and must have taken a lot of hard work and dedication”. While Celenia Rodriguez Junior Accounting major and KDT Member said “personally it was very good and everyone was energized and on point with dance moves”. On October 30, 2005 they performed at The Jersey Gardens Malls in Elizabeth, NJ. KDT’s mission is to increase knowledge, improve skills and encourage sound professional practices in dance while promoting and supporting creative projects through high quality dance programs. KDT’s goal is to provide students with an opportunity to perform in diverse, quality
programs that are choreographed by faculty, guest artist and students themselves. KDT offers students the opportunity to attend dance festivals and professional dance concerts, as well as dance workshops and classes taught by guest master
Rich Lemonie | The Cougar’s Byte
teachers of various dance forms. It is very easy to get involved, KDT meets every Monday and Wednesday during college hour between 3:30-5:00pm at the D’Angola Gym in room 107 (Dance
(top) KDT invigorates the crowd with their amazing halftime performance during the Homecoming football game. (left) Dancers following the lead of a professional choreographer during KDT tryouts. (bottom) After rehearsal Vanessa Gasper, Kim Gonnella, and Stephanie Schiavo take time out for a picture.
Studio). They begin with a twenty minute company class and warm-up and then rehearse repertoire pieces and new dances.
Ashante’ S. Barnes | The Cougar’s Byte
In Memory
KU Object Speaks Out...Again
By Kaitlyn Davies, Staff Writer
At the start of the vigil, YWCA Executive Director, Andrea L. Spencer-Linzie welcomed everybody and introduced Dr. Dawood Farahi. Dr. Farahi spoke about how domestic violence knows no boundaries; the numbers are identical for all races. He also stated that there are three ways to help stop domestic violence. “People need to know that it’s not the right thing to do,
The main point of the vigil was to inform people that domestic violence can be against men and women alike. The councilwoman went on to stress that, “violence is not the solution to any problem.” Family and friends spoke on behalf of the victims who lost their lives. Mr. Tony Thompson talked about his dear friend Deanna
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By Angela M. Barrett, Staff Writer was inspired to voice my opinion when I read the last issue of The Cougars Byte. An acquaintance of mine, the Gazebo, spoke about how neglected she tends to feel. I think the Gazebo is lucky to have her alone moments. I never get a second to myself. I’m engulfed with so much all at one time. The Gazebo thinks she helps Kean University go round? KU wouldn’t operate as smoothly if I became nonexistent.
I Rich Lemonie | The Cougar’s Byte
Taylor Banks who died at the age of 36; she was a teacher at the Calvin Coolidge School in Hillside. Judy McCartney spoke about her sister who died on September 16, 1997 at the age of 38. She left behind a daughter who is now in college. Judy said, “No family wants to wear the badge of domestic violence but mine does. No body brags about being abused, this is no joke.” Susan Halmi sang Beautiful accompanied by Vincent DuBeau on the piano, which had an emotional impact on many, who broke down and cried for their lost loved ones. The following segment was on survivors; two women who survived being abused spoke about their experiences which were both eye opening and inspirational. A poem entitled Stuck in a Storm was read by Patience Smith, Sue Lynnelto, and Jennifer Principe.
As you enter hands-free, I have the best security protection on campus waiting to greet you in attack mode if anyone makes the wrong move. However the sentinel doesn’t mind if you bask in his presence in the seating area. If you need to use a central processing unit, I have a whole collection of them waiting for usage. On top of that, where else would you go to savor nourishment or enhance the thinking lines that already exist on your forehead? When your funds are low, where else would you go to increase your cash flow? Different organizations use me to promote, produce, and project their merrymakings.
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people have to learn to respect each other, and people have to speak up.” He continued on to explain the great collaborations that are made between Kean University and the YWCA and how they are helping to put an end to domestic v i o l e n c e . Lynn Kelly, YWCA Community Relations Coordinator, then introduced Councilwoman Patricia Perkins to speak on behalf of the Mayor of Elizabeth, J.Christian Bollwage. The councilwoman spoke about the upsetting fact that there are three million victims each year, and how domestic violence permeates worldwide. Domestic violence is a brutality that affects everyone - those who are fighting, the police officers who have to try their best to prevent it, and of course, the families that are shattered in the background. Some people involved in the situation carry on the cycle of violence into their adult life because they haven’t had the chance to deal with it.
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ere’s a scary statistic: did you know that one out of three women will be affected by domestic violence at some point of their lives? Domestic violence has become a worldwide problem spanning all social classes and cultures. That’s why the YWCA held its Annual Candlelight Vigil on Wednesday October 19th, to make people aware of this silent crime and to help combat this ongoing problem. Joel Thomas, chairman of the event, had three specific points that he wanted to get across to the people who attended. Joel said, “Number one, honor the lives of the men, women, and children who have been affected by domestic violence. Number two, celebrate the spirit of survival. Number three, connect those who work to end violence.” Creating a strong network is all it takes to save a life.
Ashante’ S. Barnes, junior Public Administration major with a minor in Training and Development, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.
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After all the readings, the crowd gathered outside in front of the University Center for the candlelight vigil. Everyone gathered in a circle with candles lit and many called out the names of people who they had lost to the tragedy of domestic violence. Candles were then blown out, and the evening was brought to an end. The night was an eye opener because not many people know that domestic violence is the single most cause of injuries to women - more than auto accidents, rapes, and muggings combined. As citizens of the world, it is our duty to see that domestic violence is brought to an end; anyone can make a difference. If you would like more information on how you can help please contact Joel Thomas at thomasj@kean.edu. Kaitlyn Davies, freshman Political Science major, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.
V IS IT OUR O NL I NE E DI T I O N AT WWW. CO UG ARSB Y T E . C O M
I have the best couch potatoes grown to perfection where they lay immobile before or after class. I pay homage to Greeks on a daily basis and sometimes they speak within little groups around my center of operations. When school work becomes overwhelming students can always exert some energy in my realm of playtime. After a long day of productivity students leave me while making their footprints on Kean University. Angela M. Barrett, sophomore Communications major, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.