Kean University - The Cougar's Byte - October 2, 2018

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GET YOURSELF TESTED STUDENT

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An Active Student With Many Ambitions »Page 7

VOLUME 15| ISSUE 2

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TUESDAY | OCTOBER 2 | 2017

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Homecoming 2018: Return Of The Cougars

A glimpse at all the activities that promise to make this year's homecoming weekend great Zoe Strozewski

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Staff Writer

his year's homecoming festivities are taking place from Wednesday, Oct. 17 to Sunday, Oct. 21. This year’s theme is a blast from the past that aims to delight the young and old alike: Star Wars.

Student Organization's Homecoming Concert is kicking off homecoming week. The concert will take place on Wednesday, Oct. 17, at 8 p.m. in Wilkins Theatre. Kean student tickets will be on sale at the Wilkins Theatre Box Office for $20 each The following night on Thursday, Oct. 18, the Kean University Greek Senate will be hosting the Homecoming Party in Downs Hall from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. Tickets will be sold through the Wilkins Theatre Box Office.

On Friday, Oct 19, the Student Organization P.U.L.S.E. Programming Board will be hosting a pep rally in Harwood Arena. This is taking place at 6 p.m. and will include introductions of Kean’s athletic teams, as well as various competitions and performances to boost school spirit.

Liberty Hall is also hosting multiple events throughout the weekend. Ghost Tours, in which museum staff will speak of their paranormal experiences and lead guests on a candlelit tour, will be given Friday, Oct. 19. In order to attend one of these tours, interested students must either call 908-527-0400 or visit kean. edu/libertyhall/ to make reservations.

There will also be four showings of “Black Tom Island,” a play about the United States first recorded terrorist attack in Jersey City from the perspective of two Slovak

immigrants. These showings will take place in the Carriage House at 8 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 19; 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 20; and 3 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 21. Anyone who wishes to attend must call (908) 737-7469 to make a reservation.

On both Saturday and Sunday, Liberty Hall will be participating in “Four Centuries in a Weekend,” a Union county-sponsored event in which all historical house museums are going to be giving free tours. Saturday’s free hours will be 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., while Sunday’s free hours will be noon to 5 p.m.

Kean’s Theatre Conservatory is also featuring one of its final productions of “Blood Wedding” on Friday night.

This play tells the tragic story of two Spanish families in the midst of a love triangle and an arranged marriage, and will be taking place at 8 p.m. in the Zella Fry Theatre.

The Student Tailgate will be on Saturday, Oct. 20 at 10 a.m. in the Harwood Arena parking lot, while the Homecoming Carnival will be starting a half hour later at the Kean Hall Lot. Like in past years, the carnival will give students the chance to celebrate the day with inflatable rides, games, food, and prizes.

Next on the day’s agenda is the Homecoming game. The football team will be facing off against William Patterson at 1 p.m. in the Alumni Stadium. Kean’s field hockey and women’s soccer teams will have games later that day in the Alumni Stadium at 5 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. respectively.

Men’s lacrosse will host an alumni game Sunday morning at 10 a.m. on East Campus’ intramural field.

Later, Gina Chavez, a singer-songwriter and nine-time winner of the Austin Music Award, will be closing out the weekend with a performance at the Enlow Recital Hall at 3 p.m.

For a complete timeline of the weekend's events, students can visit https://www.keanfoundation.org/events/ homecoming/.

Zoe Strozewski, sophomore communication journalism major, is a member of The Cougar's Byte staff.

College of Liberal Arts Holds First Convocation

Faculty officially welcome their new students into the College of Liberal Arts

A Day to Remember

Students flooded Cougar Walk to interact with the many organizations for Kean Day

Danielle Thomas | The Cougar's Byte

Students navigate through Cougar Walk to find new clubs and organizations to join.

Danielle Thomas | The Cougar's Byte

Acting dean of The College of Liberal Arts (CLA), Jonathan Mercantini, Ph.D. giving a speech at the first annual CLA Convocation.

Shannon Sheehan

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Staff Writer

n Tuesday, Sept. 18, the College of Liberal Arts (CLA) held its first convocation in Wilkins Theatre. The purpose of this event was to welcome new and returning students to the CLA and inspire them for this academic year and the remainder of their time at Kean University.

The convocation also gave the students an opportunity to get to know their professors on a deeper level and form better relationships. Additionally, it allowed CLA students with the same major to bond and get to know each other better.

The ceremony began with a video highlighting Kean University and the CLA. Dr. Jonathan Mercantini, acting dean of the CLA gave the opening remarks

SEE "CONVOCATION" ON PAGE 5

Brandon Gervais

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Staff Writer

n Friday Sept. 14, Kean Day came to Cougar Walk. This lively event is hosted by the Miron Student Center (MSC) every fall semester and is one of the most popular events throughout the year. It allows student organizations and clubs of all types to present themselves to the student body in a fun and casual way. It gives everyone a chance to learn about all of the organizations that Kean has to offer.

Kean Day is for organizations of all kind, whether that be a club, sorority or fraternity, or student

A Leadership and Service Publication for the Kean University Student Community

group. The members have the ability to not only show why they love their organization but to learn all about other organizations as well. It is also a great opportunity for freshmen and transfer students to learn all about what Kean has to offer.

Katrina Lepage, the treasurer of the Earth Science Club, agrees. “I feel like it’s a really good opportunity to reach out not only to the freshmen class but to everyone on campus to try and get them interested and involved in our club. It also gives us the chance to learn about other clubs, too.”

SEE "KEAN DAY" ON PAGE 8

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TUESDAY | OCTOBER

KEAN UNIVERSITY

CENTER FOR LEADERSHIP AND SERVICE

2 | 2018

Jonathan Stays Prominent

Through avid involvement, Jonathan Ibarra seeks to stand out in all his ventures Caleb Lopez

Miron Student Center, Room 215 1000 Morris Avenue • Union, NJ 07083 P: (908) 737-5179 • F: (908) 737-5175 cbyte@kean.edu • www.cougarsbyte.com The Cougar’s Byte is a leadership and service newsletter where you will find up-to-theminute information on all things related to student life at Kean University. A student news publication that features University events and student activities and accomplishments, The Cougar’s Byte strengthens the overall experience of students by immersing them in the complete college culture. By increasing awareness of all aspects of campus life, students can utilize everything Kean has to offer, while networking and paving the path for their academic and social development.

Published every other Tuesday during the regular academic year, The Cougar’s Byte can be viewed both online, at www.cougarsbyte.com, and in print, distributed biweekly to over 15 campus locations on the Union and Ocean campuses of Kean University.

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.

Caleb Lopez Senior Editor lopezcal@kean.edu

Danielle Thomas Graphic Design & Marketing Manager thomasd2@kean.edu

Michael Carfagno Creative Media Manager carfagnm@kean.edu

Petruce Jean-Charles Editor jeanchap@kean.edu

Abigail Anne Rafael Editor rafaela@kean.edu

Kieffer Braisted Staff Writer braistki@kean.edu

Brandon Gervais Staff Writer gervaisb@kean.edu

Shannon Sheehan Staff Writer sheehsha@kean.edu

Zoe Strozewski

S

tudents often find themselves torn between standing out on campus or blending in. It is this dilemma that can often instill doubts inside students' minds as to whether or not they are truly making the most of their college experience here at Kean.

For Jonathan Ibarra, it was with unwavering certainty that he wanted to leave his mark on this campus.

Ibarra, a senior business management major, reflected recently on his decision to make his time at Kean as meaningful as it could be.

"My academic career has been challenging yet rewarding all at the same time, [ultimately] learning as much as I can in preparation for a long career ahead of me," Ibarra said.

This preparation for his future began when he decided to join Lambda Theta Phi Latin Fraternity, Inc. — the very same fraternity that had only one active brother at the time.

"We faced a lot of adversity, but we decided to take on the challenge and make a change," Ibarra said. "I wanted to make a name for myself, for my organization."

Within a year, Ibarra and company transformed Lambda Theta Phi from a zero star chapter into a five star chapter. Despite this tremendous accomplishment, Ibarra maintained a humble spirit.

"I honestly couldn’t have accomplished anything in the organization without the huge support of my right hand man, Lucas Lopez," said Ibarra.

Graphic Design Specialist incao@kean.edu

Christopher Del Prete Creative Media Specialist delpretc@kean.edu

Noah Dobson Creative Media Specialist dobsonn@kean.edu

Mary Linen Creative Media Specialist linenm@kean.edu

Martin Alonso

Graduate Assistant, The Cougar's Byte

Scott K. Snowden Jr.

Director, Center for Leadership and Service

Danielle Thomas | The Cougar's Byte

Jonathan 's goals include receiving his master's degree and owning his own company. to fill his spare time with volunteering.

He even skipped out on the fun-filled possibilities of spring break and served on the alternate spring break trip. Amidst the many service events he has participated in, Habitat For Humanity stands out as his favorite.

Through his undying commitment and resilience, Ibarra is now the president of Lambda Theta Phi. Although Ibarra was not hesitant to join a Greek organization, a majority of students on campus tend to have a substantial level of uncertainty. Ibarra kindly prompts individuals to take advantage of the Greek organizations on campus.

"When I volunteered I saw how much of a change I was actually making," Ibarra said. "Maybe I didn’t see it right there at the moment, but I know someone out there was thankful for the food prepared at the food bank or the things that were built during a Habitat For Humanity [outreach]. A big lesson I learned is that it’s not simply volunteering. It’s us serving people that truly need it."

"For someone that is uncertain about Greek life, I definitely recommend checking out all of the organizations, seeing what they all have to offer and choosing which one they feel the most comfortable with," Ibarra said. "[Also it is] always [important to] think ahead. There’s much more to Greek life than just the undergraduate [years]."

Ibarra was hailed Volunteer of the Year and Outstanding New Greek Member of the Year.

Moreover, he was inducted into the Order of Omega National Honor Society, an undergraduate Greek society that recognizes fraternity and sorority members who display top-tier leadership in all Greek matters.

Ibarra further emphasizes that joining a Greek organization is not a trivial matter.

"If and when the [student] does choose an organization, one must realize that it isn’t just about the letters across your chest. It’s a commitment to represent and better the organization in the best way that you can."

Another testament to Ibarra's involvement on campus and in the community is his frequent volunteerism.

Whether it is helping out at the Community Food Bank, assisting at open houses or being environmentally focused at the Adopt-a-Park outreaches, Ibarra tends

"I never would have imagined myself doing the work I’m doing now. Although I received such recognition and awards, I never did it to chase the awards. I did it because I felt like I had to put in work [both] inside and outside the classroom, and it had to be done," Ibarra said.

Sue Figueroa, the managing assistant director for community service and civic engagement, is the Greek adviser for Ibarra. Throughout the years of getting to know him, Figueroa has witnessed Ibarra’s tremendous growth as an all-around individual.

“Jonathan started off as a commuter student who decided that he was going to become more involved

at Kean University. I remember the first time we met and how he shared that, although he commuted and worked, he wanted to immerse himself in the Kean Community in a more meaningful way,” Figueroa said.

Ibarra continues to be considerably involved and diligent throughout his time here at Kean, and he plans to carry this top-notch work ethic over into his future endeavors.

"My career goals include hopefully achieving my master's degree in the next years after graduation, and I would one day like to achieve my goal of managing my own company. I hope that, with the experience I currently have with working in my family business, I will [be able to] obtain my goal."

To Ibarra, Kean University has indubitably prepared him for his future. Ibarra mentioned that every student experiences trials and triumphs throughout their academic career, which ultimately transforms them into better students and individuals alike.

All in all, Jonathan Ibarra sets the bar for students who are devoted to being active on campus and in the community. It is through his dedication and desire to serve that he is able to continuously be a prominent student on campus, one whom others can aspire to be.

For more information on Lambda Theta Phi, please visit their Cougar Link webpage. Also, if one is interested in service opportunities, visit the Center for Leadership and Service (CLS) in the Miron Student Center (MSC), Room 219 or visit Cougar Link for all the available service trips.

Caleb Lopez, senior psychology major, is a member of The Cougar's Byte staff.

Black Tom Island Comes To Kean

Premiere Stages presents a play on the first terrorist attack on American soil

Staff Writer strozewz@kean.edu

Omar Inca

Senior Editor

Brandon Gervais rom Thursday, Oct. 11 to Sunday, Oct. 21 at Liberty Hall Museum, Premiere Stages at Kean University will present Martin Casella's Black Tom Island.

pre-show discussion of the events with Bill Schroh, Jr., Liberty Hall’s Director of Museum Operations, on Oct. 13 at 5 p.m., and a post-show discussion with Mr. Casella following the performance on Oct. 14 at 3 p.m. Audience members who are attending the matinee performances of Black Tom Island Oct. 20 and Oct. 21 can also enjoy a free tour of the museum’s first floor.

Black Tom Island is a play based on the first recorded terrorist attack on American soil in 1916 in Jersey City, New Jersey. Taking place in Liberty Hall Museum's 1882 Carriage House, Black Tom Island further pursues Premiere Stages and Liberty Hall Museum's joint goal of educating the community of New Jersey's unique and extensive history.

Premiere Stages works with Kean University to provide the Kean community with performances that help to educate students on local history as well as exploring other cultures. The cast of Black Tom Island will feature an accomplished cast of actors with extensive successful resumes including Damian Buzzerio, Mason Hensley, Bart Shatto and Jenna Krasowski.

“While the attack on Black Tom Island happened 100 years ago, the play’s subject matter is surprisingly topical,” stated John J. Wooten, founder and producing artistic director of Premiere Stages. “And what makes Marty’s study of an immigrant couple’s acclimation to America all the more fascinating is that it is based on a true story, and it is effectively dramatized against the backdrop of a lost New Jersey island.”

Tickets are available at the Premiere Stages website costing $15 for students and disabled persons, $20 for senior citizen, Kean alumni and staff and $30 for general public. Groups of eight or more can apply for discounted group tickets on the Premiere Stage website. To purchase, please call the box office at (908) 737-7469 or visit Premiere Stages online.

Wooten works as the producing artistic director at Premiere Stages and has produced, directed and developed many amazing works including The Beautiful Dark, The Good Counselor and Follow Me to Nellie’s. The listed works have all been honored by the American Theatre Critics Association. Early this year, Wooten directed the critically acclaimed premiere of Craig Garcia’s Linger, winner of the 2018 Premiere Play Festival.

Tickets are also available for Premiere Stages’ exclusive Black Tom Island Opening Night Party Friday, Oct. 12. This event begins at 6 p.m. with live music and refreshments. During this opening night party event, patrons are welcome to explore a Liberty Hall Museum candlelit tour at 7 p.m.

F

Staff Writer

The play was written by actor and writer Martin Casella, best known for his role in the original Poltergeist. Casella is a successful name in the film and TV industries, working and writing for projects on HBO, CBS, ABC, Disney, Universal, and Warner Brothers. Casella’s plays include The Report, Beautiful Dreamer, and the Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD) nominated The Irish Curse.

His most recent achievement is the teleplay for the film The Land of Sometimes.

The audience will be offered an opportunity to interact with the subject with a

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Following the opening night performance at 8 p.m., the evenings festivities will conclude with a champagne toast and dessert reception with the cast and creative team. Proceeds from the evening will benefit future programming, supporting emerging artists and plays. Tickets are $100 and may be purchased by calling (908) 737-7469 or emailing ticket@kean.edu.

Brandon Gervais, sophomore English education double major, is a member of The Cougar's Byte staff.

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TUESDAY | OCTOBER

2 | 2018

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Activities For Cancer Awareness Month Highlighting the events and activities hosted by the school throughout October Zoe Strozewski

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Staff Writer

ince 1985, the United States has recognized October as National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. In honor of this designation, Kean will be holding various events throughout the month in order to raise awareness of the disease and funds for finding a cure.

Every bake-off will take place in the MSC Atrium at 10 a.m. The dates of all the Breast Cancer Awareness Bake-Offs are as follows: ■ Wednesday, Oct. 3 ■ Thursday, Oct. 4 ■ Tuesday Oct. 9 ■ Wednesday, Oct. 10 ■ Friday, Oct. 12

The Breast Cancer Awareness Month Kickoff, hosted by the Center for Leadership and Service (CLS), is taking place in the Miron Student Center (MSC) Atrium Monday, Oct. 1 from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. This event will feature various games where students can win prizes and make donations. The kickoff will also give students the chance to register for the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk, purchase “Kean Blue Thinks Pink” t-shirts and hoodies (proceeds will go to the American Cancer Society), make a contribution to a poster about who each student is walking for, and learn how to conduct a breast exam on themselves.

This year’s Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk will occur Sunday, Oct. 21 at Johnson Park in Piscataway, New Jersey. All students, employees, alumni and guests are welcome to dress in pink and join together in this culmination of the month’s efforts. Registration for the walk can be completed on Cougar Link for students and the American Cancer Society’s Making Strides Walk website for any non-students.

CLS will also be holding several Breast Cancer Awareness Bake-Offs. These bake-offs allow teams of students to compete against each other to craft the best treats and raise the most money in preparation for the Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk.

The Sigma Beta Chi sorority is also conducting some fundraising efforts of their own in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. They will be hosting a event called “Kiss Away Cancer” in the MSC Atrium from 3 to 4:15 p.m. Thursday, Oct.

■ Wednesday, Oct. 17 ■ Thursday, Oct. 18

11. Students will be able to choose from a variety of lipstick colors that represent different types of cancer, and then apply the lipstick and kiss a poster inscribed with the name of the event. Anyone who wishes to kiss the poster must make a donation, but the size of that donation is completely up to the participant.

Anyone who is unable to attend any of these events but still wishes to make a difference this month should visit Kean’s team page on the American Cancer Society website. This page allows students to join Kean’s Making Strides team and donate to the cause for the duration of October.

The “Kean Blue Thinks Pink” apparel will also be on sale for the whole month from CLS in MSC, Room 219.

For more information on any of these events, student can visit the pages for each host organization on Cougar Link.

2019 2020

Begin Your FAFSA

FAFSA Free Application for Federal Student Aid

OCT

1

Beginning October 1, 2018, all students may begin completing their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) for the 2019-2020 academic year online at fafsa.gov.

KEAN UNIVERSITY SCHOOL CODE: 002622

Don’t delay, apply today!

Zoe Strozewski, freshman communication journalism major, is a member of The Cougar's Byte staff.

OFFICE OF

FINANCIAL AID

Involvement Week Recap

Student groups participated in multiple challenges and games for the ultimate prize Brandon Gervias

I

Staff Writer

Kieffer Braisted Staff Writer

Abigail Anne Rafael Editor

nvolvement Week lasted from Sept. 18 to Sept. 28 with a bevy of events for students and student groups to participate in. Student groups participated in Involvement Games for the chance to win the following prizes: $500 for first place, $250 for second place and a pizza party for third place.

To kick off Involvement Week, "Shazam It!" featured students competing head-to-head against the app across various musical genres to see who the true music connoisseurs were.

Hosted by the Center for Leadership and Service, the game show was held Tuesday, Sept. 18 in the Cougar's Den from 7 to 9 p.m.

In the show, contestants competed for points, which they could trade in for Kean apparel from the bookstore.

To win points, two contestants from either team met on stage, and a song played for up to 20 seconds. Competing against both each other and Shazam, the contestants would then buzz in when they felt that they knew the song in question.

Involvement Center in the Miron Student Center (MSC), Room 303, where the game was set up to have their chance at testing their luck.

The Deal or No Deal computer game was featured on a wall-mounted TV. Students were prompted by the Deal or No Deal simulation to reserve one of the 26 cases, each containing anywhere from $0.01 to $1,000,000.

Two points were awarded per song if correct. If the answer was incorrect, the opposing contestant would have a chance to steal the points. If neither guess correctly, Shazam would keep the points.

Afterward students went through the remaining 25 cases to eliminate the different cash deals held in each case. Every time a case's cash amount was revealed, an anonymous banker would offer a competitive deal for the player to consider. It was up to the student representative to either accept the deal from the anonymous banker or to stick with their initial case in the hopes that it would have a better cash value.

Ironically, Shazam won the event in overall points. However, due to Shazam being an app that is unable to claim the prizes, the losing students took advantage instead.

■ Naming the username of the Involvement Center's social media accounts

Friday, Sept. 18 marked the beginning of Involvement Week's scavenger hunt.

■ Naming Kean University's most frequently used hashtag ■ Listing two ways a student can partake in community service

Students were invited to visit the Involvement Center in the Miron Student Center (MSC), Room 303 to receive a copy of the scavenger hunt quiz. The quiz had a variety of prompts for students including:

The scavenger hunt was available for students to complete until Involvement Week ended Friday, Sept. 28. Upon completion, students were able to revisit the Involvement Center to earn their prize.

■ Getting to know three involved students and listing what student groups they are a part of

The Center for Leadership and Service (CLS) held a beach volleyball tournament for this year's Involvement Games Wednesday, Sept. 19 at the Miron Student Center Volleyball Sandpit.

■ Picking up a copy of The Cougar's Byte ■ Listing four ways students can engage in the Kean campus community ■ Listing four types of categories a student group can fall in ■ Naming one of the theatres on the Kean Union campus

Contestants were fortunate to have a beautiful, sunny day as they challenged each other to qualify for the volleyball finals Wednesday, Sept. 26. Each round was two matches to 15 points and each team was allowed three to four players. Some students interested in volleyball who did not belong to any particular student group were also allowed to play on behalf of any student organization that they wanted.

Every competing team gave their best as members dove, set, hit and dug to make every point. The following are the final results of each challenging match up: ■ Round 1: Catholic Newman Club defeated Wenzhou-Kean University Student Association.

■ Round 2: Catholic Newman Club defeated Filipinos Uniting Nations at Kean.

■ Round 3: Catholic Newman Club tied Gamma Psi Epsilon.

Good work to everyone who played and congratulations to Catholic Newman Club and Gamma Psi Epsilon for winning!

On Tuesday, Sept. 25 students participated in a game of Deal or No Deal.

Student representatives of organizations were encouraged to come to the

Shammi Ahmed, script master of Cougars in Motion, said, "[Deal or No Deal] was really fun and having my other club members here made it even more fun because they where cheering me on."

The next Involvement Game was Minute 2 Win It, an event that was held Sept. 26 for student groups to engage in fun activities and challenges in hopes of adding points for their group. Minute 2 Win It consisted of a series of minute long challenges that participants must complete under that minute time frame. If they are able to complete the task, they receive points towards their Involvement Games total.

Each participant was given seven challenges. First, students had to stack Jenga blocks on a Popsicle stick, sticking out from their mouths. The next Minute 2 Win It challenge was to flip a half-filled water bottle into the air and have it stand.

While the first few challenges were simple, it became more challenging as they were deeper into the tasks. The two most difficult tasks were to transfer cotton balls from a bowl into a plate using only the participant's nose and to stack cups with paper dividers while removing the papers without having the cup tower collapse.

The students who took on the Minute 2 Win It challenges were having a great time and the event consisted of laughs and positive energy.

Overall, Involvement Week was a fun-filled time on campus that elevated the interaction among students and student groups.

For more information on the Involvement Center, please visit their webpage or contact them at (909) 737-5270.

Brandon Gervais, sophomore English education double major, is a member of The Cougar's Byte staff. Kieffer Braisted, junior communication major, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff. Abigail Anne Rafael, a sophomore communication public relations major, is a member of The Cougar's Byte staff.

A Leadership and Service Publication for the Kean University Student Community

PAGE 4

TUESDAY | OCTOBER

Let The Test Begin!

Stay healthy and informed by getting yourself tested for STDs Kieffer Braisted

A

Staff Writer

responsible way to look out for oneself and fellow adults alike is by getting tested for STDs and STIs.

Kean University offers students, staff, faculty and alumni access to free testing events throughout the academic year to promote positive sexual health practices and keep the campus community healthy and safe.

Student Health Services (SHS) will be hosting their monthly STD/STI testing events in Downs Hall, Room 126 from 12:30 to 4:30 pm on Wednesday, Oct. 3, Friday, Nov. 13 and Wednesday, Dec. 5.

Last year, the event took place in the Miron Student Center. However, this change of location to Downs Hall increases the level of privacy for students who attend. This is to ensure that the experience is as private and comfortable as possible for students.

Get Yourself Tested Days is a series of monthly STD/STI/HIV testing events aimed at both informing the campus on the importance of sexual hygiene and on how to get oneself tested confidentially and safely.

At the testing event, procedures offered include free HIV and other testing at $9.50 a test and syphilis testing at $6.00 a test, which is standard state lab pricing. Insurance plans may be used to cover the costs of the testing. Attendees may choose to take whichever test(s) they desire.

Please let it be noted that it is the students' responsibility to have registered and verified their insurance coverage information with the

GYT

A Fun Way To Be Flu Free

The flu challenge aims to spread awareness about the flu in an interesting way

GET YOURSELF TESTED STUDENT

HEALTH SERVICES

school prior to attending the events.

New to monthly testing this year is the addition of the ability to prescribe PrEP for HIV protection through SHS. PrEP stands for Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis, which is used in HIV negative individuals to help prevent the continued spread of the disease. PrEP is approved by the FDA and has been shown to be a safe and effective method at preventing HIV infection.

Attendance is encouraged for any and everybody interested. However, if one is not be able to make it to the event, it should be noted that SHS offers STD/STI/HIV testing yearround on an appointment basis.

Moreover, additional information will be available to those that wish to seek help or

assistance in attaining more information regarding sexual health and practices.

Professionals from Student Health Services will be glad to field any potential questions or concerns. Furthermore, the health professionals are a great resource for helpful tips and advice on surviving college in a healthy and positive way and will be glad to assist with whatever one may need regarding their health.

Those interested in how to make an appointment online through the SHS Portal can access information online at www.kean. edu/offices/student-health-services/scheduleappointment.

Kieffer Braisted, junior communication major, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.

The One Stop Destination to Success

The One Stop Service Center recently relocated to the the first floor of CAS and is here to aid students to success Shannon Sheehan

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2 | 2018

One service that may be useful for commuter students is processing train and NJ Transit verification forms. Services that could be useful for freshmen or new transfer students include providing copies of program evaluations for transfer student and the approval of ZipCar requests, which could benefit freshmen that are not allowed to have their car on campus. One Stop also provides enrollment verificaiton to students.

Staff Writer

he One Stop Service Center recently changed location to the first floor of the Maxine & Jack Lane Center for Academic Success (CAS). At this new central location, the staff is more than willing to resolve any student concerns and aid in resolving student issues.

Petruce Jean-Charles

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Editor

ttention all students, flu season is here! In order to increase awareness and spread knowledge of the flu, the New Jersey Department of Health (NJDOH) Vaccine Preventable Disease Program (VPDP) implemented the inaugural New Jersey College and University Flu Challenge.

Kean University will be participating in the challenge this year along with other New Jersey colleges and universities statewide to give insight onto the vaccination rates of college-aged students.

The challenge was enforced to increase the awareness and consciousness surrounding the significance of a flu vaccination for college students.

Robin Mansfield, the director of Student Health Services, acknowledges that the flu challenge will aid in higher numbers of students getting vaccinations.

"The New Jersey Department of Health wanted to raise awareness of the flu vaccine for college students, because college students are one of the lowest portions of the population that actually gets vaccinated.

So their idea was to create this challenge to bring a little competition and to encourage students to get their flu shot," said Mansfield.

Mansfield also wants students to understand that the vaccine will decrease one's risk of getting the flu, which can last from 8 to 10 days.

"Our whole perspective in Student Health Services is to improve your chances for academic success, keeping you healthy so that you are able to be successful," said Mansfield.

Furthermore, a National Foundation of Infectious Diseases (NFID) survey was conducted in Oct. 2017 for college students 18 to 24 years old who were currently attending a 2-year or 4-year college or university. The survey found that 70 percent of college students in the United States believe it is important to get an annual influenza vaccine, and about 46 percent say they typically get vaccinated.

One Stop is essentially a hub One Stop also has a lot of services of information regarding Kean to benefit upcoming graduates.

University. They have the ability to For example, they have diploma answer questions and aid students in Shannon Sheehan | The Cougar's Byte pick-up, accept graduation and topics such as financial aid, student certification applications and accounting, course registration and The One Stop Service Center representatives are always provide degree verification request. much more. If they are for some ready and willing to help students meet their needs. reason unable to answer a certain A list of the rest of One Stop’s question or provide help on a services, according to their webpage, includes: certain topic, they will be sure to point one in the direction of someone who could better assist them. Their overall goal is to guide students to ■■ Registration for course(s) success here at Kean University.

■■ Registration for Independent Study or Internship (supporting documentation required) * “The idea of One Stop is to be exactly that: one stop," said Joseph ■■ Course(s) Drops Flemming, a One Stop professional.

■■ Withdrawal from the University (must see Retention specialist) ■■ Providing referrals to other departments They are focused on helping students at their easiest convenience, which ■■ Answering various questions pertaining to Financial Aid is why they have relocated to this central location. Additionally, this is ■■ Assisting students with adding and dropping courses during why they are well-versed in many aspects of Kean University and have a registration periods big collection of knowledge to satisfy every student that needs it.

■■ Assisting newly admitted, transfer, second degree, and re-admitting Flemming also explained that One Stop acts as a liaison between students students with their “next steps” and the various offices of Kean University. Instead of students having to ■■ Official Transcript pick up go out of their way to different offices to ask questions or give paperwork, ■■ Accepting tuition waiver forms and supplement documentation the One Stop has the ability to do this for the students. It is a central ■■ Processing add/drop forms obtained from Dean’s office location for all of this information, and now it is actually located in an ■■ Considering student appeals/petitions submissions easy, central location in CAS. ■■ Printing unofficial transcript requests ■■ Processing change of Major/Minor status change (forms must be At One Stop, there are student navigators to assist in resolving student signed) questions and concerns. They have a lot of knowledge to offer including ■■ Stamping University Seal for official departmental documents — but not limited to — registration, change of major, graduate student ■■ Processing Grade Recalculation submission services, financial aid, student accounting and much more. They are ■■ Processing all registration petitions, drop/add and credit overload certainly more than willing to answer any questions or point one in the forms right direction to someone else who will best be able to help.

■■ Processing Pass/Fail and Audit requests

As per this survey, it shows that young adults have been shown to have lower flu immunization rates compared to other ages, making it less accessible for students.

For any more information regarding the One Stop Service Center and the services they provide, please feel free to reach out by email at regme@ kean.edu, by phone (908) 73-REGME or by visiting them at their new convenient location in CAS.

For more information about the challenge or any other health related questions, students can visit the Student Health Services webpage on the Kean website, email rmansfie@kean.edu or call the office at (908) 737-4880.

Since One Stop has the ability to help students in various topics, many may be confused on all of the services they offer. One of the lesser known services is KeanWise training for students. They also help students with permission from their school's Dean to withdraw from courses once registration has closed. Many students may not know that this is an option for them, but One Stop is more than willing to help students with this.

Shannon Sheehan, sophomore communication journalism major, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.

/cougarsbyte

www.cougarsbyte.com

According to the NFID, "Access to the vaccine at low or no cost (61 percent) and incentives, such as free food or gift cards (61 percent), were among the top offerings that students say would have a lot of impact on the likelihood of getting vaccinated."

Kean students will be asked to self-report their vaccination status via a short six question online survey. The institution with the highest percentage of vaccination coverage based on undergraduate student population will be presented with a traveling trophy from the NJDOH. The Student Heath Services will be providing six on-campus flu vaccine days including: ■■ Oct. 2 - Vaccine Day will be held in the MSC from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. with other required vaccines ■■ Oct. 25 - Flu Clinic will be held in Downs Hall from 2 to 6 p.m.

■■ Nov. 7 - Vaccine Day will be held in the MSC from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m with other required vaccines available ■■ Nov. 27 - Flu Clinic will be held in the Miron Student Center (MSC) from 2 to 6 p.m.

■■ Dec. 11 - Flu Clinic will be held in Downs Hall from 2 to 6 p.m.

With the flu challenge just starting, Mansfield and the Student Health Services Department are hopeful that the numbers will be great and that they will get the vaccinations. The first results come out in the beginning of October. Four times during the challenge, the Department of Health will update Health Services about their progress.

Petruce Jean-Charles, senior communication journalism major, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.

TUESDAY | OCTOBER

2 | 2018

PAGE 5

Convocation (continued from page 1) by firstly thanking everyone who contributed in the planning of the convocation. He explained the purpose of the event and the sense of community that the CLA team is striving to create.

time she has spent in the CLA, she was able to create great bonds with her professors and the staff of the CLA. The staff and professors have helped her tremendously in finding her path, and she urged students to form bonds, like she did, to enhance their community and overall college experience.

President Dawood Farahi, Ph.D. gave his remarks concerning the event.

The convocation ended after Dean Mercantini gave his closing remarks, once again thanking everyone who aided in planning the event and inspiring students to expand their horizons. The professors then exited Wilkins Theatre and everyone broke off by major for some complimentary ice cream.

It was here where students had the opportunity to converse with their professors and peers and get to know them on a deeper level.

He went into further detail on why this is a vital event, saying, “Why do we have a convocation?

Because it’s the start of your journey at Kean, and you finish that journey four years from now at the Prudential Center. You’ll walk on the stage with all your family members there, and you will graduate.”

This was a common theme throughout the event, with all of the speakers focusing on the importance of getting a college degree.

Dean Mercantini returned to the podium to give his speech following the president. He also focused on the importance of finishing school and earning a degree, especially in today’s time.

He touched on the misconception that college graduates are not able to find jobs, stating, “Unemployment is lower, income is higher, opportunity is greater for those with a college degree.”

He also explained the benefits of having a degree in liberal arts, saying that one will have an excelled ability to communicate with others, work collaboratively in diverse teams and think critically.

It is important for one to realize that higher education is not a luxury, rather it is a necessity.

Mercantini stressed this as he continued his speech, saying, “Don’t complain about having to learn something unfamiliar. Don’t view attending class as a chore; it’s an opportunity. History is made by those who show up. Sure I get as excited about a snow day as everyone else — you’ll see that in January — but it’s vital just not to go to class, but to engage with your classmates and engage with your professors.” Additionally, he emphasized the importance of students and professors bonding.

Courtesy of https://instagram.com/keancmj/

Students and faculty socialize enjoying ice cream and other refreshments.

Following the dean was the program's guest speaker, Terrance Hayes. He attended Coker College where he studied painting and English, where he was an Academic All-American on the men’s basketball team. He continued his education at the University of Pittsburgh where he earned his MFA. Hayes has taught in a variety of places such as Japan, Columbus, Ohio and New Orleans, Louisiana.

Additionally, he has taught at Carnegie Mellon University, the University of Pittsburgh and is now a professor at New York University. He has written many works, such as Muscular Music, Hip Logic, Wind In A Box, How to be Drawn, Lighthead, To Float in the Space Between: Drawings and Essays in Conversations with Etheridge Knight and American Sonnets For My Past and Future Assassin which he highlighted in his speech.

The focal point of Professor Hayes’ speech was

American LatinX

by Linda Vallejo Abigail Anne Rafael Editor

inda Vallejo's American LatinX exhibition is being held at Kean University's Karl and Helen Burger Gallery until Friday, Dec. 14.

American LatinX holds 48 of Vallejo's works from her Make 'em All Mexican and The Brown Dot Project collections. These pieces depict iconic symbols of American pop culture such as Marilyn Monroe, Mickey Mouse and Elvis Presley with tan skin. Vallejo's intention in creating these works was to inspire conversations about race, American history and politics.

Her work has received popular acclaim because of her interesting renditions of pop icons and has been exhibited all across the United States.

Vallejo's work also earned a permanent place in many museums such as the East Los Angeles College Vincent Price Museum, The National Museum of Mexican Art, Carnegie Art Museum, University of California, Los Angeles' (UCLA) Chicano Study Research Center, California Multicultural and Ethnic Archives and more.

A reception will also be held in honor of the exhibition Thursday, Oct. 11 at 3:30 p.m.

Afterward, The Politics of Color and Class event will take place at the gallery at 5 p.m.

This event allows visitors to enjoy a discussion about the art and its significance as they walk through the exhibition.

For Hayes, he discovered that for him it is poetry.

He showed the audience this by reading several of his poems from his work American Sonnets For My Past and Future Assassin.

Following the guest speaker was Kean University student, Jianna Pisa. Pisa is a junior psychology major on track to graduating in May 2020. She had the opportunity to participate in “Dean for a Day” last semester, a program in which a chosen student shadows the dean. Due to this experience and the

The first annual CLA Convocation was successful in inspiring students not only to complete their degree, but to follow their passions. The CLA staff portrayed their care for the students by hosting this event for them.

Shannon Sheehan, sophomore communication journalism major, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.

Highlighting the usefulness of Kean Online Petruce Jean-Charles

M

Editor

ost students who graduate from high school are only aware of the conventional method of learning in college, which is through a class setting. Skills that are important for success in the future can also be developed through online courses as well.

With that being said, Kean University has created an accessible and easier way for students to learn from the comfort of their home.

Kean Online is an alternative system that offers students the ability to learn while tackling a busy schedule. This was created to provide world-class programs while providing flexibility for students to complete their degrees in a manner that best suits them.

Compared to other higher institutions, Kean strives to build an institution that favors affordability. In regard to tuition and fees, undergraduate tuition is $471 per credit, while graduate tuition is $823 a credit.

"Linda Vallejo's artwork challenges our thinking with a surprising cultural twist," commented Neil Tetkowski, the director of Kean Galleries.

"Cultural identity is at the core of her art."

Vallejo was influenced by her travels throughout the United States, Europe and Mexico where she was inspired by the Chicano and Latino indigenous communities and their art work. Her experiences led her to create art surrounding her own Mexican ethnicity as it relates to American pop culture.

He posed the question: “What are you doing when you’re not doing other people’s work?”

Chloe Senatore, sophomore English writing and journalism double major said, “I can take away from it that poetry is a lot more deep and important than I had known before. I also learned that a lot more majors are included in the liberal arts program, which is really interesting. It enlightened me to the fact that liberal arts allows for a lot more imaginative experiences within college than I realized before either.”

Online and Engaged

The Karl & Helen Burger Gallery is holding Vallejo's American LatinX Exhibition and Reception

L

passion and the significance of finding what one's passion is. He told the story of how he was lucky enough to be a first generation college student due to his basketball scholarship. What he discovered at school, however, is that art is his real passion.

When asked about what students should take away from this event, theater professor Rachel Evans said, “I think it is all about community and coming together both as peers with your fellow students and your given majors. It’s also about the community of people who share the same values that the College of Liberal Arts does, and hopefully we were all inspired

by Professor Hayes and his presentation.”

Furthermore, obtaining valuable skills does not have to correlate with a campus. Rather, students should be able to build a professional network and connections even while studying online.

Admission to the exhibition and reception are both free to the public. The Karl and Helen Burger Gallery is open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and is located on the first floor of the Center for Academic Success (CAS) building.

For more information on the American LatinX exhibition or other exhibitions from any of the Kean Galleries, visit Kean Galleries' Kean webpage. Representatives of Kean Galleries may also be contacted through email at galleries@ kean.edu or through phone at (908) 737- 0392.

To help better acclimate to Kean Online, experienced faculty and other supportive tools can forge a path of success for students.

For students considering online learning at Kean, exploring the programs can prove to be beneficial to narrowing down what they would like to study.

Switching over to an online student can be a challenge when going over the curriculum, but it is designed to motivate and expand a student's learning experience.

To learn more about the artist, her work or any of her exhibitions, visit her website at lindavallejo.com.

Abigail Anne Rafael, a freshman communication public relations major, is a member of The Cougar's Byte staff.

A Leadership and Service Publication for the Kean University Student Community

The following programs for undergraduate students are offered at Kean online: ■■ Criminal Justice ■■ Management ■■ Nursing ■■ Psychology The following programs for graduate students are offered at Kean Online: ■■ Computer Information Systems (M.S.) ■■ Educational Administration (M.A.) ■■ Hindu and Urdu Language Pedagogy (M.A.) ■■ Speech-Language Pathology (M.A.) Students should also consider contacting admission to better prepare themselves for what to expect. Admissions coaches are always available to field any questions from students that might arise within the application process.

Lastly, students can venture off into the online world where they will have access to lectures, video presentations and instructional materials. Moreover, they will have the ability to chat with faculty and fellow students. Kean Online may seem impersonal for students who are accustomed to classroom settings; however, the online interaction remains an instrumental piece to successful learning.

For more information, students can visit Kean Online where answers can be found regarding admissions, financial aid and other information. Students can also email keanonline@kean.edu or call (908) 737-4275 for assistance.

Petruce Jean-Charles, junior communication journalism major, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.

PAGE 6

TUESDAY | OCTOBER

2 | 2018

Calendar of Events Last day to file application for Spring 2019 graduate field study 10/2/2018 • 8:00 AM • Kean University

Campus Safety Workshop - T2K 10/3/2018 • 3:15 PM • J 100

Hosted by: KEAN UNIVERSITY

Hosted by: School of General Studies Transition to Kean

New Eyes for the Needy

Bible Study

10/2/2018 • 10:15 AM • New Eyes for the Needy - Transportation will be provided to approved volunteers. Van will be departing from the Wilkins Theatre Bus Stop Hosted by: Center for Leadership and Service

Safer Sex Workshop

10/2/2018 • 11:00 AM • CAS 106 - Center for Academic Success Hosted by: School of General Studies Transition to Kean

Campus Safety Workshop - T2K 10/2/2018 • 11:00 AM • J 100

Hosted by: School of General Studies Transition to Kean

Global studies coffee hour: with Bright kids Uganda founder 10/2/2018 • 11:00 AM • CAS 406

Hosted by: African Students Association | Center for Interdisciplinary Studies | Global Studies Program | Office of Africana Studies | Pi Alpha Alpha Public Administration Honor Society

Fall Vaccine Day

10/2/2018 • 11:00 AM • Greek Lounge

Hosted by: Student Health Services

Voter Registration Tabling Volunteer

10/2/2018 • 1:30 PM • Miron Student Center Atrium Hosted by: Center for Leadership and Service

Voter Registration Drive

10/2/2018 • 2:00 PM • Miron Student Center Atrium Hosted by: Center for Leadership and Service

Democracy Dialogue: What can/should Americans do to tackle global poverty and promote democracy abroad?

10/2/2018 • 2:00 PM • HRI 207

Hosted by: Center for Interdisciplinary Studies

Hanging of the T-Shirts

10/2/2018 • 2:30 PM • Greek Lounge Hosted by: Lambda Theta Alpha

Silver Level Leadership Meeting

10/3/2018 • 3:30 PM • Miron Student Center Room 314 Hosted by: Office of Campus Ministry

Safer Sex Workshop

10/3/2018 • 6:00 PM • J100 Hutchinson

Hosted by: School of General Studies Transition to Kean

Order of Melchizedek Meetings

10/3/2018 • 6:00 PM • Miron Student Center 315B Hosted by: Order of Melchizedek

Order of Melchizedek | Meet and Greet

10/3/2018 • 6:30 PM • Miron Student Center 315B Hosted by: Order of Melchizedek

#GIRLBOSS

10/3/2018 • 6:30 PM • Miron Student Center, 315A Hosted by: National Council of Negro Women

Men’s Soccer Vs. York College (Pa.) 10/3/2018 • 7:30 PM • Alumni Stadium Hosted by: Kean Athletics

Walking Trophy

10/3/2018 • 7:30 PM • MSC 226

Hosted by: Lambda Theta Alpha

Last day to file application for January 2019 master’s degrees and graduate certification

Major Minor Exploration Fair - Advisement Week

Hosted by: KEAN UNIVERSITY

Pre-Medical Pre-Dental Association General Body Meeting

10/5/2018 • 8:00 AM • Kean University

Last day to file for November 3 graduate comprehensive examinations 10/5/2018 • 8:00 AM • Kean University Hosted by: KEAN UNIVERSITY

Voter Registration Tabling Volunteer

10/5/2018 • 12:30 PM • Miron Student Center Atrium Hosted by: Center for Leadership and Service

Voter Registration Drive

10/5/2018 • 1:00 PM • Miron Student Center Atrium Hosted by: Center for Leadership and Service

Student Organization Senate Meetings, Fall 2018 10/5/2018 • 3:30 PM • MSC 228

Hosted by: Student Organization of Kean University

Chinese Table

10/4/2018 • 11:00 AM • Townsend 111 Hosted by: Asian Studies

Let’s Taco Bout’ CRC

10/4/2018 • 3:15 PM • Hutchinson Hall Commuter Lounges

Hosted by: Commuter Resource Center

IAC Worship Service

Habitat for Humanity

10/6/2018 • 7:15 AM • Habitat for Humanity - Transportation will be provided to approved volunteers. Bus will be departing from the Wilkins Theatre Bus Stop.

10/6/2018 • 9:15 AM • ARC of Union County - Transportation will be provided to approved volunteers. Van will be departing from the Wilkins Theatre Bus Stop

10/8/2018 • 3:30 PM • STEM Building Room 415 Hosted by: Kean Triple Helix

RA Information Session

10/8/2018 • 3:30 PM • Upperclassmen Residence Hall Multipurpose Room

Hosted by: Office of Residential Student Services

Mindfulness For Stress Reduction

10/8/2018 • 3:30 PM • Kean University Counseling Center- Downs Hall 127

Hosted by: Counseling and Disability Services

Informational

Hosted by: Lambda Theta Alpha

10/8/2018 • 3:30 PM • CAS 248

Hosted by: African Students Association

Kean Dance Theatre Practice 10/8/2018 • 3:30 PM • D’Angola Room 168 Hosted by: Kean Dance Theatre

RA Information Session

10/8/2018 • 3:30 PM • Upperclass Residence Hall Multipurpose Room

10/6/2018 • 12:30 PM • Putnam Park - South Plainfield, NJ

Open Gym Soccer

10/8/2018 • 6:00 PM • Harwood Arena

Hosted by: Center for Leadership and Service | Cougar Volunteers

Hosted by: Recreation and Intramurals

Field Hockey Vs. Rowan University

World Mental Health Day 1: Body

Hosted by: Kean Athletics

10/8/2018 • 8:00 PM • Upperclassmen Residence Hall Multipurpose Room Hosted by: Greek Senate

10/6/2018 • 4:00 PM • Alumni Stadium

Muslim Student AssociationGeneral Body Meeting

Dear Self

Flag Football

Hosted by: Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Incorporated

Self-Care/Managing Stress Workshop

KURAC General Body Meeting

10/2/2018 • 3:30 PM • Center for Academic Success, Room 123

10/4/2018 • 3:30 PM • Center of Academic Success, ROOM 234

Cougars in Motion - Meeting

Time Management Workshop

Hosted by: Office of Student Success and Retention

10/2/2018 • 3:30 PM • CAS 311

Hosted by: Cougars In Motion

Physical Therapy Club Meeting

10/2/2018 • 3:30 PM • 109 Bruce Hall Hosted by: Physical Therapy Club

General Body Meeting

10/2/2018 • 3:30 PM • Hutchinson Hall Rm. 133 Hosted by: Kean University Hillel

Tutors Club General Body Meeting - Tutor’s Week Event

10/2/2018 • 3:30 PM • Center of Academic Success 205 Hosted by: Tutors Club

Outdoor Adventure and Recreation Club General Body Meetings 10/2/2018 • 3:30 PM • Hennings 109

Hosted by: Outdoor Adventure and Recreation Club

NCNW General Body Meeting 10/2/2018 • 3:30 PM • CAS 252

Hosted by: National Council of Negro Women

Hosted by: Kean University Rotaract Action Club

10/4/2018 • 3:30 PM • Center for Academic Success, Room 123 Hosted by: Office of Student Success and Retention

Tri-Beta First General Body Meeting

10/4/2018 • 3:30 PM • J*100 John H. Omara Auditorium Hosted by: Beta Beta Beta National Biological Honor Society

This Is Why We Vote

10/4/2018 • 3:30 PM • MSC Atrium

Hosted by: Center for Leadership and Service | National Council of Negro Women

Early Childhood Education Club Meeting

10/4/2018 • 3:30 PM • Hennings Hall Room 433 Hosted by: Early Childhood Education Club

General Body Meeting 10/4/2018 • 3:30 PM • STEM 324 Hosted by: STEM Educators

Kean Dance Theatre Practice 10/4/2018 • 3:30 PM • D’Angola Room 168 Hosted by: Kean Dance Theatre

Open Gym Volleyball

Open Gym Dodgeball

10/2/2018 • 6:00 PM • Harwood Arena

10/4/2018 • 6:00 PM • Harwood Arena

Hosted by: Recreation and Intramurals

Hosted by: Recreation and Intramurals

Latin Patio Night: Bomba Latina!

Safer Sex Workshop

Hosted by: Student Organization of Kean University

Hosted by: School of General Studies Transition to Kean

10/2/2018 • 7:00 PM • MSC Patio

Breast Cancer Bake-Off 10/3/2018 • 10:00 AM • MSC Atrium

Hosted by: Center for Leadership and Service

Get Yourself Tested

10/3/2018 • 12:00 PM • Downs Hall Room 126

Hosted by: Omega Sigma Psi | Student Health Services

Safer Sex Workshop

10/3/2018 • 2:00 PM • J100 Hutchinson

Hosted by: School of General Studies Transition to Kean

Safer Sex Workshop

10/3/2018 • 3:15 PM • CAS 106 - Center for Academic Success Hosted by: School of General Studies Transition to Kean

10/4/2018 • 6:00 PM • CAS 106 - Center for Academic Success

Campus Safety Workshop - T2K 10/4/2018 • 6:00 PM • J 100

Hosted by: School of General Studies Transition to Kean

Final deadline to file application for May 2019 and August 2019 bachelor’s degrees for early evaluation 10/5/2018 • 8:00 AM • Kean University Hosted by: KEAN UNIVERSITY

Final deadline for late filing of January 2019 bachelor’s graduation application 10/5/2018 • 8:00 AM • Kean University Hosted by: KEAN UNIVERSITY

10/10/2018 • 2:00 PM • Wilkins Theatre

Hosted by: School of General Studies Transition to Kean

Self Awareness Fair

10/10/2018 • 2:00 PM • Hutchinson Lounge

Hosted by: Commuter Resource Center

World Mental Health Day Tabling

10/10/2018 • 3:00 PM • Miron Student Center Atrium Hosted by: Greek Senate

NJCPA: Getting to know the Professionals 10/10/2018 • 3:30 PM • Miron Student Center, Room 315 Hosted by: Accounting Club

Bible Study

10/10/2018 • 3:30 PM • Miron Student Center Room 314 Hosted by: Office of Campus Ministry

Women’s Soccer Vs. Ramapo College 10/10/2018 • 7:30 PM • Alumni Stadium Hosted by: Kean Athletics

World Mental Health Day 10/10/2018 • 8:00 PM • Cougar’s Den Hosted by: Greek Senate

Hosted by: Kean University Anime Society

Men’s Soccer Vs. The College of New Jersey

Hosted by: The Poetry Club

Campus Safety Workshop - T2K

15th Annual Buddy Walk of South Plainfield, NJ

10/4/2018 • 3:15 PM • MSC 226

Hosted by: Muslim Student Association

Hosted by: Student Organization of Kean University

Hosted by: School of General Studies Transition to Kean

10/8/2018 • 3:30 PM • Miron Student Center Room 315

Hosted by: Leadership Institute

10/2/2018 • 3:15 PM • CAS 442

10/10/2018 • 12:00 PM • Miron Student Center Atrium

Anime Society General Body Meeting

Platinum Level Leadership Meeting

10/4/2018 • 3:30 PM • Miron Student Center Atrium

Senior Class Rings

Hosted by: Center for Leadership and Service

10/6/2018 • 1:00 PM • Alumni Stadium

Hosted by: Leadership Institute

Hosted by: Center for Leadership and Service

Campus Safety Workshop - T2K

Project S.E.T (Sigma Educational Time)

10/2/2018 • 3:15 PM • MSC 226

10/10/2018 • 10:00 AM • MSC Atrium

Hosted by: Office of Residential Student Services

10/4/2018 • 3:15 PM • Bruce Hall, Room 109 Hosted by: IMPACT Apostolic Club

General Body Meeting

African Student Association General Body Meeting

ARC of Union County

Hosted by: Center for Leadership and Service

Hosted by: Pre-Medical Pre-Dental Association

Hosted by: National Council of Negro Women

10/5/2018 • 6:30 PM • MSC 226

Hosted by: Student Organization of Kean University

10/4/2018 • 10:00 AM • MSC Atrium

10/8/2018 • 3:30 PM • Bruce 109

10/8/2018 • 3:30 PM • CAS 205

Hosted by: Center for Leadership and Service

Breast Cancer Bake-Off

Hosted by: School of General Studies Transition to Kean

Unmask The Mask

Kean After Dark

10/3/2018 • 9:00 PM • Cougar’s Den

10/8/2018 • 3:15 PM • Downs Hall

Breast Cancer Bake-Off

Hosted by: Kean Athletics

10/7/2018 • 9:00 AM • Jim Hynes Baseball Stadium

Hosted by: Recreation and Intramurals

Jets vs Broncos

10/7/2018 • 11:00 AM • Metlife Stadium

10/8/2018 • 9:00 PM • CAS 305

Senior Portraits

10/9/2018 • 9:00 AM • Miron Student Center 228

Hosted by: Student Organization of Kean University

Hosted by: Student Organization of Kean University

Breast Cancer Bake-Off

Atria Senior Living

Hosted by: Center for Leadership and Service

10/7/2018 • 12:15 PM • Atria Senior Living Transportation will be provided to approved volunteers. Bus will be departing from the Wilkins Theatre Bus Stop Hosted by: Center for Leadership and Service

NFL Sunday Ticket

10/7/2018 • 1:00 PM • Miron Student Center Cougar’s Den

Hosted by: Student Organization of Kean University

NFL Sunday Ticket

10/7/2018 • 1:00 PM • Miron Student Center Cougar’s Den Hosted by: Miron Student Center Operations and Event Management

Sunday Mass

10/7/2018 • 6:00 PM • Miron Student Center 226 Hosted by: Office of Campus Ministry

10/9/2018 • 10:00 AM • MSC Atrium

Senior Class Rings

10/9/2018 • 12:00 PM • Miron Student Center Atrium Hosted by: Student Organization of Kean University

Paint A Pumpkin with Gamma 10/9/2018 • 2:00 PM • Clock Tower Area Hosted by: Gamma Psi Epsilon

Campus Safety Workshop - T2K 10/9/2018 • 3:15 PM • Wilkins Theatre

Hosted by: School of General Studies Transition to Kean

Overcoming Anxiety Workshop

10/9/2018 • 3:30 PM • Center for Academic Success, Room 123 Hosted by: Office of Student Success and Retention

Columbus Day - state holiday - classes will be held

Cougars in Motion - Meeting

Hosted by: KEAN UNIVERSITY

Hosted by: Cougars In Motion

Senior Portraits

World Mental Health Day 2: Mind

10/8/2018 • 8:00 AM • Kean University

10/8/2018 • 9:00 AM • Miron Student Center 228

10/9/2018 • 3:30 PM • CAS 311

10/11/2018 • 9:30 AM • Wilkins Theatre

Chinese Table

10/11/2018 • 11:00 AM • Townsend 111 Hosted by: Asian Studies

Voter Registration Tabling Volunteer 10/11/2018 • 12:00 PM • Miron Student Center Atrium

Hosted by: Center for Leadership and Service

Voter Registration Drive

10/11/2018 • 12:30 PM • Miron Student Center Atrium

Hosted by: Center for Leadership and Service

Kiss Away Cancer

10/11/2018 • 3:00 PM • Miron Student Center atrium Hosted by: Sigma Beta Chi

Student Group Advisor Training 10/11/2018 • 3:15 PM • Miron Student Center, Involvement Center, Room 303

Hosted by: Center for Leadership and Service

KDP General Meeting: Union Campus 10/11/2018 • 3:15 PM • Hutchinson J*100

Hosted by: Kappa Delta Pi, International Honor Society in Education

Gold Level Leadership Meeting 10/11/2018 • 3:15 PM • MSC 226

Hosted by: Leadership Institute

WKUSA General Body Meeting 10/11/2018 • 3:15 PM • CAS 245

Hosted by: Wenzhou-Kean University Student Association

Earth Science Club General Body Meeting

10/11/2018 • 3:30 PM • Center of Academic Success, Room 250 Hosted by: Earth Science Club

Operation Smile General Body Meetings

10/11/2018 • 3:30 PM • CAS Room 440 Hosted by: Operation Smile

Kean Dance Theatre Practice 10/11/2018 • 3:30 PM • D’Angola Room 168 Hosted by: Kean Dance Theatre

10/9/2018 • 3:30 PM • Miron Student Center 226

ISA General Body Meeting

Safer Sex Workshop

Open House

Hosted by: International Student Association

Hosted by: School of General Studies Transition to Kean

Hosted by: Human Rights Institute

Hosted by: Student Organization of Kean University

10/8/2018 • 9:30 AM • HH 113 Hennings Hall

Voter Registration Tabling Volunteer

10/8/2018 • 9:30 AM • Miron Student Center Atrium Hosted by: Center for Leadership and Service

Voter Registration Drive

10/8/2018 • 10:00 AM • Miron Student Center Atrium Hosted by: Center for Leadership and Service

Kean Ocean Campus Life Information Table

10/8/2018 • 12:00 PM • Kean Ocean Gateway Atrium

Hosted by: Student Organization of Kean University

Hosted by: Greek Senate

10/9/2018 • 4:00 PM • Human Rights Institute Atrium (second floor of Library)

IAC Bible Study Sessions

KDP General Meeting: OCEAN Campus

Soup for the Soul

Hosted by: Kappa Delta Pi, International Honor Society in Education

Senior Class Senate Meeting

Women’s Volleyball Vs. Ramapo College

Hosted by: Student Organization Class of 2019

10/9/2018 • 5:30 PM • Room 427-Gateway Building

10/9/2018 • 7:00 PM • Harwood Arena Hosted by: Kean Athletics

World Mental Health Day 2: Mind 10/9/2018 • 8:00 PM • MSC 226

Hosted by: Active Minds at Kean University | Greek Senate

Pillowtalk

Senior Class Rings

10/9/2018 • 8:00 PM • Cougars Den

Hosted by: Student Organization of Kean University

Senior Portraits

10/8/2018 • 12:00 PM • Miron Student Center Atrium

Hosted by: Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Incorporated

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10/11/2018 • 3:30 PM • CAS 252

Hosted by: IMPACT Apostolic Club

10/11/2018 • 3:30 PM • MSC 228

Hosted by: Catholic Newman Club

10/11/2018 • 3:30 PM • MSC 314

Day of the Dead Exhibit

10/11/2018 • 3:30 PM • Karl and Helen Burger Gallery

Hosted by: Student Organization of Kean University

Studying/Note-Taking Workshop

10/11/2018 • 3:30 PM • Center for Academic Success, Room 123 Hosted by: Office of Student Success and Retention

10/10/2018 • 9:00 AM • Miron Student Center 228

Hosted by: Student Organization of Kean University

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10/11/2018 • 3:30 PM • CAS*106

Events subject to change. Visit Cougar Link for the most up-to-date event calendar.

TUESDAY | OCTOBER

2 | 2018

PAGE 7

An Active Student With Many Ambitions

Highlighting Ashanti Lyking, a prime example of an active and involved student at Kean Petruce Jean-Charles

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captain of the Top Knotch team on campus.

Editor

ean University is an institution that allows its students to develop and to achieve greatness through leadership, communication and professional skills. There are many departments and organizations on campus that are eager to help students and mentor them to be ready for their potential careers.

Ashanti Lyking, a junior studying biology health professions with a concentration in physical therapy, is highly involved at Kean. Through many mediums such as leadership, involvement and facilitating tasks, Ashanti has become a shining example of a student who chooses to be highly active and involved during their time at Kean University.

Sandra Espinal, the coordinator of the Leadership Institute, has seen the development of Lyking as a leadership student and understands that she is an influential asset to the program.

"Ashanti is very energetic and outgoing, which helps her to communicate with other students," said Espinal. "She first started as a volunteer and mentor where she was able to build a connection with the other students. Through her mentor platform she was awarded mentor of the year because she did everything she was supposed to and more."

With that being said, Lyking is a student ambassador with the Office of Undergraduate Admissions, a leadership student within the Center for Leadership and Service (CLS), the secretary for Student Government, a member of National Council of Negro Women and

"I decided to study at Kean because my high school guidance counselor referred to a person who went to Kean, who in turn sold me on choosing Kean University. Of course I got a tour from the Office of Admissions, but having someone who prepared me for this environment was something that made me look into if other schools could benefit me as well.

He was actually the person that told me about [the Leadership Institute], so I then decided to compare the schools to see what would best fit me," said Lyking.

As Lyking mentioned, being introduced to a program like the Leadership Institute was what continued her motivation to find more outlets to become involved.

"I honestly think that the Leadership Institute contributes to everything I have done so far," said Lyking. "Coming into that program I had already become comfortable with the university so that helped develop me, especially as a leader. So with that, I wanted to do everything because I saw that all doors were open for me. If I weren't a part of the leadership program, all of the things I stepped out to do wouldn't have been accomplished."

Alongside the Leadership Institute, Lyking is a student ambassador with the Office of Undergraduate Admissions. As a student ambassador, she hosts personalized tours while also working with admissions counselors who guide prospective students through the application process.

Lyking can attest that being an ambassador has aided in her ability to communicate with others and to create a pleasurable environment for both prospective

Petruce Jean-Charles | The Cougar's Byte

Ashanti Lyking is a student who is highly involved and encourages others to be as well. and current students.

"We want to make sure that students know what Kean has to offer and help students acclimate to the university. I also introduce students to different departments to give them a push toward activities they might be interested in," said Lyking.

Furthermore, Lyking also ventured into Student Government where she started off as a freshman class representative and worked her way up.

"I wanted to establish myself as a person at first, but then I continued on my sophomore year where I was sophomore class secretary, then junior class secretary, but I don't know where I want to go from there. All I know is that Student Government is a place where I feel at home just like the Leadership Institute."

Danielle Thomas | The Cougar's Byte

Ashanti Lyking with all of the T2K Bronze Freshman Leadership Retreat Mentors at the completion of the retreat weekend on Aug. 12, 2018.

new, but we are trying to establish ourselves. I am proud that we have been able to do that through the Top Knotch parade [that] Student Government hosted last year," Lyking mentioned.

Lastly, Lyking is a part of the National Council for Negro Women, which is another up-and-coming organization on campus.

"Last spring, we spent a lot of time getting the organization green-lighted at Kean and now I am really excited because this semester we are working on pushing out events and other additions."

Lyking's ultimate goal is to become a physical therapist in which she will serve an under-served community, and every skill she has learned will provide her with an upper hand in her future endeavors.

Aside from her student ambassador and Student Government positions, Lyking enjoys being a part of the Top Knotch dance team where she has danced since her freshman year of college. Lyking understood that being eager to be involved as a freshman helped her to develop more options for her college career.

Lyking wants to spread the news that pushing the limits and becoming involved at Kean will prove to be the ultimate reward in the end.

"The Top Knotch dance team is a majorette dance team and is the first on campus. When you think majorette, think marching bands. We are still fairly

Petruce Jean-Charles, senior communication journalism major, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.

Hats Against Cancer

Love Your Melon has a national mission of donating a hat to every child battling cancer Shannon Sheehan

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“I just wanted to give back to these children and do something they’ll remember down the road.”

Staff Writer

he Love Your Melon (LYM) Campus Crew started at Kean University three years ago with the help of Nicolette Perone, who is now an alumna. She was passionate about the LYM company and thought that the Kean community would be as well. This Kean chapter helps promote the LYM apparel brand and inform people about LYM's company mission of donating a hat to every child in America that has cancer and also donating to cancer research to fight pediatric cancer.

LYM prides itself on improving the lives of children battling cancer in America.

Since they started in 2012, LYM has donated 147,386 beanies to children battling cancer and have raised a total of $4,758,816.

The company began at the University of St. Thomas in St. Paul, Minnesota by two students who wanted to start a business but also wanted to positively impact people.

They began with the mission to give a hat to every child battling cancer in America.

This explains why their brand started with hats. Today they have expanded their range of goods to headbands, scarves, caps, shirts, and more. Additionally, 50 percent of the profit from LYM products is given to the Love Your Melon Fund.

Her favorite aspect of being apart of LYM is the hospital visits.

For example, she and another member went to Sanzari Children’s Hospital in Hackensack, NJ Tuesday, Sept. 18.

Members of LYM visited children at For this trip, they a hospital on National Superhero teamed up with Day to inspire them to be strong the New York and dream big.

Red Bulls. They visited several cancer patients in the pediatric intensive President Kean's Love Your Melon chapter is dedicated to positively care oncology unit and delivered them Victoria Volpe impacting the lives of children battling cancer. goodies such as beanies, bracelets and of the LYM stickers.

Campus Crew said, “College Volpe said, “It was amazing to be able to Many people facing cancer often need kids are often uninformed about these talk to the kids, take pictures with them bone marrow transplants. As a result, types of things and it helps to bring such and put a smile on all of their faces. It is LYM has partnered up with Be The Match, an organization to our campus for better truly rewarding to be a part of this crew!” a bone marrow donor registry, along with access for the students.” other organizations. They want to help On April 2018, members of LYM also Volpe decided to join the LYM Campus spread awareness to the fact that anyone visited Newark Beth Israel Medical Center Crew because she had family members has the ability to impact someone’s life by for National Superhero Day. The members that were also impacted by cancer, and the donating their bone marrow. were dressed head to toe in superhero organization really spoke to her.

A Leadership and Service Publication for the Kean University Student Community

apparel and came with presents for the children in the pediatric oncology unit.

They handed out hats to all of the patients and made their days a little brighter.

The importance of holding this event on National Superhero Day is to inspire the kids that they can do whatever they set their mind to, and to remind them that even though they are suffering right now, they are still incredibly strong.

Ashley Bongiorno, a member of the LYM Campus Crew, said, "Love Your Melon means to me creating the change for a child by giving them nothing but endless support, because kids can't fight cancer alone. I hope kids will understand that they're never alone and that there's so much support out there to keep on fighting because they're heroes to everyone they may not even know."

LYM is always looking for more members to join their team. Additionally, they do not have any events set in stone, but they are planning some in the near future such as the Love Your Melon Fashion Show and a watermelon smash event for this semester. Visit Cougar Link for more information on upcoming events and joining their team.

Shannon Sheehan, sophomore communication journalism major, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.

PAGE 8

TUESDAY | OCTOBER

2 | 2018

Kean Day

(continued from page 1) From 2 to 4 p.m. Cougar Walk had tables on either side reaching from the Center for Academic Success (CAS) all the way down to Harwood Arena, full of students eager to engage with each other. Some were excited to show off their student group while others were optimistic in finding a new club to join. DJ Nix in the Mix kept the crowd energized as he blasted today's top hits on the MSC patio.

Luckily for those who had attended, there was an array of food selections and free goodies. For food, one could choose from multiple options including 7-Eleven, Le Bon Pretzels, Rita's and more. Many of the tables were giving out free items such as lanyards, pens, tattoos, and even Kean apparel.

There was also representation present for the several offices that Kean has. For instance, Caroline Guerra, a student worker at the Office of the Registrar, was representing her office. “I’m excited for representing my office because I really do love my job,” Guerra said.

For many organizations, it was their first time at Kean Day. They got the opportunity to show Kean what their organization is and what they are all about. For example, the National Council of Negro Women were firsttimers at this year’s Kean Day. Tierra Hooker, the vice president of the organization, said, “This is our first actual Kean Day here on campus. Last semester, we started late so to be able to be here on Kean Day is exciting because we have a lot of signups. So we’re excited to bring what we have to Kean.”

Additionally, Art Over All made their debut at this year’s Kean Day. Their table was adorned with all of their artwork, including a live drawing of someone playing guitar by one of their members. For favors, they were giving out free glitter tattoos. Vice President Cheyonne Thompson explained how the organization was excited to show Kean what they have to offer. He also said, “Our table is showing what our club is all about — having fun, painting, getting people involved, making people smile, and just having a good time.”

Gaby Rodriguez of the Latin American Student Organization also participated in Kean Day for the first time. She explained her excitement for showing off her new organization. Kean Day was the perfect platform to do so. The Latin American Student Organization table included examples of clothing that represented their culture, and a board where people wrote their favorite aspects of their own culture.

Greek life also made an appearance at Kean Day. This event allows them to show the community what their organization stands for and what it means to them. All of the sororities and fraternities had their tables

set up, proudly displaying their letters. Some decided to go for a theme, such as Delta Phi Epsilon’s “Paradise” table, while others stuck to their natural roots.

The brothers of Nu Sigma Phi eagerly engaged with the passing students while they proudly displayed their letters. Will Horner of the History Committee said, "I’m excited to meet new people, spread my love for my brothers throughout the day, maybe meet some new people, make friends, and maybe find some stuff myself."

On the other side of Cougar Walk were the sisters of Sigma Beta Chi. Their vice president, Tiffany Mallinder,

said, “I’m excited to meet new people and have people talk to us. I’m also excited to see all the clubs I could possibly join.” Kean Day was the perfect opportunity to show the community who they are and what they stand for.

Kean University prides itself on its outstanding sense of community, which was clearly displayed at this year's Kean Day. Everyone should be able to find their niche on campus that allows them to express themselves.

For freshmen and transfer students, Kean Day allowed them to learn all about what Kean has to offer and to get them involved as much as possible. Moreover, it provided vital visibility to student organizations here at Kean. Everyone should be able to find somewhere to fit in here at Kean.

Brandon Gervais, sophomore English education double major, is a member of The Cougar's Byte staff.

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