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English adds degree to academic options Amber Nathan Editor-in-Chief
“I’m thrilled,” Dave Meng, the academic chair for English, said of the new degree. AACC will offer a degree “We’ve never had one before, in English starting next fall. so this is a new thing for us. “We’re over the moon,” … We’re hoping that this will professor Steve Canaday said bring us some new students.” about the Arts and Science Canaday said students transfer degree with a con- who earn the English decentration in English. “The gree at AACC will be able to department’s been working transfer as juniors to fouron … getting that approval for year public universities in a couple of years. So it’s real- the state. ly gratifying to learn this fall Meng said the departthat it’s finally come through.” ment’s focus is on making
sure credits from the English degree will transfer to those universities. “Transferability is a big part of it,” Meng said. “It’s so important that when they finish [the] program, they can transfer seamlessly to … any Maryland college [or] university and go in as juniors.” The degree also gives students interested in English the option of pursuing Continued on page 3
Author Chris Wilson shares story, advice Christian Richey Associate Editor
Author Chris Wilson, right, shares his journey from prisoner to businessman in an interview with former Campus Current Editor-in-Chief Alexandra Radovic. Photo by Christian Richey
A formerly incarcerated AACC alum said education was instrumental to his life and success in a speech on campus on Sept. 30. Chris Wilson, who shared the stage with former Campus Current Editor-in-
MD Promise funding still open for fall ’19 Christian Richey Associate Editor
Students who are eligible for the Maryland Promise Scholarship but missed the June 17 paperwork deadline could still receive the financial aid this semester. According to Shanna Kibler, AACC’s assistant FINAL CAMPUS CURRENT NOV 2019 MASTER.indd 1
director of financial aid, students who already qualified for the grant but did not submit proper documentation may submit those papers now. “There are still some students who submitted some of their documents but not all of them, and so [Maryland] hasn’t made them in-
Professor Steve Canaday played a big part in making AACC's new English degree a reality. Photo by Ryan Kim
eligible,” Kibler said. “They just need to do a couple extra things to finalize their eligibility. If they’re [submitting documentation] at this point in time the state is still moving forward with awarding them.” Kibler said some students Continued on page 3
Chief Alexandra Radovic as she interviewed him, said his book, "The Master Plan," tells "my life story, but [there’s] a lot of takeaways in the book for anyone, for business, for life, for the criminal justice system.” Campus Current hosted the event. The College of Liberal Arts and the College of
Business and Law co-sponsored the speech. Wilson, who served 16 years of a life sentence for killing a man when he was 17, said he wrote a “master plan” for his life while he was in prison. The list included goals for his time behind Continued on page 3
1,000 students won the Maryland Community College Promise Scholarship
AACC students got 140 of them The other 860 went to students at other community colleges
The Maryland Community College Promise Scholarship has gone to 140 AACC students so far. Graphic by Daniel Nickerson
10/24/2019 9:34:25 PM
2 | Campus Current | 2019 | November
Editorial
Meet the Staff!
Stay grateful, keep positive Editorial Board
Editor-in-Chief Amber Nathan Associate Editor Christian Richey Daily Editor David Stemmle Graphics Editor Mackenzie Airey Web Designer Tom Ostrye Sports Editor Brayden Nazarian Entertainment Editor David Stemmle Reporters Samantha Agnor Dylan Callahan Adrianna Gonzalez Bethany Probst Lauryn Simms Photographers Christina Browning Jacob Dear Ryan Kim Gerald Maravanyika Kacie Orgera Daniel Salomon Willow Windrum Faculty Adviser Sharon O’Malley
Photographers on Page 1, top Amber Nathan Daniel Salomon Gerald Maravanyika
Twitter @campus_current Facebook Facebook.com/ CampusCurrentPaper Instagram campuscurrentaacc
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410-777-2296 CampusCurrent @gmail.com
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FINAL CAMPUS CURRENT NOV 2019 MASTER.indd 2
Thanksgiving is coming up fast. A lot of us are already looking forward to a turkey dinner with family and wondering which desserts will be on the menu. But while food is a great part of the holiday, it’s not the biggest part. Being thankful is right in the day’s name—Thanksgiving—but sometimes we get so caught up in the hustle and bustle of planning the menu and visiting with family that we put our gratitude on the back burner. Practicing gratitude can motivate people to make positive changes in their lives. But with finals coming around the corner, it isn’t always easy to feel grateful. By the time Thanksgiving rolls around, students are more likely to feel burned out. An idea: Consciously practice gratitude this Thanksgiving. Here are some
ways to stay thankful as the holiday approaches: 1. Try journaling. Write about your day, every day if you can, even if it’s been a hard one. Then identify what you are most grateful for about that day. At first you may not think of anything, but there’s almost always something to be grateful for, even if it’s a very small thing, like a teacher’s smile or a classmate’s compliment. 2. Scribble the things you are grateful for on scraps of paper and drop them into a jar. Try to write something new every day and deposit it in the jar. When you have a rough day, empty the jar and read what you’ve written. This can be a lot of fun, because there’s room for creativity. Decorate your jar, buy some fancy stationery and get colorful pens to shake things up. 3. Count your blessings. Make a list of your blessings and add to it whenev-
er possible. As with the jar, use fun materials to make the exercise meaningful and fun. Consider framing your list and hanging it in a place where you can see it every day. 4. Most important, practice positivity. Cut back on negative self-talk. Negative self-talk can lead to negative self-fulfilling prophecies. For instance, if you say you’re going to do terribly on your exams, you most likely will. Practice positive self-talk, which will lead to positive self-fulfilling prophecies. You’re more likely to be
My best friends were Bugs Bunny and Wile E. Coyote. I knew actors like Lon Chaney Jr., who starred in the 1941 film “The Wolf Man,” and Bela Lugosi, who played Dracula in 1931, long before I ever heard of stars like Miley Cyrus and Selena Gomez. I loved Abbott and Costello, with their sarcasm and wit. I loved Larry, Curly and Moe and their crazy antics. I loved Tom and Jerry and their catastrophic catand-mouse games that so often ended in disaster. I even loved the kooky Munsters and their misadventures. Eventually my family got Netflix, and I moved on from those older shows. I’m not saying I never watched the popular Disney Channel favorites. But I watched the classics first, and that influenced my personality and tastes greatly. I can admit that sometimes being old-fashioned holds me back—I am less likely to accept new things than other people my age, who are always craving the
latest and greatest. I’m far from tech-savvy; I act more like a baby boomer with my smartphone than a member of Generation Z. Modern fashion horrifies me, as do many of the ideologies of my peers. Just the other day I caught myself using the word “youngsters” to describe people a year younger than me. I don’t know if it gets much worse than that. But in other ways, being old-fashioned helps me. I develop good relationships with teachers and administrators who are older than I am. I make good impressions on my friends’ parents. I get along well with my own parents, because we have similar tastes in music and cartoons. Being old-fashioned also helps me appreciate more than one generation of entertainment. I can still laugh at Abbott and Costello shorts while enjoying modern shows like “Gravity Falls.” And I can watch Tim Burton’s beautiful claymation movies while reminiscing about the choppy, clumsy movie mon-
Letter from the Editor
This Thanksgiving, count your blessings to improve your perspective. Unsplash photo by Priscilla Du Preez
Be accepting of older generations’ culture Amber Nathan Editor-in-Chief
A lot of people call me old-fashioned. It’s an ongoing joke among my friends that I’m 42, not 19. I guess you could call me “an old soul,” given my taste in music and literature. I prefer swing music to rap any day. I’d rather listen to Ella Fitzgerald than Ellie Goulding. And when it comes down to the hottest authors, well, let’s just say I often defer to literary icons like Harper Lee, who wrote “To Kill a Mockingbird,” and Arthur Conan Doyle, author of “The Hound of the Baskervilles.” That might sound weird to you. But being old-fashioned isn’t always a bad thing. I never had the latest technology as a kid. I grew up with a clunky Game Boy and an even clunkier VCR for entertainment. Instead of watching hair-raising thrillers and popular comedies, I watched vintage cartoons and slapstick movies.
thankful if you see the cup as half full rather than half empty. Have fun this Thanksgiving eating all the delicious foods we’ve been looking forward to all year. But don’t forget to count your blessings along with the number of plates you intend to fill. And don't stop after Thanksgiving, either. Long after the holiday has passed, continue to practice gratitude. Looking on the bright side is something you can do every day, not just the one day a year most people choose to give thanks.
Amber Nathan, Campus Current editor-in-chief, says being old-fashioned is both good and bad. Photo by Christian Richey sters from the ’50s, ’60s and ’70s who influenced modern animation. (Trust me, you really appreciate Jack Skellington more after you see the skeletons in “Jason and the Argonauts.” Look it up). For those of you who aren’t old-fashioned, I encourage you to appreciate music and media from other eras. It paved the way to the modern entertainment you know and love today. You certainly don’t have to be invested in it as much as I am, and you don’t have to act decades older than you are. But it doesn’t hurt to widen your horizons and put things in perspective. So don't be too quick to dismiss other generations. 10/24/2019 9:34:28 PM
Campus Current | 2019 | November | 3
News
Students can get AA in English as of 2020 Continued from page 1
English Professor Steve Canaday, who helped create an English degree at AACC, says he is excited for it to be available in fall 2020. Photo by Ryan Kim
a degree in their field. “In the past … students didn’t have an academic program here that they really fit into. So now they do,” Canaday said. Some of them chose to
Author tells life story to AACC community Continued from page 1
bars and for his life beyond prison. Wilson earned his associate degree in sociology from AACC while he was incarcerated through a program in which the college sends professors into prisons. After his release, Wilson said, he moved to Baltimore and started businesses. He also became an artist and an advocate for prison reform. Radovic invited Wilson to speak at the college after she interviewed him last spring for an article in Campus Current. “We invited [Wilson] to come and talk to our current students and some faculty and community members because he has a very unique story where he, instead of getting his de-
gree on campus like we do, got his degree while he was serving time in prison,” Radovic said. “I think he’s just a really inspiring person who could really teach our students the importance of education.” Journalism professor Sharon O’Malley, Campus Current's faculty adviser, explained that her Introduction to Mass Media class publicized the event, invited the media and reached out to community organizations to ask their members to attend. “Their project for the past month has been to get 100 people into the audience for this speech," O'Malley said. "And they did it. I think we had five media people [including Campus Current],” O’Malley said. “We had people from the community … we had students from
the Black Male Initiative … and we had classes that get extra credit from their professors. … The students did all of that.” Approximately 120 people attended. One of O’Malley’s pupils, first-year journalism student Brayden Nazarian, said he enjoyed the speech and felt inspired by Wilson. “He’s a true [local] role model,” Nazarian said. “He’s somebody that people should look up to not only if they’ve been through the same experiences as him, but just in general.” Third-year theater arts student Nicholas Hynson, another student of O'Malley's, said, “I thought he was a nice human being and I thought, you know, ‘This is a man who did want to change his life around and he shows it.’”
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students,” non-degree seeking student Brandon Miller said. “I think it’s super cool,” second-year transfer studies student Elizabeth Morehouse said, "because [English] is … a basis for a lot of other things, I think it’s really useful.”
Author Chris Wilson says everyone should have a "master plan" for life. Image courtesy of Chris Wilson
Promise scholarship money still available Continued from page 1
Students who missed the June 17 deadline for the Maryland Promise Scholarship can still receive aid. Photo by Gerald Maravanyika
focus on creative writing or communications in the absence of the English major, he said. Students said they approve of the new degree. “It’s overall good for the college itself, since it’s expanding upon options for
submitted the wrong documents—a tax return, for example, instead of a tax transcript. The Maryland Higher Education Commission has awarded approximately 1,000 scholarships to community college students, including 140 at AACC, according to Kibler. The scholarship awards up to $5,000 in aid to each student who wins it. Kibler said the state has not identified a cutoff date for accepting documentation from students who already applied but whose paper-
work is incomplete. Of the $15 million available for the scholarship, the state has awarded approximately $5 million. Students said the scholarship, which is new this school year, hs the potential to help a lot of people pay for their educations. “I think everybody has a right to [an] education [but] some people don’t really have a means of paying for it,” third-year engineering transfer studies student Nicholas Lombel said. “So, if you can help them out, I don’t see why you shouldn’t.” Second-year mechanical engineering student Landon
Phan said the scholarship may help less privileged students. “I honestly think it’s a very good idea,” Phan said. “There are a lot of privileged kids in this county, but I feel … there are some [people] around who … [don’t have] the opportunity to get a higher education. ... So, I feel it is very beneficial.” But Phan said the scholarship is not publicized enough for students. Kibler said officials from Maryland’s 16 community colleges are keeping in touch with the state in an effort to improve the reach of the scholarship. 10/24/2019 9:34:31 PM
4 | Campus Current | 2019 | November
News
62% in poll side with Trump impeachment Christian Richey Associate Editor
AACC students said in October they support the impeachment of President Donald Trump. In an informal Campus Current poll of 50 students, 62 percent said they hope a congressional investigation of the president will result in his impeachment. “I didn’t want him to be in office in the first place but … they definitely should have impeached him before this time,” second-year environmental science student Erin Hamner said. The U.S. House of Representatives could decide to
impeach the president after it investigates crimes he allegedly committed. If the House votes to impeach, the U.S. Senate must hold a trial and decide if the president is guilty of those crimes. If the Senate convicts him, Trump will be removed from office and Vice President Mike Pence will become president. The House inquiry began after Trump reportedly asked the Ukrainian president to investigate former Democratic Vice President Joe Biden, who is running for president. Trump said on Twitter the impeachment inquiry is illegitimate, calling it an
attempted coup by Democrats. “I feel like any president that’s representing the country shouldn’t be on Twitter, making comments about other countries,” David Wilson, a third-year general studies student, said. “I feel like he [doesn’t] represent the U.S. body as a whole well.” Samantha Biggs, a firstyear transfer studies student, said she favors impeachment because Trump “speaks negatively against many people across the country, no matter who they are.” Still, 38 percent of students in the poll said they do not want Congress to im-
AACC students said in October they plan to vote in the 2020 presidential election. While nine students said they plan to vote for Democratic Sen. Bernie Sanders, more than half who participated in the 50-person poll said they don’t know which candidate they will support. “I’m a little torn right now,” Kelly Quick, a sixthyear nursing student, said. “I’m not really leaning either way.” Twenty-two candidates
Associate prof runs for City Council seat Amber Nathan Editor-in-Chief
An associate professor is running for a seat on the Bowie City Council in November. Dr. Darian Senn-Carter, with AACC’s Homeland Security and Criminal Justice Institute, became involved with politics in January when a councilmember resigned, leaving an open seat. The City Council appointed Senn-Carter to fill the vacancy, and he took the oath of FINAL CAMPUS CURRENT NOV 2019 MASTER.indd 4
office in February. “Each and every one of us can make a difference,” Senn-Carter said. “And that often starts with a small act. And before that small act, it starts with a small desire to make a difference and to be involved and engaged.” Senn-Carter said he believes the Council chose him over 26 other candidates to fill the empty seat because of his experience as a professor at AACC. “The breadth of experiences that I have, both aca-
Democrats: 14 for, 4 against
Republicans: 2 for, 6 against
Independents: 15 for, 9 against
The majority of student Democrats and Independents favor impeachment, but most Republicans oppose it. Graphic by Daniel Nickerson peach the president. “I just don’t believe that constitutionally he’s really gone against [the law],” third-year communication student Samantha Agnor said. Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi initiated the inquiry. “Seems to me like maybe he shouldn’t have [asked
the Ukrainian president for the investigation] but … you kind of need an actual footing to actually impeach him on,” business administration student Jon Souders said. “Part of it is just they want to make him look bad for the upcoming election [and] decrease his chances.” The presidential election is Nov. 3, 2020.
are running for president, including three Republicans and 19 Democrats. Debates among Democratic presidential candidates began in June. The latest debate—the fourth of 12, was on Oct. 15. The Republicans have not scheduled any debates. President Donald Trump said he will not participate in debates this election cycle. “There’s a lot of anxiety around it, and stress,” McKenzie Maynard, a third-year psychology student, said about the elections. But another student said
she is looking forward to Election Day on Nov. 3, 2020. “I think it needs to come up faster, because I don’t like the current president and I want a new one,” second-year transfer studies student Fiona Ward said. Two students in the poll said they might vote for Trump. “I support Donald Trump because he’s doing a really great job in office right now,” Gavin Sullivan, a second-year transfer studies student, said. “In his four years we’ve hit record-low unemployment.”
Students say they will vote in 2020 election Amber Nathan Editor-in-Chief
In a poll of 50 students, 46 say they will vote in the 2020 presidential election. Photo by Samantha Agnor
AACC students for and against impeachment
demically and professionally … were … a good match for the role,” Senn-Carter said. Senn-Carter, one of five candidates running for the seat on Nov. 5, said his goal as a councilmember is to “strengthen and to deepen the connections with the City Council and our residents.” Senn-Carter added he makes it a priority to listen to the ideas and concerns of residents, taking the time for one-on-one conversa-
A voter, left, speaks with Darian Senn-Carter, a professor in AACC's Homeland Security and Criminal Justice Institute who is running for a seat on the Bowie City Council. Photo by Amber Nathan tions to build those connections. Anyone who has lived in
Bowie for a year or more can run for election to the City Council. 10/24/2019 9:34:34 PM
Campus Current | 2019 | November | 5
High number of AACC students attend USM Amber Nathan Editor-in-Chief
Anne Arundel County sends the fourth-highest number of students to University System of Maryland colleges compared with other counties, according to USM’s chancellor. More than 11,000 students from Anne Arundel County enrolled in the University System of Maryland this year—about 9,000 un-
dergraduates and 2,000 graduate students, Robert Caret said in a column he wrote for the Annapolis Capital Gazette. Caret said Montgomery, Prince George’s and Baltimore counties have a higher number of students enrolled at USM. More than a third of the Anne Arundel County residents who go to USM colleges transferred from AACC, according to Caret.
Last year, 748 out of 782 AACC students who transferred to in-state universities enrolled in one of University System of Maryland’s 12 schools, according to AACC’s website. More AACC students—245—enrolled in University of Maryland’s primarily online school, University of Maryland Global Campus, than any other USM campus. UMGC previously was University of Maryland
In 2018, 782 AACC students transferred to Maryland universities 34 went to other colleges
245 went to UMGC
748 went to University System of Maryland Schools
148 went to UMD
130 went to UMBC
748 AACC students transferred to a school in the University System of Maryland last year. Graphic by Daniel Nickerson University College. University of Maryland College Park and University of Maryland, Baltimore
County were the second most popular, with 148 and 130 AACC students, respectively.
dents study in groups, added an online portion so students can call into sessions. The SI program makes students who excel in STEM and psychology courses leaders who head study ses-
sions for peers and involves playing educational games or doing other activities. Now, with a 360-degree camera that broadcasts SI sessions live, students can learn on and off campus.
SI study groups add live online sessions Lauryn Simms Reporter
Students can call in to online Supplemental Instruction sessions in real time. Above, Peter Jauschnegg, a second-year pre-nursing student. Photo by Lauryn Simms
News
The School of Science, Technology and Education’s supplemental instruction program, which helps stu-
New York City
Bus Trip December 18th Hosted by the Entrepreneurs’ Club AACC Students, Faculty and Staff - $40 Guests - $45 Buy tickets in the Hatchery, Careers 326 Minors need to be accompanied by a parent or guardian
Depart at 6:00 a.m.
Return at 10:00 p.m. (Parking Lot D)
There is no planned agenda Shop, go to a museum, ice skate, see a show or visit other places in NY City
For more information, contact: esi@aacc.edu | 410-777-2066
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10/24/2019 9:34:34 PM
6 | Campus Current | 2019 | November
FIND YOUR FIT AT
HOOD COLLEGE
WE MAKE TRANSFERRING EASY FOR YOU: • Dedicated transfer admission counselors
• Transfer scholarships available
• Anne Arundel Community • More than 25 bachelor’s degrees College-specific scholarships to choose from available for full-time students
Transfer Tuesdays, 1st and 3rd Tuesday of each month, 3-6 p.m. Learn more at hood.edu/visit
FINAL CAMPUS CURRENT NOV 2019 MASTER.indd 6
10/24/2019 9:34:35 PM
Campus Current | 2019 | November | 7
Campus Life
Dogs learn to fly Amber Nathan Editor-in-Chief
AACC Public Safety officers in October helped two faculty members with disabilities train their service dogs to go through airport security. English professor Jessica Rabin and psychology instructor Denise Portis are both raising and training their own service dogs, and because they plan to travel in the future, they wanted their puppies, Caleb and Finn, to feel prepared. “We both fly occasionally,” Portis said, “but the last thing you want to do to a puppy is put them in a situation … that is so different from normal life. You want some experience ahead of time.” Caleb is a 10-month-old Airedale terrier, and Rabin has had him since he was eight weeks old. Finn is a 14-month-old golden retriever, and Portis has had him for one year. Police Maj. Cleveland Smith and Police First Class Janene Kerpelman helped train Caleb and Finn. “It’s a familiarization for the animal so that the animal
English professor Jessica Rabin helps her service dog, Caleb, through his airport security training. Photo by Amber Nathan will get used to seeing someone in uniform,” Smith said about the training. Rabin said the training could translate to other situations, such as going through security screenings at museums, courthouses and the U.S. Naval Academy. “Because they are puppies, we want to give them an opportunity to learn how to
Artists use a henna paste to create semi-permanent designs on their bodies. Photo by Willow Windrum
FINAL CAMPUS CURRENT NOV 2019 MASTER.indd 7
[go through security screenings] in a ... welcoming environment,” Rabin said. “When you fly, you tend to be a little … anxious, a little stressed,” Rabin added. “And you’re surrounded by other people who are stressed and anxious. And that filters down to the dogs.” Rabin trained Caleb to help her wake up in the
morning and alert her to sounds occurring around her because she has hearing loss. Portis also suffers hearing loss, so Finn has some of the same duties as Caleb. But he also helps with Portis’s balance disorder and neuropathy, a disease that affects her nerves and causes her to drop things. Caleb and Finn learned
how to sit still during airport security checks and started getting used to workers wearing unfamiliar uniforms. The group and the dogs met in the Central Services Building for the informal training, which they did with makeshift tools. For example, Kerpelman used a radio as a pretend scanner to wave over the puppies’ vests.
Amber Nathan Editor-in-Chief
Studies Institute, said she became interested in practicing henna as a hobby after an artist decorated her skin with a freestyle design when she ran an event planning company. She took a class two years ago to learn the skill for fun and started teaching her own class in spring 2019. What inspired her to teach henna, however, was an incident with her son nine years ago, when he developed a severe rash from chemical henna after he got a temporary tattoo during an outing at the beach. Henna paste is made from sugar, henna powder and essential oils or floral water. But sometimes artists add ingredients like hair dye and shoe polish to their paste, which can cause
chemical burns like Thompson’s son experienced. “Once I understood a little bit more about henna a couple years later, I was like, ‘No, I don’t want anyone else to actually have to go through that.’ And the more I learned about chemical henna usage, I said, ‘You know what? This is super dangerous.’” In her two-session class, Thompson reviewed safety tips with her six students. She encouraged them to ask artists which ingredients are in their henna paste before allowing them to apply the stain. The stain can last on the skin for up to three weeks. “I thought it was great,” non-credit student Elizabeth Adams said about the first class.
Henna class teaches students age-old art Students in a non-credit henna class are learning how to make paste and create designs. Henna is a flowering plant. People from Africa and India use a henna-based powder to make a paste that temporarily stains the skin with intricate designs called Mehndi. They decorate themselves with these tattoo-like designs to celebrate milestones like weddings and pregnancies. “I just like the beauty of it,” Kimberly Milewski, a non-credit student, said. “I think it’s really pretty.” Instructor Tarsheka Thompson, program assistant for the Entrepreneurial
10/24/2019 9:34:37 PM
8 | Campus Current | 2019 | November
Campus Life
Art students pick stability Samantha Agnor Reporter
Fun and Games
Some AACC students who are passionate about the fine arts said they are majoring in subjects that will offer more financially stable careers. The students said they have chosen to study subjects like psychology and architecture so they can qualify for well-paying jobs but still use art in their daily lives. “Architecture is a degree that utilizes artistic design skill, but has a practical function in society, making it safer for landing a good job,” said architecture student Makoa Connor, who said he wants to be an animator. “I would like to run a company that does animation. I am still networking as an artist with external groups and brands as I am pursuing my architecture degree.”
Joel Pasquarelli agreed, saying he plans to earn a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree, but will also pursue a Master of Architecture degree so he can “make a living.” “Four years of college is a long time [so I’ll] see what happens, see what comes up,” Pasquarelli said. “Maybe I’ll do portrait art for the rest of my life and live happily. … I’m going to do architecture as at least a backup.” Architecture and Interior Design Chair Michael Ryan said although “everybody wants to make a lot of money, no one makes too much money.” For some artistic students, financial stability has nothing to do with their majors. Psychology student Madison Likens said she will pursue a career in art therapy because she is passionate about art and psychology, and about helping others.
“I really want to work with [people with] disorders, so learning about disorders and learning how to convey them through art in a way that anyone can understand has been really beneficial,” Likens said. Drawing and Painting
Did you know?
Chair Matt Klos estimated that 70 percent of his students focus on making the most money possible. He said careers in the fine arts do not typically pay well, but plenty of jobs are available in the field. A career in art “is a sac-
rifice, you know, so if you’re willing to put together two or three part-time jobs … you know what I’m saying?” Klos said. Still, he said he advises students who feel the need to earn high salaries to choose high-paying professions like law.
Sudoku
Reimbursement is available for vending machine malfunctions If a campus vending machine malfunctions and eats your money, you can get reimbursed. For reimbursement, visit a cashier at the bookstore or at Chick-fil-A in CALT. Call Director of Auxiliary services Steve Pegg if a malfunction occurs at ext. 2651 or 410-777-2651.
Reporting by Mackenzie Airey Photo by Mackenzie Airey
FINAL CAMPUS CURRENT NOV 2019 MASTER.indd 8
Psychology student Madison Likens is among many artists pursuing degrees in subjects other than art that they believe will land them more stable jobs. Photo by Samantha Agnor
?
Looking for answers? Check TheCampusCurrent.com on Nov. 30
? 10/24/2019 9:34:38 PM
Campus Current | 2019 | November | 9
Campus Life
Students tackle time management issues Christina Browning Photographer
My greatest struggle is time management. Procrastination is where I live most of the time, whether intentional or not. It just seems that no matter what, I’m always doing things at the last minute. Because I’m raising my kids, going to school and working part time, I spend many nights completing assignments instead of sleeping. Luckily, I do my best work at night. Still, I try to stay organized and fight my tendency to push things off. Business professor Stephanie Goldenberg, a parent, student and full-time employee, had this advice for students who procrastinate: “In order to be better at managing your time, you have to decide it’s important.” Goldenberg suggested that students log everything
they have to do on a calendar: class and work schedules with commute times; assignments; activities and even fun. Entrepreneurial Studies Institute Chair Carlene Cassidy recommended the book “Eat That Frog!” by Brian Tracy for students hoping to learn time management skills. “Eat That Frog!” offers 21 strategies to end procrastination while being productive in less time. Cassidy’s favorites: • The “80/20 rule.” Tracy said 20 percent of our effort leads to 80 percent of our progress. For example, Cassidy explained, showing up for class, engaging in the lesson, asking questions, turning in assignments and taking good notes comprise the 20 percent that leads to the 80 percent. • The “slice and dice rule.” Breaking a project or task down into smaller, man-
ageable chunks gives you a better chance of getting it done. For example, if you have to write a research paper, plan to do one thing a day for a week until it’s finished. That turns a big project into five small ones. • “Single-handle every task.” This rule also gives you one thing to do at a time. Tracy suggested selecting the most important task on your to-do list and focusing on it until it’s finished. Then move on to the next project—instead of trying to juggle both of them at once. Sixth-year photography student Kathryn Ploetz, who works and is a mother, said she has a busy life. So she organizes her tasks by importance, and then works on the most-important one every day. When she finishes a project, she rewards herself. Second-year web design student Adam Mineo said he tends to procrastinate, so he
Students can improve their time management by filling out calendars and making to-do lists. Photo by Christina Browning assigns each of his tasks a priority. “The worst part is getting started,” he said, “but once you sit down and get it rolling, the task becomes easier.” For those of us who really struggle with time management, here are some more tips to help you: 1. Make a plan for every day. Write to-do lists and then schedule each task to a specific time on your calendar. The more time you spend planning, the quicker your work will go. 2. Assign a priority to every item on your to-do list. Is the project urgent, important or not really important at all?
3. Pay attention to your own rhythms. Listen to your body and your mood. If you work better at night, roll with it. Do not fight against your biological clock. 4. Before you decide to blow off a deadline, think about the consequences. Will it lower your grade if you hand in a late assignment? Will your decision to miss a deadline create a hardship for someone else? 5. Reward yourself when you complete a task. Keep yourself motivated any way you can. Christina Browning is a non-traditional student studying web design.
Fun and Games
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10 | Campus Current | 2019 | November
Features
Students see tattoos as art Bethany Probst Reporter
Most people who look at the pine tree tattooed onto the left side of Cali Corona’s rib cage see a simple, black tree. Corona, a second-year finance student, says she sees a symbol of strength and beauty. The year-old tattoo reminds her to “stay strong and grow from what has happened in the past,” says Corona, who suffers from panic attacks and depression and says that is “the main reason I got it.” She says she wanted the permanent image close to her heart. Once associated with drug and alcohol use, gangs and violence, tattoos have become mainstream. A Pew Research Center study reveals that about 38 percent of 18- to 29-year-olds have at least one tattoo. And a report published in the journal “Human Relations” says tattooed job applicants are no less likely to get hired than those without inked skin. Still, tattooed students told Campus Current they sometimes hide their body art, especially when they’re at work. Second-year transfer studies student Abby Roy says although she wants to embrace her tattoo, she also stays mindful of future jobs. “I know that some jobs don’t allow tattoos,” Roy says. “And to me, I think it’s professional not to show tattoos. So I want to try and keep tattoos where they can’t be easily seen.” She has a tattoo of a lightbulb that spells “hope” on her inner left arm.
“When I’m feeling lost in life or confused, I like to look at it to remind myself that everything will work out,” Roy said. “You just have to hold onto hope.” Annapolis tattoo artist Joe Nasatka says he cautions his clients to take care with the placement of what some refer to as “job blockers.” “[I] try to steer people away from tattoos on areas like the face and hands that aren’t as easily concealed,” says Nasatka, who works at Orange Tattoo Co. “[I wait] until someone has spent time collecting [tattoos] and covering other areas.” Corona says she keeps her tattoo hidden from her parents, but she doesn’t worry about showing it to employers and the rest of the public. “Your tattoos should not affect your employment,” Corona says. “Thankfully, I haven’t had any issues with it [and] my co-workers haven’t had any issues with it. So it shouldn’t be a problem in the future because [I think] people will become more accepting of tattoos and having them shown.” Armando Martinez, a second-year architecture student, agrees. He said being in the design field makes him comfortable with expressing his creativity through his tattoos. “Other than my name, which is pretty memorable in people’s heads, I feel like my tattoos often [make me memorable],” Martinez says. He got his first tattoo— his birthdate in Roman numerals on his left wrist—the day he turned 18. As soon as he got it, he wanted more, Martinez says.
First-year graphic design student Anthony Snowden has a number of tattoos on both of his arms. Photo by Daniel Salomon Now he has a four-leaf clover tattoo on the top of his right ear and a diagram of a pig on his right forearm. “The clover means, to me, that just because you can doesn’t always mean you should,” Martinez says. “Not that I regret my tattoo, but it’s just a general life lesson. As far as my pig tattoo, I was in culinary school at the time and I thought it would be so cool.” Martinez says the support of his family made him feel comfortable with embracing his tattoos. “During the mid-90s, my mother got a tattoo of my
Tattoos are a means of expression for students like Aberina Scrivner, a first-year sports medicine student. Photo by Daniel Salomon
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name on her arm,” Martinez says. “It was her child’s name and she was proud to present that. … Soon after I started getting tattoos, my dad decided, ‘Hey, I want one too.’ My grandmother even has one that she got in her 60s.” Martinez says his father has a tattoo of the Superman symbol on his leg because his coworkers and family always referred to him as a hero. His grandmother has a henna-style elephant on her upper right arm because of her love for the animal. Having tattoos is “something that [our family] cherishes,” he says. Martinez says nobody should feel afraid to show off tattoos, and people should see them as art rather than scars to the body. “My tattoos make me stand out more,” Martinez says. “I work at a firm and people say, ‘Oh, it’s the gentleman with the clover tattoo on his ear,’ and I honestly love that.” Martinez says his tattoos shouldn’t affect future employment opportunities because they don't affect his work ethic. “In the way I present myself in a job opportunity, I really hold myself in a professional manner,” Martinez
says. “I think that stands out more to employers than my tattoos.” Nasatka says most of the college-age students he inks come in mentally prepared to get their tattoos and feel set on their designs. “Most come in with a clear direction and meaning behind their first [tattoo],” Nasatka says. “Because of that, they tend not to regret their decision.” Corona says although she planned her design for five years, it was her parents’ dislike of tattoos that made her hesitate to get one. “My parents don’t even know I have it,” Corona says. “They don’t really understand what happened to me when I was younger, so I don’t think they would be understanding as to what this tattoo means to me.” She says she fell in love with one of her friends’ tattoos and knew she wanted the same artist to do hers. “[This artist] had availability one day and he reached out to me to see if I could come in,” Corona says. “I said, ‘Yes of course I’ll come; I have been wanting this forever.’ … It was definitely unexpected, but when I got it, it was such a refreshing moment for me.” 10/24/2019 9:34:44 PM
Campus Current | 2019 | November | 11
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12 | Campus Current | 2019 | November
Technology
Sand table is ‘fun, unique’
Bio chair to retire this year Christian Richey Associate Editor
Adrianna Gonzalez Reporter Christian Richey Associate Editor
The academic chair of the Biology Department will retire after this semester folRepairs have begun on lowing a 41-year career. the Arduino Sand Plotter, a Dr. Steve Ailstock, the machine in CALT created by director of the AACC Envi- Dr. Steve Ailstock has taught at AACC for 41 years. an engineering professor, his ronmental Center, started Photo by Jacob Dear students and an AACC techworking at AACC in 1978. In nician to show his students that time, he worked with And having the option to college is commendable. “what engineering can do.” the Departments of the Navy, go pursue those activities, “It’s a lot of dedicaA magnet drags a metDefense and Agriculture in weather permitting, is very, tion for a man to be at one al ball through a board of efforts centered around the very appealing to me.” school,” Walton said. “Props sand when the Sand Plotter preservation and restoration Dr. Lance Bowen, dean to him.” is working, making intricate of damaged ecosystems. of science, technology Morgana Hepburn, a designs. Motors, gears and “It’s been fun,” Ailstock and education, said many second-year American Sign belts controlled by a comsaid about his years at AACC. around campus would miss Language and interpreting puter smaller than a phone But Ailstock noted he is Ailstock. student, noted the signifi- move the large magnet, looking forward to pursuing “I think he’s going cance of Ailstock’s tenure. which is located under the more recreational activities to leave a big hole,” Bow“I haven’t even been alive board. in his retirement. “I’m an engineer but I en said. “I think he’s been a for 40 years, so he’s got more “The biggest reason [for mentor for a lot of folks. He dedication than I do right like the creative and artistic my retirement] is I am very has served probably in every now,” Hepburn said. side,” professor Tim Callioutdoor oriented,” Ailstock capacity on just about evThe Biology Department nan said. “I like using my said. “So, all of the things ery committee that has ever will select Ailstock’s succes- engineering skills, but I like that I like to do both profes- been on campus.” sor within the next month, to create different types of sionally and recreationally Second-year history stu- according to Bowen, though sculptures or [demonstratend to be tied to outdoors dent Bob Walton said Ail- he noted, “I don’t think you tion] pieces.” and outdoor environments. stock’s commitment to the could replace Steve Ailstock.” Technician Mark Merel-
lo and five students helped create the machine. What inspired the Sand Plotter, Callinan said, was seeing pufferfish create intricate designs on the sea floor to attract mates, as well as a YouTube video showcasing a similar machine. Second-year mechatronics technology student Austin Plummer said he worked on the sand table's belt and track systems, which move the magnet. The sand table is not working now. The problem remains undiagnosed, although Callinan said he hopes to see it fixed within the next month. “The sand table is pretty unique,” second-year mechatronics student Alex Tram said. Callinan noted another sand table is in the making that will depict topography. This table will use a projector to show the height of mountains of sand.
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10/24/2019 9:34:48 PM
Campus Current | 2019 | November |13
Department of New Student Transition Services November / December 2019 • Volume I • Issue 2
Hello Again, Wow! You’re almost at the end of the first semester. My hope is that you are taking full advantage of all of the programs and other events happening across campus. We encourage you to stay engaged and get to know your faculty, network with other students, and participate in extra-curricular activities. If you start to feel a little overwhelmed or stressed about your classes, major or personal matters, we can connect your with great resources, such as Personal and Career Counseling Services (tel: 410-777-7111) and/or the Health and Wellness Center (tel: 410-777-2480). The Health and Wellness Center offers a “StressLess Room” that includes a massage chair to help reduce your physical stress. We are here to help you finish your first semester with a win! Lastly, we want to remind you that early registration for the spring semester starts on Novemeber 13 th. This is your opportunity to eliminate the stress of registering in January during our peak period. If you have not already, check in with your advisor to discuss your spring class schedule now. Have a wonderful Winter Break! Sincerely,
Deneen Dangerfield
Dean, College Transitions
What is Tutoring Services? Tutoring Services offers full-time tutoring, in the form of faculty, adjuncts, peer tutors, study groups, computer labs, and online support. Their tutoring options range from general guidance to specific areas of study (i.e. math, English, reading and science). If you want to get a head start on finals or need support in a class, please make an appointment with Tutoring Services. For more information on AACC's Tutoring Services please call 410-777-2642 or email tutoring@aacc.edu.
Meet Heather, an AACC Orientation Leader who helped with all of the New Student Orientations held over the summer. Heather is a high school student in the Early College Entry Program, an experience which has taught her to not be afraid to ask questions or make mistakes. She encourages first year students to do the same. Meet Yvonne, a student worker in the New Student Transition Services Department who helps with a variety of tasks. Yvonne’s tip for incoming students at AACC is: “Come onto the campus with an expectation to receive the best education, skills, tools and most of all guidance from everyone you meet. AACC is not just a campus, it's a community that could be looked upon like a home away from home. The staff, faculty and even your peers are like family and want you to succeed, grow and discover the scholar and soon professional you're meant to be."
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14 | Campus Current | 2019 | November
TheCampusCurrent.com
Best of the Web
T-shirts hang for awareness Christian Richey Associate Editor
A women’s health class raised awareness Oct. 15 for sexual assault survivors while offering resources to those in need during the Clothesline Project Visual Display. Professor Caree Oslislo’s Health 113 class organized the display. “The Clothesline project ... seeks to bring awareness to ... interpersonal violence, domestic violence, child abuse, sexual assault,” Oslislo explained. "People make a T-shirt that either shares their story or shows their support for survivors of domestic violence.” The display featured a kiosk where attendees could
make their own shirts with personalized messages and hang them on clotheslines. “Some of these T-shirts are made in honor of people who have survived domestic violence,” third-year studio arts student Erica Romero said. “Some of them are made … by people who are survivors … of domestic violence. Some of them are just words of peace and encouragement to survivors of domestic violence.” Oslislo explained why her class organized the event. “This is a women’s health class, so it’s an issue or a concern that is really important for women and men to be aware of.” “The main goal is awareness,” Nicole Newell, a second-year engineering stu-
Poet Laureate Grace Cavalieri visits AACC. Photo by Gerald Maravanyika
T-shirts with messages of support for survivors of domestic violence hang on a clothesline on the Quad during an event. Photo by Gerald Maravanyika dent said. “People don’t really talk about sexual assault … just because it’s not a fun thing to talk about. But if it’s part of somebody’s reality I think it’s important
to make sure everybody’s thinking about it, even if it’s one day every year.” Oslislo said those who know survivors should reach out.
“If you meet or know somebody who is a survivor let them know that you believe them and share resources where they might get help,” Oslislo said.
Adrianna Gonzalez Reporter
Prize-winning poets from her radio program, called “The Poet and The Poem.” Cavalieri said she would like people to know “writers are the ones who save the things that are important and … it’s our job to talk about the hard things like love and grief.” Creative writing professor Garrett Brown invited her to speak on campus. Ashley Adair, a second-year general studies student, attended the event for Brown’s creative writing class.
“I really enjoyed it,” Adair said. Adair said she enjoyed listening to the questions from the students and faculty members who attended. Joshua Saderholm, a second-year creative writing student, said he found the event eye-opening. “She brought up a lot of things that I’ve always thought about before, but I’ve never thought to inspect more deeply,” Saderholm said. “She shined a lot of light on things that I’ve never looked up too carefully before.”
Poet laureate of Md. gives advice at AACC Maryland’s poet laureate gave advice to students in October after reading poems from her book. Grace Cavalieri read from her book, “Other Voices, Other Lives.” The book, released in 2017, features tales from women’s history, as well as her personal stories. It includes works from the 1990s and 2000s. It also includes interviews with Pulitzer
‘Sunset Blvd.’ review: complex ’50s drama David Stemmle Daily Editor
Opera at AACC actors gave it their all in the complicated musical “Sunset Boulevard.” Dr. Doug Byerly, the show's director, chose a challenging musical for actors from campus and the community to perform at Kauffman Theater in early October. Andrew Lloyd Webber’s “Sunset Boulevard” is about FINAL CAMPUS CURRENT NOV 2019 MASTER.indd 14
the relationship of a struggling Hollywood screenwriter with a once-famous actress. Byerly said the music can be hard for audiences to absorb. Its complicated rhythms and intertwining melodies are not easy for performers to master, he said. That was evident throughout the play during moments when the rhythms did not quite line up with the
music, making it confusing and unpleasant at times. Still, one of the highlights of the show was the beautiful costume design. The play is set in the 1950s, when dashing suits and poodle skirts dominated the fashion scene. Student Lisa Dickinson’s costume design perfectly captured the atmosphere of 1950s Hollywood. Set designer Peter Kaiser, an AACC employee, made
“Sunset Boulevard” plays on campus in October. Photo by Amber Nathan good use of the space he had. Each set gave the audience a general idea of the environments the characters were interacting with, without overdoing or underusing the props.
And the musical featured beautiful choreography by Crofton native Andrew Gordon. The actors showcased their many abilities as they brought life to the stage with dance. 10/24/2019 9:34:53 PM
Campus Current | 2019 | November | 15
TheCampusCurrent.com
Best of the Web
GSA panelists share stories
AACC has Coming Out Fair Christian Richey Associate Editor AACC faculty and students celebrated diversity and inclusion during the Coming Out Fair in October. The fair served to commemorate LGBT pride and diversity, according to Dr. Richard Otten, the fair organizer. Otten, an adjunct instructor, said the fair is meant “to promote diversity and inclusion of LGBT+ issues and education to bring people from different aspects of the college together.” Otten said the fair coincided with Coming Out Week, an event featuring activities
Amber Nathan Editor-in-Chief
Fourth-year non-degree student Brandon Miller, left, Professor Mea Lee and Dr. Richard Otten attend the Coming Out Fair. Photo by Christian Richey by numerous organizations on campus. The fair included stands from the AACC Rainbow Network, Truxal Library and Annapolis Pride, among others, according to Otten. Third-year film art student James Young said the fair added value to the school. “They got a lot of stuff there; they got a lot of peo-
ple; they’re all going out, doing their thing,” Young said. Second-year computer science student Nathan Boles said the fair highlighted inclusiveness on campus. “Everyone wants to be included,” Boles said. “It’s part of why we’re here. We all want to contribute. We all want to show what we can do.”
civil discourse,” gender and sexuality studies professor Heather Rellihan said. The event consisted of three sections across its 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. runtime, according to Rellihan. One section featured a class from communications professor LaTanya Eggleston, with students speaking on civility before taking part in a game of charades meant to simulate the breakdown of communication inherent to everyday interactions. One of Eggleston’s stu-
dents noted the importance of civility. “I feel like in this world everybody has to get along with each other in order to work,” first-year computer science student Patrick Mason said. “So like civility is definitely a big play in things.” Third-year biology student Abby Kulp noted her definition of civility. “It’s all about being civil, being a good human, being a good person,” Kulp said. “We’re all here together to make AACC aware that civility matters.” “I think it’s wonderful to
Civility Matters event teaches compassion Christian Richey Associate Editor
Speakers advised students to maintain positive communication during Civility Matters in October. The event, put together by the Social Justice Collaborative, the library and the Communications Department, looked to inform students about how to maintain civility and composure with those of differing and opposing viewpoints. “The idea for the event is to get students to think about
Members of AACC’s GayStraight Alliance shared their stories about coming out and answered audience questions during a panel discussion on Oct. 8 for the campus Coming Out Week. Students opened up about conflicts between hostile family members and the struggles and joys of coming out. “I was definitely near crying toward the end of the event,” Fanta Nickerson, a third-year secondary English education student and member of the GSA, said.
Erica Romero, president of the GSA, said her favorite part about serving on the panel was answering questions because she doesn’t have the opportunity often. “A lot of people are unfamiliar with the terms in the LGBTQ community,” Romero said. “So it was just … an educational experience for some people.” Romero added: “I think it’s a common misconception that we don’t like straight people and we don’t want them in the community. But … allies are really important and I wish that more straight people … came to our events.”
Students make protest signs and register to vote at a campus Civility Matters event. Photo by Gerald Maravanyika give students an opportunity to think through the importance of communication as part of their work here at the college, as part of their schoolwork, but also as part of the development of them-
selves as they attend college,” Rellihan said. “It’s a good opportunity for people to think through things like the importance of communicating one’s feelings and conversations around conflict.”
Photos by Gerald Maravanyika, Kacie Orgera
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16 | Campus Current | 2019 | November
Internship Fair Are you ready for practical experience and hands-on learning? Meet with employers in your field about internship opportunities for spring and summer 2020. Come dressed for success and have your résumé at the ready to talk with those recruiting for interns in these areas of study:
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Explore your options in 2020!
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TH ED
Nov. 5 11 a.m.-2 p.m. SUN Hawk’s Nest Arnold
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T OUR FOO
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Business Administration Business Management Event Planning Graphic Design Hospitality, Culinary Arts and Tourism Marketing Psychology Sociology Transportation, Logistics and Cargo Security
IN
EA
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For information call Internship Program Coordinator Gwendolyn Johnson at 410-777-2475 or email her at internships@aacc.edu.
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Business-casual attire and résumés are strongly recommended.
E ACQUIR
S
Public and Community Service. NOTICE OF NONDISCRIMINATION: AACC is an equal opportunity, affirmative action, Title IX, ADA Title 504 compliant institution. Call Disability Support Services, 410-777-2306 or Maryland Relay 711, 72 hours in advance to request most accommodations. Requests for sign language interpreters, alternative format books or assistive technology require 30 days’ notice. For information on AACC’s compliance and complaints concerning sexual assault, sexual misconduct, discrimination or harassment, contact the federal compliance officer and Title IX coordinator at 410-777-1239, complianceofficer@aacc.edu or Maryland Relay 711. 10/19
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Campus Current | 2019 | November | 17
Entertainment
Prof goes to E. Africa to study world music David Stemmle Daily Editor
Students could find themselves studying beats from Trinidad during their world music class this semester. Their professor, Dr. Chris Ballengee, said he will infuse his lessons on music as culture with the musical styles he has observed as he has traveled the world. Most recently, Ballengee attended a world music conference on the African island of Mauritius in September to study ethnomusicology, which is an analysis of music from other cultures. “Ethnomusicology is my thing,” said Ballengee, who is back on campus after a brief sabbatical. At the conference, Ballengee showcased his latest project, a video about the ties between Indian and Caribbean music. Ballengee said he dis-
covered these ties on a trip to Trinidad 12 years ago when he found a direct connection between Indian percussion styles and the music of the Caribbean. “There really wasn’t anything written about Indian people in the Caribbean,” Ballengee said. “When I first started studying [the] music of Indian people in the Caribbean, I honestly had no idea what I would find.” “No one has done the work that I’ve done,” Ballengee said. “And I think a thousand ethnomusicologists can say the same thing.” Ballengee said it surprised him how much Indian and Caribbean cultures intertwined, even though the regions are on opposite sides of the world. Ballengee said learning about the differences and similarities between their music “gives you something about the history of these people, where they come
Dancing alum subs at AACC David Stemmle Daily Editor
A former AACC Dance Company student returned to the college this semester to fill in for the company’s director while she is on sabbatical. Rachael Scaringe-Thomas, who received her associate degree in dance in 2015, is teaching dance and choreography while Director Lynda Fitzgerald is on sabbatical studying gender equality in dance. “To hand over your company for a semester, [that’s] a big responsibility," Scaringe-Thomas said. “And when … she called me … my jaw just dropped. I was like, ‘OK, Lynda, sure!’” Scaringe-Thomas said she taught modern and contemporary dance before
coming back to teach at the Arnold campus. Scaringe-Thomas has continued to teach dance at The Dance Academy in Severna Park while working for AACC. “It’s pretty awesome being back, I will say,” Scaringe-Thomas said. Scaringe-Thomas said Fitzgerald did a good job of creating a family atmosphere for the company. She said she wants to instill the same feeling this semester. Scaringe-Thomas said she focuses mainly on technique when teaching because she wants students to challenge themselves and get out of their comfort zones. “Different people bring a different essence to the Dance [program] or the Dance Company,” sec-
from and what they are doing now.” In Mauritius, Ballengee started a new project studying Muharram, the first month of the Islamic calendar, after he discovered a parallel to Trinidad’s music at a Muslim festival. During Muharram, some Muslims observe rituals in remembrance of the martyrdom of the prophet Muhammad’s grandson. In some of these rituals, Muslims play bowl-shaped tassa drums, which hang from their necks. Tassa drumming, Ballengee explained, is one of the Indian influences on music in Trinidad. Ballengee’s students said they have noticed the influence of Ballengee’s travels in class. “Dr. Ballengee’s experience definitely shows in the course itself because he’s got all that knowledge of all the places that he was traveling,” first-year transfer studies
student Nathan Perry said. First-year transfer studies student Tristyn Hanna said Ballengee’s world music class made him more open to various types of music. “As I’ve been learning
more and more, it’s evolved into a much more interesting class than I thought it was going to would be,” Hanna said. “[It helps me keep an] open mind on the different types of music and styles that are out there.”
Former student Rachael Scaringe-Thomas is leading the AACC Dance Company while Director Lynda Fitzgerald is away on sabbatical. Photo by David Stemmle ond-year dance and transfer studies student Chioma Akwara said. “They bring their training and their background … [Scaringe-Thomas] has built my technique more than I could imagine. I have seen so many improvements.”
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Dr. Chris Ballengee incorporates his first-hand experiences with African musical styles into his class lectures. Photo by Daniel Salomon
“She challenges us [as if] she sees our potential,” Sean Cook, a third-year cyber security and dance student, said. “She has a different approach than Lynda. She offers … more of the technical aspect, and Lynda offers the performance. So, I’m kind of
getting both [experiences]. … I’m feeding off of [Scaringe-Thomas’] energy and her expertise.” Scaringe-Thomas will leave her temporary position at AACC in January when Fitzgerald returns from sabbatical.
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18 | Campus Current | 2019 | November
Sports
Men’s B-ball starts season
Women’s 1st game is Nov. 1 Brayden Nazarian Sports Editor AACC Women’s Basketball seems well prepared for the upcoming season, according to the team’s head coach. Head coach Lionel Makell said he believes his team has learned a lot from the coaching staff. “The dedication from my coaches … all spills into the young ladies,” Makell said. “Positive vibes equal positive results.” “They’re all coachable; they’re all willing to learn,” Makell added. “They show up every day to get better.” Makell said playing against nationally ranked teams is important to the development of the players. Playing unranked teams for easy wins, according to Makell, would not help his team grow. “[We] play seven or eight nationally ranked
Brayden Nazarian Sports Editor
Second-year transfer studies student Sarah Healy, left, and first-year nursing student Ruth Marshall practice for the basketball season. Photo by Brayden Nazarian teams every year,” Makell explained. “I could [water] my schedule down and be 20-1, but that’s not going to help us.” Returning player and second-year transfer studies student Sarah Healy said she is confident about her team. “I think [we’re] going to continue to go up now that we have more people interested,” Healy said. “We’ve
got more [players] than last year.” Women’s Basketball finished last season with a 9-16 record, an improvement from 7-15 the season before. The team qualified for the NJCAA Division III National Tournament last season and finished eighth. The regular season began Nov. 1 at home against New York's Monroe College-Bronx.
AACC Men’s Basketball has more new team members than returning players this season, and according to the head coach, this comes with some challenges. But coach Joe Snowden said they can use the team’s new strengths to their advantage, even though last season’s tallest players have left. “We really don’t have a lot of height,” Snowden explained. “This team [has] speed. We can pressure a lot, and we can run up and down the floor with a fast pace.” “We [have to] change a lot,” returning guard and second-year criminal justice student Matt Kern agreed. “Last year we had a lot of size … and we just [have to] work with what we’ve got.” Guard and second-year transfer studies student Joseph Chase said he thinks the team can build off of its
last season. “We have a great team,” Chase said. “We just got to work hard in practice.” Snowden stressed the importance of the team’s returning players, as well as the impact its new players will have. “I’m excited to have Joe Chase and Matt Kern back,” Snowden said. “I’m excited to coach Davon Jones, Michael Cantrell and Jamar Young. I think those three will hopefully add that flavor all teams need.” Jones is a first-year business administration transfer student, and both Cantrell and Young are first-year health fitness and exercise students. Men’s Basketball is coming off of an 11-16 record from 2018, which was their best season since 20132014. The regular season begins Nov. 2 at home against Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology at 3 p.m.
Big Idea Viewing Party and Awards Ceremony TUESDAY, NOV. 12
3:30–5 P.M. | Humanities Building Room 112 Celebrate with us as we view the top 10 Big Idea videos, reveal the winners of the Big Idea Competition and announce the new Ratcliffe Scholars. Refreshments will be served
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Campus Current | 2019 | November | 19
Sports
Men’s Soccer adds international players Dylan Callahan Reporter
First-year legal studies student Victor Mmandama from the Democratic Republic of Congo joins Men’s Soccer this semester, along with Joba Malomo from Ghana and Ousman Leigh from Ontario. Photo by Christian Richey
AACC Men’s Soccer added defensemen from Ontario and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and a midfielder from Ghana to its roster this year. First-year computer engineering student Joba Malomo from Ghana moved to Ellicott City over the summer. He enrolled at AACC this semester. However, Malomo said he didn’t come to AACC just for soccer. Malomo said he wanted “to seek a higher education [and] try to get my associate’s and bachelor’s degree.” Malomo said he joined the team because “a friend of my auntie knew [the]
AACC Women’s V-ball finishes 2019 season Brayden Nazarian Sports Editor
AACC Women’s Volleyball finished the 2019 season with more wins than the previous two years combined. Women’s Volleyball won 11 matches during the regular season, which ended on Oct. 24. Last fall, the team recorded a 6-14 season with five more wins than the prior year.
In the past, Women’s Volleyball lacked skill and competitive edge, according to head coach Tatiana Cooper. “Their skillset is better,” Cooper said. “The girls [were] on a more advanced level this year.” Defensive specialist and second-year nursing student Tara Gabrielsen said the new group of players helped team chemistry. “I feel like we’re pretty confident,” Gabrielsen said.
Prof touches on civil rights Brayden Nazarian Sports Editor
An adjunct instructor said in October the 1966 Baltimore Orioles team reflected the shift of the civil rights movement. At the first in a series of speeches hosted by the History Club, Dr. Richard Hardesty—who teaches history and sports studies—said Orioles legend Frank Robinson and his team had an impact on civil rights in Baltimore. “There was widespread FINAL CAMPUS CURRENT NOV 2019 MASTER.indd 19
discrimination in Baltimore,” Hardesty explained. “The civil rights movement had growing militancy and led to growing white backlash. … These were longstanding issues.” Hardesty said discrimination was commonplace during the 1960s, as white business owners and realtors could legally refuse service based on race. However, thanks to Robinson’s success, white citizens of Baltimore began to treat African Americans better, Hardesty said.
“There’s definitely a lot more talent on the team, and I feel like team bonding [has been] a lot better. We all work really well together.” Other players also expressed confidence in the team. “Everyone knows their position, and they know what they’re supposed to do,” outside hitter and firstyear athletic training student Karen Bautista said. According to Gabrielsen and Bautista, some mo-
coach and he talked about “First of all, they’re great how AACC had a great soc- practice players,” Cosentino cer program. So I thought, said. “They play hard every why not?” day; they come to practice First-year legal stud- every day; they’re on time ies student Victor Mmanda- and they’re well-mannered, ma from the Congo has lived good students.” in Lansdowne near BaltiCosentino said the team more since has potential 2016, and “We are a family and even though we consider each it is a work in after enrolling at AACC, other as brothers.” progress. he decided “We have Defenseman Victor to try out for areas where Mmandama the soccer we definiteteam. ly need to improve on, and “The team is family,” it’s a process,” Cosentino Mmandama said. “We have added. our own special communiThe third international cation. We are a family and athlete who plays on Men’s we consider each other as Soccer is Ousman Leigh, a brothers.” first-year engineering stu Head soccer coach Nick dent from Ontario, who Cosentino said the three joined the team as a defenseplayers are reliable. man in October.
Women's Volleyball ends the regular season with a record of 11-10. Photo by Brayden Nazarian tivation for this season came from playing against Butler Community College, a rival from Pennsylvania, and winning. “It’s always one of our main goals to beat [Butler],” Gabrielsen said. Cooper said she thinks
this newfound success will carry into the next few years. “As far as recruiting goes, I’m getting a lot of interest,” Cooper said. “Based off the talent we have so far … people are seeking potential opportunities to play here.”
Dr. Richard Hardesty often ties civil rights into his sports studies lectures. Photo by Brayden Nazarian Hardesty said Robinson—an African-American Hall of Famer who played in Baltimore from 1966 to 1971—changed the Orioles’ level of competition. “Frank Robinson was a difference maker,” Hardesty said. “[He] spent six years
as an Oriole, and in four of those years they went to the World Series.” Robinson followed in the footsteps of Jackie Robinson—the first African-American player in Major League Baseball—and eventually became the first
African-American manager in MLB. At its next event on Nov. 20, the History Club will show “Sickies Making Films,” a 2018 documentary about censorship in movies, directed by Joe Tropea of the Maryland Historical Society. 10/24/2019 9:35:13 PM
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TS N E S E R P C C A A T RA
E T A E H T THE
Nov. 14, 15 and 16 • 8 p.m. | Nov. 17 • 2 p.m. PAY-WHAT-YOU-CAN PREVIEW: NOV. 7 • 8 P.M.
ROBERT E. KAUFFMAN THEATER IN THE PASCAL CENTER FOR PERFORMING ARTS
(Dont’ Wait! Seating will be limited)
DIRECTED BY WYATT UNGER OF MULLETPROOF IMPROV
$15 general admission | $12 AACC faculty, staff, seniors, groups, outside students, children under 10 $10 AACC students with valid student ID
BOX OFFICE 410-777-2457 or boxoffice@aacc.edu Contact Sean Urbantke for information | 410-777-7125 or sjurbantke@aacc.edu
Notice of Nondiscrimination: AACC is an equal opportunity, affirmative action, Title IX, ADA Title 504 compliant institution. Call Disability Support Services, 410-777-2306 or Maryland Relay 711, 72 hours in advance to request most accommodations. Requests for sign language interpreters, alternative format books or assistive technology require 30 days’ notice. For information on AACC’s compliance and complaints concerning sexual assault, sexual misconduct, discrimination or harassment, contact the federal compliance officer and Title IX coordinator at 410-777-1239, complianceofficer@aacc.edu or Maryland Relay 711. 10/19
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