Kean University - The Cougar's Byte - November 24, 2015

Almost Time To Breakout The Dancing Shoes »Page 4

Students Come Together To Showcase Talent And Heritage »Page 7

VOLUMe 11 | ISSUe 7

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TUeSDaY | NOVeMBeR 24 | 2015

a Day Of Honoring Those Who Serve The country wouldn’t be where it is without veterans

Day is a day to remember those who sacrificed their lives for this country’s freedom.

As Bustamante says, “you cannot fight a war without veterans, and while the idea of a world without war is appealing, let’s not forget that war has liberated slaves, stopped genocide and combated terrorism.”

Ojilvis Nunez | The Cougar’s Byte

Kean University students who have served their country

During the ceremony, attendees stood quietly through the salute of the flag, the singing of “Amazing Grace,” “Star Spangled Banner” and “God Bless America,” through a moment of silence and through a few prayers for those who had and who will serve. Also, the members of the Linden High School New Jersey Reserve Officer Training Corps (NJROTC) Program presented the Presentation of Colors.

Gaelle Gilles

O

Staff Writer

n Veterans Day, Wednesday, November 11, 2015, the Military and Veterans Club (MVC) hosted a Veterans Day Ceremony outside of the Miron Student Center (MSC). On that cloudy day, students, faculty, staff, and visitors came to the ceremony to remember those who had served for this great country.

“The heroism that has been demonstrated time and time again by our veterans from the American Revolution to the global war on terrorism is sometimes unnoticed by those who enjoy the security that their sacrifice has provided,” says Elio Bustamante, the Vice President and Director of Public Relations of MVC. Bustamante is currently a junior majoring in psychology and is a veteran of the United States Marine Corps.

Many people will not know what it means to go into combat and be uncertain about what will happen next. The veterans that served our country have gone through a lot, something that a majority of the United States (U.S.) population will not understand. Veterans

“The heroism that has been demonstrated time and time again by our veterans from the American Revolution to the global war on terrorism is sometimes unnoticed by those who enjoy the security that their sacrifice has provided”.

Elio Bustamante

Not only did Bustamante give a fabulous opening speech, but the President of MVC, Dionicio Estrella, a senior majoring in Psychology, also welcomed the attendees with a few words. Estrella spoke shortly, commenting that “we are gathered here today to pay tribute to all those veterans who selflessly gave their lives in battle, and those who continue to guard our nation with courage and heroism.”

WIN (Wenzhou Innovation Network)

Different thoughts from various areas in Wenzhou,China

Ojilvis Nunez | The Cougar’s Byte

Veterans Day Ceremony; to honor those who served

Amilcar Colon, the Undersheriff of Union County, was the keynote speaker of the ceremony. He is a veteran of the United States Marine Corps who served in Saudi Arabia. He begins his speech about Veterans Day by commenting on an Instagram post that spoke of people who join the United States Military.

“They have to know that they are writing a check at the age of 19 with something that will conclude with their life.” Serving for this country, or any country, is not to be taken lightly. Colon continues to say “that 22 veterans a day commit suicide because of [Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder] PTSD…but I want to thank these ladies and gentleman that are continuing their education and fighting the monster inside of them from whatever they saw overseas.”

Volunteers took part in Hunger & Homelessness Awareness Week

■ From Friday, November 13 to Friday, November 27, Kean University will be supporting the homeless through a clothing charity. Thrift Nation is an organization dedicated to improving social conditions by providing quality clothing to the homeless or those in shelters. They initiated the campaign where boxes are placed throughout campus for individuals to donate clothes and non-perishable foods. These donations help those in need by ensuring that they have the things they might otherwise not have access to.

“Wenzhou does not have much [of a] culture environment or meaningful activities like TEDx or others,” says co-founder of WIN, Jingyi Gu, a senior student at Wenzhou-Kean University. “The reason that I organized WIN is [to do] something special, not for [a] personal dream or scholarship.”

Photo courtesy of Wenzhou-Kean University

Jiaqi Ni

W

Staff Writer

enzhou Innovation Network (WIN) was formed by students in Wenzhou-Kean University in 2014. Its slogan “World in Neighbor” imports a high-quality speech material from various areas and industries in China, which establishes a mixed-media brand for sharing ideas in society.

The idea of WIN came from Oliver Ding, the sponsor of the TEDtoChina organization. The purpose of WIN is to gather valued information and influential ideas to present to audiences in Wenzhou. The goal of WIN is to create more local change-makers in this city, from “content conveying” into “practice implementing”.

Ding says, “There is a lot of things needing to

Uriel Solis | The Cougar's Byte

Students experience what is like to be hungry through a hunger simulation

From 2014 to now, WIN has already held four sessions at Wenzhou-Kean University. WIN invites many influential people from different areas in China to attend. For the first session of the “Origin” series on November 5, 2014, Guangtao Jiang, who is a famous voice actor in China, performed the voice for Jack in movie Titanic, Sam in movie Transformers, etc. He performs the life of a character by voice and performs different races, countries, centuries and even species to touch unique emotion from each entity.

ovember is Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Month. Annually, Kean University dedicates a week to ensure that the community acknowledges this month dedicated to two of the most widespread misfortunes that plague the world daily.

“Origin” derives from Latin and it means the beginning of everything, but full of possibilities to be everything. The definition of “origin” can be applied to WIN, unsure exploration and unlimited imagination. WIN will invite seven to eight people from different areas to one session series, and everyone will make a speech for free for 20-25 minutes at Wenzhou-Kean University.

From November 14 to 21, the Kean community contributed its time, energy, donations and labor through Hunger & Homelessness Awareness Week.

Through their dedication, students committed themselves to those without food or shelter. These various events were intended to inform, educate and spread awareness surrounding issues of hunger, homelessness, food insecurity and poverty.

The last session was “Artifacts,” held on Oct 10, 2015. “Artifacts” means object, a tool of human beings, but people are also artifacts, they are

Antonio Amorim, senior communications major, “I believe it [hunger and homelessness week] is important because many homeless have just fallen on hard times and any way college students can help, we should…”

The week of awareness took place as follows:

SEE "WIN" ON PAGE 2

Gaelle Gilles, junior English writing major, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.

Students gain Perspective On Being Hungry and Homeless

be explore in Wenzhou. This city played an important role in reform and openness since 1978 in China, which shaped a thought named ‘Wenzhou Model’. I am happy to see there is a new generation will develop a new Wenzhou for connecting with [the] international world.”

a famous voice actor guangtao Jiang

All in all we shall remember those who have served this country that is cherished day by day. This nation and its people wouldn’t be where they are now if it wasn’t for veterans. “Fewer than 10 percent of U.S. citizens can claim the title of veterans,” says Bustamante, “and far less than one percent is currently defending the U.S. on the global war of terrorism. Veterans have given us freedom, security and the greatest nation on earth.”

Aliyah Price-Perry

N

Staff Writer

■ On Saturday, November 14, students had the opportunity to participate in the Community FoodBank of New Jersey (CFNJ). Volunteers who choose the food bank as their medium of support can help in numerous ways. They can either spend their time sorting and repacking food for distribution, assembling outfits for children in the kids division, preparing the mass mail to help spread the word about hunger or even collecting food at community food drives such as turkeys for holiday. In whatever task they do, they make a tremendous difference in the life of a stranger. This cause was revisited on the Friday, November 20.

■ A few days following, on Monday, November 16, the university hosted the Stand Campaign.

Students stood in support along Cougar Walk with flyers and posters to raise awareness about global homelessness. While seemingly trivial, demonstrations like this have the capacity to significantly speak to the general population.

Many people are not aware of how truly pervasive these unfortunate circumstances are. Through statistics, quotes and advocating words, students are magnifying these issues to a world that is sadly, often desensitized.

■ Succeeding that the campaign, on Tuesday, November 17 volunteers went to the New Jersey’s Pediatric Mobile Food Pantry (NJPMFP). This

SEE "HOMELESS" ON PAGE 5 a Leadership and Service Publication for the Kean University Student Community

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Tuesday | November 24 | 2015

Kean University

Center for Leadership and Service

Is Social Media A New Type Of Resume?

Author Joshua Waldman comes to Kean University to share his latest book

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 viewed both online, at www.cougarsbyte.com, and in print, distributed biweekly to over fifteen 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 submission. To learn more about our publishing policy visit www.cougarsbyte.com.

Rose Marie Kitchen Senior Editor kitchero@kean.edu

Amanda Petty

Editor pettyam@kean.edu

Ojilvis Nunez

Creative Arts Manager nunezoj@kean.edu

Michael Dumaine

O

Staff Writer

n December 1, 2015, critically acclaimed author Joshua Waldman will be coming to Kean University’s Little Theatre.

Best known for writing the self-help book Job Searching with Social Media for Dummies, Waldman plans to expand his thoughts on job searching for college students and enlighten visitants on how social media can be used to benefit immensely.

Waldman’s visit to Kean University is hosted

by Campus Life Activities for Student Success (C.L.A.S.S.) and the academic lecture will be titled, “What your parents can’t teach you about finding a Job.” The event will take place from 3 p.m. and is scheduled to last until 4 p.m.

The goal of the event is to give students a chance to gain a fresh perspective outside their normal university professors. Waldman will expand on his most recent book, going into detail on the main concepts and ideas that he claims will guarantee an edge on the competition. Here is an excerpt from a passage in his book, “social media sites are proven platforms for facilitating connections,

Staff Writer bogertt@kean.edu

Michael Dumaine Staff Writer dumainem@kean.edu

Photo courtesy of Premiere Stages

Submit your works for the Bauer-Bocher Reading Series

Jiaqi Ni

Aliyah Price-Perry Staff Writer pricepea@kean.edu

Marlon Ramtahal Staff Writer ramtaham@kean.edu

Gabrielle Vicedomini Staff Writer vicedomg@kean.edu

Marlee Nicolas

Creative Arts Specialist nicolmar@kean.edu

Brooke Roderick

Creative Arts Specialist rodericb@kean.edu

Uriel Solis

Creative Arts Specialist solisu@kean.edu

Jailene Burgos

Creative Media Specialist burgojai@kean.edu

Emily Gabriel

Creative Media Specialist gabrieem@kean.edu

Lucas Hernandez

Creative Marketing Specialist hernluca@kean.edu

Carla Vitola

Graduate Assistant

Scott K. Snowden Jr.

Director, Center for Leadership and Service

hunt and to hear a published author speak his mind concerning the subject.

The first ten students to the event will be rewarded with a free copy of the aforementioned book, and the first fifty students will be rewarded with a surprise gift from the C.L.A.S.S. organization.

For more information contact C.L.A.S.S. or go to https://kean.collegiatelink.net/organization/class/ calendar/details/785375.

Don’t miss out on the chance to gain some invaluable knowledge regarding the future job

Michael Dumaine, junior industrial design major, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.

and

interests,

professional opportunity for an early career writer in the Kean community. Scarfuto states, “There are very few opportunities for early-career playwrights to develop their work in a professional setting. The winner will be able to continue to refine and develop their script, as well as gain an understanding of the professional play development process.”

Thomas Bogert

Staff Writer nij@kean.edu

and

demonstrating passions ultimately landing jobs.”

All Kean University students and alumni invited to submit original theatre writings

Creative Media Manager cheblyd@kean.edu

Staff Writer gillesga@kean.edu

Joshua Waldman and his latest self-help book

Become A Published Playwright

Dawlat Chebly

Gaelle Gilles

Photo courtesy of azendoo’s blog

Aliyah Price-Perry

P

Staff Writer

remiere Stages at Kean University is now accepting submissions for the Bauer-Boucher Kean Student/Alumni Reading Series. Named for long-time Premiere Stages supporters W. John Bauer and Nancy Boucher, this reading series is a competition wherein students or alumni submit playwrights of original ideas. The chosen winner will receive a one-day developmental reading of a new play on Monday, January 25, 2016, with a professional cast and director and a cash award.

The selected unproduced work is chosen because it is considered to be particularly promising; after the winning playwright is selected, it is developed and produced. Premiere Stages commits the entirety of its time, talent and resources to sharing this work with a broad regional audience.

Christine Scarfuto, Producing Associate/Resident Dramaturg for Premiere Stages, states, “This initiative was designed to give Kean [University] students and alumni the opportunity to have their work developed and performed by professional actors in front of a live audience.” Last year's winning play was entitled Letting Go, written by Kean University student Sahirah Johnson.

Playwrights interested must include a trio of materials with their submission: a brief synopsis of the play, a bio or resume and the script. At present, Premiere Stages is not accepting musicals or soloshow submissions; one-act scripts and full lengths will both be considered. There are few guidelines applicants are expected to follow. They are as follows: ■■ Playwright must be a current student or graduate of Kean University ■■ Scripts must be original, unproduced works that have not received a professional production ■■ Playwright must be available for a rehearsal and reading at Kean University on Monday, January 25, 2016 This is a particularly beneficial opportunity for aspiring playwrights. Competitions such as this one and the play festival are designed to offer a

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It is extraordinary that authors can showcase their pieces and receive feedback and advice for the future. Most importantly, it provides a medium of exposure for the author as these plays are frequently reviewed and scouted by major professionals.

Every year, new playwrights bring their fresh perspectives and ideas to the art form and the community. Any medium of writing is a form of creative expression. In college, where classrooms in which creativity is more or less confined, these extracurricular opportunities are crucial. Through Premiere Stages, Kean University provides a place where students can cultivate the creative areas of their minds that are sometimes neglected in traditional academic settings.

In doing this, Kean University is creating well-rounded, innovative and intelligent people.

Scarfuto states, “Professional development opportunities are important for university students across all disciplines and academic majors because it helps students to prepare for their professional lives.”

Premiere Stages is a professional theatre company in residence at Kean University. As an important dimension of the Kean community, Premiere Stages serves various functions. It supports and cultivates the works of emerging and regional playwrights and theatre artists, enhances the specialized training programs at Kean University, actively facilitates relationships between playwrights and theatre professionals and provides educational initiatives for the local and campus communities. Additionally, it is intentionally and consistently aware of the diversity on campus. Much of what Premiere Stages does commits to serving the cultural needs of New Jersey through the development and production of highquality theatre. By embracing their culturally diverse constituent, they are ensuring that Kean University is an environment where anyone can thrive.

Modeled after the Premiere Stages play Festival, Kean University offers opportunities such as the Bauer-Boucher Kean Student/Alumni Reading Series various times a year. In doing so, Kean University fosters positive character development, community support and healthy competition.

The final deadline for submission is December 15. Submissions should be emailed to Christine Scarfuto at cscarfut@kean.edu with “Student/ Alumni Reading Series” typed in the subject of the email. Electronic submissions are preferred.

Aliyah Price-Perry, senior sociology and psychology double major, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.

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WIN

(continued from page 1) enriched and full of characteristics. “Artifacts” invited seven speakers: 1. Tony Yet, the united-sponsor of TEDtoChina and planer in TEDxGuangzhou, wanted to convey thoughts in depth to make the audience discover the inspiration in “imagination and positive attitudes.”

2. Liman A, the curator in Taiwan Lushan Forest Cultural Museum, says “forest in our bank and the interest concept can help us to operate it continuously.”

3. Harry, the sponsor in Eat With China, which is a program for providing special family food by native people, gave a speech on traveling.

4. Baiyou Xiao, the Chinese wolf-dad, encouraged to push children by beating them for getting better futures, whose behavior became a hot topic in society.

5. Zhenyu Hu, the sponsor in “Lingke Spaceflight,” made the list of “40 business elites below 40 years old” in Fortune, China, 2014. He launched the first sounding rocket made by college students in Mongolia in July 2013.

6. Weijun Lin, the prize-winner in Cannes Lions Festival of Creativity, has 14 years working experience in sculpture, decoration, technological artist and other crossover areas.

7. Fujun Li, independent photographer and signed photographer of CFP, focused on the subject of “Anti-War veterans.” He visited around 100 veterans to hear their stories and to draw attention to this group of people.

It was an extremely amazing speech. To think critically, creatively and globally in a leadership, entrepreneurship, collaboration and cooperation manner, it was the perfect chance, especially for students in Wenzhou-Kean University, to broaden their education and thinking habits. The speakers give newer and wider thoughts for the audience to ponder, making them explore themselves while young and energetic.

WIN is just like my baby, I contributed my time to wait [for] it [to] grow up and to be successful,” Gu says. “Of course, I felt frustrated in some moments and wanted to leave this team, but it was really hard to give WIN up. The preparation work for an event is hard and frustrating because I was refused time and time again. Especially when the announced activity time [was] closing, when we still could not give a completed speaker list, I was disappointed and felt that I would break down. However, to be honest, when the event [was] successfully organized and audiences [were] satisfied with the event, I [felt] contented and it is worthless to put so much energy and time on WIN.” Let’s hope WIN can walk furtherer and cultivate more creative and thoughtful persons in Wenzhou.

Jiaqi Ni, senior finance major, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.

TUeSDaY | NOVeMBeR 24 | 2015

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Calendar of events Thanksgiving tea and bake sale!

11/24/2015 • 11:00 AM Gateway building on kean @ ocean campus Hosted by: Beta Beta Beta National Biological Honor Society - Kean Ocean Chapter

External Service Opportunities

11/24/2015 • 12:45 PM Miron Student Center, Involvement Center RM 303

Hosted by: Center for Leadership and Service

The Cougar’s Byte Tuesday

11/24/2015 • 2:00 PM Miron Student Center Atrium

Hosted by: Center for Leadership and Service

Managing Stress Workshop

11/24/2015 • 3:15 PM Maxine and Jack Lane Center for Academic Success, room 210 Hosted by: Office of Intervention and Retention

Thrift Nation General Body Meetings 11/24/2015 • 3:15 PM CAS 112 Hosted by: Thrift Nation

Historical Society General Body Meeting 11/24/2015 • 3:30 PM Hennings Hall 117

Hosted by: Historical Society

Peer Tutoring Session

11/24/2015 • 3:30 PM Science Building C243

Hosted by: American Chemical Society

Catholic Mass

11/24/2015 • 3:30 PM UC 226A

Hosted by: Catholic Newman Club

Earth Science Club Meeting

11/24/2015 • 3:30 PM Center for Academic Success Room 450 Hosted by: Earth Science Club

Talent show Auditions

11/24/2015 • 6:00 PM MSC Little Theatre

Hosted by: Kean University’s Men Of Excellence

Overcoming Anxiety

11/24/2015 • 6:15 PM Maxine and Jack Lane Center for Academic Success, room 210 Hosted by: Office of Intervention and Retention

Fit to be Kean - The MIXX with Alexandra 11/24/2015 • 6:30 PM Downs Hall

Hosted by: Health Services

Fit to be Kean - Kickboxing with Alexandra 11/24/2015 • 7:15 PM Downs Hall

Hosted by: Health Services

Fit to be Kean - Step Aerobics with Alexandra 11/24/2015 • 8:15 PM Downs Hall

Hosted by: Health Services

Walk, Talk, Look Like A Leader

11/25/2015 • 10:00 AM Miron Student Center, Involvement Center RM 303

Hosted by: Center for Leadership and Service

Being Presidential

11/25/2015 • 2:00 PM Miron Student Center, Involvement Center RM 303

Hosted by: Center for Leadership and Service

Women’s Circle General Body Meeting 11/25/2015 • 3:30 PM CAS 236

Hosted by: Women’s Circle

Fit to be Kean - Cardio Kickboxing with Matthew

Fit to be Kean - COUGAR Intensity with James

Kean Dance Theatre Fall Showcase

Hosted by: Health Services

Hosted by: Health Services

Hosted by: Kean Dance Theatre

11/25/2015 • 4:00 PM Downs Hall

11/30/2015 • 5:15 PM Downs Hall

12/1/2015 • 4:00 PM Wilkins Theatre

Fit to be Kean - COUGAR Intensity with James

Fit to be Kean - Circuit City with Carmen

Fit to be Kean - The MIXX with Alexandra

Hosted by: Health Services

Hosted by: Health Services

Hosted by: Health Services

11/25/2015 • 5:15 PM Downs Hall

11/30/2015 • 6:15 PM Downs Hall

Fit to be Kean - Circuit City with Carmen

Glance at our Culture (Around the World)

Hosted by: Health Services

Hosted by: Omega Phi Chi Multicultural Sorority, Incorporated

11/25/2015 • 6:15 PM Downs Hall

Fit to be Kean - Zumba with Carmen 11/25/2015 • 7:30 PM Downs Hall

11/30/2015 • 7:00 PM Miron Student Center Room 226

Fit to be Kean - Zumba with Carmen

Hosted by: Health Services

11/30/2015 • 7:30 PM Downs Hall

Thanksgiving Recess - University Closed

Pop Up Breakfast

Hosted by: Health Services

12/1/2015 • 8:00 AM Miron Student Center Atrium

11/26/2015 • 8:00 AM Kean University

Hosted by: Student Organization of Kean University

Hosted by: KEAN UNIVERSITY

Association of Computing Machinery meeting

Earth Science Club Annual Winter Preparedness Event

11/26/2015 • 3:30 PM Willis Hall Room 400

Hosted by: Association for Computing Machinery

Bake sale

11/30/2015 • 10:00 AM Gateway Atrium

Hosted by: Kean Ocean Pre-Law Society

IDSA Bake Sale

11/30/2015 • 11:00 AM Miron Student Center Alumni Atrium

12/1/2015 • 12:00 PM University Center

Hosted by: Earth Science Club

What Your Parents Can’t Teach You About Finding a Job 12/1/2015 • 3:00 PM Miron Student Center Little Theater

Hosted by: Campus Life Activities for Student Success

Hosted by: Industrial Design Society of America

MLK Bake Sale

11/30/2015 • 3:00 PM CAS 1st Floor

Hosted by: West Indian Culture Club

Pre-Law Society General Body Meeting

Self-Care Workshop

12/1/2015 • 3:15 PM Maxine and Jack Lane Center for Academic Success, room 210 Hosted by: Office of Intervention and Retention

West Indian Culture Club General Body Meeting 12/1/2015 • 3:15 PM UC 226B

11/30/2015 • 3:15 PM CAS 308

Hosted by: West Indian Culture Club

Hosted by: Pre-Law Society

OAS Video Game Tournament for Charity

11/30/2015 • 3:15 PM Miron Student Center Game Room Hosted by: Otaku Anime Society

ASA General Body Meetings

11/30/2015 • 3:30 PM CAS Building 112

Hosted by: African Students Association

Funk General Body Meeting

11/30/2015 • 3:30 PM CAS 247

Hosted by: Filipinos Uniting Nations at Kean

Haitian Student Association General Body Meeting 11/30/2015 • 3:30 PM UC 226A

Hosted by: Haitian Student Association

Student Occupational Therapy Association General Body Meeting 11/30/2015 • 3:30 PM East Campus Student Lounge: Room 203

Catholic Mass

See You Tomorrow

12/1/2015 • 7:00 PM Little Theatre, Mirion Student Center (MSC) Hosted by: Nu Delta Pi

Fit to be Kean - Kickboxing with Alexandra 12/1/2015 • 7:30 PM Downs Hall

Hosted by: Health Services

Fit to be Kean - Step Aerobics with Alexandra 12/1/2015 • 8:15 PM Downs Hall

Hosted by: Health Services

Fit to be Kean - Step Aerobics with Alexandra 12/1/2015 • 8:15 PM Downs Hall

Hosted by: Health Services

Founder’s Day

12/1/2015 • 9:00 PM Miron Center

Hosted by: Lambda Theta Phi

Relay For Life Team Captain Meeting 12/2/2015 • 11:00 AM MSC 226

Hosted by: Office of Student Government

Relay for Life - Team Captain Meeting 12/2/2015 • 11:00 AM MSC 226

Hosted by: Student Organization of Kean University

AToD Information Table

12/2/2015 • 12:00 PM Alumni Atrium

Hosted by: Alcohol, Tobacco and other Drugs Task Force

12/1/2015 • 3:30 PM UC 226A

Fundraising: Working Together To Raise Money

Knowing Who You Are: A Crash Course in Public Relations

Hosted by: Center for Leadership and Service

Hosted by: Catholic Newman Club

12/1/2015 • 3:30 PM Miron Student Center, Involvement Center RM 303

Hosted by: Center for Leadership and Service

General Body Meetings

12/1/2015 • 3:30 PM Green Lane Building, Room 306 Hosted by: Global Business Club

Kean Ocean Communication Club Meeting 12/1/2015 • 3:30 PM Kean Ocean Gateway Building

Hosted by: Kean Ocean Communication Club

7th General Body Meeting

12/1/2015 • 3:30 PM UC 228

Hosted by: Pan-African Student Union

Hosted by: Student Occupational Therapy Association

12/1/2015 • 6:30 PM Downs Hall

Earth Science Club Meeting

12/2/2015 • 12:30 PM Miron Student Center, Involvement Center- RM 303

General meetings 12/2/2015 • 3:30 PM Kean Ocean

Hosted by: Sigma Tau Delta International English Honor Society Kean Ocean Chapter

Forensic Psychology Club General Body Meeting 12/2/2015 • 3:30 PM Center for Academic Success Room 408

Hosted by: Forensic Psychology Club

Lambda Theta Phi Informational

12/2/2015 • 3:30 PM Miron Student Center Rm 312 Hosted by: Lambda Theta Phi

Candy Cane Sale

Hosted by: Kean Dance Theatre

Hosted by: Omega Phi Chi Multicultural Sorority, Incorporated

11/30/2015 • 4:00 PM Downs Hall

PRSSA Bake Sale

Hosted by: Health Services

12/1/2015 • 4:00 PM Center for Academic Success

IDSA Bake Sale

Hosted by: Public Relations Student Society of America

11/30/2015 • 4:00 PM Hennings Hall Lounge

12/2/2015 • 4:00 PM Wilkins Theatre

Deck The Halls

12/2/2015 • 5:00 PM Miron Student Center 315A Hosted by: Mu Sigma Upsilon

Lambda Theta Alpha Potential Candidate Meeting 12/2/2015 • 8:00 PM Miron Student Center 226A

Hosted by: Lambda Theta Alpha

Hosted by: Industrial Design Society of America

Recreation & Intramural Sports Schedule D'ANGOLA GYM FITNESS CENTER

Monday: ................12:30 p.m. - 10 p.m.

Tuesday, Thursday: .....8 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Wednesday: ...............11 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Friday: ....................12:30 p.m. - 4 p.m.

Saturday: .................... 12 noon - 4 p.m.

Sunday: .......................4 p.m. - 10 p.m.

D'ANGOLA POOL

Mon, Tues, Thur: .........8 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Wednesday ................11 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Friday: ...........................8 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Saturday - Sunday: .................CLOSED

http://intramurals.keanathletics.com

EAST CAMPUS FITNESS CENTER

Monday - Thursday: ....8 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Friday: ...........................8 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Saturday - Sunday: .................CLOSED

CAROLE HYNES FIELD HOUSE WEIGHT ROOM Monday - Thursday: ..12:00 p.m. - 8 p.m.

Friday: ....................12:00 p.m. - 4 p.m.

Saturday - Sunday: .................CLOSED

Monday - Thursday: ....8 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Friday: ...........................8 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Saturday - Sunday: .....10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

BARNES & NOBLE CAFÉ

Monday - Thursday: ....7 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Friday: ...........................7 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Saturday - Sunday: .....10 a.m. - 4 p.m. http://kean.bncollege.com /KeanUniversityBookstore

/KeanRec

/KeanRecreation

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Relay for Life - Team Captain Meeting 12/3/2015 • 1:00 PM J 136

Hosted by: Student Organization of Kean University

Time-Management Workshop

12/3/2015 • 3:15 PM Maxine and Jack Lane Center for Academic Success, room 210 Hosted by: Office of Intervention and Retention

Association of Computing Machinery meeting 12/3/2015 • 3:30 PM Willis Hall Room 400

Hosted by: Association for Computing Machinery

Minute to Win It with CLASS

12/3/2015 • 3:30 PM Miron Student Center

Hosted by: Campus Life Activities for Student Success

Christmas Tree Lighting

12/3/2015 • 3:30 PM University Center Square

Hosted by: Catholic Newman Club

General Body Meeting

12/3/2015 • 3:30 PM CAS 106

Hosted by: Beta Beta Beta National Biological Honor Society

Holiday Bake Sale

12/3/2015 • 4:00 PM CAS Lobby

Hosted by: Kean University Rotaract Club

Fit to be Kean - Boot Camp with Matthew 12/3/2015 • 4:30 PM Downs Hall

Hosted by: Health Services

Social Media Best Practices for Student Groups 12/3/2015 • 5:45 PM Miron Student Center, Involvement Center RM 303

Hosted by: Center for Leadership and Service

Studying/Note-taking Workshop

12/3/2015 • 6:15 PM Maxine and Jack Lane Center for Academic Success, room 210 Hosted by: Office of Intervention and Retention

Fit to be Kean - The MIXX with Alexandra 12/3/2015 • 6:30 PM Downs Hall

Hosted by: Health Services

Kean Dance Theatre Fall Showcase

Express Yourself

Hosted by: Lambda Theta Phi

12/1/2015 • 4:00 PM Kean University

Hosted by: Mu Sigma Upsilon

Hosted by: Lambda Theta Alpha

Kean Dance Theatre Fall Showcase

Fit to be Kean - Cardio Kickboxing with Matthew

Study Tips with the MUs

12/3/2015 • 12:00 PM Miron Student Center (MSC) Atrium

12/3/2015 • 7:00 PM Wilkins Theatre

12/1/2015 • 3:30 PM Center for Academic Success Room 450 Hosted by: Earth Science Club

Hosted by: Center for Leadership and Service

Cards for St. Judes

12/2/2015 • 3:30 PM Miron Student Center Atrium

Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness

11/30/2015 • 3:30 PM Miron Student Center Atrium

KDM Holiday Bake Sale

12/3/2015 • 12:00 PM MSC Atrium

/KeanBookstore

a Leadership and Service Publication for the Kean University Student Community

Hosted by: Kean Dance Theatre

12/3/2015 • 7:00 PM Cougar Den

Hosted by: Lambda Sigma Upsilon

Fit to be Kean - Kickboxing with Alexandra 12/3/2015 • 7:30 PM Downs Hall

Hosted by: Health Services

Pageant Informational

12/3/2015 • 8:00 PM New Upper Residence hall Mulitpurpose room Hosted by: Women’s Circle

Page 4

TUeSDaY | NOVeMBeR 24 | 2015

almost Time To Breakout The Dancing Shoes Students show support for KDM Kick-Off

Aliyah Price-Perry

D

Staff Writer

ance marathons are a nationwide movement wherein students and their surrounding communities raise money to donate, such as to the Children's Miracle Network Hospitals.

This incredible tradition has spread to almost 500 schools, both high schools and colleges alike. Terrance Somesla-McCornell, senior prekindergarten-12 special education and history major, states, “Other schools were doing dance marathons so we thought why not Kean [University]. Since then we worked with Lauren Rosenthal and she has worked extremely hard to create programs, fundraisers and events to make our KDM the best it can be.”

At Kean University, the dance marathon is affectionately referred to as KDM or Kean Dance Marathon. It is typically actuated by those within the community who create teams who compete to raise the most money. The teams at KDM can

Brooke Roderick | The Cougar’s Byte

Cheerleaders getting ready to perform at the kick-off be Greek, athletic, residents, alumni, faculty or whoever and there is no limit as to how many members can be on one team.

On Tuesday, November 10, 2015, from 2:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m., Greek Senate hosted the KDM KickOff. Students, faculty and alumni gathered in the balloon-and-streamer-adorned Miron Student Center (MSC) Atrium to enjoy music, baked goods,

pictures and performances. Attendees enjoyed a live performance by the Kean Gospel Choir, a show from the newly founded Kean University cheerleaders, and much more. Attendees could support KDM by purchasing baked goods provided

by Greek Senate and Greek life.

The kick-off was a fun way to get the word out about KDM and succeeded in its purpose: to inform. Somesla-McCornell references this as being one important way students can help the cause. He states, “Students can support the cause by simply just putting the word out about the KDM event. The more people know about the event the more people will come out and or support it. We are always looking for new people who want to help the cause and make a difference.”

Despite KDM being relatively late in the school year, the Kean community begins fundraising for KDM early. All throughout the year, leading up to the designated date of KDM, teams raise funds through bake sales, clothing sales, donations letters, canning and various other creative ways.

On the day of KDM, participants dance, eat and play games for 12 hours. Last year, KDM was in April from 12 p.m. to 12 a.m. and the event raised over $25,000.

This year, the goal is set “Students at is $30,000.

Emily Gabriel | The Cougar’s Byte

greek Senate during this year’s KDM kick off (L-R) Jordan Cahill, Secretary; Kyle Seales, Treasurer; Michael Marquez, VP of Community Service & Multicultural affairs; Whitney Wanton, President; James Beaty, VP of Membership Development; eder Solano, VP of Programming; Terrance Somesla-McCornell, VP of Public Relations

Additionally, participants form new relationships as they join teams and make friends. And because any and everyone is welcome to participate, KDM brings a diverse and vast community of people together.

S omesla-McC ornell continues, “…this event is for anyone who wants to help, so can support even if you aren’t in a the cause by simply just club or in Greek life you can still make your putting the word out about own team and join the the KDM event. The more event.” Consequently, people know about the people who may have otherwise never event the more people will met or interacted come out and or support are introduced to one another. Most it. We are always looking importantly, everyone for new people who want to comes together to help the cause and make a raise money for a good cause that nurtures the difference.” youth. Overall, KDM is really a unique way to Terrance Somesla-McCornell get everyone involved in something bigger than themselves.

KDM is an extraordinary opportunity for the general populace.

For students it can be particularly advantageous.

For those that create teams for KDM, they develop their critical thinking skills as they create new and innovative ways to raise money.

As young adults who are still developing their character, college students who participate in KDM are cultivating a spirit of giving, empathy and social responsibility. SomeslaMcCornell states, “KDM can be beneficial [for] college students by building character because it is an event that requires you to raise money for someone else other than yourself.”

For the second year in a row, Greek Senate is sponsoring and hosting KDM. At Kean University, Greek life embodies service, scholarship, individual growth, leadership, personal development, campus involvement and brotherhood and sisterhood. KDM

is a way for them to demonstrate, promote and maintain these ideals.

Somesla-McCornell asserts, “This program shows how actively involve[d] our Kean community is.”

Every minute, 62 children enter a Children’s Miracle Network Hospital for treatment—that's nearly one child every second. These dance marathons raise funds for nearly 200 children’s hospitals across North America. Since 1983, their efforts have raised more than $5 billion. These donations are dedicated to supporting research and training, purchasing equipment, and paying for uncompensated care.

In doing this, the cause provides millions of sick children comfort, treatment and hope. Whether they suffer from common childhood ailments such as asthma and broken bones, or combat larger challenges like birth defects or cancer, they have the support of the Children’s Miracle Network Hospital.

Since its introduction to Kean University, KDM has been an exceptional way to enhance the community and students simultaneously. Every year, when the time comes, everyone comes together to work toward the common vision of saving children’s lives. This year, Kean University is hoping to retain the title of the largest miracle network dance marathon in New Jersey.

To begin fundraising and or create a team for the event, go to the website http://keandm.kintera.org/.

Gaelle Gilles, junior English writing major, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.

First National Latin Fraternity Has Roots at Kean University

Lambda Theta Phi’s Alpha Chapter at Kean University celebrates 40 years Gabby Vicedomini

I

Staff Writer

n 1975, there were no strictly Latin fraternities in existence. Today, in 2015, there are over 20 established Latin fraternities across the United States and it all started with Lambda Theta Phi at Kean University, formally known as Kean College, on December 1, 1975.

According to Lambda Theta Phi’s website, “Lambda’s founders, as men of vision, realized there was a need to unite the Latino students, develop their leadership skills, impart upon them the value of an education, and instill in them a commitment to their community and culture. The traditional student club would not suffice to accomplish such lofty goals. Hence, Latino unity and brotherhood would be achieved through a long recognized institution – the fraternity.”

“Even though there is a huge age gap between us, it doesn't affect the bond that we have and has been created because of brotherhood" Ojilvis Nunez

Forty years later, the Alpha Chapter of Lambda Theta Phi at Kean University remains the largest and most popular Latin-based fraternity on campus. President Jonathan Journett, who is a senior biology major with a minor in Spanish, said that this organization has

Photo courtesy of Lambda Theta Phi

The brothers of Lambda Theta Phi during their annual founders day celebration always made him feel at home.

“All of the brothers welcomed me as if I was a brother already and I never felt that divide that some people may feel,” said Journett.

Being a brother of Alpha Chapter is not only unique but an honor that knows no comparison – to be part of the first chapter of now, the largest Latin fraternity nationwide requires a different level of responsibility.

This type of brotherhood is based on the principles of unity, respect, brotherhood, culture, and pride and the brothers of Lambda Theta Phi at Kean University uphold these standards in order to keep the founders’ dream alive.

Many members of the Alpha Chapter remain in contact with their founders as well as brothers from across the country. Journett himself is close with those at the University of South Florida – having visited them and vice versa. Brother and senior criminal

/cougarsbyte

justice major, Ojilvis Nunez, has had the privilege of meeting four out of the fourteen original founders and the Fraternal Father, Dr. Jose A, Quiles.

“Even though there is a huge age gap between us, it doesn't affect the bond that we have and has been created because of brotherhood,” said Nunez.

Every year at Kean University, Lambda Theta Phi hosts their annual Founder’s Day ceremony. This event is not limited to the Alpha Chapter – brothers from different chapters usually attend to honor their roots and meet face to face with the men who started it all. This occasion usually draws the upwards of 50 people from all over the country to take part in a candlelight vigil, the sharing of memories, and the bond of a fraternal family. This year, Founder’s Day will be celebrated on Tuesday, December 1, 2015, beginning in Miron Student Center (MSC) room 228 at 9:00 p.m. (This event is strictly for members of the fraternity only.)

www.cougarsbyte.com

The rest of this week will be surrounded with an array of events open for the general student body of Kean University as part of “Founder’s Week”. On Monday, November 30, 2015, the brothers will be tabling in the MSC Atrium to raise awareness for Alzheimer’s disease from 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. On December 2, 2015, they will host an informational for any prospective members. Finally, to bring Founder’s Week home on Friday, December 4, 2015, from 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. in MSC room 312, the gentlemen of Lambda Theta Phi will be offering tips on how to be the best men you can be with their “The Art of Being a Gentleman”.

Forty years, in any regard, is a milestone. The Alpha Chapter of Lambda Theta Phi is paramount to Greek life at Kean University because after its inception, many doors have been opened for similar organizations. This organization does not just represent Greek life but it signifies overcoming obstacles and facing adversities.

“Being from the first chapter of the first organization that started the Latino Greek Movement is a big deal,” said Journett. “As we always say, ‘the original is priceless.’”

For more information about the Alpha Chapter of Lambda Theta Phi, contact alpha1975chapter@gmail.com.

Gabby Vicedomini, senior English and communication double major, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.

Tuesday | November 24 | 2015

Page 5

Achieving Her Dreams One Day At A Time Scholarship recipient continues to work hard

“Being the first in my family to attend a university was a difficult shift when it came to all of the paperwork and the essays but it became a very overwhelming task. With the help of the people mentioned above, I was able to apply to many universities and managed to get accepted.”

She is interested in possibly becoming a guidance counselor at a high school, hold a mentoring program at a local recreational center like a Boys and Girls Club or be an Exceptional Educational Opportunities (EEO)/Educational Opportunity Fund (EOF) counselor to guide college students.

“My dream does not lie in a career but to pursue my dream and make it into a career,” said Morales.

Photo courtesy of Kean University Foundation

Alexis Morales receives her scholarship award

Rose Marie Kitchen

A

Senior Editor

pplying to college and choosing a career may be a nerve wracking time for any student but only a few are able to keep their calm through it all.

Alexis Morales, junior sociology major, has her feet planted firmly on the ground and has proven that she is at Kean University to stay. She is a junior transfer student. After deciding on which career would work best for her, she recently changed her major

from elementary education to sociology. She chose this major because she wanted to give back to the community through social work.

After college Morales is hoping to pursue a master’s degree in counseling. When she was little she explained that she always dreamt of being a bounty hunter but as she got older she realized that she had a stronger desire to help people in a different way; she explained it as the way that she has been helped.

“I have been helped by teachers, guidance counselors, mentors and so many other people,” said Morales.

Even though Morales is not part of any clubs on campus she is still very active and involved. She works for TutorTrac as an Academic Instructional Mentor in the Center for Academic Success (CAS).

and become a better public speaker.

“I know RAs are always the ‘go-to’ person when students need help,” said Morales. “I knew that this experience would also allow me to enhance my leadership skills; building a community of residents was also important to me. I knew taking on the responsibilities of an RA would not be easy. However, I know that I am an individual that works well under pressure.”

Everyday Morales works hard to achieve her goals and dreams. In 2014, Morales was the recipient of the Damarys Vazquez Endowed Memorial Scholarship.

Receiving this award meant a lot to Morales for many different reasons.

She explained that Mrs. Vasquez and herself shared “My dream does not lie in a similar lost; Mrs. Vasquez lost her daughter while a career but to pursue my Morales lost her mother dream and make it into a due to death. She explained career” that Mrs. Vasquez and her instantly connected at the Alexis Morales award ceremony.

“I love my job because it gives me the opportunity [to] help students schedule appointments for their academics,” said Morales. “I also get to interact with the great students at Kean University.”

Along with working for TutorTrac, Morales is also a resident assistant (RA) on campus. She wanted to become an RA because of her desire to become more involved on campus and gain a greater experience in her future field. The experience of being an RA has helped her become more creative, think on her feet

“Her daughter and I share this attribute and this makes the scholarship much more heart-felt than just an investment to my tuition…The Foundation Office has been a part of that help to me, and for that, I am forever grateful,” said Morales.

Rose Marie Kitchen, junior commination and journalism major, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.

Homeless (continued from page 1)

Meet The Designers

The Kean community has made it a priority to be an atmosphere of giving back, social responsibility and community advancement. Many of the causes work towards improving not only the students but their communities as well. As an environment of growth and learning, it’s critical to develop students who are empathetic to their surrounding communities.

Kean University believes it is its educational duty to encourage students to understand poverty and hunger on a global scale and try to make a change.

Graphic Organization: where students can develop their graphic design skills

Amorim explains the various ways students can take it upon themselves to help. He states, “…

Community outreach, soup kitchens, food pantry.

Any type of support within the community would help tremendously.” Each of these causes is helping someone transition into a better point in their lives.

Gaelle Gilles | The Cougar’s Byte

Members of GO! A graphic design organization

Gaelle Gilles

E

Staff Writer

very group or organization on campus would like to have great flyers, and posters to be posted around campus. In 2014, Kean University welcomed the Michael Graves School of Design, attracting many graphic designers to Kean University. The rise of graphic design students and the new school led to the student group Graphic Organization (GO!) to come into existence.

“GO! is a club focused around graphic design,” comments John Simons who is a sophomore majoring in graphic design with a focus of advertising. Simons, who is also the President of GO!, continues to say that “we assist in rebranding fellow clubs and designing posters, flyers, banners and business cards for any club [or club event].”

GO! wasn’t always about graphic design, though.

At one point, GO! had its focus on designing galleries. GO! didn’t officially become an organization until the spring semester of 2015.

There are currently 10 members of GO! As a member of this organization, a student is able to learn and gain experience preparing them for what will happen after they graduate. One way students are helped to become an experienced designer, is through a critique and assist session where members are critiqued on their work and then assist to help their design projects be the best that it can be.

Currently, GO! is deigning concepts for the

Association for Computing Machinery (ACM) event Hack Kean. At this event, students from high schools and other colleges will come together to learn about coding as well as make prototypes of innovations and ideas of attendees.

The spring semester of 2014 was the first semester that Kean Hack was hosted and it was so successful that ACM will be doing it again during the spring semester of 2016.

As Simons says, “anyone can join; design is not a subjective field.” For those who want to join and would like more information about GO!, please email GO! at thegraphicorganization@ gmail.com or visit them during college hour every Monday or Wednesday in room Studio A

“Anyone can join; design is not a subjective field.”

John Simons

on the fifth floor of the Green Lane Academic Building (GLAB).

Students can also follow GO! on several social media platforms, such as: Facebook - The Graphic Organization: GO! , Twitter - @thegraphicorg, Instagram - @thegraphicorg Gaelle Gilles, junior English writing major, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.

is a subdivision of the Community FoodBank of New Jersey wherein food is distributed to the local women in the community who are clients of the women’s clinic of one of three hospitals: Beth Israel Hospital, Trinitas Hospital or St. Joseph’s Regional Medical Center. Volunteers organized and distributed an array of food for the families who waited in a substantially long line, goods that these families would otherwise go without.

■■ On the 18 of November, volunteers used their time to make sandwiches for those who may not have a guaranteed meal for the day. All completed sandwiches were delivered to Saint John's Food Pantry in Elizabeth, New Jersey. From there, volunteers work copiously to distribute the food on a daily basis to the local homeless and working poor.

Students not only donated their time but also loaves of bread and other supplies, which frequently run out considerably quickly. A simple sandwich means the world to someone who is uncertain of where their next meal might come from.

■■ On Thursday, November 19, Kean University hosted its second annual Hunger Simulation. In it, students draw identities from a pot in which they will portray that person throughout the entirety of the simulation. This random identify could be affected by hunger and or homelessness. Students are enlightened as to the many directions that someone’s life can easily go once they are faced with such drastic hardship. Through this, students are exposed to the harsh reality that many people face daily and they experience what it is like to be poverty stricken.

■■ The ending of the official Hunger & Homelessness Awareness Week at Kean University was on Saturday, November 21. Students collaborated with Habitat for Humanity to work towards building a home.

The organization’s cause has built and rehabilitated more than 400,000 houses. This staggering figure only reflects the reality that the need is ever-present.

Through its work with them, Kean University is not only being proactive in their efforts, but is also giving back to the surrounding community.

A Leadership and Service Publication for the Kean University Student Community

In September 2015, there were 59,305 homeless people and approximately 795 million people in the world were chronically malnourished. These striking statistics illustrate the degree to which the world is pervaded with these issues. For those unaffected by these massive problems, the statistics are the one thing that makes these circumstances palpable. Former writer and political activist Eldridge Cleaver was once quoted as saying, “There is no more neutrality in the world. You either have to be part of the solution, or you're going to be part of the problem.” When people take a stance of indifference, believing their inaction it to be inconsequential, they have more or less chosen to condone the problem.

So while it is one thing to understand, it is another thing entirely to empathize. When people can begin to empathize with someone whose context is dramatically different from theirs, they can begin to genuinely support them and develop a vested interest in their well-being.

Amorim states, ““I’m currently taking community mental health with Dr. Bowe and she has taken us to feed the homeless at Penn station and it was heartbreaking to see how much help these people really needed.”

There is no part of the world that is untouched by these painful circumstances. These problems extend far beyond their obvious reaches; they affect education when children are too hungry to focus on school and they affect disease when homeless people do not have access to readily available healthcare. When basic amenities are not satisfied, life is minimized.

Kean University dedicates all of its resources toward ensuring that no one lives a life that is anything short of fruitful and fulfilling.

For more information, please visit the CLS in Miron Student Center (MSC) room 219 or call 908-737-5170.

Aliyah Price-Perry, senior sociology and psychology double major, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.

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TUeSDaY | NOVeMBeR 24 | 2015

It’s Bingo Time!

Join the Graduate and Part-time Student Council for a social of games and prizes

Psychology Organization Partners With PaR FORe For The Holidays

Join the Psychology Organization as they celebrate the holidays with children of the community

Photo courtesy of Graduate and Part-Time Student Council

gPSC gets ready to host bingo night in the Cougar’s Den

Gabby Vicedomini

T

Staff Writer

he Graduate and Part-time Student Council (GPSC) is inviting all students of Kean University to join them in playing Bingo in the Cougar’s Den on Friday, December 4, 2015, from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

After much consideration, GPSC decided it was time to initiate a social event on campus where students of all different ages and backgrounds could come together over a game that doesn’t involve physical agility. In recent years, bingo was gone out of style on college campuses and they decided it would be the perfect fit. Bingo is not only a classic but a game where everyone can enjoy by playing or just watching people get

excited over the calling of the numbers.

This is GPSC’s first event of this kind and they are anticipating a great turnout. They will have a range of mystery prizes ranging from small to big in size.

Treasurer Lawrence Owens feels that this kind of event is crucial to the student body.

“We thought it would be [a] great opportunity to put on a bingo event; it’s something different and also something that everyone knows and can enjoy for a nice Friday night,” said Owens.

For more information about this event, email GPSC at gpsc@kean.edu.

Gabby Vicedomini, senior English and communication double major, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.

Lambda Theta Phi Raising Knowledge On alzheimer’s

Fraternity to educate students on Alzheimer’s “We essentially can't say that it won't affect anyone in our age group,” said Journett. “Put this scenario into perspective: God forbid your grandmother, grandfather, aunt, uncle, father or mother wakes up one day and doesn't remember that you're a loved one, nor recognize[s] who you are? How would you feel?”

Ojilvis Nunez | The Cougar's Byte

Join LambdaTheta Phi on November 30, 2015, as they raise awareness for alzheimer’s disease

Tom Bogert

W

Staff Writer

ith November being Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month and Monday, November 30, being the first day of Founder’s Week for Lambda Theta Phi, the first Latin fraternity in the country, wants to kick off Founder’s Week right.

Furthermore, Lambda Theta Phi President Jonathan Journett, senior biology major with a minor in Spanish, has personal ties to the disease.

“Well, the reason as to why I decided to have this passive program was because my grandmother is suffering from the first stages of Alzheimer's disease,” said Journett. “Although she is taking medications, this is an irreversible disease and medications will only slow down the degeneration process.”

Alzheimer’s is predominantly more likely to occur on a person as their age advances but everyone in the world could be effected by it, irrespective of age. While it is extremely unlikely for a collegeaged adult to be diagnosed with it, that doesn’t stop Alzheimer’s from having an impact on students at Kean University as it is for Journett. The Lambda Theta Phi President feels this program is necessary, even if students here aren’t at risk to be diagnosed with it for the better part of half a century.

The fraternity will be handing out pamphlets detailing general knowledge on Alzheimer’s, something Journett feels is important. “It is important to have a general understanding as to what it is, how it effects the brain, how it could potentially affect you and as a general saying, "knowledge is power," as cliché as it sounds, you can never stop learning,” said Journett. “No matter what age you are or the time period a disease will trigger or activate itself, at the end of the day a disease is a disease and everyone should be aware of it and information on the topic could only benefit everyone.”

Marlee Nicolas | The Cougar’s Byte

give back to the community with Psy Org and PaR FORe

Gabby Vicedomini

T

Staff Writer

he Psychology Organization, also known as Psy Org, will be giving the gift of Christmas to those less fortunate this year. On Wednesday, December 2, 2015, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., Psy Org will be joining forces with the PAR FORE program at Kean University to host a party at Weequahic Park Golf Course Clubhouse.

This year will be the second annual Psy Org’s holiday party. The purpose of this party is to celebrate the holidays and give the younger people of the community something to look forward to. Activities such as ornament and Christmas card making will be available for all present; these gifts will be sent to individuals in patient care at a local hospital. Not only does the holiday party give Kean University students a chance to give back to the community, but it allows prospective students of the occupational therapy graduate program to become acquainted within the area of study due to the fact that PAR FORE is a part of the program.

PAR FORE stands for Perseverance, Accountability, Resiliency, Fellowship, Opportunity, Respect

and Empowerment and it is a community and occupation-based golf mentoring program for youth at risk, according to the PAR FORE-NJ page via the Nathan Weiss Graduate College website. Kean University’s Department of Occupational Therapy houses one of the three chapters of the program. This after-school program partners a youth with a Kean University student as a mentor. Participants also take part in individual and group sessions, engage within the community and are taught the game of golf to promote responsibility and proper etiquette.

Psy Org President Brandon Gooden created this event to network to the occupational therapy program and give members a fun and exciting end-of-the-year celebration to look forward to. “[This event] allows the PAR FORE kids to give back,” said Gooden. “Last year, the [members] wrote really heart-felt messages to the kids in the hospital. We hope to get the same effect at this year's event.”

For more information about this event, email Psy Org at psyclub@kean.edu.

Gabby Vicedomini, senior English and communication double major, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.

See What KDT Has To Showcase

Kean Dance Theatre will have an end-of-the-semester show On Thursday, December 3, 2015, KDT will put on stage the final product of what they have been working on the entire semester, the Kean Dance Theatre Fall Showcase. The show, which is free for all, will be held in Wilkins Theatre and will begin at 7 p.m.

“Put this scenario into perspective: God forbid your grandmother, grandfather, aunt, uncle, father or mother wakes up one day and doesn't remember that you're a loved one, nor recognizes who you are?

How would you feel?”

This year’s theme for the fall showcase is “Music Videos.” The focus of the theme will be on popular artists and popular music videos. Anyone who attends will see the show consisting of different styles such as jazz, hiphop, contemporary and tap with each performance being choreographed by a member of KDT. There will be two soloists, Nadia Bangura, a junior who will be doing a hip-hop piece, and Lucero Lopez, a freshman who will be doing two pieces a contemporary and tap piece.

Jonathan Journett

Alzheimer’s is a brutal disease for all parties involved, the diagnosed and their loved ones. The thought of a loved one forgetting who the people that surround them and love them most is a tragic, harrowing thought. As Journett mentioned, it’s an irreversible disease; there’s no remedy for it.

But doctors have improved in prevention and early recognition. The pamphlets handed out by Lambda Theta Phi will help students have a better knowledge on the bitter illness.

Tom Bogert, junior communication media major, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff

/cougarsbyte

Gaelle Gilles | The Cougar’s Byte

Come support the Kean Dance Theatre by attending their showcase

KDT has been a part of Kean University for over thirty years and was founded by the late William Chaison, a former Kean University professor, as well as a choreographer and a dancer. He founded KDT in the year of 1979.

Staff Writer

If anyone is interested in joining KDT, they meet every Monday and Thursday in the D’Angola Gym room 168 at 3:20 p.m. to 4:20 p.m.

hroughout the semester, just like every other Kean University athletic team, the Kean University dance team, otherwise known as Kean Dance Theatre or KDT, has been working hard to put on a fabulous end-of-the-semester show.

Gaelle Gilles, junior English writing major, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.

Gaelle Gilles

T

www.cougarsbyte.com

TUeSDaY | NOVeMBeR 24 | 2015

Page 7

MIRON STUDeNT CeNTeR

Students Come Together To Showcase Talent and Heritage

MSC INFO DESK P: 908-737-5222 Monday - Thursday:......7:30 a.m. - 12 a.m.

Friday: ....................... 7:30 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Saturday: ..........................8 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Sunday: .........................10 a.m. - 8p.m.

The Haitian Student Association hosted their first Apollo Soiree event. These specialized groups coming together helped represent something truly beautiful on a diverse college campus: love, honor and respect of one’s heritage.

Gabby Vicedomini | The Cougar’s Byte

e-board of The Haitian Student association with winner, Tyisha Cummings-Norman

Gabby Vicedomini

The opening act was one of music and poetry by Shawn Lawson. The first of his two original pieces was an intense and chilling spoken word poem about the life of an African-American male. Using the letters of the phrase “b-l-a-c-k m-a-n,” he assigned each letter a segment of words and rhymes that define men of color. More examples of culturally-fueled poetry were pieces by Rikkii “Rochelle” Rachel Orange, Charles Curtis III, Rijkard Herard and Mackenzy Samedi.

Staff Writer

“My culture will always be beautiful,” said Herard in his poem entitled A New Generation of Slaves.

ver 150 students piled into the Miron Student Center (MSC) Little Theatre on the night of Tuesday, November 18, 2015, for The Haitian Student Association’s (HSA) Apollo Soiree—a talent show of sorts filled with spoken word poetry, dance and musical acts.

When Samedi took the stage, decked in colors of red, white, and blue—the colors of the Haitian flag—his words echoed not only off the walls of the theater but in the hearts of everyone present.

Samedi began writing poetry when he entered a Mr. and Mrs. Haiti pageant in 2008.

Even though hosted by HSA, other student organizations such as Pan-African Student Union (PASU), West Indian Culture Club (WICC) and Iota Phi Theta, a national fraternity with strong roots in African-American brotherhood, also sponsored the

“Lakay Se Lakay!” Samedi exclaimed continuously throughout his poem Home Will Always Be Home, which is featured in his published book of poetry The Legacy of My Poems: The Psalms of A King. Voices of audience members chimed in over his reading with

O

The Spark Of Creation

A musical on healthy and prosperous beginnings

the popular Haitian phrase, bringing them back to days at home with their family reminding them that home will always be home. Samedi’s book is written entirely in English and Haitian Creole.

Other musical and dance performances included hip-hop duo 1804, singer Conrad McCutcheon, the electrifying and intense dancing of Tyisha Cummings-Norman, amongst many others. Finally, the contestants took to the stage for one last time and the audience used their roars of approval to choose Cummings-Norman as the winner of Apollo Soiree.

Cummings-Norman received two $25 gift cards to Barnes & Noble bookstores. “I just wanted to dance and express myself,” she said after being announced winner.

President of HSA Jonathan Medor said that the night went perfectly and was pleased with the student turnout. Hostesses and HSA- executive board members Alisha Dupont and Naina Mehrotra finally took deep breaths of relief when all was said and done with the event they had been looking forward to since the summer. In the end, the night was filled with appreciation and love of campus diversity all thanks to the talented students of Kean University.

Gabby Vicedomini, senior English and communication double major, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.

ears Open For The Holidays

MSC GAME ROOM Monday - Thursday:.........10 a.m. - 11 p.m.

Friday: ............................10 a.m. - 9 p.m.

Saturday: ........................10 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Sunday: ..........................10 a.m. - 7 p.m.

MSC COMPUTER LAB Monday - Thursday: .......8 a.m. - 11 p.m.

Friday: ..............................8 a.m. - 9 p.m.

Saturday: ..........................9 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Sunday: ..........................10 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Maxine and Jack Lane Center for Academic Success Monday - Thursday: ..................9 a.m. -8 p.m.

Friday: .......................................9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Saturday: .............................9:30 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Sunday: ................................................. Closed

Nancy Thompson Library

Monday - Thursday: ................. 8 a.m. - 2 a.m.

Friday : ....................................8 a.m. - 12 a.m.

Saturday: ..................................9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Sunday: .....................................1 p.m. - 9 p.m.

Monday - Thursday: 8 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Friday: 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Saturday: 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Sunday: 1 p.m. - 10 p.m.

Nancy Thompson

Library 1st Floor

Arturo Sandoval will play at Enlow Recital Hall

H O U R S O F O P E R AT I O N UPPERCLASSMAN RESIDENCE HALL

Photo courtesy of Kean Stage

Children of eden taking place in Wilkins Theatre

Marlon Ramtahal

F

Staff Writer

rom November 13 to 21, 2015, Kean Stage presented Children of Eden, a remarkable musical based on the first nine chapters of the Book of Genesis. The story focused on the beginning of time when God created the universe and introduced humanity with an eloquent and charming approach, all the while exploring a sense of curiosity when people have to make decisions for themselves.

Director Holly Logue believes the play is about family, second chances and love. “It is a richly rewarding piece, full of multi-layered vocals and a story that is both uplifting and relevant,” said the director. “It is an ensemble production, allowing students to work together to create the word of the play. It is physically demanding and vocally challenging, both of which are important in the training of actors.”

The play is separated into two acts. In the first act, attendees saw God with Adam and Eve. Everything seems to go perfect for the young couple as they explore nature and their meaningful relationship with one another. As they travel, they adapt to a perfect lifestyle. They believe nothing can possibly go wrong for them until one day when Eve walks around in a garden. She notices an odd-looking tree and brings it to Adam’s attention. God confronts them when they are in front of the tree and tells them to not go anywhere near it for it is the tree of knowledge. When Eve disobeys God and takes a bite of an apple from the tree, all goes awry. They soon become disconnected from the perfect life they once had and are sent to a world where all hope becomes lost.

Michael Hopkins, who is a freshman majoring in theatre performance, plays the role of Adam. “I am honored to be taking on such an important role as a freshman in my first semester. Throughout the entire rehearsal and performing process, I've been given the chance to really feel as if I was Adam and take on the role whole-heartedly,” stated Hopkins. He believes his character’s infinite wonder for the world around him is an important trait.

Daisha Davis, starring as Eve, is a senior theatre major.

“Eve's curiosity and ambitiousness makes her an important character in the play because it results in most of the conflict and makes it interesting,” said Davis.

In the years to come, Adam and Eve question their faith and trust when they are thrown out of paradise.

They are also given two children named Cain and Abel. As Cain and Abel age into their teens, they also begin to test their loyalty with God and their relationships with people surrounding them. In the play, Cain is seen as stubborn and selfish. He quickly learns how to adapt to a hard life after he disobeys his parents and accidently kills his brother Abel.

Throughout the second act, audiences see a change in time 1,000 years later. Noah and his wife build an ark while they also seek to find answers about their faith and trust in God. Just like Adam and Eve and Cain and Abel, Noah and his wife question God as they yearn to know why they have to build the ark and reasons on why they were chosen.

Xurong Kong, who is a History professor in Chinese literature and culture, thinks of the play as very touching and powerful. Her favorite scene of the play is when Noah announces his son, Japheth, as a groom to his newlywed wife, Yonah. “I love how much Noah values human’s needs more than God’s will,” said Kong.

Photo courtesy of Kean Stage

arturo Sandoval will play at enlow Recital Hall

Gaelle Gilles

O

Staff Writer

n Sunday, December 6, 2015, Arturo Sandoval will be performing at Enlow Recital Hall. With the holiday season in full affect during the month of December, Sandoval will be performing holiday favorites on the trumpet.

A previous student of the famous jazz trumpeter Dizzy Gillespie, Cuban jazz artist Sandoval began playing trumpet at the age of 13. At first he studied classical music, and it wasn’t until he reached the age of 16 he began to seriously study the art of Jazz with his idol Gillespie.

His dedication towards the art of jazz, Sandoval has won numerous awards, which include 10 Grammy Awards (he has been nominated 19 times), Emmy Award winner and the 2013 Presidential Medal of Freedom recipient. On September 17 of 2015, he will be honored with the Hispanic Heritage Award for the Arts.

“Children of Eden can appeal to any audience member, regardless of age, background, nationality or interest. It's a timeless tale that reaches across the stage to everyone,” said Terri Muuss, who is a proud alumna of the theatre department. Muuss said, “the play is an inspirational musical for parents and children about how important it is to resolve our family issues and move into a space of forgiveness and love and letting things go.”

Sandoval will be playing holiday favorites like “Feliz Navidad”, “The Christmas Song”, “It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas” and many more. One can buy tickets on the Kean Stage box office website at www.keanstage.com.

Marlon Ramtahal, junior English writing major, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.

Gaelle Gilles, junior English writing major, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff

Tickets range from $35 to $55. Make sure to get your tickets now before they sell out and watch one of the greatest trumpeters out there perform!

a Leadership and Service Publication for the Kean University Student Community

NURH Dining Hall Monday - Thursday: .... 7 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Breakfast: ............... 7 a.m. - 10 a.m.

Lunch: ..................... 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Dinner: ...................... 4 p.m. - 9 p.m.

Friday: ........................... 7 a.m. - 9 p.m.

Breakfast: ............... 7 a.m. - 10 a.m.

Lunch: ..................... 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Dinner: ...................... 4 p.m. - 8 p.m.

Saturday: ......................... a.m. - 9 p.m.

Brunch: ..................... 7 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Dinner: ...................... 4 p.m. - 8 p.m.

Sunday:........................ 7 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Brunch: ..................... 7 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Dinner: ...................... 4 p.m. - 8 p.m.

Please Note: The Dining Hall is open all day for the hours listed, the meal periods denote entree station availability.

MIRON STUDENT CENTER (MSC)

Food Court Monday - Thursday: . 7:30 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Friday: ...................... 7:30 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Saturday: ....................... 8 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Sunday:....................................CLOSED Jersey Mike's Subs: .... 11 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Cougar's Den Monday - Thursday: .. 11 a.m. - 11 p.m.

Friday: ......................... 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Saturday - Sunday: ................. CLOSED Market Place Monday - Thursday: .... 9 a.m. - 11 p.m.

Friday: ........................... 9 a.m. - 9 p.m.

Saturday: ..................... 12 p.m. - 6 p.m.

Sunday:.......................... 1 p.m. - 6 p.m.

MAXINE AND JACK LANE CENTER FOR ACADEMIC SUCCESS (CAS)

Starbucks Kiosk, 3rd Floor Monday - Thursday: . 7:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Friday - Sunday: ...................... CLOSED

EAST CAMPUS (EC)

Cafe Yumba Monday - Thursday:7:30 a.m. - 8:30 p.m.

Friday: ...................... 7:30 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Saturday - Sunday: .................CLOSED

STEM BUILDING

Kiosk Monday - Thursday: ...... 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Friday: ........................... 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Saturday - Sunday: .................CLOSED All Hours Subject to Change.

Page 8

Tuesday | November 24 | 2015

Meet The Muslim Student Association

Religious club allows students to stay close to their faith even while they are far from their homes environment. They raise knowledge about Islam as a religion and as a cultural basis, they pray together five times a day, they discuss prominent topics, through their actions and advocacy they actively try to rectify misconceptions and they host and sponsor numerous events every semester. With each event, meeting or simple discussion, they spread awareness and encourage people to expand their minds.

Aliyah Price-Perry | The Cougar's Byte

Muslim Student Association E-Board

Aliyah Price-Perry

R

Staff Writer

eligion is pervasive in society. In every diverse community with a large spectrum of people comes a wide range of religions. The Muslim Student Association (MSA) is one religious organization within the Kean community.

Despite being dedicated to the expression of one religion, there is no exclusivity involved; any and everyone is invited to be a part of MSA. In fact, people are encouraged to bring Muslim and non-Muslim friends.

Dalya Matari, sophomore communication major and President of MSA, states, “One thing we do [is] we let everybody express their selves, so no matter what they want to say they can say it there. It’s just a place where everybody is able to speak freely about what they need to.”

The Kean University population is characterized as a gamut of diversity. Every individual brings their own network of information, experiences and advice. In diverse communities it’s essential to recognize that to each culture, its religions and traditions are valuable. From an outside perspective, people should recognize that sanctity and be respectful of it.

Waseem El-Helw, sophomore major and Secretary of MSA, states, “Specifically for us in the MSA

here, it’s more of a notion of spirit in a world where everybody is telling us no no no and everybody is against us. We can show our unity, we can help enlighten the world and we can find our serenity there. That’s what the MSA is to us; it’s not just a club, it’s more of a lifestyle.”

Kean University ensures that no matter what context you come from, there is a place for each individual because each unique person adds an element of character to the community.

Through organizations and clubs, the university celebrates differences and unique insights that every person offers.

El-Helw continued “…a mosque that I go to is called ICPC and on a monthly basis they have meetings where he meets up with a rabbi, he meets up with a father, he meets up with a patriarch and they just have fundraisers. They sit there and they just talk.”

MSA makes it their personal mission to involve themselves in their surrounding world. By connecting on and off campus with as many organizations as possible, as frequently as possible, they are creating positive relationships with those around them.

El-Helw states, “Last semester we had a bake sale and part of the bake sale was for the woman to try on hijabs, see how you look in it…”

As an organization within a larger educational community, they work copiously to improve their

Educating Students On International Culture

CIS hosted week-long event on international education of students being invited to view a Bollywood performance held in Morristown. Another day, attendees were able to taste desserts from around the world. Not only that, but students were also able to contribute in a flag contest or a photo contest.

Even take a tour of the United Nations headquarters located in New York, New York.

Photo courtesy Center for International Education

CIS hosted a event to educate students, faculty and staff on international culture

Gaelle Gilles

F

Staff Writer

rom Monday, November 16 through Saturday, November 21, 2015, the Center for International Studies (CIS) hosted International Education Week. This event was held in the Center for Academic Success (CAS) building room 121 from 2:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Director of CIS Yaruby Petit-Frere comments that International Education Week served “to bring the Kean community together and celebrate internationalism and educate students on global interconnectivity.” CIS hosts this event every year in November and does so because “it is a national movement sponsored by the US Department of State through education,” comments Petit-Frere. “It’s done on an annual basis to raise awareness and celebrate educational exchange worldwide.”

At this event attendees were able to take pictures in a photo booth and wear international head clothing that is worn in different cultures. One day consisted

There was also a day dedicated to a Study Abroad info session. On Thursday, November 19, 2015, students were able to receive information on how they could study abroad and could even hear some students’ study abroad experiences. On the last day, Saturday, November 21, attendees were able to go to Bryan Park located in New York City and ice skate from 10:15 a.m. to 3 p.m.

If anyone was unable to attend any of the events during International Education Week, don’t worry.

Petit-Frere comments that CIS will “continue similar activities through the school year to engage our community and bridge American Kean community with our international population.”

The CIS is a department with a primary focus of “promoting a world-class education through actual practical activities and to expose our connectivity within Kean community,” comments Petit-Frere, “it is a space where every nation has a voice and are given the space to represent themselves.” CIS strives to promote international education around campus and host this event every year helps with the promotion.

To learn more about CIS, please visit www. keaninternational.com. To learn more about International Education Week, please visit the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs website.

Gaelle Gilles, junior English writing major, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.

/cougarsbyte

they also emphasize nonverbal communications.

Through their actions is how they express who they are and what they are actually about.

Tubah Yahy, senior elementary education major and Vice President of MSA, states, “These hijabs that we wear are a silent kind of conversation. It’s like you’re looking at us and this is how we behave, this is how we act.”

Because of their hijabs, women are the most El-Helm states, “the MSA is a club but we’re more obvious portrayal of their culture. Those in the blood brother[s] and blood sisters than anything MSA, especially the else. We look at each executive board, take other and we’re like it upon themselves ‘wow, we all come from to be positive the same land, we share "Especially with the media, representatives of the same roots, we try to the way they portray us, the Muslim culture. send the same message.’”

El-Helw elaborates, we have to voice our own “being on the board, MSA places a opinions, our own actual where I hold the heavy emphasis on name of MSA, conversation.

They beliefs rather than let people are like ‘wow, strongly believe that everybody go on what the maybe Islam isn’t through dialogue media is saying". what Fox News says people can really begin it is’…I can help shed to understand one Dalya Matari a little light and show another. Often times that we [as] Islam people are intimidated, are unity and we’re nervous or hesitant to peace. The word start a conversation.

Islam, the root word is peace.”

Consequently, despite their curiosity, they bite their tongues with topics such as religion. MSA believes Contemporarily, religion serves many purposes. Elcommunication to be critical.

Helw states, “…everybody believes in something, as long as you have that structure. [As people get further El-Helm states, “the first passage to come down from their faith] now they’re looking for the structure inside the Koran was God saying Ikra. It’s a general in the drink, in the society, in the parties, ect.” word for read, write, learn, converse, talk and establish a dialect.” In meetings they set aside time While every dimension of a person’s character is for current events. If there’s something going on dictated by context, being Muslim provides a context in the media and someone brings it up, everyone all its own. Human experience is characterized by voices their opinion. extreme diversity; in fact, no two people have the same exact life experiences. A lot of times people Matari states, “Especially with the media, the way let their differences act as divisors. People need they portray us, we have to voice our own opinions, to allow that which makes them different make our own actual beliefs rather than let everybody go them better. Life is much richer when individuals on what the media is saying.” embrace the various ways humanity presents itself.

The MSA supports any form of dialogue which will Stop by for an MSA meeting as they take place every open up an idea. El-Helm explains, “We enforce other Tuesday in the Center for Academic Success topics, that’s what the beauty of Islam is; it’s the (CAS) building room 442 during college hour. beauty of conversation, it’s the beauty of talking and establishing the ideas. Because everything can be a negative, but if you talk about it, that has the potential Aliyah Price-Perry, senior sociology and psychology to [positive]…” Not only do they stress talking, double major, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.

Jumpstarting Children’s Futures

Kean University students impact the lives of preschoolers Rose Marie Kitchen

K

Senior Editor

ean University is known for its teaching programs and teacher certifications; but what many don’t realize is that Kean University has a program dedicated to having its students gain real life teaching experiences.

Jumpstart is a national early education organization that recruits and trains college students to serve preschool children in low-income neighborhoods. This program partnered with Kean University in the 2012-2013 academic year; since then it has changed the lives of over 15,000 preschoolers in the City of Elizabeth, New Jersey.

"Jumpstart provides language, literacy and socialemotional programming for preschool children from under-resourced communities and promotes quality early learning for all," said Gina Miseo, Site Manager for Jumpstart at Kean University.

“Our proven curriculum helps children develop the language and literacy skills they need to be ready for kindergarten, setting them on a path to close the achievement gap before it is too late,” as stated on the Kean University homepage. “Together we are working toward the day every child in America enters kindergarten prepared to succeed.”

Students who are accepted into the Jumpstart program will receive full professional training in order to learn the essential skills that they will need in order assist in the classrooms. Upon completion of the training, students will then need to commit to a minimum of 224 hours in full school year —eight hours a week—as a Corp member volunteer. The time Corp members spent in the classroom allows them to engage with the preschool students and help them to get a "jumpstart" on their education.

“Preschoolers in low income neighborhoods are 60% behind their more affluent peers and [we need to] fill

www.cougarsbyte.com

Photo courtesy of Jumpstart

David Paul, Jumpstart Specialist reading to preschoolers. the literality gaps so that they enter kindergarten ready to succeed,” said Stephanie Merola, Jumpstart Specialist and elementary education major.

The Jumpstart program was brought to 62 universities and colleges throughout the country. It was created with the mission of battling the crisis in early literacy. The success of the Jumpstart program would not be possible without the commitment and passion of the Corp members.

“Jumpstart is extremely rewarding,” said Miseo.

“Since we work with children from under resourced communities, I feel that any intentional activities that we do help towards change. If it’s educating Kean University students on the education gap/ kindergarten readiness gap, or introducing new ideas/ vocabulary to the preschoolers, every little bit helps.”

If interested in becoming a member of the Jumpstart team, please contact Gina Miseo in the Center for Leadership and Service in the Miron Student Center, room 215 or email her at gmiseo@kean.edu.

Rose Marie Kitchen, junior communication and journalism major, is a member of The Cougar’s Byte staff.