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COOKing a witches' fingers cookie recipe that’s sure to spook

MSU haunts MARY MAYO DWELLERS, BEWARE!

BESTMAZE

Why they’re truly the “best maze” around

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WRITing

A HAUNTINGLY

GOOD TIME A letter from the editor

I was on a double date with my high school crush, my childhood friend and her boyfriend when I visited my first haunted maze.

Never a fan of horror movies, gory costumes or even the dark, going to this haunted maze was obviously not my idea – but because this potential budding relationship was something I wanted to work out and he seemed to like the idea, I decided to suck it up and pretend I wasn’t the baby that I was – and might still be today.

We arrived at the maze just before dark. A large bonfire was ablaze outside the ticket booth. “It’s not even scary,” I remember thinking. Stringed lights and jack-o’-lanterns, corn stalks and hay bales decorated the pole barn-like reception area. “I’m in luck!” I was relieved. This pole barn seemed much less frightening than what I imagined.

After a cup of hot cider, we ventured over to the start of the maze. At the entrance hung a wood sign that said “haunted maze” in red, poorly painted letters. I glanced back at the pole barn. My crush said to me, “you okay?” I turned to him, “Oh yeah, just excited! I love haunted things!”

“Oh!” he said. “I didn’t know, I guess you’ll like this then.”

He said as he glanced back at the barn.

We entered the maze, walked about 50 feet and turned the first corner. It became extremely dark and oddly quiet. I began to hear a rustling in the grass behind me. After checking behind me, I saw half of a man peeking out the side of the corn stalks.

I screamed the bloodiest, loudest, most horrific scream and ran.

I took off sprinting down the corn maze, only glancing back to see that there were now FOUR scary zombie men following us. My friend, her boyfriend and my crush had been apparently terrified by my scream, because when I turned around, I realized that they had passed me and were way up ahead.

I sprinted to catch them when all of a sudden another monsterlike creature jumped out in front of us, causing us to fall on top of each other.

My crush is now my fiancé and while we spend every fall doing all we can to avoid haunted mazes, this classic autumn experience is exactly what this season is about. Embrace it.

Megan Martin is the Editor of CAWLM and Communications Specialist at M3 group and a graduate of Calvin College in Grand Rapids. She is a foodie who loves art, tea, and anything outdoorsy.

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OCT. 2016 614 Seymour Avenue, Lansing, MI 48933 Phone: 517.203.0123 • Fax: 517.203.3334 PUBLISHER Tiffany Dowling SALES MANAGER Jennifer Hodges ACCOUNT MANAGERS Austin Ashley Megan Fleming Manny Garcia MEDIA SPECIALIST Jill Bailey PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Kelly Mazurkiewicz ART DIRECTOR Mark Warner COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER Ami Iceman EDITOR Megan Martin GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Kerry Hidlay Nikki Nicolaou WEB MANAGER Skylar Kohagen CONTRIBUTORS WRITING/VISUALS

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Give us a call at 517.203.0123 or email at ami@m3group.biz. ing Magazine is published monthly by M3 Group, Lansing, MI. All rights reserved. © 2014 M3 Group No part of this magazine may be reproduced whole or in part without the express written consent of the publisher.

CONTENTS ON THE COVER 4 MSU HAUNTS 6 COOKIE RECIPE

october

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8 BESTMAZE

FEATURing 12 COMING OUT OF YOUR SHELL 14 FEEL COMFORTABLE IN YOUR SKIN 16 SENIOR SCARIES

IN THIS ISSUE 11 MOVing 18 PHOTOGRAPHing 20 STYLing 22 HAPPENing 24 SHOWing

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GOing Mary Mayo Hall

TRUE MSU HAUNTS MSU students may not need to leave campus to find the scariest haunted “house”

BY DANIELLE SCHWARTZ

As Halloween approaches, Michigan State students may be hunting for frights at well-known haunted houses such as MSU’s own Haunted Auditorium or

Williamston’s Bestmaze corn maze. However, many of MSU’s buildings are rumored to be truly haunted, meaning you don’t even have to leave campus to experience the best scares of the season.

Perhaps the most timeless and famous legend at MSU is that of Mary Mayo Hall. As the oldest hall still being used as a dorm on campus, Mayo is considered the most haunted of them all. The fourth floor is home to the creepy and forbidden “red room” where undeterred students have explored only to find what they believe is evidence of satanic rituals on the walls. Jarek Schmidt, a sophomore studying business, knows Mary Mayo’s antics all too well. Schmidt claims to have heard the piano playing on its own at three in the morning, and he’s not the only student who has dealt with this phenomenon.

“My friend had a single [room] for the first week of school and every day she would wake up to her closet door swinging,” said Schmidt. “Other nights she would wake up to hearing her door knob being wiggled like someone was trying to come in ... ”

Photos by Danielle Schwartz

Mary Mayo Hall, the oldest hall still being used as a dorm, is home to the forbidden "red room" where undeterred students have explored only to find what they believe is evidence of satanic rituals on the walls.

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The haunting story surrounding Wonders Hall involves a true death. In 1999, a man’s body was found locked in an unplugged freezer in the basement. He was believed to have been trapped in the freezer accidentally, leading to his death. Jenny Walker, a Spartan Senior and member of

the MSU Paranormal Society, went on a haunted tour of campus that ended after a scare at Wonders.

“Every place we went was reading very low numbers, like 0-5… When we got there, the [Electromagnetic Field Detector] equipment wasn’t reading 0-5, it was reading way more, like 40-50,” Walker described. Her team left immediately, afraid of even being in the building.

Sophomore Emma Costantino is convinced that spirits also lurk in the Chemistry building. She described a night navigating campus during her freshman year: “It was dark, we were lost. I swear there was someone moving in [the Chemistry building] and when I turned around, they were gone,” she explained. She also heard from an RA that the Oak Room in the basement of Abbot Hall is haunted by the ghost of a student who died there.

“The whole set-up looked kind of gothic; it just looked old,” Costantino said as she reflected on the Oak Room.

Many other MSU buildings have their own odd stories.

Students who lived in room 666 in South Case Hall have trouble opening their door. Among other unexplainable noises in the Fairchild Auditorium, theater majors have heard a little boy roaming the rows of seats, unable to find his way out. Other buildings rumored to be haunted on campus include many of the dorms, such as Yakeley-

In 1999, a man’s body was found locked in an unplugged freezer in the basement of Wonders Hall.

Gilchrist, Holmes, Hubbard and Williams Halls, in addition to the MSU museum and Beaumont Tower.

Everyone seems to have their own unexplainable stories at Michigan State – and if you’re new around here, this Halloween there’s no need to go looking for haunts anywhere else — they’re right behind you.

Danielle Schwartz is a junior studying English and professional writing. She loves books, dogs and tea. Find her on a yoga mat or working with MSU’s Fourth Genre journal.

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COOKing

Creepy witches fingers

A spooktacular Halloween treat

BY HANNAH BULLION October is undeniably a college student’s favorite month. The weather is perfect, football season is in full-force and it all leads up to our favorite holiday: Halloween! Whether you’re more into the thrills of the season or the overload of treats, you’re going to love these “Witches’ Fingers” cookies. This recipe is simple, delicious and “finger food” approved (no pun intended).

Don’t let the spooky look of these cookies fool you. While they may look a bit crooked to eat, they’re full of sweet and buttery flavor, with a hint of almond from the “fingernail,” you’ll be reaching for more all night.

Senior professional writing student Sammi Ward’s favorite part of these cookies is that they’re not pumpkin flavored — the unanimously decided flavor of the season.

Hannah Bullion is a junior studying professional writing with a mad interest in all things social media. She hopes to flee the Midwest and pursue a career in fashion in New York City. She is also the social media director for MSU’s fashion and lifestyle publication, VIM Magazine and an intern for the College of Arts & Letters.

Photos by Hannah Bullion 6

OCT. 2016

“It always seems like the only thing to eat around the Halloween season is candy and pumpkin flavored things,” said Ward. “We deserve better treats and this cookie is perfect! It tastes kind of like a Christmas cookie but with a total spooky look and feel.”

Whether you’re throwing a spooky Halloween party or making a sweet surprise for friends and family, your guests may worry about eating finger food that looks like real fingers. However, they’ll be pleasantly surprised by how tasty these witches’ fingers are! Pair these ghoulish goodies with seasonal favorites such as caramel apples, cinnamonsugar donuts or apple cider for a spooktacular October spread.

Ingredients: • • • • • • • • •

1 cup butter 1 ½ cups confectioners’ sugar 1 egg 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Green food coloring gel 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon baking soda* 1 teaspoon cream of tartar ¼ teaspoon salt

Directions:

1. Cream the butter in a large mixing bowl with an electric mixer or hand mixer, gradually add sugar, beat until light and fluffy 2. Beat in egg and vanilla 3. Add in desired amount of green food coloring (a few drops is plenty) 4. In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking soda, cream of tartar and salt 5. Add flour mixture to the creamed mixture and continue to stir until it becomes dough-like — don’t be afraid to knead the dough with your hands 6. Once the mixture is at cookie dough consistency, place into a large pastry bag or plastic bag with one corner snipped off 7. Pipe the dough into finger-sized amounts onto a parchment paperlined cookie sheet. If you don’t have parchment paper, greasing the pan with butter will do the job 8. Once your Witches’ Fingers are all lined up, use the dull side of a butter knife to make lines suggesting knuckles, and add an almond for the fingernail 9. Preheat oven to 400 F 10. Chill the cookies for 15-20 minutes before placing in the oven 11. Bake cookies for 6-7 minutes

Optional: Use red icing if you want “bloody” fingers Recipe yields 3-4 dozen cookies *If you prefer a heavier cookie, add ½ teaspoon more of baking soda and chill the cookies for an extra hour.

MYINGMAG.COM

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n i t s o l t e G COVERing

e z a m t s e b EXPLORING EVERYONE’S FAVORITE FALL ACTIVITY

BY JESSICA GIBBONS

With fall comes cooler temperatures, colorful leaves and best of all, Halloween. One Halloween tradition that has stood the test of time is the corn maze. Come October, people of all ages choose to spend their nights and weekends getting lost in vast fields of corn. If that sounds like your kind of fun, Bestmaze in Williamston, located right off of I-96, is the place for you.

The 16-year-old Bestmaze, in many people’s opinion, really is the best maze in Michigan. But how does a corn

maze manage to stick around for that long? To learn the secrets behind Bestmaze’s success, we went and talked with the owner and operator, Mark Banjamin.

Among other duties involved in owning this operation, Banjamin creates all of the maze designs. He spends around 100 hours in the winter sketching and doodling in order to come up with a design that he likes. Banjamin explained that his way of designing his mazes is different from how others design them.

“Most mazes are cut as one giant picture, but a giant picture doesn’t let itself become a great maze. I make small pictures inside of a really hard maze.”

This design style is one of the reasons that Bestmaze is so challenging. Within the maze, there are multiple loops and true dead ends, so that maze goers actually have to figure the maze out, rather than having multiple correct paths that they could take.

Mark Banjamin, owner and operator of Bestmaze in Williamston.

Photo by Stefani Chudnow

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OCT. 2016

This year, Banjamin based his design on the hugely successful movie “Finding Dory.” The theme for the maze is “under the sea” and the trails are cut into the shape of a clown fish like Nemo and Marlin, a blue tang like Dory, a sea turtle like Crush and an octopus like Hank. You are provided a color map to follow, but that doesn’t guarantee you will find your way out of the maze. It helps you see the different trails, but watch out: it is only 90 percent correct!

Photo by Kate Birdsall

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Another thing that sets Bestmaze apart from other corn mazes are the trails. Banjamin and his family hand rake over three miles of trails to ensure that they are smooth enough that wheelchairs can make it through the maze.

When you walk through the miles of corn you notice how wide and level the trails are, too, which is perfect for families with kids and those of us who are a little on the clumsier side.

Four safety towers are located throughout the maze where “maze cops” sit to keep an eye on visitors. The maze cops ensure that everyone is having a good time, and they can alert staff if there are people who need help exiting. There are also optional exits denoted by signs for those who want to take advantage of them.

The three mile-long corn maze isn’t the only attraction that Bestmaze has to offer! If you are brave enough to go through it, there is also a shorter, haunted trail. With $40,000 worth of animatronics and phantoms running around to scare the life out of you, this haunted trail isn’t for the faint of heart. Contained within are Michael Myers, Freddy Krueger, Jason Voorhees, demon bugs, a swamp, a graveyard, a crystal ball room and 12-ft. tall animatronic monsters that jump out at visitors.

After 16 years, the Bestmaze crew knows a thing or two about getting people to come and visit every season. Over the years, the maze has grown into what you see today.

They’ve even had to expand the parking lot twice in order to keep up with the demand.

“Our first year, our haunt was what people think of a typical farm haunt, kids running around going boo. Now we are as full-fledged as any big national haunt with all the animatronics.”

Photo by Stefani Chudnow

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OCT. 2016

Not only have the maze and the haunted trail gotten bigger and better, but Bestmaze has also added other fun activities for everyone to enjoy. This year, in addition to the mazes, there will be laser tag, a laser obstacle course and jousting!

How do they maintain such a thrilling experience year after year? Banjamin explained that in addition to a new maze design every season, he also changes at least 50 percent of the haunted trail to keep it new and exciting.

Bestmaze trades animatronics and decorations with haunted houses around the country in order to uphold the standard of excellence that people have come to expect.

“Michigan is the haunted capital of the world; there are so many haunted houses in southern Michigan. So I change mine every year as a reason to come to it.

Everybody wants that unique fall experience. The reason they keep coming back here is because of the extra things we do like the towers [or] the full-blown haunt out in the middle of a farm that they just don’t expect.”

The real question is – when are you planning your visit?

Banjamin said that if all you want to do is experience the maze, the best night to come is Friday. If you want to take on the haunted trail, then the best nights are Friday and Saturday. The rest of the information about the maze is available on their website, bestmaze.com. Tickets are $8 for the maze, $15 for the haunted trail and group rates are available.

Jessica Gibbons is a senior majoring in humanities pre-law with an additional major in professional writing. Her dream is to become a lawyer specializing in family law. She enjoys reading, playing with her cat and watching entirely too much Netflix.

MOVing

LOST ON CAMPUS

Google Maps: A freshman’s first friend

BY ANGELA SAVICH

New schedules to learn, new places to live, new experiences to be had and roughly 50,000 new faces.

This may sound scary to some; however, it’s freshmen who are beginning to live this reality as they start their first year at MSU. Diving head-first into learning how to navigate Michigan State’s campus of 5,000 acres can seem pretty intimidating, but we’re finding that Google Maps is the key.

“Before moving on campus, I thought that it would be hard to find my way around. I did get lost once or twice, but I just asked other students who were able to help me out,” said freshman Amanda Schlicht. “Navigating MSU ended up being easier than I expected.”

become pretty familiar with the location of all my classes and other places throughout campus [with the help of Google Maps].”

On top of learning their way around campus, freshmen are also beginning to realize that the things they once took for granted will be missed every day — no more air conditioning, home cooked meals or cuddles from their pets — it’s all sweaty nights and cafeteria pizza from here on out. Megan Krigner touched on this when describing her first days as a Spartan.

Alyson Anderson's first week was fairly similar.

“Now that I’ve settled in, I do find myself missing certain things about my hometown,” admitted Krigner. “I’m definitely excited to start making new memories here at MSU though. I know I chose the right place to do it.”

“When I moved to MSU I thought I was going to get lost often. Also, I was expecting to feel homesick due to the fact that I’ve never lived far away from home and I went in blind for roommates,” said Anderson. “After just one week, my fears turned out to be false. I’ve already

Angela Savich is a junior majoring in professional writing with an emphasis on digital and technical writing. She stays up later than she should, eats absurd amounts of pizza and enjoys spending time with family and friends.

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FEATURing

COMING OUT OF YOUR SHELL Some tips on “getting out there”

BY BEN LIN

Halloween is right around the corner and for many, that can only mean one thing: it’s time to dress up and go out.

Houses are lit up, music is blasting; all across campus people are having a good time. But not everyone’s Halloween is filled with excitement.

A more withdrawn person might look at the date that bookends October with fear, due to their personality rather than the Halloween spirit. With so much activity, it can be downright frightening to get “out there” for those who keep a low profile. And this fear isn’t just limited to Halloween — for the introvert, college as a whole can be a pretty intimidating place. Here at Michigan State, there are more than 40,000 students bustling around campus, which is quite a large crowd

to get lost in — and that crowd always seems to be dividing up into social cliques. With over 700 official groups and a thriving Greek life, it’s easy to see how this particular holiday might be a tad overwhelming.

It can be especially jarring for incoming freshmen. After spending over a decade with similar faces in elementary, middle and high school, suddenly being thrust into a new environment and forced to make new friends can be exciting for some, but terrifying for others. Elena Espinoza, a sophomore studying English, had some trouble when she first came to MSU her freshman year.

“Coming into MSU freshman year, I didn’t really have any friends here,” Espinoza said. “I mean, I knew a

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couple people from my hometown who were going here, but we didn’t really talk that much.”

Many can probably echo Espinoza’s sentiments. Leaving behind old friends is not an easy task and finding new ones can be even harder. It’s an uphill battle, definitely — but not one that can’t be overcome.

“Just leave your room,” Thalia Maronto, a junior studying English, put simply. “Sit down with people at the cafeteria and don’t be a jerk to people you meet on the street.”

It’s important to take initiative, but that can be difficult to do when you’re not used to putting yourself out there. You have to be willing to meet others halfway and there are a lot of ways to do that.

“I got a job and I found a lot of people I liked to hang out with there,” Maronto said. “You’re all stuck in the same boat, so you have that in common.”

Getting a job is a “two birds with one stone” kind of deal: make money and meet new people. Michigan State hires around 17,000 students every year for a myriad of

$

different positions, from cashiers to graphic designers, so it might be a good idea to do some job searching at msu.joinhandshake.com (formerly MySpartanCareer).

Of course, MSU has more social platforms to offer, other than just jobs, and if you don’t want to be employed try finding a club that interests you. If you missed Sparticipation, you can still find out about the plethora of student organizations on MSU’s student life website. Or, if you don’t find what you’re looking for, try starting one yourself! And make sure you get to know your classmates, they can be invaluable when finals come around and the going gets tough.

If you’re afraid of stepping out of your comfort zone - it’s okay. Everyone’s in the same position. Every class you take and every organization you join is a clean slate, a chance to start fresh. So this Halloween, go to a party, watch a scary movie with some friends or take a trip with your coworkers to a haunted house. Whatever you decide to do, just be yourself.

Ben Lin is a junior studying professional writing and looking to pursue education. He is part of the writing teams for MSU Telecaster’s TURN and SideShow. He really likes flannel.

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FEATURing

TO HAUNT OR BE HAUNTED? Feeling comfortable in your own skin is what really matters

BY ALLIE WILSON

While some are having a blast trying to decide what to be for Halloween, others are struggling with who they are.

The month of October isn’t only for Halloween fanatics, but also for members of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex and Asexual (LGBTQIA) community. National Coming Out Day (NCOD) is celebrated by many this fall.

This year marks the 28th anniversary of NCOD celebration. National Coming Out Day was founded Oct. 11, 1988 by Robert Eichberg and Jean O’Leary on the anniversary of the 1987 March on Washington for Lesbian and Gay Rights.

“National Coming Out Day is a day that those in the LGBTQIA community can come together, support those who haven’t come out yet or who are struggling with their sexuality,” said Morgan Dunnuck, an animal science 14

OCT. 2016

junior at Lansing Community College. “We can rally around them and hopefully give them the hope, trust and support that they deserve. For those who are already out, it is a time to remember where we’ve come from, to celebrate our pride.”

What does National Coming out Day mean to members of the LGBTQIA community?

“National Coming Out Day is a significant day to most LGBT [community] members, but it symbolized more to me before I was ‘out.’ It symbolizes a day where LGBT people can look back or look forward to when they can or did come out,” said Brenna Johnson, a pastry chef at Gigi’s Cupcakes in East Lansing. “Before, I looked at National Coming Out Day in hope. In hope that one day I could have a significant day. Now that I am out, I don’t really have a coming out story — which I’m grateful for.

My dad asked me one day, ‘So is she your girlfriend or something?’ and I said, ‘yeah, you could say that.’ And ever since, nothing has changed between my family and me, in fact we grew closer.”

National Coming Out Day promotes awareness of the issues that members of the LGBTQIA community face. It is also a chosen day for people to come out to themselves, their family and their friends.

“My greatest advice for someone coming out would be to truly, deeply, love yourself. Even if you’re unsure of these feelings or how deep or how serious they are,” Johnson said. “If being with that person makes you happy, be with them. Fight for love, for equality and for yourself.”

“This day is both celebratory and mournful. A celebration of living and being queer, but there are folks who aren’t to that place in their lives, and may never be,” said Casey Miles, Assistant Professor in Writing, Rhetoric and American Cultures at Michigan State. “And then there are the people who we’ve lost, either because they came out, or because they didn’t. I’m talking about the violence of both murder and suicide that comes with this day.”

Because the month of October is seen by many as just the month of Halloween, where does that leave those who feel “closeted?”

“I’m not sure. Halloween is often seen as ‘gay Christmas,’ so some folks might feel left out,” Miles said.

What can we do as a community to make sure everyone feels accepted and comfortable with who they are?

Attending LGBTQIA events helps people find their community. Straight allies are always welcome to these events as well.

Finding a safe place is important, whether it be an actual place, family member or friend. One of the most important things is feeling comfortable in your own skin, especially before exposing yourself to others.

Some advice for anyone who might not yet feel comfortable coming out: “Find someone to talk to: a 1-800 help line, a counselor, a mentor. The first thing I did was say it out loud to myself: ‘I’m gay,’” said Miles. “But also, you don’t have to come out. Keeping yourself safe is an act of survival and sometimes survival means silence, and that’s ok.”

Allie Wilson is a senior professional writing major from Niles, Mich. She currently works in the Writing Center and is an intern for Espresso Book Machine. When her nose isn’t buried in a book, she spends her free time obsessing over Grey’s Anatomy and eating.

She aspires to be an editor for a publishing firm that specializes in young adult fiction.

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Photo by Natalie Gotko

FEATURing

A case of the senior scaries Horror movies aren’t the only thing frightening seniors at MSU

BY DIANA NICOLETTI

It begins with a slight tickle in the back of your mind.

As time passes and the real world looms overhead, this tickle begins to grow, triggering the amygdala (the part of the brain associated with fear), which results in clammy hands and an anxious feeling that burrows in your chest.

As the sweat drips from your back and forms pit stains underneath your arms, you suddenly realize what’s going on; you have a serious case of the senior scaries.

With a diagnosis of the senior scaries, you may find yourself suffering from fears thousands of other seniors across the country are starting to face as they begin their last year of college. And while bumps in the night and

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OCT. 2016

black cats may be scaring other Michigan State students this October, the only thing more frightening to seniors than a haunted corn maze is the realization that the best four years of their lives are coming to a bittersweet end.

While pursuing a double major in international relations and political science, senior Kayla O’Callaghan is one of many who has felt her senior scaries creep in as she shares what terrifies her the most about her impending graduation date this coming May. “The idea of being a real adult is scary mostly because I don’t really know exactly what I want to do with my life

yet,” O’Callaghan said. “I know that once I decide what I want to do I’ll be successful, but four years has not been enough time for me to realize what my passion is.”

So, as the nights begin to dim, earlier rather than later, and the leaves transform from vivid greens to shades of auburn and maroon, O’Callaghan is in good company this October; as many more Michigan State seniors feel the pressure of “the real world” looming closer.

Elaine Bageris, a senior pursuing a marketing degree at Michigan State, also shares O’Callaghan’s worry of finally finishing undergrad.

“Going into senior year, I was most nervous for [college] ending,” Bageris said. “I had an internship this past summer and I kept saying that I wanted to take advantage of my senior year. I want it to be the longest year of my life.”

While working an 8-5 job with Meijer in their merchandising department this past summer, Bageris gained some insight into what a potential future career was about to offer once she completed her spring semester at MSU. “It was definitely a wake-up call to the real world,” Bageris said, laughing. “So now that it is senior year, I need to take advantage of it.”

Like Bageris and O’Callaghan, senior Gabe Catenacci, a philosophy and humanities pre-law double major, has a similar case of the senior scaries as he takes on his last year of undergrad.

“I am nervous about finding a stable position right after graduation,” Catenacci explained. “I have the LSAT coming up, then I will be going on to grad school, all while trying to find internships. It’s a bit nerve-wracking.”

So as many seniors begin to feel that tickle in the back of their mind reminding them that this is it, this is their last hurrah, know that you’re not alone if you’ve caught a case of the senior scaries.

Moving forward and on to a new chapter is quite intimidating, especially when the previous one is branded as the best of the best, but life has a funny way of working out in the end. It’s okay to worry about the big, bad “real world,” but get excited for what’s to come.

Diana Nicoletti is a senior pursuing a double major in professional writing and creative advertising.

When she isn’t typing away, she is jamming out to Fleetwood Mac and discovering new albums to spin on her record player, appropriately named Stevie. Follow her on Instagram and Twitter at @dnicks23.

Not just another showtime!

includes movie ticket, loaded fries* and a draft beer, Starry Night Cocktail or a Mountain Dew Frozen. * Loaded fries are subject to change

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HUMANS OF E

BY STEFANI CHUDNOW

JESS S. RESIDENTIAL COLLEGE IN ARTS AND HUMANITIES (RCAH), FRENCH EDUCATION

Do you have a fond memory of Halloween on campus?

Last year was my first year on campus, so a bunch of friends and I dressed up and rented one of RCAH’s big music rooms, and we had our own dance party with snacks.

What’s your Halloween guilty pleasure?

I eat ridiculous amounts of candy corn.

What are you most haunted by this semester?

My organizational skills.

What was always your favorite costume growing up?

I was a cowgirl for three years in a row, and I had a little sheriff’s badge and everything.

Is there an MSU haunt you’re looking forward to this year?

I actually do want to go to Haunted Auditorium because I’ve never been there before.

Do you have a favorite scary/Halloween movie?

I gotta say “Hocus Pocus.”

MAXIE F. THEATRE

Do you have a fond memory of Halloween on campus?

I have never been on campus for Halloween so far, but I will stay this year.

What’s your Halloween guilty pleasure?

Trick-or-Treating is definitely something that I still do.

What are you most haunted by this semester?

The fact that Charles (my dorm ghost) is gone.

What was always your favorite costume growing up?

My favorite from my childhood was when I was Richard Henry Lee, the founding father.

Is there an MSU haunt you’re looking forward to this year?

Haunted Auditorium.

Do you have a favorite scary/Halloween movie?

“The Orphanage.”

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OCT. 2016

EAST LANSING MITCHEL NO PREFERENCE

Do you have a particularly fond memory of Halloween on campus?

Last year, I was Julius Caesar and the bottom of my costume, which was white to start, was all black by the end from mud.

What’s your Halloween guilty pleasure?

Candy. Crunch bars were always my favorite as a kid.

What are you most haunted by this semester?

My roommate is convinced our room is haunted.

What was always your favorite costume growing up?

Jeff Gordon [NASCAR driver], when I was little and I might have been him a few times.

Is there an MSU haunt you’re looking forward to this year?

Haunted Auditorium, I don’t know of much of [the others].

Do you have a favorite scary/Halloween movie?

“Scary Movie.”

MONICA B. RESIDENTIAL COLLEGE IN ARTS AND HUMANITIES

Do you have a particularly fond memory of Halloween on campus?

Just hanging out with my friends, taking pictures, watching scary movies.

What’s your Halloween guilty pleasure?

Candy.

What are you most haunted by this semester?

Debt.

What was always your favorite costume growing up?

A fox.

Is there an MSU haunt you’re looking forward to this year?

No, I’m not.

Do you have a favorite scary/Halloween movie?

“Hocus Pocus.”

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STYLing

Which type of Halloween costume should you wear?

Decide which Halloween style fits your personality with this quiz With so many different Halloween costume options, you might be overwhelmed by the ultimate decision for the holiday: what to wear.

Take this quiz to find out which type of costume suits you!

BY NATALIE GOTKO

What's your favorite party scene?

What would your superpower be?

A. B. C. D.

A. Enter any movie/book

B. Transport to new places C. Eat whatever & never gain weight D. Shape shifting

House parties Frat houses Bars Co-ops

What’s your idea of a perfect vacation?

What's your favorite store to spend time in?

A. B. C. D.

A. B. C. D.

Cabin getaway A weekend of Netflix binges Tropical beach vacation Road trip with your best friend

Record stores The Dollar Tree Victoria’s Secret Michael’s

If you won the lottery, what’s the first thing you would do?

How much time do you take to get ready on the average day?

A. B. C. D.

A. B. C. D.

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Go on an adventure Buy a car! Or a house! Or everything!

Go to a spa Buy a new wardrobe & change my image

OCT. 2016

10-15 minutes 10 seconds I don’t really keep track 30 minutes plus

What’s your biggest pet peeve?

What is your biggest social weakness?

A. B. C. D.

A. B. C. D.

People with bad tastes in music, movies & books Slow walkers People judging others on appearances Someone taking credit for something you did

I never understand pop culture references I’m always running late & making people wait I’m never taken seriously I have a hard time putting my ideas into words

What type of movie do you enjoy watching the most?

Which word do people use to describe you?

A. B. C. D.

A. B. C. D.

Indie films Classic films Rom-coms Dramas/Musicals

Weird, but in a good way Innovative Attractive, both inside and out Artistic

Mostly A’s

Mostly B’s

Mostly C’s

Mostly D’s

Indie movie character. Think Wes Anderson movies are cool? Well imagine coming up with an outfit to match your favorite character.

You are unique and interesting and should have a costume that shows people that at first glance. Get used to explaining your costume to almost everyone you see though it’ll be totally worth it. Watch some of your favorite movies for inspiration and get creative.

Last minute fix.

You’re the type of person that doesn’t have a costume until the night before.

This means you’ll have to think outof-the-box or go basic. Craft your own animal ears with a headband and some scrap paper and pair it with a black dress.

Or make a nametag that says “Jake from State farm” and own those khakis and polo shirt.

Sexy and skin showing. Halloween is one of the rare holidays where you can wear little clothing and still get away with it.

Perhaps you can be the classic school girl to show some cleavage or rock some Spandex as a volleyball player.

Or consider going shirtless and being a modern-day Tarzan.

Show stopper.

You love getting your hands dirty and going all-out for Halloween.

Buy some stage makeup, some fabric and show the beginners how it’s done. If you’re looking for fantasy, consider being a fairy. Looking for a more gruesome look? Perhaps play around with fake blood and be a zombie. The longer it takes to get ready, the better the result.

Natalie Gotko is a junior double majoring in marketing and professional writing.

She loves to travel, journal, and attend Spartan football games.

She’s currently an Event Director for the University Activity Board and has been involved in other leadership positions on campus.

Lauren & Shanon Wieber

BE

I save lives by racing and raising for the cure. You can, too.

Be More Than Pink.

Get screened today. Make a donation to support local Komen programs. komenmichigan.org

MYINGMAG.COM

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HAPPENing

ARTS OCT. 1 - 31 Taking Back Detroit Exhibit This exhibit at the MSU Museum features photographs from a recent National Geographic article by MSU alumna, Susan Ager called “Taking Back Detroit.”

The article explores the city of Detroit’s comeback since filing for the largest municipal bankruptcy in U.S. history back in July 2013. The photographs from that story, taken by photographer Wayne Lawrence, and a newly created National Geographic map of Detroit, make up the exhibit. For more information, visit museum.msu.edu.

OCT. 1 - NOV. 23 Up Cloche: Fashion, Feminism, Modernity Exhibit Rejecting tradition by embracing more body-conscious styles, the young American “flapper” of the 1920s wore her newly won freedom to vote, earn and learn on her body — short dresses and clear stockings, bobbed hair and a head-hugging cloche. The cloche — a bell-shaped hat considered “clever” and “smart” — framed the face with Art Deco panache. Explore how American women of the Jazz Age used fashion to become modern at the MSU Museum. To learn more, visit museum.msu.edu.

students. For more information, contact Kathleen Adams at adamsk10@msu.edu.

OCT. 27 Wind Symphony The MSU Wind Symphony, conducted

by Kevin L. Sedatole, will be performing on Oct. 27 at 7:30 p.m. at the Cobb Great Hall, Wharton Center. Admission is $10 for adults and $8 for seniors, free for students. Tickets are available from College of Music box office, (517) 353-5340, online or at the door.

OCT. 30 Spartan Spectacular An annual tradition for Green and White faithfuls since 1971; Spartan Spectacular offers an exciting musical experience for the entire family. The program features performances by the Spartan Marching Band, MSU Wind Symphony, Jazz Octet I and other top ensembles from the College of Music.

Tickets are $12 and $10; $8 tickets available for groups of 25 or more, available at Wharton Center ticket office only, (517) 432-2000, (800) WHARTON, or whartoncenter.com. Add $3 for Wharton facility fee. This is not a College of Music fee. This event is generously sponsored by MSU Federal Credit Union.

SPECIAL EVENTS

OCT. 22 State Singers and University Chorale Jonathan Reed and David Rayl conduct the State Singers and University Chorale as they perform on Saturday, Oct. 22 at the Fairchild Theatre, MSU Auditorium.

Admission is $10 for adults, $8 for seniors and free for students. For more information, contact Kathleen Adams at adamsk10@msu.edu.

OCT. 2016

MSUFCU Dinosaur Dash

Symphony Band and Concert Band

MSU Museum’s annual MSU Federal Credit Union Dinosaur Dash is set for Sunday, Oct. 2. The 5K race is a fall favorite and a long-time benefit for the MSU Museum educational programs.

Dashers compete in several different divisions and dinosaur trophies are awarded to overall male and female winners in both the running and walking categories. The 5K run/walk starts at 10 a.m. near the MSU Museum, 409 W. Circle Drive.

Both bands will be performing on Tuesday, Oct. 25 at 7:30 p.m. at the Cobb Great Hall, Wharton Center. The price is $10 for adults, $8 for seniors and free for

The event offers three special runs designed for the younger crowd: The Museum Mile for kids 12 and under; the Mini-Dash, a 200-yard sprint for kids

OCT. 25

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OCT. 2

6 and under; and the Diaper Dash. All participants receive an official Dinosaur Dash medal.

OCT. 12 1966 Game of the Century 50th Anniversary Celebration Join us for a celebration of the 50th Anniversary of the 1966 “Game of the Century” played between MSU and Notre Dame. Hosted by MSU Archives and Historical Collections, the evening features a discussion of the game by 1966 MSU Spartan Football players, including Jimmy Raye, Clinton Jones, Sterling Armstrong and Jerry West. Sports radio broadcaster and author Jack Ebling will serve as moderator. Tom Shanahan, author of Raye of Light, will also join the discussion to provide insight into the historical importance of the “Game of the Century.” This event is free, open to the public and located at Conrad Hall. For more information, contact Megan Badgley Malone at archives@msu.edu.

OCT. 27 Nursing Career Fair This event is designed to connect employers with qualified students to fill open positions while providing a venue for students to explore the varied opportunities that are available to them when pursuing a degree in nursing. This event is for MSU students and alumni only. The Nursing Career Fair attracts 30-40 different health organizations that have full-time positions, externships and volunteer positions. This event will take place at the Spartan Stadium Office Tower, 4th floor from 6 to 8 p.m.

CONFERENCES & SEMINARS OCT. 3 Forest Paths: Distinguished Speaker Series Dr. David Cleaves, former climate change advisor with the U.S. Forest Service, will present “Forests, people and climate change: a new ‘no-normal’ world.”

Cleaves will discuss the relationship between forests and people and how they are being profoundly affected by

the changing climate. Parking will be provided at the Children’s Garden, 1066 Bogue St. in East Lansing. This free event will be located at the MSU Molecular Plant Sciences, Room 1200.

OCT. 6 The Immigration Debate: Open vs. Closed Borders Hosted by Carly Watson of the MSU Debate Team, this lively discussion includes two national experts, Bryan Caplan, George Mason University and Stanley Renshon, City University of New York Graduate Center. Event followed by reception. Please register your attendance by contacting Jef Croff at croffjef@msu. edu. This free event will take place at the Kellogg Center Auditorium from 2 to 3:30 p.m.

OCT. 14 Our Daily Work/Our Daily Lives Brown Bag Series This week’s presentation title, “The Brotherhood: Fiction and the Communion of Labor,” is presented by James De Monte. “Our Daily Work / Our Daily Lives” is a joint project that focuses on the artistic traditions of workers and on workplaces as contexts for the expression of workers’ culture. The richness and diversity of workers’ experiences and culture is explored and presented through an ongoing series of exhibits, lectures and presentations, writing and research projects, reunions and demonstrations and discussions. The program is coordinated by the Michigan Traditional Arts Program at the MSU Museum and the Labor Education Program in the College of Social Science’s School of Human Resources and Labor Relations. This free event will take place at the MSU Museum Auditorium from 12:15 to 1:30 p.m.

Oct. 24 Genetics Research Forum On Monday, Oct. 24 from 1 to 2 p.m., Dr. Ingo Braasch will speak on integrative biology, “Comparative Genomics and Gene Family Evolution in Vertebrates;” which will take place at the 1425 Biomedical and Physical Science Building. For more information, contact the Genetics Program Student Organization at (517) 353-9845.

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OCTOBER DÉCOR A guide to decorating your college living space for Halloween

BY TAYLOR DOWNS

If you’re anything like the majority of the Michigan population during October, your heart starts racing and your palms start sweating at the first sight of candy corn, crunchy leaves or even a sniff of a pumpkin-spice latte. Not to mention the fact that Halloween is quickly approaching, and while you may not have a clue as to what you’re going to dress up as, there’s no time to waste when it comes to decorations. Whether you’re living at home with your family, in close quarters with a roommate in the dorms or settling into your first apartment or house with some friends, ing Magazine’s got you covered on some fun and festive ways to get in the spooky spirit.

GLASS JAR LIGHTS

Perfect for any type of living situation, glass jar lights are an easy way to get in the Halloween spirit. All you’ll need are mason jars, scissors, something to draw your shapes, decoupage (equal parts water and white glue) and jar lights.

Whatever design you want, whether its pumpkins, candy corn or ghosts, draw the shapes and then cut them out with the scissors. Using the decoupage, paste the shapes onto the inside of the jar. Once you’ve glued the shapes onto the glass, place the lights inside the jar. Repeat these steps depending on how many mason jars you want to fill, and set them around your living room, bedroom or kitchen for some sparkly, spooky jars.

For an alternative option, replace the glass mason jars with plastic water or milk jugs. After you finish off the last of the milk or water, clean out the inside of the carton and let it dry. Next, with a black sharpie, draw whatever Halloween related shapes and characters you’d like.

Finally, fill the jugs generously with holiday lights. Line the cartons close to each other so the lights can be extended into each one easily. Place the cartons outside on your patio, inside on a table or close to a window so that they’re visible from outside.

PERMANENT MARKER BALLOON PUMPKINS

Who doesn’t love balloons? Grab some permanent markers, orange, white and black balloons, a helium tank

(if you want them to float) and ribbon. First, blow up the balloons using the helium tank or fill them with air. If you decide not to use helium, you can create the illusion they are floating by tying the ribbon on anyway, and taping the back of the balloons to the wall. Next, draw on pumpkin faces using a black permanent marker. Be careful while doing this, as the markers smear when wet. Lastly, tie the ribbons onto the stems of the balloons and voilà! Your balloons are done. Spread them around your living space or tie them together for a fun, spooky Halloween decoration.

WINDOW SILHOUETTES

These are great for Halloween, especially if there are kids (or college students in denial) trick-or-treating in your neighborhood. Using black construction paper and scissors, cut out shapes of ghosts, jack-o’-lanterns or candy corn and tape them to the inside of your windows. Leaving your lights on will show the paper against the windows, giving any trick-or-treaters a spooky sight.

LOLLIPOP GHOSTS

For a tasty decoration, lollipop ghosts are your go-to, simple option. If you’re throwing a party or just want to keep some candy around, grab some tissues, rubber bands, markers and lollipops for this Halloween decoration idea.

Using the tissues, wrap the lollipop so that they’re covering the edible part, leaving the stick end exposed. At the base of the lollipop, wrap a rubber band around until it’s secure around the stick. Lastly, draw on some ghost faces using various colors for each one, and you’re done! So simple.

BOTTOM LINE — Halloween is a time to go all out with decorations. So, no matter your living situation, use your creative side to get crafty! After all, it only comes around once a year. Happy crafting!

Taylor Downs is a senior professional writing major from Kalamazoo, Mich. You will almost always find her with coffee in hand or hyperventilating at Sephora. She loves going out to eat, indulging in TV reruns and spending time with her family and friends.

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