Pursuit | Fall 2013

VOLUME 4 | ISSUE 1 | FALL 2013

MICKEY HIKE

A MAN WITH A PLAN SEE PAGE 44

'FALL' IN LOVE WITH FASHION HOW TO DRESS IN FALL WEATHER SEE PAGE 8

MIRROR TWINS

A DOUBLE TAKE IN THEIR LIVES SEE PAGE 24

A CALIFORNIA BAPTIST UNIVERSITY PUBLICATION

PURSUIT | 1

EDITOR’S NOTE Every time I think of the title of our magazine, the verbal image that always pops into my head is "in the pursuit of happiness."

In the pursuit of happiness.

This phrase pertains to the act of striving toward a goal with the hope of happiness at the end. The dilemma is that in the pursuit of this happiness most don't stop to realize the delight surrounding them. We live in an fast-paced society full of classes, work, social events and so much more. Sometimes, it seems we forget to live in the moment. With all that life has to offer, laughs, cries and smirks are all shared to help define the moments spent with others.

The Pursuit staff worked hard this semester to grab moments in life and document them so we can reminisce and reflect. We watch as others scramble through life, we see their bliss and glee and have attempted to capture it in print. We took the glints of life in trends, travel, relationships, arts and lifestyle present on campus and captured them to be treasured.

In the pursuit of happiness we flourish in the journey.

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TOP PHOTO by Mercedes Lebron | COVER Photo by Jacob Armstrong

15 CONTENTS | ISSUE 1

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THE ROAD LESS TRAVELED INTO CBU The story behind the college choice.

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DESIGNER DOOR DECKS Name check!

FALL IN LOVE WITH FASHION The Cali-style Fall fashion trends.

'MERICA MELTING POT OF FASHION So many states, so many fashion statements.

SPRING FORWARD INTO FALL TRENDS Tips for healthy eating.

LIFESTYLE 15 16 22 22

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5 RECIPES TO DELISH RAMEN Spice up the original college food.

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MIRROR, MIRROR A double take in their lives.

CLASSROOM SURVIVAL 101 Please don't feed the teachers.

BROS VS. BESTIES Dynamic duos at play.

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THE FITNESS FIENS The schedule to healthy exercise for the body.

VIEWS OF HALLOWEEN Sacrilegious or not?

CYBER MONDAY VS. BLACK FRIDAY The competition for material goods.

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36 32 34 36

MAKE MAGIC HAPPEN Jumping through hoops for a role.

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HUDDLE UP ONLINE Make fantasy football a reality.

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PRINCESS KATIE PAVAO A royal business.

JOB REQUIREMENTS: PRAY AND SERVE What it's like to be an intern.

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TRAVELING ACT: LIFE WITH ELIZABETH Community theatre overseas.

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MICKEY HIKE A man with a plan.

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RIVERSIDE Where to eat, drink and shop.

CHILDHOOD MEMORIES Growing up with the stars.

EXTRAORDINARY: A NEW CONTEMPORARY MUSICAL Written and produced by CBU students.

TRAVEL

PILGRIMAGE TO EUROPE Trekking with Caleb Meyer.

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PURSUIT STAFF | FALL 2013 Jacob Armstrong, Megan Paulos, Holly Pope, Grace Belton, Delaia Federico, Jillian Johnson, Kira Kramer, Bradlee Locke, Lauren Rios, Sandra Romo, Monica Solano, Michael Chute, Andrew Castellanos | Not Pictured: Sarah Jane O’Keefe, Rebekah Wahlberg Kira Kramer Editor in Chief Photographer Bradlee Locke Managing Editor Spotlight Section Editor Megan Paulos Art Director Spotlight Designer Delaia Federico Design Editor Relationships Designer Jacob Armstrong Photo Editor Rebekah Wahlberg Copy Chief Lauren Rios Trends Section Editor Sam Palencia Trends Designer

Photo by Mercedes Lebron

Jillian Johnson Lifestyle Section Editor

Holly Pope Relationships Section Editor

Whitney Waters Copy Editor

Shayna Moreno Graduate Assitant

Brianna Nelson Lifestyle Co-Designer Senior Writer

Renee Flannery Senior Writer

Jessica Bills Photographer

Grace Belton Graduate Assitant

Shantal Haboud Senior Writer

Emily Gallina Photographer

Sandra Romo Adviser

Alex Korhely-Day Senior Writer

Jarel Roxas Photographer

Dr. Michael Chute Program Director

Stephanie Black Staff Writer

Fletcher Perkins Photographer

Joseph Chan Staff Writer

Sam Scissons Illustrator

Marielle Sedin Staff Writer

Jordan Singer Illustrator

Tim Kothlow Lifestyle Co-Designer Photographer Andrew Castellano Arts Section Editor Monica Solano Arts Asst. Section Editor Meghan Martinez Arts Designer Sarah Jane O’Keefe Travel Section Editor Photographer Steven Anderson Travel Designer Photographer

Hannah Llop Copy Editor Laura Quach Copy Editor

Pursuit Magazine is a student-produced campus publication of California Baptist University 8432 Magnolia Ave. | Riverside, CA 92504

PURSUIT | 5

THE

ROAD LESS

TRAVELED INTO

BY MARIELLE SEDIN

Put down the prom tickets. Forget the SAT results.

It is time to pick up the list of pros and cons for each college that sent a shining beacon of hope — otherwise known as an acceptance letter.

Some students hope the answer will be clearly laid out on the table — acceptance letters rising to the top to them which school to attend.

The questions of where to go, what to do and ultimately who the individual wants to become, turn incredibly real after receiving a high school diploma.

Sarah G. Kuramoto, junior nursing major, originally planned to attend college to study medicine.

After three years of high school in Japan, Kuramoto’s next step was taking entrance exams into medical school.

“I studied to take the entrance exams throughout high school, but I guess God had a different plan for me,” Kuramoto says.

When plans fell through, she had to decide between waiting to retake the entrance exams the following year or attending a junior college to gain credits so she could eventually transfer.

“I was ready to go to college instead of being stuck trying to get into college,” Kuramoto says.

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Not all high school graduates plan to receive higher education. Some dive into the workforce, travel abroad or find internships in their prospective fields.

Matthew R. Perry, sophomore applied theology major, says he had no intention of attending California Baptist University. Instead, Perry planned on joining the Musicians Institute in Hollywood to pursue a career in drumming, but that plan took a different turn.

“I got an opportunity to speak at a youth group for Hillsong, and on that stage I felt like this is what I would do for the rest of my life,” Perry says.

Throughout high school, Perry’s life had been a struggle between living the church life that his family was accustomed to and the lifestyle of instant gratification that Perry found more pleasurable.

It was not until he rededicated his life to Christ that he received clearer direction toward the future.

“It took months after giving my life to Christ to really radically change,” Perry says. “It wasn’t an overnight process but God continued to give me strength, and opened doors for me to grow. He put a passion in my heart to serve in pastoral ministry.”

Even after two rejections from CBU, Perry says he did not lose faith that CBU would best prepare him for his future in ministry. Perry has found supportive teachers and friends at CBU that encourage him to make his goals for ministry a reality.

“I love CBU and couldn’t be in a better place to study, learn and prepare myself for pastoral ministry,” Perry says “I couldn’t be in a better place to serve God with amazing people and use the testimony God gave me.”

With many different possible routes to take after completing high school, once-prospective CBU students are now Lancers because of God’s direction and will for their life.

Photos By Fletcher Perkins

CRAZY FOR SCHOOL Matthew R. Perry proudly represents the school that took so much of his perseverance to get into.

I COULDN’T BE IN A BETTER PLACE TO SERVE GOD WITH AMAZING PEOPLE AND USE THE TESTIMONY GOD GAVE ME. PURSUIT | 7

FABULOUS FALL FASHION Vanessa Key, sophomore international business major, and Teslan Howard, junior nursing major, stroll outside of the James Building decked out in their fall fashion.

STAY COOL THIS FALL Howard and Keys sport Fall tones in their sweaters and in Keys' scarf.

Both wear brown boots to add more warmth.

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Fall

IN LOVE WITH FASHION

BY LAUREN RIOS

With temperatures sky-rocketing into the 90-degree range in the early months of the autumn, fall fashion is put on hold in Southern California.

Photos By Kira Kramer

SEARCHING FOR SWAG

Students at California Baptist University find the ever-changing temperatures a challenge to packing away their summer clothes and bringing out their fall fashions for the new school year.

Brittany Peterson, senior accounting major, says she finds that the temperatures in fall change from daytime to evening, making the night a prime time to bring out her fall style.

“I normally start wearing my fall clothing in October just because it’s still, typically, really hot until then,” Peterson says. “California weather, in the fall, typically cools off at night, so you have plenty of opportunity to show off your best fall fashions.”

On campus, students are seen in a variety of styles during the fall semester. Such styles range from shorts, a tank-top and flip-flops, all the way to sweaters, jeans and boots.

With the constant change in weather, students may find it hard to put away the clothes designated for a warmer season.

Ayodeji Idowu, junior graphic design major, says he also finds it problematic to decide when to begin adapting his clothing to the adjustment in Fall climate.

“I start wearing fall clothing around mid-October,” Idowu says. “It is difficult because California has random weather.”

Peterson says she tries to adapt to the colors of fall but feels it is necessary to keep her summer clothing handy.

“I wear more browns, oranges and other earthy tones to really feel the fall season,” Peterson says. “The weather is so unpredictable here that sometimes it’s almost pointless to pack certain clothes away.”

Keep past seasonal clothes within reach to make it easier getting through the warmer California temperatures in the early fall months.

Marielle Sedin ventures off to a Goodwill store to find the perfect ugly sweater for the holiday season.

UGLY SWEATER SWAG

BY MARIELLE SEDIN

A timeless classic, the ugly sweater has become a go-to clothing article and party theme for many college students welcoming the Christmas season.

Is there really a need to spend more than $10 or travel any further than your local thrift shop for a sweater that will go untouched the rest of the year?

Many students will grab a sweater with colorful threads, bells and trinkets to cover up a sewing machine malfunction in order to reserve a spot on the guest list of the parties hosted in honor of these thrift store finds.

Kendall Barkley, junior liberal arts major, hosted an ugly sweater Christmas party her sophomore year at California Baptist University.

“I love the search for the most unloved sweater that is so oddly appealing,” Barkley says. “Then, getting everyone together at a party to see what he or she came up with is even more exciting.”

These winter gems have moved from the season of Yuletide carols and snuck their way into the “any day” closet for most college students.

“I love going to the Salvation Army or Urban Outfitters and honestly finding one of the ugliest

things that I can and just trying to make it into something so pretty,” says Sienna F. Naggar, senior political science major. “So you can take an ugly piece and put it together with a whole bunch of stuff that is cute and you make a really good outfit.”

Urban Outfitters is an example of a retail store where many patterned crew-necks and cardigans-gone-wrong have become a fashion statement.

Justin Corrales, senior Christian studies major, can see the cycle of the colorful cover-ups.

“With ’80s and ’90s styles coming back, you can see how things have changed back to this trend,” Corrales says.

“I like the subtle ugly sweaters.

I tend to look for what other people won’t wear. I always try to be one step ahead of trends.”

Perhaps when Mister Rogers, character from PBS kids’ “Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood,” whipped out his mom’s handmade knitted sweater with pride, the fashion world changed.

Seeing how quickly these sweaters have climbed back up the style ladder, students may not have to look through the mall when shopping for sweaters this Christmas season.

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‘MERICA: MELTING POT OF FASHION

BY JESSICA BILLS

BY JESSICA BILLS & KIRA KRAMER

When many students travel overseas they usually see a difference in the attire many people of other nationalities wear. Interestingly enough, students on the campus of California Baptist University do not have to go overseas to see a difference in apparel.

Styles vary from coast-to-coast within the United States. With different climates throughout the country, how one dresses, typically, varies from region to region. Unlike Southern California, with its yearround moderate temperatures, other states may not have the luxury of wearing the same outfit all year.

Tiffany Houck, senior graphic design major, from Anchorage, Alaska, does not have the same closet as most Southern California women. In a colder and rougher environment, Houck has a different mindset when it 10 | PURSUIT

AL ASKAN THREADS Tiffany Houck represents her home state of Alaska in her fashion.

Photos By Jessica Bills

comes to picking what to wear.

“My go-to outfit when I’m in Alaska is probably my flannels, a nice pair of black jeans, either my Uggs or some sort of boots, and a beanie to top it all off,” Houck says.

Trends are also different from location-to-location across the country.

In Alaska, Uggs and XtraTuf ’s — extra tough rubber rain/snow/fishing boots — are a supreme necessity to withstand the icy winters.

Jacoby Smith, sophomore education major, has lived in Florida, Georgia, Wisconsin and California.

“People mostly wear clothing that works with the weather," Smith says.

"In Wisconsin, people seem to wear more modest clothes because of the cold weather.”

It seems modest is hottest, since it’s what keeps people warm in the bitter-cold Wisconsin weather. This is opposed to the general norm down in the Southern states.

“Near the beach in Florida, I saw a ton of short-shorts and tank tops," Smith says.

In other areas, weather seems to influence someone’s wardrobe less. In some regions, functionality is deemed less important and showcasing ones personality is of top priority.

In other areas, weather is less of an influencer of ones wardrobe.

Functionality is deemed less important and showcasing ones personality is of top priority. Some cities like New Orleans, Nashville, etc. develop reputations for having colorfully dressed locals.

The capital of Texas has the slogan, “Keep Austin Weird,” on vibrant colored T-shirts that Texans wear proudly. Many people in the city pride themselves of straying away from the normal garb associated with Texas – cowboy boots and wrangler jeans.

Just as the U.S. is a fusion of nationalities, it is also a fashionable fusion of different styles. We are united in freedom, but diverse in style.

LEARN TO MAKE A SCARF 1

BY STEPHANIE BLACK

Lay the shirt flat on ta hard surface and cut parallel to the bottom right under the arm crease all the way across to the other side.

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You should have a square left. Lay this flat on a hard surface.

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Cut 4-to-5 inch sections all across the bottom and top of the open sides of the square of fabric to create fringes.

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Pull and/or braid the fringes to add variety and length to your scarf.

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Now enjoy showing off your new handmade scarf as the weather is continuing to cool down.

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Photos By Kira Kramer

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5

DESIGNER DOOR DECKS

BY KIRA KRAMER

1 “Pinterest was my inspiration,” says Kelsie R. Markoski, senior graphic design major. “My roommate actually sent me a picture of something similar - a little bag and flowers. So I decided burlap, and since I’m a graphic designer, I wanted to incorporate design somewhere into my door decorations. So I designed the little ‘home sweet home’ graphic, and I used Pinterest to learn how to print on burlap and folded it in half and sewed it. I, then, went and picked wild flowers.”

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Walking through California Baptist University, on the way to find an apartment, you stop at a door and, about to knock, notices the names hanging on the door. None of the names belongs to the person for whom you are looking.

Glancing over to the next door, the correct name is spotted. You scoot over to the next door and knocks, relieved when the friend opens the door.

Resident Adviser door decorations: Saving one student from embarrassment at a time.

Door decorations can be seen on doors in most of the living areas on campus. RAs are known for crafting these creative nameplates for the residents in their respective areas. A few RAs describe their process.

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Alexis R. Patton, senior early childhood development major, explains that “Ephesians 2:10 inspired me, actually. ‘For we are God’s masterpiece. He has created us in Christ so that we do good things, and he has the things he has planned for us long ago.’”

Her colorful door decorations took some time and energy to create.

“It was quite a few hours of blow-drying crayons and hot glue and canvases, putting it all together and making it fun for my residents,” Patton says.

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Photos By Kira Kramer

Photos By Kira Kramer

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Meghan L. Ostrosky found inspiration out in nature for her residents’ door decorations.

“I was in the mountains and I saw chunks of wood sitting in the road, and I thought it would be cool for the men if I cut up the wood and painted the theme,” says the junior business administration major. “The theme went really well with it being ‘Navigate.’”

Shane G. Blake, senior English and behavioral science double major, was able to bring back his summer adventures for his unique door decorations in the cottages where he is an RA. “I spent the summer in Oregon, and for our youth group we had a lot of pallets and different shutters and stuff that we used for decorations,” Blake says. “I brought some back with me to use."

“My roommate last year actually had a tool called a wood-burner, and so last year I would just borrow his all of the time. This summer, I finally broke down and bought my own and used it to burn the names into the wood.”

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Amey M. Fenwick, senior early childhood studies major, also used Pinterest as her inspiration.

“I used paint, paper flowers, wooden frames, chalkboard paper — which was really cool because I didn’t have to paint chalkboard onto it — and then ribbons to hang them onto the nails,” Fenwick says.

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SPRING FORWARD INTO FALL TRENDS

BY ALEX KORHELY-DAY

Whether it is pumpkin pie, a deepfried turkey or a variety of spices filling every corner of the house, the food prepared in the kitchen during Fall is a sign of the holiday season to come.

As fall approaches, people are not only changing out their wardrobe but they are also switching out their summer food essentials with the fall food necessities.

Thomas Ordway, senior engineering major, says that he specifically notices an immediate change in seasons — from summer to fall — simply from his job at Starbucks.

“We are constantly changing our menu to cater to the variety of seasons, especially when fall rolls around the corner,” Ordway says. “We switch up from the seasonal fruity drinks to the pumpkin, caramel and spiced drinks that everyone waits for all year long.”

Baking increases as fall settles in.

It is inevitable to find those holiday sweets from pumpkin pie to spiced cakes to decorated sugar cookies.

It seems a new trend ventures out to try new places during the fall season.

With the change in menu, many people are interested to see what else is out there for them to try.

“I love going out during the fall season to different restaurants, bakeries and eateries to see what holiday treats they have to offer,” says Danielle Wesche, senior nursing major. “This is something that my family, friends and I love to do.”

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BANANAS|

GRANOLA|

| BERRIES

A SIDE OF ACAI, PLEASE

BY ALEX KORHELY-DAY

Without a doubt, it seems that it does not take long for society to become obsessed with the latest health fad for which everyone cannot seem to get enough.

Acai bowls recently became popular and are filled with flavor and health benefits.

The foundation of the bowl is the acai berry, along with the variety of toppings and extras added on top for an array of extra flavor.

The acai berry originates from the acai palm tree found in the Amazon in Brazil. Not only are they praised for being delicious, they are also extremely healthy and great for the digestive system.

Dr. Margaret Barth, program director of Nutrition and Food Sciences at California Baptist Wesche says that although the Fall is a time to splurge, it does not mean that healthy eating should be completely ignored.

“I try to keep in mind to keep holiday sweets to a minimum and still fill my plate with the healthy fruits and veggies of the fall season,” Wesche says. “I try to avoid drinking the sugary

University, says acai berries contain significantly higher antioxidant levels than most other berries, making them a much healthier food choice in most cases.

Besides the hype, Barth has her reasons for jumping on this trend.

They provide new ways to include healthy, nutrient — dense foods in the diet — that also have a great flavor profile,” Barth says.

Barth went on to explain the berries contain ascorbic acid levels similar to blueberries on a per gram basis, as well as being rich sources of flavonoids that decrease antiinflammatory properties.

Aside from berries, bananas, granola and other toppings you may enjoy, these new health craze bowls are action-packed with more benefits than just a simple great bite of flavor. drinks that always seem to come about in the fall.”

With the large variety of changes being made to the food menus, whether they be at home or at your local restaurant, it seems that it would be a shame to miss out on the fall foods that rarely disappoint.

Photo By Tim Kothlow

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Cheese Please Cheese, peas and ham make carbonara.

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Veggie Style Try ramen and fresh or frozen vegetables.

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LIFESTYLE

RECIPES TO DELISH RAMEN

BY MARIELLE SEDIN

F

irst, buy packets of any instant ramen noodle soup.

Follow the directions of cooking the noodles. Then spice up the college go-to food with a few of these recipes to have a tasty, home-cooked meal.

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Islander’s Taste Toss in fried eggs and spam.

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Lemon Chicken Garnish with chicken and lemons.

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A Unique Twist Broil milk, butter, ramen and cheese.

Photos by Kira Kramer and Jacob Armstrong

Don’t forget to make a little extra and share with friends. Good food and good company is always a great combination.

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CYBER MONDAY

BY BRADLEE LOCKE

Cold cement or comfy chair?

Camping out or buying throughout the day? Physically touching the item you are about to purchase or reading descriptions of it online? The dilemma: Black Friday or Cyber Monday?

Only hours after celebrating being thankful, many people all over the country rush to the nearest store for Black Friday in hopes of becoming the handful of customers to grab the latest deal on a flatscreen television. Black Friday, the day after Thanksgiving when stores offer steep sales, has been integrated into some people’s Thanksgiving traditions.

“We aren’t the ones who are camped out in front of Best Buy for a week waiting for good buys, but we do always go to the mall,” says Caitlyn Jones, senior psychology major. “I love it and hate it all at the same time. It’s fun to be in the crowds and push around to get DVDs for $2, but some people get vicious.”

According to the National Retail Federation, Black Friday brought in $59.1 billion in 2012, and the total number of customers topped 247 million.

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V

Illustration by Jordan Singer

S.

LIFESTYLE

BLACK FRIDAY Coming in not nearly as close — Cyber Monday — is the day of online sales following Black Friday, which brought in a total of $1.98 billion, according to Adobe Systems. However, this was a 17 percent increase from 2011, and it beat Black Friday with regard to online sales.

Statistics aside, the question still remains as to which day is better to shop. As more people begin to participate in Cyber Monday, could it eventually give Black Friday a run for its money postThanksgiving shopping in the years to come?

“Cyber Monday is easy,” says Chris Ellis, senior applied theology major. “You can do it straight from your home so you don’t have to worry about checkout lines. The best thing is how easily you can find the best sale. You can have multiple windows up looking at all your favorite store sales.”

"The only downside to the online shopping day is how easy it is to spend more money than intended," Ellis says.

For now, it seems to be a matter of preference.

Whether Black Friday or Cyber Monday, shoppers are guaranteed some of the lowest prices during the holiday season and, even more so, the competition against other shoppers for those low prices.

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LIFESTYLE

FITNESS FIENDS

BY JILLIAN JOHNSON

Health and physical fitness is a personal choice. For some, the walk to and from class is enough to increase their heart rate and make them feel that they were active for the day. For others, fitness can only be obtained through abiding by a strict regimen of diet restrictions and daily workouts.

The Recreation Center at California Baptist University has made it easier for students, both male and female, to achieve their personal fitness goals. The center is equipped with state-ofthe-art equipment and hosts a plethora of daily exercise classes for any fitness level.

A fit physique is more than just a toned outer physical appearance; it means to be able to have endurance and strength when pushing one’s body to the limit.

Whitman Beitel, senior mechanical engineering major, operates on a strict health and workout regimen to maintain his fitness. Beitel uses fitness as a stress-reliever and as a way to channel his aggression.

“Fitness puts you in a position where you can take advantage of life and enjoy the things it has to offer,” he says.

As an avid surfer, Beitel benefits from training in the gym because it helps him when he is out in the water being pummeled by large waves.

Aside from working hard in the gym, Beitel also maintains the same hard work in the kitchen.

“It can be difficult since the caf doesn’t offer the healthiest choices of food. … If you eat lots of fruits and vegetables, large quantities of lean meat, and a few carbohydrates, it isn’t too hard to balance out a meal,” Beitel says.

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Photos by Tim Kothlow

SWEAT IT OUT Whitman Beitel puts in multiple repetitions of bicep curls during his daily workout at the Recreation Center.

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LIFESTYLE Repetition and consistency are the keys to get your body used to such intense physical training. Whether you are attending CBU as an athlete or a student who is interested in ways to stay physically fit, nutrition is a key component in reaching fitness goals.

Shelly DeLeon, senior kinesiology major, is in the National Physique Association and competes in fitness competitions in her home state of Washington. Each day, DeLeon weighs her foods and only sticks to a strict diet of protein and carbohydrates.

DeLeon worked to decrease her body fat from 19 percent in May and has now dropped down to 13 percent in order to place well in her next competition. In just three short months, DeLeon dropped six percent of her body fat.

“Proper nutrition and amount of protein intake per day is going to help build muscle,” she says. “Rest is key to repairing your muscles.”

DeLeon has worked at GNC for over a year and has gained knowledge about women’s and men’s health that she has been able to apply to her own life.

“Time management is the hardest thing for me to stick to my diet and workout routine,” DeLeon says. “Planning gym time around friends and diets around eating out can also be tough to managed.”

Whether male or female, reaching one’s physical fitness goals can only happen by being intentional, dedicated and ultimately motivated to reach your fitness goals.

FACE OF DETERMINATION Whitman pushes his body to the limit as he maintains his physical physique through long hours of weight lifting.

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FEMALE FITNESS Shelly DeLeon, fitness competitior, breaks the female stereotype when it comes to her daily gym routine.

FITNESS BUFF SCHEDULE Matt Messner: 7—7:30 a.m.: Wake up; 30 minutes of cardio 8:30a.m.: Breakfast Eat every 2 hours and 15 minutes; usually 6—7 meals total consisting of a protein source, a healthy fat source and a vegetable.

3—3:30p.m.: After-class workout

Photos by Tim Kothlow

EEK!

RETAIL WORKERS STRESS AS THEY PREPARE FOR UP-COMING HOLIDAYS

BY JILLIAN JOHNSON

The hustle and bustle of the holiday season means a grueling and often difficult time for retail workers completing longer hours and supplying outstanding customer service to sometimes unpleasant customers.

Synthia Alanis, sophomore nursing major, works at Victoria’s Secret and has first-hand experience of what happens behind the scenes when working holiday retail.

Despite the tedious hours, Alanis says she found it rewarding to work retail during the holiday season.

“I had a lady hug me and cry when I found her a pajama set her granddaughter wanted,” she says.

The schedule may be taxing but the joy of assisting people in finding a suitable gift for a loved one seems to make the work and long hours worth it to most holiday retail workers.

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BY JILLIAN JOHNSON

Candy fills the aisles of grocery stores as spiderwebs cover the walls.

Carved pumpkins are propped up in front of houses, lit up with glowing faces at night.

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For some, Halloween represents a favorite childhood holiday filled with fun memories, dressing up and eating candy until their stomachs could no longer take another bite.

Some Christians find themselves conflicted with whether or not to celebrate this holiday.

“Some of my favorite memories growing up were, of course, trick-ortreating and dressing up, but also the whole atmosphere at that time of the year,” says Sara Piecukonis, sophomore

nursing major. “When I would see decorations at school and other places around my hometown, it easily put me into the Halloween spirit. I loved being a part of it.”

Helping her mother decorate their house and front yard was another highlight Piecukonis says she enjoyed about this spooky time of year.

The excitement of finding a costume and the hunt of finding one’s favorite candy makes Halloween an innocent holiday to some. Despite different views

Illustration by Sam Scissons

LIFESTYLE associated with this holiday, the Piecukonises, as well as many other Christian families, choose to put their own spin on the holiday and use it as an excuse to have fun and dress up.

For others, though, Halloween was not a holiday they celebrated with their families. Rather, they would participate in activities at their church or stay at home handing out candy.

While other children ran around the neighborhood the last night of October, Michaela Meeter, sophomore visual arts and psychology double major, and her family would spend quality time by having a movie night or by

visting her grandparents’ house.

“When I was younger, my family never really celebrated Halloween just because of what we had learned based on its origin,” Meeter said. “What I remember hearing was that a long time ago, Halloween was a way for people to dress up and scare away spirits.”

Whether dressing up, collecting candy or enjoying quiet time at home, Halloween represents a time of tradition and fun with family and friends. It seems the holiday can be either about what people believe in or just another fun time to celebrate life and can be used as an excuse to dress up.

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MIRROR R

twins

BY BRIANNA NELSON

Imagine growing up with someone who looks exactly like you but is the exact opposite. You are left-handed, but the person in the “mirror” is right-handed.

You just received a glimpse into the lives of freshmen twins Elizabeth and Hannah Gustafson and junior twins Jordan and Aaron Singer.

“It’s like being born with a best friend, we do everything together,” says Hannah Gustafson, freshman communication studies major. “When we go into a store and want to see an outfit, we make each other try it on so we can see what it looks like.”

Elizabeth and Hannah explain how everything they do is the same, yet opposite. Elizabeth is left-handed and Hannah is right-handed. They attribute this to being mirror twins.

“When we lost our first tooth, I lost my front right tooth and Elizabeth lost her front left tooth,” Hannah says. “And we both lost them on the same day.”

However, the differences that divide the twins into unique individuals are not always obvious to others — something mirror twins Aaron and Jordan Singer know too well.

“The differences are obvious to me and my brother but most people never seem to see them,” says Aaron Singer, junior civil engineering major. “I am more reserved while my brother thrives in an environment of numerous interactions with people. Not to say I am a recluse, but 24 | PURSUIT

Illustration by Delaia Federico

I tend to prefer to be alone at some point of the day.”

Because these differences are typically hard to discern, twins often use these variances to their advantage.

“It was in second grade and I was more rowdy then and Aaron more studious,” Jordan says. “One teacher wanted to play a trick on my teacher because they had a door connecting the rooms. I went to Aaron’s class, and Aaron went to mine dressed as me with glasses.

“My teacher realized quickly that it wasn’t me because ‘I’ went straight to work, which never happened because I would always talk about something to my friends.

I AM LINKED WITH HIM IN A SPIRITUAL WAY THAT I KNOW AND CAN FEEL HIS EVERY MOMENT. She also noticed that it was me because Aaron could not see in my glasses.”

Being a twin is more than just being someone’s lookalike: It's a distinctive relationship that goes beyond most normal sibling bonding.

“It is more like knowing someone so well you can read them like an open book,” Jordan says. “They are your best friend, ‘womb mate,’ and overall your brother."

This bond can transcend even physical boundaries, Hannah explains. “When we were younger, we would be in separate rooms. One of us would get hurt and the other would say ‘ouch’ and hold her head in the exact spot the other twin was hit.”

Photos by Jacob Armstrong

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Jordan and Aaron also explain that their bond goes beyond the physical — it is spiritual and transcendent.

“It’s like a continual understanding of my counterpart,” Aaron says. “I am linked with him in a spiritual way that I know and can feel his every moment.”

Both sets of twins have an inextricable bond that will last a lifetime.

“The best part is having someone who is exactly your age who knows you

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IT IS MORE LIKE KNOWING SOMEONE SO WELL YOU CAN READ THEM LIKE AN OPEN BOOK.

like the back of his hand and can almost always be dependable,” Jordan says.

The twins hope this irreplaceable bond can outweigh the calamity of mistaken identities.

Hannah recalls a time when her boyfriend, twin of her sister’s boyfriend, made a colossal mistake.

One of the funniest, most awkward experiences she has had with her sister is “when my boyfriend said how cute I was in a picture, and it was my twin,” Hannah says.

with twins

CHARITY LATCHMAN, SENIOR ENGLISH MAJOR

KARA SINGLETON, SENIOR COMMUNICATIONS STUDIES MAJOR

BY KIRA KRAMER

DID YOU DO ANY DEVIOUS CHILDHOOD TWIN PRANKS? Singleton: When I was about six we were at McDonalds with my aunt and my cousin. We went into the bathroom and switched our clothes. My aunt didn’t know for about two days that we had changed clothing.

Latchman: My sister and I switched classes. She went to my math class, and I went to her art class. No one could tell the difference.

HAVE YOU AND YOUR TWIN EVER LIKED THE SAME PERSON? Singleton: I think it has happened a couple of times. One time she’ll win and then one time I’ll win, so it’s kind of evened out a little bit.

Latchman: His name is Charlie. Neither of us dated him, obviously, but we liked him a lot.

DO YOU AND YOUR TWIN EVER SHARE THE SAME FEELINGS OR DREAMS? LIKE A BOND BEYOND NORMAL RELATIONSHIPS? Singleton: My sister fainted one time and I almost fainted the exact same time, and we were about two hours away from each other.

Latchman: My twin sister and I have a lot of differences, but we often feel things the same way and think of the same type of things without realizing it or discussing it beforehand.

ARE YOU OFTEN MISTAKEN FOR YOUR TWIN? Singleton: I get random hugs from people. Random people coming up, “Oh my gosh I know you.”

Latchman: “It’s my twin you are thinking of, actually.”

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ATTY C

COMMUNITY

CLASSROOM

SURVIVAL 101

BY BRIANNA NELSON

Professors help guide a student to success in courses, helping pave a path for future achievements. Keeping professors happy may seem like a huge task, but in reality it boils down to a few simple rules to follow.

IT IS THE WORLD YOU GET TO STUDY, EXPERIENCE AND KNOW BETTER WITH THOSE WHO HAVE GONE BEFORE YOU.

BY KIRA KRAMER

Skittering across campus on furry paws, eyes peeking through bushes and stealing pieces of dropped chicken from the Alumni Dining Commons patio, cats seem to be everywhere on the California Baptist University campus.

Many campus students, faculty and staff continually show love to the cats, making the felines stick around for more. Some students have been known to raise funds to help feed the stray cats.

“When I see a cat on campus, my first instinct is to go play with it or go pet it,” says Cassandra Ramey, senior political science major. “I also occasionally give them lunch meat or milk if I have some to spare.”

Since pets are not allowed in campus housing, many miss having furry animals in their lives.

“Dogs are loyal and super-fun and will always love you and be by your side and that’s a great feeling,” says Danae Lane, senior communication disorder major.

“But when cats choose to love you and curl up in your lap, it’s a whole different feeling because it’s rare. It’s like being accepted into the cool kids’ group.”

Two years ago, Lane adopted one of the stray kittens on campus. Although she likes cats, she does not think she could handle having more than two or three.

“Too many cats would be a whole lot of attitude to handle,” Lane says.

Most animals enjoy being loved, and stray cats on campus are usually no exception.

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Photo by Kira Kramer

–DR. JEFF MOONEY ASSISTANT PROFESSOR OF OLD TESTAMENT

1

Stay focused in class. Professors can tell when you are zoning or texting in class.

2

Be courteous. You may not be completely enthralled by the subject but chances are your professor is, and you should never belittle someone’s passion.

3

Professors are people, too.

4

College is a privilege, not a right. Value every moment, in and out of class, because not everyone has the privilege you do.

5

Be respectful. Professors have worked hard to get where they are and deserve respect at all times.

from the mouths of the professors...

“Don’t put things off or make excuses.

Just get it done, because any excuse you have regarding why it is not done pales in comparison to a professor’s schedule.”

John Pate Assistant Professor of Communication Arts

“Phones and computers should not be used in my class. I tell students at the beginning of class, then remind them a couple of weeks in.

I can only assume that when they are on their computer or phone after that, that they do not care about the class, their grade or me.”

Dr. Keanon Alderson Associate Professor of Business

BURIED IN BOOKS Dr. Mooney teaching a great variety of classes on top of being a pastor of a church in NorCo.

“Engage with the instructor and fellow students at appropriate times. Stop by and visit your professor at least once during the semester. Don’t ask for a recommendation letter if you haven’t put forth the time to get to know your professor. Dress professionally during presentations.”

Dr. Daniel Prather Professor of Aviation Science

Photo by Jessica Bills

“Since all professors have, by definition, dedicated a large portion of their lives to the subject they are teaching, keep your personal disdain for the subject to yourself. Almost all professors are arrogant to some extent. A job requiring other people to listen to them speak doesn’t help this trait. Treat them as you would a spoiled child, with loads of honorifics and space.

Then pray for them.”

Mike Marse Assistant Professor of Communication Arts

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F

emale college students think of the person who is always there to BROS FOR LIFE laugh with, cry with, eat with, Bros Logan Cross and Luke Hendertravel with and have deep son (top) jam to their own beat. conversations with. The person who comes to mind may be fondly called a “BFF” or “bestie."

Male college students think of the person who is always there to laugh with, watch movies with, play sports with and go on adventures with. The person that may come to mind is a best friend, also playfully refered to as a “bro,” “wingman” or “homie.”

A friendship that exists between two women tends to have a special, caring and sweet bond.

Lauren Hogan, junior psychology major, met her best friend, Linda Jacoban, junior music education major, her freshman year of high school in a small, advanced women’s choir. Their relationship took time to blossom into

BY HOLLY POPE & the bond they now have as third-year SHANTAL HABOUD roommates at California Baptist University.

“Linda and I are unique BESTIES FOR LIFE from one another despite Lauren Hogan and what other individuals may Linda Jacobson say,” Hogan says. “Linda has a spend quality time as”besties.” phobia of heights – I love them.

Linda does not consider herself athletic – I have played sports since I could walk. Although, despite the few differences we have, we are similar to one another in our interests, morals and talents.”

For men, “bros” may be an appropriate word to describe someone they can hang out with and always seem to have a good time. Luke Henderson, sophomore pre-nursing major,

BROS

BESTIES

30 | PURSUIT

and Logan Cross, junior nursing major, live the bro life.

“Best friends are there to listen, encourage each other and enjoy life with,” Cross says.

Shared interests provide common ground that develops uniqueness within each relationship.

This is displayed through both the common and unique ways Hogan and Jacoban choose to spend their time together.

“We do what most best friends do: shop, hang out, go to the beach,” Jacoban says. “But we also write songs, make low-budget movies and go on crazy adventures.”

Cross and Henderson spend time together by eating meals, playing racquetball, praying and climbing trees.

The reality is that there seems to be a significant difference between the way “besties” and “bros” choose to spend their time together. However, both of these relationships are held for a common purpose.

Henderson explains the importance of his friendship with Cross as something that gives him stability and a reliable source for conversation. Hogan agrees on the role of a best friend.

Of the role Hogan says,“To hold one accountable, challenge one another and encourage each other through all aspects of life.”

Whether spending time with a “bro” or a “bestie,” best friends can be a source of adventure, laughter, tears and encouragement. Inevitably, everyone falls at some point.

A good friend is there to lift him or her up.

Photos by Kira Kramer

HOW TO RUIN A DATE

BY STEPHANIE BLACK & HOLLY POPE

There are those people in your life – friends, family, neighbors – telling you this and that: eat this, do not do that, read this, do not wear that. Sometimes, they even try to stick their noses into your dating life. The dilemma is that everyone has his or her own opinion on the matter, but the opinions usually do not coincide. Who’s advice do you follow? Well we have got the scoop for you.

Be sure to discuss your wedding and how many children you plan to have.

Such disclosures give your date confidence in your commitment. This works best if it is a first date — that way you can really bond with the other person.

When prepping for your date, consume onion and garlic products to ensure that your breath smells like death. The scent is sure to repel your date so conversation will be minimal.

Do not worry about looking nice. Just wear your favorite pajamas or sweats.

Remember, it is the inside that counts the most anyway. Especially if your date plans on taking you to a five-star restaurant, sweatpants are classy.

Sergio Rodriguez & Naomi Van Setten

Good places to go on first dates: McDonald’s drive-thru, tattoo parlors and walks through some of the rundown parts of town. Being robbed really makes for great memories.

Most importantly, gentlemen, be sure to have your date help pay for the outing. If she is not financially ready for this commitment, this is a good test.

Who cares about chivalry?

Photos by Megan Paulos

Now, if these tips actually work and you end up having a great date, then kudos to you because nothing written here should be taken seriously.

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Magic

MAKE

D

BY SHANTAL HABOUD

isneyland. The park is known as the “Happiest Place on Earth.” It’s a place where so many people love to go to experience a fun-filled time by hopping on thrill-rides, watching jaw-dropping performances and greeting your favorite characters.

As a child or teen, some people dreamed of contributing to the Disney experience. Many have hoped to see themselves at Disneyland and Disney’s California Adventures as a performer.

Favorites include princesses greeting visitors, Goofy entertaining children, Darth Vader waving his lightsaber at Tomorrowland, a dancer waving and smiling in a parade, or 32 | PURSUIT

HAPPEN

Aladdin in the “Disney’s Aladdin — A Musical Spectacular.”

These are just a few of the many cast-member positions for which one can audition. People can also audition to work for Disney as singers, actors, dancers, musicians, Disney character performers and stunt performers.

When Kelsey C. Knight, senior theater major, decided to audition for Disneyland, her desire was to be a character performer for the park.

“It didn’t matter to me what character I got,” Knight says. “I wanted to be in the entertainment side of Disney.”

To audition as a character performer, one must impersonate a character of the Disney family. Disney expects Photos by Fletcher Perkins

its performers to communicate primarily with gestures and movements to become the character.

“The first round of auditions is based on how well you interpret a character on the spot,” Knight says. “They lined us up in two rows, and two people at a time would walk across the room acting like a certain character.

“If they like the performance you gave at your audition, you go to another room where you fill out paperwork and they measure your height and whatnot.”

Disney does have a height requirement for its characters as certain ones have pre-made costumes that Disney does not alter.

Although Knight discovered she did not meet the height requirement of any character during the audition, she did audition as a character host.

She got the character-host job and became a cast member at Disneyland. Knight says the experience of working at the Magical Kingdom brought a lot of memories and great benefits.

“It was sad to find out the little secrets they have, but the cool part was that the ‘magic’ of Disneyland got to come a lot from the workers. So if I was adding to the guest’s experience, then that was what was truly rewarding,” Knight says.

As a cast member, Knight says she also received free admission for her friends when they came to the park with her.

“I loved bringing people in the park, especially for their first time,” she says. “The benefits of working for Disney are the discounts, free tickets and great friends you meet. It looks really good on a resume, and you learn good communication skills.”

It is a dream to make other's dreams become a reality.

TANGLED LOVE Disneyland performers partake in the parade at the park as Flynn & Rapunzel.

ND A L Y E N S I D

DREAM JOB

BY SARAH JANE O'KEEFE

Nathan Lawrence, California Baptist University graduate, completed his mechanical engineering degree in May 2012 and joined the wonderful world of Disney.

Shortly after graduation, he applied for a position to work in attractions at the Disneyland Resort located in Anaheim, Calif.

“I had always loved Disneyland, so I applied,” Lawrence says. “I got emailed for an interview and the rest is history.”

Lawrence began working in Tomorrowland in October 2012 as an attractions host for “Autopia” and “Star Tours — The Adventures Continue.”

“If you want to see what I do exactly, just visit an attraction and look for people wearing that costume,” Lawrence says. “That’s me. My job is to make sure you’re having fun, and I’m typically having fun in the process of doing that.”

The occasional event shifts has him organizing people for park events.

Lawrence says he hopes to continue his career with Disney to embrace the magic associated with the “Happiest Place on Earth.”

“I do hope to continue working at Disneyland, hopefully moving up, but definitely having fun the entire time,” Lawrence says. “My favorite part that this job has is working with kids. They do the cutest things and never fail to make me laugh.”

This CBU grad went from loving the Disney dream to living the Disney dream.

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34 | PURSUIT

Illustration by Sam Scissons

CHILDHOOD

MEMORIES

BY MONICA SOLANO & KIRA KRAMER

Many students come to college expecting it to be a certain way. They expect to make friends that will last the rest of their lives. They know all-nighters will be pulled at least a few times a semester. They might even expect to find a love interest.

Some of these expectations come from watching childhood movies and TV series.

People may feel like they can relate to famous characters that have dealt with what they are currently facing.

This past summer, “Monsters University” premiered, a prequel to Disney Pixar’s animated film “Monsters Inc.” “A large number of college students went to see this movie simply for the nostalgia from when they were kids,” says Cassandra Ramey, senior political science major.

“Monsters Inc.” premiered 12 years ago when many college students were only children in elementary and middle school. Since then, other movies have made sequels to favorite childhood films, such as the “Toy Story” and the “High School Musical” series that have been watched and enjoyed by many. Most of these films have been cherished by children who are now young adults in college.

“The year ‘Toy Story 3’ came out was the year I

graduated (from high school), so I could really relate to Andy going to college,” says Jennifer Smith, senior psychology major. “I felt very nostalgic on my childhood … except that I mostly played with Barbies.”

Ramey says it was interesting to see how her love of the original “Monsters Inc.” not only played into her love for the prequel but in how she could relate to a childhood character.

“Every person could relate to Mike’s struggle to find what he was meant to do and where he fits in,” Ramey says.

Although the love of the characters is there, the expectancy of college might have been skewed in the movie realm.

Amey Fenwick, senior early childhood studies major, says she grew up watching “Boy Meets World.” Although she says she learned many life lessons from the show, she admits that its perception of college is not entirely accurate.

“The characters in ‘Boy Meets World’ went to college, and I had a completely unrealistic view of what college was like,” Fenwick says. “I remember actually getting to college and thinking, ‘This is not like “Boy Meets World.”’ But the show has always had a huge impact on me and my life.”

Although many relate to their favorite childhood characters, it seems not everyone’s lives are meant to be like those in the movies.

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The cast: (left to right) Max Wieczorck, Michelle Vasile, Arron Aguayo, Teresa Lefferty and LeAnn De Lano

: Y R A N I D L R A C O I S A EXTR TEMPORARY MU

N O C W E N A

BY MONICA SOLANO

Waking up with an idea after a dream was all it took for the inspiration of “Extraordinary: A New Contemporary Musical” to take center stage and begin its musical journey.

“Someone once told me we are all quite extraordinary. … Well, aren’t we?” quotes John Wells III, senior theater major with a concentration in performance, from his accomplished work, “Extraordinary.”

The story follows a young foster boy, Jeremiah, in search of fame and finding contentment within himself and the family and friends he loves. But as his fame begins to grow, will it help those he loves or accidentally push away the people most important in his life?

“I don’t really remember what caused me to begin writing,” Wells says. “I just remember I woke from a dream early in the morning and felt the need to write. I wrote the first scene of the play — much like the main character in the play.”

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Wells began writing the script for his play in 2005, and worked eight years on it. It finally premiered at The Wallace Book of Life Theater, Aug. 9–11.

Since he was a young boy, Wells has grown up with a love for art. As he grew, his love and talent deepened, inspiring him to follow his dream of a calling to the theater.

“As a kid, all I ever wanted was to be famous,” Wells says.

“Of course, as I grew older, it became more about the love of the art than it was for the fame.”

SOMEONE ONCE TOLD ME WE ARE ALL QUITE EXTRAORDINARY. WELL, AREN’T WE? He dedicated time and effort as director of the “Extraordinary” production. Nicholas J. White composed music for the play inspired

by Christian artist Jonathan Thulin.

Sarah Rosen, junior theater major with a concentration in technical and performance, choreographed the production, and Kelsie Piini, senior theater major, was co-director.

Most of the play’s characters grew up in a group home as the production’s main focus is foster youth awareness.

Wells found it important for people to become more aware of group-home living conditions and dedicated time to the empowerment of foster youth.

“I want them to be reminded of two things,” Wells says. “They are not the product of their situation and you don’t have to try to be extraordinary — you already are.”

Wells says people feel determined to find something extraordinary in this world. For him, it was seeing his dream come true through hard work, dedication and caring for those he loves. For others, it may be the chance to change and possibly become better than they are now.

Wells left many leaving the theater with this message: Be true to yourself.

It does not matter where you came from and you don’t have to be rich and famous to be extraordinary, because you already are in your own way.

Photo by Kelsie Piini

ENTERTAINMENT’S

FUTURE

BY ANDREW CASTELLANO

G

et off that game!” A phrase heard all too often by gamers from their parents and friends alike. However, as the gaming industry becomes more structured, gaming is becoming a real profession for some.

Explaining gaming to someone who is completely unfamiliar with it is an intricate and often difficult task.

Trying to understand how virtual competition drives creativity, innovation and dedication is laughable to those uninformed.

“As weird as it is to say, it is a lot like professional sports; not in terms of athleticism but in terms of entertainment,” Brandon Scorza, junior engineering major, says of gaming. “If people like it and want to watch it, then players should be paid for it.”

Games popular enough to steadily pull more than 100,000 unique viewers on the Internet during broadcast matches. “League of Legends” is the leading game in terms of viewership.

“It is very difficult to explain to people that playing games can be a job,” says Trevor Salce, a professional

“League of Legends” player. “You don’t even have to be on the top-tier level of gaming to make a living off of games.”

Some players do not get as competitive as others and just play for fun.

However, this doesn’t mean they are unable to make a living.

“If you are a likable and entertaining person, you can stream your games live for anyone to watch and make money off of advertisement revenue,” Salce continues.

Dedicated fans constantly provide viewership numbers that grab the attention of major league sponsors.

Qualcomm and Red Bull are among the leading sponsors of gaming teams. These sponsorships provide teams with the money they need to remain competitive.

Teams are able to live in gaming houses, earn a salary and follow a strict practice regimen guided by a coach.

Gaming houses are a critical part of the infrastructure that the industry must utilize in order to grow and become more professional.

Team Curse is one of many “League of Legends” teams to have a house dedicated to its players. During his stay at the Curse house, Salce says

he was able to experience what it is like to truly dedicate oneself to a game and try to be the best he or she can be.

“When it came time to practice, we got really stressed out and uptight,” Salce says. “There is a lot of pressure on you to perform when an entire organization and sponsors are counting on you to make them look good.”

It seems the weight placed on a player’s shoulders when it comes time to perform is overwhelming. Hundreds of thousands of people are watching and cheering with anticipation as two teams enter a match.

Recently, the U.S. government recognized “League of Legends” as a sport on par with the NBA, NFL and NHL. They are officially allowing foreign players to receive visas to play and participate in competitions in the United States because they are considered professional athletes.

“The future of gaming is bright and only getting brighter the more it gets exposed to the public,” Salce explains.

Gaming communities are growing.

The industry is becoming more professional and structured. It is what’s to come in the entertainment world.

PURSUIT | 37

BY ANDREW CASTELLANO

To some, Fantasy Football is everything; to others, it is a mystery. Fans begin planning their strategies and teams months before the National Football League’s preseason even gets on television.

Fantasy Football allows fans to act as owners of their own team of NFL players for the season. Players receive fantasy points for their performance on the field. This creates excitement and sometimes heartache for the fans because they often feel the need to root for players they would otherwise dislike.

Picking a player who will net a lot of points consistently is the most common strategy. In order to create the strongest team, it is essential to draft the best players.

Focus on offensive skill positions first when planning and executing your draft.

Do not rush to get a quarterback.

38 | PURSUIT

20

“I felt like if I picked a great quarterback I would gain a lot of points for the week,” says Caleb Vera, senior communication studies major.

The fan who picks first in the first round of the draft will pick last in the second round. Respectively, the previous round’s fan who picked last will choose first. This way, each participant has a fair chance at securing valuable players.

The draft requires “owners” to select more players than are eligible to play each week. This forces them to make strategic decisions in order to get the best performance out of their team.

Fantasy Football owners make critical decisions regarding who he or she will be playing. If injuries arise,

Always carry five running backs on your roster. You never know when one may get injured.

30

Sleepers are players that are not highly valued as productive players that emerge during the season.

owners can reconsider who to play for that week.

Owners make all the decisions regarding the team.

They may finalize their rosters by trading with other owners in their league. Making desirable trades is a strategic and interactive component that Fantasy Football provides.

“I sometimes felt partial to the teams that I liked and would try and pick players from these teams because I hoped they would win and do well that week anyway,” Vera says.

Others allow little to no emotional drafting to take place when their desire to win is the driving factor.

“I pick players who I think will do the best,” says Steven Hainzer, senior civil engineering major. “I’m a 49ers fan and I drafted Peyton Manning.”

Running backs and wide receivers have the potential to carry the highest points from week-to-week.

Photo by Emily Gallina

Selecting your team and then relaxing all season is not the best way to be successful, though.

“I would check up on injury reports for my team and watch my player’s games,” Hainzer says.

Keeping an eye on your imaginary football team’s wellbeing is not strange to dedicated fans — it is common. Teams are a direct reflection of their owner’s personality and the strategy he or she wishes to use during the season.

Once the post-season arrives, these teams play a single elimination bracket until only one team remains — the team that is crowned Fantasy Football Champion. Its owner is granted bragging rights until the next season begins.

40 Pay attention to your defense. Some defenses have high point value in various leagues.

Read weekly injury reports to stay up-to-date on your players status.

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P

rincess

KATIE PAVAO

Princess by day, student by night

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PRINCESS TIME Staying in character as Rapunzel, Pavao talks to Emma Romo at an outdoor event.

BY RENEE FLANNERY

princess sat at a small table on the outskirts of a maze of patio furniture.

She sat with a professional yet joyful demeanor and a wide smile behind her laptop. Her short, dark hair framed her dainty features.

Katie M. Pavao, senior theater major, is the princess Disney has yet to officially recognize.

Pavao runs her own business, Princess Katie’s Fairytale Birthdays. She visits children on their birthdays, dressed as their favorite Disney princess.

“They can’t stop smiling, they flock around you,” Pavao says. “They might get distracted doing something else but then they come right back.”

Her journey to royalty began in high school when she briefly worked for another small, princessparty business. Unfortunately, the venture came to an end but she still held onto the idea. Pavao decided she would be able to start her own characterentertainment business at some point in the future.

Princess Katie’s Fairytale Birthdays was officially set in motion in 2012 on July 4. While in character, Pavao does face-painting, makes balloon animals, plays games and dances with the children she entertains. Sometimes there is singing, as it is a requirement of most Disney characters.

“How to be a Princess” lessons are also involved. Young girls are taught how to cross their legs, walk, talk and address people as princesses.

“I want to incorporate my faith into this business by showing the kids how to be well-mannered and respectful, like the role models we dress as at the parties,” Pavao says.

For those children who prefer the more “heroic” side of life, Pavao’s brother makes a great Spiderman, Superman or Batman, and sometimes attends parties alongside his older sister.

“The action heroes will do crimefighting, tell actionhero stories and they’ll teach you how to be a superhero,” Pavao says.

Eric Waisanen, 19, Pavao’s brother, has his own appreciation for superheros and when

offered the chance to become one, he did not pass on the opportunity. Like any caring brother, he was uncertain at first of his sister’s business plans but has since been able to see them come to fruition.

“It’s gone much smoother than I expected,” he says.

“She’s professional and organized.”

Waisanen says he enjoys being a part of the business and making memories with children on their special day.

“For me, the best thing about the parties is the amazement in the children’s eyes when they see Superman at their birthday party,” Waisanen says.

When parents contact Pavao to book a princess for their party, they have a multitude of choices.

Pavao, along with her friends that sometimes accompany her, can dress as Aurora, Ariel, Belle, Tiana, Merida, Cinderella and Snow White. Rapunzel’s dress is latest in Pavao’s well-stocked princess closet.

Pavao’s long-term dream has been to become an actress and hopes to continue following that path. Wherever her dreams and family take her in life, she plans on taking her business with her, making it easy for children everywhere to have a princess party.

THEY CAN’T STOP SMILING; THEY FLOCK AROUND YOU.

Left Photo Illustration by Megan Paulos | Top Photo By Kira Kramer

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JOB REQUIREMENTS: PRAY AND SERVE WHAT IT IS LIKE TO BE AN INTERN AT FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH NORCO

BY JOSEPH CHAN

I

nternships are usually a part of college. They boost resumes and help students get experience.

Duties can range from filing papers, fetching coffee and running errands. For the interns of First Baptist Church in Norco praying is just another part of the job description.

I WOULD RECOMMEND THIS JOB TO OTHERS BECAUSE OF THE GROWTH YOU WILL MAKE IN THE GOSPEL.

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Matthew Messner, junior Christian studies major, is involved in the two-year long internship.

He says the daily routine varies depending on the ministry head in the given semester, but typically consists of reading assignments, prayer, fellowship and small-group discussions. Such tasks are done through a weekly smallgroup meeting in addition to church meetings on Sundays.

“My specific role at FBCN is not so specific,” he says. “I take part in several different areas of ministry each semester and am under different ministry heads each semester.”

Although there is an online application process to be admitted, Messner says the experience of getting involved in the community makes applying worthwhile. Simply applying allows one to get his or her foot in the

door for a specific position, regardless if it is an internship or a job position.

Messner says one of the benefits of working at FBCN is gaining extensive knowledge in ecclesiology, the theological study of the Christian church and biblical theology, as well as applying the utmost devotion to the Bible in everything they do.

Messner admits the time commitment and extensive work he does on top of school work can be tough, but still does not overshadow the experiences with which he is constantly rewarded.

“I would recommend this job to others because of the growth you will make in the gospel,” he says. “My favorite moment so far has been the Rimestad send-off, which was a service we did centered around the Rimestad family being sent off as missionaries.

“It was an opportunity for us to, in a sense, go with them in support and prayer. Plus, it was an incredible time of unity in the church and love shown toward those going.”

He notes the service was one that everyone should experience at some point in his or her life beacause it allows people to grasp a better foundational idea of the gospel and what it means.

R E C N A L B O J l o co WITH

DOING WORK As an intern, Messner also has to help lead a men's accountability groups called DNA.

For Messner, a Sunday at FBCN consists of arriving at 8 a.m., and praying with pastors and other interns, followed

by Sunday school class during the first service at 8:30 a.m.

“I then help out any staff (member) who needs help preparing for the next service,” he says. “At the second service, which is at 10:15 a.m., I sit in and watch the service. After the services are over, I check to see what needs to be done, and if nothing is needed, I am free to leave.”

While there are several students who take advantage of actively serving at the Norco church, the leadership staff also brings a mixed and enlightening atmosphere to the church.

“We are an active, gospel-based church that has a long list of opportunities for people to get involved in with their hearts, heads and hands—both locally and globally,” says Dave Creswell, a leadership staff member serving as an elder. “I am blessed by the teaching, worship and fellowship at FBCN.” Although the application may be tough, the hours demanding and the work challenging, students such as Messner find the internship beneficial in growing their love for God and people.

Photos by Kira Kramer

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TIM KOTHLOW

BY RENEE FLANNERY

E

ver see a movie where a celebrity walks into an extravagant spa or resort and is greeted by friendly employees at every corner? Tim J. Kothlow is one of those employees.

For the past two years, Kothlow, junior graphic design major, has been working for a high-profile resort in Laguna Beach. His job is to serve, greet and be friendly to some of the most well-known celebrities.

Kothlow says the job came unexpectedly and without much trouble.

“I just applied on a whim thinking nothing of it.

It’s funny because I got a job at a five-star resort but not Disneyland,” he says.

His typical day consists of an eight hour shift, where he walks around the resort’s luxurious amenities and the stretch of beach in front of the property, setting up lounge chairs, umbrellas and serving food to guests.

For every shift, Kothlow studies a three-ring binder filled with the names and faces of incoming guests so he can make them feel welcomed once they arrive at the resort.

Besides getting to meet celebrities, Kothlow says some of his favorite perks of the job are working with his best friends and being able to network.

“Since I get to know guests well, they get to know me and offer me internships … all over the country,” he says. “One guest even offered to take me to Africa with her and her family so I can take pictures and video.”

The only downside to the job: Kothlow’s sworn secrecy. Though he has met numerous famous people, sharing their names or whereabouts would cost him his spot at the Laguna resort.

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BY HOLLY POPE

New freshmen cautiously navigate the unfamiliar terrain on their first day of high school.

At a time when most students are concerned with issues such as fitting in, making friends and how to avoid getting shoved in lockers, Mikhalis Hike, senior mechanical engineering major, had his attention focused elsewhere.

Preparing for high school, Hike took college placement tests and entered Mt. San Jacinto College at 14 years old. While enrolled in both high school and community

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college, Hike graduated high school at 16 and received his associate degree in Engineering: Drafting Technology when he was 17.

In the midst of balancing high school and college courses, Hike learned of his friend Jimmy Davidson’s plans to open a parkour/freerunning gym in Murrieta, Calif. After discussing the vision, Hike and Davidson decided a partnership would be beneficial in opening the gym.

What began as a simple desire for a place to train and further their freerunning abilities grew into Freedom in Motion, the gym they have been developing.

This year, they hope to be able to welcome in the New Year with preparations for an official 2014 opening date.

They spent several months drafting a business plan, and have utilized the help of knowledgeable mentors in applying with the state of California to attain recognition as a Limited Liability Company. “The main reason behind Jimmy and me wanting to open the gym is really rather

simple: We wanted a gym to train in,” he says.

With their plans in motion, Hike sought a college close to home with a Christian mission statement and an ABET accredited engineering program.

Two weeks after turning 18, he headed toward the palm trees and smiling leaders that welcome new students to the campus at California Baptist University.

Though he continues to pursue his dreams for Freedom in Motion, the transition into college life was smooth.

In his first semester, he started an unofficial club for rugby that has continued into this year.

Hoping to inspire the passion for CBU community in other students, Hike is a FOCUS leader, continues his involvement in male chorale and has recently earned a spot in the CBU Crazy 8.

“I would love to help others have the same experience I had, feel welcomed to the school and get involved in community life at CBU,” he says.

Hike prioritizes his life with his current and future goals in mind. He considers the three most important aspects of his life to be God, family and friends.

“I would like to have been a loving and encouraging friend to all that I meet,” he says. “I would like to have fulfilled God’s will for my life and to have glorified him in all things.”

I WOULD LIKE TO HAVE BEEN A LOVING AND ENCOURAGING FRIEND TO ALL THAT I MEET.

CRAZY FOR SCHOOL As a part of the Crazy 8, Hike is required to wear his Crazy 8 scarf to every sporting event.

READY, SET, HIKE Rugby, a rough sport similar to football, but with no protective pads is led

by Hike on campus.

PURSUIT | 45

TRAVEL

BUDGET SMART TRAVELS

BY SARAH JANE O’KEEFE

Traveling does not have to include hefty pieces of luggage, pricey plane fare or multiple stops at the gas station.

Day trips are simple reminders of what traveling should be about­—the awesome experience.

Whether a relaxing break from the stress of school, a good dose of sunshine or an artistically stimulating adventure is needed, here are simple trips that will not take more than a tank of gas and a bit of pocket money.

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SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO

ESCAPING THE EVERYDAY — SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO

Get away from the hectic hustle of the everyday by taking a train ride to quaint San Juan Capistrano. For just $25 you can skip traffic and enjoy a day of relaxing exploration. Wander the mission, enjoy steak tacos at Mission Grill, meander the Old Barn Antique Mall and have coffee at perfectly tucked away Hidden House Coffee.

The best part is that all of these idyllic locations are within just three blocks of one another.

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5

LOS ANGELES

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EMBRACING ARTISTRY — L.A.

Coffee connoisseurs beware — Handsome Coffee Roasters may become your new favorite spot. Start your day with an expertly roasted espresso and spend quality time with a friend or book in the industrial lounge area. Wander the arts district in search of unique street art and hipster portrait spots. Experience what Diners, Drivein’s and Dives, Elle magazine and the Los Angels Times are raving about by having lunch at the Nickel Diner.

Great prices and unique food will give you the energy needed to end your day with the Museum of Modern Art.

1. The mission, with its stunning architecture and beautiful gardens, is a historic landmark.

2. An image of the Virgin Mary is found outside the chapel.

3. Tucked away under shade trees, Hidden House Coffee is full of local charm.

4. Fresh grilled tacos and an ice-cold soda make for a lovely lunch at Mission Grill.

5. Two, three-ounce servings of fresh espresso are cupped and ready at Handsome Coffee Roasters.

6. A three-dimentional mural dot ­—L.A.'s downtown area.

7. As a L.A. hotspot for locals, be prepared to wait as the diner is oftentimes busiest for weekend breakfasts.

8. The Los Angeles Central Library is located on 5th Street.

9. Mission Bay entertains a wide variety of water-loving adventure seekers.

10. Adventure Water Sports launches kayaks from thise dock.

11) Ride the sternwheeler for a new view of the bay.

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Photos by Sarah Jane O'Keefe

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TRAVEL

8

SAN DIEGO EXPLORING THE OUTDOORS — SAN DIEGO 9

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The daily deal website, Groupon, is a great place to start your outdoor adventure day. Snag a deal on kayaking and head to the sunny shores of San Diego. Adventure Water Sports offers kayaking and paddle boarding on beautiful Mission Bay. After exploring with seals and pelicans, picnic in the shade of palm trees at the park.

If water adventure was not enough to tire you, drive to Mission Trails Regional Park for a moderate hike with stunning scenery year-round. For a less strenuous end to the day, head to Coronado Island for less crowded beaches, fun shops and great food.

No matter what kind of day you are looking to have, Southern California has something to suit your mood. Fill up the gas tank and spend a day being adventurous, simply for the pure enjoyment of traveling.

Photos by Sarah Jane O'Keefe

TRAVELING ACT: LIFE WITH ELIZABETH PALESTINE The stage where Elizabeth Malone performed.

BY BRADLEE LOCKE

A

smile streaked across Elizabeth Malone’s face. The assistant professor of theatre at California Baptist University looked away and laughed. Her eyes glimmered as a flashback from her summer in Bethlehem played out before her.

In 2008, Malone saw a news update on Israel and Gaza that caused her to look further into the situation in the Middle East. While researching, she also looked into what theater was like in the region. That was when God laid the country and people of Palestine on her heart.

Malone recalls trying to go to Palestine every year after. She finally succeeded in the summer of 2012.

While there she attended a conference where she learned of the Holy Land Trust, an organization that seeks to affect change in the West Bank through the power of theater and the arts.

When she heard they were putting on a music festival, she knew she had a reason to return.

“I felt like this trip was still the beginning of my journey,” she says.

“I wasn’t going to go in and change anything. I didn’t want to pretend I even had that power. I wanted to go learn and be helpful.”

Malone helped organize the festival where clowns, stilt-walkers and other carnival-like attractions were

I FELT LIKE THIS TRIP WAS STILL THE BEGINNING OF MY JOURNEY. present. She also had the opportunity to choreograph a dance for the parade portion of the festival along with creating and directing a 45-minute show starring local teenagers.

Her knack for drama and passion to serve led her to a country where her talents and abilities were both appreciated and utilized. As a theater artist, Malone says she believes in the “inherent power” of theater to change communities and give “voices to the seemingly voiceless.”

“You go into Palestine as a theater artist and they are so happy to receive you. They believe that you have a gift and a power and that theater and the arts really matter for their kids and for their community,” she says.

Malone encourages students to put aside media reports and see Palestinians as individuals with unique stories.

With constant reports of danger and Christians fleeing, Malone says many outsiders develop false perceptions of the people and country. Palestinian Christians feel this disconnect.

“They feel like people think they are terrorists, when I have not met one person with that intention,” she says.

Top Photo by Salam Ibrahim | Bottom Photo by Jacob Armstrong

“It’s very important to support the Christians in this area of the world because this is an area where they feel particularly unsupported.”

Malone says she feels the call to support Christians around the world, she just decided to start in Palestine.

“At the end of the day, I can say God put it on my heart because it didn’t make sense,” she says. “It wasn’t something I thought about in the past.”

Her eyes looked away once again. This time they were filled with sorrow—a sorrow that has led her to understanding and sympathy. In her eyes was the ability to empathize with a neglected people group in one of the most forgotten places in the world.

PALESTINE TOP: The stage where Elizabeth Malone performed.

PALESTINE BElOW: Malone teaching her acting class at CBU.

MALONE Malone teaching her acting class at CBU.

PURSUIT | 49

BY SARAH JANE O'KEEFE

Falling into a habit of going to the name brand coffee spot, shopping at a chain store, placing predictable orders at fast-food restaurants and catching overhyped movies at shopping malls is an all-too-common occurrence for California Baptist University students.

The time has come to break out of these tired ways by checking out some local gems that fly under the radar.

WHERE TO CAFFEINATE:

COFFEE, COFFEE, COFFEE Lift Coffee Roasters serves up freshly brewed expresso in style.

Lift Coffee Roasters. Allen Andra and Steffen Sommers, co-owners, take coffee seriously. Their passion for a quality cup of brew inspired them to open their own coffee shop in Riverside. Drawing from favorite coffees and shops the world over, Lift Coffee Roasters strives to be the idyllic coffee house where all that matters is the espresso and company. Industrial chic décor adds a certain air of sophistication, which pairs perfectly with the shop’s passionately crafted drinks. If the carefully chosen roasted and brewed coffee is not enough to draw CBU students in, then the fact that both of the co-owners’ wives graduated from CBU may help.

LOCATED: 3590 CENTRAL AVE., SUITE 101

WHAT TO DO: Get outside. While the pedal boats at Fairmount Park may be a wornout idea, walking the 1.25-mile trail through Riverside’s California Citrus State Park may be a fresh take on fresh air. Turn it into an Instagram battle with friends and see who can find the most creative shot for the most likes. Feeling up for a more rigorous hike, trail run or mountain bike ride? Give Sycamore Canyon a visit. Parking is conveniently located at the main trailhead.

COFFEE TO GO Bagged grounds of your favorite roast are available for purchase.

LOCATED: CALIFORNIA CITRUS STATE PARK, 9400 DUFFERIN AVE.

Shop farmer’s markets. Downtown Riverside holds a farmer’s market every Saturday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., located on 6th Street between Main Street and Fairmount Boulevard.

This weekly street-sale offers mostly organic produce, as well as fresh flowers and sweet treats. The Galleria at Tyler also hosts a weekly farmer’s market that sells produce from local farmers, open Sundays 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

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ORANGES The California Citris State Park is open to visitors year round.

TRAVEL

WHERE TO EAT: Burger Boss. This hamburger joint can grill up madeto-order burgers in the friendliest way. The slogan “fresh, natural goodness” is apparent in the Boss’ use of USDA certified organic ingredients and grass-fed Black Angus domestic chuck. Patrons pick everything for their burger while a wide variety of options allow for the creation of countless unique, and affordable, dream burgers. Vegetarian?

Have no fear; the black bean patty is top-notch. Burger Boss’s fresh french fries are cooked in cholesterol-free canola oil and seasoned with sea salt, making them an ideal burger addition. Care to try something a little different? Their waffle-cut sweet potato fries cannot be beat.

LOCATED: 2585 CANYON SPRINGS PARKWAY.

Baguette Bakery and Café. The search for a sandwich done right is over. While Baguette Bakery and Café’s most popular menu item is the roasted turkey with bacon, passing up on the rotisserie chicken would be a mistake. This flavorful sandwich is a delight. Perfectly seasoned dressing, provolone cheese, tender chicken, crunchy lettuce and fresh tomato on a freshly made loaf of the café’s signature sandwich bread make this lunch an instant favorite. The french fries may not be grand, but the chocolate chip, peanut butter cookies are anything but disappointing. With a meal costing $7, this place suits a college student’s budget.

LOCATED: 767 W. BLAINE ST.

WHERE TO SHOP: Pet Adoption Center. Proceeds from this thrift store go to support Riverside’s Mary S. Roberts Pet Adoption Center, a “no-kill” shelter. Consistently stocked with great deals on furniture and housewares, this is the place to go when decking out campus apartments or looking to add a hipster touch. The majority of the center’s clothes are $4, with exceptions on evening dresses or full sets of clothing.

LOCATED: 6065 MAGNOLIA AVE.

Le Chic Boutique. Thanks to its large inventory of women’s clothing and accessories, Le Chic Boutique is like entering a friend’s walk-in closet. The tiny shop is jam-packed with a wide variety of clothing at reasonable prices. This writer scored a classic, polka dot dress for just $12. Having been in business more than 30 years at various locations in Riverside, Le Chic Boutique is experienced at offering quality seasonal clothing and friendly service.

CUSTOM BURGER Burger Boss patron, Christina Ellis, is served her made-to-order creation.

Go for a drive. Riverside’s convenient location allows for short trips to fun places. These gems that call Riverside home are well worth the time spent hunting them down.

LOCATED: 10181 HOLE AVE.

Photos by Steven Anderson

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TRAVEL

PASSPORT WITH A PURPOSE

BY LAUREN RIOS

For as long as I could remember, the excitement of traveling some place new always brought a smile to my face and joy to my heart.

As I stepped out of Spain’s Madrid-Barajas Airport with a suitcase in hand and my team at my side, I felt a rush of emotions flow through my mind. It was hard to believe that after a full semester of training I was walking along the streets of Spain.

This was the farthest I had ever traveled, my first foreign country visited and the most time away from home.

Culture-shock sank in as we dove right into the Spanish traditions.

Walking the cobblestone streets alongside buildings I had

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only seen on television shows and in movies, I knew I was definitely not in California anymore.

One such cultural difference is that the Spaniards take a “siesta,” also known as a nap, during the middle of the day. Shops close for this three-hour time block for people to go home, eat lunch and nap to stay up later at night.

Watching the sun go down at 10 p.m. was a first. I was even more shocked when dinner was served at this time and the streets came alive with people. The Spaniards associate eating dinner with the dark night sky, so while many Americans were preparing for bed, I was experiencing new cultural norms across the globe.

Jet lag began to creep up on my team after our

13-hour journey from the west to the East Coast and then across the Atlantic Ocean to Europe.

Spain is nine hours ahead of California, which made sleeping difficult. Waking up every few hours exhausted my teammates and me, making the traditional Spanish coffee beverage, “café con leche,” a must for those early mornings.

A cheeseburger, fries and a Coke did the trick for those longing for the familiarities of home.

Listening to conversations of those around me, the Spanish I heard was not the same as I had learned in school.

They were lisping certain letters, which made my mind go into overload as I tried to translate.

When I tried to communicate

with the locals, I realized my Spanish was rusty. I got tongue-tied and forgot the different conjugations. I also saw my teammates struggle as their eyes widened with confusion.

At the end of it all, it didn't matter what language we spoke. We all spoke the same language: our love for God that bonded us and the people of Spain.

Our team came together as one.

We encouraged one another through the challenges of jet lag, homesickness and the language barrier. We reminded one another that we are to live the purpose God had called us to.

As the time came to an end, I knew that through this experience I had been forever changed. The people and the memories made would always be with me.

I felt as though God opened my eyes to a world that I had never seen and made a special place for Spain in my heart.

REPRESENTING CBU Behind Rios is a church that Ferdinand and Isabelle, the past king and queen of Spain, frequented.

AT THE END OF IT ALL, IT DID NOT MATTER WHAT LANGUAGE WE SPOKE. WE ALL SPOKE THE SAME LANGUAGE: OUR LOVE FOR GOD THAT BONDED US AND THE PEOPLE OF SPAIN. Photos courtesy of Lauren Rios

PURSUIT | 53

PILGRIMAGE TO EUROPE

BY HOLLY POPE

T

he towering arches of the Cathedral de Santiago de Compostela stretched high into the bright July sky.

Since medieval times, pilgrims have ended their journey at this site after trekking miles and often weeks along the Camino de Santiago in Spain.

Caleb Meyer, junior mathematics and intercultural studies double major, completed this spiritual journey by joining the multitudes who have gone before him in attending Mass at the supposed site of St. James’s burial.

Meyer journeyed with five pilgrims from Beeson Divinity School after longtime friend and California Baptist University alumnus, Kyle Logan, invited him to accompany them along their spiritual quest.

Before embarking, Meyer hoped that through traveling the “Camino,”

CALEB MEYER

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or “the way,” he would also embark on a journey of spiritual renewal and discovery. Meyer and each member of his group were able to share the gospel with several individuals along the way.

“Age and nationality didn’t matter,” Meyer says. “We were all pilgrims walking through this portion of our lives together. It’s saddening that so many people walk the Camino and never hear the gospel—what the Camino is truly all about.”

Exciting adventures abounded.

One day, a slight mishap forced Meyer and Logan to walk into the night and stop for a brief time to sleep in a small patch of grass on the side of the road. Another thrilling moment came when Meyer was able to play a piano designed by the famous architect Antoni Gaudi in a bishop’s palace.

“I made a woman cry by the sheer beauty of my impromptu piano playing — true story,” Meyer says.

However, the most impactful moment surprised Meyer as it came following a disagreement among his traveling companions. He felt he learned much about a successful Christcentered community as they sought guidance together through discussion, scripture and prayer.

“In dealing with our group’s problem, I learned a tremendous deal about a community centered on

Christ,” Meyer says.

After traveling 500 miles, Meyer stood in the same spot and looked up at the same towers that have marked the completion of a journey for pilgrims throughout the centuries.

Though rich in history, the most impactful aspects of entering the city of Santiago were the miles behind and the accompanying sense of completion. Meyer says he also was uplifted by the joy of the friends he met along the way.

“My friend encountering happiness as we walked into the city and our reunion with our friends summed up my Camino experience,” Meyer says.

“United with a common destination and looking for the answers to our questions, it’s easy to see that the pilgrims on the Camino are searching for something, though they may not know what that is.”

Meyer explains that the burial site of St. James, which is the end destination of the pilgrimage, symbolizes the gospel reaching “the ends of the earth.” The entire journey seems to be for the purpose of reflection and seeking.

“My experience with the Camino has taught me that, like pilgrims, we are all headed the same direction,” Meyer says. “At the end of our journey will we say, ‘I know the answer’ or will we wonder, ‘Why have I even lived at all?’”

THE ENTIRE JOURNEY SEEMS TO BE FOR THE PURPOSE OF REFLECTION AND SEEKING.

Photo by Jacob Armstrong

TRAVEL

SEVEN-PLUS-ONE THINGS TO PACK WHENEVER YOU GO ANYWHERE

BY REBEKAH WAHLBERG

Going on a trip? If you are camping, road-tripping or flying, here is your goto list of seven things to take with you every time.

Toilet paper and moist wipes. Don't laugh. You never know when you will need these, especially if you are going to a third-world country.

Essential electronics. Pack a wall adapter (if you are traveling internationally), an extension cord (outlets can be in odd places) and your phone charger. Taking a camera?

Double check you have the charger.

Something to do. Remember: A book’s battery never dies.

Something to keep you warm. Grab a sweater and remember that Pashmina scarves can double as lap blankets.

Resealable plastic bags. These are handy for dirty or wet clothes you want to keep separate, as well as for organizing various smaller necessities.

Multitool. You know, those handy gadgets with a knife, can opener, scissors, nail clippers and more. If you are flying, pack it in your checked-bag.

Coffee. If you are a coffee drinker, you will save money by bringing your own and ensure your caffeine fix no matter where you are traveling.

Bonus. Before you walk out the door, make sure you have proper identification (i.e., passport or driver’s license) and your itinerary.

Whether you are leaving for the weekend or taking a long vacation, be sure to pack these essentials you may not have considered.

Photo by Steven Anderson

PURSUIT | 55

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