Nubian Message, Aug. 10, 2016 — Symposium Edition: Welcome to the Pack

NORTH CAROLINA STATE UNIVERSITY | RALEIGH, NC | THENUBIANMESSAGE.COM | wednesday, aUGUST 10, 2016

welcome to the pack

wednesday, AUGUST 10, 2016 |

Letter from the editor

THISISSUE 3 SEMESTER EVENT PREVIEW Campus events to look out for.

4 VOTING 101 Hey family, Hey family, I am Stephanie Tate, Editor-in-Chief of the Nubian Message, and I want to formally welcome new students to the Wolfpack! The Nubian Message has served as the sentinel for the African American community at NC State for the last twenty-four years. Although we were originally founded to serve as the voice for the African American community, we are now making more efforts to be inclusive of all walks of life to better represent our diverse campus population.

Whether you’re a new reader of our publication, a potential staff member or both we are excited to have you on campus and as a member of our community. As a symposium alumna, a former symposium counselor and a student just like you, I have a few nuggets of advice for you.

Take advantage of the resources presented to you in symposium. Regardless of the many talents that got you to NC State, you’ll need the help of others to be successful. Start networking now and you’ll be grateful that you did later.

Show up and show out. As a minority student at a predominately-white institution, you’ll have a few classes where you’ll be the only person that looks like you.

Use this to your advantage. Go to class eager to learn, ask questions and make a good impression. You’re changing the narrative simply by being a student at NC State, continue to do so.

Manage your time efficiently. In the words of one of our former writers QuiAnne’ Holmes, “Friends and significant others should not be a three credit hour class.” While you should strive to keep your relationships in tact, make sure you’re making double the effort to keep your grades in tact.

Stay true to who you are. College provides you with more freedom than you may have ever had. Don’t use this as an excuse to act a fool. Keep your values at the forefront of your mind and don’t compromise them.

Get involved in organizations that interest you. Whether its trying something new or sticking to something you’re good at, just get involved. Being involved makes for a more holistic college experience.

I hope you’ll find this issue both useful and intriguing. Make the best of your NC State career and we promise to be here to write about all the great things we’re sure you will do.

Nothing but love, Stephanie Tate

What you need to know about voting.

5 CAMPUS SUPPORT SERVICES Campus offices that promote equity.

6 GUIDE TO GREEK LIFE

Intro to the four Greek councils.

8 TOP 7 RESOURCES Underutilized resources on campus.

9 GUEST COLUMN Advice from a NCSU faculty member.

10 HELPFUL TIPS How to make the most of freshman year.

The Sentinel of the African -American Community at N.C. State Since 1992.

Stephanie Tate

Editor-in-Chief

Anahzsa Jones

Managing editor

Only with the permission of our elders do we proudly produce each edition of the Nubian Message:

PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY BRYAN MURPHY | PHOTO EDITOR

Dr. Yosef ben-Yochannan, Dr. John Henrik Clark, Dr. Leonard Jeffries, The Black Panther Party, Mumia A. Jamal, Geronimo Pratt, Tony Williamson, Dr. Lawrence Clark, Dr. Augustus McIver Witherspoon, Dr. Wandra P. Hill, Mr. Kyran Anderson, Dr. Lathan Turner, Dr. M. Iyailu Moses, Dokta Toni Thorpe and all those who accompany us as we are still on the journey to true consciousness.

news

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 10, 2016 | 3

UPCOMING EVENTS FOR THE FALL SEMESTER AUGUST:

Respect the Pack Tuesday, August 16 7pm-9pm Talley Student Union Lobby What’s on the Table? (every Friday) Friday, August 26 3pm-4:30pm African American Cultural Center Living Room

SEPTEMBER:

AASAC General Body Meeting Tuesday, September 6 5:30pm- until Witherspoon 201 Harambee!!

Thursday, September 8 5:00-7:30pm Talley Student Union- Coastal Ballroom SPECIAL EDITION What’s On The Table: Experiencing King Thursday, September 15 6pm-8pm AACC Gallery KOnversations: Glow Yoga Edition Thursday, September 15 TBA Experiencing King at NC Arts Friday, September 16 5pm-10pm Stewart Theatre SAAC Week Monday, September 19-Thursday, September 23 6pm-9pm Witherspoon Gallery “Black Man With A Horn” Wednesday, August 17- Friday, September 30 Monday-Friday 9am-5pm AACC Gallery

OCTOBER:

“Too Heavy The Yoke” by Chanequa Walker-Barnes Talk and Book Signing Monday, October 3 6pm-8pm Witherspoon 126 Keeping it PG: Pretty & Green Friday, October 11 TBA

Beauty is Skin Deep Tuesday, October 11 6pm-9pm Witherspoon 126 25th Anniversary Gallery Monday, October 17- Friday, November 11 AACC Gallery “Bullied from Terror to Triumph” by Tensie J. Taylor Talk and Book Signing Tuesday, October 25 6pm-9pm Witherspoon 126

NOVEMBER:

AASAC General Body Meeting Tuesday, November 1 5:30pm- until Witherspoon 201 PHAMily PHeud Thursday, November 3 TBA KO-Alpha Kappa Alpha Backpack Drive Monday, August 29-Sunday, November 6 Ongoing Red, White and Black Walk Tuesday, November 15 3-5pm Witherspoon 356 Omega Week November 16-22 TBA Witherspoon and Clark Leadership Kick-Off P2 Thursday, November 17 6pm-9pm Witherspoon 126 Kwanzaa Wednesday, November 30 6pm-9pm Witherspoon Cinema

DECEMBER:

KOffee Break Wednesday, December 7 TBA

wednesday, aUGUST 10, 2016 |

news

voter outreach comes to campus ZOE WILSON Staff Writer

The Wake County Board of Elections office is partnering with NC State’s Student Government to host a Voter Outreach Event on campus Aug. 15-20.

“Our main goal is to assist NC State students with registering to vote, updating their address, and providing educational literature about the upcoming election,” said Tiffany Holden, of the Wake County Board of Elections and Coordinator of the Voter Outreach Event.

Holden has been working directly with Brandon Stafford, Student Body Vice President, to plan this event.

“I want to make sure everyone on campus is registered to vote, and my goal is to really engage students when it comes to the political realm so everyone’s voices are heard,” said Stafford, a senior studying environmental sciences.

Together their efforts will educate the students who are of age and properly registered about the three different ways they can vote: early voting, election day voting, or absentee voting by mail. Regardless of the method, they want to empower students to vote and represent their voices.

“It is crucial for millennials to vote in this upcoming election. North Carolina is currently a swing state which means that every vote really does matter. Although

Voting Timeline October 14th: Last day to register to vote.

October 27th: November 5th (1:00 pm): One-Stop Absentee Voting (Early Voting).

November 1st: Last day to request an absentee ballot.

November 8th: Election day (6:30 am - 7:30 pm).

Early Voting Sites Chris RUPERT/Staff Photographer N.C. State students and Raleigh residents line up to vote at the Pullen Community Center Tuesday March 15, 2015. Lines stretched out the door as the wait to get to the polls neared two hours this political season has been a tense one, Be on the lookout during welcome week it’s still important to vote and support the for more information regarding voter democratic nation that our forefathers registration. Student Government is curfought so hard to build,” said Mary Stuart rently working on creating a voter guide Sloan a sophomore studying political pamphlet with unbiased information science. regarding the upcoming elections.

VOTER ID LAW STRUCK DOWN IN NC Important Update: Federal appeals court rejects ID requirements for elections cARL HINTZ Correspondent On Friday, July 29th, three judges from the US 4th Circuit Court of Appeals struck down Photo ID requirements and other voting restrictions that were enacted in 2013 by the NC legislature (S.L. 2013-381). As a result of this ruling, photo ID will not be required to vote. Preregistration, out-of-precinct voting, and same-day registration will be reinstated and early voting will be extended. This marks an important legal victory for defenders of voting rights.

The appellate judges ruled that the 2013 law was “enacted with racially discriminatory intent.” The NC legislature used racial data to specifically disenfranchise African Americans who often vote for Democratic candidates. While the voter ID law might on the

surface seem racially neutral,it directly harms African Americans and other groups.

The Photo ID prevision was informed by data that shows African Americans are more likely to lack DMV Photo IDs and the restrictions on early voting were inspired by data that show African Americans disproportionately use early voting. According to Circuit Judge Dianna Motz, “state legislatures have far too often found facially race-neutral ways to deny African Americans from the franchise.”

In some cases districts have been illegally drawn based on race. On Friday, July 1st the 4th Circuit Court of Appeals found the Wake county school board election maps unconstitutional because they gave more votes to predominantly white suburban areas. Similarly in February 2016, federal judges struck down two predominantly black congressional districts on the grounds that they were racially gerrymandered.

The favorable outcome of NAACP v McCrory highlights the importance of political organizations such as NAACP and League of Women Voters who brought the case forward. While the issue of voting rights is far from settled, this is a step towards a true democracy.

NCSU Creative Services Building1220 Varsity Dr Raleigh, NC Chavis Community Center505 Martin Luther King, Jr Blvd Raleigh, NC Optimist Community Center5900 Whittier Dr Raleigh, NC Green Road Community Center4201 Green Rd Raleigh, NC Lake Lynn Community Center7921 Ray Rd Raleigh, NC Avery Street Recreation Center Annex201 Avery St Garner, NC

Voting Resources -http://www.wakegov.com/ELECTIONS/ -https://vt.ncsbe.gov/voter_ search_public/

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WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 10, 2016 | 5

OIED CENTERS provide support for students KEILAH DAVIS Correspondent and social justice through education, advocacy, and leadership for the campus community. Contrary to the title, the Women’s Center is open and welcoming to everyone. The Women’s Center sees gender on a continuum and champions gender equity and promotes respect for all.

This year the Women’s Center is rolling out some new programming initiatives including a fall film series African American Cultural and monthly Lunch and Learn opCenter portunities. In addition, the Women’s “As the African American Cultural Center is piloting a new Action Team Center (AACC) celebrates 25 years of Initiative which will give students the educating and serving the NC State opportunity to engage in dialogue about University community, one of our gender equity issues while also creating goals is to honor the contributions of opportunity for action. As a center Dr. Augustus M. Witherspoon and that supports students in all ways, the Dr. Lawrence M. Clark in an intenWomen’s Center has also rebranded and tional and spectacular way,” said Toni is launching a new Sexual Assault Help“Mama” Thorpe, AACC program line (919-515-4444). Center staff are coordinator. available to provide advocacy services AACC’s mission is to provide educato survivors of all forms of interpersonal tional events, cultural activities, leadviolence, 24 Hours a day. ership initiatives, advocacy, outreach The Women’s Center is located in suite and comprehensive programming 5210 on the fifth floor of Talley Student focused on African American and culBryan murphy/Photo Editor Union. tures of African descent. AACC offers Yerson Padilla, a senior studying women and gender studies, works at a table in the Multicultural StuGLBT Center on-site counseling in conjunction with dent Affairs (MSA) Center on the fourth floor in Talley Student Union.

The GLBT Center serves students of the Counseling Center, the Library has all sexual orientations, gender identities a collection of more than 7000 items, and gender expressions, including gay, the Art Gallery hosts 4-6 shows per aclesbian, bisexual, pansexual, asexual, ademic year including a student show, queer, transgender, genderqueer, gender and more. AACC provides volunteer fluid, gender non-conforming, non-biopportunities via the AYA Ambassanary, agender, intersex and questioning dors, program assistants, undergradstudents and their allies. The GLBT Cenuate work-study, graduate intern and ter supports six student organizations: graduate assistant positions.

(1) the GLBT Community Alliance (a Multicultural Student Affairs weekly group for GLBT+ students and Multicultural Student Affairs (MSA) their allies), (2) oSTEM (a bimonthly is housed in Talley Student Union group for GLBT+ STEM majors), (3) Suite 4261. MSA is collaborating with QPOC (a bimonthly group for GLBT+ many campus partners to offer exciting students of color), (4) T-Files (a binew programming, events and services Bryan murphy/Photo Editor Bryan murphy/Photo Editor monthly group for transgender, gender this year. Some of these programs The Women’s Center, located on the fifth floor The GLBT center helps to engage and empower mem- non-conforming and non-binary stuinclude Peer Mentor Program, Student of Talley Student union, is a resource for NC bers of the GLBT community at NC State through dents), (5) AcePack (a bimonthly group Success Series and Freshman Honors State students and faculty to advance social providing support networks for students, offering for asexual and aromantic students), and Convocation. To find more information justice and gender equality. identity-based and health-related information and (6) Bi/Pan @ NCSU (a bimonthly group about programs and events, please visit resources, among other resources. for bisexual and pansexual students). the MSA website (http://oied.ncsu.edu/ The GLBT Center hosts events throughout the year, including GLBT History Month in MSA), Twitter (@NCState_MSA), Instagram (@ncstatemsa) and Facebook (www.facebook.

October, Trans Awareness Week in November, Social Justice January, and Week of Action com/NCSUMulticultural). in March. The GLBT Center also coordinates a Volunteer, Internship and Practicum (VIP “You are the reason we are all here and we want to help you to continue to excel acaProgram) that allows students to complete for-credit internships or to volunteer in the demically and professionally. As we begin the 2016-2017 academic year, we challenge you GLBT Center. Finally, the GLBT Center hosts an Alternative Service Break (ASB) Trip to open your head, heart and eyes to new experiences and take advantage of all that our to San Francisco each spring break to allow students to learn about intersectionality and campus has to offer,” said Dr. Jennifer Brown, interim director of MSA. social justice.

Women’s Center The NC State Women’s Center is a catalyst and resource that advances gender equity Office for Institutional Equity and Diversity (OIED) is a university office committed to fostering an inclusive community at NC State. OIED provides guidance, programming, and outreach through four centers: the African American Cultural Center, Multicultural Student Affairs, Women’s Center, and GLBT Center.

wednesday, aUGUST 10, 2016 |

GREEK

features

LIFE

A Comprehensive Guide to Fraternities & Sororities

An Introduction to the National Pan-Hellenic Council Ryan barnes Contributed

Hello Class of 2020! On behalf of the National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC) it is my pleasure to welcome you all to join the Wolfpack community here at NC State. I am Ryan Barnes, the 2015-2016 President of the National Pan-Hellenic Council.

NPHC is a collaborative organization comprised of the nine historically Black Greek lettered fraternities and sororities: Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Inc., Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. and Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. We are sometimes referred to as the “Divine 9” or “D9” for short. Of the nine, we currently have seven actively operating on our campus. Each organization is unique with its own colors, symbolism, mottos, chants, etc.

However, despite the outward differences, all our organizations are rooted in brotherhood/sisterhood, scholarship, and service to the community.

Individual organizations were

founded during the early to mid provide places for our students to 1900’s when this country was come together meet one another. in both a racial and political Last year, we hosted 90 educaturmoil. To combat these issues, tional programs, accumulated NPHC was founded in 1930 on 3,446 volunteer hours, and also the campus of Howard University donated $1,635 dollars to charitawith the purpose and mission ble organizations! of achieving “Una“If you are interested nimity of thought and action as far as in joining an NPHC possible in the con- organization, I strongly duct of Greek letter advise you to do collegiate fraternities independent research, practice discretion, and and sororities, and to consider problems handle expressing your of mutual interest to interest in a professional its member orgamanner. ” nizations.” Since its foundation, NPHC has continued to proNPHC President vide a voice for the African-American community.

On the campus of NC State Choosing to be a member of a university, our council works to fraternity or sorority is an indiprovide a place of community for vidual decision. For some it may African-American students. For not be a good fit. However, for some people It can be overmost joining a Greek organizawhelming and intimidating to tion can be a rewarding and enattend a large university and even lightening opportunity and adds more so as a minority student. value to to the college experience.

Through our council- wide and If you are interested in joining an individual events, we strive to NPHC organization, I strongly educate our community and advise you to do independent

-Ryan Barnes,

research, practice discretion, and handle expressing your interest in a professional manner.

Make sure you attend “Meet NPHC” on Friday August 19th in the Witherspoon Student Center from 5:00-7:00PM. This will be an opportunity to get to know our council members. Also mark you calendars for the week of September 25th – October 1st which will be NPHC week! Follow our Instagram pages so that you can receive updates on our programs throughout the year.

Good luck with your first week of classes and welcome to NC State!

We look forward to meeting you!

Best, Ryan Barnes, National Pan-Hellenic Council, President

features

Multicultural Greek Council Embraces all STEPHANIE TATE Editor-in-Chief

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 10, 2016 | 7

Panhellenic Assocation & IFC Welcome Potential Recruits meredtith mason Harrison jenkins Contributed

In an effort to promote inclusiveness in the fraternal community the Multicultural Greek Council (MGC) Panhellenic Association serves as the governing body for a diverse group of NC State’s Panhellenic Association is comsororities and fraternities at NC State. The sororities posed of 1,375 women who make up 10 -Bid include: Alpha Pi Omega, Alpha Phi Gamma, Kappa chapters on our campus! We are chartering a The formal membership invitation of a particular fraternity or Phi Lambda, Lambda Pi Chi, Lambda Theta Alpha and new sorority - Kappa Kappa Gamma - after sorority.

Theta Nu Xi. The fraternities include: Delta Sigma Iota, our formal recruitment process ends in the fall.

-Bid Day Lambda Theta Phi, Phi Sigma Nu and Pi Alpha Phi. This is a rare and unique opportunity to start a The last day of formal recruitment when everyone is officially While there are four councils under the office of brand new chapter! placed in a new home. (The equivalent to Hogwarts students getting Fraternity and Sorority Life, Yerson Padilla a senior Last year, our community volunteered 56,645 sorted into their houses by the sorting hat in Harry Potter). studying women and gender studies and the president service hours and donated $127,828 to philan-Chapter of MGC, says “each council is very different.” Among thropic organizations. Our community celeA chapter refers to a local operating body of a national organizathe six sororities and four fraternities in MGC there brates and fosters outstanding amongst women tion. Most organizations have different chapters located on college are a variety of cultures and ethnic backgrounds reprewho come from a variety of backgrounds and campuses across the nation. sented. According to Padilla “MGC is different because experiences,have different interests and ideas, -Crossing we are culturally based. We have Native American, but share common values.

The same as being initiated. Generally means transitioning from Latinx, Multicultural, South Asian and Asian interest Panhellenic recruitment is an exciting opfrom being an aspirant to being an official member. organizations.” portunity for women interested in joining a so-Intake The diversity of MGC organizations is also representrority. It is a mutual selection process between The process some organizations perform to recruit, interview, ed in their new member process. While some chappotential new members and the Panhellenic select, and educate new members. ters do a formal rush, others do what is called intake.

Sororities. Any woman who is a full-time stu-Line or Pledge Class Padilla adds that “every chapter is highly interested in dent at NC State can be a part of a Panhellenic Refers to a group of members who are initiated at the same time. people who are dedicated to learn more about different chapter. Come by our events to meet PanhellenLines are usually designated by semester and initiatiion year. cultures or their own.” According to the Fraternity and ic members and learn more about our chapters -Line Name Sorority Life website some organizations will recruit and community through our website: www.

A form of nickname given to newly initiated members meant to new members throughout the semester and there is no ncsupanhellenic.com describe their character. registration fee required.

-Nalia In addition to the many events hosted by the orgaInterfraternity Council Short for paraphernalia. The different items of Greek clothing or nizations within the council, the council itself puts The NC State Interfraternity Council (IFC) is items someone is wearing. on a number of events throughout the year to display one of four councils housed in the Department -Neophyte (aka “Neo”) their purpose. According to Padilla “MGC’s purpose of Fraternity and Sorority Life. NC State’s IFC A newly initiated member of a Greek organization. is to foster a sense of identity and cultural awareness consists of 21 affiliated men’s organizations -New Member Presentation (aka Probate) through our various culturally based organizations.” who host over 1200 men. IFC is committed to A formal revelation of a new line to campus. Usually done in a Last year around MGC hosted a popular event called diversity and inclusion. public forum after members have been initiated.

Culture is Not a Costume. Padilla says this event Together, IFC organizations volunteered -Prophyte “highlighted cultural appropriation during Halloween over 30,000 hours of service, and donated over Term used to refer to an older brother/sister from your chapter and how problematic stereotypes are.” $65,000 to charities. 83% of IFC members are -Sands While the Multicultural Greek Council hosts proengaged in other campus activities, with many A member of your organization that was initiated at the same time grams and events it also serves as a support system for holding leadership positions. 100 % of IFC you were. students within the chapters that make up the council. chapters have a scholarship chair, 90% have an -Strolling Padilla says “we are a very close council. We all supacademic advisor and 95% have a plan to supA syncronized line movement done by members Greek organizaport one another, and a lot of us hang out and actually port their member’s academic success. tions; usually done at a parties or step shows. know each other. We serve as an extended family to This fall, IFC will host a formalized recruit-Yard the chapters that make a part of MGC.” ment process. This process allows all interestThe term used to refer to the campus or university a chapter is at.

The biggest thing Padilla wants incoming students to ed individuals to meet with the 21 chapters, know about MGC? “MGC is culturally based, but not have conversations about what it means to be exclusive to multicultural students. Anyone is welcome a member of a specific fraternity, meet other to join.” students going through the recruitment process Multicultural Greek Council prides itself on being and select the chapter that is the best fit for supportive of its students. Padilla states “we are a safe them. There are also opportunities to join in the space for people.” spring, but this process is less formal. To learn more about the recruitment process, visit More information about MGC can be found on the Fraternity and Sorority Life website or go.ncsu.edu/ifc. in their office on the fifth floor of Talley Student Union.

Greek Life Glossary

features

wednesday, aUGUST 10, 2016 | 8

TOP SEVEN PEOPLE AND PLACES TO GET TO KNOW Anahzsa Jones Managing Editor College is hard enough, between classes, homework and just navigating around the campus. Thankfully, NC State has several resources to make the college journey as smooth of a ride as possible. Here are the top seven people and places both new and old students can use to make their college experience a success.

1. Academic Advisor An academic advisor is the number one person to go to with any questions or concerns about classes, drop dates, credits, and what students should or shouldn’t be taking in order to get where they want to go in their academic career. An advisor’s job is to help students succeed, and because they are appointed within the colleges, they know exactly how to do that. Students can develop a meaningful one on one relationship with their advisors, who can then help tailor make their academic experience to help them on the road to success. It’s highly recommended that students meet with their advisor a couple times through the semester, and be open and honest with them.

2.Career Development Center

While academic advisors can help students decide what classes to take, a career development counselor can guide them towards their career goals.

From helping find activities on campus that can enhance skill sets to going over resumes and cover letters, the counselors will do everything they can to help students succeed. The Career Development Center also offers workshops and seminars focusing on different career building skills, such as interviews and resume writing. There

are also the many career fairs that happen on campus that are coordinated by the CDC. For more information, visit the office in Pullen Hall, or call them at (919)515-2396.

3. University Tutorial Center

Classes can get difficult quickly, so it is best to be open to tutoring. The University Tutorial Center is located in Park Shops, right behind Port City Java, and a great place to get help for difficult classes. It’s best to start early.

To utilize the tutoring program, new students have to submit an application and attend an orientation. Tutoring can happen in two ways, weekly assigned tutoring, where students work with a tutor on a regular basis to keep them on track, or sign up tutoring, when they make appointments as needed.

Students, new or old, shouldn’t wait for chemistry or physics to get hard before they seek assistance. The staff is friendly, and the tutors are accomplished students who know exactly what their peers are going through. For more information, visit the center’s website https://tutorial.dasa.ncsu.edu/, or call (919)515-3163.

4. Financial Aid Advisor

Another important advisor to know is a financial aid advisor. Students to whom this applies should make sure they know the name of their specific financial aid advisor and the best way to get in touch with them. When it comes to paying for school, it’s best to know exactly what one is doing and when they should be doing it at all times. The process can be confusing, and most don’t understand why half of it has to get done. Between verification forms and priority deadlines, the experience

can get harrowing, but having an advisor who knows the process backwards and forwards makes it much easier.

Students can find out who their advisor is on the NCSU office of financial aid and scholarships website and contact them directly, contact the office via phone, (919)515-2421 or email financialaid@ncsu.edu.

5. Resident Advisor/Director

For those students living in dorms, knowing their resident director and advisors makes on-campus living a better, more inclusive experience. These are the people that organize and coordinate activities like movie nights and game nights for the residents. They’re also the ones to go to if students are having troubles with other residents.

While learning interpersonal skills is important, having a third party mediator can make settling disputes much easier. RA’s are fellow students, so they know the struggles their residents are facing and can be great for giving advice and talking through situations with. Students meet their RA on move in day and are given their contact information so they are always available.

6. Teacher Assistant

Another important, yet underutilized, resource is teaching assistants.

Most first year classes have an upperclassman or graduate student assisting the professor with labs and grading.

Like professors, teaching assistants often have office hours and are available for questions about assignments and tests. Students should get to know their TAs early in the semester to take full advantage of things like study tips.

Most professors will provide contact information for their TAs on the syl-

labus or in class on the first day. If not, then students can ask their professors directly.

7. CSLEPS

Want to make a difference in your community or build your leadership skill set? The Center for Student Leadership, Ethics, and Public Service (CSLEPS) offers service opportunities and leadership development workshops to NC State students. For students interested in doing service project during school breaks, CSLEPS offers domestic and international alternative service breaks. In addition to hosting several service opportunities, CSLEPS can also connect students with local organizations that match their interests. Participating in CSLEPS programs enables student to grow both personally and professionally while meeting other students with similar passions and interests. For more information, visit CSLEPS in Talley Student Union on the fourth floor or visit their website at https://csleps.dasa.ncsu.edu.

These are just some of the resources available to help NC State students thrive. They serve as a great starting point for students to build their support network away from home.

“Classes can get difficult

quickly so it is best to be open to tutoring.”

-Anahzsa Jones

Managing Editor

OPINION

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 10, 2016 | 9

GUEST COLUMN: DR. KWESI BROOKINS between the world and you Welcome or welcome back to NC State University. We trust you found respite and rejuvenation this summer. Did you take advantage of opportunities to do things beyond your educational life? Perhaps you became active in civic or political causes or gained a greater understanding of the forces that shape our lives? We hope so. Those of us connected to Africana Studies have learned a lot these past few months from conversations with each other, students and those beyond the campus walls. We understand that many are struggling to understand and find ways to have positive impacts on the seeming madness affecting our communities and nation, particularly for people of color. We also understand that little of this is new.

If you’ve ever taken a class with me you know I’m always reflecting on books. A recent one was the 2014 book

by Ta-Nehisi Coates, “Between the Dr. kWESSI World and Me.” Written as a letter to BROOKINsS his son in the wake of several public acts of violence against Black men, it is a personal testimony and polemic that seeks to explain how we arrived at this point in our nation. It provides a critical context to why, from almost the beginning of our time here in America, Black lives have not and continue to not matter for too many. It fits squarely in the tradition of the many Black thinkers and doers who have also exposed injustice. It also captures much of what we do as Africana Studies teachers, scholars and mentors.

But it is not enough to just point out the problems.

Indeed, the doing part is always the most difficult.

But of course, that is why your engineering, biological sciences, textiles, Spanish, or whatever major you may be pursuing matters. If you do not leave this university broadly prepared to make a positive impact on our

world, particularly on those issues that involve race, caste and class, then we as an institution have not done our job. And if you’re wondering what your degree has to do with these issues? Let us show you.

So, have you taken a course covering the lives of people of African descent in America or the African Diaspora? Do you plan to? Although it was not always the case, the numbers of African American students in our classes is now too small a percentage of those enrolled at NC State. And for other students, it is often the case that our courses are only taken to fulfill a general education requirement. This does not have to be the case. The state of the world--the state of the Black world--demands that you take advantage of a privilege three-quarters of the college-aged population in the United States does not have: access to an intellectually-rigorous and globally-focused education on the Black experience. We want and need to see as many of you in our classes as possible, along with your peers, across the racial and cultural spectrum. The destinies of all who pass through this university are intertwined.

The degree to which we as a society make real the integrity and well-being of Black lives will enhance the lives of all.

So that is why Africana Studies is here. For more than 40 years, the culture, knowledge, spirit, struggle and love embodied within the Black experience has been a bridge for students between this temporary world of college life and the world they will be needed to positively impact. So we welcome you to our classes, offices and programs. While the world awaits your full arrival, we will work to ensure you are properly prepared.

Dr. Kwesi Brookins Director, Interdisciplinary Degree Programs Coordinator, Africana Studies Program

wednesday, aUGUST 10, 2016 |

opinion

DEAR CLASS OF 2020: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW Welcome to NC State!

As a minority student at a predominately-white university, your transition to college won’t mirror that of your peers.

Sometimes people will wonder why you take so long to wash your hair in KEILAH the shower. Sometimes DAVIS you’ll question whether Staff Writer NC State was the right choice. But by the end of this year, you’ll have grown in ways you can’t yet imagine.

I hope the bits of advice in this letter help you make the most of your first year at NC State.

Mama Thorpe is easily one of the best people you’ll meet here. Her hugs are the encouragement you never knew you needed. Her wisdom is unparalleled. If you ever need some empowerment in your life,

go talk to Mama Thorpe for 5 minutes.

It’s okay to miss home. You’ll probably miss it more than you anticipated. Call, text, or FaceTime your family and friends.

Trust me, they want to hear from you.

Join the Nubian Message. (Yes, that was a shameless plug.) But seriously, you should join the clubs that interest you.

Extracurricular activities are great ways to connect with people who have similar interests. With proper time management, they can also help you take a break from thinking about school work.

Connect with community. This can be people within your major, residence hall, or religious affiliation, or people you meet through clubs. Connecting with the right people helps build your support system.

These people will help you study for that CH101 test or be available to vent about life at 2am.

Find mentors. Your mentor could be assigned through the Peer Mentor Pro-

gram or simply be an upperclassman you admire. We still remember what it’s like to be a freshman and most of us would love to share our tips and tricks of surviving and thriving in college.

Don’t sleep through morning classes. While getting an extra hour of sleep sounds tempting, and you’ll convince yourself that it will only happen this one time, it is a slippery slope to poor attendance and a bad start for your GPA. If you are unlucky enough to have classes that start before 9am, push through it and hope for better luck next semester.

Your life is just beginning. You have at least three more years before you graduate and even more before you’ll actually have life figured out. No one is expecting you to have everything together. Take a deep breath, acknowledge your mistakes, and learn from them.

You’re not alone. Whether you’re dealing with homesickness, an identity crisis,

feelings of inadequacy, or even something as simple as confusion about where your next class is located, there are other people experiencing it too.

Freshman year is all about discovering yourself so take any and every opportunity for growth. Try something outside of your comfort zone, whether that be pool battleship or taking a new language. Even if you fail, at least you tried something new.

When all else fails, remember what got you to NC State in the first place. You’re a talented individual who worked extremely hard to get to here. You also have a support system that is partially responsible for your success, thank them.

NC State is a complex, yet amazing place full of opportunities, so make the most of your time here and you should be just fine.

WHAT I WISH I HAD KNOWN MY FRESHMAN YEAR Congratulations!

You are beginning your journey as a college student. The next four, or four and a half, or maybe even five years of your life will be some of the most CHAUNCEY life-changing of all.

BOWDEN I’m certain that all Staff Writer of your friends and family have already been passing along their knowledge and wisdom to you. And while experience will always be the best of teachers, I will attempt to pass along some knowledge to you that has helped me in my 4 years at State and pray that maybe it helps you too.

I wish I would have known to be smarter with my money. Sure, most of us will be broke college students, but there are levels of “brokeness” and I have definitely been at the lowest of the lows. Maxing out your graduation money and refund check on Chipotle burrito bowls and crop tops from Forever 21, probably isn’t the smartest thing to do -- trust me. There are fewer things sadder than eating Ramen noodles

for a week straight because you maxed out enough to combat the beloved “freshman your dining dollars. fifteen”. Of course gaining a few pounds I wish I would have known that I don’t isn’t the end of the world, but if maintainhave to deal with stress or depression alone. ing your physique is important to you, College is challenging and it will test you Carmichael gym offers really fun group in more ways than fitness classes to help you ever imagined. keep you in shape. But Maxing out your graduation while on the topic of While we bravely accept the challeng- money and refund check on health, make sure to es that come along always practice safe sex Chipotle burrito bowls and with pursuing a and get tested regularly. crop tops from Forever 21, four-year degree, STDs are in abundance one should never on college campuses! probably isn’t the smartest settle for an enviWhile getting tested ronment that is not thing to do -- trust me. may be daunting, conducive to their knowing is always mental well-being. better.

When the load gets Senior studying philosophy of I wish I would have too heavy, take full known that life-long law friendships aren’t aladvantage of the resources available ways made right away. to students on Initially I felt that evcampus such as the Student Health Center. eryone was out making these connections There you will find an excellent counseling and I was watching from the sidelines. center with professionals readily available Remember that everyone else is trying to to help try and make your time at NC State figure out their new life the same way that as happy and healthy as possible. you are -- give it time. While it may seem I wish I would have known that my hard, especially if you’re an introvert, put walk to and from my classes would not be yourself out there a little.Getting involved

“

”

-Chauncey Bowden,

in clubs and organizations with like-minded people is a great way to make friends. If you have a hard time making friends right away, be careful when traveling on campus alone. If you can’t find someone to walk with you, take full advantage of the campus escort service...just call 30 minutes ahead, because they’re always slow.

Here’s the thing, you’re obviously smart or else you wouldn’t be here, and I am confident that you have all the tools necessary in order to succeed. Enjoy yourself and have fun, but remember what you are here to do. Don’t ever be afraid to grow and evolve. Come December when you go home for Christmas break, your family and friends may remark about the ways that you have changed; don’t be intimidated by this. Your world is growing and your knowledge is expanding. If you attend college and experience no growth or change, you have done yourself a disservice.

I know that sometimes you may grow weary when you are surrounded by individuals who seem more different from you than they are the same. But always remember that you belong here, you have the right to be here and you are important to this community.

opinion

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 10, 2016 | E

How loyal are you? Get Ahead of the Curve How to make the most of sporting events at NC State

Caslee sims Staff Writer So you’ve been in your books all week, and the food at Fountain Dining Hall is just getting you through. You’ve gathered up mountains of free NC State gear throughout your first week while hearing about the countless opportunities you’ll be exposed to. That’s just something that comes with being a part of the Pack. But there’s so much more that comes with being a member of the Pack. One of the greatest things about being an NC State student is the love/hate relationship you’ll develop with our sports teams throughout your time here.

Win or lose, the Pack fans will let you know that it never ends until the clock strikes all zeros.

This year marks the 50th anniversary of the Wolfpack playing its football at Carter-Finley Stadium not to mention the reopening of historic Reynolds Coliseum.

There will be a lot of celebratory breaks in the action to acknowledge these two landmarks. Make sure your bathroom breaks do not prohibit your participation in these moments.

Tickets

NC State implemented its lottery-like loyalty point system to control the demand of student ticket requests. Points are given at the beginning of the fall semester and distributed by your class level so not everyone begins on a level playing field.

You’ll get more points the more games you attend. Earning your keep is the name of the game so freshmen start at the bottom of the totem pole. Here’s how initial points are distributed: Seniors- Nine points Juniors- Seven points Sophomores- Five Points

Freshmen- A whopping three points

Campout

There is a fun alternative for racking up loyalty points, but it only happens once.

Campout is honestly one of those things you just have to do as a student at NC State. Just like voting is a civic duty, going to Campout is a student duty. Beginning as a full-fledged campout for NC State vs. UNC-Chapel Hill basketball tickets, Campout maintains its same overnight stay principles, but this time it’s for loyalty points for future, possible tickets to big games. For a freshman this serves as a fun booster without toiling through an NC State football game vs. a team they’d for sure demolish. Being a former attendee, I can say that this is a great event to earn loyalty points while eating free food. What could be better?

Student Wolfpack Club

The Student Wolfpack Club is in layman’s terms an athletic booster club with one common goal: Uniting for Wolfpack sporting events. There are perks like priority seating at games, which comes with a job of its own: never stop cheering for the Pack because we can see you on live broadcast.

Transportation

The Red Terror bus system that takes students to and from off-campus home games is a blessing. The bus runs through various spots on campus three hours before a Woflpack football game and two before men’s basketball games atPNC Arena. The Red Terror is an exhilarating place to be, especially for your first game. Enjoy it.

College days swiftly pass and those loyalty points definitely matter.