Volume 127 Fall 2017 Roundup Issue 2

Student Information System errors

First week tech issues complicate students access to readily add or drop classes

Private school transfers dropping Students prefer a clearer path to public universities

Pierce College leads the district with overall transfer rates to public California institutions, however transfer rates to private and elite universities are in the single digits for the school.

According to the LACCD Office of Institutional Research, in 2012, 4,628 students transferred from one of the district’s nine colleges to a California public institution. Of those students, 1,247 were from Pierce College, about 27 percent of all transfers.

STEVEN TAN Reporter @stevent_roundup

The district’s new student information system PeopleSoft has hindered students, and faculties’ ability to access and submit applications and add classes at Pierce.

Dean of Student Services

William Marmolejo said that the new system was overwhelmed with student records, resulting in the technical errors.

"When you have thousands and thousands of records, old records as well as new students coming in there, the system takes a break,” Marmolejo said.

“Students couldn't even register

for classes on day two. We were scrambling. We found out it was one of the servers we set up. We fixed it, and we haven't had a problem since then.”

AJ Dimalanta, a full-time student, said that registering for classes has been more confusing since the implementation of the new system.

“Searching for classes now is more complicated,” Dimalanta said. “With a little more instruction it could be manageable, because once they introduced the website they kind of lose you. They should display the new process on how to do these things. The system crashes a lot and is not the best.”

Student Roni Rosen said that the financial aspects of dropping and paying for classes was the most tedious to figure

out. “To make it easier to access, I would want things to be more clear. I was able to pay for classes, but the only thing was that I couldn't drop a class, and it didn't really tell me how much money I was expected to get in return. I had to go wait in line at the business to find out,” Rosen said.

Lauren Dziedzic, said that because the system was down during the summer, it was more frustrating trying to sign up for classes for the semester.

"The first time I logged in and saw it was available, the link was a bad link and the system was down a few times,” Dziedzic said. “Especially during summer before school started which made it difficult for me.”

Making it up as she goes

An up-and-coming artist shares her talent to inspire

NATALIE MIRANDA Reporter @natalierosemir

Like a painter’s blank canvas or a sculptor's block of clay, the human face is where Priscilla Jauregui finds her inspiration.

Jauregui, a liberal studies major, was the only child in a family raised by inspirational female figures. Her earliest memories of makeup come from her mother, grandmother and older cousins.

“My grandma used to do makeup when she was younger, and I would see her do her makeup and use her eyebrow brush,” Jauregui said.

She also recalls taking inspiration from her cousins and wanting to be just like them when she grew up.

“All my cousins are older than me, and they all wore makeup. My cousin curled my lashes, and I just remember loving how big my eyes looked,” Jauregui said.

After having her cousin

curl her eyelashes for the first time, Jauregui said, she started experimenting with eyeliner. She would line in and around her eyes, then brush through her eyebrows, and after that, apply mascara. When she decided to move on from lining her waterline, she soon discovered her love for winged liner and has since made it a staple in her day-to-day makeup routine.

Jauregui showcases her makeup abilities on her professional Instagram page, which attracts new clients.

No’Elani Nevis, Jauregui’s friend, encouraged her to take advantage of social media as a platform to share her talent when she first began her journey as a makeup artist.

“You need to get out there. Do Instagram, really push it, do all the tags, get yourself out there and get some followers,” Nevis said. She advised Jauregui to “create a screen name and just start using social media.”

In addition to Instagram, Jauregui said she is experimenting

with creating makeup videos on Youtube. However, she is still contemplating whether or not to post them.

“It’s scary. It’s kind of nerveracking. I have a few videos, but I haven’t hit the upload button,” Jauregui said.

Jauregui has been doing makeup professionally for approximately two years, and she has seen the most growth in clientele due to recommendations from family and friends.

“It’s all by word of mouth,” Jauregui said. “Honestly, that’s the biggest help. All of my clients started with my cousin, and then my cousin’s friend, then my friend, and then my friend’s friend, and people just recommend me.”

Jauregui, who began playing with makeup when she was 13, said she never looked at it as a challenge.

[For the full story visit theroundupnews.com]

Other students, particularly those who are new to the district, found the transition much smoother.

“It's honestly been an easy experience to get into classes,” Malia Ewart, a transfer student, said. “I can get everything done in a day or two, which is pretty nice. The system seems to be pretty efficient, adding classes is efficient, and transferring units has been pretty easy."

According to Marmolejo, students won’t have anymore issues with PeopleSoft.

“The new system is supposed to work better with deadlines. We will do whatever it takes to accommodate, and we will not turn people away,” Marmolejo said. “We will do whatever it takes to get students into the class if there are issues on

their transcripts that shouldn't even be there. In do time it will work out. I am confident that a year from now, you will not be having questions about the PeopleSoft system.”

Enrollment numbers continue to be down throughout the district. According to Marmolejo, the low numbers are due to various reasons, but confusion with the new SIS system may contribute to lower numbers for the next few semesters.

“Our enrollment numbers have been off,” Marmolejo said. “I do believe the issues could have something to do with it. I haven't seen the numbers, but I imagine that it is impacting it.

stan.roundupnews@gmail.com

“I think we have a really strong Transfer Center. We have really good career counselors who do a good job of helping students find out what options are available,” PIerce counselor David Turcotte said. “Primarily, it's our counselors who do an amazing job of informing our students about how to transfer. Our transfer director does an amazing job working with our counselors and staff.”

According to Turcotte, transferring from a California community college to an in-state public university is considered easier because of the standardized requirements of general education. Most UC’s accept IGETC certification, and most CSU’s take the CSU Breadth, both achievable at all LACCs, according to Assist.org.

“LACCD has agreements with UCs and CSUs that many of our students take advantage of,” Turcotte said. “Those type of degrees make it extremely easy for our students to transfer. I don’t know that we have as many agreements with private schools. It doesn't mean we don't articulation agreements, because we do, I just think students prefer to take advantage of other agreements.”

Private and elite universities have different, non-standard articulation agreements, in addition to a higher level of requirements and limited space for enrollment.

Pierce College has special articulation agreements with private and specialized colleges, such as Loyola Marymount University, USC, FIDM, USF, as well as out-of-state universities Kansas, Oregon and Arizona State.

In 2016, 649 LACCD students transferred to in-state private schools, 113 of them Pierce students, according to the California Community College Chancellor’s Office.

Though Pierce has one of the highest transfer rates in the district, Dean of Student Services William Marmolejo said that enrollment numbers at Pierce have been lower than previous years.

]

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Photo illustration by Taylor Arthur

A cracked computer screen simulates the frustration students experienced when logging into the system during the first week of the semester.

Taylor Arthur / Bull Magazine Editor in Chief Priscilla Jauregui stands outside her apartment in Winnetka, calif. on Sept. 15, 2017 after she put on her makeup for the day. Jauregui is a makeup artist that specializes in weddings.

VANESSA ARREDONDO News Editor @v_anana

The ground starts to shake beneath you as you walk through the hallway on campus, and you notice that everyone around you has no clue what to do. How do you react? Where should you go? More preparation could answer these questions.

Students, faculty and staff need the knowledge of what to do in case of a natural disaster. Every October, multiple schools across the state participate in the Great California Shakeout, an annual emergency evacuation drill designed to reinforce safe procedures during an earthquake.

In grade school it was easier for students to understand what to do and where to go. The Pierce community are confused and unaware of drills that occur on our campus.

Last year during the Shakeout some students, like Katherine Orellana, didn’t know the drill was happening.

“I know we did that in high school, but I thought no colleges do that; like, they just expect you to know what to do. Everyone’s kind of for themselves here, I guess,” Orellana said. “In times of panic, people don’t really know what to do.”

Last year, Pierce had difficulties properly executing the drill, according to an article in the Roundup. There was a lack of communication, making students, faculty and staff unaware of what needed to be done in case of an emergency.

To close the gap on communication, there should be an intercom system in place that can make people aware of emergency situations so that everyone can be on the same page.

The organization of information for the drill needs to be sent out sooner than three days prior to the drill. If an earthquake were to happen, we would literally be shook with the lack of preparation.

On Thursday, Sept. 7, 2017, Mexico experienced an 8.2 magnitude earthquake that caused severe damage and

death, according to an article in the L.A. Times. The Foreign Relations Department said 95 people had died nationwide in Thursday’s quake, according to the Washington Post. The L.A. Times article added that it’s possible California could have the same type of destruction with an earthquake of equal or greater magnitude.

If we have more earthquake drills and information year round, people on campus may have less panic and more awareness.

The L.A. Times article said a magnitude 8.2 earthquake would rupture the San Andreas Fault from the Salton Sea, close to the Mexican border, all

the way to Monterey County.

The San Andreas Fault runs approximately 700 miles from the Salton Sea to Cape Mendocino and is 10 miles deep, according to sanandreasfault.org

On Monday, Sept. 18, 2017, a 3.6 magnitude earthquake occurred at 11:22 p.m. in Westwood Village, CA, according to NBC LA. It ran 6 miles deep along the Santa Monica fault line.

This year’s Great California Shakeout begins at 10:19 a.m. on Oct. 19. Information needs to start going out immediately. Safe zones and evacuation procedures need to be drafted now.

There can be four zones on campus for students, faculty

“OprahWinfrey,becauseI wouldbeabletosharemy knowledgeandinfluence withdifferentpeoplearound the world.”

Online classes are a beneficial resource for students who are unable to physically attend a class. Obviously, whether or not an online class is easier compared to a normal class depends on how disciplined a student is when it comes to schoolwork and meeting deadlines. If a student is able to manage time, as well as keep up with deadlines, then online classes are easier by far.

While taking an online class, there is still time to speak with the professor and ask them questions based on the coursework.

For students who work in addition to attending school, online classes can be extremely beneficial. Some students simply cannot afford to not work and go to school full-time. For some, work schedules do not permit enough time to attend regular classes. While taking online classes, students have the opportunity to complete homework, tests and quizzes on their time when it is convenient for them, instead of having to meet deadlines in a physical classroom. Online classes allow students to attend school, get an education, and go to work all at the same time.

Online classes are also beneficial to students who have

children. Not only is it difficult to find childcare for nearly an entire day, it is also extremely expensive. While taking online classes, a student with children is able to care for their child during the day, and make time for school and work when they have time to do so. Online classes are easier for people who have busy lives and other commitments that they cannot avoid.

Aside from the convenience and flexibility of online courses, something else to take into consideration is the more comfortable learning environment that online classes offer. For some students, it is simply more comfortable to be at home in their own environment. Oftentimes, this makes learning easier for students and makes them feel more at ease by just simply being able to be at home.

Online classes also teach students how to be disciplined learners. Online classes force students to manage time effectively and start assignments in a timely manner so they are still able to meet deadlines and due dates.

Online classes offer a variety of benefits to the students who choose to participate in them. Whether it be for financial reasons, time constraints, or just overall comfort, online classes offer benefits to all students.

smatzaganian.roundupnews@gmail.com

and staff to meet after an earthquake; parking lot 1 for the administrative buildings and the botanical gardens, the empty field near the village, parking lot 7 for the center for sciences, auto and industrial tech, child development and the cafeteria and parking lot 6 for the art center and faculty offices. Each office and classroom should also have an emergency kit. They could include items such as a battery-powered radio, a flashlight, extra batteries, a first aid kit, a whistle to signal for help, a few dust masks or cotton t-shirts, to help filter the air, some moist towelettes for sanitation, non perishable

YADHIRA GONZALEZ Reporter @yadhiralgs

I am against online classes, even though I have never taken one before. I don’t understand how a course can be taken from a computer or laptop, instead of having a professor live and in person explaining the subject or lesson.

Students don’t learn the same. It is not the same school atmosphere you would experience by being in an actual classroom. Anywhere else, there might be too many distractions going on, not allowing a student to completely focus on or comprehend the lesson. An online lesson seems difficult because students have to read more directions. In contrast, a regular class has a professor talking and explaining everything step by step. All students have to do is listen carefully and pay close attention to complete the assignment given.

In an online class, if a student has a question, or doubts what to do, the professor might not be available right away to solve the issue. Maybe they will take a while to respond to an email, thus not allowing the student to complete the work until the request has been responded to.

Another problem with online courses is that not every student is good with computers and technology, and they might think the whole process is difficult to follow. Also, some students might not own a computer or laptop. Some

food and a manual can opener, according bepreparedcalifornia. ca.gov.

The closest faults line to campus are the Chatsworth and Northridge Hills faults.

A magnitude 8.2 on the San Andreas Fault could cause damage in every city in Southern California, from Palm Springs to San Luis Obispo, according seismologist Lucy Jones.

Can we ever be fully prepared for an earthquake? No, but with more information and preparation, there can be less fear and desperation.

“I would be Will Smith. He’s justcool,andwhenIwas younger,Iusedtohavea hightoplikehimandpeople wouldsayIresemblehim. PlusmylastnameisSmith.”

-Amari Smith, 19, Undecided

may not have Wi-Fi access at home and might be forced to travel to a public library, a coffee shop with free Wi-Fi, or even to a college campus where they should have taken the regular class in the first place.

By taking an online class, you cannot participate in class activities and discussions like one would do in a classroom full of students with whom you can interact, build great new relationships, and make new friends. Instead, those who take the online class, stay home by themselves talking to a screen and not human beings.

Some people prefer to take classes at their convenience and own pace according to their schedule and busy life, so they choose online classes instead of the traditional campus life. However, things like education should be kept the original, old-fashioned way.

A student should be a student by actually attending an educational institute, not by staying home, doing classwork or reading a lesson from a place that is not a school facility.

Technology and computers are replacing objects and people. We are living in an era in which technology has advanced so much, and has changed the world for good and bad. I just hope that online classes and technology don’t ever replace professors in a classroom, because that would be a serious problem.

ygonzalez.roundupnews@gmail.com

-Lauren Habas, 25, Social Behavior Cartoonist:

*For advertising call Matt at (818) 710-2960

endeavors, publicity releases, poetry or other such materials as the Editorial Board deems not to be a letter. The deadline is 11:59 p.m. the Sunday prior to the issue date. Editorial Policy: The Pierce College Roundup position is presented only in the editorials. Cartoons and photos, unless run under the editorial masthead, and columns are the opinions of the creators and not necessarily that of the Roundup. The college newspaper is published as a learning experience

under the college journalism instructional program. The editorial and advertising materials published herein, including any opinions expressed, are the responsibility of the student newspaper staff. Under appropriate state and federal court decisions, these materials are free from prior restraint by the virtue of the First Amendment to the Constitution of the United States of America. Accordingly, materials published herein, including any opinions expressed, should not be interpreted as the position of the L.A. Community College District, the college or any officer or employee thereof.

Illustration by Wyce Mirzad / Roundup

“JenniferLawrence.Sheismy spiritanimal.She’ssofunny, anddoesn’tcarewhatpeople think about her.”

Itzel Barbosa-Estrada, 18, Child Development

Con: Classes online, a waste of time

“IwouldbeRobertDowney Jr.orRyanReynolds.They’re charismatic,allabout themselves,andthey’reboth goodlookingpeople.” -AndresGonzalez,18, Psychology

Giving helpinga hand

NOAH

Reporter @noahgoldbloom

Due to the rising number of homeless students in LACCD, administration and students are looking to start and expand programs to help those in need.

The Los Angeles Times reported that 1 in 5 LACCD students are homeless. Though the number of homeless students attending Pierce is unknown, there has been a noticeable steady rise, according to Director of Health Services Beth Benne. According to Benne, the number of homeless students has increased during the last two decades since she began working here.

Homeless students face hunger and inconsistent housing, which affects their ability to graduate and transfer to four-year institutions, she said.

“They don’t have enough to eat, and their chances of success are extremely reduced, because they are not able to feed their brain and shelter their bodies,” Benne said.

Benne said that she has been trying create a census to get an idea about how many homeless students are on campus. “It isn’t just a problem Pierce faces,” Benne said. “It’s a problem the entire California Community College District is trying to deal with.”

A salute to military students

Veterans Resource Centers has a new place on campus and provides resources

ANDREW CALDERA Reporter @afortincaldera

From a little corner in the Financial Aid office, the Veterans Resource Center is unveiling a new space dedicated to support the needs of returning military students.

Dean of Student Engagement

Juan Carlos Astorga said that there are plans for a grand opening on Veteran’s Day, Nov. 11.

The resource center, tentatively referred to as the Veterans’ Huddle, was established in the Library/ Learning Crossroads (LLC) building during spring 2017 and offers a space for veterans to gather, complete their homework, and provide resources that aid them during college.

Adjunct instructor Charles Johnson, a veteran with 26 years of active duty, is on special assignment with the new resource center. He said that the center exists to support and promote academic success among veterans.

“The goal here is education,” Johnson said. “We want to make sure that your long-term goals are defined and that we got you on the path to achieve those goals. The resources are here to help you become a successful student.”

The Veterans Resource Center refers students to internal services on campus such as counseling and tutoring, helps explain military benefits, and allows access to computers. These resources aid one of the center’s primary goals, which is to help veterans acclimate from a military environment to an educational environment .

As a veteran who went to college after his military service, Johnson said that one of the largest struggles is dealing with the structural differences between the military and the educational environment.

“Whether they’ve done two years or 20-something years, veterans

are like anybody else. The only difference is that, because of their unique experiences, there’s a little more transition,” Johnson said. “The military teaches you how to do a task and do it well; college teaches you how to really look at something and think about it. It’s moving from being a tactical individual to a more strategic individual.”

According to Johnson, the struggles faced by veterans in the college environment do not indicate any inability to perform well academically, and they often prove themselves to be model students.

It is Johnson’s hope that, through the new center, veterans are connected with resources and guidance that help them perform to

the best of their capabilities, so that they feel they belong at Pierce.

“I want veterans to be a part of the college. Not special, not different, not other than, but to be a part of the college and experience academic success,” Johnson said.

According to Director of Financial Aid Anafe Robinson, the Veterans Resource Center has been a long time coming.

Robinson said Pierce College’s need for a resource center dedicated to aiding veterans was discovered through a survey she conducted years ago. However, the college experienced difficulty allocating a spot for the resource center to occupy.

“Real estate within the campus is fairly hard to come by,” Robinson said. “Especially when we used to have construction, a lot of areas were closed off.”

In spring 2016, Astorga met with the Pierce Veterans Club, and the need for space and resources for them was reiterated. According to Astorga, proposals for a Veterans Resource Center were discussed in fall 2016.

“We asked what we could do to provide a tangible space that would help our veteran student population feel understood, validated and supported,” Astorga said. “Then we took that and started to have conversations with our Student Services division about what that might look like.”

Astorga said that a transitional space in the LLC building that had no dedicated use was provided as a starting ground for the Veterans Resource Center. During the spring 2017 semester, an office was built in that space and began providing services to veterans, though it did not have an official opening.

“It’s not the largest space, but it’s a good beginning. I’m confident that we’re going to be able to grow it as time goes by,” Astorga said. "I hope that acknowledgement will help them feel connected, validated and appreciated, so that they become the scholars that they are meant to be.”

afortincaldera.roundupnews@gmail.com

Rundown Brahma Blotter

These incidents were reported between Sept. 10 - Sept. 16

Reported by: Vanessa Arredondo Jose Herrera

09/13

• Bicycle Theft

An unknown suspect stole a bicycle from the east side of the Center for Sciences between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.

09/16

•Trespassing

Two possibly homeless women were found in Building 1500 around 11:20 p.m.

If you see anything on campus report it to the number below:

Pierce College Sheriff’s Station

General Information:

Emergency: (818) 710 - 4311

Damiesha WIlliams/ Roundup

Charles Johnson, adjunct professor on special assignment with the resource center, stands outside of the new Veterans Office SSB208 at Pierce College in Woodland Hills, Calif. on Wednesday, Sept. 13, 2017.

The crown jewel, India

First time’s the charm for beauty queen

ANNA CLARK Features Editor @AnnaClarkReport

The Miss India America

Pageant hadn’t crowned a biracial winner for 25 years until Pierce student India LaRoda won the title this August at the LAX Renaissance Hotel, the first time she has participated in a pageant.

India, 22, is half African American and half East Indian. Focused on what her crown symbolizes, she wants to be an example far beyond the aspect of physical beauty. Because she is new to the pageant world, she is taking her role day by day, but is driven to be a successful woman and represent not only two countries, but two cultures.

Though she has no future plans to compete in another Miss India America pageant, India will be traveling to London to accept the Women’s Purpose Award on Oct.

7.

Often keeping herself on a straight educational path, India wanted a change of pace. After applying to be in the pageant, she worked her way through several rounds, a process that took about a year. India said she wanted an outlet that would allow her to enjoy her youth and have some fun.

According to India, the process was both emotionally and mentally draining and took a lot of hard work. She said that everyone is self-conscious. What she didn’t feel comfortable doing, the pageant made her do. She said she is grateful for the experience because it provided an opportunity for growth.

“I was able to face my insecurities, but also embrace them. It was definitely a transformative experience for me,” India said. India has committed herself to more than pageantry. She spends

her time focusing on her education, and is majoring in English and biology, with a minor in French.

Stephanie Aviles, India’s best friend, said in an email interview that she is one of the most patient and attentive people she knows, and she makes everyone feel comfortable.

“She is driven, and she wants to learn and succeed in what she wants to do in life,” Aviles said.

At 8, India said she already had a sense of what she wanted to do. She saw a documentary about a doctor who traveled to Cambodia and performed cleft lip surgery on young children. India knew from that point on that she wanted to help others.

“I was thinking, if I was a doctor, I could partner with that doctor from the documentary and help. I didn’t know the term was pediatrician,” India said.

of California, Los Angeles, for medical school.

India is working with the organization Passport to Adaptive Living, which helps children with special needs. She specifically helps children age 4 to early adulthood, assisting them with everyday functioning skills. She thinks that this will aid her in the future as she goes on to help children with all types of special needs.

“I want to be a pediatrician, but I want to seperate myself in a way that shows that I am dynamic,” India said.

Following in her pediatric dreams, India is now an ambassador for Smile Train, an organization that performs cleft lip surgeries on young children. According to her, it has come full circle, and she couldn’t be happier.

Though her reign as Miss India America only lasts a year, India wants to focus on helping others through her platform. She hopes to always be an advocate for youth, specifically those who are of mixed race.

India said that there is more work to be done in the future. Her brother Barrett LaRoda does not doubt his sister’s capabilities for a second, he stated in an email.

“Obstacles are very far from her thoughts, and when they do finally confront her, she works through them strategically like a chess game,” Barrett said.

What followed was a pathway dedicated to education. India, who has gone to school year-round since ninth grade, said she has been engaged in learning since day one. Now in her last semester at Pierce College, she hopes to attend Loyola Marymount University for her undergraduate degree, and continue onto University

Barrett said that his sister is a natural born leader, and that she has a positive outlet and state of mind. He notes that his sister, who he manages professionally, does not wait for opportunities to be brought to her, but she is proactive and seeks out the things to be done.

“Any task she sets out to do, she does with commitment and to the best of her ability,” Barrett said.

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Reach for the stars

Astrophysics student invited to NASA workshop

SANDY LUQUE Reporter

@SandyLuque139

People can spend their entire lives without discovering what they’re passionate about. Ryan Kellis not only found his, he’s now excelling at a second.

“Music is a passion that I have been pursuing since I was 14. As far as astrophysics, it’s like it was hibernating, and it just perked up slowly in the last 10 years,” Kellis said. “I guess I have two passions. I consider myself very lucky.”

Kellis was accepted into NASA’s National Community College Aerospace Scholars (NCAS) workshop at Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) in Pasadena.

Acceptance into the workshop, which takes place from Sept. 25 to Sept. 28, required a personal essay, a letter of recommendation and other information such as unofficial transcripts.

“He is trying to move forward, trying to get more knowledge about what is going on and move himself forward in aerospace and astronomy,” Chair of the Physics Department Dale Fields said.

Kellis, who graduated from the University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB) with a bachelor’s degree in music in 2001, began nursing his newfound passion by watching video documentary series and online lectures. Kellis then began taking online quizzes.

“I got a telescope, and I started getting into the study of the stars,” Kellis said. “And then I was like, ‘If I am doing this, I might as well start taking courses at Pierce.’”

Kellis began independent studies

with Fields, who has become a mentor to Kellis.

“He’s unafraid of asking questions, and when he doesn’t know something he doesn’t have that ego of, ‘Of course, I know what this thing is,’” Fields said. “He is very honest of what he knows and what he does not know.”

Kellis’ wife Emily, 34, always had confidence about her husband’s intelligence and the effort he put into his work.

“I am extremely proud of him,” Emily Kellis said. “Ryan has a lot of integrity. He is passionate about everything. He has a hungry mind.”

Ryan and Emily Kellis have been together for 11 years and married for six. “I met him when I was 23 years old,” Emily Kellis said. “He was

my waiter. I always tell my single friends, you never know what a person is going to end up doing.”

According to Emily Kellis, her husband is a person never satisfied with his current place in life. Ryan Kellis always wanted to move forward, and according to her, is a friendly, caring, patient and talented musician with a sense of humor.

“He wants to work for NASA. He wants to pursue both of his passions,” Emily said. “I always tell my family that my husband is wicked smart.”

Kellis said that acceptance into this program will help him gain an insider look into what goes on at JPL, and he hopes to both meet and build relationships with inspiring individuals.

“Some of my expectations are going to be trying to figure out where I would, hypothetically, fit in a place like that,” Kellis said.

He harbors mixed feelings about participating in the program, but Kellis feels excited for this upcoming opportunity.

“I am ecstatic,” Kellis said. “And I am also a little uncertain, but I think those two things go hand in hand, being apprehensive, but also having that buzz of butterflies.”

According to Kellis, professors at Pierce College are more accessible than those at UCSB, and that has helped him be a part of this program.

“I really want to let students know that this program exists,” Kellis said, hoping to encourage others to take an interest in astrophysics.

Kellis hopes to pursue both his passions by eventually working for NASA while also playing music on the weekends.

“Let’s see what happens if I take this to the next level,” Kellis said.

“I was able to face my insecurities, but also embrace them. It was definitely a transformative experience for me,”

-India LaRonda Miss India America

Randi Love / Roundup

India LaRoda in front of a pond at the Commons at Calabasas on Thursday, Sept. 7, 2017 in Calabasas, Calif. LaRoda won Miss India America on Aug. 5, 2017 and was recognized as the first multi-racial winner in 25 years.

Rebecca Schulman / Roundup Ryan Kellis at the Center of Sciences at Pierce College.

Converse with the diverse

Students team with thier non-native peers to improve communication skills

Students who are learning English as a Second Language (ESL) are given the opportunity to improve their conversation skills by teaming up with native speakers and tutors at the Communication Cafe.

The group meets Fridays, from noon to 2 p.m. Students can sign in at the Center for Academic Success (CAS) and meet at the cafe near the Library / Learning Crossroads (LLC). Communication Cafe was implemented by Lori Travis, an adjunct faculty of speech. She taught in the MBA program at Cal Lutheran University and worked with international business students.

“I had the opportunity to volunteer at the Communication Cafe at Cal Lutheran. It gave me a chance to work with the international students, and it gave me a chance to see how things were administered,” Travis said. “I saw how it improved English fluency for my students, so I decided to launch a satellite program here at Pierce College.”

According to Sarah Naqvi, a biology student who has been

a tutor for the group since last summer, students were shy and extremely apprehensive about joining the group because they thought that they would be judged by others. Naqvi said that she enjoys the satisfaction gained from watching students grow and become more confident.

“As time goes, they progress and become more comfortable. I love watching them attain their goals. At the beginning, they were extremely bashful, now they are discussing things like food, politics and the exploration of different cultures,” Naqvi said. “I get a sense of self-satisfaction knowing that some of the students did not know English. They amaze me because they come from different parts of the world. They are excelling at leaps and bounds. Because of that, they are more selfassured.”

Parham Bakhti is a business major from Iran who frequently attends meetings at the Communication Cafe. Bakhti said that he has benefitted greatly from it, and that it provides a family atmosphere. He said that they learn from their mistakes and receive constructive criticism without being judged.

“We are all on the same boat, so we don’t feel intimated,” Bakhti said. “We are here to learn from our inaccuracies.

The staff at the Communication Cafe makes us feel at home. We gain valuable knowledge while exploring different cultures.”

According to Bakhti, Americans converse and react to things differently than people do in his country. He said that there are many people in the group from different parts of the world, and they are learning about each other’s ideas and perspectives.

“When I first came to America, I could not understand English,” Bakhti said. “I enjoy being in the group. I feel I am among family. It is all about construction criticism.

Besides the diversity and the ability to learn English,

Bakhti said he came to America for an opportunity to attain an education. He said that education in his country is extremely expensive.

“America is like a melting pot with many people with different ideas, various backgrounds and cultures,” Bakhti said. “In Iran, one class unit is $1,300. I started off by living with relatives to attend Pierce College. I have gained and learned so much. I am extremely grateful.”

Travis said she attained a budget through Equity Funding, whose goals are to promote diversity and instill success for international students.

“I provided Equity Funding

with a proposal to secure funding.

Now, I am in a position to pay my tutors minimum wage and provide free food at the group meetings,” Travis said.

Travis said that it is wonderful to see students excel, and the Communication Cafe is a place that puts them at ease. Most of the participants have more than one class, and she enjoys watching them progress and meet their goals.

“I am taken back from when they first started and to where they are now, especially the older students, because everything is so new to them,” Travis said. “They have had their native language for so many years. Most of my

students are Persian, some are Asian, Hispanic, and some are from Saudi Arabia.”

Travis said she gets a sense of self-satisfaction knowing that she is helping others compete in the global market.

“I think it is just unbelievable when I watch students reach and attain goals, knowing they will have something to contribute to society,” Travis said. “It is a great way for the students to achieve English fluency. It gives students a chance to come out of their comfort zone.”

Jose Herrera/ Roundup

Students gather in the Cafeteria for the Communication Department's Communication Cafe at Pierce College in Woodland Hills, Calif. on Friday, Sept. 15, 2017. The event allows English-learners to practice their verbal skills with other students and provides tutors to manage the hour long session.

Traveling the World

Art lines the walls for students, faculty and community members in Art 3301. The Art Gallery welcomes a new artist exhibition, which runs from Sept. 14 – Oct. 16. The Pierce community can come see the new exhibit by an artist that has traveled the world. Before anyone viewed the art, Renee Petropoulos spoke about her work titled “From Here To There (NOWHERE)” on Thursday, Sept. 14. Petropoulos has a bachelor’s degree in art history, a master’s degree in photography and a Master of Fine Arts in Studio Art from the University of California, Los Angeles. She has traveled the world and exhibited her work internationally. Petropoulos spoke about her background and why she chose to execute her artwork in the way she did. Most of her work comes from personal experience, she said. A spoken word performance titled “Directed Reading: Among Nations” is set to be delivered on Oct. 2 at 2 p.m.

Photos by Samantha Bravo, Rebecca Schulman and Damiesha WIlliams Copy by Randi Love

Above right: Renee Petropoulos speaks to a Pierce community member about her art exhibit “From Here to There (NOWHERE),” in ART 3300 at Pierce College in Woodland Hills, Calif. on Thursday, Sept. 14, 2017.

Photo: Rebecca Schulman

Pierce Community members view the art exhibit From Here To There (NOWHERE) by artist Renee Petropoulous in ART 3301 at Pierece College in Woodland Hills, Calif. on Thursday, Sept. 14, 2017. Photo: Damiesha Williams.

Right: An upclose imagine of a flag made of ribbons woven together by Renee Petropoulos was on display in the Art Gallery at Pierce College in Woodland Hills, Calif. on Tuesday, Sept. 19, 2017. The flag represents two combined countries.

Photo: Samantha Bravo

Above: A Pierce community member takes a photo of an artwork by Renee Petropoulos in ART 3301 at Pierce College in Woodland Hills, Calif. on Thursday, Sept. 14, 2017. Photo: Damiesha Williams

Bottom right: Student Nadia Lukyanova listens to the sandtrack for one of the pieces in Renee Petropoulos’ exhibit “From Here to There (NOWHERE)” in the Art Gallery at Pierce College in Woodland Hills, Calif. on Thursday Sept, 14, 2017. Photo: Rebecca Schulman

Political youth movement

Students branch out to engage and promote activism

ARIELLE

ZOLEZZI Reporter @ArielleZolezzi

The Pierce College Democrats Club, Pierce College Republicans Club and the Young Americans for Liberty, a nonpartisan libertarian club, are branching out from the PoliSci Society to promote activism and to engage students in their respective political affiliations.

“I think the election of Donald Trump has been a real benefit in terms of scaring young people into involvement,” said Denise Robb, a political science teacher and adviser for the Young Americans for Liberty and the Pierce College Democrats. “My students didn’t really see that any of it mattered and now they do, especially with our 11,000 in the Los Angeles Community College District. They are becoming, as they say, ‘woke.’”

These clubs are gearing up for a semester full of events aimed at showing the importance of politics and how essential it is to vote

One major event the groups are planning is the Day of Politics, which will be in the Great Hall on Oct. 19. There will be debates between students with guest moderators Assemblyman Matt Dababneh and State Senator Henry Stern asking questions.

There will also be a panel of guest speakers discussing about electoral reform, gerrymandering and other political actions that can be taken to spark change.

“I’m honestly scared about the direction that America is going in politically,” said Melody Niv co-president of Pierce College Democrats. “We have speakers on both sides of the spectrum that are way too volatile and ignorant, and they are the ones speaking for the majorities.”

Robb said that the clubs are also planning to have elections and host events that focus on the U.S. Constitution. There will also be more debates in addition to the one on Sept.19. Topics for debate have yet to

be announced. “The youth are the future, and the youth are the ones not showing up to vote. Yet, they’re complaining when they don’t get free college or health care,” Niv said. “I hope that Pierce College Democrats will be able to educate students on current political issues and mobilize students to bring change to the issues they care about.”

The clubs are also hoping to create a safe haven for each students’ thoughts and beliefs, making them feel safe to express themselves, educating students about voting and the upcoming congressional election.

“Pierce College Republicans has been founded to ensure diversity of political thought on campus,” said Marina Castellanos, the president of the Pierce College Republicans. “In addition, we also provide an inclusive space for students to share their political opinions in a safe environment.”

According to Tahmineh Dehbozorgi the chapter president of the Young Americans for Liberty, her goals are to bring awareness about constitutional rights and liberties through events, to promote First Amendment rights and host open forum discussions on current topics.

“Our focus as a club is to welcome classical liberals, constitutional conservatives who care for their freedom and their rights,” Dehbozorgi

said.

She said these are ways in which students can join to fight to protect free speech and their rights as citizens. She wants to bring students who are motivated to make

New menu, who dish?

New vendor Pacific Dining provides diverse food options

JENNIFER BELCHER Reporter @jbelcher94

Pierce welcomes Pacific Dining into the cafeteria and into the stomachs of the community, after a food vendor decision was made by the District last semester.

The company recently signed a 10-year-deal with the nine Los Angeles Community Colleges.

Founded in 1989 by Rick McMahon in San Jose, California, Pacific Dining prides themselves as green certified and always looking for new ways to promote sustainability at their current locations.

Brian Robertson, a manager who has worked at Pacific Dining for over 10 years, believes Pierce College was selected for its spacious cafeteria and high

Pierce students have started to take action to help their peers.

Jordan Rice, the Students Against Student Hunger (StASH) president, is working to fight student hunger on campus by providing a food pantry at Pierce. As the first organization on campus that provides these services, StASH has the goal to help all students with hunger.

“We really just want to give you food if you’re hungry, period,”

quality equipment. “Pierce is a really great opportunity for us because it’s such a busy location,” Robertson said. “The cafe was huge and the machinery was in great condition.”

The cafeteria now offers students the choice of Mexican, Italian, and specialty deli sandwiches.

While there is a suggestion box in the cafe for student input regarding new items of the menu, Jaime Cancino, Pierce College Cafe Manager, makes the ultimate decision.

“The chef and myself decide what makes the final cut and what items will go on the menu for each station,” Cancino said. Stephanie Garcia, a new hire from the company, saw both barista and cashier positions on Craig’s List.

Rice said. “We are battling food insecurity.”

Rice said he is hoping to expand the campus organization.

StASH doesn't want to just help the homeless, but also athletes and out-of-state students. Rice said he noticed that there has been an influx of homeless students receiving aid from StASH.

Robin Sawyer, a Pierce counselor, said she is trying to make resources for homeless students easier to access. She is in the process of creating a brochure for homeless

“We were all trained in one day,” Garcia said. “There’s usually two of us working at a time, so it can get crazy busy quick.”

While Garcia is a fan of matcha green teas and chai tea lattes she explained their most popular drinks are vanilla lattes and cappuccinos.

“We’re pretty busy on Monday and it doesn't really slow down until Thursday since there’s not that many people on campus Fridays,” Garcia said.

Cancino and Robertson both explained that there would be a new salad bar station opening in the next few weeks.

“There will be someone behind the counter to assemble the salad for students,” Robertson said.

“I’m hoping it will be a popular station.”

jbelcher.roundupnews@gmail.com

students. She said the brochure would include information such as housing resources.

Sawyer also said she is open to the idea of being a counselor specifically for homeless students, but also stated the fact that there are so many students, that it may not be viable at the moment.

“It’s my passion,” Sawyer said. “I just really want to help.”

Pierce is also putting homeless students’ education into consideration. Vice President of

changes in the future of their country by providing them with the tools and equipment.

“Many people are not happy with the current atmosphere of the government so that the only way we can make changes

ROCIO ARENAS Reporter @rarenas_roundup

For the second year in a row Pierce College earned title of LA’s Best Community College, as voted on by readers of the Daily News. Public relations manager Doreen Clay said that voters are given a blank space in which they fill in their personal choice of best colleges. There are no boxes to check, and people had to write in Los Angeles Pierce College to cast their vote.

“It’s just one more way we can get recognition for the good work that is going on at Pierce,” Clay said. “The fact that community college is an open-access campus means that anyone and everyone is welcome to attend and be a part of this community.”

Dean of Student Engagement Juan Carlos Astorga reflected on Pierce’s award and said, “It’s indicative of the importance of the students that are here.”

To uphold the meaning of the award, ASO President Efren Lopez advices students to participate in campus politics to elicit positive change.

“Students should get involved in their student body government,” Lopez said. “If they want to see something happen, they need to go out and join student groups.”

Astorga agreed and said that students’ voices should be heard to continue to improve the Pierce experience.

“There is significant value in the voice of students, and faculty really needs to hear those voices to know what we can do to make it better for all,” Astorga said.

Lopez said students are a vital part of the college’s identity.

in our society is to start from colleges, from the students and ourselves.”

“What really makes it is the students. You have this college and you have 20,000 students that come here out of the entire city of Los Angeles,” Lopez said.

Student Services Earic DixonPeters said he wants to see homeless students succeed with their academic goals.

Dixon-Peters wants to establish outside connections for homeless students. For that to be successful, he said, student-to-student communication needs to be just as high.

“No one is successful by themselves,” he said. “All of us should be engaged in this conversation.”

For contact and resources information visit: foodclubdrivepiercecollege@gmail.com https://www.facebook.com/StASHclubatPierce/ www.piercecollege.edu/offices/Health_Center https://www.homelessshelterdirectory.org/ Sova-

Jose Herrera/ Roundup Co-president of Pierce Democrats Bella Aguilar-Rosil, president of the PoliSci Society David Serri and president of College Republicans Mariana Castellanos pose for a photo during Club Rush on the Mall at Pierce College in Woodland Hills, Calif on Thursday, Sept. 14.

[ Helping homless students page 3.]

Titus Littlejohn/ Roundup Burger and Fry combo for sale at the Pierce College Cafeteria, just one of many menu items for sale to students and staff. Thursday, Sept. 14, 2017, Woodland Hills, Calif.

“Our focus as a club is to welcome classical liberals, constitutional conservatives who care for their freedom and their rights.”

-Thmineh Dehbozorgi Poli Sci club chapter president

Brahmas game goes south

First game of the post-Sabolic and Hughes era ends in a loss

Despite allowing the Jags offense to score five times, the Brahmas defense was active, just as they have been all season, forcing four turnovers in the game.

The Brahmas hit the road for Chula Vista to take on the Southwestern College Jaguars in a 51-13 loss. Pierce had no answer for the Jags offense, which compiled 536 total yards, led by a three-headed attack at quarterback and 109 yards from running back Isaiah Strayhorn.

“Everybody worked. It was a good week of practice,” assistant coach Lucas Melo said. “We thought we were ready.”

The game was the culmination of an emotional week for players and coaches following the unexpected firings of head coach Jason Sabolic and defensive coordinator Torry Hughes on Monday, Sept. 12.

“It is hard going into a game when you just lost your head coach, and you just had a win,” starting quarterback Jonathon Saavedra said. “Obviously it’s difficult.”

The Brahmas seemingly couldn’t get out of their own way, turning the ball over six times and committing costly penalties.

Twice in the first half, Pierce had touchdowns called back. First for an illegal block by Darius August on a run by Keyshawn Richards and later a pass interference call for a push-off by Joseph Branch. Both drives ended in field goals by Oscar Gonzalez, and the Brahmas went into halftime down 23-6.

Early in the fourth quarter,

Fitness coordinator and strength coach James Sims has been named interim head coach for Pierce football following the firings of former head coach Jason Sabolic and defensive coordinator Torry Hughes last Monday, Sept. 11.

“The kids already know him. He has a good relationship with them,” Athletic Director Moriah Van Norman said. “I think it’s really important at a time like this when you’re going through a transition to make sure the kids at least feel comfortable with the new person.”

Specifics for the firing are

the Brahmas drove down to the Jags five-yard line, looking to cut into the 30-6 deficit at the time. Saavedra took the ball down to the one-yard line on a rush, but fumbled the ball out the back of the endzone.

The Brahmas lone touchdown came on a broken play where quarterback Jhakari Harrison scrambled to his left, and found a open Nic DeLoach in the far-side of the endzone.

Saavedra ended the day 8-23 for 173 yards and an interception while Harrison went 3-7 122 yards with a touchdown and interception.

Interim head coach James Sims was up in the booth for the game.

According to Sims, he was still

unfamiliar with the terminology and would only be able to act as a manager this game, which was easier to do in the booth.

“It was tough to come in as a coach on a Tuesday and get ready to

on the sidelines

play a game Saturday,” Sims said. “I had to sit back and depend on the assistant coaches and players to do what they know how to do.”

Despite the result, Sims was happy with the way they

Sports Editor @fgamino13

The women’s volleyball team will host seven other colleges for the Brahma Invitational on Friday and Saturday in the two-day event.

In the first round, The Brahmas (8-3) face West LA

competed, and is ready to get in on Monday and back to work. According to Sims, they plan to install some new red zone offense, which has been a weak point of the Brahmas attack this season.

at 4:30 p.m. in the South Gym and if they are able to win they will advance to the semifinals on Saturday at 1:30 p.m.

The finals will be held on Saturdays as well later that evening at 6:30 p.m. in the South Gym.

The other colleges participating are Bakersfield College, Gavilan College, Butte College, Santa Barbara

The Brahmas look to get the season back on track this Saturday, Sept. 23, when they host Mt. San Jacinto College at 6 p.m.

jmanes.roundupnews@gmail.com

City College, Grossmont College and Moorpark College. The Brahmas come off victories against Mission College and Mt. San Antonio College in straight sets. Matches will occur at Ken Stanley Court and in the North Gym.

still unknown. According to Sabolic and Hughes, it was due to decorum violations during a victory against Los Angeles Southwest College on Sept. 9., a game in which the Brahmas were flagged for five unsportsmanlike conduct penalties.

“Sims has been good. He’s bringing in the discipline, and that’s what we need,” quarterback Jonathon Saavedra said. “There’s times where the players are getting in chaotic situations, and it leads to messed up penalties.”

Sims comes in with 19 years of head coaching experience, last coaching at Inglewood High School in 2015 and 2016.

“I’ve been in situations where I’ve been fired. I’ve come in

after a coach [was fired],” Sims said. “I understand the emotion for the team.”

Despite the adversity the team has faced this season, Sims believes the season could still have a happy ending.

“We got to mesh together as a family and turn this thing around,” Sims said. “We could write a good story from this if we get it turned around.”

According to assistant coach Lucas Melo, having Sims step in has been a positive.

“Couldn’t ask for anything better,” Melo said. “He came in and let us do what we do and said, ‘We’ll correct things that don’t look very good this week.”

jmanes.roundupnews@gmail.com

JOSHUA MANES Managing Editor @themanesevent

Wide receiver Destra Benoit avoids a tackle Southwestern linebacker Emmanuel Machado attempts in DeVore Stadium in Chula Vista, Calif. on Saturday, Sept. 16, 2017.

JOSHUA MANES

was tough to come in as a coach on a Tuesday and get ready to play a game on Saturday."

Brahmas take two

Women’s volleyball win doubleheader

Falcons soar out of the pit Cerritos College gets upper hand in tight contest

MICKIE SHAW Reporter @MickieShaw77

The Cerritos College Falcons flew high as they got the win against the Brahmas dropping their overall record to 3-2-1.

“They brought it, and they played well, and you got to give them credit. They were in the game until the end,” said Cerritos head coach Ruben Gonzalez.

The Falcons have won the CCCAA State Championship six of the last nine seasons and won the national championship four times.

Despite losing to Cerritos 1-0, Brahmas’ head coach Adolfo Perez was happy with his team’s performance.

Brahmas women’s volleyball improved to 8-3 on the season with a pair of straight set victories on Friday, led by Shari Volpis’ 30 kills in the two games. They started the day with Mission College (25-21, 25-20, 25-19) and finished with Mt. San Antonio College (25-16, 25-21, 25-23).

Pierce dominated the first set against Mt. SAC. They were aggressive defensively and forced Mt. SAC to commit errors throughout the set.

“Serve tough and win the passing battle. We served really well and passed the ball better than we have,” Mardini said.

According to assistant coach Veronika Ban, studying their opponents was one of their strategies.

“We knew that they were good

defensively against our outside hitters. We knew they ran a rotational defense,” Ban said. “Our defense did a really good job of letting our hitters know where to hit, what was open, and our hitters went after it and hit spots we knew were open.”

The second and third sets gave the Brahmas more of a challenge, with Mt. SAC taking a lead during the third set.

Ban knew coming into this game that Mt. SAC was not going to be an easy opponent.

“After the first set, we knew they were going to come out and give us a run for our money,” Ban said. “We made sure everyone stayed focused, kept our composure, and made sure we’re working on our side first.”

Mardini said focusing on the basics helped overcome Mt. SAC’s comeback.

“You have to stick to the same thing. Sometimes you lose momentum because the other team is doing a better job. It’s going to

happen. You just have to respect the process and stick to the game plan,” Mardini said.

Volpis was not concerned about their opponents scoring back to back.

“Volleyball is a big momentum sport, and it’s very likely for the other team to start gaining some momentum, so it doesn’t worry me too much,” Volpis said.

Mardini had praise for Mt. SAC’s team and the challenge they presented.

“It’s a very athletic team, and if they are balanced, we know that they can put a lot of pressure on us. So, our plan was to keep the center off balance, and we did that,” Mardini said.

The team also got the win against Mission College in straight sets in the first game of the doubleheader. The record this season is 8-3. Their next game is on Sept. 22 against West LA at 4:30 p.m.

tthibodaux.roundupnews@gmail.com

“I’m very proud. It was an excellent defensive game against the national champions. It’s a moral victory. I don’t believe in moral victories, but if there is one, it’s this one. The Pierce defenders kept the Cerritos offense scoreless at the end of the first half,” Perez said. “Our defense and our focus was excellent. Great team defense.”

The soccer team were without Adriana Sosa for this game as she missed out with a knee injury as she was replaced by Tylee Low.

“We lost one of our best players which is devastating, but we were excited to play against a five-time state champion,” Perez said.

Brahmas goalkeeper Brianna Jacobo had 11 saves in the game.

Midfielder Jennifer Veliz mentioned that the team performed well despite not scoring.

“I think overall we did well. From the beginning in our warm-

ups. Unfortunately we didn’t put the ball away, but I’m proud. We could have won the game.” Veliz said.

Six minutes into the second half, Brianna Yepez scored to give the Falcons the lead.

Despite the win, Gonzalez was expecting more from his team.

“We didn’t play one of our better games. We came out with the win. You are always happy when you continue to build forward. I expect more from them,” Gonzalez said.

Defender Kerian Neal credits the team with her success on the field.

“They made a big contribution to help me succeed. Playing a national champion can be a humbling experience. I was hoping, honestly, for a tie. I felt we all did well. I’m so proud of

my girls,” Neal said.

By the end of the second half, the Falcons had total ball possession as they kept creating more opportunities. Jacobo saved a huge scoring opportunity to keep the score deficit at one.

Forward Gisell Cruz made the only shot on goal for the Brahmas.

Perez said holding the current national champions to one goal was a victory in itself.

“There is no such thing as an easy game. You have to play the best to be the best. And that is what we are doing,” Perez said.

The next game for the Brahmas is on Friday, Sept. 22 as they travel to Ventura College.

mshaw.roundupnews@gmail.com

Shari Volpis

Women’s volleyball

Brahma of the Week Outside Hitter Sophomore

Culver City

Shari Volpis in the game against Mission College had 12 kills, while against Mt. SAC she had a total of 18.

How do you feel about your performance?

“I’m pretty happy about how I played. For the most part hitting wise. Our opponents had really tall blockers, but I didn’t let them intimidate me.”

How do you want your coaches and teammates to remember you?

“I want them to remember me as a good leader.”

Interview and photo by: Felipe Gamino

• have had pink eye symptoms (e.g. redness, watering/ discharge, or irritation) in at least one eye for no more than the past 3 days

• are interested in taking part in a research study for up to 13 days

• are willing to travel to the study center for appointments.

Randi Love/ Roundup

Ashley Oviedo defends the ball from Jacky Beristain and Erika Garcia at the Pit at Pierce College in Woodland Hills, Calif. on Friday, Sept. 15.

TAYLOR THIBODAUX Reporter @taylorthibbs

Brian Caldera/ Roundup

Cairo Harrel (20) and Shari Volpis (3) blocking the ball on the Ken Stanley Court in the South Gym at Pierce College in Woodland Hills, Calif.

Cindy Godina returns to mentor current goalies on the team Saving goals; now showing the way

The women’s soccer team welcomes a familiar face as former goalie Cindy Godina joins the coaching staff to share her knowledge and experiences out in the field.

Godina played for the Brahmas in 2015, a year in which she was named to the 2015 All Southern California Women’s Soccer Team.

She has returned to the team as a coach to aid head coach Adolfo Perez in the development of this year’s goalkeepers.

Godina brings her 13-year experience as a goalie for domestic clubs, an international club and two colleges. She also brings her experience of coaching high school and abroad for the first time to the college level.

She also brings her years of experience of playing on campus. She has played for club under Perez in Real So Cal when she was 16 and returned

experience as a coach at the college level to further her coaching career.

Perez holds high regards for his new goalkeeper’s coach.

“In my opinion, if not the starter, she should be on the Mexican national team,” Perez said. “She is that good.”

“I am blessed to have her here,” Perez said.

Perez says that, most importantly, Godina brings “credibility” to the team, which he believes makes his current goalkeepers want to improve to achieve what Godina has achieved. The respect

“These games are tough. Since I've already played in these games, I know they’re tough,” Godina said. “These girls work super hard. They put all in when they play. I think it’s going to be a good season.”

Godina has been coached in all tiers

She explained that her coaching style is influenced by all of her coaches through the years, and she utilizes the best of their coaching.

“I can be their friend, but once we’re in practice, that cuts off right there,” Godina said. “That has to change once

but then at practice, it's like get on the ground, dive here, dive there, we do all this stuff, she’s killed us,” Jacobo said. Daisy Armienta, the goalkeeper, said that Godina is a great coach. “She’s very passionate about what she does. She’s very attentive to us.

Reza Razi/Roundup

Cindy Godina poses with soccer balls during practice at The Pit at Pierce College in Woodland Hills, Calif. on Tuesday, Sept. 5, 2017. Godina is the new goalkeeper coach.

MANNY LUISI Reporter @mgluissi

"In the beginning, we're all friends but then at practice it's like get on the ground, dive here, dive there, we do all this stuff, she's killed us."

-Brianna Jacobo Goalkeeper