SPRING 2021
ISSUE 3
THE OMICRONICLE THIS ISSUE: YOU'RE ALWAYS A BROTHER
WELCOMING WELLNESS
THE RADICAL ACT OF SELF CARE
BUILDING THE BRIDGE BETWEEN ALUMNI
Why we should all prioritize taking care of ourselves amidst our college career, and how these PSE brothers are able to do just that.
An op-ed from our editor that discusses how we talk about mental health and its relation to productivity in the current culture.
The Epsilon Omicron chapter cherishes their first class of Alumnis- ICC takes a look at how the gap between gcollege students can be bridged between their former peers
COVER BY RIA TALUKDER
Our Staff. Editor in Chief Ria Talukder Staff Writer Haripriya Jalluri Staff Writer Angela Lee Staff Writer Avery Foster Staff Writer Natalie Jackson Designers Ria Talukder, Avery Foster, Haripriya Jalluri, Angela Lee Contributors Thomas Chapman Chief Design Editor Ria Talukder Contributing Photography Clarence Lilley, Thomas Chapman, Zeta Class
CONTACT rtalukd@iu.edu with any questions. The Omicronicle is published on issuu under pseindiana. epsilonomicron.pse.org
The Omicronicle Produced by Interchapter Communications
THE OMICRONICLE
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HELLO THERE, READER! Welcome to the last issue of the Omicronicle for the 2021-2022 school year. This issue, we once again celebrate the achievements of our brothers, while sharing a proud goodbye with the seniors who will soon start a new chapter in their life At PSE, we believe brotherhood begins with initiation and continues on for life; for this reason, we proudly celebrate our graduating class while we stay hopeful for the rest of their professional careers. Further, we welcome our new family members as the Eta class joins the brotherhood and ends this semester on a high note. Once again, the staff at ICC congratulates our brothers for their resilience; so long for the semester. We can't wait to see you in the fall.
YOURS TRULY, Ria Talukder EDITOR, THE OMICRONICLE 02
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EPSILON OMICRONICLE
from the editor
SPRING 2021
ISSUE 3
The latest news and updates from Pi Sigma Epislon at Indiana Univerisity
THIS ISSUE INCLUDES:
INTRODUCING THE
PSE Introduces Wellness Wednesdays
ETAS: PSE WELCOMES
by Ria Talukder
ITS NEWEST MEMBERS
As the Epsilon Omicron chapter of Pi Sigma Epsilon continues to grow, leadership within the chapter
GOODBYE SENIORS:
continues to evaluate the need for new Director
PSE SAYS GOODBYE TO
the Omicronicle reported on new Wellness Director
positions and nuanced initiatives. In it's last issue,
OUR GRADUATING
Haripriya Jalluri. This semester, Jalluri has
CLASS
staff of ICC.
introduced a new PSE staple while also joining the
Wellness Wednesdays, a concept introduced to PSE
MEMBER SPOTLIGHT:
courtesy of Jalluri, celebrates mental health and
MICHELLE
positivity for the members of PSE weekly. The initiative has reinforced PSE's dedication to mental health and continues to encourage members to take
ALUMNI SPOTLIGHTS:
care of themselves while tackling brotherhood,
HOW THEY CONTINUE
their way.
TO MAKE PSE PROUD
student life, and any personal issues that might come
SPRING 2021
ISSUE 3
Welcome to the Eta Class of PSE The Omicronicle welcomes the Eta class of PSE, who joined just this Spring. The actives look forward to getting to know them and ICC hopes to welcome them further in later issues of the magazine. Welcome home, Etas. We can't wait to see what you do in the future, in and out of Pi Sigma Epsilon.
THE ETA CLASS OF PI SIGMA EPSILON PHOTO FROM PSE_IU ON INSTAGRAM
Director Elections take place for the Fall semester. by Ria Talukder As per schedule, Pi Sigma Epsilon completed their elections for Fall 2021 director positions in the last few
weeks
of
April.
Interested
candidates
were
prompted to film videos to supplement their intent forms for the position, detailing their goals, ideas, and
reasoning
behind
their
bid
for
leadership.
Brothers were then encouraged to watch these videos before, in democratic fashion, voting as active agents in deciding who they trusted to serve as leaders for the chapter. The various committees Directors could serve under include Professional Development, Public Relations, Human Resources, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, Finance, Marketing, Administration, and Recruitment, Each role p[ays an important part in the behind the scenes machine that keeps PSE running. Inter-chapter communications can't wait to welcome PSE's newest directors and looks forward to introduce them in the following issue.
The Post Graduates : our current alumni
ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT HOW
THEY
CONTINUE
TO
EMBODY
THE
PI
SIGMA
EPSILON
CELEBRATING OUR GRADUATES by Angela Yi Ting Lee Hsiao In PSE, brotherhood doesn't stop once you've completed your four years at Indiana University. ICC catches up with our more recent grads to share their current accomplishments, keeping in touch with our brothers out in the professional world
SPIRIT
Major(s): Accounting and International Business Minor: Spanish Current Employment: Studying Master's of Science in Accounting with Data and Analytics May 2021 Starting PwC in summer 2021 in Assurance
CONTACT INFORMATION: Emilia.pellegrino4@gmail.com (331) 457-1630
Fun fact: She studied abroad in Australia for X272 and Sevilla, Spain for a semester. In her studied abroad program she took all her business classes in Spanish. Favorite memory about PSE: She loved hiking to the fire tower with PSE brothers during the fall. She also loved playing on the intramural teams in basketball, volleyball, and flag football, and getting to know brothers she didn't know well. How did IU and PSE help you prepare for your career? “I felt so motivated to apply to internships and leadership conferences as early as sophomore year from ambitious PSE members and Kelley students around me. Hearing their advice and what they had accomplished so far pushed me to devote more time into figuring out what career I wanted in accounting. I saw PSE brothers all the time at career fairs and information sessions, and I felt comfortable knowing they were going through the same stress and pressure as I was.” What is something unexpected that you experienced once you started your job? “The first semester of my MSADA program, I was attending my classes remotely from my home in a suburb of Chicago. Throughout that time, I realized how strongly I valued attending class in person, which I had taken for granted during my undergraduate years. Luckily, my program has a few in person classes and some hybrid, so I came back to Bloomington for the second semester. I come to the graduate side of Kelley three times a week, and now I appreciate the learning process in person so much more than I ever did.”
MICHELLE
Reach out to older brothers that have similar interests as you, whether that's personal interests or professional. You never know what advice or friendship could come out of it!
STEVEN MEYERS/EMILIA PELLEGRINO/GEORGIA BANOV
Major(s): Finance and Business Analytics Current Employment: Walgreens Finance Development Program Analyst
CONTACT INFORMATION: stevenmeyers44@gmail.com (914) 391-0224
Fun fact: He has a twin brother that lives in South Dakota. Favorite memory about PSE: “There are so many amazing memories to choose from, but one of my favorites is when we welcome new members into the fraternity. It was always so exciting to see the chapter grow with the top talent that we have gotten. I still remember many of the chapter's leaders today from when they first joined PSE and am overjoyed to see all the great things they have accomplished.”. How did IU and PSE help you prepare for your career? “Meeting and networking with coworkers is very important to provide you with success at your job and in future roles. PSE really helped me prepare for this with New Member Interviews. They are a great way to get to know your brothers better and they will provide you with the skills needed to have conversations with new people at work.” What is something unexpected that you experienced once you started your job? “I expected to have limited responsibilities being in my first role out of college, but I was pleasantly surprised when seeing what I would be accountable for. My company did a good job training me, and I feel a sense of purpose everyday knowing how important my work is for the business.”
RISHIKA SINGH/STEVEN MEYERS/MEGGIE FURLONG/HALEY SKIKO
Our chapter of PSE is like a mini business. There are several different areas that we operate in, including finance, marketing, management, HR, consulting, and more. While our functions are not a perfect comparison to working in these areas for large businesses, they are still similar. Getting involved in a committee or director position that you are intrigued by will help you try to see how interested you would be working in that area in the future. Think of it as a semi-internship. PSE can help you find out what you are passionate about!
Major(s): Operations Management, Marketing, and International Business Current Employment: American Airlines Commodity Manager
CONTACT INFORMATION: tyler3699@me.com
Fun fact: He has been to over 25 countries! Favorite memory about PSE: He enjoyed leading chapter meetings for 2 years and being able to look up at all the smiling faces and the organization that means so much to him. How did IU and PSE help you prepare for your career? “PSE gave me so many practical leadership examples to draw from when it comes to the workplace. I didn't always realize but everything is a learning experience.” What is something unexpected that you experienced once you started your job? “Be careful of those who you vent to, not everyone is your friend.”
Don't be afraid to fail. You have to take risks in order to succeed. My team and I didn't know if PSE would even be successful, but we tried anyway and look where we are now!
SAM KENNEDY/HANNAH MILLER/TYLER MILLER
FORMER PRESIDENTS OF PI SIGMA EPSILON
Major(s): Accounting, Finance, and Tech management Current Employment: KPMG Audit Associate
Fun fact: She studied abroad in France. Favorite memory about PSE: She enjoys all the friendships she has formed in PSE. How did IU and PSE help you prepare for your career? “Helped me build networking skills and my leadership skills from my position helped me build my task management skills which have been really useful.” What is something unexpected that you experienced once you started your job? “How many opportunities there were to get involved in things other than work (community service, social events, etc.)”
Get as involved as possible it will make your experience the best it can be. CONTACT INFORMATION: mmauer598@gmail.com
Major(s): Accounting, Finance, and Tech management Current Employment: PwC Technology Consultant
Fun fact: She studied abroad in Vienna. Favorite memory about PSE: The flag football team she was part of! How did IU and PSE help you prepare for your career? “The resume workshops and professional development events were really helpful” What is something unexpected that you experienced once you started your job? “Starting virtually was unexpected, I had to make some adjustments to make my work from home setup a more productive space”
Leverage the Kelley Career Center- they’re very helpful with interview prep! CONTACT INFORMATION: melissaoreilly2@gmail.com
BRIDGING THE GAP BETWEEN
ALUMNI AND THE CHAPTER By Angela Lee Alumni serve many valuable roles, such as helping to build and grow our chapter, as well as being a resource that provides a meaningful relationship over time. In Spring 2020, Pi Sigma Epsilon voted to introduce Saloni Jain as the new Director of Alumni Affair, where she has been holding the position since. The new leadership position was intended to play an active role with the first graduating class of the Epsilon Omicron chapter. It aspires to incorporate different initiatives and programs focused on the alumni, while also recognizing their experiences and skills in their areas of expertise to mentor underclassmen. “It's been good. I'm really excited. I get to keep those connections going even after the Alumni left because when I joined PSE, they were leading the organization” Saloni Jain, current Director of Alumni said. “It feels really good to just be able to talk to them, like on a regular basis, and just like catch up. So yeah, I really like my role. It's exciting.”
According to Jain, her first semester holding the position was not much work considering that it was just starting out with the first graduating class. She gathered the contact information of the soon-tograduate students and put together an information sheet so that in the future people would be able to reach out to Alumni if needed. Next, Jain recalls that the following semesters have been more fun since she has been doing a lot of things just as the graduates have become Alumni.
It's been good. I'm really excited. I get to keep those connections going even after the Alumni left...
“I did a question and answer session with the alumni to kind of engage the chapter and the alumni. I also implemented alumni interviews as a part of New Member Ed. So that's really cool, because it gives the new members a way to meet the alumni and also gives the alumni a way to stay connected with the chapter even after leaving college,” Jain said. “I've been doing a lot more stuff, which is really fun. We started with like, zero alumni stuff. Now we have takeovers, panels, and interviews.” As the only member that has held this position, Jain has accomplished many things in her role. She has seen the growth of the chapter as well as the impact that the Alumni has had in the rest of the brothers. “I've enjoyed everything that I've done, but I think my favorite moment is just seeing how the alumni can help our underclassmen
n. Because I feel like when I was a freshman, it was really scary to like go to career fairs and, you know, get out there and network. So my favorite part about it would probably be the alumni interviews because of that, because I feel like as an underclassmen you're told like go network, go to career fairs, do all this. But it is intimidating. I feel like with the alumni interviews, it gives them a segue to meet an industry professional but also on a more casual basis and somebody that's been in their shoes like, not long ago,” Jain explains. “ The feedback that I've been getting, it's been really nice to see that the things that I'm implementing are actually helpful and they're enjoying it.”
I think my favorite moment is just seeing how the alumni can help our underclassmen [...] it gives them a segue to meet an industry professional but also on a more casual basis
By holding a new position Jain also had to navigate through some challenges to become a better leader. She recalls her biggest challenge was to reach out to some Alumni she had never spoken to before. However, Jain highlights she doesn’t see that as a challenge anymore, and that the Alumni Ambassadors (Steven Meyers, Ally Nayak, Georgia Banov, Sam Kennedy, Emilia Pellegrino, and Elizabeth Gillingham) are extremely supportive and involved. “I've definitely gotten to talk to more of them. I've also built stronger relationships with the ones that I knew coming in. I mean, there's still some that I haven't talked to as much just because they're busy with work and school and things like that. But I've definitely gotten to know more. And now I know that if I need any advice, there's like four or five that I can go to at any time,” Jain said. “It's also nice that alumni are sending me things to send to the chapter. [For example], Ally just sent me something [about] a six week summer experience. That's really nice that some of them are very active in trying to find opportunities for our members, because they don't have that responsibility. They are willing to help if anybody needs it. Like they're so happy to talk to anybody which is great.” Despite the current challenges the pandemic has brought with the online setting and the engagement, Jain is thrilled about the things she has accomplished with her creativity. “I love this position. I don't want to let go. But at some point, I'm going to have. I've just become attached to it,” Jain said. “For future members applying for the position, focus on building relationships and connections. And I'll be there to help if anybody needs it.”
For future members applying for the position, focus on building relationships and connections. And I'll be there to help if anybody needs it.
SALONI JAIN DIRECTOR OF ALUMNI AFFAIRS
They're just getting s tarted: our current brothers
ZETAS IN LEADERSHIP POSITIONS A CONTINUATION OF WELCOME TO THE ZETAS BY ANGELA LEE
During Fall 2020, the Epsilon Omicron chapter welcomed the Zeta members as the first class navigating through recruitment in an online environment. Just a few short months later, and the Zeta brothers have not let the pandemic halt their progress; many have transitioned into leadership positions within the fraternity. As Pi Sigma Epsilon continues to provide opportunities for professional and social development, the Omnicronicle staff decided to continue the journey with the Zeta class and highlight their unique experience within now serving as directors.
MEGAN HAYNES Director of Community Service
Megan Haynes is currently a sophomore at Indiana University serving the position of Director of Community Service at Pi Sigma Epsilon. Since high school, Haynes has been involved in Philanthropy groups and highlights how passionate she is about giving back to the community.
However, due to the pandemic they have had to adapt to low involvement and also change some opportunities like Wheeler Mission. “It's been difficult sometimes getting people involved and wanting to go because everybody has a busy schedule. It's just hard to tell them that we didn't have enough volunteers sign up type of thing, ” said Haynes.
“I know PSE has worked with The Wheeler mission and My Sisters Closet. But I really wanted to start working with a food bank and food pantry this semester because I'm really passionate about that and I feel like I haven't been able to get involved in anything like community service related yet here at IU. And so I felt like joining PSE and then becoming the director of Community Service was a good way to do that.”
Even through the difficulties, Haynes expects to at least have 80-90% of our chapter get involved in community service.
She remembers the transition to director was “pretty easy” with the help of Meggie. They met a few times over winter break and set goals for the semester.
” I W A N T P E O P L E T O F E E L L I KE T H E Y ' V E D O N E S O M E G O O D I N OUR COMMUNITY. YOU KNOW, THE B L O O M I N G T O N C O M M U N I T Y H AS G I V E N U S S O M U C H . A N D S O I FEEL L I K E I T ' S A L W A Y S I M P O R T A N T TO GIVE BACK TO THAT."
ANDREW SWENSON Director of Social Media
Andrew Swenson is a sophomore at Indiana University currently working as the Director of Social Media at Pi Sigma Epsilon. Swenson previously held the fundraising officer position for the Zeta class, giving him the opportunity to challenge himself as a leader before becoming the director of social media. “I've definitely seen a lot of potential for leadership opportunities in PSE since joining,” commented Swenson. “It's been definitely a cool opportunity to lead already, like have two different leadership positions within one and a half semesters.” Despite being highly involved in social media with his other Instagram account of over 60,000 followers, he describes his transition as a “learning curve”. Swenson had to switch from posting about sports, to a more keen professional design. “I'm always kind of looking to get more experience with social media in different fields. Because in the future, I want to have that background, I want to eventually start my own business” says Swenson. “Getting that kind of more experience and just learning different elements of it was part of the reason that I really wanted to get the position.”
From challenging himself to learning a completely different style of editing, Swenson wishes to continue the success that PSE has accomplished in the past. “One of the things that PSE has been awarded last year was that it was top PSE social media for our chapter”, Swenson said.
“ T H A T ' S L I K E M Y M A I N G O A L TO C O N T I N U E T O H A V E T H A T S UCCESS A N D B E N A T I O N A L L Y R E C O GNIZED.” Additionally, Swenson explains how he wishes there was more “interconnection between different people as the director of social media”. Suggesting that it could be beneficial to be part of a board or a chat where he can discuss plans and know what is happening in different areas of PSE. As a final reminder, Swenson says that even if it can be awkward to run for a director position “It doesn’t hurt to run”. He highlights that “even if you feel embarrassed one minute or two minutes afterwards, it's not going to be the end of the world, and the potential you could get from it could really help expand your connections, [and help you] develop your skills.”
HARIPRIYA JALLURI Director of Wellness
Haripriya Jalluri is currently a freshman at Indiana University leading the new position of Director of Wellness at Pi Sigma Epsilon. Jalluri was actually the member that suggested this position to be created and talked to the executive board to make it happen. After her involvement with the Kelley’s mental health task force, she noticed that there were none-business fraternity delegates in the force. With her passion about mental health and her opinion about the importance of personal wellness affecting relationships and friendships, Jalluri decided to voice her idea. “I decided I would contact both Hannah and Michelle to kind of see what their thoughts were about this position. And we set up a meeting, we talked about it, we talked a little over winter break about it. Then they talked with exec, they updated me that they were going to be doing more interviews with people in the fraternities to see who was interested in the position, just so that the most qualified candidate would have such a position, “ Jalluri confesses.
“I H A N D S D O W N W A S J U S T L I K E , YES , L I K E , Y O U D O N ' T N E E D T O J U S T HAN D M E A P O S I T I O N . I W A N T SOM E O N E Q U A L I F I E D T O H A V E T H I S POS I T I O N . ”
Similar to other members holding leadership positions, Jalluri comments on the challenges that she has encountered with engagement due to the position just starting and being online. However, she has found other ways to contribute with wellness working with the Social committee, ICC committee, HR, Social media, and PD. Besides overcoming some obstacles, Jalluri is definitely passionate about the position and recalls one of her favorite moments so far. “The first day when I announced that we were doing the wellness challenges. I could see, like all the people, it was in gallery view for me, so I see everyone with their cameras on and their reaction to the wellness boards, like no one was like, Oh, this is such a dumb idea. like everyone's reactions were so genuine. They were like, Oh, this is really cool. Like I saw people's faces light up and looking at the board,” Jalluri comments. “That little validation that I had chosen the right thing to bring to PSE as my first big thing. It was just like a humbling validating thing,”
starting a new position can be challenging, especially navigating through it in a new environment. However, Jalluri highlights that it is rewarding when brothers share their thoughts on the initiatives implemented. “It's just cool to see that the impact I wanted it to have is happening for certain people. And I love when people share that with me, like, Oh, I was able to eat three meals because it was on this thing. Or oh I'm gonna do this,” Jalluri comments excited. “I think it's harder online to see the impact that our positions have. But when people tell you that, it's nice to hear.” Exciting events are coming along the way for the chapter, and Jalluri is excited to share what she has been working on. In the meantime, she gives valuable advice for all future members that want to pursue a leadership position and are afraid to try.
“ W E A R E A F A M I L Y , W E A R E SUCH A S U P P O R T I V E C O M M U N I T Y , I NEVER T H O U G H T I W O U L D E N D U P AT A BIG S C H O O L , L I K E I U , S O I R E A LLY DID I M M E D I A T E L Y S E E K O U T A SMALLER C O M M U N I T Y W I T H I N S U C H A LARGE C O M M U N I T Y . A N D I T H I N K ALL OF US L A N D E D , V E R Y L U C K I L Y , O N OUR TWO FEET, IN PSE. “We're surrounded by some of the most supportive and inspiring people that I have the pleasure of knowing. So if someone is interested, and has an idea for a position, whether it be small or big, or even just an event, go for it, just reach out to whoever you think it was appropriate. In your interviews with active members, bring it up, see how they react. That's what I did with Meggie. And if it's [to the] Vice President of HR, or straight up to the President, do it, don't be afraid to reach out because we're all in the same situation as college students. And even though someone might have the title of President. It's not like, fear tactic. You shouldn't be afraid to speak with, whether that be Michelle or Hannah, or whoever the next president is. Do it.”
KEDAR RAM Director of Professional Development
Kedar Ram is currently a freshman at Indiana University holding the position of Director of Professional Development at Pi Sigma Epsilon. Ram ran for a couple leadership positions and wanted to showcase his passion for the business fraternity since the beginning. “This is always something I'm super passionate about, like the fraternity as a whole.I've always wanted to be in positions of leadership here. I find it really fun. I find it really nice to connect with other people,” Ram confesses. “I think I mean, a lot of people know this. My pledge class was one that did not get as close as other classes because it was the first semester online itself. And so instead of getting close to other people in my class, I got close to upperclassmen in PSE which it's different, but it’s fine” Ram highlights the positive out of a hard online semester. Additionally, Ram speaks highly about Aahan Mehra (VP of Professional Development) and how it has been a pleasure to work by his side describing it as an “unbeatable opportunity”. “I think like anyone, any freshman who was given this opportunity would really like it because it's like having a mentor, even though he's doing consulting and I'm not doing consulting,” Ram comments.
Ram has been in the business fraternity for only one semester and he is already involved in many positions across the chapter. “I'm like in four things in PSE already and that's crazy to think about. But yeah, I would just say make sure you put yourself out there, make sure you connect with as many people as possible, get yourself involved,” Ram says. With the challenges navigating online, Ram gives advice to future members that want to pursue a leadership position and be part of the Pi Sigma Epsilon family. “I would say make an effort to get close with your class. It's something that will definitely impact you a lot. And also definitely running for [a] leadership [position] ... as long as you make an effort to be like there, like make an effort to want to be in a position of leadership, you'll definitely get it,” Ram highlights.
“ A N Y O N E I S W I L L I N G T O H ELP YOU A T T H E E N D O F T H E D A Y , S O, YEAH, T H A T ' S I T . J U S T M A K E SU R E YOU K N O W W H A T Y O U W A N T T O DO AND P S E W I L L B E T H E R E T O H E L P YOU.”
STAYING SOCIAL Relationships Enforce Brotherhood: A look back at this semester
Paoli P M o v i e ne a k s ight th Tuesda y... Fiel soon!! d day :) Chapter on Sunday Amethy st chef
THE RADICAL ACT OF SELF CARE
Personal
On the current state of America's work obsession and a conversation we need to have about mental health-Ria Talukder shares another personal story as ICC highlights mental welfare and the importance of loving yourself- despite how radical it may seem. By Ria Talukder
It was 6 in the morning when I realized that I was not okay. Sitting in the dark of my bedroom, face lit only by the painful glare of my laptop display, I had just heard the noises of my mom waking up to feed the dogs and get ready for work. I looked at my surroundings. There were about two Cliff bar wrappers, a bowl of Shin Ramen, way too many water bottles, and papers on papers forming almost a halo around me. My work uniform lay on a shapeless pile in the corner of my room, where I’d thrown it just yesterday after a late shift waitressing. It dawned on me that for two days straight I had been working, whether at my job, for school, Kelley clubs, or my internship, without food or sleep. At only 21 years old, I had turned into something I told myself I was way too carefree and wild to ever become- a workaholic. It sounds dramatic. It probably is, as feelings usually are. Even in that moment, I was immediately embarrassed to acknowledge that I ‘wasn’t okay’ anymore because-well, who did I think was? The mentally anguished lead of a Netflix series? This, however, paints a problem all of us-as students at a competitive, nationally recognized business school-aren’t too keen on recognizing. We don’t take our own struggles seriously.
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THE OMICRONICLE
After what seemed like a routine cycle of getting sick, losing weight, falling asleep mid conversation on one hand and being unable to rest my racing mind on the other, I felt simultaneously manic and defeated at the end of this semester. To everybody else, it seemed obvious- my friends chanted a mantra at me repeatedly: “Stop. Overworking. Yourself.” It was the most direct solution and the one I refused to accept. In my eyes, I wasn’t overworking myself. I was doing exactly what needed to be done if I wanted to be a competitive, employable professional, just like my peers. I was 16 when I eagerly applied for my first job, excited at the prospect of ‘working’. At 18, I graduated as an Honors student with a large collection of leadership titles (that came only after I committed to staying at school until 2 in the morning), and a handful of things I deemed to be ‘brag-worthy’ resume items.
Story
By 20, I was interning for a new company as a consultant for minority owned businesses, still working part-time, taking a full course load, publishing this magazine, and serving as President for the oldest organization at the Kelley Institute for Social Impact. Objectively, I was succeeding, but it didn’t matter. It wasn’t enough. I pushed myself harder and harder because there was always another student who was doing better than me, who had more money than me, who was doing everything I should be doing if I wanted to be worth anything. This mentality swallowed me whole like a monster until I couldn’t even recognize myself. My best friend asked me what I wanted to do for my birthday amidst all of this self-angst. I wasn’t able to answer her question. I couldn’t remember the last time I’d gone out or hung out with my friends and I couldn’t think of anything I wanted to do because-well, when was the last time I had to think about what I wanted to do over what I needed to do? Realizing this alone made me spiral. I had prided myself on being an individual, someone who had a thirst for life, and coming face to face with my own abandonment of that freedom horrified me. You’re only 21!! I thought to myself. How could you have sold your soul and turned into a shell? Is it all even going to be worth it? When you sacrificed your happiness for work and you still won’t be able to find a job? What will be left? Not a personality, that’s for sure! Just a sad sack of bones with a degree. I have never felt more powerless as I have this past semester. Just admitting this feels like an over exaggeration, and yet I know I’m not the only one- there’s so many of us, within PSE or Kelley or IU as a whole, who at some point or the other felt exhausted, depleted, or even hopeless by the work-workwork lifestyle thrusted upon us through the sum of societal, cultural, and internalized pressures to succeed as a career individual. We are defined by our accomplishments as ‘workers’ in this society. All around me, I see peers struggling to stay
“Remember that you are never as alone as you think you are- and your happiness matters."
awake on 7:45 zoom calls, sacrificing their personal happiness at the cost of academic and professional success. One student at IU even told me she’d cancelled her flight to her sister’s wedding in China because the process would ‘affect her degree progress and her family couldn’t afford that’. There’s a tendency to trivialize one’s pain. I believe this is the seed that grows into the larger issue of young people burning themselves out. Most of us are taught as early as middle school that our ability to be seen as ‘successful’ would determine our quality of life-we’re asked about our dream jobs, dream colleges, dream homes, all so early on. Seemingly harmless, this cultural focus on dreaming of labor has created an environment where young people have felt the weight of the future at younger and younger ages. Haripriya Jalluri, an ICC member and Wellness Director, has made it a point to talk about mental health within our business fraternity.
Her ideas and goals inspired me to write this piece and to encourage all of us to re-examine how we talk about mental health. With more and more of us prioritizing doing what we can to ensure our future stability, we forget to consider the present. Taking care of yourself is a radical act in an environment that subtly encourages you to do the opposite. It’s time to change how we talk about success and recognize the effects our work obsession has had on the mental health of young people. We must transform the boundaries between our work and personal lives, fight for more vacation days, remove the guilt that comes with admitting that sometimes, you just can’t do it anymore. It’s okay to say no to taking on that extra responsibility in your group project. It’s okay to hang out with your friends even if it feels like you should be doing anything but. If work is important, then so is making sure there’s still a happy person behind the work that’s being created. You don’t always need to be at your 100% as long as you are in an environment that encourages you to be honest and transparent about how you are feeling- if you’re not in that environment where you feel listened to, then take the time to listen to yourself. Prioritizing your mental and physical health needs should stop falling to the bottom of your to do list- I encourage you to push it to the top. I end this on a positive note. Finding yourself can often motivate you to be productive in a way that feels more honest than doing things just for the sake of getting them done. Perhaps this rings hypocritical after I waxed agonizing poetry to you about how I spent an entire semester doing anything but- but my brightest moments were when I let myself enjoy my life, even in ways as subtle as turning my laptop off and sitting outside to enjoy the breeze. My friends reminded me that even when I had forgotten, they had not lost sight of who I was. Remember that you are never as alone as you think you are- and your happiness matters.
member spotlight
this issue: haley skiko
PHOTO
CREDIT:
THOMAS
CHAPMAN
WHO WE ARE: HALEY DIVE ONE
INTO
THE
MEMBER
LIVES
AND
OUTSIDE
OF
PURSUITS
OF
PSE.
FORWARD BY RIA TALUKDER
In it's sophomore issue, the Inter-chapter Communications Committee shined a spotlight on PSE brother Clarence Lilley and his pursuits outside of the chapter. The article aimed to paint a holistic picture of Clarence and celebrate the diverse backgrounds and interests a brother can come from. ICC strives to embody our chapter's principles in print format, including our goals to encourage equity, diversity, and inclusion. As we moved forward, a no brainer decision seemed to stand before us- the member spotlight was a segment we wanted to continue for the Omicronicle's foreseeable future. It is an excellent way to identify what makes each brother so great; their individual nature that only compliments a commitment to brotherhood. With that special something they bring to the table, the community at the Epsilon Omicron chapter celebrates its members for their skills and hobbies.
This issue, The Omicronicle sits down with Haley Skiko, a respected and loved member of our community. We chat with her about her interests, passions, and what it is about PSE that just makes her tick. I implore you to read further and get to know the strong woman that stands amongst your peers- the spotlight doesn't regret shining on her one bit.
WHAT MAKES HALEY SKIKO TICK
THE OMICRONICLE
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ft haley skiko
from the background to the foreground: MICHELLE SCANAMEO by Har ipr iya J allur i
Following elections in the fall semester, the Epsilon Omicron chapter of PSE welcomed a new executive board with Michelle Scanameo leading the board as President. Scanameo is a junior from Muncie, Indiana pursing a degree in management and entrepreneurship. As a member of PSE’s Gamma class, Scanameo joined PSE in the spring of her freshman year. “I knew I wanted to be a part of an organization that was high commitment,” Scanameo said when asked why she chose to join PSE. With certain clubs , Scanameo noticed a come and go environment where members were not required to have strong commitments to the organization. This was something Scanameo quickly realized she did not want and, instead, she favored the idea of “a solid group that was going to be there.”
Initially, Scanameo planned to pursue nursing before settling on business. She felt as if she lacked the business skills other freshman in college had due to her last-minute switch to business. Realizing she wanted to join a high commitment organization that had a harmonious combination of professional and social aspects, Scanameo decided to join a business fraternity. Scanameo’s path to PSE was written in fate. After making the decision to pursue a business fraternity, Scanameo looked at the recruitment schedule and remembered having previously spoken with PSE, whose first recruitment event of the season happened to be the next night. Although she did not know anyone and was extremely nervous, Scanameo
Michelle Scanameo (right) and Hannah Miller (left) volunteer at Wheeler Mission
Take a peek into a day
in the life of budding
artist Stella Young,
and how she improves
her craft
"I work for the people" -Michelle Scanameo THE OMICRONICLE
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decided to attend the recruitment event. The first PSE brother she spoke with was the then President, Sam Kennedy. She remembers being amazed at how as a potential new member who knew no one in PSE, she ended up having a long conversation with the President. “It felt so casual, he was so invested in it and interested in learning more about me. It was so authentic,” Scanameo said. This interaction, ultimately, made the decision for Scanameo that PSE was the business fraternity for her, “I want to be in PSE and so here I am now!” This recruitment event was also Kennedy’s first event as President, and he recalls worrying if people would show up to the event and if they would be a good fit for PSE. “As soon as I talked to Michelle, those fears were put to rest,” Kennedy said, “To me, it was pretty much immediately obvious that she would make a great brother. I thought if we had gotten someone like Michelle to come to our event, we were doing something right.” Throughout her freshman year, Scanameo tried out other campus organizations. A lover of running, Scanameo was training for a marathon at the time and heard of run club through her older sister. “I joined run club at IU and was just floating in and out of other organizations,” Scanameo said, “just kind of trying to find my place.” But the only organization that stuck was Run Club, where she met fellow PSE brother Meggie Furlong. “Once I found PSE in the Spring,” Scanameo explained, “I really spent a lot of time focusing on that.” In her sophomore year, Scanameo served as the fundraising chair for Run Club, which allowed her to connect with the Bloomington community outside of IU. “I always feel like I like to give 100% of myself in everything that I’m doing,” Scanameo said and because of that, she decided to dedicate herself to and invest her time in PSE and Run Club. As an active brother in PSE, Scanameo got involved in the chapter right away. In the fall of 2019, she joined Social Committee and Recruitment Advisory Board (RAB), which were the only two committees at the time and she “got to see how the chapter works on the very, very, basic inside levels.” Her path in PSE then took Scanameo to the executive board, where she served as the Vice President of Administration for 2020. Running for the position was not something Scanameo planned to do, but she was highly encouraged and decided to branch out of her comfort zone. After “lots of unexpected twists and turns,” as Scanameo describes it, she became President. Scanameo went back and forth trying to decide whether she should run for President. But in October 2020, she made her final decision.
“I know that the worst thing that happens is I put myself out there and I don’t get it,” Scanameo said, “And regardless, someone is going to do a really great job with it.” Like her previous positions as a committee member and as VP of Administration, Scanameo values seeing the other side of how the chapter functions. “I know that I care about it enough that I want to make a difference and be able to leave an impact on it in whatever way I can,” Scanameo said that this ideology motivated her to officially run for President. In her role as VP of Administration, Scanameo only oversaw one person, the Director of Conventions Michael Josephson. Scanameo was hands off with overseeing Josephson and all she needed to do was check in with him. The two also worked together for the length of Scanameo’s term, which typically does not occur as Director positions are semester based. Her previous role also entailed filling out and submitting reports, “it was such a strict schedule,” Scanameo explains, “the job is very cut and dry.” As President, however, Scanameo has a higher responsibility with managing people and there is more hands on involvement with making sure the chapter functions properly.
“I went from a backstage leadership role where people did not see what I was doing to literally the head of the organization,” Scanameo said, “that shift has been very interesting for me and has taught me to be versatile in what I’m doing, how I’m communicating, and how I can reach all the people who are in our chapter and not just the people who are the forefront.” Leading an organization of more than 90 active members is not easy, but it can especially be challenging during a pandemic. “Faced with yet another difficult semester, where classes are still virtual and zoom fatigue is affecting many students, Michelle has put in the work to overcome these obstacles,” Hannah Miller, Scanameo’s predecessor, noted. As a management major, Scanameo is constantly learning about how she can be a better leader in her classes. “The biggest thing with managing people is understanding how everyone works and knowing that not everyone works the same,” Scanameo said. Through her organizational development class, Scanameo has been able to identify how our chapter functions, what motivates our members, and what will work for a chapter. As President, understanding this about an organization can be pivotal in leading the chapter forward. Scanameo’s human resources class has also served beneficial, which focuses more on learning how each individual on a team functions. “What’s going to motivate you to do your work and to do really well, how can I connect with you and under you, knowing your needs, your work style, and how you want to develop as a leader,” Scanameo said. While she may be the face of the organization, Scanameo is not a distanced leader, but the exact opposite. Scanameo strives to learn about and understand the individuals who make up this chapter because, as she says, “people are the heart of an organization!” Being President of PSE is not a cut and dry job, the responsibilities are constantly in flux and there is always something new to plan. Scanameo’s primary role is running chapter and executive meetings, which flow together and allow her to check in with everyone. Those meetings occur once weekly, but aside from that, Scanameo is working on one thing or another relating to PSE daily. Some days it might just be a quick update meeting and others it may be meeting after meeting. Through this job, Scanameo has realized she is more of a phone call person to get updates or discuss upcoming projects. “It kind of depends on the day, but there is definitely something to do every day,” Scanameo said about her daily responsibilities, “there is always something new to check on, so it keeps things interesting and exciting.” When it comes to goals for her Presidency, Scanameo has a few. The main one is to provide more leadership opportunities and ways for members to get involved. “As we have continued to grow, it can be easy to let people slip through the cracks,” Scanameo said, “when I joined, I was so easily able to get involved in things and I want it to be that way.” Even if it is not the creation of more direct and visible leadership positions, Scanameo wants to provide people opportunities to get involved with PSE by joining committees or pursuing creative projects that bring the organization together, like the Mic’d Up Podcast or planning social events. Ultimately, Scanameo wants “to offer more of those smaller leadership roles where people can really make an impact on the organization without having to be that top dog leader.” Another goal she has is to expand our chapter reach with projects and collaborate with other chapters of PSE. “We have been so focused on our chapter,” Scanameo said, “but we have a network of all these other incredible chapters across the country.”
Pi Sigma Epsilon B
rothers ft. Michelle
Prior to the pandemic, our chapter just got its footing and figured out to function, but then they we had to take a step back to focus on chapter operations during 2020. As President, Scanameo wants to have more direct collaboration and connection with other PSE chapters to network, support, and help each other. This precedent is one she wants to stick with our chapter of PSE and to be carried on by future presidents of our chapter. The pandemic has helped to facilitate this interaction with the other chapters, “now we are seeing each other as really useful tools for promoting things and being able to connect, and kind of compete,” Scanameo said, “friendly competition always boosts the spirit a little bit.” The final big goal Scanameo has is to improve our chapter’s reach with diversity, equity, and inclusion. Bias training hosted with Kelly Higgins and organized by the Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Rishika Singh has been the first step at this. This goal also ties in on a national level as we can “plan different events and things to make people aware of how their words and actions can impact others,” Scanameo explained, “that is something I think we can continue to grow and develop as a chapter.” “I look forward to seeing Michelle continue as a strong and dedicated leader throughout her term, pushing our chapter to new levels in the areas of diversity and inclusion initiatives, marketing and sales projects, finding creative ways for members to maintain relationships, and increasing our brand awareness on campus,” Miller said.
Additionally, Miller would also enjoy seeing Scanameo and the 2021 executive board, depending on the state of the Fall 2021 semester, carry out plans that were previously discussed during the 2020 executive board’s term, which included a new member education retreat, a family weekend event, sales projects, and career fair-style professional development events. “The biggest change I’ve noticed is a passion for PSE,” previous President Tyler Miller said, “Everyone in the chapter now has to go through N.M.E. and recruitment and truly knows the value of brotherhood.” Scanameo has been passionate about PSE since day 1 and her passion and involvement has only increased. “All of the Alumni are very proud of all that you guys have accomplished, and we continue to root for you guys in everything you do,” Kennedy added. A quote that Scanameo draws inspiration from is “one voice can change a room,” which was said by President Barack Obama. This quote is reflective of Scanameo and her ability to lead our chapter. As a chapter, we are lucky to have a strong and passionate voice to lead PSE into the future. We wish Scanameo a great term and look forward to seeing what she can do as PSE’s 4th President!
a look into Michelle: get to know your president all photos courtesy of Michelle Scanameo.
The soon to be grads: our seniors
PI SIGMA EPSILON
grad·u·a·tion /ˌɡrajəˈwāSH(ə)n/ 1. the receiving or conferring of an academic degree or diploma. 2. the action of dividing into degrees or other proportionate
divisions on a graduated scale.
Found in 2017, the Epsilon Omicron chapter of Pi Sigma Epsilon has committed itself to building a family. With just over 1̀00 brothers four years after its conception, the chapter's leadership has successfully built a profound relationship with brothers that begins with pledgeship and will continue well beyond graduation. Through membership, brothers have found best friends, roommates, coworkers; a home, for life. Whether it be social events, coffee chats, podcasts or zoom, the opportunities to find your people are boundless- and with every year, these individuals move onward, joining our rapidly growing alumni network and becoming invaluable resources for mentorship and guidance. In this issue, the Omicronicle congratulates the graduating seniors of the 20212022 school year. These individuals have lived he best of both worlds, a hybrid of in person and online memories- now they begin the next step of their professional career, awaiting whatever opportunities await them as a member of Pi Sigma Epsilon and Indiana University graduate.Thanks to their efforts, PSE enjoyed consistent flourishing and mentorship; it is our honor to welcome them, in the following years, as proud, Pi Sigma Epsilon alumni.
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POST COLLEGE PLANS: Jason will be working for JPMorgan Chase in their corporate finance rotational program in Chicago. During my first year of the two year program, he will be studying for the CPA Exam. CAREER ASPIRATIONS: Jason wants to earn his CPA to catapult his career forward. He doesn't have a goal towards a specific title, but wants to travel throughout his career, be financially stable, and enjoy the work he does. FAVORITE THING ABOUT PSE: The ability to meet new people or enhance relationships while participating in beneficial activities.
POST COLLEGE PLANS: Jack plans to move to Indianapolis and live in the Broad Ripple area. He will work at the (FCA) Financial Consultant Academy through Charles Scwhab, CAREER ASPIRATIONS: His aspiration is to become the primary advisor of many friends, and to run his own Financial Planning practice. FAVORITE THING ABOUT PSE: My favorite thing about PSE has been the community aspect that has allowed me to stay focused on my professional growth while making amazing friends along the way.
Jack Guiboux Finance w il l S: Brynn g N A L P E k e t in LLEG POST CO g as an Event Mar in k r o n ic be wor fo r T e c h t ip S p e c ia li s t in t h e ir L e a d e r s h s ie r t am. In d u s ent progr D e v e lo p m S : S h e is I R A T I O N r k e t in g P S A R E E a CAR p ly h e r m n c e in a r e a l p a o t g in ie er hop e and exp e s n 't k n o w le d g n g w a y . B r y n n d o e a r s , li y il a n d fu lf r e s h e 'l l b e in 1 0 a y u p know whe pes to work her w o b u t s h e h p a n y a n d b e a r o ler o u n d m o c ose a at her d e r fo r t h u n h e r o w n a le d n a l to r mode o u ld lo v e that m e . S h e w o r g a n iz a t io n , b u t r o a d . n o np r o fi t it e a w a y d o w n t h e w il l b e q u SE: ABOUT P made G N I H T E F A V O R I T n s h ip s t h a t s h e 's s m e t t h e r e la t io n n e c t io n s . S h e h a lp e d o a n d t h e c e o p le w h o h a v e h e a n d a p y ther so man e t t e r b r o s s io n a l. b a e m o c p r o fe her be -rounded m o r e w e ll
Brynn Warrick Marketing n Non profit Man
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CONGRATS! Congratulations on completing another semester.
We're proud to have produced an issue celebrating the individuality and hard work of our brotherhood. Your dedication does not go unnoticed. From Inter-Chapter Communications to you- you made it. We never doubted you once.
THE OMICRONICLE