The Lion's Roar 1/21/2020

A Student Publication

Volume 91, Issue 17

Janine Hatcher Miss SLU 2020 How this Virginia native plans to create a legacy during her reign.

Pg. 7

What to do when looking for an internship

Pg. 16

Roomie graduates

Pg. 18

Hammond, LA Jan. 21, 2020

10

12

18

20

A Letter from the Editor

3

SGA in 2020

Split graduation ceremonies

4

Free Meals by Religious Groups 15

Miss Southeastern Louisiana University

7

Finding an Internship

Joyce Washington

10

Darious Robertson: Roomie the 18 Lion

Importance of Travel

12

Eddie’s Frozen Custard

Table of Contents 14

16

20

A Letter

03

from the Editor

To the reader,

A new year and a new decade will only have as much meaning as we give them.

All change is gradual - there is always a better way for any system to operate, but do not act before you think. This sums up my first semester’s experience as editor-in-chief of The Lion’s Roar.

As spring kicks our tired selves out from our beds and back to classes and work, it is essential for me to reflect as a pragmatist, to look at things in an objective manner. With an almost entirely new staff this past fall, a new position at the newspaper, and several outside factors pressing on my day-

to-day schedule, The Lion’s Roar staff performed at our greatest capacity.

The staff and I worked diligently to produce quality content for the campus community. From establishing new connections and relationships on campus to adding to our evergrowing social media presence, we have hit the mark in engaging with our audience. In addition to our workload accomplishments, I made my first semester 4.0 GPA in the fall.

While 2019 presented both great challenges and great accomplishments, 2020 will be the staff’s year to transition from working hard to working smart.

Yes, our staff is intelligent, but the structure of our day-to-day work needs tweaking.

How will this impact the reader?

What changes will The Lion’s Roar undergo? As I have said before, all change is gradual. While they may not be redefining changes, I hope to lay the groundwork to a more successful publication this year by working even more with our online and on-campus presence.

We have a Twitter account that I hope will rise from the ashes and restore its use to the fullest potential. It is a small change, but nonetheless one that will improve the publication.

One of my proudest additions to the newspaper was the connection built between students and departments who sent submissions for the newspaper.

Keeping those connections and growing new ones will allow different sets of eyes to look for what the community should be aware of.

A picture can speak a thousand words, but I believe the photos included in The Lion’s Roar should tell a constructive narrative. Our online presence has grown, and the most engaging posts involve photo collages, some that have even been used by individuals and other departments on campus. I believe ‘capturing the moment’ gives the story more justice than only words can describe, and so the staff and I will work to increase the amount of engaging online content we post on social media and broaden our coverage to encompass additional aspects of the university.

This is my sixth semester on staff at Student Publications. Reinventing the wheel is pointless, but there can always be a more effective way to work. As long as I think rationally, and guide the staff with a constructive and practical plan, all will be well, and the community will see the newspaper function at its peak.

- Jacob Summerville, Editor-in-chief

04 The university held two commencement ceremonies instead of one this past December for the seniors who graduated in the Fall 2019 semester in the 7,761 seat University Center on North Campus.

A morning ceremony was held for the College of Science and Technology, College of Business and College of Education and an evening ceremony for the College of Nursing and Health Sciences and the College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences.

Lori Fairburn, director of enrollment services, explained that many people involved in the organization of the ceremonies paid attention to detail to make sure everything went as planned.

“In the weeks leading up to the events and during the ceremonies, dozens of students, faculty and staff committed their time to making sure every detail of commencement was reviewed,” said Fairburn. “Students, including members of the orchestra and SGA President Karley Bordelon, made the commitment to attend both ceremonies to make sure everything went smoothly.”

Compared to previous commencements, it was noted that the guests seemed to enjoy the smaller crowds of the split ceremony.

“Students and their guests were noticeably more relaxed and comfortable than some of the prior commencements,” mentioned Fairburn. “We know of at least one marriage proposal after one of the ceremonies, so we are hoping that was a good sign that students were enjoying their day.”

Karley Bordelon shared that everything seemed to go according to plan for both ceremonies.

“I think everything went as planned,” shared Bordelon. “The Commencement Team works really

Commencement changes hard to make sure everything is smooth and fun for everyone. It is a time to celebrate, and they want to make sure everything is perfect for our grads’ special day.”

Bordelon explained that the changes made to the ceremonies this semester made the experience more enjoyable for graduates and their guests.

“I feel like it was super helpful for students and their families,” said Bordelon. “There were plenty of seats for all the relatives, and the ceremony itself was much shorter.”

Charles Augustus graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in marketing during the morning ceremony.

05

Splitting the celebration into t�o ceremonies fixed previous concer�s He explained that although he originally had some concerns, he ended up enjoying the ceremony.

“Initially, I wasn’t a fan of it, but once it started, graduation was pretty quick, pretty smooth and it wasn’t congested,” said Augustus.

“My family really enjoyed it, so all in all it worked out well.”

Augustus mentioned that

the split ceremony prevented some students from being able to celebrate their achievements together.

“It’s still sad when some people that I’m graduating with, we don’t actually graduate together,” commented Augustus. “Overall it was convenient, I’ll say that.

Parking and traffic wasn’t nearly

as bad.”

One of the reasons for having the split ceremony was to prevent traffic and parking issues that have occurred at past commencements.

Alexander Sutton, a security guard who worked the evening ceremony, explained how the split was beneficial.

“I think it was more safe, honestly,” said Sutton. “More people could get out and in. I remember last graduation, it was packed and no one had a seat. I feel like it was better this year with the split ceremony.”

David Bell graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in history during the evening ceremony.

Bell explained that the split ceremonies helped with parking availability and guest accommodation.

“I definitely think it was better, because I’ve been to a ceremony here when it was just the one, and it was just crazy,” said Bell. “Before I knew it was two ceremonies, I had even kind of uninvited some people because the number of people I was bringing was getting too high. But, at this one, my car broke down, I rolled up late and I still managed to find a parking spot. It’s not crazy crowded, like I feel I’ll still be able to find people.”

Fairburn explained that future commencement ceremonies may have additional changes if attendees have any concerns about this past graduation.

“Any changes to commencement will be made based on feedback from the Winter 2019 ceremonies,” stated Fairburn. “We encourage anyone with feedback to email records@southeastern.edu.”

- Maggie Tregre, Staff Reporter

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Miss SLU 20 202020

Janine Hatcher delves into her past and her plans for the future

08

“That’s what I want to continue to do throughout my reig� this school year— show myself, present, be of any help or ser�ice I can be to the communit�.”

- Janine Hatcher, Miss Southeaster� 2020

The university named Janine Hatcher Miss Southeastern Louisiana University 2020 on Nov. 22 to represent all things green and gold.

Originally from the city of Plainfield, New Jersey, Hatcher grew up as the second oldest of five siblings. Her parents moved to Chesapeake, Virginia when she was around 9 years old.

She spent fourth grade through some of her undergraduate studies in Chesapeake until her parents moved to Louisiana.

Growing up in a Christian household with her parents and siblings, Hatcher shared that some of the most important parts of herself derive from family.

“I think my family as a whole, the values, the morals, the principles that were instilled in us as a child—I think those are things that shaped me,” explained Hatcher. “My family is huge on family and quality time. We have a big family—there’s seven of us. Even my extended family is huge.

My siblings are my best friends. We’re really, really close. So, I think those qualities helped shape me as an individual—things that I want seriously in my future, have a family, do the same things my parents did, establishing my career and

Janine Hatcher was crowned Miss Southeastern Louisiana University 2020 on Nov. 22, 2019.

establishing myself and continuing to work towards the goals that I have for myself as an individual.”

Hatcher played the cello for the talent portion of the pageant, but she explained that the violin is actually her primary instrument.

She has been playing the violin since the sixth grade and shared how it has impacted her.

“It’s something I try to keep up with every now and then,” shared Hatcher.

“Unfortunately, I don’t have the leisure to play like I would love to, but that is definitely something that also has shaped me. It just taught me so much discipline and persistence and initiative. So, that’s definitely something that has molded me as a person. I don’t think I would be the same person if I didn’t pick up that violin years and years ago.”

Hatcher is a senior business administration major at the university.

She mentioned that the university has an MBA program, which is something she knew she wanted to pursue after graduating.

Hatcher shared how she has always known that she wanted go into business.

“I just feel like people should have a greater understanding of financial literacy, and that’s something I wanted for myself, which is why I was always interested in it,” elaborated Hatcher.

Elizabeth Randon McDougal, instructor of marketing, is the sister of a former Miss Southeastern and was an instructor of Janine’s.

She was excited when Janine signed

Hatcher poses for a picture with SGA President Karley Bordelon, Roomie the Lion and Brian Williams, Mr. Southeastern Louisiana University 2019. She attended Ring Ceremony, her first event during her reign, on Dec. 4, 2019.

up and believed that she would do well in the pageant.

“Janine is intelligent, talented and a fresh voice that will represent our university with pride throughout her year of service,” shared McDougal. “She is a fabulous pick for Miss Southeastern, and I am so proud of her accomplishments so far.”

For the years that she has attended the university, Hatcher shared that she has enjoyed her experiences so far and the diversity of people that she has met.

“Everybody I’ve met, regardless of people’s different paths they’ve taken to get here, everybody respects each other’s journeys and encourages one another in their endeavors that they’re here for,” said Hatcher. “So, I think that’s probably been the biggest thing that I will take on and I will cherish here at the university.”

Being an out-of-state transfer, Hatcher explained that in terms of campus involvement, she was initially hesitant.

However, she found an organization with a cause that she believes in called Sons of Promise and Daughters of Destiny.

“I don’t feel too overwhelmed because, like I said, I don’t have my hands in too much, and I wanted to stick with that one organization because it’s something I believe in,” said Hatcher.

“It’s something that’s tied into my platform as well. It’s something that I wanted to make sure that I still could commit my time to.”

Hatcher described goals that she wants to accomplish during her time

09 as Miss SLU, directed toward her platform—Respect Individual Potential.

“I know I want to have small fundraising events throughout the year, but I want to make sure there are two specifically designated for my platform to bring awareness to that,” explained Hatcher. “Those funds that are raised at those events will be specifically given to the organizations that I would like to give it to. Also, I would like to meet with the mayor or some kind of city official so we can talk about what we can do to help support their endeavors in boosting our education programs.”

Although it is just the beginning of her reign, Hatcher touched on who she wants to be remembered as.

“I want to be remembered as myself— Janine,” stated Hatcher. “I think people think that when you compete in pageants, it’s like they’re looking for a specific person, or you have to try to be somebody else, but really I was literally just myself. I showcased myself, and that’s what I want to continue to do throughout my reign this school year—show myself, present, be of any help or service I can be to the community. I want to be remembered as a servant leader. I’ve always been that. That’s something I’ve always done throughout organizations in high school and even in my previous institutions that I went to. I’ve always been that kind of voice to the community.”

- Brynn Lundy, Staff Reporter

Joyce Washington

Getting to know a campus janitor and lover of people After working at the university for four years, a spotlight is shined on a campus custodian who opened up about her personal life.

Joyce Washington, 58, is a janitor at the university.

Washington shared the passion she finds in her work daily.

“I like this, doing stuff like this,” stated Washington. “Everybody’s not made to go to college. Everybody’s not made to be a doctor. Everybody’s not made to do every career. Just be the best that you can at whatever career it is. If it’s digging a ditch, you need that ditch so that water comes down that drain. Every job, it all

means something. Without me, our tables wouldn’t be clean, or the floors wouldn’t get mopped, or the bathrooms wouldn’t get clean.”

Washington’s favorite parts of her days revolve around her personality.

She discussed that the highlight of her days is putting smiles on the faces of students and her family.

“I have such a big family,” stated Washington. “I just go and make them laugh, and they say ‘Joyce, you could say anything to make anybody smile, you know, you just say stuff.’ I’m a people person.”

Washington has many relatives that she adores.

“I have a husband,” said Washington.

“We’ve been married 26 years. One daughter and four grandchildren. She’s 39.

She has three daughters and one son, and he lives with me. He’s my heart, and I love my other grandchildren too.”

Outside of her work as a custodian, Washington finds it necessary to spend time with those closest to her. She often devotes her time to family outings.

“I have a real big family, real, real big family,” mentioned Washington. “And we just have fun together. We do things, have picnics, and my dad had like 25 sisters and brothers. A lot of them, they have a lot of children, so our family is always having something. I like that.”

Washington shared one instance where she found herself without a car and working multiple jobs at once.

“I had two other jobs,” discussed Washington. “I worked at Seale & Ross Law Firm, and I worked for one of the lawyers. So I had three jobs, I had no car, I walked. And I came here for four o’clock, and I got off at 12 o’clock at night, and I walked home. Then I had to get right back up again and go to my job at the law firm.”

Washington described her love for other people when reflecting on the legacy she hopes to leave at the university.

“I’m just a good and kind-hearted person, and I would do anything for anybody,” explained Washington. “I would give anybody my legs. Don’t get me wrong, I’m not perfect. Everybody does things, but I just want them to say, ‘Oh, Miss Joyce made us laugh.’ I just want to make everybody smile. I’m gonna treat them just the way they wanted to be treated. Just remember me for my pretty smile and my attitude.”

- Elana Guillory, Staff Reporter

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TAURUS (April 20 to May 20) Although you might well be tempted to be more extravagant than you should be at this time, I’m betting you’ll let your sensible Bovine instinct guide you toward moderation.

GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) An opportunity for travel could come with some problems regarding travel companions and other matters.

So be sure you read all the fine print before you start packing.

CANCER (June 21 to July 22) Make an effort to complete your usual workplace tasks before volunteering for extra duty. Scrambling to catch up later on could create some resentment among your colleagues.

LEO (July 23 to August 22) A financial matter could have you rethinking your current spending plans. You might want to recheck your budget to see where you can cut back on expenses until the situation improves.

VIRGO (August 23 to September 22) One way to make your case for that promotion you’ve been hoping for might be to put your planning skills to work in helping to shape up a

project that got out of hand. Good luck.

LIBRA (September 23 to October 22) Be careful about “experts” who have no solid business background. Instead, seek advice on enhancing your business prospects from bona fide sources with good success records.

SCORPIO (October 23 to November 21) Standing up to support a colleague’s viewpoint -- even if it’s unpopular -- can be difficult if you feel outnumbered. But you’ll win plaudits for your honesty and courage.

SAGITTARIUS (November 22 to December 21) While progress continues on resolving that recurring problem, you might feel it’s taking too long. But these things always need to develop at their own pace. Be patient.

CAPRICORN (December 22 to January 19) Someone close to you might have a financial problem and seek your advice. If you do decide to get involved, insist on seeing everything that might be relevant to this situation.

AQUARIUS (January 20 to February 18) A personal matter takes an interesting turn. The question is, do you want to follow the new path or take time out to reconsider the change? Think this through before deciding.

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12

Creating a

For as long as I can remember, my mother always expressed to me the importance of being a global thinker.

I was not entirely sure what she meant by that when I was younger, but the more places we traveled, the more I began to piece it together.

My family moved to Ramstein Air Force Base in Germany when I was around two years old. The country quickly became my home and the fondest place I’ve ever known. Because I grew up as a ‘military brat,’ traveling was, and still is, a huge part of my story and my life.

We adored the military life, but my mother was adamant about making sure

nce. 2015

to Paris, Fra A summer t�ip

through

that my siblings and I embraced not only the Air Force but the country we lived in as well. German culture played a major role in my upbringing, especially when my German stepfather entered my life.

Although I was raised abroad, I never acknowledged Germany as a place that was foreign or unusual. It was just home.

My parents expanded my sense of home every time they took my siblings and I to a new country.

I’ve been fortunate enough to ride gondolas in Italy and walk the beaches of Mallorca. I’ve stood in front of Buckingham Palace as my family managed to convince me that the queen was waving at me. I later learned that she wasn’t.

One of my fondest memories was a trip to Holland, where I ran around and laughed with a bunch of Middle Eastern kids. We could not speak each other’s

languages, yet we bonded instantly.

I’ve been to at least nine European countries throughout my time living there.

Although I was too young at the time to appreciate and understand the importance of our travels, these adventures caused me to become a more open-minded person as I got older.

That’s the beautiful thing about traveling. It’s a gift that keeps on giving, even after it is over. The more I travel, the wiser I become.

With that being said, embracing a new culture is not always the easiest thing to do.

Moving back to the United States was ironically the biggest culture shock of my entire life. I soon discovered that growing up with the U.S. military overseas was significantly different from actually living in America.

When I started living in Louisiana, I found myself questioning many of the traditions and cuisines that my friends enjoyed. With time, however, I began to

Christ�a sM Ger�any arket in Kaisersla . 2017 uter�,

better world

t�aveling embrace their cultural upbringings, even though they were different from my own.

As overwhelming as the transition was, I realized the importance of immersing myself in a new environment and understanding how other people live.

Trevor Noah once described traveling as the “antidote to ignorance,” and that could not be more true.

There are many negative connotations placed upon the word ‘ignorance,’ but ignorance is simply the state of lacking knowledge. We all lack knowledge of something, and that isn’t something that we should automatically be ashamed of.

Moving back to the United States made me aware of ignorance I didn’t know I possessed. It reminded me that although I traveled an entire continent, there was still so much I did not know about the rest of the world around me. A revelation like that is humbling, to say the least.

That is why traveling is so important.

No one is immune to ignorance, but

everyone can make the effort to expand their knowledge and learn more about how other people live.

Most of us can probably agree that it is easy to fear the unknown. The longer we live with that fear, the more we subject ourselves to making preconceived judgments about other people. Those preconceived judgments prevent us from truly understanding and embracing other people and other ways of life, and history has proven that to be severely ineffective.

The transition between countries was uncomfortable at times, but it is undoubtedly the most rewarding thing that has ever happened to me. Traveling has never been a waste of money or time because I have always benefited from the experience regardless of the outcome.

Now I understand what my mother has been trying to teach me all these years.

My first visit to Time Square in New York Cit�. 2017

13

We are all born as local thinkers, but when we become global thinkers, we become more conscious of the world around us, and unity becomes more possible. Our world is able to achieve greater things when we make stronger efforts to understand each other.

I encourage everyone to take the time to hear someone else’s story and learn from their ways of life. Not only is it the most humbling experience, but it will also make you a better person. Traveling makes the world a better place.

- Symiah Dorsey, Staff Reporter

Washing�on D.C. 2019

A reflection of 2019 in

14

SGA In the fall of 2019, the Student Government Association presented several opportunities for students to support its campus community.

Karley Bordelon, president of SGA, has assisted with many programs and projects designed for improving students’ experiences on campus.

Bordelon described the different projects and programs that were held in fall 2019 for students.

“We teamed up with the GFN Fuller Center of Hammond and had around 100 students and community members come out to actually build the walls for a family in need,” said Bordelon. “During Homecoming, we had many other events. We also had many Free Speech Alley events, allowing students to speak out on what matters to them.”

Bordelon described what contributed to a successful semester for SGA. “These events have really gone well because we have such an awesome and dedicated team this year,” said Bordelon. “Our SGA members really have a passion for helping students, which makes programming, committee meetings and overall governing fun and exciting for SGA members.”

Of all the events, Bordelon found it hard to pick SGA’s biggest hit.

“There’s no way that I can choose just one thing that has been our biggest success,” shared Bordelon. “It could be increasing the Study Abroad funding, allowing students to speak their minds at Free Speech Alleys and Campus Hall meetings. It could be coming together with Alumni for our 2019 Homecoming Week. It could be students working hard to build the actual walls of a house for the Green and Gold house built. It could be our Lion 2 Lion Mentoring Program, the 2019 Big Event or the new lion statue that was recently finished in

Friendship Circle.”

Just like many organizations and groups, there are challenges. Bordelon explained how in any organization there are things that do not go as planned.

“This semester in SGA, just like in school, had its fun moments and its very hard moments, but we always have to remember why we were placed in these positions and keep moving forward,” shared Bordelon.

Looking into the spring semester, Bordelon commented on some events to look out for in 2020.

“My personal favorite is our 2020 Big Event,” said Bordelon. “We are aiming to have 1,200 students participate this year for our 10th annual event.”

The Big Event is scheduled for Mar. 28, with the backup rain date being Apr. 4.

Bordelon shared the most important thing she has learned serving as president.

“After a few weeks in my position, I came to the realization that being SGA president is so much more than just one person and one position,” said Bordelon. “I am representing every single student in the university. That being said, I had to make sure that my mindset was geared towards helping as many students as possible our fund allocation, programming and overall decisions.”

With spring elections coming up in early April, Bordelon described what legacy she wants to leave during the rest of her term.

“Overall, I want to help students find their ‘why’ and help create a positive experience for them,” shared Bordelon.

- Briyana Anderson, Staff Reporter

15

Organizations offer free food along with fellowship

Many of the university’s religious organizations provide free lunches throughout the week to all students.

Some of these organizations include the Catholic Student Association and the Baptist Collegiate Ministry.

These organizations hold weekly or monthly gatherings during the afternoon at their meeting locations. Meals given out are free, provided by the organization’s staff members whose serving hours are typically from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Danielle Magruder, Catholic Student Association president, shared why CSA pairs with Saint Albert the Great Catholic Church parishioners that contribute towards free food for students.

“It’s our community members of the Saint Albert Catholic Church that host these free meal events, and that’s something that has been a tradition before I even started at Southeastern,” said Magruder. “We do it because Saint Albert wants it to be for the students and help those to not pay for meals so that there’s options for all. It’s also important for students to see Saint Albert and meet the community of the church.”

Not only does the organization host free lunch events but also events that provide free meals to students, such as a

late night breakfast during finals week.

Magruder discussed when CSA hosts free lunches during the academic year.

“Free meals are served every Tuesday from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., located at Saint Albert, and it’s during the school year each semester, not during breaks or holidays,” stated Magruder.

Sarah Shoun, student and member of CSA, stated why she believes free food should be served to college students.

“CSA has had such a positive impact on me and my outlook on helping others,” said Shoun. “The free lunch they offer is awesome because you have the opportunity to meet other college students and interact with people in your major. CSA has so many great opportunities from free lunch to helping out the community. The free lunch is especially amazing since it’s offered every week, and it’s a good way to consistently visit people at a fun and inviting place.”

Saint Albert the Great Catholic Church is located on 409 W. Dakota St. in Hammond.

Matt Middlecamp, director of the Baptist Collegiate Ministry, described who serves the meals for BCM and what students can expect for most lunches.

“Local churches provide food for

BCM’s free lunch events, and they also serve the meals to the students who attend,” stated Middlecamp. “Students can expect a good, home-cooked meal.

Recently, meals have been barbecue, taco soup, jambalaya and so much more.

Usually at our large events, we will have some type of food served as well.”

Churches that have participated in the past include Immanuel Baptist, First Baptist of Ponchatoula and Loranger Baptist.

Middlecamp further shared how giving free lunch affects the community as a whole.

“We want to serve the students and share Jesus Christ with them,” explained Middlecamp. “Free lunch allows us to serve those who need it but also allows us the opportunity to share Jesus with our students, and that is a part of our mission.”

BCM begins serving lunches every Thursday at 11 a.m., located on 501 W. Dakota St. Stop by these organizations during their lunch hours to fuel up on free food throughout this upcoming spring semester.

- Gabrielle Wood, Staff Reporter

16

Searching for an inter�ship

When students do not know where or how to begin

Having interned at Louisiana Farm Bureau Insurance for two years, Timothy Thibodaux, a student in the MBA program, now works as a graduate assistant for the College of Education.

With a plethora of resources available both online and at the university, seeking out one’s first intern position can have students questioning whether or not they are making the right decisions.

From knowing what to look for in a company to earning an internship position, the path may seem complex.

Craig Marinello, manager of student employment and internship development for the Office of Career Services, was the director of Catholic Charities on the Northshore from 2010 to 2016. During his time there, he interviewed students looking for a position centered around clinical work.

Marinello explained that some students who had previous internship experience were dissatisfied with

their past experiences.

“When they went to those places, instead of actually meeting people one-on-one and doing clinical work, they found themselves making copies and making coffee and doing nothing that helped them in getting better at what they’re supposed to do,” said Marinello. “So, selfishly as students, you need to be aware of what the job is – ask those questions.”

According to Marinello, starting the internship search depends entirely on the student. It can allow students who are unsure about their career path to experience the day-to-day flow of a job before investing in a certain degree.

Marinello encourages students to know whether their degree route requires intern hours, especially those

who know what career they want to pursue.

“For those folks, that second half of your sophomore year, if you’re really focused on where you’re going, then start to look for those opportunities,” explained Marinello.

Timothy Thibodaux, a student in the MBA program, completed an internship at Louisiana Farm Bureau Insurance during his undergraduate career as a computer science major.

He discovered LA Farm Bureau after attending Career Fair and TechConnect his sophomore year, where he ended up as an intern for two years.

During his fourth semester, Thibodaux was looking for a position that would enhance his skills outside the classroom.

“There was a little bit of a

disconnect between exercises to understand things and real-world work, and so I wanted to do an internship to get a taste of reality – what it’s like to actually work in the industry,” shared Thibodaux.

For his own benefit, Thibodaux started attending job fairs during his freshman year to familiarize himself with the climate.

“I didn’t have anything to offer, but I was just there getting familiar with it and getting my name out there, and that’s very helpful,” discussed Thibodaux.

Another aspect of finding an internship is creating a resume.

Marinello encourages students to utilize the OCS to review their resumes and to ask for recommendations.

He specified that a resume is not the tool that gives someone a position.

“Your goal of your resume is to get you in the door to get the interview,” commented Marinello. “Once you’ve gotten the interview, then anything on your resume is fair game for questions by the interviewer, and that’s whether it’s internships or it’s real jobs.”

Some errors Marinello advises

students to watch out for include misspellings, grammatical errors and sections of text not lining up with one another.

The OCS provides mock interview sessions that are available to all students, and Marinello recommends that students take advantage of the opportunity.

“I’d much rather you make mistakes in my office because in my office, they don’t cost you anything, maybe a little bit of embarrassment, but at the end of the day, you’ve got to get that stuff out,” said Marinello.

Understanding what’s listed on one’s resume and doing research on a company are factors that contribute to a successful interview.

“If you ask questions that you can readily go find the answers to on their website, that adds up to a negative in their book,” explained Marinello. “Little things like that go a long way, but then it also gives you the ammunition to ask good, thoughtprovoking questions.”

For Thibodaux, the interview process took four to six weeks before he received a position.

17 Thibodaux explained that after six months at his internship, his workload grew in quantity and intensity, giving him a better insight to the company’s operations and a better understanding of the website’s coding.

“Whenever I graduated, I was like 95% finished with a solo project that they gave me to do by myself with minimal supervision, and that took like a year to do,” said Thibodaux. “It started off with really rudimentary, simple stuff, and as they got a feel for me and my work, the trust was built.”

Students who need help with any part of the internship process can stop by the OCS during business hours.

Marinello shared, “We are a funloving group of people who have one sole purpose, and that’s to help you guys find the careers that you want to make a meaningful transition from your college world to your professional world.”

- Jacob Summerville, Editor-in-Chief

Do’s and Don’ts of Inter�ships at a Glance Do...

- Complete an inter�ship during your college career. In fact, t�� to get multiple inter�ships to give you a better idea of what you might want to do as a career.

- Write thank you e-mails and/ or notes to all who inter�iew you and assist you in your inter�ship.

This is oſten overlooked by many applicants, so you will cer�ainly set yourself apar�.

- Set specific goals for your inter�ship so you know exactly what you want to accomplish.

These can oſten be defined with your inter�ship coordinator and/ or super�isor as well.

- Keep in touch with people who play a major role in your inter�ship even if the ex�erience was not the best.

- Find a mentor within the inter�ship organization if you can. Keep in mind that the best mentors won’t just lead you; they will also inspire you.

- Last but not least, enjoy your inter�ship. At times, you may feel that all you are doing is g��nt work, but keep at it, and your hard work will event�ally pay off.

Courtesy of Craig Marinello

Don’t...

- Pass on an oppor��nit� to gain ex�erience beyond the official scope of your inter�ship. It’s good to be proactive and go above and beyond what is ex�ected of you.

- ����s��� ��� �o�����i�s. ���� i� �i�� ���� �o� ��� �� i����� ��� �o�� ���i���� �o�� is �o ����� ��� ��o�i�� �s ��c� ����� �s �ossi���.

- Ever give up on your quest to obtain an inter�ship. Use and exhaust all your options: Office of Career Ser�ices, family, friends, professors, cold-calling, LinkedIn connections, etc.

- �cc��� �� i�����s�i� �i��o�� ��o�i�� ���� �o� �i�� ���� ��� o��o����i�� �o ����o�� ��� ����s o� ��s�s ��c�ss��� �o ��� ��� �������� �x���i��c� ���� �o� ��� s���c�i�� �o� i� �o�� i�����s�i� �x���i��c�.

- Bur� any bridges. Even if your inter�ship ex�erience wasn’t what you hoped it would be, the contacts that you make may come in handy in the f�t�re.

- �o���� �o ���� ����� c���c� �o s�i�� ��� s���� o��. ���� ���, i� �����’s � �o� o���i�� i� ��� ������, �o� �i��� �� ��� ��s� ���so� ���� co��s �o �i��.

Courtesy of Craig Marinello

18

Darious Rober�son speaks about his time as Roomie the Lion

After four and a half years of representing the university as Roomie the Lion, the former mascot is preparing to pass the torch.

Darious Robertson graduated in the fall of 2019 with a bachelor’s degree in communication. He revealed that he was Roomie to his fellow graduates and the rest of the university at commencement by holding the feet of the mascot’s costume while receiving his diploma.

Robertson has been Roomie since the fall of 2015 and described why he decided to reveal his identity.

“People were always wondering who Roomie was, and some of your best friends that you have been to college with for years have been taking pictures with you and they never noticed,” shared Robertson. “I don’t get a whole lot of chances to be honored as Roomie since we keep it a secret. This is the one thing I wanted to do to let people know why I did this.”

He explained that his opportunity to audition arose during his freshman year after he became a cheerleader.

“While I made the team, there were a few too many of us on the team,” said Robertson.

“The old Roomie had just left his position at this time, and I thought that it would be fun. I did a little mascotting back in

high school, so I figured I would give it a shot.”

Prior to becoming Roomie, Robertson never saw himself as the mascot even though he served as his high school’s mascot.

However, after receiving the opportunity to become Roomie, it stuck with him throughout the entirety of his college career.

During his nearly five-year run as the mascot, Robertson made many appearances as Roomie. He explained how he managed these events throughout his time at the university.

“Being Roomie isn’t like having a 9-to-5 job,” described Robertson. “It’s more like we plan events ahead of time, and that’s when Roomie goes to those events.”

Robertson also explained how Roomie’s activities are spaced out through the course of the year.

“Usually, before the beginning and towards the end of football season is usually when Roomie isn’t as busy,” shared Robertson. “However, for football season, there is a lot of going to events, visiting sponsors and things like that.

Most of the busy work of being Roomie is going out and meeting a lot of people because as the mascot, you are the face of the university.”

During Robertson’s career as Roomie, the mascot’s design went through some changes.

He shared that a lot of things changed for him because of the new look.

“When we transitioned to the new design, I got a lot of amenities that I had never got before,” said Robertson. “I had my own changing area, I got a place to store all of my stuff, I got a lot more attention from the Alumni Association and Greek life. I also received a chariot to drive during the games. All of those changes were pretty great.”

One of the biggest challenges for Robertson was the heat inside of the Roomie suit, especially during the summer.

He described a particularly challenging event in which he became overheated in the suit.

“I remember my very first football game as Roomie, I was overheated and dehydrated,” shared Robertson. “One of the people that helped me out of the suit said that I was so dehydrated that my skin had turned white. I had to go to the hospital and get an IV after that.”

Looking back at his time as Roomie, Robertson shared what he enjoyed the most about being the mascot.

“The best parts were always just walking around campus or walking around somewhere in Hammond and getting to meet people,” said Robertson.

“Everyone knows who Roomie is, and it is always nice because I always got to meet someone

19 new. There was always a student or community member that I had never met before.”

Recently, Roomie has attended birthday parties for sponsors’ kids.

“Being a collegiate mascot, most of the time you are around college-aged people,” explained Robertson. “Sometimes, collegeaged people can not be the nicest people. So, it is great to go and visit children who don’t really know that Roomie is a character.

It is real to them, and when they do enjoy it, you can see the sparkles in their eyes and they smile a lot bigger.”

As Robertson ends his career as Roomie, he described how it felt to leave a legacy.

“It is a different sort of feeling, honestly, because as far as I know of, there has never really been a person who has been Roomie for this many consecutive years,” shared Robertson. “I have been doing this for almost five years, and I have transitioned from the old Roomie to the new one. So, that makes me become the standard for what the next Roomie has to do. You don’t come to college expecting people to model what they do after you.”

- Dylan Meche, Staff Reporter

20

Serving up a family delicacy

Sitting on W. Thomas Street, across from Superking Seafood, lies Eddie’s Frozen Custard.

Eddie McGhee, owner and general manager of Eddie’s Frozen Custard, explained what brought him to the decision to open up a custard eatery after his service in the military.

“I saved up a little money from my job and I wanted to open up a small business with my son and I to do as a project,” said McGhee. “I wanted my son and daughter in for us to do something together.”

The business started with his son Tim and daughter Morgan, both of whom are university alumni, at 1307 University Ave on Dec. 26, 2006. According to a clipping from the Hammond Daily Star around the time, the company started amidst the growing business boom of Hammond post-Katrina.

McGhee was determined to be the first custard shop in town.

“It was a gamble,” reflected McGhee.

“If I had lost that money that I had saved up, then all of us would have been bankrupt.”

McGhee, however, believed that he had a product that people wanted and explained that the business would succeed.

“I just knew that it was a good product,” explained McGhee. “I had experienced it and tasted it for years prior to that. I have visited in my travels other frozen custard places, and I do my due diligence.”

The family worked to set their own business apart, including the decision to establish a “Flavor of the Day”

as part of the service.

“Nobody else does the flavor of the day,” said McGhee. “It has really helped us in gathering business.”

Since opening Eddie’s, McGhee and his family moved the business to W. Thomas Street following the lapse of their lease on University Avenue in 2008.

McGhee also noted the shift in Hammond around him, including the businesses across the street.

“They were down for nine months and they both reopened and business has been booming for them, and we get their runoff,” stated McGhee.

Included in the store is a frame explaining the uniqueness of custard, from its 1919 origin on Coney Island, its temperature difference in storing and freezing compared to ice cream.

Thanks to its ingredients, it also has a lower cholesterol, fat and calorie intake.

McGhee is happy for what the business has done for Tangipahoa Parish as well as what customers have been expressing.

“It has been a growing business for 13 years,” explained McGhee. “They like the courtesy, the quality, the good environment, family oriented and our folks serving frozen custard.”

Eddie’s Frozen Custard is located on 412 W Thomas St., open from 12-9 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 2-9 p.m. on Sunday.

- Andrew Jordan, Staff Reporter

at Eddie’s Frozen Custard

Sports Home Schedule Spring 2020

BASEBALL

Alumni Game 2/8 University of Louisiana at Lafayette 2/18 Jacksonville University 2/21-2/23 Stony Brook University 2/28-3/1 Valparaiso University 3/13-3/15 The University of Southern Mississippi 3/17 Mississippi State University 3/18 South Alabama University 3/24 Stephen F. Austin University 3/27-3/29 Louisiana Tech University 3/31 University of New Orleans 4/3-4/5 Tulane University 4/7 Texas A&M - Corpus Christi 4/24-4/26 University of the Incarnate Word 5/8-5/10 Lamar University 5/14-5/16

MEN’S BASKETBALL

McNeese State University 1/22 University of New Orleans 2/1 Houston Baptist University 2/5 Sam Houston State University 2/12 Abilene Christian University 2/22 Northwestern State University 2/29 Central Arkansas University 3/4

WOMEN’S BASKETBALL

University of Central Arkansas 1/29 University of New Orleans 2/1 Incarnate Word University 2/8 Abilene Christian University 2/22 McNeese State University 2/26 Northwestern State University 2/29

BEACH VOLLEYBALL

The University of Southern Mississippi *3/6 Spring Hill College *3/6 Texas A&M University - Kingsville *3/6 University of New Orleans *3/7 Nicholls State University 3/20

SOFTBALL

2020 Lion Classic 2/7-2/12 Appalachian State University 3/4 Houston Baptist University 3/13-3/14 Alcorn State University 3/17 Northwestern State 3/20-3/21 Incarnate Word University 4/3-4/4 University of Louisiana at Lafayette 4/7 Nicholls State University 4/17-4/18

TENNIS

University of Louisiana at Lafayette 1/26 Jackson State University 2/1 Louisiana State University - Alexandria 2/2 Alcorn State University 2/4 Lamar University 3/6 Texas A&M University Corpus Christi 3/8 Illinois State University 3/11 University of Massachusetts 3/18 Missouri State University 3/19 Central Arkansas University 3/27 Northwestern State University 3/29 *The New Orleans Invitational is located at Digs Volleyball Complex in Covington, LA

21

Sponsored By

Chloe Powell Junior, Health Systems Management

won FREE Papa John’s pizza for being seen on campus reading

THE LION’S ROAR

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