Tuesday 10/14/15

State News The

Ta ki n

g

n t r l o o C

MSU alumna Megan O’Connor made the decision to go through a double mastectomy as a junior to avoid being a victim of breast cancer, like many in her family.

See pages 6-7.

illustration: lauren shields and danyelle morrow

sports

greek life

Four football takeaways

“Though (the organization) is very structured, like a business, it’s a very entrepreneurial type of business fraternity.”

Football reporter Robert Bondy’s points from the game against Purdue

Duy Le, supply chain management junior on Pi Sigma Epsilon, a new co-ed business fraternity — page 12

— page 10

T ue s day, O c to b e r 14, 2 014

@thesnews

h e a lt h

Back pain? Your backpack could be the reason

Here are some suggestions for how to stay comfortable while carrying belongings on campus — page 5

stat enews .com

Contents

4 da i ly N u m b e r

inside

Students reflect on the debate between Rick Snyder and Mark Schauer

ASMSU officially backs up White House ‘It’s On Us’ campaign

Men’s soccer to work on consistency on the defensive end of the field

Page 4

Page 5

Page 9

Of the last five games played against U-M have been a Spartan victory

“I am not expecting any opposition when we try to pass this bill, but we need letters of support from students to prove that this is a serious issue affecting college students.”

Matt Marks, director of the Michigan Equal Protections for Interns Coalition.

Read more on page 4.

Finance junior Bon Zhao speaks in front of a panel of corporate representatives Friday at Job Hunting. The purpose of Job Hunting is for international students to show themselves off to future employers, find American jobs or internships and break stereotypes the company may have about international students. Read more on page 8.

PHOTO: Dylan vowell

VOL . 105 | NO. 34

Contact The State News (517) 432-3000 Newsroom/Corrections (517) 432-3070 feedback@statenews.com General Manager Marty Sturgeon (517) 432-3000 Advertising M-F, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

(517) 432-3010 advertising Managers Alex Hubert Kelsey Taber Colophon The State News design features Acta, a newspaper type system created by DSType Foundry.

2

The State News is published by the students of Michigan State University, Monday through Friday during the academic year.

Subscription rates: $5 per semester on campus; $125 a year, $75 for one fall or spring semester, $60 for summer semester by mail anywhere in the continental United States. One copy of this newspaper is available free of charge to any member of the MSU community.

Additional copies $0.75 at the business office only.

State News Inc. is a private, nonprofit corporation. Its current 990 tax form is available for review upon request at 435 E. Grand River Ave. during business hours.

The State N e ws

editorial staff (517) 432-3070 Editor-in-chief Celeste Bott managing editor Anya Rath BREAKING NEWS EDITOR Simon Schuster TRENDS AND ISSUES EDITOR Merinda Valley SPORTS EDITOR Omari Sankofa II FEATURES EDITOR Emily Jenks PHOTO EDITOR Julia Nagy COPY CHIEF Elena Cronick Copyright © 2014 State News Inc., East Lansing, Mich.

Tuesday, October 1 4, 2 01 4

MSU football will take on U-M at 3:30 p.m.

It’s official — MSU football will take on Michigan at 3:30 p.m. on Oct. 25.

The home game will be televised on ABC. The announcement was made on Monday morning, with the initial report coming from Big Ten reporter Mark Rudner. This marks the third straight season that kickoff between MSU (5-1 overall, 2-0 Big Ten) and U-M (3-4 overall, 1-2 Big Ten) is set for 3:30 p.m.

MSU will look to continue its recent

success against the Wolverines. MSU topped U-M last season, 29-6, and has won four of the last five games against the maize-and-blue.

With the announcement, MSU now has only two time slots to be determined — at home against Rutgers and on the road against Penn State — for the remainder of the season.

They play on the road against Indiana this Saturday.

—ROBERT BONDY

Opinion

Celeste Bott Editor-in-chief editorinchief@statenews.com @thesnews

Students need to invest time into keeping up with current events Part of becoming an adult is to be informed about current issues in the news and economy, and most students are not prioritizing that

By vikram mandelia opinion@statenews.com

You can claim the White House’s “It’s On Us’ campaign spot was out of place airing during the Nebraska game on Oct. 4, but so is sexual assault on our campus. Yet the same day the ad for the initiative aired, an alleged sexual assault incident occurred.

When I turned to my Facebook newsfeed however, I saw that the buzz generated by my MSU cohorts comprised of opinions and comments regarding student section attendance. Responses were weighing in on comments from our athletic director as well as an ESPN anchor who went as far as calling us spoiled for leaving early. Not a single mention of

the reported incident from my fellow MSU peers.

The conversation about the student section is continuing, but the one about the assault is not.

Part of growing through college and becoming an adult is starting to invest time into current affairs of the campus and community we live in, if not the globe. The occurrence of the incident, especially right after the airing of the initiative’s ad, goes to show that the headlines whirling around us have a real impact in our lives and we should invest time and pay them attention. The fact that very little to no discourse on campus was generated by the incident, as well as how it occurred so closely to the airing of the ad is startling.

It leads way to the questions of how aware and how seriously our campus community takes current events, and how much of our time do we really invest into processing them?

Not convinced that anything on the cover of the New York Times

applies to you? While Ebola or ISIS may seem oceans away, many current events, especially rooted in government legislation, can directly affect you as an aspiring professional. Ms. Aspiring Engineer — stumped to think of a good way to stand out to GM during your interview? Why not ask them about research and development efforts put forth to meet the government’s fuel regulation standards? Mr. Education Major — did somebody say “Common Core?” Three words for you Mr. and Mrs. Pre-med — Affordable Care Act. All of these are current regulations and initiatives from a variety of levels of government, and all can directly affect your career and job prospects once you graduate.

Judging by the forlorn stacks of the free newspapers on the racks provided by ASMSU, my guess is many students are not interested enough to peruse the news of the day during those 10 odd minutes before lecture.

And let’s not even try to make

Panic grows over Ebola virus in U.S.

the excuse that many are turning to their smartphones to skim the headlines. We all know we’re caught up in trying to beat our Candy Crush score in-between I-clicker questions. But smartphones and social media provide a window into current events and affairs our parents did not have when they were our age. We do not have to rely on an evening news anchor to relay to us the current affairs of the Middle East. Just log into Facebook or Twitter and pictures and messages from people just like us living through those events go viral.

We have the unique perspective of being able, through photos, tweets, and statuses, to see what is really happening around the world in real time. Even with this powerful medium, we need to be receptive and willing to invest even a couple seconds of our time to read and take in what’s going on in the world around us.

Vikram Mandelia is a mechanical engineering senior and a guest columnist at The State News.

M o n day ’ s r e s u lt s

Do you think college football officials properly evaluate injured players?

36%—Yes, enough measures are taken before a player hits the field again.

64%—No, officials’ priority is getting the players back in, over their health and well-being.

Total votes: 44 as of 5 p.m. Monday

LETTER: Students, take advantage of your right to vote

By Marissa luna opinion@statenews.com

DEON HOWARD

Opinion Po ll

I remember my first time voting as a student. It was in 2008 and I was voting in the presidential election.

I remember standing in line at the polling booth in Wilson Hall with dozens of other students, as poll workers were walking around directing people amongst the chaos of students going to class.

When my turn came, I was worried that I might mess something up and get in trouble, so I checked my ballot over probably four or five times before I submitted it. Then I got the much envied “I voted” sticker that I wore around for the rest of the day to let everyone know about my accomplishment.

I remember watching the results the night of the general election in my dorm. Everyone I know was watching. It was an historical election — the first time in history that an African-American was nominated for president.

After the final results were announced, campus went crazy — people ran cheering through the streets and partying ensued. It was a momentous occasion, regardless of whom you voted for.

The upcoming election this November 4th is equally if not more important than the presidential election. While decisions made at the federal level might take months or years to impact us at the statewide or local level, choices made by our governor and state legislators have immediate and lasting impacts.

Tu e s day, O c tob e r 1 4, 2 01 4

Our roads are a good example. Had our elected leaders taken action to find a long-term funding solution to fix our roads and bridges at the beginning of the summer, we’d probably be hitting a lot less potholes than we are now. Their failure to take action means that we’ll probably still be dealing with even worse road conditions this winter and next spring.

That’s why voting, in both gubernatorial and presidential elections, is so important. It’s up to us to elect leaders who are going to do what’s best for our educations, our families, our communities, and us. And in statewide and local elections, every single vote counts.

Thankfully, the Michigan Election Coalition — a coalition of nonpartisan, non-profit organizations working to increase citizen engagement with democracy — has created a new website that makes voting easier. Campuses are making it easier to vote, too.

MSU offers in-person information about upcoming elections at Neighborhood Engagement Centers across campus.

This November, whether it’s your first time or you’ve already got some experience under your belt, get out and exercise your most fundamental right to vote. It’s your duty to yourself, your family, your peers and your future.

The experiences we have in college will stick with us for our entire lives — make voting one of them.

Marissa Luna is an MSU alumna.

Th e Stat e N e ws

3

News

Simon Schuster and Merinda Valley Breaking news editor Trends and issues editor campus@statenews.com @thesnews

Gubernatorial candidates face off in debate Political theory and constitutional democracy sophomore Alexander Kurrie, left, and international relations sophomore Christopher Pawsat watch the Snyder vs. Schauer gubernatorial debate on Sunday in the Case Hall basement.

Spartans for Snyder welcome all people to their events regardless of political affiliation.

ed clean energy and the environment are not topics of discussion during this election cycle.

“I look at each candidate and see what they After months of prodding and pressuring, stand for, and that is how I vote. I do not vote Democratic gubernatorial nominee Mark for only one party,” Litten said.

He said he would be upset if Snyder lost, Schauer got his debate with Michigan Gov“but I would hope that the state would stay ernor Rick Snyder.

In an auditorium at Wayne State Universi- on the track that it is on and not return to ty, the two candidates met for a gubernato- the lost decade.”

Litten said he would be worried if Schaurial debate Sunday evening, focusing mainly er won because “I have not heard where he on tax policy and education funding.

In the basement of Case Hall, a debate view- plans on getting the money from to support ing event was organized by Amy Wolanin, who some of the plans he has.”

Social relations and poliis also the director of operacy junior Evan Stivers also tions for Students for Snyder.

“I think politics attended the debate viewShe said despite her organishould help the ing part y, although his zation’s political affiliation, perspective differs from she designed the event to be masses instead Litten’s. He said while he bi-partisan. Wolanin, an resof the select chooses who to vote for ident assistant for Sout h few... I felt that based on policy, he tends Case Hall, said she actually they were just to lean Democrat. arranged the event as a floor “I favor Schauer but not event and wanted everyone reiterating their because he’s a Democrat,” to be welcome. She said contalking points.”

Stivers said. He said he sidering Case Hall is mostly favors Schauer because of James Madison College stuhis policies. dents busy with midterms, she Evan Stivers, social relations “I think politics should was pleased with the turnout. and policy junior help the masses instead of Political theory and conthe select few and I think stitutional democracy sophSchauer is the guy to put omore Jeff Litten said he more money into education supports Snyder because he believes Snyder has better ideas than his oppo- and help more people than Snyder,” he said.

Stivers said he already voted using an absennent, Schauer.

An occasional visitor to MSU College Repub- tee ballot but the debate did not change his licans meetings, Litten said the issues he cares mind anyway.

“I felt that they were just reiterating their most about when choosing a candidate are “the unemployment rate, education funding, talking points,” Stivers said.

Litten also shared that opinion. Both felt that and clean energy...I am a supporter of nuclethose who had already made up their mind ar energy.”

For that reason, Litten said he is disappoint- would not be swayed by the debate.

By Jameson Joyce

jjoyce@statenews.com

PHOTO: JESSALYN TAMEZ

Bill to protect interns gathers support ASMSU pushes bill that would make Michigan the fifth state with equal protections for unpaid workers against sexual harassment and hiring and firing discrimination

4

The State N e ws

By AJ Moser amoser@statenews.com

ASMSU will officially advocate for a bill in the Michigan legislature that would offer protection to unpaid interns from sexual harassment and discrimination in the workplace, following a vote in the general assembly on Oct. 8.

Director of the Michigan Equal Protections for Interns Coalition Matt Marks has been working closely with leaders of the student government to gain support for the cause. The coalition is working to amend the definition of “employee” in the Michigan Health and Safety Act to include all interns, regardless of compensation.

There are currently no protections for unpaid workers from either sexual harassment or hiring and firing discrimination in Michigan and 46 other states. In order to change this, Marks and the Michigan Equal Protections for Interns Coalition are asking for letters of support from student organizations across the state.

“I think it’s common-sense legislature,” Marks said. “I am not expecting any opposition when we try to pass this bill, but we need letters of support from students to prove that this is a serious issue affecting college students.”

Marks, a political theory and constitutional democracy senior at MSU, believes the fact that unpaid interns are not legally protected from sexual harassment in the workplace is a “shocking loophole” that should be of utmost importance to the student population.

Teresa Bitner, ASMSU’s vice president of academic affairs,

Tuesday, October 1 4, 2 01 4

encouraged members of the general assembly to vote in support of the bill at ASMSU’s meeting and said it “affects everyone in this room.”

Because most interns are predominantly college students or recent graduates, Marks believes the most support for the bill should come from universities statewide.

“Who better than student governments to advocate for students?” Marks said.

With ASMSU’s support, Marks hopes MSU students in particular will be active in advocating for the bill.

On Nov. 12, a Lobby Day will be held in Case Hall to give students the chance to speak directly to legislators about supporting the bill. From 9 a.m. to noon, students will be taught the process to meet with legislators and get the word out about the bill.

At the event, students will also be carpooling to the Capitol to begin directly asking legislators for their support. Representatives from the offices of David Knezek, a supporter of HB 5691, will be present at Case Hall to instruct students on the process.

Marks encouraged all students to attend, as it “is an excellent instant resume builder and helps us directly gauge support of the bill.”

Since the issue of equal rights for interns began garnering national attention, only four states have passed legislature offering protection. Unpaid workers are also given equal protection in Washington, D.C., as well as California, Illinois, New York and Oregon.

Marks is hoping that Michigan can be the next state to offer interns equal protection rights, aiming for the bill to pass in December.

News

Backpacks can be hefty burden, source of student stress and strain When lugging multiple textbooks from class to class, proper backpack usage can be the difference between a comfortable stroll or a sore back or neck. Pads, straps and fitness all play a role

By Megan Cochrane mcochrane@statenews.com

Backpacks are a common sight on college campuses. They transport students’ supplies from point A to point B. However, some students find themselves carrying the burden of their backpacks.

Adrian Woodside, physical therapy department manager at Olin Health Center said about half of the patients that receive care in Olin’s physical therapy department have neck and back pain.

For a large portion of them, issues stem from backpack use.

Media and information junior Emily Sigler is familiar with the problems caused by a heavy and misused backpack.

“I’ve had neck pain before, as well as right shoulder pain, because I tend to just wear (my backpack) on my right shoulder,” said Sigler.

Woodside said such muscular strain is caused by the body compensating for the backward weight of a backpack.

Wearing both shoulder straps and using sternal and hip straps can help to minimize that effect.

It is recommended that backpacks weigh no more than 10–15 percent of an individual’s body weight, Woodside said. However, that is relative to the individual’s structure, physical fitness, and the backpack design, any of which may allow the individual to carry more weight without harm being done.

“I carry my backpack almost every day and for long hours a day, but I’ve found that I actually carry less than I did in high school in my backpack. So it hurts my back and neck less,” theatre freshman Katelyn Hodge said.

However, many students living off campus find it difficult to keep their bags light.

“Now that I live in an apartment ... it’s not worth it to come all the way back

home to transfer books. So, I’m forced to carry everything all day and that definitely does take a toll,” said journalism and pre-med sophomore Sumaira Hai. For her, convenience outweighs the 10–15 percent rule.

On a typical day, Hai said she carries two or three notebooks, a laptop, charger, 33-ounce water bottle, umbrella and a textbook or another book.

“I usually have my backpack with me all day every day from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.,” said Sigler, who wears it between five and 30 minutes every couple of hours depending on where she is going.

While MSU’s campus is large and many students live off campus, Woodside said it is a personal responsibility to decide what really needs to be carried on a daily basis.

Some symptoms of heavy damage include headaches, muscle tension, anterior shoulder pain, and numbness and tingling in the hands, said Woodside.

To avoid these symptoms and longterm issues related to backpack use, Woodside said there are a few key things you should look for in a bag.

The most important factor is comfort, Woodside said. Comfort characteristics include wide, padded shoulder straps, lateral straps to keep the bag’s contents from shifting, and sternal or hip straps to keep the bag in place.

Woodside also said heavier items should be packed closer to the body and the pack should be worn higher on the body.

Still, there are students who carry more than suggested and never experience problems.

Communication senior Alex Diaz said he has never had any back or neck pain despite carrying around a backpack that he estimates to weigh about 35 pounds.

“I carry everything,” Diaz said. “I don’t experience any real problems with it.”

ASMSU officially gets behind ‘It’s On Us’ campaign Formalities aside, ASMSU officials have spent ample time throwing their support behind this and other sexual assault prevention efforts

Well-padded shoulder straps — should be worn on both shoulders

Waist strap — distributes weight across the shoulders and back

Compartments —

The backpack should be the length of the torso, and bottom of the backpack should be two inches below the waist.

place the heaviest books and other items in pockets closest to the back

Source: American Occupational Therapy Association Illustration: carla prida

Fac t

Fac t

According to a study

by Boston University, approximately 85 percent of university students reported discomfort and pain associated with backpack usage.

By AJ Moser amoser@statenews.com

The ASMSU full council recently voted to officially support the “It’s On Us” initiative fully as an organization.

The program, recently put into effect by the White House, encourages students to be more active in preventing sexual assault on college campuses. ASMSU is working to determine the best way to combat situations that make students feel unsafe and promote awareness for the program.

The initiative encourages students to recognize that non-consensual sex is sexual assault, to identify and intervene in situations where sexual assault may occur if consent has not been given and to create an environment in which sexual assault is unacceptable and survivors are supported.

Fac t

The weight of a backpack should be less than 10–15 percent of the carrier’s body weight The American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons recommends.

President James Conwell has already begun advocating the program across campus.

“Sexual assault affects one in four women and one in nine men on college campuses nationwide, which is absolutely repugnant and inexcusable,” Conwell said. “It is on us to stand up for our fellow Spartans and to not just be a passive bystander. We must instead learn to intervene to ensure that everyone feels safe at Michigan State University.”

In addition to speaking with students leaders from the Council of Progressive Students and the Council of Racial and Ethnic Students, Conwell made a presentation at the MSU Greek Council’s Walk a Mile in Her Shoes event supporting victims of domestic violence.

ASMSU’s plans for the future include not only encouraging all students to take the pledge to combat sexual assault, but to combat the prevaTu e s day, Oc to b e r 1 4, 2 01 4

According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, more than 28,000 people were treated for backpackrelated injuries in the United States last year.

lence of dangerous situations on campus.

In a statement, Conwell addressed the recent assault near Beaumont Tower as a call to action.

“In the early hours of Saturday, Oct. 4, a male assailant sexually assaulted a male victim.

Although we are still unsure of the details of this particular crime, I can tell you that this is not an isolated incident,” he said. “Sexual assault is not a rare problem, nor is it a problem that does not happen here. It is an abomination that directly harms our fellow classmates and is a stain on the Spartan community that we call home. The time has come where we need to realize that as a society, we must take responsibility for protecting one another. It is on us to intervene to be sure that every Spartan makes it home safely.”

ASMSU will continue to meet with student organizations and university leaders to spread awareness for the “It’s On Us” campaign.

Th e Stat e N e ws

5

Spotlight

Anya Rath Managing editor arath@statenews.com @thesnews

MSU alumna wards off breast cancer as a student Alumna Megan O’Connor made the difficult decision to go through a double mastectomy at the age of 20 after discovering she inherited a harmful mutation

By Amanda Chodnicki achodnicki@statenews.com

A few recent milestones dot the timeline of Megan O’Connor’s life. Graduating with a degree in human biology and psychology in May 2014 is one. Being a double mastectomy recipient is another.

O’Connor made the decision to undergo the invasive surgery at age 20, the summer after her junior year at MSU. After testing positive for a mutation in her BRCA1 gene, which significantly increases a woman’s risk of developing breast cancer, she thought it was the right thing to do.

“The first hospital we went to said, ‘You’re too young to make this decision. You don’t understand the repercussions of it,’” O’Connor said.

But with a history of breast cancer in her family, she didn’t want to be a ticking time bomb.

Fac t A woman’s risk of developing breast cancer is greatly increased if she inherits a harmful mutation in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene.

Source: cancer.gov

MSU alumna and Canton resident Megan O’Connor poses with a picture of her and her sisters on Friday. O’Connor’s younger sister Lexi O’Connor, middle in photo, had a double mastectomy as well. Her younger sister, right in photo, does not carry the cancer gene. photos: erin hampton 6

The State N e ws

Tuesday, October 1 4, 2 01 4

A Carried Gene O’Connor’s grandmother died from breast cancer at age 36. After that, both her mom and aunt were worried they would receive the same shattering diagnosis.

O’Connor’s mother, Kathy O’Connor, said a black cloud hung over their heads for some time.

“We had biopsies over the years and were very cautious,” Kathy O’Connor said. “My sister then talked me into getting the gene test with her.”

Kathy O’Connor tested positive. Megan O’Connor’s aunt was also positive — for the gene and for breast cancer.

“She did a self-exam after she found out she had the gene, and that’s when she found the lump on her breast,” Megan O’Connor’s cousin Alex Klenk said.

Immediately, Megan O’Connor’s aunt started chemotherapy, and her mom had a double mastectomy surgery.

“It’s hard because at the same time, you have your sister who’s fighting for her life and then you have my mom who’s looking at the future,” Megan O’Connor said.

She said she couldn’t imagine being in her mom’s shoes.

“I felt like she felt guilty,” Megan O’Connor said. “Like, ‘Well, I feel bad that you have it, but (I don’t and) I can avoid that whole path.’”

As she went through her surgery, Kathy O’Connor said she talked about the process with her daughters.

“And boy, I kept a lot of my pain inside because I knew my girls may test positive for it one day,” Kathy O’Connor said. a no-brainer When Megan O’Connor was 19, that positive result came.

She followed her gut after testing positive and went through with the double mastectomy, but the fact that doctors thought she was “too young” initially concerned her.

“So my first question was, ‘If you’re saying this, what am I getting myself into? Why are you telling me not to do this?’” Megan O’Connor said.

She said their main answer was that she wouldn’t be able to breastfeed her own child.

Spotlight Spartans share their stories

“” “” “ ” “ My mom was diagnosed when I was about 6, so in 1999, I think, with breast cancer. She went into remission and it came back into her spine when I was in high school. She’s in stage four now, so it’s kind of been her whole life, while at least mine.

Amy Thomas, marketing senior

MSU alumna and Canton resident Megan O’Connor poses with her cousin and Canton resident Alex Klenk and a picture of their mothers who are sisters on Friday. O’Connor’s mother had the double mastectomy surgery as well, and Klenk’s mother underwent chemotherapy after finding out she had stage 4 cancer in 2009. Their mothers went to get tested for breast cancer together.

“It’s a no-brainer situation and there’s only one negative,” Kathy O’Connor said. “But it’s breast feeding your own child or saving your life.”

Megan O’Connor said doctors also told her it could affect her body image if she didn’t look normal after the procedure.

“I don’t see how that works,” Megan O’Connor said. “It’s like a free boob job and if they screw that up, you get it fixed.”

Megan O’Connor largely based her choice on what she heard of her grandmother’s experiences battling breast cancer and seeing the challenges her mother and aunt faced.

“I feel like it was an easy decision just because I always felt like I knew the outcome,” Megan O’Connor said. “I had an inkling that I knew I was positive.”

Leading up to her mastectomy, she said it really helped that the girls she lived with were comfortable with it and could even joke about it with her.

“Where, with a lot of people, I’ve noticed it’s almost a sticky subject and they don’t want to know too much,” Megan O’Connor said. “They’re interested, but at the same time, they don’t want to dig.”

Megan O’Connor chose to wait until the week after her junior year to receive the mastectomy so she could recover at home. There, she would be close to the hospital and wouldn’t have to worry about tasks like lugging a backpack around campus.

But Megan O’Connor still completed an online class after her surgery.

“It was really painful and I’m not a super big fan of taking drugs, so I tried to put it off for as long as I could until I had to take something,” Megan O’Connor said.

An Empowering Move Mastectomies have also affected members of the family beyond Megan O’Connor and her mother. Though Megan O’Connor’s younger sister Kacie O’Connor tested negative for the gene, her sister Lexi O’Connor is positive.

Megan O’Connor said she told Lexi O’Con-

5

People in Megan O’Connor’s life directly effected by breast cancer, including herself

“I feel like it was an easy decision just because I always felt like I knew the outcome. I had an inkling that I knew I was positive.”

Megan O’Connor, MSU alumna on undergoing a double mastectomy

nor it was OK to make her own decision, but urged her to think of it differently. She asked Lexi O’Connor if she wanted to fight the disease after a diagnosis, or be proactive and possibly save her own life.

Megan O’Connor said she has told others the same thing — that getting a double mastectomy is a chance to control your life.

“Would you like to wake up one day and feel something?” Megan O’Connor said. “That’s your life and you are now fighting for your life, when you had the chance to take a preventive measure and you could’ve avoided that.”

It’s not a scary thing, Megan O’Connor said.

She thinks being able to steer your future is actually empowering.

“It’s all about the way you look at it and if you want to be that way, you can roll the dice, but in the end, is it really worth it?” Megan O’Connor said. “Because you might not even get it if you have the gene, but do you want to sit there and worry?”

She said her worries faded after the mastectomy drastically reduced her original 98 percent chance of getting breast cancer.

“By having the surgery, I could still possibly get breast cancer, but it would be easier to detect, and I’d have under like a 1 1/2 percent, or 3 percent chance,” Megan O’Connor said.

To Megan O’Connor, breast cancer awareness month is a way to bring the disease into people’s minds and conversations. People can get information about it, and learn how to check for it.

“I hope that all the money they’re bringing in (does) find a cure, so when my children have children, they have a different alternative to be proactive,” Kathy O’Connor said.

Through October and breast cancer awareness month, Megan O’Connor said she wants to convey that breast cancer is not necessarily bad.

“It’s a bad thing, but you don’t have to think about it that way,” Megan O’Connor said. “It could be a chance to change your life, and it’s a chance for you to ...”

Klenk finished, “... to be hopeful about what’s possible.”

My mom was only 26 when she was first diagnosed. She was married to my dad without kids. From there until she was 39, she had battled cancer off and on, until she passed away in 2001 at the age of 39. She battled for 13 years and was actually told she wasn’t able to even conceive, but somehow she had my older brother and I. I will always aspire to have half the strength and bravery that my mom did.

Stephanie Strother, kinesiology sophomore

It was my sophomore year, so 2012 to 2013.

It’s kind of a blur when it started because the process is so long. It was a complete and total shock. My mom had had a lump before on her breast and it was not cancerous. The second time, she told me and my sister she had a feeling that it was breast cancer this time around. She’s in remission now.

Jacquelyn Lanczki, hospitality business senior

My mom was the one in my family to be diagnosed on Jan. 15, 2010. She had two lumps that were at stage 0 and 1, so they caught it early. She had a lumpectomy and several months of chemotherapy. Then, in October she had a double mastectomy. I remember her walking in the door the day she found out and telling my dad and I, and my initial reaction was, ‘No. There has got to be a mistake. Not you. Not my mom.’

T u e s day, Octo b e r 1 4, 2 01 4

Kylie Maxson, child development senior

Th e Stat e N e ws

7

Crossword

L.A. Times Daily Puzzle Edited by Rich Norris and Joyce Lewis

News

International students hone interview skills Several nternational students had the chance to showcase their skills and practice answering questions in front of a panel of recruiters

ACROSS

1 Parody 6 Infant 10 Homeless child 14 Songstress Lena 15 Geometry class calculation 16 Throw hard 17 According to 18 *MTV staple 20 D-flat equivalent 22 Territory that became North and South states 23 Mauna __ 24 Syst. with hand signals 26 “Blazing Saddles” director Brooks 27 Baseball hat 30 Nine-digit govt. ID 31 *Oral indication of anger 34 Nickname of AA co founder William Wilson 35 Word before limits or space 36 Home for a bird 39 Home for the Heat 42 Dermatologist’s concern 43 In front 45 Prophet whose name sounds like a mineral 47 *Trip to somewhere you’ve been before

50 “I need a short break,” in chat rooms 53 Brit. bigwigs 54 Vote of approval 55 Explosive initials 56 Egg cells 57 Either “Bye Bye Love” brother 60 Comprehends 62 *Selling point of a home on the Hudson, say 65 Take the part of 66 Fancy pitcher 67 Actor Morales 68 Mowing the lawn, e.g.

69 Small horse 70 Spanish muralist José María 71 Distance runs, briefly

DOWN

1 Crude dwellings 2 Western bad guy chasers 3 “Little __ Annie” 4 Top draft status 5 Classic Italian sports car 6 Happy hour spot 7 N.Y. Yankee suspended during 2014 8 Turned into 9 Gabbed 10 Slightest amount 11 Chutzpah

12 Anger 13 Mel’s Diner waitress 19 Swedish automaker 21 Biblical song 25 Actress Taylor 28 Top poker pair 29 Sassy 32 Hindu teacher 33 “That’s painful!”

34 Boyfriend 36 Fish that complains a lot?

37 “Can I get a word in?”

38 Exacts revenge 40 Fine spray 41 Cake topping 44 Washer’s partner 46 Draw, as flies 48 Uneasy “bundle” contents 49 Suitcase 50 Marathon city 51 Place for Winnebagos ... and for the answers to the starred clues?

52 Lowest choral parts 58 Exceptionally 59 2014, for one 61 Hurt 62 Sales staff employee 63 __ Jima 64 Quickness of mind

From left, East Lansing resident Isis Hung, East Lansing resident Caleigh Morgan, and Ferndale resident David Pian, and react to a presentation Friday at Erikson Hall. PHOTO: DYLAN VOWELL

By Nolly Dakroury

Get the solutions at statenews.com/puzzles Level: 1

2

3

4

Complete the grid so each row, column and 3-by-3 box (in bold borders) contains every digit, 1 to 9. For strategies on how to solve Sudoku, visit www.sudoku.org.uk SOLUTION TO TO SOLUTION SATURDAY’S PUZZLE FRIDAY’S PUZZLE

10/13/14

8

© 2014 The Mepham Group. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency. All rights reserved.

The State N e ws

Tuesday, October 1 4, 2 01 4

ndakroury@statenews.com

Singing during a job interview might be unorthodox, but for media and information senior Fanmingqi Zhang, it was a way to showcase his passion and to help him overcome his nervousness.

Zhang was one of the student presenters at this year’s job hunting event organized by the China Entrepreneur Network, which gave five international students the opportunity to showcase their abilities and talents in front of recruiters from three different companies. MessageMakers, 7C Lingo and audit firm Ernst & Young — which is now rebranding to EY — were among the companies on the panel.

At the event, held Friday in Erickson Hall, the international students from countries including China, Kazakhstan and the Philippines, showcased their abilities and talents through a video and an oral presentation or speech. Afterwards, attendees and recruiters got the chance to ask the presenters questions.

Entrepreneur network program director Anne Zhuang said this was the second year the organization hosted the event.

She said the event last year was solely geared toward Chinese students, whereas this year they wanted to expand the participant spectrum to include international and domestic students.

“Usually people can have some stereotypes on international students — that they’re kind of shy,” Zhuang said, adding that by giving international students the opportunity to present on stage, they have a better chance of expressing themselves.

One of the event organizers and China Entrepreneur Network executive board member Tao Sun said it was important for the group to facilitate for international students a way in which they could make their voices heard and presence known.

“We want to challenge this stereotype. We want to challenge this image in MSU’s campus and American society,” said Sun. The event was inspired by a Chinese job hunting television show.

After each presentation, recruiters got to decide whether they wanted the candidate to work for them or not.

Almost every candidate got an “I want you” from at least one recruiter.

“I think that our company believes that this event is kind of important because international students specifically have a unique skill set that they bring to the American job market related to their cross-cultural skill set that they have from just participating in an American educational institution,” said Caleigh Nowlin, project coordinator at Lansing-based agency 7C Lingo.

EY Assurance Senior David Pian said as the Chinese economy has become more powerful in the global market, it is important for his company to seek talent that is culturally connected to the country.

“We definitely would like to have candidates who would be comfortable with the language — not just the language, but the culture aspect as well,” Pian said.

Zhang said he was keen on looking for jobs in the U.S. because he has lived here for seven years and has become accustomed to the culture and lifestyle.

“I feel like I like (the U.S.), so I really want to get a job here,” he said.

Sports

Omari Sankofa II Sports editor sports@statenews.com @thesnews_sports

Men’s soccer heading into final frame of Big Ten play Consistency on the defensive end of the field will be key for the Spartans with four Big Ten games remaining

Junior midfielder Jay Chapman heads the ball away from Wisconsin midfielder Drew Conner on Saturday during a game against Wisconsin at DeMartin Soccer Stadium at Old College Field. The Spartans defeated the Badgers, 2-1.

By Matthew Argillander margillander@statenews. com

As the men’s soccer team (7-22 overall, 2-1-1 Big Ten) prepares to take on the Western Michigan Broncos (6-3-3 overall, 0-0-1 MAC) on Oct. 15, the team can rest easy for a day having won a key game against the Wisconsin Badgers (2-8-1 overall, 0-4-0 Big Ten) 2-1 on Saturday.

Wit h on ly fou r g a me s remaining in Big Ten play, every game is key if the Spartans hope to win the Big Ten championship. Three of the teams’ four remaining Big Ten opponents are ranked in the top 16 of the NCAA Men’s Soccer RPI rankings.

MSU’s remaining four games are No. 11-ranked Penn State (10-0-1 overall, 4-0-0 Big Ten) on Oct. 18, No. 16-ranked Northwestern (6-1-4 overall, 1-1-2 Big Ten) on Oct. 26, Michigan (4-5-2 overall, 2-12 Big Ten) on Nov. 2 and No. 1-ranked Indiana (8-1-3 overall, 2-1-1 Big Ten) on Nov. 5.

With the team’s tougher conference games on the horizon, the importance of getting the win against Wisconsin at home was paramount.

The team also has a big showdown looming with the No. 6-ranked Notre Dame

PHOTO: ERIN HAMPTON

Volleyball will lean on depth moving forward Twelve Spartans played a key role in last weekend’s home sweep over Iowa

By Troy Jefferson tjefferson@statenews.com

MSU (10-7 overall, 3-3 Big Ten) will have to lean on every player on its roster if they want to make a push in a tough Big Ten conference.

“We got to continue to improve our depth and get ready to use people in a pinch,” head coach Cathy George said of her team, which used a balance attack on Saturday to defeat Iowa.

MSU went deep into the bench against the Hawkeyes as 12 different players saw playing time.

Out of the 12 Spartans who saw action, seven recorded at least three kills and eight recorded at least one dig.

“W hen those players execute, it ’s great for us,” senior libero and co-captain Kori Moster said. “In tough clutch situations we can keep them available

Fighting Irish (6-3-2 overall, 3-1-1 ACC) on Oct. 29, the team responsible for eliminating MSU from the NCAA tournament in the last two seasons.

The game against the Broncos on Wednesday will be the Spartans’ third game in just nine days. The team will have to call upon its depth to step up in a big way. “(The) depth is going to have to keep coming in — it’s some young depth, but they’ll help us, and we’ll be all right,” head coach Damon Rensing said.

Junior goalkeeper Zach Bennett implored the team to “put a full 90 together” in Wednesday’s game against Western. “(We’ll) come out on Monday and Tuesday and try to figure out what we can do better to put a full 90-minute game together,” Bennett said. “I think we have still yet to put a full 90 together, and I think that’s something the team is really searching for.”

The strength of the team is unquestionably its defense, but it will need its offense to keep up the recent success if the Spartans hope to go far this season. After only scoring multiple goals in one game through the first eight games, MSU has scored multiple goals in two of the last three games, totaling five goals in the threegame span.

because everybody is clicking on different cylinders.”

Freshman setter Rachel Minarick has been more than “clutch” for the Spartans this season.

As the season has progressed, so has Minarick’s role.

The Naperville, Ill. native has not only set others up in the traditional role of the setter, but has created offense for herself.

“I love the fact that she is very athletic,” George said. “She can be a player at the net.”

The dual threat freshman’s skills were on display against Iowa. Minarick finished with a game-high .714 hitting percentage, five kills and 39 assists.

“A lot of teams have to watch out for her with their blocking.” George said. “It helps out our offense get going.”

The balance scoring attack against the Hawkeyes could be credited to the play T u e s day, Oc tob e r 1 4, 2 01 4

“I think we have yet to put a full 90 (minutes) together, and I think that’s something the team is really searching for.”

Zach Bennett, junior goalkeeper

of Minarick.

“I think that ever yone pitched in tonight,” freshman middle blocker Alyssa Garvelink said after Saturday’s win.

“It’s easier for Rachel to feed balls too, it just gets everything going.”

Garvelink has been a beneficiary of Minarick’s stellar play, totaling 39 kills in the last four games.

The 39 kills is good for her best total in a four game span all season.

One of the strengths of the Spartans is that they’ve demonstrated the ability to be interchangeable in their rotations.

For every starter there is a player on the bench who has played quality minutes.

If the Spartans hope to stack up with the great MSU volleyball teams of the past and compete in a loaded Big Ten conference, it’s possible they will have to continue embracing a selfless mentality moving foward.

Th e Stat e N e ws

9

Sports

Four takeaways from MSU football’s 45-31 win over Purdue last Saturday It was another lackluster fourth quarter for the Spartans, and there are still questions concerning both the offense and defense as MSU heads into the second half of the season Senior running back Jeremy Langford dives past junior defensive back Frankie Williams Saturday during a game against Purdue at Ross-Ade Stadium. The Spartans defeated the Boilermakers, 45-31. PHOTO COURTESY OF PURDUE EXPONENT/ MUJTABAA HASAN

By Robert Bondy rbondy@statenews.com

For a second straight week, No. 8 MSU football (5-1 overall, 2-0 Big Ten) nearly let a big lead slip away in the final moments of the game.

A late turnover preserved the 45-31 win over Purdue, but by no means was it pretty. Here are four takeaways from this week’s MSU victory.

Hard to get read on defense For three quarters against Nebraska, it seemed the dominant MSU defense of old had returned.

Even following the collapse in the fourth quarter, it was fair to say the defense had a stout performance by giving up only 47 rushing yards to the Cornhuskers.

But after surrendering 31 points to Purdue this past weekend, questions of what to expect from the MSU defense are back in full swing.

MSU now ranks 10th out of 14 teams in the Big Ten in scoring defense, averaging 22.3 points against per game.

One spot that has struggled as of late is the 10

The State N e ws

secondary, including senior safety Kurtis Drummond. For a second straight week, Drummond didn’t look like his normal consistent self, missing tackles and letting Purdue receivers get open down the field.

“He didn’t play as well (Saturday), and he’ll be the first one to say that,” head coach Mark Dantonio said during his Sunday teleconference.

“But there’s the next game next week and we have six more to go and he’s a very good player and made a lot of plays for us.”

Burbridge coming on as No. 2 option The stats might not show it, but at the halfway mark on the season, it’s safe to say junior wide receiver Aaron Burbridge is starting to show flashes of greatness.

Despite not starting in a single game this season, Burbridge has raked in eight receptions for 110 yards and one touchdown. He also has recorded 34 rushing yards on six attempts. The stats aren’t outrageous, but if you look at his most recent work, there is a trend forming.

Tuesday, October 1 4, 2 01 4

Burbridge had two receptions for 37 yards against Nebraska, and this past week against Purdue he finished with 35 total yards, including a 13-yard touchdown snag. Senior wide receiver Tony Lippett is by far the top wide receiver threat for MSU, but combining Burbridge’s recent production on the ground and through the air, he has emerged as a reliable No. 2 option.

Cook still needs to improve After coming out flat against Nebraska, junior quarterback Connor Cook posted an improved performance against Purdue. But there are still areas for improvement, including protecting the ball.

Cook finished 19-of-37 for 238 yards and three touchdowns, but the passes he didn’t complete stand as a concern. Cook was intercepted in the redzone when MSU was going in for the final blow and had multiple throws bounce off Boilermaker hands throughout the game.

Cook has thrown an interception in MSU’s three games against power conference teams —

Oregon, Nebraska and Purdue — and has looked inaccurate at times. Cook has all the tools to be great — some projections even have him going in next year’s NFL Draft’s first round — but he needs to get better at protecting the ball.

Survive and advance The last two weeks have been ugly for MSU, but ugly in a good way.

The way MSU closed out its first two Big Ten games can be considered mediocre and frustrating. MSU has been outscored 33-7 in the fourth quarter the last two weeks, creating a bad taste in the mouths of many fans and alumni.

But the one thing that matters the most is MSU’s perfect 2-0 Big Ten record. Dantonio isn’t playing for style points and believes that winning out will put the Spartans in a great position for the College Football Playoff.

So while there may be concerns toward MSU’s current inability to close out opponents, remember all of this team’s goals remain in front of them. It’s about simply surviving and advancing to the next challenge.

Features

Emily Jenks Features editor features@statenews.com @sn_features

fac e - o f f

Why did students from the area, other states and other countries choose to come to MSU?

“My father wanted me to study in U.S.A. for a better future. It was my dream to come here. I know that U.S.A. has the best education, I think, in the world. It’s not like Turkey.

You have rights to speak.”

BY RACHEL BRAUER RBRAUER@STATENEWS.COM

“MSU has one of the top-rated criminal justice programs in the country, so I was really excited about that.”

Giovanni Circo, graduate student from Chicago, Illinois

“I applied to MSU just to satisfy my family living here, and it ended up being the perfect school.”

“I was a really, really hard-core U-M fan, and then I toured the school and the people were so unfriendly.

I hated it.”

Ondrae Lawson, athletic training freshman from Alpharetta, Georgia

Lexi Florinki, food science freshman from Lansing, Michigan

Ilayda Susluer, accounting sophomore from Izmir, Turkey

Classified To place an ad …

By telephone (517) 432-3010 In person 435 E. Grand River Ave. By e-maIl advertising@statenews.com onlIne www.statenews.com/classifieds offIce hours 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Mon.-Fri.

Your campus marketplace! statenews.com/classifieds deadlines lIner ads 2 p.m., 1 business day prior to publication (includes cancellations) classIfIed dIsplay 3 p.m., 3 class days prior to publication

note to readers The State News screens ads for misleading or false claims but cannot guarantee any ad or claim. Please use caution when answering ads, especially when sending money.

ad acceptance All ads are subject to editing, alterations, approval, or rejection by The State News management. lIne addItIons Changes resulting in additional lines will be treated as a new ad and return to the first-day rate.

refunds No cash refunds will be issued for cancellations. Credit will be applied to subsequent ads for one year. payment All ads must be prepaid unless credit has been established with The State News.

copy errors The State News is only responsible for the first day’s incorrect insertion. Liability is limited to the cost of the space rendered.

Employment

Employment

Apts. For Rent

Apts. For Rent

Apts. For Rent

Houses/Rent

Houses/Rent

BARTENDER/SERVERS; barbacks, House of Eden Rock now hiring all. Great money. Training. ttle.ellis@ yahoo.com or apply within.

NOW HIRING! Pollard Banknote is looking for p/t entry-level Customer Account Reps for our call center located in Lansing, MI. If you have customer service exp, and exc communication skills we want you! Interested candidates email your resume to jobs@ neopollard.com

AUG ‘15, Studio and 1 bdrm Apts. heat/water/parking included. Great location,top cond. hudginsrealty.com 517 575-0008, no pets.

LARGE 2 bedroom apts. available Fall 2015. Free heat. Remodeled kitchens/ baths. Central air, lots of closets, on-site parking w/ carports. Call 308-0415 or visit www.dtnmgt.com

RALEIGH HOUSE Apartments. $699 special.

2 bdrm 2 bath. Private entrances, wooded setting, balconies, pet friendly & w/d hookups. Won’t last! raleighhouseapartments.com or call 517224-5008.

2015 HOUSES. Licensed 3,4,5,6,7,8. Super Locations + Excellent Conditions! 517490-3082

SPACIOUS 4/6 BDRM Lic. 6/4. d/w + w/d. security deposit + utilities 517 599 5731

269 HAGADORN lic 4; Lg 4br/1600. 312-550-6745 eclausen@hotmail.com

Misc. For Sale

CALL CENTER supervisors needed. Manage outgoing phone calls for Non Profits.

29 hrs/week. $9.10-$9.65/ hr + bonuses. Evening and weekend hours. Training provided. Call (517) 3321500 and ask for Unaa’ or Rusha.

CLARA’S RESTAURANT now hiring. Apply in person M-F btwn 2-4. 637 E. Mi. Ave. 517-372-7120 HIRING SERVERS and cooks at Reno’s East Sports Bar. Apply in person, 1310 Abbot Road.

IMMEDIATE OPENINGS $15.50 base-appt. flex sched. around classes, customer & sales service. workforstudents.com or Call 517-333-1700 MICHIGAN CERTIFIED K-6 teacher needed. Shabazz Public School Academy.

Send cover letter and resume to Dr. Valarie Bellas at figtree485@yahoo.com

VAN ATTA’S flower shop seeking an organized & creative person w/ excellent customer service skills.

25-40 hours/week. Van Atta’s nursery is looking for a wreath maker from Nov. 1st through the holiday season. Apply in person at Van Atta’s 9008 Old M-78 in Haslett.

Apts. For Rent ADORABLE STUDIOS across from MSU, remodeled kitchens with d/w, m/w, intercom entry, internet, basic satellite TV, furn + unfurn. Avail August 2014, lic for 2 from $350 per person. 517-4893071.

AVAILABLE 2015. 4 bedroom apts located next to Brody. Currently 1-one bedroom left for individual lease. Partially furnished.

Washer/dryer. Central a/c.

Cable & Internet Included.

Starting at $600 per person.

517-507-5572.

BOGUE/GRAND RIVER 2 bed, 1 bath d/w, a/c on site w/d. Lic. 2. 351-0765. hrirentals.com IMMEDIATE AVAILABILITY. 2 bdrm apt homes.

Garages, carports, huge living spaces, pet friendly, washer and dryer in every apt, 24 hr fitness, free tanning and more. October leasing specials. Ask how to receive a bonus $100 gift card. Call today 888-6535449 or huntersridgetownhomes.com

NOT BIG on typical? Check out Woodside! Large one bdrms w/ cool layout in a quiet residential neighborhood. On CATA, minutes from downtown EL. Enjoy a balcony, dishwasher & microwave. Call 517-2331108.

ST ANNE Lofts Downtown EL. Luxury studio, 1 and 2 bedrooms avail Fall ‘15.

Partially furnished, dog friendly, in-home washer/ dryer. 517-224-1080.

Houses/Rent 1-4 PERSON apartments across from MSU. Visit us soon at housesforrent.com..

332-8600. No pets.

· Walking distance to MSU · 2 - 3 bedrooms · Fitness Room · Business Center · 24/7 maintenance · Pet Friendly · Free Cata Bus Pass · Immediate move-in available

October Rent Free

www.2900placeapartments.com 517-351-5199

‘15 AUG Houses for rent. 2 houses left. Lic 4 people. www.gutowmgt.com or 517749-4767.

‘15 AUGUST Amazing deals. Clean homes lic. for 3-8 people. Bairdrentals. com 517-481-6313.

2015 Houses. Lic 3-6. 517202-0920, msurentals@ gmail.com, www.msustudentrentals.com

3-4 LIC. BR Houses for rent near campus. 2015/2016.

Call for list. 517-482-3624.

AUG’15 Apts for rent. Great locations,top cond. hudginsrealty.com 517 575-0008, no pets AVAIL AUG Lic. 4-7. Walk to campus. msu-shrentals. com, call Julia at 517-2149354 AWESOME HOUSE, 251 Gunson. Lic. 2. $650 per person. No Pets,hot tub, a/c, w/d,big bbq, garage, 333-9595 HOUSES AVAIL & Apts.

Aug. leases, lic 2-6. 517351-0765 or hrirentals.com.

Now leasing LIC FOR 4 and 5. Close to campus. Excellent rates.

Call 517-410-1198 or 517203-5157

T u e s day, O c tob e r 1 4, 2 01 4

$50 PER piece - 5 (like new) black metallic file cabinets w/ 1 drawer above the file cabinet on wheels. 2.5 ft. x 1.5 ft. x 2 ft. Originally $110 a piece. Ability to lock the file cabinet & drawers. All 5 original keys with these file cabinets. Contact: ottova@ msu.edu or 517-256-9552.

Automotive 1972 CHEVY half-ton truck.

Green + White. Two-wheel drive. Like New. All original. $9,500 or best offer. Call 517-646-6013.

Business Opp. GRADUATE DEBT Free.

Start a business for $54.

For more info go to: http:// www.54-Dollar-Solution.com

Th e Stat e N e ws

11

Features Students start co-ed business fraternity at MSU

Hospitality business sophomore Allie Delgado makes a sales pitch on Sunday for a bottle of bubbles as part of the recruitment for Pi Sigma Epsilon at the Eugene C. Eppley Center. Pi Sigma Epsilon is a new coed business fraternity on campus.

Pi Sigma Epsilon welcomes all students to try their hand at sales and marketing

PHOTO: AERIKA WILLIAMS

By Meagan Beck mbeck@statenews.com

During the spring semester of 2014, supply chain management junior Aaron London decided he wanted to get down to business.

London approached his friend, supply chain management junior Duy Le, with the idea of bringing business-based fraternity Pi Sigma Epsilon to campus.

After contacting the headquarters of the organization, obtaining permission from the Eli Broad College of Business and writing the constitution, the pair had completed the list of requirements to start up the Eta Beta chapter at MSU. London, who is the president of the organization, said his brother was a member of Pi Sigma Epsilon at Central Michigan University, which sparked the idea to open a chapter at MSU. “It seemed like a cool organization because they’re creative with their events. And all the business organizations we were involved with before … seemed set in their ways and seemed like as a general member you never got a say in anything,” London said.

Le said the group welcomes the ideas of all members, whether on the executive board or a general member.

“Though (the organization) is very structured, like a business, it’s a very entrepreneurial type of business fraternity,” Le said.

While Pi Sigma Epsilon focuses on sales and marketing, they welcome people of all majors, and unlike other greek letter organizations, Pi Sigma Epsilon has both male and female members.

12

The State N e ws

Tuesday, October 1 4, 2 01 4

Le said he sees having both genders in the organization as an advantage.

“Guys have a different way of thinking and we have certain ideas, but when girls come into play, they definitely give us a different perspective,” Le said.

Since Pi Sigma Epsilon is a newer organization, Le and London said the fraternity wants to grow more before holding philanthropy events but plans to hold them in the future, specifically for cancer awareness and research because of the late Lacey Holsworth, Adreian Payne’s companion, who succumbed to the disease last year.

“We feel like it’s already connected to the student body so a lot of people would want to come out and donate,” London said.

Currently, the fraternity has been working on their business skills and practicing for their first competition in November.

Competitions include simulations for marketing strategy and public speaking.

“The purpose of PSE is to enhance people’s business skills, share experience and network,” Le said.

This fall marked the fraternity’s first recruitment period, which began Oct. 6 and finished on Oct. 12, when potential new members were asked to sell an item to the current members.

Marketing sophomore Joseph Wylie said he decided to join to gain more knowledge about sales and marketing and prepare for MSU’s business college.

“It’s been a great opportunity so far and I look forward to learning more about the major I’m in,” Wylie said.

“Guys have a different way of thinking and we have certain ideas, but when girls come into play, they definitely give us a different perspective.”

Duy Le supply chain management junior