Breaking news, blogs and more at TCNJSignal.net. Vol. XLVI, No. 11
InFocus to provide mental health services
By Michelle Lampariello Nation & World Editor
Students will soon see changes in their health care options for both medical and mental health come the Fall 2017 semester. Once this semester ends, the TCNJ Clinic, which provides long-term mental care for students will close. Shortly thereafter on June 1, Campus Town’s InFocus Urgent Care will open its doors to students, offering both mental and physical health options. “We have a small space for student counseling that is going to be a separate space from the urgent care (where there will be) counselors and clinical psychiatrists,” said Dr. Seeta Arjun, the head doctor and owner of InFocus Urgent Care. Although a carbon monoxide alarm went off in urgent care on Thursday, April 6, the construction schedule was not affected, according to Arjun. The urgent care will be a resource for “any type of non-life threatening injury,” Arjun said. Those in need of X-rays, sutures, IV fluids or a diagnosis for
April 12, 2017
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Kesha’s ‘True Colors’ shine in concert By Mia Ingui Opinions Editor
mental health care facility adjacent to the campus. “(InFocus) saw an opportunity and a need. After having discussions with us, they realized that there was a need for a long-term mental health care component,” said Dr. Mark Forest, director of counseling and psychological services at the College.
Under bright blue strobe lights, 2,600 tightly packed students coated in glitter belted the lyrics to “We R Who We R” along with Kesha. Kesha paused mid-song. “Anything outside of these four walls that is bringing you down or bumming you out… there’s no room for that shit tonight,” she said. A roar from the audience and Kesha continued, “We cordially invite you to put your middle fingers up, and just for tonight, say, ‘Fuck the world!’” The crowd in the Student Recreation Center went wild. Kesha’s Fuck the World Tour landed at the College on the night of Friday, April 7, evoking nostalgia and empowerment from the College’s students. Since Kesha first released her album “Animal” in 2010, most students at the College grew up listening to her music, so they were excited to revisit some of their favorite throwbacks like “Tik Tok” and “Your Love is my Drug.”
see URGENT page 7
see SPRING page 23
InFocus opens at the same time that TCNJ Clinic will close.
symptoms such as a sore throat will be able to have these procedures taken care of at the Urgent Care. Those with more serious health issues like appendicitis can be evaluated at the urgent care, but will be sent to the hospital. InFocus Urgent Care is still able to aid mental health patients who cannot be treated at the facility. “If someone needs in-patient care, we’ll be able to provide that
College helps student careers after graduation By Ashton Leber Social Media Editor Studying for finals, scrambling with projects and cramming in papers is the way most college students end their roller coaster ride of a semester. For seniors, applying to jobs for post-graduation is added into that mix of stressors. While endlessly searching for job openings, students can often forget that they are not alone in the process. The Career Center is a campus resource available to help critique résumés, perfect cover letters and prepare a student for interviews. Debra Kelly, director of the Career Center, said the average job search can range from six months to one year, and students should start the process early. “Some studies show that those using the Career Center early reflects on their job search,” Kelly said. “My impression is students appear confident when they have a plan.” According to Kelly, 97 percent of alumni from the College who completed the one-year out survey from the class of 2015 were in graduate school or employed full time. see CAREER page 7
referral,” Arjun said. The mental health portion of the urgent care will also be located in Campus Town, but in a different area from the mavin urgent care location. The mental health component was included after a series of meetings between the urgent care and the College, during which it was determined that the College would benefit from having the urgent care as a long-term
Jason Proleika / Photo Editor
Students win $30,000 in business plan competition
By Miguel Gonzalez Sports Editor
After months of hard work, three teams of students found themselves in the final round of the seventh annual Mayo Business Plan Competition on Wednesday, April 5, in room 212 of the Education Building. Each team had to put together a business plan before the end of January if they wanted to compete. The goal of the competition is to “increase student appreciation for the challenge of developing a viable business,” according to the competition’s website. Nineteen teams originally competed in the first round in February, but in April, only three remained: Neo Book, a mobile application that allows students to trade and purchase textbooks through their phones; Handl, an app that allows users to outsource daily tasks; and Noble Pursuit, a small consulting firm to help small- and medium-sized businesses achieve corporate social responsibility. A half hour after presentations, the judges made their decision. Handl won first place with a prize amount of $30,000, followed by Neo Book, which won $14,000. Noble Pursuit finished in third place with a prize amount of $6,000. According to School of Business Dean William W. Keep, each team had 30 minutes to present, and judges could interrupt at any time. This year’s judge panel included four
INDEX: Nation & World / page 11 Editorial / page 13 Social Change Follow us at... Alumnae activists can change the world The Signal See Features page 19 @tcnjsignal
Miguel Gonzalez / Sports Editor
Gambardella explains the concept behind Handl. alumni, Eric Szabo (’97), Tracey Caliendo (’00), Joseph Haddock (’97), Gloria Weissbart (’78), and guest Stacy Mattia, a senior banker and senior vice president of Ocean First Bank. Team Neo Book, led by sophomore computer science major Spencer Viviano and junior marketing major Neophytos Zambas, presented first. Students can register their textbooks to the app by scanning the book’s International Standard Book Number, according to Zambas. The duo hopes to start their business at the College and then spread
Opinions / page 15
Features / page 19
throughout the tri-state area. “This competition has been an amazing experience,” Viviano said. “(Neophytos) and I received so much valuable advice from the judges. Quite frankly, I didn’t think we would make our idea come true. At first, we thought about just purchasing books and selling them at a table by Eickhoff. We got this far with patience, resilience and days of hard work. We saw our vision through the end.” see MAYO page 9
Arts & Entertainment / page 23
Sports / page 32
WIRED Students write plays within 24 hours
Lacrosse Lions No. 1 in nation after pair of wins
See A&E page 23
See Sports page 32
page 2 The Signal April 12, 2017
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April 12, 2017 The Signal page 3
Brown Bag discusses using social media for social change By Ashley Skowronek Staff Writer
Taming the media monster is easier than you think. The Brown Bag Lecture series invited Hilary Woodward, digital director for the National Women’s Law Center of Washington D.C., on Friday, April 7, to discuss the ways nonprofits can leverage social media for advocacy and public education. “Don’t think you have the money and resources to throw at advertising like other big organizations?” Woodward said. “You do. Social media allows us to reach new audiences and have an impact.” Nonprofits can succeed in using social media by capitalizing on the self-interests of its users by posting content that validates people and gives them a role to play. The goal is to generate content the audience wants to be seen interacting with. “We share smart things if we want to look smart, funny things if we want to look funny,” Woodward said. Platforms like Facebook and Twitter reward the most popular, engaging content because they make money off return visitors. User-generated content is converted into views, then transformed into cash through advertisements. Understanding the systems’ monetizing processes is key — nonprofits can post content that meets organizational goals, but will
Woodward explains how advocacy groups use social media.
not be seen on users’ timelines. “All of social media is a business,” Woodward said. “Algorithms determine what you see on your newsfeed timeline and are entirely based off how you interact with the platform.” Facebook’s ability to connect like-minded people and galvanize support has spurred some of the most successful social campaigns in history, including the Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Ice Bucket Challenge, the Black
Lives Matter movement and the Women’s March. Peer pressure from friends and family was a driving factor of each movement’s success as users could see who was participating in activist events and making donations. “I think what was more important than the Women’s March being started on Facebook was that it was organized on Facebook,” Woodward said. “Every user had a role to play, their
Jason Proleika / Photo Editor
place in it drove smaller posts and change on social media.” With a slew of users itching to board the bandwagon, the popularity of digital advocacy has given rise to a phenomenon known as “slacktivism,” or actions performed via the internet — like signing an online petition or clicking a button to join an online group — that requires little involvement and does not contribute to change. Slacktivists were ousted on
“Saturday Night Live” on Saturday, April 8, during a digital short starring the host, comedian Louis C. K., entitled, “Thank you, Scott.” In it, he decides to act after seeing atrocities on the news, rising from his couch to march straight to his laptop to update his Twitter bio in solidarity. “Change doesn’t happen because of social media, but it’s a driver for it,” Woodward said. One of the National Women’s Law Center’s most effective social media campaigns illuminated racial bias and stereotypes African American girls face in school, resulting in harsher punishments like suspension. The video went viral, receiving seven million views on Facebook and coverage from media outlets nationwide. “We needed funding and it’s hard to ask for, so we created a video to tell people about a problem,” Woodward said. “The short video was designed for social media. For example, most people watch videos online with no sounds, so we included captions.” The video sparked a conversation, leading to a gain in supporters and funding for the organization. Woodward cited authenticity as a vital characteristic of channels and content, which is needed to show users that the social media page’s admins care. “You can be really good at social media and not make a difference in the world,” Woodward said.
Students take one down, pass it around, get arrested for underage drinking
By Brielle Bryan Production Manager
Drinkers unite Four Campus Police officers were dispatched to Wolfe Hall on March 27 at approximately 11:25 p.m. following the report of an intoxicated person. Upon their arrival, they spoke to a community adviser who said he observed vomit in one of the hallways of Wolfe Hall. According to Campus Police, the CA also stated that one of the residents approached him, advising there was an intoxicated person throwing up in one of the rooms. The CA identified the individual, whom Campus Police observed to be lying on the edge of a bed with a trash can in between his feet. Campus Police said the intoxicated student’s name, but he did not respond. Campus Police then shook the intoxicated student’s shoulders, who then sat up on the bed. Campus Police asked the student how much alcohol he had consumed. According to police reports, the intoxicated student denied drinking, but then proceeded to vomit in a trash can. Campus Police found three empty 1.75-liter bottles of vodka behind the intoxicated student’s bed. Pro-staff and Ewing Basic Life Support arrived at the scene. At approximately 11:35 p.m., TCNJ EMS also arrived on scene. A different CA on the same floor of Wolfe was advised by a resident of another intoxicated, vomiting student, police said. Campus Police arrived at the room of the second suspected male student to find him sitting on a bed, vomiting in a trash can and covered in vomit.
According to Campus Police, there was a strong odor of alcohol emanating from the male student. Campus Police also observed that the male student’s sink was overflowing, covering the floor in water. Facilities and Building Services was then dispatched to the scene, police said. A 1.75-liter bottle of Bacardi Rum was recovered from underneath a desk in the room. Campus Police emptied the bottle and removed it from the residence. The second intoxicated student’s roommate was next door, and he told Campus Police that he was in the room with both intoxicated students when they started drinking, according to police reports. The roommate stated that he did not drink and had left shortly after his two friends had started drinking. The roommate also advised Campus Police that the two intoxicated students took an unknown amount of shots. Around midnight, Ewing BLS transported the two intoxicated students to the hospital, and they were not charged for drinking under the 911 Lifeline Amnesty Act.
Smoker caught red-handed At approximately 3:30 p.m. on April 2, a Campus Police officer was on vehicle patrol when she observed two male students who appeared to be smoking on the top floor stairwell of Lot 13. When the officer opened the door of the stairwell, she immediately smelled the odor of burnt marijuana. One of the male students threw half of a smoked Cigarillo on the stair below him, police said. The officer asked who the Cigarillo containing the suspected marijuana belonged to. The male who threw the Cigarillo stated that it belonged to him.
The officer placed the male who admitted to smoking the Cigarillo under arrest and searched him. According to police reports, the other male student was frisked for weapons with negative results and was released without further incident. Campus Police took the Cigarillo into possession for evidence collection where it was photographed and inventoried. The male student who admitted to possessing the Cigarillo was transported back to Police Headquarters and placed on the arrest bench. He was fingerprinted and photographed for processing. The male student was issued a summons for possession of marijuana under 50 grams and possession of drug paraphernalia. The male student was released without incident at 5:37 p.m.
Another bike villain? At approximately 10:15 p.m. on April 2, a security officer went into Campus Police’s bicycle shed at Police Headquarters to retrieve his bicycle for his evening patrol. The security officer noticed that his front black strobe light, a Cygo Light Metro valued at $53.39, and his rear orange strobe light, a Cat Eye Rapid X2 valued at $52.95, were both missing and found them mounted on another individual’s personal bicycle located in the same shed. The security officer said there was no reason for anyone to remove his personal property from his patrol bicycle without his permission, according to police reports. The security officer was advised by Campus Police that the owner of the bicycle with his stolen property was a contracted employee working in
Travers Hall. Two Campus Police officers went to Travers Hall to speak to the contracted employee. Upon their arrival, they advised the contracted employee of the situation, who stated that he rode his bike one evening to Travers and Wolfe halls for his shift and was almost hit by a vehicle. The contracted employee said he saw the lights on the security officer’s bicycle a few days later and did not think it would be a problem if he mounted them on his bicycle to improve his safety riding to and from Travers and Wolfe halls in the future, according to Campus Police. The employee was advised by Campus Police that the bicycles in Campus Police’s bicycle shed are Campus Police-owned bicycles, assigned to security personnel for their patrols. These bicycles and are outfitted with various equipment, purchased by the individual officers, as needed for their work, police said. Campus Police told the contracted employee that although he had been given permission to store his bicycle in the shed, he was not entitled to take, use or borrow any items located there. Campus Police told the contracted employee that he removed and possessed property that wasn’t his without permission of the owner. The contracted employee apologized for his actions and wished to apologize to the security officer, police said. The security officer refused to press any charges concerning the matter. Anyone with information can contact Campus Police at 609-771-2345.
page 4 The Signal April 12, 2017
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SG approves variety of new campus clubs April 12, 2017 The Signal page 5
Left: SG discusses recognizing three new clubs. Right: Presenters propose their new club to SG.
By Megan Kelly Staff Writer
Student Government approved three new clubs on Wednesday, April 5. The first club, the College Diabetes Network, has been holding bi-weekly meetings since September and “creates a unique and resourceful community for individuals with diabetes,” according to the Governmental Affairs Committee. The College Diabetes Network is recognized by the National College Diabetes Network Organization and thus won’t need to be funded by the Student Finance Board, as the national organization sends a stipend to the group here at the College. The College Diabetes Network
only seeks the College’s recognition to be able to spread the word about their club and be able to book a consistent meeting space. So far, the College Diabetes Network has 21 members: 16 freshmen, one sophomore and four juniors. The next club to present, the Anthropology Society, is a place for students interested in anthropology to meet and discuss anthropological topics. The club has the support of many anthropology professors and also has a strong member count: the Anthropology Society has 45 members so far. The society has had meetings and events, such as movie screenings and speakers. The society had previously been a club on campus before but was de-recognized last year. Since then, the club
Jason Proleika / Photo Editor
has “since reinvigorated students in the organization’s purpose,” said the Governmental Affairs Committee. The last club to present was Health Occupations Students of America: Future Health Professionals. This club also receives national recognition, this time from the National HOSA Organization. HOSA works to allow students interested in entering the medical field opportunities to participate in case competitions. HOSA was seeking recognition from the College for several different reasons: to “open more doors” with the national organization, provide resources for students, a regular room to meet in and advancement privileges. Currently, HOSA has 35 members, but is hoping to work with the School of Health and Exercise Science and the School of Science to grow its membership.
College is 32nd best public college in America, says Business First
The College jumped up 10 spots in Business First’s ranking.
By Nicole DeStefano Staff Writer
In a study conducted by Business First, a Buffalo-based publication owned by American City Business Journals Inc, the College was placed 32nd out of 499 four-year public institutions across the country. The study was designed to distinguish which public universities and colleges offer their students the best educational experiences. The study focused on public institutions because they generally offer the least expensive tuitions. Selective admissions processes, earnings by alumni, strong retention and graduation rates, resources, reasonable tuition and housing costs and diverse faculties and student bodies were all factors that affected each score. Business First calculated rates
and percentages of raw data from the National Center for Education Statistics and the five-year version of the U.S. Census Bureau’s 2015 American Community Survey. The College took a 10-spot leap from its 42nd ranking last year, totaling 70.319 ranking points to land it in 32nd. It also placed second among the 12 New Jersey institutions included in the rankings, just falling behind No. 25: Rutgers University. “I am always gratified when I see that TCNJ and/or TCNJ programs are recognized for quality and performance by third parties,” College President R. Barbara Gitenstein said. Despite this, Gitenstein does not think of school improvement in numbers, but rather people. “Frankly, I do not purposely seek to improve rankings for TCNJ — I seek to improve performance
Sydney Shaw / Former Editor-in-Chief
and student success,” Gitenstein said. “Usually that leads to improvement in values rankings.” Getting into the College is not a simple task for a high school senior. The College boasts a competitive admission rate of 48.7 percent, admitting only 5,495 out of the 11,290 applicants in 2015, according to Business First. Not only are potential students excited to become a part of the College community, but once they begin their college career, most do not want to leave. The College has an impressive retention rate — in 2014, the retention rate was 94.8 percent. Out of 1,414 new undergraduates, only 74 did not return. “One of the features that suggests institutional success is retention rate,” Gitenstein said. “When a student returns to a campus for sophomore year, it indicates usually that the student
has been successful academically and developmentally and that the admission process was a thoughtful one — assuring a good match between student and institution.” The College also guides students on the right path to graduate on time. Of the 1,283 undergraduates that entered the College in 2009, 918 graduated within four years — a rate of 71.6 percent. For those graduating with a bachelor’s degree within six years, the rate was 84.06 percent. Once in the work force, alumni with annual earnings above $25,000 (six years after entering school) is 79.5 percent. The median annual earning for alumni after 10 years of entering school is $56,000. Not only does the College offer students a great education, it also offers a great price. For the 2015-16 school year, the published in-state tuition and fees came to $15,466, book and supplies to $1,200 and on-campus room and board to $12,498. The average net price for undergraduates on a scholarship came to $20,146. In return, the College averages $13,860 per full-time undergraduate student for instructional spending. It’s no surprise that many New Jersey residents are drawn to the selective institution. In 2015, 92.6 percent of new undergraduate students were from the College’s home state. While that may seem like an overwhelming number, students feel that it provides a more tight-knit community and sense of home. “I think over the past four years
at TCNJ, this has been very beneficial to me,” said Stephanie Zarra, a senior nursing major. “Every time I go home for winter break and summer break, I was easily able to meet up with friends because we all live so close to each other. Graduating this May, I know that it’ll be very easy to maintain college friendships because of how easily we can see each other.” Gitenstein hopes the College’s reputation will be recognized across the nation. “The fact that TCNJ continues to be so attractive to N.J. students is wonderful, but I would hope that over the years we would continue to grow our out-of-state student population,” Gitenstein said. “The most important reason for doing so is that by increasing outof-state enrollment, we continue to grow the diversity of our population — in background and in perspective. In addition, of course, by increasing our recognition out of the state, we enhance our institutional reputation.” Gitenstein believes the College has the means to accomplish this already. “TCNJ is a wonderful combination of academic program, challenging leadership opportunities and competitive (Division III) athletics,” Gitenstein said. “We have impressive facilities and extraordinary faculty. The type of faculty and staff who gravitate to TCNJ are the type of mentors who help our students develop as young professionals prepared to enter competitive graduate schools and/ or the work force.”
page 6 The Signal April 12, 2017
April 12, 2017 The Signal page 7
Urgent / InFocus’ mental health component replaces TCNJ Clinic continued from page 1
The opening of InFocus Urgent Care coincides with the closing of the clinic in Forcina Hall at the end of the academic year. The clinic serves both students and community members as a connection to the counselor education program for graduate students to gain experience under supervision. Community members particularly benefited from the marriage and family counseling component of the clinic. While CAPS will remain the primary mental health resource on campus following the close of the clinic and the opening of the urgent care, CAPS focuses on shortterm care, as in students who need a semester or less of counseling. “Some students benefit from more ongoing mental health care (and CAPS) traditionally used the clinic to refer students with longer term issues,” Forest said. The clinic in Forcina Hall was a helpful tool for CAPS when a student needed long-term mental health care, especially if they did not have any means of getting off campus. “For some students, especially the ones with no car, it was convenient to refer them there,” Forest said. With the clinic closing, there was a need for long-term mental health resources for students, especially those who cannot have cars on campus.
InFocus is under construction in Campus Town. “There aren’t a lot (of mental health resources) within walking distance. We did struggle with that — it’s easier when we have something adjacent. I feel really excited that there will be someone in Campus Town, especially (for) students with transportation issues and have longer term needs,” Forest said. InFocus Urgent Care recognizes the opportunity to fill the gap in long-term mental health care left by the closing of the clinic. “(The College) could use the help for students so that they don’t need to leave campus, especially if they need long-term care,” Arjun said. Vice President for Student Affairs Amy Hecht sent an email to the campus community on Monday, April 10, explaining InFocus
Urgent Care as a long-term mental health resource for students after the TCNJ Clinic closes, especially for students who are not able to leave the campus easily. “We are happy to announce that ‘In Focus Urgent Care’ will not only be providing urgent medical care to the surrounding community, but will also have licensed mental health professionals on staff to offer longer-term counseling to TCNJ students in need of these services,” Hecht said. Many students do not have cars on campus, especially during their freshman year. InFocus Urgent Care’s Campus Town location eliminates students’ need to travel for mental or physical health care that on campus health services cannot provide. “I think having an urgent care
Jason Proleika / Photo Editor
is going to be a good, convenient resource for students,” said Kerstin Baran, a freshman biology major. CAPS plans to maintain a strong relationship with the Urgent Care and work as a team to promote student wellness. “I will continue to have an ongoing, collaborative relationship with the director of the urgent care,” Forest said. Dean of Students and Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs Angela Chong is happy to see the addition of InFocus Urgent Care to the list of student resources. “It’s bringing mental health and medical health resources within walking distance to campus for our students, and that’s an amazing opportunity,” Chong said. “I’m always going to support any resources to augment wellness.”
The medical and mental health resources that InFocus Urgent Care will provide are equally important for students and community members. “Both physical and mental health are critical. I wouldn’t prioritize one over the other. We think of wellness in a holistic way,” Chong said. Students are anticipating the opening of the urgent care as an additional wellness resource. “I think it’s is really beneficial because even though health services is a good tool, an urgent care offers more services that are especially good in a college environment, but it’s also good for the Ewing community, too,” said Abby Roberts, a freshman health and exercise science major. Students believe that having InFocus Urgent Care as an additional health resource will help them continue to lead healthy, productive lifestyles. “I feel that adding the urgent care center is setting a great foundation to ensure that our students have access to medical resources that will maintain proper health and provide the campus community the opportunity to stay healthy and be continuously productive on campus,” said Ryan Forkel, a sophomore health and exercise science major. InFocus Urgent Care currently has a location in West Windsor, N.J., and looks forward to adding a second location in Campus Town.
Career / Survey reveals College alumni succeed after graduation continued from page 1
The one-year out survey results provided by the Career Center focused on job placements, location of employment and top employers. From the survey, Bank of America/Merrill Lynch, the College, Amazon and Johnson & Johnson were among the top leading employers of the 2015 graduating class. College alumna Raya Brashear-Evans (’16), who now works as a 3D artist and animator for CBS News, said it’s essential in the recruiting process for prospective employees to remember that connections in the job world are everything. “Think about it, hundreds of applications are scanned and weeded off by machines every day,” Evans said. “But it’s those personal interactions with hiring managers that really set you apart from everyone else.” When Evans was an undergraduate student at the College, she double majored in journalism and professional writing and interactive multimedia. Joining organizations that related to her field
of study allowed her to put to use what she learned in the classroom. “Being a member of the Student Film Union gave me practice on my 3D art skills as well as taught me valuable filmmaking skills that ended up being transferable into the job I have today,” Evans said. Following their education, 68 percent of respondents found that they were career ready and that the College provided them above average preparation, according to the survey. Kelly explained a key component to landing a job is to gain experience by completing an internship and building your network. In a recent survey conducted by the National Association of Colleges and Employers, 52 percent of participants had job offers from their internship before graduation. Alumni from the College had an average of two internships and 38 percent secured employment through their internship following graduation, according to Kelly. Pat McSorley, a senior accounting major, said he would not have had an internship or job lined up for post-graduation if
it weren’t for the Career Center. “I have held three internship-type programs and two of the three led me to receive full-time job offers,” McSorley said. “I went into my senior year of college with an offer from Merrill Lynch as well as Deloitte.” McSorley accepted an offer from Deloitte, an accounting firm, and will be working full time after graduating in May. “The Career Center helped me review my résumé. Getting a job is all about being in the right place at the right time and that’s exactly what they did,” McSorley said. Connecting with others through the TCNJ Alumni LinkedIn group can sometimes be a foot in the door, according to Kelly. Alumni often like to help current students and recent graduates enhance their network. “Use social media to your advantage. Keep your LinkedIn account updated with a picture, summary, profile and endorsements,” Kelly said. According to NACE, “use of social media in the job search has grown from 37 percent in 2010 to 58 percent in 2014.”
The Career Center organizes a biannual Career Fair to help students find jobs.
Kim Iannarone / Staff Photographer
Evans said reaching out to companies and seeking career advice leaves a lasting impression of assertiveness. “Stay abreast of the hiring patterns of certain companies you’re interested in and network, network, network,” she said. It’s important for students to have a plan and be resourceful when applying to jobs. Kelly explained that employers connect with new graduates through job boards, and for the College, LionsLink is that tool. Kelly advised that even if students feel they don’t need to use the Career Center, it can always be beneficial. Career counselors are dedicated in assisting students with a plan of action, increasing resources and evaluating skill sets. Often, students hit roadblocks during the application process and “tend not to see what they can do but what they can’t,” Kelly said. By starting the strenuous search for employment sooner rather than later, a student can save time and find that progress can be contagious, according to Kelly. “It is always fun to be the one that has the full time position or graduate school fellowship lined up before graduation,” Kelly said. “However, if you are someone who crams for the final somehow you may be the person that crams in the job search.” Remembering that you won’t be making a six figure income at your first job is something to keep in mind. “Check your ego at the door,” Evans said. “The goal should be to gather experience for the first two to three years and then go for what you think.” Most importantly, Kelly said that during the vigorous job search process it’s important to remember the basics. “Breathe. Continue your hobbies, volunteerism and interests. Or take up a new hobby,” she said.
page 8 The Signal April 12, 2017
April 12, 2017 The Signal page 9
Speaker promotes autism acceptance in lecture By Alyssa Apuzzio Staff Writer
The stiff fabric from his shirt rubbing uncomfortably on his exposed skin, the itchy lanyard constricting around his neck and the clangorous vent blowing above disrupted his work and triggered his sensory elements. This is how David Finch described his experience with his first full-time job out of college as a software developer, and as an adult with Asperger’s Syndrome. “The corporate environment isn’t meant for people on the spectrum,” Finch said. “People can’t concentrate because of sitting under fluorescent lights that might buzz and noises such as a pen clicking, shoe shuffling and conversation right next to you.” Finch gave a lecture on Wednesday, April 5, in honor of Autism Awareness Month. Some students in the audience were wearing blue in support of the cause. Hosted by Friendship and Unity for Special Education, Finch spoke in room 113 of the Education Building about the challenges for those with special needs. Senior dual secondary education and i-STEM major Mariah Belber, co-president of FUSE, said FUSE also brought Finch to the College last year during Autism Acceptance Month. “I really enjoy Finch’s talks about how we can make the world more accessible for everybody,” Belber said. “As a special education major, I’m more about differentiated teaching and work settings.” Diagnosed with Asperger’s when he was 30, Finch is very knowledgeable about
Joanna Felsenstein / Staff Photographer
Finch explains how those on the spectrum can have trouble focusing. Asperger’s and autism. “Outside of my wife and myself, I originally couldn’t go around telling people I had a mild case of autism,” Finch said. “There was, and still is to an extent, a negative stigma associated with a person who is on the autistic spectrum.” Finch said people view those on the spectrum as not the right type when, in reality, their “constellations are aligned differently.” Most people do not view society as neurodiverse, according to Finch. “The fact you aren’t, let’s say, for example, a type one brain and you are instead a type two brain, it makes people think those on the spectrum are different in a bad way,” Finch said. “However, autism as more of a collection or a clustering of different underlying conditions, which come together and manifest differently
Mayo / Handl app wins competition continued from page 1 Afterwards, team Handl came up front to present. Led by junior marketing major Carolina Gamarra, senior finance major Tyler Gambardella and senior interactive multimedia major Patrick Monaghan, the presentation emphasized how Handl can provide extra income for students looking for casual work. Commissioned and certified employees called Handlers can offer labor services to clients such as cleaning kitchens, according to the group. Handl users can monitor their Handler’s progress and pay their hours through PayPal or credit. The group said Handl’s first target market will be Ewing Township, N.J. In addition, Gamarra briefed the room on Handl’s marketing strategy through the use of campus representatives, social media hashtags such as #Handlthis and search engine optimization with GoDaddy. “I’m a big believer in everything happens for a reason and I’m so happy that I jumped at this opportunity when it was presented to me,” Gamarra said. Gamarra recruited Monaghan while both were studying in London last year. “I have London to thank for this great opportunity.” Monaghan said. Noble Pursuit, led by senior management major Kristen Borowski, senior accounting major Carmella
Campisano, senior interactive multimedia and communication studies double major Matthew Newman and senior marketing and communication studies double major Sarah Wallin, defined corporate social responsibility as businesses benefitting society and promoting charity. “We want local companies to institute philanthropy just like larger firms do,” Campisano said. “We had the pleasure of meeting great business owners and getting realworld experience.” The team argued that Noble Pursuit can help small businesses establish better reputations within their communities. Campisano showcased Noble Pursuit’s influence by exemplifying their consultation work for SmallWorld Coffee in Princeton,N.J. and Artworks in Trenton, N.J. “It all starts with a simple idea,” Borowski said. “Then, writing, synthesizing and executing it. We all had to utilize our marketing and management skills we learned at the classroom. From the start, our group had good attitude, drive and passion to finalize our business plan. I’m so proud of everyone.” The Handl team is putting all of the money into app development. “Winning the Mayo Competition is a humbling experience, and we want to honor that accomplishment by forming a legitimate business venture out of it,” Gambardella said.
Jason Proleika / Photo Editor
Zambas explains the concept behind Neo Book.
in each person who is autistic.” A myriad of people who are autistic can have skillful organization abilities, attention to detail or have artistic talents, Finch said. In many cases, these skills in those with autism are superior than in those without. “Now, I am comfortable being myself, but prior to that, I knew I was much different than others,” Finch said. “There were things that shouldn’t have been a challenge to me that were, but there were things that came easy to me that other people shied away from, such as writing and playing music.” Finch said he wasn’t looking at his strengths, but his deficits caused by his Asperger’s. After being diagnosed, it gave him a new perspective and he looked at things not as a deficit, but as a difference. While Finch accepts his Asperger’s, he
notes some work and education environments are hard to fit into. “We can be designing (environments) for neurodiversity, such as buildings, and work settings,” Finch said. “When we solve the problems for those with autism, we are helping all of us. Everyone has a dash of autism in them.” Work settings aren’t designed for people who need quiet space or who can’t be bombarded with sensory distractions, such as those on the spectrum, according to Finch. “The issue is not just with the work place, but with education. If a student is acting out or isn’t comfortable, they get placed in time out, or sit in a corner and are practically reprimanded for being autistic,” Finch said. Buildings and rooms aren’t designed for perfect acoustics or a perfect physical environment, according to Finch. Therefore, those on the spectrum can have a difficult time concentrating and working. “Luckily today we have a lot of technology available, and teachers can individualize an experience for their students,” Finch said. “iPads can perform a variety of tasks for children with different learning abilities. We need to make inclusion opportunities so that these students can go out on their own, such as graduating college or moving out.” Finch said neurodiverse approaches and philosophies will not only improve academic and work environment. “Most importantly, they will enhance the lives, health and happiness of people who are on the autism spectrum and their families,” Finch said.
SFB funds Epcot, NYC museum trip
SFB elects its newest executive board at its April 12 meeting.
By Olivia Rizzo Staff Writer
At its latest meeting on Wednesday, April 12, the Student Finance Board funded three culture-focused events and elected its 2017-18 executive board. Students can look forward to sampling the cultural clubs’ offerings at Student Government’s Epcot on May 2. The organization received $5,695 for Epcot, which was previously tabled due to concerns that the event was too focused on entertainment rather than education. “TCNJ’s Epcot is basically an event that brings together students to explore all of the different cultures present on our campus,” said Cassandra Kriegel, vice president of Diversity and Inclusion. “The cultural clubs are able to show campus their club and their culture. It shows how much culture we really have on campus.” Funding will cover the costs of food, a DJ, henna artists, decorations, lighting, inflatables and an electrician.
The Muslim Student Association was fully funded $159.75 for its culminating Islam Awareness Month event Food for Thought on April 20 at 7 p.m. in Bliss Hall Lounge. “We have a diverse group of people on this campus, but one step above that is having all of those diverse people come together. We shouldn’t be split because of our differences, we should come together because of those differences,” said Yasseen Ayuby, MSA’s president. “The purpose is to show that our differences link us together, not separate us.” MSA plans on having many cultural groups represented. “We will have facilitators lead small group discussions before we come together as a larger group for closing remarks,” said Maaha Malik, MSA’s vice president. “We decided to have pizza as a way to attract more people in coming and as a way to ease tensions and give people a moment to think before
Jason Proleika / Photo Editor
they say anything.” Funding will cover the costs of pizza and drinks. The TCNJ French Club received $1,418.40 for its NYC Excursion on April 30. “The trip is open to the whole campus, it’s a really nice way for all students to experience French culture even if they don’t take French classes,” said Allison Smith, president of TCNJ French Club. “We plan on going to the Metropolitan Museum of Art to see the George Secuart exhibition and the French impressionist collection. We also plan on going to La Bonne Soupe, a traditional French restaurant.” Funding will cover the cost of transportation and parking. The board also elected its 2017-18 executive board: junior David Braisted as the operations director, sophomore Lauren Bsales as the administrative director, junior Alex Mulhern as the programming director and sophomore Anthony Raspatello as executive assistant.
page 10 The Signal April 12, 2017
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April 12, 2017 The Signal page 11
Nation & W rld
Arson leads to bridge collapse in Atlanta
AP Photo
Commuters need to rely on alternate routes while repairs occur. By Cait Flynn Staff Writer Georgia Gov. Nathan Deal declared a state of emergency after a section of the I-85 bridge collapsed due to a fire on March 30, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reported.
The collapse impacted more than 250,000 commuters in one of Atlanta’s main traffic arteries, according to USA Today. Authorities arrested three people the next day in connection to the fire that caused the collapse. Basil Eleby, 39, could face 25
years in prison if convicted of felony arson and criminal damage to property charges, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reported. According to the same source, witnesses Sophia Brauer and Barry Andrew Thomas were cited for criminal trespass.
Eleby, Thomas and Brauer had planned to meet under the I-85 bridge at 4 p.m. to smoke crack cocaine, but Eleby decided to smoke all of the drugs himself and then started the fire, according to an affidavit filed by the fire department lieutenant, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reported. Atlanta residents will need to rely on alternative transportation routes to commute in and out of the city, as officials said repairs will take at least several months, USA Today reported. Atlanta officials are looking back to 1996 Olympic plans to determine the most effective traffic plan for commuters. “We handled the Olympics very nicely in Atlanta and I really think that is the closest comparison from a traffic standpoint with what we’re going to be going through over the next four to six weeks,” said Kasim Reed, the
mayor of Atlanta, according to USA Today. Newly appointed U.S. Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao authorized $10 million to replace the northbound and southbound bridge, with the federal and state governments jointly funding the permanent replacement, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reported. Deal’s Chief of Staff Chris Riley stated that President Donald Trump made a call on March 30 to offer his full support, according to the same source. Trump has vowed a $1 trillion investment in infrastructure, CNN reported. According to the American Road and Transportation and Transportation Builders Association, Georgia has hundreds of structurally deficient bridges, but I-85 was considered sound, USA Today reported.
Fatal mudslide in Colombia leaves city in ruins By Eric Preisler Staff Writer
A mudslide swept through Mocoa Colombia and killed 306 people, including 92 children, on March 31, according to Channel News Asia. The flood swept through the city, carrying debris and leveling homes, The New York Times reported. According to the same source, on April 2, the city was cut off from vital resources such as gasoline, clean water and electricity. “There’s not a single drop of drinkable water — we need water, that’s what’s urgent — and there’s nothing to eat,” said Marisol González, the head of a nearby technological institute, according to The New York Times. Heavy rain resulted in the overflowing of three rivers surrounding Mocoa, CNN reported. In the week leading up to the tragedy, it is estimated that the region received between 5 and 8 inches of rain. Further challenges await, as 340 people have been injured and more than 300 people were unaccounted for after the mudslide, according to CBS. “‘Hundreds are still missing after rivers overflowed Friday night, sending water, mud and boulders crashing through Mocoa. … About half of the town’s neighborhoods were damaged or completely wiped out,’” said John Otis, an NPR reporter.
Some of the hardest hit neighborhoods were impoverished. Many of the residents in these neighborhoods were displaced during Colombia’s civil war, which lasted for five decades, according to Channel News Asia. There is widespread damage and mourning throughout the city. “On every corner there was someone mourning the death of a relative or a friend, or the sudden loss of the product of an entire lifetime’s work,” reported El Tiempo, a nationally distributed Colombian newspaper, according to NPR. More than 1,000 police officers and soldiers aided in rescue efforts, and the Colombian Red Cross is connecting separated family members, according to NPR. Supplies are being brought to those affected by the mudslide. Colombian President Juan Manuel Santos ensured that in addition to the 10 water tanks in place, 16 more were on the way, along with new water purification systems, CNN reported. There have been foreshadowings of a disaster like this occurring. “A 1989 hydrology report for the Agricultural Ministry warned that just such a disaster could happen unless steps were taken to reinforce the riverbanks,” Associated Press reported. Santos and the government have been criticized for not doing more to protect the region despite such warnings. The potential for disaster was also brought to the attention
Impoverished areas are the most impacted.
of locals. “People were warned. It was known that the mountain was coming, but nobody did anything because we don’t pay attention to rumors,” said Jaime Martinez, a man whose home was destroyed by the mudslide, according to CBS. To prevent similar disasters in the future Marcela Quintero, a researcher with the International Center for Tropical Agriculture suggested people move away from flood-prone areas. “The most important thing here is that people should not settle again in areas that are very high risk and prone to flooding and that measures are put in place to conserve the areas upstream,” Quintero said, CBS reported.
20 murdered in Pakistan during Sufi shrine ritual
Several million people observe Sufi tenets in Pakistan. By Danielle Silvia Staff Writer
Pakistani men and women entered a Sufi shrine in the city of Sargodha in Pakistan’s Punjab province on April 1 to obey a “selfdescribed mystic,” according to The New York Times. This act resulted in the torture and murder
of 20 individuals in a cult ritual, NBC reported. Six of the victims were women while 14 were men, according to the same source. “The killings were purportedly carried out by the shrine’s custodian and several accomplices,” said Jamshed Ahmad, senior police official, according to NBC. The shrine’s custodian, Abdul Waheed, was arrested on the scene. Waheed admitted
to luring possible candidates for the rituals into the shrine and killing two of the victims. Waheed was nearly 12 miles away from the site and eventually traveled back for the crime, according to The New York Times. Waheed claimed to kill the victims out of self-defense, as he was supposedly afraid that those at the shrine were going to kill him first, BBC reported. While the motive of these murders is still unclear, police reported that Waheed might have been concerned about having control of the shrine, The New York Times reported. According to the same source, murder victim Asif Ali Guijar was the son of the deceased Ali Muhammad Guijar, who was known in the village as the “self-described mystic.” The shrine was built in memoriam for Ali Muhammad Guijar, and during the ritual on April 1, Asif Ali Guijar allegedly cried out about the custody of the shrine, as he felt it was unjust that he had not inherited the shrine since he was Ali Muhammad Guijar’s son. Violence ensued after Guijar made this
claim, The New York Times reported. Sufism is a mystical branch of Islam, and its followers strongly believe in powerful saints and blessed people who can directly connect them with God. Several million Muslims in Pakistan are reported to follow the tenets held by the Sufi religion, according to BBC. The pilgrimage to the shrine involved an assembly of spiritual guidance for the participants to better themselves. Victims were given an intoxicating drink and later “beaten with batons and hacked with knives,” The New York Times reported. During the attack, an injured woman escaped and was able to report the incident to the police and send help to the shrine, according to BBC. The same source reported that Chief Minister of Punjab Province Shahbaz Sharif ordered an inquiry of the killings. Salman Sufi, Sharif’s aide, said victims’ families will be given compensation, BBC reported.
page 12 The Signal April 12, 2017
April 12, 2017 The Signal page 13
Editorial
Critical thinking is crucial for students
Something I learned during my two years here at the College is the importance of using my brain. As a psychology major, I learned the importance of being a smart consumer of research by questioning the reliability and validity of different empirical articles and their findings. I’ve learned even more from journalism, my second major, how crucial it is to be aware of the media’s validity. The infamous notion of fake news that’s fallen out of my mouth and the mouths of so many others illustrates a stark detail I’ve been overlooking –– it’s so easy to be consumed by fake news because I haven’t taken the time to look hard enough for the real facts. This revelation only became more prominent as I listened to a guest speaker, Wendell Potter, give a speech at the College on March 21 about his experience as a former vice president of communications for the health insurance company Cigna. Potter spoke of the corruption he admittedly helped spread to the public –– health insurance companies played a big role in shaping the public opinion of the Affordable Care Act. He described how 10 years ago, he and other public relations executives from health insurance companies campaigned, using policyholders’ premiums, against Michael Moore’s documentary “Sicko,” which was made to shine a light on America’s inefficient healthcare system. Cigna was one of many health insurance companies that didn’t want to air their flaws out in public where it would be more vulnerable to criticism. They considered their campaign a success: The documentary didn’t do well in theaters and their work aided in reinforcing the fear of government-run health care in the minds of Americans, according to Potter. What was worse was the journalists, trained to sniff out fake news, never realized the insurance companies were shaping their opinions. “During the entire campaign, not a single reporter had done enough investigative work to find out that the insurance industry was behind it all,” Potter said. “We had fooled everybody.” I don’t blame the investigative journalists at the time. In hindsight, the ulterior motive is easier to identify. Still, it’s also easy to wish that someone had uncovered the corruption. It finally took a whistleblower like Potter to reveal just how deep the insurance companies’ influence went in a political and psychological sense. Fake news is, unfortunately, old news. The good news, however, is that while we can’t stop people from deceiving others, we can become more informed on what sources we can trust and what experts to listen to. Potter ended with a message directed not at journalists, politicians or health insurance corporations, but at us: young college students. “We the people need to become better informed and more engaged citizens,” Potter said. He warned us not to be cynical and to avoid thinking that the system is too rigged to be fixed. He reminded us that he won’t be around forever –– we are the future, and we have the ability to think critically about our decisions and what news and other influences we consume. — Elizabeth Zakaim Reviews Editor
Editorial Content Unsigned editorial opinions are those of the Editorial Board, which consists of the Editor-in-Chief, the Managing, News, Features, Arts & Entertainment, Opinions, Photo, Sports, Review and Social Media editors and the Business and Production managers, unless otherwise noted. Opinions expressed in signed editorials and letters to the editor are those of the author and not necessarily those of The Signal.
Cigna’s smear campaign targets Moore’s film.
Lionsgate
Quotes of the week tcnjsignal.net Email: signal@tcnj.edu Telephone: Production Room (609) 771-2424 Business Office (609) 771-2499 Ad Email: signalad@tcnj.edu
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“I haven’t put out a song in three and a half years, and that has not been up to me. I fight every fucking day. Every single fucking day.” — Kesha, singer, songwriter and rapper
“It’s bringing mental health and medical health resources within walking distance to campus for our students, and that’s an amazing opportunity.” — Angela Chong, assistant vice president for Student Affairs and dean of students
page 14 The Signal April 12, 2017
April 12, 2017 The Signal page 15
Opinions
Parking garage barriers will not prevent suicide By Kelly Corbett
Lot 7 underwent a short construction project earlier this semester. The end result was a black wire fence installed, barricading the third floor ledge. If my parents had seen this when we took our first tour of the College, they would have been reluctant, at the least, about the school. A barrier like this is not a typical amenity to a university. So, why did the College build one? “The College built the barriers as a ‘means restriction’ measure,” said Luke Sacks, head media relations officer at the College. “Limitation of access to lethal methods used for death by suicide is an important and effective strategy for suicide prevention.” While suicide prevention should be prominent on any university’s agenda, this was not the right action for our school to take. It sends a negative message to visitors and fails to address the root of suicide problems: mental health. No one wants another harrowing headline about how the College lost another student. We identify as a “survivor school,” with five deaths by suicide in a four-year period, and this barrier is only advertising this message. It sends a message to visitors, prospective students and their families that this is a place where students consider taking their own lives. This fence is also futile to suicide prevention efforts. The roof is still open. The second floor is still open, and other campus garages have gone untouched by this “means restriction” initiative. Suicide is
Jason Proleika / Photo Editor
The Lot 7 parking garage now includes a fence on the third floor. still very possible at the College, and this barrier really serves no other purpose than to visibly taint our school as an institution where suicide is an issue. It diminishes the appeal of the College when you see a “means restriction” like this. It is similar to how sweatshops in China install suicide nets to prevent their overworked mental illness-ridden employees from succeeding in their dreary mission. Currently, no other “means restriction” construction projects are scheduled, according to Sacks. Yet, it makes me fear how the College is approaching the mental health situation on campus. Instead of the College
taking action early on and addressing the underlying issue, the College put up this fence that can only attempt to save a student at what could be his or her very last few seconds of life. At this point, it is far too late to be stepping in. Mental illness is the stimulus for suicide and, unfortunately, mental health resources are the College’s shortcoming. With the TCNJ Clinic scheduled to close at the end of the academic year and CAPS presently only offering short-term treatment to students in need, the College recently communicated a plan to students. “We are happy to announce that ‘InFocus Urgent Care’ will not only be providing
urgent medical care to the surrounding community, but will also have licensed mental health professionals on staff to offer longerterm counseling to TCNJ students in need of these services,” wrote Amy Hecht, vice president for Student Affairs in an email to the College community on Monday, April 10. InFocus Urgent Care will be located in Campus Town and is slated to open this summer, according to Hecht. While news of another medical facility opening nearby is a stride in the right direction, I cross my fingers that there is a sufficient amount of licensed mental health professionals, versed in many different areas of mental health, available to accommodate both the TCNJ community and the surrounding community. As urgent care facilities are not the typical environment to go for counseling, I hope setbacks such as placing students on a waitlist for therapy, as CAPS had done, will not be destined in this facility’s future. Also, that tuition rates for either Campus Town or campus as a whole will not dramatically reflect this new addition. While I see efforts are being made, resources are still limited, as this urgent care will not be open 24 hours or even too late at night, which for a buzzing student body, is essential. While this is a promise by the College I am looking forward to seeing this come to fruition, I still wonder about their rationale behind other decisions, such as an unusual parking garage accessory that’s not fixing the problem and is only going to put the wrong taste in visitors’ mouths.
Dressing for spring can be challenging
Sundresses and heeled booties are spring trends. By Sherley Alaba
College is when you discover yourself and open up to new changes that may come your way. College students become in charge of their own lives, which means that small things like handling finances and staying up to date with style can become a problem. There is pressure for students to update their wardrobe while considering the amount of money they have. The budget becomes even tighter when they have just been on spring break, but now want to revamp their wardrobe for
warmer weather in the summer. The weather in New Jersey can be really hot, so when traveling outside of campus, you need light clothing that keeps you cool. When you are going to class, you must also dress comfortably without getting too hot or cold. You need to keep a balance between the two, so here are tips for you to stay trendy, practical and within budget. Whether you are going to class or spending the evening with friends, you have the option to dress up in a tank top, crop top or light tee. You can wear a fancy shirt to classes and cover it with a shrug to minimize the over-the-top effect during the day and then go out at night without needing to change outfits. Avoid wearing really short halter tops, as those can be too fun for class, however, if you layer the halter with a button-up shirt by tying it up just above your waist for the class, you can then take it off to go clubbing. If your tank or crop top is not fancy, then you need to go with chic bottoms. Try patterned skirts that are just above-theknee length or distressed jeans. A flounce, tulle or tiered skirt can be a great option to add flair to your whole look. You can also wear a nice, sophisticated blouse with a really brightly colored trouser, which will make you look professional and stylish at the same time. Avoid wearing dresses as much as possible during classes, as it can be a headache to iron them if they have a lot of pleats. Moreover, dresses can be incredibly uncomfortable, as the sun’s heat would be hitting your legs, arms and shoulders. If you do feel like putting on a dress, then make sure the material is light and it’s not too formal.
Usually, spring and summer footwear involves you wearing your favorite strappy sandals around campus and for a night out. Footwear with straps are easily wearable with any type of outfit, be it a dress, skinny jeans or skirt. Although, make sure the sandals don’t look too much like bathroom slippers or do not have too many straps. They are a nuisance to get your feet into. You do not always have to visit a clothing store before summer hits. There are always ways that you can update your look with your previous season clothes. All you need is some creativity and a sense of what style suits you. This way, you do not make a dent in your wallet and still come off as chic and fashionable.
Basic T-shirts are great for spring.
Policies
The Signal is published weekly during the academic year and is financed by the Student Activities Fee (SAF) and advertising revenue. Any student may submit articles to The Signal. Publication of submitted articles is at the discretion of the editors. The letters section is an open forum for opinions. Submissions that announce events or advertise in any way will not be printed. All letters should be sent via email to signal@tcnj.edu. Handwritten letters should be sent to The Signal, c/o The Brower Student Center, The College of New Jersey, PO Box 7718 Ewing, N.J. 08628 or placed in our mailbox in the Student Life Office. Letters must be received by the Friday before publication and should not exceed 300 words. The Signal reserves the right to edit letters for space and clarity. All letters must be signed, with a phone number and address of the author. Requests to withhold the author’s name will be honored only if there is a legitimate reason. All materials submitted become the sole property of The Signal. The editors reserve the right to edit or withhold all articles, letters & photographs. The Signal willingly corrects factual mistakes. If you think we have made an error, please contact The Signal at (609) 771-2424, write to the address listed above or email us at signal@tcnj.edu.
page 16 The Signal April 12, 2017
7 1 0 2 , d r 3 2 l i l l a Apr H l m l p 6 a t ow a Kend Sh , m p 5 t a s r o o D
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TCNJ’s largest student run cultural show Music, dancing, martial arts, singing, fashion...and more!
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April 12, 2017 The Signal page 17
Students share opinions around campus “What is your wardrobe for spring like?”
Mia Ingui / Opinions Editor
Benjamin Zander, a junior journalism and communications double major. “My helicopter hat, the limited edition Buzz Lightyear Vans and bright orange shorts.”
Mia Ingui / Opinions Editor
Alyssa J Freitas, a senior management major. “Sundresses and florals for spring — groundbreaking.”
“Does the College pay attention to mental health?”
Mia Ingui / Opinions Editor
Amanda Hyland, a freshman mathematics and secondary education dual major. “Yes, they have a lot of services readily available.”
Mia Ingui / Opinions Editor
Kim Bellissimo, a freshman mathematics and elementary education double major.
“Yes, the campus does a good job of promoting mental health. There are plenty of services.”
The Signal’s cartoons of the week...
page 18 The Signal April 12, 2017
April 12, 2017 The Signal page 19
Features
Alumnae invoke social change after graduation
Left: Alumnae discuss controversial topics. Right: Students ask panelists about their careers in social change. By Alyssa Gautieri Features Editor “What change do you want to make and how?” That is what alumna Johanna Calle (’08) asked the students gathered in the Library Auditorium on Thursday, April 6. The third workshop in the “Activism 101 & 102 Series” featured a panel of three alumnae currently employed as activists. The women shared what it is like to work with nonprofits, their personal experiences with activism and advice for those aspiring to enter the social justice field. Calle, who attended the College as an undocumented immigrant, is now the program coordinator at New Jersey Alliance for Immigrant Justice. “I think everyone has a different definition of how they can create change,” she said. “You have to check your gut and decide where on the spectrum you feel comfortable and where you can make a change.” Calle began her college career as a physics and education double major, but quickly realized that track wouldn’t allow her to change the world. She then decided on a sociology and political science double major and later pursued a master’s in criminal justice at Rutgers University-Newark. “What counts as activism? Who is an
activist and what makes it legitimate?” asked alumna Karina Lopez (’11), the community engaged learning coordinator for the Bonner Institute’s Juvenile Justice and Prisoner Reentry Division. Also an army reservist for seven years, Lopez began her career at the College as a biology major, but soon switched to philosophy and women’s and gender studies. At the College, Lopez was involved with the Bonner Community Scholars, Women In Learning and Leadership and the Educational Opportunity Fund Program. “All of the programs that I was involved with (at the College) helped to further shape my love for social justice and gave me the words in which I could really speak about social justice,” she said. In her current position, Lopez works with students at the College. “Essentially, we want to cultivate social justice leaders so that when they leave TCNJ they will be able to impact the world,” Lopez said. “I feel that I am more of an activator because I work with the future of our country.” Alumna Caitlin Duffy (’12), senior associate for learning and engagement at the National Committee for Responsive Philanthropy, studied Spanish and secondary education at the College. After working with immigrant and hispanic communities, she decided to pursue a master’s in ethics, peace
The Culinary Club Presents...
Lions Plate
Cannoli dip is an easy snack to make.
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and global affairs at American University. The time for social change is now, according to Duffy. “While there has always been an urgency (for change), right now there is so much more immediate necessity to fund activism and civic engagement,” she said. The women also shared insight into the governmental challenges of nonprofits. “I think nonprofit organizations are part of the problem,” Lopez said. “It is not a coincidence that the same institutions that are taking away a lot of essential rights and protections are the ones that are giving nonprofits money.” Calle agreed that the system is flawed. “It is a very complicated system, you can lose your way if you don’t know what you need and what you want,” she said. Calle was also not shy about criticizing the College. Around two years ago, the College called Calle, asking her to make a donation. Calle responded with an ultimatum. “I told them ‘I will donate my money if you create a fund for undocumented students’ and they never called back,” she said. Frustrated that the College does not address its undocumented students, Calle believes the student body needs to start the conversation. “You have undocumented students on
Jason Proleika / Photo Editor
campus,” she said. “And no one is talking about it and that means that we have to start making people uncomfortable to start building consciousness across the study body.” Students looking at a range of colleges are likely to make a decision based on where each college stands on their values. “Don’t come here until this school starts representing the values of its students,” Calle said. Lopez also brought up the importance of the student body. “TCNJ students are the College’s consumers,” she said. “If you guys organize well and if you have a large number of students behind you, it is really difficult for administrators to not listen. Without students, the College couldn’t exist.” Teresa Anta San Pedro, a retired Spanish professor in the audience, agreed. “If you see something that is unjust, you should not just keep quiet,” she said. “The minute you see something and you don’t do something about it, it will only keep going.” Duffy invited students to think about their desire to change the world. “When people say, ‘I want to help people’ or ‘I want to change the world,’ that is really broad,” she said. “I want to challenge you to think about what specifically you want to change.”
: simple cannoli cream dip
By Julia Dzurillay Columnist
your cannoli cream. Or just eat it alone with a spoon — I won’t judge you.
Last summer, my friend and I decided to host a party featuring a variety of dips for guests to sample. I made a seven-layer bean dip, and my friend made a buffalo chicken dip. Then, we made a cannoli cream dip for dessert. As a proud Italian, eating cannolis is second nature to me. Graduation, Christmas or a birthday party? Cannolis are always the go-to! Naturally, it was only a matter of time before I made my own cannoli cream. This recipe is my personal favorite because of its simplicity. Many of the ingredients are common kitchen items, but if you don’t have them, don’t panic. They only cost a few dollars each. Plus, you can make this dip your own. You can dip crushed up ice cream cones, strawberries or pretzels into
Ingredients: 2 cups of ricotta cheese 1 package of cream cheese 1/2 cup of confectioners sugar 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract 1 cup of mini-semisweet chocolate chips Directions: 1. In a large bowl, beat together ricotta cheese and cream cheese until smooth. 2. Add sugar and vanilla and stir mixture well. 3. Add chocolate chips. 4. Cover bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 10 minutes before enjoying.
page 20 The Signal April 12, 2017
The College of New Jersey Celebrates:
Student Employment Appreciation Week April 9th-15, 2017
Thank you to all student employees for your commitment and hard work! The Career Center
Students fight injustice at monologues April 12, 2017 The Signal page 21
Meagan McDowell / Staff Photographer
A student embraces her Muslim identity. By Hannah Fakhrzadeh Staff Writer
“We close our eyes so we don’t have to see the children’s bloodsoaked school uniforms, their still sizzling flesh or their bodies contorted in terrible positions.” For junior biology major Sameera Chaudhry, the horrible scenes displayed in the media of war-torn Syria and the innocent faces of lives that were lost are forever etched in her mind. Chaudhry discussed the daily injustices that occur around the world, yet most people choose to turn a blind eye. Students gathered on Thursday, April 6, in the Education Building to hear the Muslim Students’ Association’s Justice
Monologues, where students discussed issues of injustice, both in their lives and around the world. In her monologue, Nawal Mubin, a sophomore communication studies major, pointed out that our nation has witnessed various movements supporting minorities that don’t feel equally represented. “We say everyone is equal, but we still have (so many) movements for minorities,” she said. Mubin also brought up the lack of justice in cases like the shooting of Trayvon Martin. “How can we sit back when we know innocent lives are taken every day?” she asked the audience. Kyle Kulaga, a freshman career and community studies major, shared a touching story about struggling with his hearing disability in
school because some of his teachers did not use American Sign Language in their classes. “Do you think it’s fair for someone with hearing loss to go through what I went through?” he asked. “I don’t think so, and I want people to know that American Sign Language was a big part of my life.” Iman Khan, a sophomore biology major, shared an empowering story of overcoming differences in her monologue entitled, “A Triumph of the Conscience.” “Why am I different? What makes me different?” Khan remembers asking in regard to her darker hair and skin. Eventually, Khan realized that she should be proud of her identity and not let the opinions of others affect how she sees herself. “I am me and me is what they will see,” she said. Matthew Hardy, a senior sociology and women’s, gender and sexuality studies double major, explained an enlightening encounter he had with a Muslim man who gave him a Holy Quran. “We are all humans,” he said. “I encourage everyone to really listen because you never know what you will learn.” The Justice Monologues not only provided students the opportunity to tell their stories, but inspire those in attendance, as well. Engy Shaaban, a junior special education and psychology double
major, developed a new perspective following the event. “I think in this day and age, ignorance and especially closemindedness can be so incredibly dangerous,” she said. “For me, coming to these sorts of events is a way to be exposed to different perspectives that I might not typically have access to.” The feeling was mutual for Zainab Rizvi, a member of MSA and a junior elementary education and women’s, gender and sexuality studies double major. “Many people live in their own bubble, and it’s important that they come out and hear the experiences of others,” she said. “It’s a way to appreciate the lives of others and understand that people come from all backgrounds.”
Zahra Memon, MSA’s public relations chair and a sophomore deaf education and iSTEM double major, shared her thoughts on the event. “We’ve all faced some type of injustice in our lives, and even if we haven’t, someone who shares our ethnicity or culture has been affected in some way,” she said. “The Justice Monologues are a way for all of us to come together and hear the stories of students who have felt injustice.” Memon believes it is important for students to empathize with their peers. “We often forget to put ourselves in the other person’s shoes, however, this event will give us the chance to see the other end of the lens,” she said.
Meagan McDowell / Staff Photographer
The audience empathizes with peer presenters.
page 22 The Signal April, 12 2017
:April ‘09
Campus Style
Students struggle finding jobs
Alyssa Gautieri / Features Editor
More students attend graduate school due to the poor economy. Every week, Features Editor Alyssa Gautieri hits the archives and finds old Signals that relate to current College topics and top stories. In 2009, College officials noticed an increase in students pursuing postgraduate education, including those who enrolled in master’s programs or took at least one additional course after getting their bachelor’s degree. The increase was attributed to the poor economic conditions and students’ fear of unemployment. While the economy has slowly recovered through the years, current students still worry about finding a job after graduation. This week, Social Media Editor Ashton Leber spoke to current students about their concerns regarding jobs after graduation. In a comparison of the College’s graduating Classes of 2007 and 2008, there is a 5 percent increase in the number of seniors who enrolled in graduate courses after completing their undergraduate education. Recent data for the Class of ’08, compiled by the National Student Clearinghouse (NSC), a nationwide database of admissions data, shows 29 percent (417 out of 1,418) pursued further study. This is an increase from 24 percent (327 out of 1,349) from the NSC data of the Class of ’07. Ceil O’Callaghan, Interim Associate Dean of Students and Director of Career Services, labeled the five percent increase as “significant.” She expects this upward trend to continue for the Class of 2009, “due to the economic conditions.” “If (students are) concerned about the job market and thinking of grad school as a way of staving that off, at least meet with a career counselor,” O’Callaghan said. “Don’t just go to grad school to stave off the job market.” She believes this may leave
students overqualified for some things and underqualified for others. The NSC data does not reflect the number of students who enrolled in graduate programs but rather the number of graduating seniors and the schools in which they took courses. The number of students selecting the College for Graduate School has grown significantly from 47 to 115, a 200 percent increase from 2007 to 2008. O’Callaghan believes this bump is due in part to the way Career Services now records data. Along with the data, O’Callaghan said she is witnessing an increased “concern” and “fear” in the students who come to Career Services for help. Matt Pihokker, senior English literature and classical studies major, is experiencing this. “I’m trying to stay in school just because the job market is so terrible,” Pihokker said. “In talking to a bunch of family and people currently in grad school it was strongly suggested to stay in school.” Pihokker has applied to three post-baccalaureate programs. However, not all students are letting the recession alter their plans. In the case of Sean Hiki, a member of the College class of ’08 and currently a graduate student at the College studying secondary education and English, he applied before dramatic signs of a worsening economy emerged. “I had been planning for a few years to go right into grad school for education after I graduated, and I bullishly stuck to my plans,” Hiki said. “Also, I had applied in March of last year, and as far as I knew at the time, there was no indication there was going to be a bad recession.”
Flickr
Photo courtesy of Jillian Greene
Left: Boyfriend jeans are hot this season. Right: Valentine shows off her signature style. By Jillian Greene Columnist
This week we’re catching up with Amanda Valentin, a junior nursing major whose style I idolize. She’s always dressed to impress, regardless of the occasion. From head to toe, her style shines bright. JG: What is your favorite accessory? AV: I never leave the house without my dainty diamond staple necklace. I think it’s timeless and simple. JG: How do you feel about the new slipon sneaker trend? AV: I have a pair. I think they’re perfect for on the go. JG: What’s your stance on fur? AV: If it’s faux fur, go for it. I love the new fur slip-on sandals. I’ve been seeing them everywhere I turn.
JG: Where do you find the best bargains? AV: T.J. Maxx, Marshalls and Nordstrom Rack. You also can’t go wrong with department store sales. JG: How do you feel about boyfriend ripped jeans? AV: I love them! Wearing them, I feel as though I am wearing sweatpants. JG: Shorts or skirts? AV: Skirts. JG: What winter trend won’t you miss? AV: Black, simple chokers. I prefer the colored ones that stand out. JG: What spring trend are you most excited about? AV: High-waisted, flowy pants — I can’t wait to wear those again. JG: Summer or winter clothing? AV: Winter, definitely. I’ll miss my boots.
Celebritease : Stone declines tempting promposal
AP Photo
Left: Styles makes his solo debut with ‘Sign of the Times.’ Right: Teenager asks Stone to prom with ‘La La Land’ remake. By Mackenzie Cutruzzula Columnist Harry Styles made his solo debut on Friday, April 7, with his track, “Sign of the Times.” Spotify’s technical difficulties slightly hindered the release, but overall, the singer was met with high praise for the powerful ballad. The song makes a statement, proving that Styles’ boy band days are behind him. Andrew Unterberger, contributor for Billboard, called the track
“defiantly rock, proudly bombastic and impossibly British included.” While Styles was slower than his former bandmates to seek a solo career, his newest track proves it was worth the wait. Meanwhile, The Weeknd took to Instagram to post a sweet picture with his girlfriend, Selena Gomez. The dark photo features Gomez giving him a kiss on the cheek. Fans were excited to finally see the couple take their relationship to social media. Also this week, Simone Biles
told PEOPLE she’s only been on one proper date, which isn’t hard to believe considering her rigorous schedule with gymnastics and “Dancing With The Stars.” Biles, however, confirmed that the date went well and will likely lead to a second. Biles also mentioned that she enjoys exploring different styles of dance on “DWTS.” While Biles certainly doesn’t need a man, the Mirror Ball Trophy wouldn’t be a bad addition to her life. In other news, Emma Stone was
gifted an epic viral promposal by an Arizona high school student. Jacob Staudenmaier, a Ryan Gosling look-alike, recreated the opening scene of “La La Land” to ask Stone to his prom. The video garnered enough attention that it caught Stone’s eyes. Changing the song’s words with the help of his peers, Staudenmaier gave Stone a lot to consider. Unfortunately, the actress couldn’t attend, which Staudenmaier revealed on “Good Morning America” while reading a letter from Stone.
YouTube
“Jacob, thanks for making the greatest proposal I have ever received,” Stone wrote in a letter, according to Staudenmaier. “I can’t tell you what an honor that was and how much I smiled through that entire beautifully orchestrated video. I’m in London working, but I hope you have the best time at prom, and I’m grateful you thought of me.” If only I had thought to publicly ask Styles to be my date to my cousin’s upcoming wedding. Harry, if you stumble across this article, call me.
April 12, 2017 The Signal page 23
Arts & Entertainment
Spring / Kesha excites, empowers students
Kim Iannarone / Staff Photographer
DJ Jenaux opens for Kesha, starting the evening with danceable EDM mixes. continued from page 1
DJ Jenaux opened for Kesha, warming up the audience with synthy dance tunes. Kesha’s band, The Creepies, then took the stage, introducing themselves as “the best shitheels and scumbags this nation has to offer” and introduced Kesha as “Hell’s prettiest angel.” Kesha kicked off her set with party anthem “We R Who We R,” pumping up the audience for the rest of her show. To introduce her next song, “Your Love Is My Drug,” Kesha
told the audience that “all love is equal, but I also love drugs,” and a member of The Creepies waved an LGBTQ pride flag across the stage during the song. After singing “Your Love is My Drug,” Kesha started stripping off her clothes. “I’m really fucking hot. Is it OK if I take of some of my clothes?” Kesha asked the crowd, which went crazy as she took off her pants and ducked behind her drummer for a costume change. She then performed an old favorite, “Dinosaur,” with The Creepies donning dinosaur masks
and dancing along with Kesha. The song ended and a “Free Kesha” chant erupted from the audience. Kesha expressed her gratitude to her audience for their support and took this time to tell a bit of her story to the College. Kesha entered a lawsuit in 2014 with her longtime producer, Dr. Luke, alleging that he drugged, abused and raped her. Completely denying these allegations, Dr. Luke counter-sued Kesha for breach of contract. Last February, Kesha was denied her right to record and release new music separate from Dr. Luke’s
label until the case finally comes to a close. “I thank you for being here,” Kesha said to the students. “I haven’t put out a song in three and a half years, and that has not been up to me. I fight every fucking day. Every single fucking day.” Kesha assured her audience that she is still creating music in hopes of releasing it soon. “I counted 75 songs,” Kesha said. Fittingly, Kesha then performed a passionate cover of Lesley Gore’s “You Don’t Own Me.” Afterwards was Kesha’s hit “Blow” and then a song that she was said was “requested by a student,” “Boots and Boys” off of “Animal.” Kesha then polled the audience on their ages. Coming to the consensus that most were around 20, Kesha asked, “So, we can talk about adult things, right?” She told the story of “Take it Off,” referencing a wild night she had at a place called “The Silver Platter,” where everyone was “butt-fucking naked and not in a cute way.” After “Take It Off,” Kesha began her next song by saying, “This is my theoretic last song, but if you guys go fucking crazy, it won’t be my last song.” And so, during “Tik Tok,” the audience obeyed. Kesha exited, but the audience hoped not for long. With the audience chanting “Kesha,” she returned to the stage to perform “Timber” and “Die Young,”
which she said is about “living every night like it’s the last fucking night of your life.” Kesha’s set ended, but the party did not stop for the College. After Kesha was DJ group Grooveboston, who kept the recreation center packed and rocking. Selling out of the 2,600 tickets, Kesha’s concert is considered a huge success by the College Union Board, which organized the event. Levi Reed, a CUB live event coordinator and a junior communications studies major, said being a part of CUB’s 2017 Spring Concert was a surreal and amazing experience. “Standing onstage and looking into the crowd of excited faces and knowing that Sydney (Swartz) and I, along with the other members of CUB, did this was one of the highest points of my life,” Reed said. “It was a long 21-hour day filled with dancing, excitement and eight cups of coffee, and I’d do it all again in a heartbeat.” Sydney Swartz, a CUB live event coordinator and a senior communication studies major, was equally as pleased with the turnout. “Watching the rec center fill, announcing the show to the crowd and then watching the crowd sing and dance along to Kesha and The Creepies, Jenaux and GrooveBoston is what made the months of planning completely worth it,” she said.
TCNJ Musical Theatre amazes audiences at ‘WIRED’ By Thomas Infante Arts & Entertainment Editor The Decker Social Space was buzzing with energy the night of Saturday, April 8, as a crowd of students and friends gathered for TCNJ Musical Theatre’s play competition, WIRED. WIRED is a competition held by TMT in which groups of students are given 24-hours to fully write, direct, produce and finally perform their production onstage. The participants of the competition were divided up into five groups, each with a pair of writers, a director, stage manager and acting cast. Each group was also assigned a genre to style their production on, as well as a fast food chain that the actors would reference in their dialogue. Twists in the writing, such as characters living double lives, ensured that each show stood out individually and gave the actors an opportunity to explore colorful and eccentric characters. The first play, “The Power of Friendship,” centered around a group of college girls that are extremely passionate about environmental conservation. The main character Wendi, played by sophomore mathematics major Rebecca Conn, is very studious, caring about little besides her close friend named Wendy (sophomore Gretchen Newell) and her GPA. Wendy and her classmates are initially overwhelmed by their new course about Dr. Seuss and white imperialism, and intimidated by the professor that teaches it. When Wendy’s best friend takes an interest in joining a sorority, “Sigma Apple Pi,” Wendy belittles it and the two have a falling out. The show, which was obviously assigned the fast food chain Wendy’s, incorporated lots of relevant puns into the script, such as when someone asks the upset protagonist, “Why so frosty, Wendy?” In the end, Wendy apologizes to her friend, who ends up losing interest in the sorority after all. As one of Wendy’s friends transforms herself into “Eco Warrior,” who
uses her powers to end the drought in California as the cast all simultaneously said to the audience, “Everything will be OK… eventually.” The second play was titled “Gotta Go Fast (Food),” and starred sophomore Katie Marciniak and sophomore history and secondary education dual major Michael Morack as Amy and Danny. They work at a gourmet Peanut Butter & Jelly sandwich store called “That’s My Jam” for their boss Miles (sophomore Soji Omotoso), who is ready to sell the slowing business to pursue an acting career. However, Amy comes up with a new flavor of PB&J that is loved by everyone who tries the sandwich. Amy would only whisper her secret ingredient to those onstage, keeping
the audience in suspense. Meanwhile, a disgraced former worker of the sandwich shop hears about the new sandwich, and plots to ruin the business as revenge for his firing. In the end, the restaurant is saved by a food critic and wizard whose positive reviews magically revitalize businesses. Amy and Danny share a romantic kiss, and Amy reveals her secret ingredient to the audience: bananas. The third play, “Brave New Mundo,” was styled after a Spanish soap opera. An enthusiastic narrator dressed in a suit with an unbuttoned undershirt, played by sophomore English and secondary education dual major Kevin Bizzoco, set the scene for the audience, and introduced the characters as they came onstage.
Jason Proleika / Photo Editor
Esteban tears his Taco Bell T-shirt from his body in his last attempt to win back Maria’s love.
page 24 The Signal April 12, 2017
Initial Registration Period for Undergraduate and Graduate Students
Tuesday, April 4, Through Friday, April 14
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Your enrollment appointment reflecting the first time you will be eligible to register for the Fall 2017 semester can be accessed via your PAWS account. To view your scheduled enrollment appointment, visit the Enrollment Appointment section in the PAWS Student Center. Once eligible, students remain eligible throughout the registration period. Undergraduate students who do not register by 11:59 pm on Sunday, April 16, will be subject to a late registration fine. Graduate Students have until Saturday, July 15. Late Registration Fine Undergraduate: $150 Graduate: $125
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The Fall 2017 Schedule of Classes is available on PAWS and can be viewed by using the Search for Classes button. Both Summer 2017 and Winter 2018 registration are also open along with Fall 2017 registration. Check PAWS frequently for any updated summer/winter course offerings and consult with your advisor for appropriate course selections.
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Visit the PAWS HELP website for complete information on how to log-in to PAWS, search for classes, browse the Course Catalog, view your Holds, add courses to your Shopping Cart, and register for classes: http://pawshelp.pages.tcnj.edu/
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Use the Validate feature directly from your PAWS Shopping Cart to check for potential pre-requisite issues before registration! For more information on the Validate feature, visit: http://pawshelp.pages.tcnj.edu/files/2011/07/validate1.pdf
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Check PAWS early and frequently for Holds that will prevent you from registering. All Hold Flag information can be viewed under the Holds section in the PAWS Student Center.
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Access your Academic Requirements Report on PAWS to view your degree requirements via the Advising Tools link.
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Make an appointment to see your advisor to discuss your Academic Requirements Report. Your advisor’s name and email address can be located in your PAWS Student Center.
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Double-check call numbers and course sections prior to your registration appointment for schedule changes and periodic updates.
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Graduate Students: If you are a non-matriculant who is applying for Fall matriculation, you should not register during this timeframe. If accepted for matriculation, you will be invited to register during the Graduate Orientation session in June.
THE OFFICE OF RECORDS AND REGISTRATION Green Hall 112, 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
April 12, 2017 The Signal page 25
College rocks with Rosenstock at CUB Alt By Sean Reis Staff Writer
For a second, the crowd was silent — just a second, though. In an instant, Jeff Rosenstock and his band sent the eager crowd into a frenzy when he began his headlining performance. Fans charged the stage with arms in the air — and they wouldn’t lower them until the CUB Alt concert on April 4 came to a close. Before Rosenstock took control, three other opening acts had taken the stage: Curtis Cooper, Teenage Halloween and Thin Lips. All three openers had short trips to the College. Cooper and Thin Lips are Philadelphia-based alternative rock bands while Teenage Halloween — an eight-person, indie rock band with strong ska influences — is from Asbury Park, N.J. “We always wanted to do a four band bill, but the standard has always been three,” said Dana Gorab, CUB Alt co-chair and a junior communication studies major. “Tonight was originally three bands, but I saw Curtis Cooper in Philly and I knew I wanted to add him to the show.” With four bands total, students at the College may have had a bigger bill to swallow, but the crowd was ready for Rosenstock. Those in attendance had enough energy
to enjoy live music all night if the Decker Social Space would have allowed it, and the crowd gave the band their all from start to finish. Rosenstock broke the brief, aforementioned silence and opened his band’s headlining performance with “We Begged 2 Explode” off “WORRY.” — Rosenstock’s latest album released in October 2016. The beginning of the set then followed the album chronologically, only interrupted by hilarious banter amongst the band members in between songs. When the band played another “WORRY.” release, “Festival Song,” the College was especially enthusiastic. “I’m trying to match your energy,” Rosenstock said. “But it’s just too damn high!” The band as a whole also brought a very high energy to the stage, musically driven by heavy guitar, bass and hard-hitting drums, but Rosenstock’s fellow musicians also utilized one acoustic guitar, the keys of a synth and a drum pad to slow a couple tracks down. The set’s first half had more alternative rock elements, while the latter half became a more ska-oriented show. “Ska is as popular as it’s ever been!” Rosenstock yelled to the crowd after the band performed “Rainbow,” which he had previously introduced with a shout out
Jason Proleika / Photo Editor
Rosenstock hypes up the audience with his energetic ska and alternative rock songs.
to the openers Teenage Halloween. It’s unlikely the entire crowd was aware, but as a founding member of ska punk band The Arrogant Sons of Bitches in 1995, Rosenstock has been in the music industry for longer than some students in attendance have been alive. He’s yet to stop doing what he loves, and when asked in an interview with the College’s radio station, 91.3 FM WTSR, about how he still finds inspiration after all these years, Rosenstock simply responded, “I just like
music and I like making music.” His connection with the crowd and stage presence was a testament to his passion for music. Rosenstock was constantly jumping with pure joy onstage and his hardcore fans were jumping right back at him all night, even as the set was close to its end. “We have six songs left,” Rosenstock told the crowd, but the remaining songs were primarily a minute each and rolled into one another. The final stretch started with
the song “HELLLLHOOOOLE” and chronologically rounded out “WORRY.” before “You, In Weird Cities” off another album, “We Cool?” ultimately brought Rosenstock’s set to a close. As the band seemed to fade away with a somber instrumental, the crowd knew it wasn’t over. Rosenstock — with his band behind him — and his fans unleashed whatever energy was left for one last time, and like that, another successful CUB Alt concert came to a close.
Stage / Student theater groups create crazy stories continued from page 23 “I really try to put all of myself into the role,” said Bizzoco. “The show is dependent on how much energy we can all bring to it.” The story began on a sunny June day, where we are introduced to a young couple, Steven (freshman biology major Matt Fertakos) and Juliet. Steven has noticed Juliet acting suspiciously lately, and that is because she’s been seeing Esteban (Eric Schreiber, junior chemistry major), the most passionate Taco Bell employee on the planet. Despite Juliet’s love, Esteban’s heart yearns for his ex-girlfriend Maria (freshman physics major Cynthia Reynolds), who left Esteban for a Qdoba employee after Taco Bell gave her diarrhea, which they refer to dramatically as “Taco Cancer.” Scheriber’s performance as Esteban stole the show, and later on he was awarded best actor of the night by a panel of alumni. In an interview, Shreiber said that he looked to Gomez Addams of “The Addams Family” for inspiration. “All of the roles were assigned to us, we got the scripts handed to us at 8 a.m. this morning,” Schreiber said. “We were thrust
into a pretty crazy environment with these roles and we all have a lot of fun.” In the heat of a confrontation between the couple, Esteban faced the crowd and tore his Taco Bell shirt in half from his collar, willing to give up even his livelihood for Maria’s love. Sadly, it was all in vain, as Maria leaves to be with Qdoba, sadly declaring, “I’m nacho woman anymore.” Meanwhile, Steven and his mother (freshman secondary education and English dual major Joely Torres) have discovered Esteban as the accomplice in Juliet’s affair and began to stake her out to catch her in the act. Torres was excellent in her role, seemingly channeling Sofia Vergara in “Modern Family,” and delivering her lines passionately and punctually. When they catch Esteban and Juliet, Steven’s mom comes to a realization, supported by a letter that Maria found at Esteban’s house. Steven’s mom reveals that she used to be a pop star called Stella Marbella. When she had Esteban out of wedlock, she gave him up for adoption in order to pursue her singing career. The story ends after they are reunited, as the narrator emphatically told the audience to “find out next week on
Jason Proleika / Photo Editor
Ryan reveals his true plan to murder Katie for her riches.
‘Brave New Mundo!’” Junior communications studies major Kristen Gassler and junior English major Sarah Reynolds wrote the script, and were awarded best writing pair. The show was also awarded best overall by the alumni panel. The fourth play was called “Thrill Her,” which starred senior psychology major Melissa Albert as Princess Katherine Berger IV, who lives with her grandparents after her parents and brother were killed in a “tragic windmill accident.” Katherine desperately wants to venture out on her own and find love, so she adopts the alias “Katie Noname” and goes on “Thrill Her,” a TV show similar to “The Bachelorette.” Katie has four potential suitors. First is Collin (sophomore music education major Ben Reim), a self-obsessed goon in a tank top and backwards hat. On their date, Collin offers her one of his homemade protein shakes, and talks to his biceps like the angel and devil on his shoulder when he doesn’t know what to say to Katie. Likewise, she didn’t hit it off with Derrick (freshman Alex Hanneman), a farm boy who misses his livestock so much that he calls them before bed every night. She hits it off with Ryan (junior communications studies and journalism and professional writing double major Ben Zander), a seemingly smooth and easygoing guy who takes her to see “Annie.” Katie really connects with the last guy, Steven (freshman Chris Blum). Katie tells Steven about the accident that killed her family, but mentions that they never found her brother’s body. Steven abruptly leaves, leaving Katie feeling confused after such an emotional moment. Without Steven around, Katie chooses Ryan as the winner. He takes the opportunity to propose, but after Katie accepts, Ryan begins to act suspicious. When the couple goes for a walk on the beach the next night, Ryan ties Katie’s hands behind her back and reveals his plot. He knew she was royalty the whole time and planned to kill
her after they were wed for her money. As Ryan prepares to throw Katie into the ocean to her death, Steven rushes to her aid and overpowers Ryan with the help of the other bachelors and Katie’s grandparents. Steven reveals that he is Katie’s long lost brother, and the story ends with Katie reunited with the family she thought she had lost. Later in the night, Albert was awarded best actress, and the group won best ensemble cast. The final play was titled “Who McDunnit?” A mystery with costume designs based heavily on “Scooby Doo,” the story focused on the members of Puzzlecorps, an independent investigative agency. Jay (freshman Casey O’neill), Harper (junior international studies major Julie Scesney), and Valerie (freshman elementary education major Kate Augustin) — closely resembling Fred, Daphne and Velma — run the agency with the help of their “Hardy Boys” wannabe trainees, Big and Mac (freshman Jason Monto and sophomore JPW major Kyle Elphick). After a series of crimes leave the detectives puzzled, Harper and a young woman named Sarah are kidnapped from the scene of a crime. Their captor is Morgan (Haley Witko), a ruthless yet classy criminal with a huge crush on Jay. Morgan leaves a ransom note at the scene with her address on it, so Big and Mac go to her house disguised as McDonald’s delivery boys. They manage to sneak in, and discover that Jay in the midst of a romantic evening with Morgan. They also free Harper and Sarah, and the latter reveals herself to be an undercover FBI agent that was investigating Morgan. Valerie gets her glasses back so she can see, and the gang solves the case. After the shows, the alumni panel gave awards to the groups who reacted jubilantly with each announcement. Sophomore WGS/communications studies major Katharine Smith won best stage manager for her work on “Who McDunnit?” and senior JPW major Jonathan Edmondson won best director for “Thrill Her.”
page 26 The Signal April 12, 2017
Mutants fight for survival in ‘Legion’
By George Tatoris News Editor
The world of superhero comics is a vast tapestry made of thousands of different ideas thought up over decades by hundreds of artists and writers. Some of those ideas stuck around, some of them were forgotten, some became passion projects and others were hastily stitched in to meet a deadline. Out of this disjointed quilt FX pulled out David Haller, aka Legion, to adapt to television and chose Fargo showrunner Noah Hawley to direct it. Having aired its first season finale on March 29, the show has set the bar high for every superhero show that will come after. David Haller (Dan Stevens) is a mutant psychic with unprecedented power, but is plagued by schizophrenia. He is dumped in a psychiatric hospital, where he is discovered by two warring factions –– the government agency tasked with hunting mutants to extinction known as Division 3 and a group of mutants hiding away in a haven called Summerland. The premise allows Hawley and Stevens to explore their respective crafts. Stevens is compelling as Haller, whose journey from madman to hero is the focal point of
Haller struggles to control his volatile psychic superpowers. the series. Stevens sells the character every step of the way. Hawley illustrates David’s story with psychedelic interludes through David’s memories, periodic visions of the world through David’s broken psyche and an imaginary mindscape called the astral plane. These lead viewers to question the reality of the show. How much of it is in David’s head? Hawley draws on horror influences to create a host of truly unnerving villains like the World’s Angriest Boy in the World, a children’s book character from David’s childhood with a large head that looks to be papier-mâché, and the Devil With Yellow Eyes, a ghoulish round figure resembling Humpty Dumpty’s evil twin. These
characters often appear subtly in the background without any warning and torment David without saying a single word. In the hospital, David befriends Lenny Busker (Aubrey Plaza), a manic drug addict and Sydney “Syd” Barrett (Rachel Keller), a mutant who switches bodies with people she touches and becomes David’s girlfriend. Plaza shines as Lenny, who becomes somewhat of a shoulder devil for Haller, while Keller manages to give the distant Syd some charm. In Summerland, David meets the rest of the cast. Dr. Melanie Bird (Jean Smart), a Professor Xtype character; Ptonomy Wallace (Jeremie Harris), a mutant who remembers every waking moment of his life and can enter
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the memories of others; and Cary (Bill Irwin) and Kerry (Amber Midthunder) Loudermilk, who live within the same body. All of these characters except David are original. While every cast member does an excellent job with what they’re given, the cast of mutants often take a backseat to David’s story. None of them get sufficient development in the first season. These characters have their moments, though. The Loudermilks’ relationship stands out among the rest of the side cast because of the way their powers work. Kerry lives within Cary and only ages when outside, creating a kind of father-daughter relationship. Cary is a docile, old scientist while Kerry is a headstrong young woman always
looking to fight. One scene illustrates how close the two are. Cary is in his lab quietly working while Kerry is out on a mission. As she pounds on dozens of Division 3 mooks, the show cuts back to Cary in his lab. He’s suddenly on his feet, moving in sync with Kerry as she fights miles away, like a superpowered tango. Superpowers in general are another thing “Legion” nails. Rather than existing solely as an excuse for expensive special effects and cool fight scenes, the powers in “Legion” tie into the plot of the character’s development. For example, David and Syd must learn how to be a couple without being able to touch. For me, a lot of the appeal with superhero comics is the way creators weave in the more ridiculous ideas from that tapestry into the story. These things complicate the comic on the surface, but at its core is a simple hero’s journey. Adaptations usually seem ashamed to touch on the ridiculous things in the comic book universe. Netflix doesn’t even put their heroes in spandex until the very last episode, if that. “Legion” is not afraid to dip its toes in the unusual and the absurd, while still being a superb superhero story.
‘Rick and Morty’ premieres third season By Heidi Cho News Assistant “Rick and Morty” is a dark comedy show that follows the interdimensional adventures of a mad scientist and his rather unintelligent grandson, Morty. In the last episode, Rick turns himself in to the Galactic Federation for the endless list of crimes he has committed as a freedom fighter in return for his family’s ability to live a normal life on their version of Earth recently brought under Galactic Federation rule. Under the Galactic Federation, Earth is technically the safest it’s ever been with the aid of its advanced alien technology. Diagnosis and treatment are immediate, everyone is kept healthy and all those able to work are assigned jobs by the Galactic Federation, much to Jerry’s, Rick’s son-inlaw, excitement. Rick’s character flaws have been demonstrated time and time again in the show, and his other family members certainly don’t like him any better for it. Jerry Smith is the epitome of every foolish human being. He acts in contrast with Rick’s obvious genius. He is consistently overlooked by other members of the family, and deplores Rick
for good reason –– Rick is selfdestructive and has a tendency to leave people behind in his catastrophic mistakes. One huge mistake lands Rick in jail, which prompts Morty and Summer, Rick’s granddaughter, to attempt to bust him out. The episode really demonstrates how powerful, deadly and genius Rick really is. His character growth is almost palpable. He spent the entire episode getting revenge on Jerry, who wanted to turn Rick in in the first place. Rick is unsympathetically a prick of epic proportions, but also a complex anti-hero capable of making the audience believe that he cares both about his family and his szechuan dipping sauce. His characterization remains true. Even Justin Roiland, the show’s creator, works hard to prevent Rick from becoming a one dimensional character. The amusing and complex characters complement the sci-fi show, and its undertone makes light of messed up situations in their twisted entirety. It takes cliches and terrible situations, and embraces how funnily messed up it is. The show wants us to laugh at our insignificance compared to the vastness of the world, and
uses a running shit gag in the episode to do it. It manages to keep even this tense episode hilarious. Morty’s character becomes more developed, as well. Through his interactions with Summer, he gets to share information about the multiverse he has learned about. His character development shows when he defiantly snarks at authority while being held prisoner, and shared some wisdom about Rick. “Ricks hate themselves the most, and our Rick is the most himself,” Morty said.
For those reasons and more, Morty doesn’t buy the idea that Rick is a hero like Summer does. He instead calls Rick out as someone akin to “a demon or a super fucked up god.” Ultimately, the relationship between Rick and Morty keeps the show real. It holds itself to the laws it sets, at least the ones that Rick hasn’t broken yet anyways. It makes the show refreshingly poignant and hilarious, and the season premiere is a fantastic opening for what will be a great season.
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Morty gets drawn into Rick’s dangerous experiments.
This week, WTSR Music staff members Jamie Gehringer and Tyler Bonpietro highlight some of the best new albums that the College’s own radio station, 91.3 FM WTSR, puts into its weekly rotation.
Band Name: Novella Album Name: “Change of State” Release Number: 2nd Hailing From: U.K. Genre: Dreamy-Funk Chill Music Label: Sinderlyn Records Novella produced a relaxing and enigmatic sound on “Change of State.” The female vocals are dreamy and angelic, complimented with dazy background synth, yet contrasted with funky guitar, drums and bass. Every song on this album could be used as background music for movies or television shows. That being said, this album is perfect study and chilling-on-the-beach music. These are the kind of jams that are easy to listen to, but also easy to get lost in because of the complex dimensions. No matter if you want to listen to something mellow or upbeat, this album has songs that are the perfect in-between. Must Hear: “A Thousand Feet,” “Come In” and “Four Colours”
Band Name: Ryan Adams Album Name: “Prisoner” Release Number: 16th Hailing From: Raleigh, N.C. Genre: Country(ish) Rock & Roll Label: Pax AM/Blue Note Ryan Adams is a figure in popular music that has always existed on the cusp of popularity; never having a hit after more than 20 years of releasing pretty underrated music. On his new record, “Prisoner,” Adams has gone back to making the music that he knows and loves, and it shows. While the album undeniably lags at certain points (please do not play “To Be Without You”), a lot of the songs, such as the title track, strongly reflect Adams’ return to roots. If you’ve ever wanted to remember all of the best part of the ’80s, this is the album for you. Must Hear: “Do You Still Love Me?,” “Prisoner,” “Anything I Say to You Now” and “We Disappear”
April 12, 2017 The Signal page 27
Fun Stuff Foods of the Passover Seder Crossword Puzzle
ANSWERS ON PAGE 29
page 28 The Signal April 12, 2017
Fun StufF Easter Egg Hunt
April 12, 2017 The Signal page 29
Fun Stuff
WORD BANK
PASSOVER ANSWER KEY ACROSS 3. Karpas 4. Beitzah 6. Matzot 7. Maror
DOWN 1. Charoset 2. Chazeret 5. Zroa
page 30 The Signal April 12, 2017
Sports
Tennis
Men’s and women’s tennis pile up wins at home By Miguel Gonzalez Sports Editor
Both the men’s and women’s teams were victorious this week. On Wednesday, April 5, the Lions defeated Division I Lafayette College, 8-3. They then defeated Ithaca College, 7-2, on Saturday, April 8, and narrowly won against Franklin and Marshall College, 5-4, on Sunday, April 9. Meanwhile, the Lady Lions blasted Ithaca College, 7-2, on Saturday, April 8. After enduring a 8-1 loss against the University of Mary Washington last week, the Lions rebounded with three consecutive victories. With the weather warming up, the Lions moved away from indoor play at the Student Recreation Center and played their first home match at the Tennis Complex against the Leopards. “Our team needs to beat as many opponents as possible in order to qualify for the NCAA tournament,” head coach Scott Dicheck said. “It’s tougher for the men’s team to make it because we are independent. We don’t have a conference to win and at-large bids are challenging to obtain.” The Lions began the meet by sweeping the Leopards in the doubles competition. The team
Sanders wins his singles match in three competitive sets. continued their momentum into singles where they lost only one match. Leopards freshman Drew Brooks defeated junior Chris D’Agostino in two sets, 6-4 and 6-3. On Saturday, the Lions beat Ithaca College, 7-2. Even though the Lions only conceded singles matches, each win was hard fought.
After sweeping a doubles competition with fellow sophomore Matt Puig, sophomore Mitchel Sanders prevailed over Stavrakas in two close sets. In the last singles match, senior Mike Stanley came from behind to beat Bombers sophomore Sam McGrath and gained the match point in a 10-7 set.
Photo courtesy of Sports Information Desk
While the men’s team was disposing the Bombers, the Lady Lions were detonating the Bombers at Mercer County Park in West Windsor Township, N.J. Sophomore Alyssa Baldi impressed at the meet when she blanked Bombers sophomore Taylor Ginestro in two consecutive 6-0 sets. The men’s tennis team finished
the weekend with a close 5-4 win against Franklin and Marshall College. In doubles, the Lions held a 2-1 advantage against the Diplomats. Both teams then fought equally in singles. With a 4-3 deficit, the Lions rallied to win two consecutive matches. The rally started when sophomore Tim Gavornik defeated Diplomats junior Will Samuels to tie the day at 4. In the deciding singles match, Stanley prevailed over Diplomats freshman Andrew Pace to give the Lions the 5-4 victory. “Stanley is a seasoned veteran for our team,” Dicheck said. “He can handle a lot of pressure while performing well. Guys like him improve everyday to win in these types of situations.” The Lions will play at the Tennis Complex against Muhlenberg College on Wednesday, April 12, at 3:30 p.m. The team is then scheduled to travel to Collegeville, Pa., to compete against Ursinus College on Thursday, April 13. Meanwhile, the Lady Lions will take on crosstown rival Rider University at Lawrenceville, N.J., on Tuesday, April 11. The women’s team will then play against New York University at home on Thursday, April 13, at 3 p.m.
Cheap Seats
Romo leaves polarizing legacy for Cowboys fans By Michael Battista Staff Writer
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo announced his retirement on April 4 after 12 seasons in the NFL. After hearing the news, I wasn’t exactly sure how to feel. As a Giants fan, should I be happy that the old enemy is finally retiring? Should I be sad that the guy who notoriously chokes under pressure or gets hurt midway through the season is giving someone better a chance? As a player, Romo has always been average with spurts of greatness. In his first full season in 2006, Romo led the league in average passing yards with 8.6. In 2007, he lead Dallas to a 13-3 record and the NFC East title while throwing a career high 36 touchdowns. He was selected to the Pro-Bowl four times and was known as one of the best fourth quarter quarterbacks in the league — during the regular season. For all of his accomplishments, Romo had just as many faults that never eluded him. In his second game against the Giants on Oct. 23, 2006, he had a huge opportunity to make an impact after then-Dallas starter Drew Bledsoe was taken out of the game due to a poor first half. Romo’s first throw was intercepted by the Giants and was one of three interceptions during the game, including a pick-six. He passed for 14 of 25 and earned 227 yards while throwing two touchdowns in the loss, 36-22. Romo’s career was filled with multiple instances of coming up short after making it so far. In 2006, he led the team to the first playoff round against the Seattle Seahawks. He gave the Cowboys the lead through most of the game, before Seattle came back to make it 21-20 with more than two minutes remaining. Romo led the team to Seattle’s eight-yard line on fourth down, where a field goal would win them the game. At this time, Romo still served the team as a holder during kicks and all he needed to do was catch the ball and allow kicker Martin Gramatica to execute the field goal. Instead, he botched the snap and was tackled after trying to run the ball into the endzone. The Cowboys would end up losing the game.
This was the origin of Romo’s choking nature. During his career, Romo would only win two playoff games out of a total six. Then there were a lot of injuries. During his career, Romo suffered several injuries that took him out for varying amounts of time. There was the broken right pinkie finger in 2008, when he missed the playoffs and the Cowboys went 1-2 to finish the season without him. He broke his left collarbone in 2010 against the Giants, and he ruptured a disk in 2013, which caused him to miss a winner-takes-all game against the Philadelphia Eagles, in which his team lost. He had two transverse process fractures in 2014, followed by breaking his left collarbone twice the next season in 2015. Finally, he suffered a compression fracture in his L1 vertebra in 2016, allowing rookie quarterback Dak Prescott to take the league by storm in Romo’s absence. So, in the end, who is Romo? He’s an average player whose name was universally known throughout the league with greats like former-Denver quarterback Peyton Manning and Brady. Fans knew Romo and they worried about which version of him their team would be facing. Would he be the player who could pinpoint hail mary’s to win close games or would he be the guy to take a bad hit, fumble the ball and be out for a few games? He’s almost like a opposite version of Eli Manning, who also joined the league in 2004. Both are known for their late game heroics when it comes to comeback wins, but Manning could do it beyond November. Both of them have struggled in the first round of the playoffs, with both only getting past the opening round twice. In contrast to Romo always losing in the second round, Manning went all the way to win a Super Bowl ring — twice! Both players had to deal with polarizing defensive teams during their careers. However, Manning has earned a reputation for being durable and taking hard hits before getting back up, while Romo endured careerending hits. Romo is now leaving the football field for the broadcasters booth, joining CBS as a color commentator
alongside the legendary Jim Nantz. It’s going to be nice having someone who’s fresh off the field to call games, especially since Romo’s played against so many of the teams he’ll be watching. As a football fan, it’s nice to see such a recognizable and talented player continue to work in the league in a new role. But as a typical Giants fan, it’s nice he finally figured out the NFL is too tough and is now taking a job to commentate on players who might actually win a Super Bowl.
AP Photo
Romo joins CBS’s NFL broadcasting crew.
April 12, 2017 The Signal page 31
Track and field blossom at home invitational Track and Field
By Nicole DeStefano Staff Writer
The women’s and men’s track and field teams hosted their first home meet of the season on Saturday, April 8. More than 60 universities and athletic clubs competed at the TCNJ Invitational. In the 200-meter dash, freshman Samantha Gorman crossed the line in 25.84, finishing in fifth place. Junior Danielle Celestin also placed 12th overall. She clocked with a time of 26.40. Gorman then placed fifth in the 400-meter dash with a time of 59.70. In the same event, Katie LaCapria finished eighth with a time of 1:01.17. “My 400 was definitely not the best I’ve ran,” Gorman said. “The wind was pretty strong during the race, so I felt it a lot, making it difficult for me to finish strong. However I’m not unhappy with my time, it just makes me more excited to run it again next week. I’m really excited about my 200 time.” The Lady Lions had a strong showing in the 110-meter hurdles. Junior Meagan McGourty finished in third place with a time of 15.79. In sixth place was freshman Kristen Hall with a time of 16.05. The women also found success in the 400-meter hurdles. Junior Jenna Ellenbacher took second place with a time of 1:05.88. In third place was freshman Nicole
Photo courtesy of Sports Information Desk
Guglielmo finishes second in the pole vault. Tampone, who crossed the finish line in 1:07.27. Freshman Christine Woods clocked in at 1:07.72 for fourth place. In the distance events, junior Allison Fournier clocked in at 2:23.32 in the 800-meter dash for fourth place. In the 1500-meter run, junior Caroline Moore came in at 11th place with a time of 11:03.33. In the field events, senior
Tracy Prentice had a strong showing in the pole vault. She placed first overall with a clear of 3.25 meters. Sophomore Madison Heft came in third place, jumping 2.95 meters. In the high jump, Hall finished in second place with a height of 1.55 meters. On Friday night, sophomore Erin Holzbaur competed at the Sam Howell Invitational in
Princeton, N.J. Holzbaur ran a time of 11:02 and placed third out of 16 runners. The men also had a successful home meet. Senior Jake Lindacher had two top-10 performances in the 100-meter hurdles and 100-meter dash. In the 100-meter hurdles, Lindacher clocked in at 15.12 to come in eighth place. Lindacher also placed fifth in the 100-meter dash with a time of 11.10.
In the 200-meter dash, sophomore Nathan Osterhus came in sixth place with a time of 22.53. Osterhus also placed ninth in the 400-meter dash, finishing at 50.99. Sophomore Thomas Livecchi came in fourth with a time of 50.17. “I’m looking to compete and get better everyday,” Osterhus said. “NJACs and nationals are the end goals, so those are the most important times of the season. In the upcoming weeks, I’m looking to drop my times and reach my goals that we set in the beginning of the season.” Freshman Daniel Pflueger clocked in at 57.03 in the 400-meter hurdles to secure a fifth-place finish. The duo of junior Dale Johnson and sophomore Quinn Wasko had solid performances in the distance events, both placing ninth in their respective races. Johnson ran 4:09.70 in the 1500-meter event and Wasko finished with a time of 9:06.71 in the 3000-meter race. In the field events, senior Chris Guglielmo cleared at 4.60 meters in the pole vault for second place. The Lions will be compete at two meets next weekend. On Friday, April 14, and Saturday, April 15, the team will travel to Moravian College for the Greyhound Invitational. Also on April 15, several team members will compete at Widener University for the Chester Quarry Classic.
Softball
Softball endures rough outings, pulls out lone win By Maximillian C. Burgos Sports Assistant The Lions had a few rough outings this week. On Wednesday, April 5, they split a doubleheader against Rutgers UniversityCamden, winning 4-1 and losing 7-6. Later on Saturday, April 8, the team dropped both games in a doubleheader against
William Paterson University, losing 2-7 and 4-5. Junior pitcher Sam Platt was the only pitcher in the week to pull out a win. In the doubleheader against Rutgers University-Camden, the Lions struck first in game one. Freshman infielder/outfielder Annalise Suitovsky hit an RBI single, putting the Lions on the board early. The Scarlet Raptors responded and tied the
Photo courtesy of Sports Information Desk
Mayernik hits a single against the Scarlet Raptors.
game at 1 in the top of the fourth inning. In the bottom of the fifth inning, the Lions rallied and scored three runs, which extended their lead to 4-1. Junior outfielder Madison Levine started the rally with a single to left field to get on base. Freshman infielder Megan Mayernik followed with a single to right field. “We came out ready to swing and hit the ball hard,” head coach Sally Miller said. “Our approach in the box to their pitchers were really good and focused. We had many good swings and took the ball deep. Their outfielders were camped on us, otherwise we would have a few more extra bases.” Sophomore infielder/outfielder Jess Santelli then hit a sacrifice bunt to bring both runners in. Junior infielder Danielle Carey kept the inning alive with another single to right field. Senior infielder Colleen Phelan dropped a well-placed squeeze bunt, driving another run with the Lions fifth hit of the inning. Platt allowed just two hits in the complete game victory. “Platt is a real competitor,” Miller said. “She struggled at Cabrini University and to her credit we worked through some mechanical issues. She is throwing more and continuing to work through tough hitters.” In the second game of the doubleheader, the Lions defense fell apart early. The Lions were in disarray by the top of the fifth inning. The Lions gifted the Scarlet Raptors four runs on a series of four walks, a hitbatter, two singles and a wild pitch. The Lions did respond, though, scoring three runs with an RBI double to left field by Santelli. The Scarlet Raptors scored
two more at the top of the second. Junior infielder/catcher Danielle Carey answered with a two-run single at the bottom of the third, but the Lions comeback was not enough. The Lions ultimately fell, 6-7. The Lions skid continued into the doubleheader against William Paterson University. The team only two runs in the first game. Junior catcher Jenna Schwartz and freshman infielder Megan Mayernik scored off of RBIs in the fifth inning. The Pioneers scored steadily throughout the game, giving the Lions a 7-2 loss. The second game started similarly to the previous game with the Pioneers scoring a run in the first and adding two more in the bottom of the third. At the top of the fifth, the Lions hit Santelli and sophomore infielder/catcher Jess McGuire hit back-to-back doubles and got a run on the board. After a walk, Levine hit the team’s third double of the inning to tie the game at 3. The score was tied until the top of the seventh when Suitovsky ripped an RBI to give the Lions a 4-3 lead. At the bottom of the ninth inning, the Pioneers won the game with a two-run walk off homer to earn them the sweep. “Conference play is real high level of play,” Miller said. “(We) can’t take a game off which is the toughest part of it. Sometimes, it could be letting one game slip away that decides if a team make the conference tournament.” The Lions look to rebound on at Dr. June Walker Field on Tuesday, April 11, at 3 p.m., where they will play Rowan University in a doubleheader. Later on Saturday, April 15, the Lions play Ramapo College at a doubleheader in Mahwah, N.J.
Signal
Sports
Baseball stomps Rugters-Camden, splits with Ramapo
Persichetti smacks five hits during the doubleheader. By Miguel Gonzalez Sports Editor The Lions continued their campaign for a New Jersey Athletic Conference title on the road this week. On Friday, April 7, the Lions made a late comeback at home to beat Rutgers University-Camden, 6-4. The Lions then traveled north and split a doubleheader against Ramapo College, 6-0 and 6-3. After four scoreless innings,
the Scarlet Raptors drove in four runs in the bottom of the fifth inning. Raptors senior outfielder Zach Ellin walked to home plate after junior pitcher Brandon Zachary issued a walk and then balked the runner. The next play, the Scarlet Raptors scored again when senior first baseman/outfielder Frank Cerami IV reached home plate off a Lions throwing error. The Scarlet Raptors finished the inning with two more runs after Lions committed two
Photo courtesy of Sports Information Desk
back-to-back throwing errors. In the top of the seventh inning, junior outfiedler Mike Follet ripped a single to right field, allowing junior infielder Zachary Shindler to score the Lions first run. In the following play, Scarlet Raptors sophomore pitcher Ian Scheidemann caught Follet stealing second base as freshman outfielder Jacob Simon sprinted to home base for run. The Lions offense continued to drive in more runs in the eighth and ninth
innings on their way to a 6-4 win. The Lions then trekked north for a conference doubleheader against the reigning NJAC champions, Ramapo College. In the first game, the Lions were able to defeat the Roadrunners for the first time in four years, 6-0. The team blanked the Roadrunners as junior pitcher Joe Cirello struck out 10 batters and conceded four hits. Both teams held each other scoreless until the Lions scored three runs in the top of the fourth inning. Sophomore infielder/pitcher Tommy McCarthy hit a single to center field, allowing Follet to score. The Lions then scored two more runs off of RBIs. At the top of sixth, freshman outfielder Thomas Persichetti hit a double to left field, giving McCarthy a chance to add another run. “We scored six runs by having good at bats and getting timely hits,” head coach Dean Glus said. “We never gave up and the players did a great job in believing in themselves. We played a very good game and Joe Cirillo had an outstanding day on the mound.” The Roadrunners got revenge in the second game, beating the Lions 6-3. In the bottom of the second inning, the Roadrunners struck first when junior outfielder Joe Maugeri ripped a single to center field, driving in two runs. The Lions tied the game at 2 in the following inning. Shindler
blasted a triple, allowing Persichetti and senior infielder Ben Varone to score. Two innings later, McCarthy put the Lions ahead when he hit an RBI to send senior catcher CJ Gearhart to home plate. The team was not able to hold their lead for long as the Roadrunners drove in four runs in the bottom of the fifth. The Roadrunners comeback began when Maugeri scored off of senior outfielder Brandon Martinez’s single. With the bases loaded, the Roadrunners scored another run when sophomore pitcher Michael Fischer hit the batter. Junior infielder Bobby Shannon then ripped a double to left field, driving in two runs and giving the Roadrunners a 6-3 lead. The Lions could not stage a comeback as Roadrunners sophomore pitcher Greg Westhelle silenced their offense. On Tuesday, April 11, the Lions will play Farmingdale State College at home at 3:30 p.m. On Thursday, April 13, the Lions travel to Galloway, N.J., for an away conference match against Stockton University. On Friday, April 14, the Ospreys return the favor as they play the Lions at George Ackerman Park at 3:30 p.m. The team then concludes the week with a conference doubleheader against Montclair State University on Saturday, April 15.
Lions top national polls with dominant perfomance By Miguel Gonzalez Sports Editor The lacrosse team earned two victories this week. On April 4, the Lions splurged against Stevens Institute of Technology, beating the Ducks, 12-3. Later on Saturday, April 8, the team claimed its first conference win against Montclair State University, 8-3. On Monday, April 10, the Intercollegiate Women’s Lacrosse Coaches Association announced the Lions as the current No.1 team in NCAA Division III Women’s Lacrosse. It has been nearly six years since the Lions topped the IWLCA poll. After a narrow 7-6 win against Gettysburg College, the Lions cruised through the Ducks at Lions Stadium. In the seventh minute, the Ducks struck first when senior midfielder Kathleen Kalbian rebounded a shot for a goal. The Lions then responded and scored two consecutive goals. Junior defender Elizabeth Morrison caused a turnover and flicked to ball to senior attacker Mia Blackman. After cradling through Duck defenders, Blackman hurled in a shot for a goal. Less than two minutes later, sophomore midfielder Kathleen Jaeger scored. The Lions offense produced two more goals at the end of the first half. Freshman midfielder Alexandria Fitzpatrick scooped in the ball and passed it to junior midfielder Amanda Muller. Muller then fired a shot straight at the Ducks net to give the Lions a 4-2 lead. In the next Lions possession, sophomore midfielder Erin Harvey padded the Lions lead with another goal.
Lions Lineup April 12, 2017
I n s i d e
The Lions dominated the Ducks in the second half, scoring seven goals while only conceding one. Jaeger scored four consecutive goals to anchor the offense. The following Saturday, the team won its first New Jersey Athletic Conference match at Montclair State University. After 13 minutes of stalemate play, the Lions broke through when Blackman’s shot landed past the goal line and the referees declared it a goal. In the next play, Red Hawks senior attacker Lindsay Lare quickly tied the match at 1. Muller nearly scored off a free position attempt in the 19th minute, but Red Hawks freshman goalkeeper Amanda Maguire caught her shot for a save. With seven minutes remaining in the first half, Jaeger put the Lions ahead when she scored off a free position attempt. Lare tied the match at 2 in the next play when she hurled in a shot. The Lions offense exploded in the second half, scoring six goals. After Blackman scored another goal off a free position attempt, the Lions never stopped scoring as their lead accumulated. Meanwhile, the Red Hawks scored only once early in the half. “There have been so many amazing moments that happened on the field, funny and serious.” Morrison said. “The experiences forged bonds with within us. Nothing beats the feeling of waking up on game day or jamming out pre-game music in the locker room. Most importantly is the feeling of giving 100 percent and walking off the field satisfied.” So far into the season, the Lions have outscored their opponents, 90-33, and out shot them, 209-78. Jaeger is
Tennis page 30
Track and Field page 31
Photo courtesy of Sports Information Desk
Jaeger scores six goals.
currently the Lions leading scorer with 26 goals followed by Blackman with 18 goals. Meanwhile, the Lions solid defense has caused 86 turnovers. The Lions will compete on the road this week as they travel to Camden, N.J., for a conference match against Rutgers University-Camden on Tuesday, April 11. Later on Saturday, April 15, the Lions head down to Salisbury, Md., to play against the No. 13 ranked Salisbury University Sea Gulls.
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