Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University theavion.com | (386) 226-6049
Issue 1 | Volume 153 | January 27, 2020
What’s Inside?
A Campus B Industry & Technology C Motorsports
A3 See how the Embry-Riddle Ice Hockey team defeated the University of Miami at home on page A3.
Gianna Castano/The Avion Newspaper
B2 Read about Embry-Riddle students’ accomplishments in the Aerospace Maintenance Competition on page B2.
C3 See the results of this year’s Rolex 24 event on page C3.
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A2 In Memoriam
Executive Board Editor-in-Chief Managing Editor News Editor Business Manager Photo Editor
Vipul Telang Alani Seaman Oliver Du Bois Payton Muglia Connor Adair
Page Editors Cover Editor Alani Seaman Campus Editors Mike Shekari Sarah Fairchild Oliver Du Bois Brandon Etwarroo Payton Muglia Alex Lee Industry Editors Connor Strobel Kevin Ratzel Brendan Rohan Victoria Jordan Motorsports Editors Vipul Telang Connor Adair Comics Editor Alex Lee Copy Editors Sarah Fairchild Brandon Etwarroo Chirag Mehrotra
Contributors
Reporters Photographers
Oliver Du Bois Mike Shekari Vipul Telang Sarah Fairchild Korbin Martin
Brandon Etwarroo Connor Adair Vipul Telang Jack Rachek Korbin Martin
Correspondents
Caleigh Bocrie, Keenan Thungtrakul, Nicholas Reuss, Abbey Otero, Alex Lee
Staff Advisor Ronnie Mack Asst. Director, Media & Marketing
Contact Information Main Phone: (386) 226-6049 Business Manager: (386) 226-7697 Editor-In-Chief: editor@theavion.com Managing Editor: managing@theavion.com News Editor: news@theavion.com Business Manager: business@theavion.com Photo Editor: photo@theavion.com
Website: theavion.com @theavionnewspaper u/theavionnewspaper @The_Avion @TheAvion
The Avion is produced weekly during the fall and spring term, and bi-weekly during summer terms. The Avion is produced by a volunteer student staff. Student editors make all content, business and editorial decisions. The editorial opinions expressed in The Avion are solely the opinion of the undersigned writer(s), and not those of EmbryRiddle Aeronautical University, the Student Government Association, The Avion, or the student body. Letters appearing in The Avion are those of the writer, identified at the end of the letter. Opinions expressed in the “Student Government” and “Student Life” sections are those of the identified writer. Letters may be submitted to The Avion for publication, provided they are not lewd, obscene or libelous. Letter writers must confine themselves to less than 800 words. Letters may be edited for brevity and formatted to newspaper guidelines. All letters must be signed. Names may be withheld at the discretion of the Editorin-Chief. The Avion is an open forum for student expression. The Avion is a division of the Student Government Association. The Avion is a member of the Associated Collegiate Press. The costs of this publication are paid by the Student Government Association and through advertising fees. The Avion distributes one free copy per person. Additional copies are $0.75. Theft of newspapers is a crime, and is subject to prosecution and Embry-Riddle judicial action. This newspaper and its contents are protected by United States copyright law. No portion of this publication may be reproduced, in print or electronically, without the expressed written consent of The Avion. Correspondence may be addressed to: The Avion Newspaper, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, 1 Aerospace Blvd, Daytona Beach, Florida 32114. Physical office: Student Union, Room 219.
Remembering Terry Lam
Photo Courtesy/Megan Christovich
Oliver Du Bois News Editor
Terry Yennhi Lam, age 19, has recently passed away on Jan. 2, 2020. A former Embry-Riddle Daytona student in the Software Engineering program, Terry was an absolute joy to everyone she came across. Though seemingly shy and reserved at first, those who knew Terry describe her as bubbly and energetic. A brilliant student, Terry was dedicated to her education. She was a member of the Emerging Leadership Program (ELP) as well, and absolutely adored it. She had a great time learning more about leadership skills and receiving the chance to meet with other future campus leaders. Academics aside, Terry was an extremely tech-savvy individual, often known for her large computer set made complete by beautiful lights. Another thing Terry was known for was her jokester personality. Her friend and former roommate, Leila, recalls a time when Terry made her a Spotify playlist entitled “for my beautiful roommate.” The only song on the playlist was the song, Forget You by CeeLo Green. This is only one of many instances showcasing Terry’s unmatched sense of humor. Her friend and former suitemate, Megan, remembered how they would leave notes for each other on mirrors in the suites. One
Photo Courtesy/Leila Alamos
Photo Courtesy/Megan Christovich
of the letters from Terry stated that she lost her toothbrush and had to borrow Megan’s instead. Exceedingly clever, Terry always had the most excellent practical jokes to pull on her friends. When she wasn’t messing with her friends, Terry could be found spending time with her dog, TJ (Terry Jr.), whom she adopted while in her dorm. TJ was adored by Terry, despite being a large troublemaker himself. There was a time when TJ even learned to open doors, and so he frequently attempted to escape the dorm when nobody was around. Even so, TJ was loved by everyone, Terry especially. There are many things Terry is remembered for by her friends,
such as decorating her room with little cutesy or Star-Wars themed knick-knacks. From going on sushi dates with her friends, to ordering takeout and watching South Park late at night with them, to going all the way to Orlando to get a tattoo of the quote, “be the victim or the victor,” she was always doing something that made her friends smile. The thing she will be most remembered for, however, is just how caring she was. Never one to complain, Terry always prioritized her friends no matter what. One of her favorite things to do was hear about how her friends were doing, to ask about their days, and make sure they were okay. An exceedingly loving and caring friend, Terry always wanted to be there for her friends. She wanted to know everything on their minds and do whatever she could to ensure them happiness even in the darkest of times. Though Terry has left this Earth, her loving memory is still carried on today by her friends and family. Her warm personality is one few will forget, and she will be memorialized for always taking care of her loved ones no matter the circumstances. Terry will be truly missed, and her mark on all those she knew will never fade.
Photo Courtesy/Megan Christovich
Abrielle Otero Correspondant On Jan. 15, 2020, the office of Fraternity and Sorority Life kicked off the Spring 2020 recruitment season with their iconic Meet the Greeks event. All active social fraternities and sororities were in attendance, including Embry-Riddle’s newest additions Beta Theta Pi and Sigma Kappa. Both Beta Theta Pi and Sigma Kappa were added to the Greek roster in the Fall 2019 semester after being voted and given extensions to join our university last spring. Right in the middle of the Connolly Quad, potential new members got to know our Greek organizations at their respective tents. All organizations decked-out their
tables and tents and brought giant Greek letters to show off what they’re about and their accomplishments. Some organizations even brought lawn games, such as cornhole, to socialize with students in a different way. Also, every affiliated member wore either their jersey or stitch letter shirts. It's always really cool to see all Greek organizations looking unified, yet showing off their individual values. The councils that oversee Greek life, the Interfraternity Council and the Panhellenic Council, also had tents set up. They were near the Wright Flyer with their executive board members sitting under them to help monitor the event and answer questions. Embry-Riddle’s own radio station the WIKD 102.5 DJ’d the event and
Brandon Etwarroo/The Avion Newspaper
really helped to give the event a more social atmosphere. Wonderful conversations took place, ranging from stories of lifelong friendship to fond philanthropy service memories. All of this was done to recruit more students into their organizations. Spring recruitment is traditionally more relaxed and freeform than its fall counterpart. Men's recruitment ended on Jan. 25 with their bid day. Their recruitment season lasted a little over a week-long, while women’s recruitment is just beginning. Multiple recruitment events are coming up hosted by the four sororities we have on campus. Be sure to keep on the lookout at their Instagram accounts for more details. You can also find them here for your convenience!
Brandon Etwarroo/The Avion Newspaper
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Campus A3 It’s A Greek Thing Alpha Xi Delta
@alphaxideltaerau
Theta Phi Alpha
@theta_phi_alpha_erau
Sigma Kappa
@erausigmakappa
Sigma Sigma Sigma @erautrisigma
Brandon Etwarroo/The Avion Newspaper
The boys from Delta Epsilon spend quality time with their Members from Rush Pike stand around their sign, proudly displaying Friends from Alpha Xi Delta pose for a quick photo mascot. amidst the recruiting efforts. their Greek spirit during the event.
For more information about specific Greek organizations or Greek life, in general, please visit: campusgroups.erau.edu/fsl.
Ice Eagles Crush Miami:10-2 Korbin Martin Staff Reporter The Embry-Riddle Eagles hosted the University of Miami Hurricanes in front of a huge home crowd on Friday, Jan. 10. The Eagles jumped out to a 5-0 lead in the first period. #9 Jack Bokun, #11 Noah Austin, and #18 Remy Hautau all scored a goal in the first, while #5 Adam Letarte scored two goals.
and dominated the Hurricanes 8-3. The Hurricanes looked competitive and kept the score even at 3-3 at the end of the 2nd period, but the Eagles were just too much and scored five goals to the Hurricanes' zero in the 3rd period. #9 Jack Bokun and #41 Matthew Sillcocks scored in the first period, and Bokun would score again in the 2nd. The 3rd period saw #43 Kyle Usiak, #42 Ryan Marks, #62 Adrian Debrah, and #11 Noah Austin score, with Debrah scoring twice. Goalie Nico Prulhiere also showed his skills in saving 22 of the 25 shots that were sent his way for a 0.88 save percentage.
The Eagles traveled to Colorado on Jan. 18 and 19 to play the Air Force Academy. The Jan. 18 game didn't go too well as the Air Force Academy outscored the Eagles 8-1 with the lone goal scored by #18 Remy Hautau. The Eagles improved their play somewhat on the 19th but still lost 4-2 with #44 Brantley Miller and #62 Adrian Debrah being the scorers in the loss. The team’s next home game will be on Friday, Jan. 31, at the Daytona Ice Arena. The Eagles will take on in conference rival; The University of South Florida Bulls. Come out and support your Eagles!
Korbin Martin/The Avion Newspaper
#41 Matthew Sillcocks faces off against his opponent, Miami’s #24.
Korbin Martin/The Avion Newspaper
Ice Eagles #9 Jack Bokun looks for the pass.
Letarte would go on to score two more goals, one in the second and one in the third for a total of four goals against the Hurricanes. #28 Benjamin Malczewski, #83 Bryce Korner, and #18 Remy Hautau scored the other three goals in the second and third periods. Max Minervini was nearly perfect on Friday, saving 23 of 25 shots for a 0.92 save percentage. The Eagles played the Hurricanes on Saturday, Jan. 11 as well,
Upcoming Game Schedule Jan. 31: University of South Florida @ 6:30 p.m. Feb. 1: University of South Florida @ 5:00 p.m. Feb. 7-9: SCHC Playoffs @ TBD Korbin Martin/The Avion Newspaper
The Ice Eagles prepare to dominate the ice in their game against the University of Miami.
Feb 21: Florida Southern @ 6:30 p.m.
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A4 Student Life
If a Witcher, a Sorceress, and a Princess Met at a Bar….
Caleigh Bocrie Correspondent …it would be in Netflix’s new series The Witcher. This new Netflix show, eight episodes in length for its first season, is based on the literary series written by Andrzej Sapkowski and the video game series by CD Projekt Red. I know The
Yennefer, played by Anya Chalotra.
Witcher from the video games, so when I heard there’d be a tv series about it, you bet I was excited. The entire first season was authentic to the fantastical, bizarre, and intense aura the video games love to demonstrate. We follow three different yet connected sto-
ries of the main cast. There is Geralt of Rivia (Henry Cavill), a Witcher who gets paid to kill monsters; Yennefer (Anya Chalotra), a sorceress who goes through incredible challenges in search for power; and Ciri (Freya Allan), a young princess who is thrust into a harsh world in search of Geralt. To someone who is brand new to The Witcher, this Netflix series may be a lot to digest, the show delving into some complex lore from episode one along with an initially unclear separation in times between the three stories. The show does very little to explain the lore or the sequence between stories. Some stories take place days between each other. In contrast, other stories may take place decades before, and sometimes they take place one after the other. Honestly, some simple explanation would have been useful before getting into more than three episodes. Although difficult to digest at first, the show progressively comes to explain the world The Witcher takes place in, where good and evil doesn’t seem to exist, monsters (human or otherwise) terrorize the land, and destiny has a deathlike grip on all who inhabit it. The stories of Geralt and Ciri are underdeveloped. There is little character development for Ciri as a character. She is mostly portrayed as a young, naïve little girl who possesses great power. With little connection between Ciri’s story and the other two stories spanning most of the season, she appears to be nothing more than a prop set in place for Season 2. Geralt seems only to be useful for presenting the viewer with incredible battles against ferocious mon-
Netflix: The Witcher’s Promotional Image
Geralt of Rivia, played by Henry Cavill.
sters. Henry Cavill does a convincing performance displaying who Geralt is as a character but faces limitations due to the moderately disappointing script. Yennefer’s story is the only story that truly caught my attention. Yennefer’s origin story shows her transformation from a disfigured and abused girl to a great and powerful sorceress. The story this season was exciting to experience as a fan of the series. I will admit that it may be off-putting to those unfamiliar to the Witcher. Something that I will commend this series on is the visuals. The sword fights between Geralt and humans are some of the best cinematic battles I’ve seen. However, the battles between Geralt and the monsters he’s paid to slay are lacking. When battling humans, there’s a sense of realness and intenseness that is unmeasurable. When fighting the world’s CGI monsters, it’s like watching a
cheap fantasy film. I would recommend this series for those familiar with The Witcher due to a core interest in the series. To those unfamiliar, I may suggest you do some research into the series before starting it.
“The aesthetics are incredible, displaying wondrous forests, bleak and dismal towns, and unforgiving landscapes all along with ferocious beasts and miraculous spells.” This Netflix series is a wonderful watch for those who enjoy fantasy, great action and The Witcher books or video games, but if you’re looking for something with an outstanding plot… this may not be for you.
Princess Ciri, played by Freya Allan
Image Courtesies/Netflix
THE AVION
A6 In Memoriam A Legacy of Service
The Life and Memory of Dr.Shar
Oliver Du Bois and Alexander Lee News Editor and Correspondent Dr. Shahrdad Sajjadi (Shar), a mathematics professor at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, recently passed away on Jan. 6, 2020. He was born in Tehran, Iran, on Feb. 1, 1961. He was raised in the U.K. and considered himself a true Brit. Despite that, he did gain U.S. citizenship 16 years ago. Shar has served in several capacities at Embry-Riddle, including the Chairman of the Mathematics department, Professor of Mathematics, Director of Research, and Professor of Theoretical Fluid Mechanics since 2005. He played a vital role in the development of the Bachelor of Science Computational Mathematics degree as well as laid down much of the foundation for the current operation of the mathematics department. Shar was one few individuals that never felt the fear of math
and had an intense passion for his research and unparalleled insight into theoretical fluid mechanics. Beyond his research, he touched the lives of many during his years at Embry-Riddle through his unique sense of humor, intellectual conversations, and his restlessly sincere, big caring heart. Students adored Shar, to the extent of many taking his classes to see him again. Students of his expressed their love for him recently at his service, just showcasing even more how much he meant to them. He was very personable and would go out of his way to help others. He often volunteered his time to help colleagues with covering classes as well as lending his mathematical expertise to guide others in their research endeavors. Shar was a fierce mathematician, but also an avid lover of music. Some of his favorites included Deep Purple, Queen, and Pink
Floyd. He played the electric lead guitar in his twenties, for a band that toured pubs in the U.K. He also adored classical music, particularly compositions by Beethoven, which he frequently studied throughout his life. He composed and wrote symphonies, which he burnt on C.D.s and flash drives to share with whoever was interested. Another significant aspect of Shar’s life was his love for animals. Aside from his love for his dog, Clyde, Shar adored every animal he came across. He would befriend all animals, including strays, and could often be found conversing with animals in a kind and gentle fashion. He was called the “Cat Whisperer” because of his affinity for cats, which reflected his compassion for all living things. Shar was an avid collector of a multitude of things. He found a love in books, old-reeled films, projectors, and cameras after his
father introduced him to these collections when he was eight. His book collection was awe-inspiring, as he held an estimated 500+ books in his collection. Shar and his wife of 18 years, LuAnn, were married in Slidell, L.A., in 2002. The two were best friends, despite having a two-year long-distance relationship between the U.S. and the U.K. They traveled together frequently and filmed their vacations on some of the reels Shar collected. Upon first meeting with Shar, he clearly showed that he cared beyond himself and wanted others to be happy, successful, and have a passion for learning throughout their lives. He produced hundreds of publications and received a multitude of awards for his years of dedication to his research. Dr. Shar will be dearly missed, and his memory will live on through all who knew him.
Lifetime Accomplishments Bachelor of Science: Coventry University: England: 1984 Doctorate in Philosophy: Coventry University: England: 1988 Doctorate in Science: Cambridge University: England: 1992 Fellow of the Institute of Mathematics and its Applications: 1991 Fellow of the Royal Meteorological Society: 2018 Royal Charter in Mathematics by HRH Queen Elizabeth II: 1997 International Scientist of the Year by the University of Cambridge: 2004 Inclusion in 57th edition of Who’s Who in America Multiple Editions of Who’s Who in Science and Engineering Multiple Editions Who’s Who in the World. Published over 200 journal articles and several books Photographs provided by LuAnn Sajjadi
Photo Courtesy/NASA
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B2 Technology
The Road to AMC: The Maintenance Olympics
Sarah Fairchild Copy Editor
The Aerospace Maintenance Competition is the aviation Photo Courtesy/Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University equivalent to the Olympics, with a staggering 29 events ranging (Left to right) Immanuel Bankole, Christo pher Lambert, Tristan Anderson, Gregory from safety wiring to composite Algarin, College of Aviation Dean Dr. Alan repairs to ADS-B troubleshooting. Stolzer, Michael “Ben” Henriquez, ChrisTeams from all over the world and topher Culver, and AMS staff/AMC Team all walks of aviation (military, commanger, Christopher Piccone. mercial, business, GA, and aviaDuring the Olympics, teams and tion schools) travel to Dallas, TX, individuals compete in a variety of each vying for the opportunity to sports and activities to see who will prove their worth as maintenance emerge victorious: with the gold technicians. This year alone, a tomedal winners standing atop a tal of 90 teams have registered to three-tiered podium while confet- compete, two of which stem from ti falls around them and crowds Embry-Riddle’s own AMS departcheer. Thousands of people tune ment. in to watch the Olympics each Last year, the Society of Aircraft year, with worldwide competitors Technicians (SAT) club sent one cheering on their teams as they team, consisting of six undergradwork as fast as they can to re-rig uate students, to the AMC. Chris the controls of the airplane rudder. Paccone, the team’s manager
Photo Courtesy Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
and (at the time) professor’s assistant, helped iron out the logistics of training and travel. The team members themselves put in hundreds of hours of afterschool training in preparation for the event, working alongside the team from Jet Blue at their facility. The long nights eventually paid off, when the SAT club took home first place in the student’s division as well as two individual awards for professionalism. Now it is that time of year again for new challengers to take the stand in the 2020 AMC. This time, the SAT club will be sending not one, but two teams to the maintenance Olympics (with one as a prospectively all-female team). As the countdown begins, we’ll take a closer look at what exactly goes
on in that little building across from Flight Ops, on the road to AMC. With less than three months left to prepare, the students are about to begin the rigorous regimen of afterschool workshops, on top of long class hours as many members of the SAT club are still attending Aviation Maintenance Science classes (which run all day, every day from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.). Still, the determination and commitment from the AMS students are boundless, and when they truly put their minds to a task, not even the sky is the limit.
Photo Courtesy Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
In addition to the team’s first place win in the schools category, two students won individual awards: Immanuel Bankole secured a PAMA / PistonPower scholarship.
Boeing Starliner Orbital Flight Test: A Lesson in Safety
Image Courtesy/Boeing
Mike Shekari Staff Reporter The Boeing Starliner Orbital Flight Test mission may already feel like a distant memory since it broke headlines in December of last year. However, there is a crucial safety lesson from the mission likely missed unless close attention was paid to the entire event. For those who do not follow U.S. spaceflight efforts, the Starliner capsule, Boeing’s answer to putting the country back into American crewed spaceflight, failed to reach a proper orbit following an otherwise normal launch. The failure kept the spacecraft from completing several crucial mission objectives, including a safe docking attempt with the International Space Station (ISS). The Starliner did not reach its intended orbit because an automated mission clock malfunctioned, causing thrusters to fire prematurely and exhaust too much fuel. However, the Starliner was safely returned to earth a few days later despite difficulties earlier in the mission. The safety lesson became apparent during the press conference
following what Boeing self-described as an “off-nominal” situation surrounding the Starliner’s orbit. Members of the media attempted to gain an answer about NASA and Boeing’s intentions of performing another orbital flight test before launching humans inside the spacecraft. However, NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine and Boeing officials would not rule out the possibility of continuing with crewed missions without an entirely successful orbital flight test attempt. Considering moving forward with crewed flights without reattempting the orbital flight test may be evidence of an organizational barrier to safety within both NASA and Boeing in the realm of risk acceptance. Leaders from both organizations seem willing to tolerate the risks of not performing the orbital flight test again if the probability of an incident is low. The potential organizational barrier is aggravated by a desire to “get the job done” after nearly a decade of crewed spaceflight not being conducted in the U.S. The Starliner is an impressive craft that is designed to have at least three back-ups for each critical
system. The crew capsule also has undergone rigorous stress testing, according to Boeing officials at the Starliner factory. NASA and Boeing’s officials are also probably correct in their assessment that if a crew was on board when the mission clock malfunctioned, they could have corrected the situation manually before fuel levels reached a critical state. However, the fact that the malfunction happened and compromised mission objectives shows that Boeing has yet to work through every foreseeable ‘what-if’ scenario throughout the Starliner’s mission
profile. The U.S. space program has already suffered two catastrophic spaceflight accidents during the Space Shuttle program due to unnecessary risk acceptance behaviors, claiming the lives of 14 astronauts. To the outsider looking in, it seems prudent that Boeing and NASA elect to conduct another orbital flight test before crewed space flight in the Starliner Crew Capsule. Otherwise, an unsafe culture may once again grow in the U.S. space program, dooming it to repeat the tragedies of the past.
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Technology B3 Road to the Workforce One Alum’s Journey from College to Job
Keenan Thungtrakul Alumni Correspondent Taking a look back at my journey through college, there are plenty of things that I could have done better or done differently. Now, nearly six months into my full-time job, I’ve collected lessons I’ve learned on how to get here effectively while enduring the setbacks and letdowns to reflect on while I share them with you. I hope that you can obtain a better perspective on what it takes to make it out to the workforce without getting stuck in the land of job searching or a job that isn’t what you wanted from your degree. My freshman year began with me figuring out where I would go with my chosen degree. I had numerous questions going through my head as the year progressed. Where am I going? What will the future have in store for me? Will I like the work I’ll be going to do? What will my routine look like? I’ve found that the answers to these questions come with time. Freshman year wasn’t the first time I’ve asked myself those questions. My new career has me asking those questions again. I thought I had a plan figured out near the end of my college days, but that plan got turned on its head due to an unexpected tragedy. That tragedy, though, was the key to where I am now. I let the sudden turn of events guide me towards a new path. The road to a job from school has lots of room for the unexpected. It also has room for risks and rewards. My journey here was not without
risks, and I expected them. Expect to take risks as you journey through college. Growth doesn’t come by staying safe. It begins with a mustard seed of faith to venture beyond one’s comfort zone. You are trying something new like joining a new club; or learning to sword fight (yes, ERAU has a club for that). Others learn photography or explore the state (there are lots to see and do in Florida besides the beach and theme parks). Whatever you choose, take it as a chance to grow and learn more about yourself. Challenge yourself to do more than the minimum required and involve yourself where your interests lie. In doing so, you will build a network of connections to use later on. I’ve found that getting a job involves more than stellar academics. The reality I’ve noticed is that it’s not primarily about what you’ve done but who you know. Networking, meeting people in a professional setting, is essential. Equally important is the network of friends you build. Choose them wisely. You don’t know how they can help you later. I got my first internship through a reference from one of my friends who works at the company I interviewed for. That internship was the gateway to my job. Don’t underestimate the power of an internship or extracurricular project. They are your key talking points when pitching to recruiters at the Career Expo and in interviews when they ask you about what’s written on your resume. I’ve depended on my internship and project experience for the six interviews I went through before I landed the job I have now. I’ve
had my share of setbacks and letdowns, too. Expect them. The key is not giving up. Know yourself and know where you want to go. It may take several steps to get where you want to go, so be ready for them should you need to go that route. My career outlook has shifted since I began college. I thought I would become a spacecraft designer. Instead, I discovered space simulation software and decided to train to become a developer. I now work for a space software company that has ambitious goals and a positive work environment that keeps getting better. It may all sound like I’m living the dream, but I’m using this career as a stepping stone towards something more significant that I haven’t seen coming. That discovery, like my change of interests, came with time. Discovering your interests will be the key to
a successful career. Applying those interests in projects and internships will give you experience that you can share with companies. Those that have questions about where their interests lie can check out the book What Color Is Your Parachute by Richard Bolles. He presents a unique self-inventory that helps you discover your potential and what jobs might be suited for you. I worked through this book during my internship. The results told me that my aspiration to be a designer came second to my ambition to become a developer. My job has these two aspirations working hand in hand, which I consider a big win. Bolles’ book is updated every year, so check it out if you’re still in that questioning phase or want another tool you can use to help you succeed at the job search process.
Photo Courtesy/Lift Magazine
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B4 Technology
Disney+: Is Baby Yoda Enough to Dominate the Streaming Battle?
Nick is a graduate student in the Research in User eXperience (RUX) Lab in the Department of Human Factors and Behavioral Neurobiology. RUX investigates the usability and user experience of technology in our everyday world. This is a regular column that explores different technologies typically used by Embry-Riddle students. Nicholas Reuss Graduate Researcher Streaming services have become a part of our everyday lives, but how do we decide whether to try a new service when it comes out? We know what we like and are eager to try, but what contributes to positive user experience? Disney+ is one of the newer streaming services released on Nov. 12 of last year. How have things shaped up after its first three months? To figure out that answer, the RUX lab conducted a focus group and one-onone interviews to figure out what viewers think of the service. We asked a variety of questions trying to understand how people use it, where they watch it, how much they watch it, and of course, what they watch. What exactly is Disney+? Disney+ has pulled together years of footage ranging from 1934 (The Miracle On 34th Street) to films made around the end of 2019 (Avengers: End Game). Additionally, the service feature original shows and movies. Disney+ includes content from most of the other subsidiaries they own, including Marvel, Pixar, National Geographic, and Star Wars. With a range from classic films to old and new cartoons, there are a variety of options available to streamers. Disney+ also currently has 19 exclusive "originals" displayed on their home screen, which includes their most recognized exclusive "The Mandalorian," which now has all episodes available.
Image Courtesy: Nicholas Reuss
Disney + homepage
What do Viewers Think? So what did our focus group and interviews reveal about Disney+? Most students said that they were using either a family member or a friend’s account and that they didn’t want to pay for the account themselves. Students were willing to try the service if their parents would pay for it. Parents of these students said that the bundling options were the big reason why they signed up for the account. Verizon and Hulu both offered promotions for the service, which encouraged them to sign up. Hulu's bundle offered Disney+ and ESPN streaming for 12.99 a month while Verizon provided its customers with a free year of the Disney+ service. When asked about their usage, students reported using the account several times a week for at
least 2-3 hours each time while their parents tended to spend less time on the platform watching a movie once or twice a week. One thing several students mentioned was that they’ve found themselves returning less and less over time. When asked why they said it was because they still wanted to watch content from other streaming services and Disney+ lacked unique content. Exclusive content, like Netflix Originals such as "Stranger Things," is one of the things that compete with Disney+. Students reported that Disney+ doesn't have enough exclusive content. "The Mandalorian" is an example of one of Disney+'s newest original shows, but has already finished its first season. Students enjoy all of the nostalgic content on Disney+ from their childhood. However, it has been reported hat there are a lot of other shows from other services that compete for their time. With a limited interest in the other exclusives, it seems to most that Disney+ is in a lull for new, original content. How can Disney + improve?
Image Courtesy: Nicholas Reuss
Quick Comparison Table
Strengths and Weaknesses of Disney +
Image Courtesy: Nicholas Reuss
We asked students how Disney+ could improve their service. In addition to more content, the overwhelming response from students was to add their favorite aspects of other services such as the "Are you still watching?" feature, which is the pop-up message that comes up after a few episodes of inactivity. Also, better recommendation algorithms, which give you ideas for what to watch next based on what you've already seen. Also, they recommend improved search functionality to make it easier to find shows of interest. All of these features are available on competing services like Netflix and Hulu. The overall usability of the
service has regularly been changing since its release. According to students, the service has gotten better over time. To be more competitive with other streaming services, students recommended that: • • • •
All Disney content available ABC and ESPN content added More Disney exclusive content Remakes or spinoffs of shows like The Suite Life of ZacK and Cody, Indiana Jones, and Marvel shows • Shows exclusively made at Disney for Disney+ such as sneak peeks behind the inner workings of Disney or a Disney trivia show • “Unlocking” shows that show up on the service but aren’t available until a certain date • Releasing movies after they’ve been in theaters for a month Conclusion While students do enjoy Disney+ and its content, they realize the service is still relatively new. They like the nostalgia behind the service and enjoy viewing the content they grew up with but found that the service was lacking in many other areas. They want content from all of Disney's subsidiaries, including ABC and movies and shows that are currently unavailable on the service. In terms of usability, students wish to have better recommendations, a more convenient search tool, and features like "are you still watching?". Overall what they want is content unique to Disney. Whether that be remakes of favorite shows, spinoffs from classic Disney content, or brand new exclusives, originals are a big draw for students no matter what platform people are streaming. Maybe Baby Yoda can help make that happen!
Jack Rachek/The Avion Newspaper
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C2 Roar Before the Rolex 24
Photographs by Connor Adair/The Avion Newspaper
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2020 Rolex 24 at Daytona C3
Records Broken at 2020 Rolex 24 Wayne Taylor Racing Picks up Third Win in Four Years
Vipul Telang Editor-in-Chief The 2020 International Motor Sports Association (IMSA) racing series kicked off a new season at Daytona International Speedway this past weekend with the 58th running of the Rolex 24 at Daytona. The race, which was held from Jan. 25 to Jan. 26, lasted 24 hours and is the longest endurance race in all of Florida. Unlike other races, the winning team must travel the farthest distance in the time allocated rather than complete a set number of laps. Four classes competed this year: Daytona Prototype International (DPi), Le Mans Prototype 2 (LMP2), GT Daytona (GTD), and GT Le Mans (GTLM). The prestige of the race attracts drivers from many different disciplines of motorsports. Even within the same team, it’s not uncommon for the drivers to range from openwheel experience all the way to rally cars. This year, NASCAR driver and defending MENCS champion, Kyle Busch, joined the ranks of drivers driving their first Rolex 24 at Daytona. Other notable drivers from INDYCAR, Formula One, and NASCAR include Juan Pablo Montoya, Simon Pagenaud, Ryan Hunter-Reay, Sebastien Bourdais, Kamui Kobayashi, and Alexander Rossi. The allure of winning the Rolex 24 at Daytona is exceptionally high, as many consider the race to be one of the “big three” races in endurance racing that make up the triple crown. The 12 hours of Sebring in Florida and the 24 Hours of Le Mans in France are the other two crown jewels on the calendar. Only twelve drivers have ever completed the endurance triple crown, with Timo Bernhard most recently joining the list in 2017. Regardless, winning the 24 Hours of Daytona is an incredible feat. The winners of all classes receive a steel Rolex Daytona watch as part of the title sponsor and naming rights agreement. While last year’s race was cut short by heavy downpours of rain, this year’s weather was very cooperative, offering clear skies and very little wind. Despite temperatures dipping just under 50 degrees, the weather was pleasant and not nearly as cold as previous years. The better weather meant that the drivers could stay out of trouble. This lead to a record-stint of nearly seven hours without a full-course caution, which was the longest green flag stint ever in the history of the event. The race had so few cautions that the race distance record was smashed by the time the checkered flag flew at 1:40 p.m. on Sunday. The #10 Wayne Taylor Racing Konica Minolta Cadillac DPi-V.R completed 833 laps, breaking the previous record in 2018 by the #5 Action Express Racing Cadillac DPi-V.R with only 808 laps. Unlike the Daytona 500, which is only run on the tri-oval course, the Rolex 24 at Daytona is run using the
inner road course as well as the banking. The track layout also includes a chicane at the end of the backstretch, forcing drivers to slow down before going through NASCAR turns three and four towards the start/finish line. This chicane has caught drivers out before, and this year was no exception. Early in the afternoon, the #55 Mazda DPi and the #7 Acura DPi made contact while braking into the chicane, sending the Acura hard into the inside tire barrier. The subsequent repairs to the Acura to replace the rear of the car caused the team to drop to the bottom of the DPi class standings. There were a total of six full-course yellow flags that necessitated the need for a safety car and subsequent restart. The new decade brought both exciting and bittersweet news to the racing community during the winter offseason. Chevrolet announced the successor to their immensely successful C7.R Corvette, which won the 2015 and 2016 Rolex 24 at Daytona and then went on to win the endurance triple crown in 2015. Unlike the C7.R, the C8.R features a complete redesign, moving the engine from the front to the middle of the car. The C8.R also shares a lot more technology with the production model, as the C8 and C8.R were developed in tandem to allow parts to be interchangeable for both cars. The engine is now a 5.5 liter naturally-aspirated V8 that produces 500hp and 480 ft.-lb. of torque, increased from the C7.R that only produced 491 hp. While Chevrolet celebrated the release of the C8.R, it was somber news for Chip Ganassi Racing, after they announced that the 2019 Petit Le Mans at Road Atlanta in October would be their last race in the series for the near future. Chip Ganassi Racing ran the #66 and #67 Ford GT from 2016-2019, winning the Rolex 24 at Daytona in 2017 and 2018. 2020 is the first year since 2004 that Chip Ganassi Racing will not have a team in the Rolex 24. As it stands, the team is continuing to work towards a 2022 re-entry into the series when the series’ regulations will change for the Daytona Prototype 2.0 cars. Only time will tell to see if fans will see the return of the team, which is still seeking manufacturer support for the IMSA series. Regardless, the upcoming car updates will be sure to cause a stir at the 2022 Roar before the Rolex 24, as well as the Rolex 24 at Daytona.
Daytona Prototype International (DPi) Winner
Laps Completed: 833 Best Lap Time: 1:34.652
Pit Stops: 41
Fastest Driver: Renger van der Zande
Le Mans Prototype 2 (LMP2) Winner
Laps Completed: 811 Best Lap Time: 1:36.791
Pit Stops: 38 Fastest Driver: Ben Hanley
GT Le Mans (GTLM) Winner
Laps Completed: 786 Best Lap Time: 1:42.168
Pit Stops: 27 Fastest Driver: Jesse Krohn
GT Daytona (GTLM) Winner
Upcoming Events at DIS 2/8/20 - Lucas Oil 200 Driven By General Tire 2/9/20 - Busch Clash at Daytona 2/9/20 - Daytona 500 Qualifying 2/13/20 - Bluegreen Vacations Duel at Daytona 2/16/20 - Daytona 500
Laps Completed: 765 Best Lap Time: 1:45.367
Pit Stops: 29
Fastest Driver: Andrea Caldarelli
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C4 2020 Rolex 24 at Daytona
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Vipul Telang/The Avion Newspaper
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Joshua Rosado/The Avion Newspaper
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2020 Rolex 24 at Daytona C5
Vipul Telang/The Avion Newspaper
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