DEFENDING THE FIRST AMENDMENT SINCE 1911 TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 2018

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Volume 107, Issue 18

SEE INSIDE FOR GRADUATE SCHOOL ISSUE PROTEST

FORUM

THE MARCH ON CLEGG

Students speak out at forum By Evelyn Garcia & Geoff Sloan News Reporters

university." Alissa Guerrero, international relations senior, composed the articles of impeachment against Clegg, citing his actions as a misrepresentation of the student body.

On Feb. 5, at approximately 5:45 p.m., the march organized by the PanAfrican Action Committee to impeach student body President Connor Clegg, departed from the Fighting Stallions on the Quad making their way to the Student Government public forum at the LBJ Student Center Teaching Theater scheduled to start at 6 p.m. Students marched to LBJ chanting "hey hey, ho ho, Connor Clegg has got to go," as they held signs with slogans that read "Racism is NOT something that can be APOLOGIZED away." It took about 15 minutes for the students to get to the theater. Students filled the theater, leaving space only in the first two rows for student senators. Students chanted “the people, united, will never be divided” and “step down” until Jackie Merritt, vice president of Student Government, banged her gavel to officially start the Student Government public forum. Merritt explained the forum's agenda to the crowd; students had two minutes to voice comments followed by responses from senators, if senators wished to give a response. Immediately after Merritt concluded the introduction of the forum, students lined behind the podium. As students expressed their discontent with Clegg, a handful of senators gave their responses to student’s comments. The line behind the podium gained momentum and before every student could use their two minutes, the public forum came to an end. Students continued to take turns speaking into the Student Government meeting that followed. Clegg, senators and presidential candidates had the opportunity to grant interviews.

SEE PROTEST PAGE 2

SEE FORUM PAGE 2

Students gather around the Figthing Stallions for the impeachment of Student Government President, Connor Clegg, Feb. 5. PHOTO BY TYLER JACKSON

By Sawyer Click News Reporter Students marched to the LBJ teaching theater calling for the impeachment of student body president following racist and sexist posts found on his Instagram. On Feb. 5 at 4:40 p.m., students and alumni gathered on the Quad to protest for the impeachment of student body President Connor Clegg. The protest lasted until 6 p.m. when protesters moved to the LBJ Student Center. Before delivering a petition of more than 1,900 signatures and a chamber of criticisms to the Student and Senate Open Forum, over 300 students joined the "March to Demand Action Against Racism At TXST" and posted at the Fighting Stallions statue to create a united front against the lack of consequences for Clegg's posts. With a large white sheet reading: "No racism / No fascism / All power to the people." Organizers collected the attention of protesters and counterprotesters to voice concerns. Tafari Robertson, former Star columnist, former president of the Pan-African Action Committee, and public relations senior, spearheaded the protest.

INSIDE

Students at the Quad stand in front of the Fighting Stallions during Feb. 5 protest. PHOTO BY SAYWER CLICK

"It needs to be a campus-wide revolution," Robertson said. "It's not just about one person; it's about changing the way our university functions. We need to take concrete action to let students know that hate will not be tolerated on campus and that students of color are safe and a functionally important part of this

PROGRAM

Graduate college aims to add a dozen programs By Ernesto Malave News Reporter

Tips for graduate school applications SEE APPLICATION PAGE 6

Is graduate school still worth it? SEE MAIN POINT PAGE 7

The Graduate College is in the process of adding several new majors of study in an effort to increase opportunity for students to and to raise Texas State to a Tier 1 institution. Among the programs being explored are four doctoral programs in communications, health and rehab sciences, clinical-experimental neuropsychology and forensic anthropology. Additionally, specialized programs in nursing and mental health, health administration and marketing are also among the 12 graduate programs being looked into. Texas State is considered a Tier 2 research institution. The Tier labels differ from state to state, however. According to the Dallas Morning News, there are 115 prestigious universities on a list by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education. Though the lists slightly differ, they all rank partly on the amount of research being done at that university. The more

Multiple doctoral programs are being looked into for graduate school expansion. PHOTO BY JOSH MENDS

programs being added at a university, particularly doctoral programs, means more research projects, funding and prestige. University of Texas at Austin, Rice University and Texas A&M have long been considered Tier 1. However, in recent years more universities have been getting closer to their Tier 1 goals as well, including the University of

Texas at Dallas, Texas Tech University, the University of Texas at Arlington and the University of North Texas. Andrea Golato, dean of the Graduate College, described the process of adding new degrees.

SEE PROGRAM PAGE 2

The University Star

2 | Tuesday, February 6, 2018

NEWS Trinity Building 203 Pleasant St. San Marcos, TX 78666 (512) 245 - 3487

Editors Editor-in-Chief: Denise Cervantes, stareditor@txstate.edu Managing Editor: Shayan Faradineh, starmanagagingeditor@txstate.edu News Editor: Katie Burrell, starnews@txstate.edu Lifestyle Editor: LeeAnn Cardwell, starlifestyle@txstate.edu Opinions Editor: Carrington Tatum, staropinion@txstate.edu Sports Editor: Brooke Phillips, starsports@txstate.edu Copy Desk Chief: Claire Abshier, starcopychief@txstate.edu Design Editor: Vivian Medina, stardesign@txstate.edu Multimedia Editor: Tyler Jackson, starmultimedia@txstate.edu Engagement Editor: John Lee, starsocial@txstate.edu

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About Us History: The University Star is the student newspaper of Texas State University and is published every Tuesday of the spring and fall and once a month in the summer semesters. It is distributed on campus and throughout San Marcos at 8 a.m. on publication days with a distribution of 6,000. Printing and distribution is by the New Braunfels Herald-Zeitung. Copyright: Copyright Tuesday, February 6, 2018. All copy, photographs and graphics appearing in The University Star are the exclusive property of The University Star and may not be reproduced without the expressed written consent of the editor-in-chief. Deadlines: Letters to the Editor or any contributed articles are due on Monday the week prior to publication. Corrections: Any errors that are in the pages of The University Star and are brought to our attention will be corrected as soon as possible. Visit The Star at universitystar.com

Katie Burrell News Editor @KatieNicole96

UniversityStar.com @universitystar

CLEGG

Student Government president faces impeachment, backlash from student body By Katie Burrell News Editor Since outrage over old photos posted by Student Government President Connor Clegg surfaced late last week, impeachment efforts are underway and students have voiced their opinions on some of Clegg's more recent posts. On Feb. 1, the Star broke the news that three of Clegg's Instagram posts from 2014 were under scrutiny after at least 10 complaints were made to the Vice President of Student Affairs' office and screenshots of the posts were shared via social media including Facebook and Twitter. Following complaints about the posts, students expressed an issue with some of Clegg's posts from last year that were made while he was in office. Clegg allegedly posted an image of himself at a party with someone dressed as late President Abraham Lincoln. The image was captioned, "Honestly no one knew it was a costume party until the 16th president came in and emancipated all of us." Some students commented they were uncomfortable with Clegg making light of emancipation on a screenshot of the original post which appeared on Facebook. On Feb. 2 Alissa Guerrero, international studies senior, confirmed

Connor Clegg, Student body President, listens to the comments from students at a public forum Feb. 5. PHOTO BY MARINA BUSTILLO-MENDOZA

her efforts to impeach Clegg for allegedly violating the Student Government Constitution. Guerrero said Clegg's threats to defund the Star during the fall semester violated conduct rules as they were made via the organization's Twitter account. According to the Student Government Constitution, a president or vice president can be impeached if he/she violated the university's code of conduct, the organization's code of conduct or constitution and is found guilty during a joint session of the house and senate.

Guerrero said she received nearly all signatures needed to file for impeachment and bring Clegg to a joint session and will file the paperwork on Feb. 7. According to the Student Government Constitution, the review process for impeachment must be completed within five business days. According to Guerrero, Clegg allegedly broke 11 rules: eight from Article VII Section 1 (a) and three from Article VII (b). More information detailing the exact claims will be available after the complete request is presented if it receives the remaining three signatures.

action. We all need action." Rudy Martinez, former Star columnist and philosophy senior, called for the revision of the double standards that preside in the administrations on campus. "I'm embarrassed because there is a clear and dangerous double standard here at Texas State University," Martinez said. "If minority students, such as myself and others, aim to provide minority communities a voice that is to be critical of existing power structures, we get labeled as racist and abhorrent." Emmy Orioha, political science junior and president of PAAC, challenged administrators to confront anti-diversity actions on campus. "We love this school so we challenge this school," Orioaha said. "When we have a student body president who sits there as the head of the Senate and affirms a bill that protects First Amendment rights but then calls to defund the university newspaper, that's not right." Russell Boyd II, political action chair

of the Texas State NAACP and public administration senior, is unsurprised by Clegg's actions and President Trauth's response calls for both to be held accountable. "Trauth has never been an advocate for students," Boyd said. "When you have your own student body president condoning this kind of racist behavior and you hope that his apology matches, that is completely reprehensible. She is just as guilty as he is. They both should be held accountable." Counterprotesters approached by the Star refused to go on the record. However, these counterprotesters participated in debates, refuting the necessity of the march and of the resignation of Clegg, saying that racism is not specific to minorities. The march ended at the LBJ teaching theater, where Student Government hosted a public forum that allowed senators and students to discuss issues on campus.

FROM FRONT PROTEST "This is what we call abuse of power. He has used his student-elected position to promote his own personal agenda above that of the students at Texas State University," Guerrero said. "This is what we call abuse or power. We elected you to this position and we can take you out of it." Of the multicultural organizations that were involved, PAAC, Texas State NAACP Collegiate Chapter 6875-B and Student Community of Progressive Empowerment had representatives speak on behalf of minorities in the campus community. Yunuen Alvarado, programs coordinator of the Student Community of Progressive Empowerment and journalism junior, is a proudly undocumented student and beneficiary of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program. "I have never felt like I belong at this university," Alvarado. "We should not have to put up with a racist student body president who does not care about us. I don't need anybody's pity. I need

FROM FRONT FORUM "I'm going to do what I do every night and I'm going to go home and pray," Clegg said. "I came here tonight not to talk, but to listen. At the end of the day, I realize that I made a mistake four years ago and we've got to see what comes of it. If there's any decision made I'm sure the whole campus will know." Elijah Miller, presidential candidate and criminal justice junior, said he doesn't feel at home at Texas State. "I’m a senator, I do my thing," Miller said. "I put on a suit. It doesn’t matter how you play the game." Preston Nieves, presidential candidate and political science sophomore commented on the responsibilities of a student body president. “When somebody is elected to represent a broader audience there's a higher standard to be held," Nieves said. "Both remarks by Rudy (Rudy Martinez, former star columnist and philosophy senior) and (Clegg) were controversial. Both remarks caused a lot of people to get upset. (Martinez) was not elected to represent the people.” In addition to the diverse group of students who attended the public forum, there were also student organizations in attendance like Latinas

Students give their comments in front of a full house during a public forum Feb. 5. PHOTO BY MARINA BUSTILLO-MENDOZA

Unidas, PAAC, National Association for the Advancement of Colored People Unit 6875-B, Texas Freedom Network Texas Rising for LGBTQIA Equality and Student Community of Progressive Empowerment. Valeria Escalante, electronic media junior and president of Latinas Unidas, said she likes the opportunity students were given to voice their opinions. "This institution, President Trauth

and the student body president do not represent what Texas State is about," Escalante said. "They spout that this is a Hispanic- Serving Institution, but when we try to pass that bill to get a lawyer here to students who fear for their protection in this country they did nothing. What I just experienced right now gave me hope that Texas State will change.”

Though two to three new programs are looked at each year, the process can take a long period of time. The university explores adding a program for up to six years. Of the 12 proposed programs, the forensic anthropology and nursing and mental health practitioner doctoral programs are the closest to being approved. According to the university’s strategic plan, the university hopes to increase the number of graduate students by 3 percent annually using its long-term approval plan for new degrees. Through this long-term approval plan, which can be up to 6 years, undergraduate students may have

enough time to think about if they would like to attend graduate school at Texas state and in what field. However, it does not help current graduate students who want new programs sooner. Additionally, the average age of a graduate student at Texas State is 30, so it Is more difficult for them to wait years for new programs to be created. Many have families and full-time jobs. Travis Fimmel, a recent graduate in political science spoke about a few current issues he saw during his studies. “The political science department needs more comparative politics classes. It's heavily disproportionate to political theory right now” Fimmel said.

FROM FRONT PROGRAM “We need to get approval from the state because the university is partially funded by taxpayer money, Golato said. "The state has a limited budget for various things like graduate education. They want to make sure we meet certain criteria if they are going to spend money on it. They are also looking at degrees other institutions offer, so that there is not much overlap, and if there is a need for a program.“ According to Golato, the university also takes workforce need into consideration when creating graduate degree programs. University faculty researches the needs of students and job availability.

The University Star

NEWS

Tuesday, February 6, 2018 | 3 Katie Burrell News Editor @KatieNicole96

UniversityStar.com @universitystar

STUDENT GOVERNMENT

MEET THE CANDIDATES Elijah Miller & Emari Shelvin By Geoff Sloan News Reporter

Running mates, Emari Shelvin and Elijah Miller, stand for a photo. PHOTO COURTESY OF MILLER-SHELVIN WEBSITE

Elijah Miller, criminal justice junior, is running for student body president with Emari Shelvin, nursing and Spanish junior as his vice presidential candidate. Miller is a second-year senator and is the vice president of the Texas College Democrats and an active member of Black Student Association. Shelvin's experience includes serving as a Student Government senator, working as a peer mentor and remaining an active member of Filipino Student Association and Black Student Alliance. This is the second campaign that Shelvin has ran on, following the loss of the Russell Boyd-Emari Shelvin campaign for president and vice president last year. Shelvin said she is back in the running because she feels obligated to serve her university and advocate for student

interests "I am running because I am ready and willing to be an advocate for all students on-campus,” Shelvin said. “I'd like to bring visibility to all of the student body and take that to the administrative level." The Miller-Shelvin campaign has a 12-point platform that focuses on a wide variety of issues consisting of some policies that were not passed through the student senate last semester. There are a few points that Miller believes are important to highlight. Specific issues that Miller and Shelvin plan to address include on campus transportation, funding for the recycling program Bobcat Blend, creating 24-hour study areas, outreach toward underrepresented communities, reviewing the Title IX process and addressing the white supremacist flyers that have been posted on campus over the past two years.

Brooklyn Boering & Ruben Becerra By Monique Flores News Reporter Brooklyn Boreing, public relations junior, and Ruben Becerra, finance senior, launched their student government presidential campaign Jan, 23. Boreing said she hopes to serve alongside Becerra. While both candidates currently serve as senatorsat-large, Becerra also serves as the director of governmental affairs, the student liaison to the city of San Marcos council meetings and Texas Student Government Coalition. Alongside Boreing’s leadership roles in Student Government, she also held three different leadership positions in her sorority, Delta Gamma, as well as co-founding the student-led organization Not On My Campus,

which she currently leads as president. The Boreing-Becerra platform focuses on an initiative they call “Building Better Bobcats.” Their plans involve cost relief, improving campus safety and building a more solidified voice for Bobcats. According to Boreing, they want to ensure that all students can openly express their concerns, opinions and ideas about how Texas State can improve. “I have seen this year that Student Government, and just in general the campus, has been very divided,” Boreing said. “There’s been a lot of controversy at Texas State. Our name’s been in the news way too much, and now more than ever we need a president that is going to unite everyone, that’s here for everyone… It’s not about political parties.”

Running mates, Brooklyn Boering and Ruben Becerra, stand in the LBJ Student Center Feb. 5 during a Student Government meeting. PHOTO BY JAKOB RODRIGUEZ

Preston Nieves & Christian Sears By Summer Bohn News Reporter

Running mates, Preston Nieves and Christian Sears, stand in the LBJ Student Center Feb. 5 during a Student Government meeting. PHOTO BY JAKOB RODRIGUEZ

Preston Nieves, political science sophomore, and running mate Christian Sears, political science junior, hope to win this year's Student Government election with their alternative platform and ideas. The most efficient candidate should be "willing to talk to people and (be) open to thoughts, even if they don't necessarily have the same input/views,” Nieves said. Sears believes his background in politics qualifies him for the position. As a student senator, he votes on legislation weekly and has created some of his own. Nieves said his main goal is efficiency. The duo aspires to do everything in a timely manner while still giving students

the resources they need to succeed. They also plan to get rid of resources that are not being utilized. Their biggest ambition: bringing more schools, like a law school to Texas State. "I want to start the conversation, hopefully, start the paperwork, because it's not going to happen in one or two years. It will take time. We could be the administration that started that legacy, " Nieves said. Nieves wants to display his and his running mate's vision and try to get the attention of people who don't normally keep up with student government. "I really wanted to give people access to a physical ticket that had a unique platform," Nieves said. "Ours consists of conservative characteristics, yet socially progressive; and has a huge emphasis on individual liberty."

4 | Tuesday, February 6, 2018

LIFESTYLE

The University Star LeeAnn Cardwell Lifestyle Editor @leeanncardwell

UniversityStar.com @universitystar

FILM

Students, alumni create horror film By LeeAnn Cardwell Lifestyle Editor Where a night so foggy not even the moon’s light shines through is coupled with an eerie silence from being three miles away from the nearest road, the perfect stage for a horror film is set. Along the Creek Road is a short film inspired by true events, about the disappearance of three children in the city of Oaksville and an investigative journalist’s attempts to bring peace to the tragic mystery 15 years later. As she seeks to uncover the story, an interviewee shares that he has a connection to the missing children’s whereabouts and his terrifying secrets begin to unravel. Serg Garcia, writer, co-producer and alumnus, spent two years writing to create the perfect story that shows the horrific and creepy sides of humanity. Garcia said he was inspired by multiple events he came across during his research, including cases of child disappearances in the 1940s and cult related events from the Charles Manson cases. “I tried to make it show that these things can happen,” Garcia said. “That’s what gets me horrified, the true aspect of horror films. That this type of horror does exist in the world.” Learda Shkurti, executive producer and alumna, was a teaching assistant in one of Garcia’s courses while they were both students. Shkurti said she has always appreciated Garcia’s work and joined this project because she truly believes in his creative vision. “I don’t love horror movies, but I like things that can make me feel something

and things that make me feel like ‘oh god, I didn’t know that I could feel that’,” Shkurti said. “So something like a creepy movie like this I think can resonate with anyone even if they don’t really like horror movies.” The film crew consisted of a compilation of Texas State students and alumni who simply share a passion for filmmaking. Despite their young age and the fact that for many it was their first time working on a set, the filmmakers and actors worked together to develop a professional atmosphere. Xavier Alvarado, actor and public relations senior, plays the main character, Cherokee, in the film. He said his favorite part of working on the film was getting to know the other people and learning how to balance creativity and professionalism alongside them. “I even stayed late one night just to talk with another set member and we had a great conversation about creativity, just brainstorming, getting out of creative blocks,” Alvarado said. “She made a great point to me that if you’re the smartest person in the room, you’re in the wrong room. You get around a set and you’re surrounded by so many people you can get a little intimidated, but you learn from that and you learn from the people around you.” The film is currently in the postproduction process, which consists of editing and submitting the film to multiple festivals. Until the film has been judged at film festivals, it will only be viewable by those who make a donation. The film crew of Along the Creek Road is hosting its wrap party and fundraiser at AquaBrew on Feb. 11.

The crew and actors of "Along the Creek Road" shot their short film at the Freeman Center in San Marcos. PHOTOS BY VICTOR RODRIGUEZ

PROGRAM

CAFE provides financial awareness to Bobcats By Ashley Brown Special to the Star There is finally a way for college students to learn how to "adult" in matters of financial literacy. Keeping up with bills, paying off student loans and attempting to save money every month can be a lot to manage without practice. One program at Texas State has come together to teach students how to be financially responsible. The Career and Financial Education program began about a year and a half ago. Since then, it has been ranked in the top 50 college financial literacy programs of 2018, landing its spot at number 22. The program was judged and ranked off of the extensive services available on CAFE's website. However, CAFE does much more than just provide friendly links for students to get advice from. Terrance McClain, student development specialist, said CAFE is responsible for a multitude of things such as coaching, presentations and workshops. "We look at different aspects that are concerned with budgeting, student loan and credit," McClain said. "So if a student wants to have like a financial session to kind of get more information

about like how to look at credit, budgeting or other complicated things, we do have a specific person where you can target it and work with them to kind of go through those things, kind of like a one-on-one appointment." Each student has different financial needs, so CAFE provides a variety of topics to cover and numerous coaches to work with.

Recipients of Career Readiness Certificate of Completion. PHOTO COURTESY OF CAFE WEBSITE

HUMANS OF SAN MARCOS "I actually collect rocks and minerals, that’s what I do. I’ve been collecting for six years and I actually just started getting into cutting and polishing my own rocks. So I am kind of starting a business from that and I just started different pendants and shapes that I am cutting out. My dad was a geologist; he always had rocks around the house and big amethyst cathedrals. I remember I was always in awe over all of the rocks and crystals that he had. The fact that they are created naturally through the

Presentations and workshops hosted by the program, many including guest speakers, are open to the public and held throughout each semester. "One of our biggest things is the financial expo," McClain said. "Basically we have vendors from around the community and inside the university that provide some type of financial assistance or education."

earth processes with these crazy and amazing colors and different crystal structures is so cool. Not a lot of people know how crazy beautiful rocks and minerals can be, not just crystals and the healing aspect of it, but there is actual geo-science behind it that is crazy. The fact that you can chip through a big boulder and then come to an empty space and in that space there are just tons of crystals is amazing." – Natalie Park

Natalie Park has worked at Pie Society for two years, but is working on starting a business selling rocks and minerals. PHOTO BY LEEANN CARDWELL

CAFE is a Title V grant program, which essentially means the program is on a trial run and is funded by the government and not the university. If CAFE continues to thrive, the university will begin to receive a substantial amount of money to keep it running. At this point, the program would be considered institutionalized. Loraine Ribon-Gutierrez, engineering senior, said she has benefited from CAFE and picked up some helpful tips from the program "I always used to think how helpful it would be if there was a class in high school offered on how to save money, balance a checkbook, save money, that sort of thing," Ribon-Gutierrez said. "To know that there actually is a program to teach you those things is really comforting because let's be real: none of us know how to (be an) adult when we get here." Ribon-Gutierrez said she now feels more confident going out into the world when she graduates than she did before using CAFE's services. Oftentimes, students leave college ready to take on the world but are caught off-guard by financial responsibilities. CAFE seeks to make sure all Bobcats have the opportunity to know practical tips to practice financial stability before graudating.

The University Star

LIFESTYLE

Tuesday, February 6, 2018 | 5 LeeAnn Cardwell Lifestyle Editor @leeanncardwell

UniversityStar.com @universitystar

PAAC

FITNESS

Recognizing Black Excellence

Trainers give women's center a helping hand

By Constunce Brantley Lifestyle Reporter The Pan African Action Committee has been an advocate for change at Texas State since 2016 and has big plans for the upcoming year. Founder Tafari Roberston created PAAC alongside eight initial members to serve as a student organization that uplifts the community and stands for equality of all individuals. PAAC’s mission is to react to any events, legislation and actions in such a way that positively impacts students. It has many long-term and short-term goals that aim to better not only the Bobcat community, but the San Marcos community as well. Chiemezuo Orioha, president of PAAC and political science junior, said the organization has already detailed this semester's goals. “The main focus for the semester is to engage students and showcase black culture and excellence during Black Excellence Week, which occurs from March 5-10,” Orioha said. Nicholas Prejean, vice president of PAAC and mass communications senior, said he is very proud of all the hard work PAAC has done so far this year. “There are a million other things I could mention like our monthly wake up calls, our work with the Calaboose black history museum in San Marcos and black fest," Prejean said. "It’s just an exciting time to be in PAAC right now.” Though PAAC has specific goals for each semester, the organization continually seeks to promote its longterm goals. These include advocating for more black study courses to be offered and urging more black professors to be hired. Additionally, PAAC supports other efforts on campus such as advocating for the Student Community of Progressive Empowerment's work to bring an immigration attorney to campus, an on-campus food pantry, to shine light on the community center being built in San Marcos and to bring women's toiletries to bathrooms across campus. One of PAAC's past goals has already been achieved when the multicultural lounge and black students' resource library, located in Lampasas 500, opened its doors September 2017.

“

“The main focus for the semester is to engage students and showcase black culture and excellence during Black Excellence Week, which occurs from March 5-10.” -Chiemezuo Orioha The student committee is dedicated to encouraging social and political action among students. To achieve these missions, the committee votes on which efforts they would like to pursue on campus. Not only does the student organization work on their goals, but members also make a point to attend events hosted by faculty such as the roundtable discussions hosted by President Trauth, to ensure that staff and faculty are aware of their concerns on campus. In efforts to implement change, PAAC works closely with Student Government senators to support legislation that the organization believes positively impacts students. Darrell Antwine, marketing director of PAAC and political science sophomore, said despite being a new member, he is excited to help PAAC formulate new policies to make the university more inclusive. “I got involved because I felt that more change should happen on campus,” Antwine said. PAAC hosts meetings every Wednesday 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. in the multicultural lounge and is open to anyone interested in attending.

By Sonia Garcia Lifestyle Reporter A new fitness complex is coming to town, but the first step before its grand opening is to help the San Marcos community. The Hays-Caldwell Women’s Center will benefit from the generous donations coming from Heat Bootcamp's membership pre-sales. Cody Butler, founder and coowner of Heat Bootcamp, and Cody Richardson, co-owner, are bringing the spirit of the Austin-originated facility to San Marcos. Upon the announcement of a second location, a poll was posted on Heat Bootcamp's website and social media handles stating that 10 percent of the proceeds made on their pre-sale memberships for the new San Marcos location would be donated to the nonprofit organization that received the most votes, which was Hays-Caldwell Women's Center. Close runner-ups included Hope and Love for Kids and School Fuel. Heat Bootcamp notified these organizations that the fitness complex plans on giving back to them in their future events. “As a company it’s always our mission to give back to the community in which we are in," Butler said, "Throughout the years we have raised tens and thousands of dollars for various organizations and charities.” Hays-Caldwell Women’s Center is a non-profit organization serving victims of family violence, dating violence, sexual assault and child abuse since 1978. Last year Hays-Caldwell Women's Center served 1,877 victims. Its most popular program is the non-residential program, where they provide legal or personal advocacy and counseling to witnesses and victims of abuse. While the center receives federal and

Heat Bootcamp will open its San Marcos location in late February. From now until then, 10 percent of the proceeds will go to the Hays-Caldwell Women's Center. PHOTO BY TYLER JACKSON

state funding, every dollar donated is much needed and appreciated, according to Melissa Rodriguez, director of operations at Hays-Caldwell Women’s Center. “It’s of the utmost importance to have local support," Rodriguez said. "10 percent from businesses or other fundraising events goes a long way. It says 'we are invested in helping victims in the community'." Over a decade ago, Butler founded Heat Bootcamp in Austin where he grew the company with co-owner Richardson. It has been two years in the making for them to open this new location. For about five years, Richardson has been a trainer at Heat Bootcamp after moving on from a career in disc golf. He is in touch with the Texas State disc golf team and hopes to expand their relationship. “Personally, I make donations to

organizations on my own, but as a public business hopefully I can reach out to more organizations,” Richardson said. When creating a team of trainers, Heat Bootcamp looks for individuals who are empathetic, understanding and naturally willing to help others. Butler and Richardson said they are excited to find a community they can easily reach out to and be part of in San Marcos. A variety of training times are offered everyday, so all will have an opportunity to make it out and break a sweat. Heat Bootcamp, located across Buzz Mill, is expected to open in late February. The fitness complex is selling $50 memberships for 30 days of unlimited sessions with 10 percent of the proceeds still being donated to the Hays-Caldwell Women’s Center. More information can be found at http:// www.heatbootcamp.com/smtx

REACH HIGHER

WITH A GRADUATE DEGREE FROM

UCCS LEARN MORE AT UCCS.EDU/GRADUATESCHOOL

6 | Tuesday, February 6, 2018

LIFESTYLE

The University Star LeeAnn Caldwell Lifestyle Editor @leeanncardwell

UniversityStar.com @universitystar

ADVICE

Faculty weighs in on going to grad school Joey Martin, Ph.D

Victoria Black

Professor of music, Director of Choral Activities and Associate Dean for the College of Fine Arts and Communication

University College, Director of Peer Mentoring

Vocal Pedagogy at Southwestern Oklahoma State University

Counseling and Guidance Masters Program at Texas State Univerisity

“For students who plan to attend graduate school, my advice is to align your efforts with your goals and absorb the most that you can. Find a way to distinguish yourself from all others from universities who are pursuing the same degree as yours.”

"There's lots of reasons why I think grad school is important. Furthering education in general is a great thing, master programs offer more specific training in professional development and resources that a bachelors degree might not offer. (My advice is) start early, do your research, look for funding opportunities within the school and outside, and network prior to being admitted."

Twister Marquis

Amanda North

University College, Director of the Common Experience

Professor in the English department

Creative Writing at Texas State University

MFA in poetry at Texas State University

"(When choosing a program) I was looking for a program where I could work with some of the worlds leading voices in writing. I knew a couple of graduates of Texas State, and they were adamant about this being a strong program. You need to ask all the questions; you don't know, what you don't know, so you need to ask."

“My advice ( about grad school) would be don’t look at it as some next step in a trade school adventure, but find the bigger purpose for it other than a degree."

APPLICATION

Tips for graduate school applications By Alyssa Weinstein Lifestyle Reporter Applying to graduate school consists of many steps such as deciding what to study, how to know which graduate program is the right choice and how to apply. Advisers from three of the most popular graduate programs at Texas State have a few tips for students who are considering furthering their education.

Engineering The engineering program began in fall 2015 and only admits students once per year during the fall semester. Out of about 70-90 applicants, only 30-50 percent of them will join the program. The number of applicants is expected to grow once the program gains more attention among students. Vishu Viswanathan, graduate adviser of the M.S. program in engineering, said there is a specific process that is critical to understand when applying for the program. “First, they will check against the requirements for GPA, GRE and TOEFL/IELTS (test scores)," Viswanathan said. "Second, they will determine if the technical background is adequate for M.S. (in) engineering from the applicant’s undergraduate transcripts. Third, they will gather other relevant information from their resume, statement of purpose and recommendation letter." When applying to graduate programs, Viswanathan said it is best practice to carefully review the program’s website and to make sure it is the right program for the individual. He also said it is helpful to contact the graduate advisers for assistance and guidance when working through the application process.

Health Education The health education program receives 15 to 20 applicants each year and accepts 75 to 80 percent of them. Applicants may only apply, however, if they are qualified, thus leaving many to chose not to apply. Applicants are required to submit a 500-word essay as their statement of purpose. David Wiley, professor and graduate adviser for the health education graduate program, said this is one of the most important factors of the application that is reviewed.

“Many people tell us they’re ‘interested in health’, but the applicants need to give us specifics about what they are looking for as a career," Wiley said. "It is during this process we can figure out that sometimes applicants are applying to the wrong program.” Wiley said the program does not require the GRE as the admissions committee has realized GPA and the 60 hours of undergraduate work are more important factors than the GRE. The program began to require letters of recommendation this year as they are now taken into consideration along with the required statement of purpose. “My advice to prospective Health Education applicants is to make sure you have a clear vision of what you want to do with a career and how obtaining a master’s degree from Texas State can help get you there," Wiley said. "Far too often, students attend graduate school because it is ‘next on the list’ without really thinking about why they even want to go to graduate school. Not having a clear vision and plan leads to early drop-out."

Mass Communication According to Dan Seed, graduate program assistant for the school of journalism and mass communication, 31 out of the 56 applicants for the mass communication program were admitted in 2017. “The review process is a rigorous process, as we are seeking the best and brightest to join our program," Seed said. "Our graduate committee reviews all aspects of an applicant’s academic and professional qualifications when considering their application.” In order to apply, applicants must complete the application on ApplyTexas, have completed at least 60 hours of undergraduate or graduate work, a GRE score must be submitted and other essential documents such as resumes and letters of recommendation must be submitted. In fall 2019, the program will no longer require GRE scores to be submitted, a practice becoming more common among graduate programs. “I advise students who are interested in applying for the mass communication graduate program to step back and ask yourself, ‘why am I applying?'," Seed said. "One of the biggest mistakes students make is applying to grad school as a fallback, when it should be a conscious choice. You’re getting into a course of study that requires a lot of your time; in some cases, more of your time than your undergraduate education."

Do you have a background in Math, Engineering, or Computer Science? You Could Have a Future in Financial Engineering at Illinois!

College of Engineering | College of Business msfe.illinois.edu

The University Star

Tuesday, February 6, 2018 | 7

OPINIONS

Carrington Tatum Opinions Editor @mogulcarrington

UniversityStar.com @universitystar

Is graduate school still worth it? Education is unique as it is the one thing that can not be taken from an individual. It is a personal investment that never ends and immediately benefits the recipient. When undergraduate students contemplate continuing their formal education at the graduate level, the decision does not, and should not, come lightly. Depending on the field of study, attempting to get a graduate degree ranges from ambitious to required. For students of the latter, their undergraduate career may be little more than a necessary stepping stone on the way to their final degree, where they will actively participate in research and network with their equally talented classmates.

But what about students who are not expected to earn a higher degree? Is graduate school worth it? At first, becoming more educated seems like a slam dunk. The alternative does not have any tangible benefits. But continuing one’s education is not just a button to be pressed or a wish to be granted, unfortunately. The road to graduate school is not without obstacles. For American students, the cost alone can render the decision moot. Educational resource company Peterson’s claims that graduate students can expect an annual tuition cost of $30,000 for public universities and $40,000 for private institutions. This does not include textbooks or the cost

of living. The cost can be offset by financial aid and scholarships, which are a necessity for most graduate students. The less concrete cost of graduate school is the opportunity cost. Students not attending graduate school expect to enter the workforce after graduation and start their careers immediately, seemingly getting a headstart compared to their peers remaining in school. To continue one’s education in graduate school postpones this anticipated salaried job while still having to pay for school. The eventual rewards of this path are still evident, but for some young people, paying rent and staying fed are issues confronting them in the here and now, regardless of promises

of something better down the road. However, the cost is not without non-monetary rewards as well. The benefits of graduate school are not limited to a piece of paper or extra money. It is a phase of one’s life marked by personal enrichment, fostered in an environment unlike any other. In theory, cost and time should not be the only deterrents keeping hopeful students from research and learning. Any person interested in graduate school should have the opportunity. If students are interested in furthering their education, they should still consider graduate school as a viable option for the future they desire.

The Main Point is the opinion of the newspaper’s editorial board. Columns are the opinions of the writer and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the full staff, Texas State University Student Media, the School of Journalism and Mass Communication or Texas State University.

EDUCATION

CONGRESS

Congressional term limits are necessary By Katelyn Moriarty Opinions Columnist

ILLUSTRATION BY KENNEDY SWIFT

Education needs two major reforms By Hunter Mabee Opinions Columnist The unemployment rate for Liberal Arts bachelor’s degrees is 9.4 percent, according to Georgetown University Getting a STEM degree is the only safe route seeing that unemployment for STEM degrees is only 2.5 percent, according to the Department of Commerce. Additionally, for individuals who have only a high school diploma, the unemployment rate is 5.1 percent according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The education system is not just failing the youth on an employment front, but also in principles. The Communism Memorial Foundation found that 34 percent of millennials look favorably on socialism. The foundation claims “millennials are increasingly turning away from capitalism and towards socialism and even communism as a viable alternative.” The growing acceptance of socialism and communism signals a dire need for education reform based on two necessities: skilled labor and American exceptionalism. With the number of routes available after primary education, it is absurd that the education system is so vehemently dedicated to college. If the success of young Americans is truly the ultimate goal, then there should be a focus on training high school students in skilled labor. The president of the Utah Manufacturers Association Todd Bingham explained to the New York Times that, "a 3.1 percent unemployment rate is fabulous unless you're looking to hire people." Businesses have grown to create jobs, but the education system is not holding up the other side of a good economy by supplying the workers. If we outfit our schools with the equipment and staff needed to teach students trades, like plumbing, electrics, welding; America could see more than just lower unemployment, but a

growing and more diverse market. But for this to happen the education system must be willing to turn away from the narrow view that college is the only route to success. The second pillar of education reform must fix the crisis in principles taking place in young Americans. The education system needs to teach students about American exceptionalism, as explained by President Ronald Reagan. In Reagan's Evil Empire speech, he suggested that students be taught “a positive view of American history, one that takes pride in our country’s accomplishments and record.” If the education system told a positive view of American history, more young Americans would see the great deeds of the United States, like the Revolution, to World War II to charitable aid given around the world. In addition, students would have an opportunity to see that some of America's greatest enemies, like the Nazis and the Soviet Union were proponents of socialism and communism. The fate of the two regimes would also be case studies of the dangers of these ideologies. Of course, the crimes committed by America would also be a necessary part of historical education. On this issue we can refer again to President Reagan: “our nation, too, has a legacy of evil with which it must deal. The glory of this land has been its capacity for transcending the moral evils of our past.” Reagan understood that the good deeds of America would outweigh its evils and that American goodness would win over its people for generations. The realization of America's potential is stunted due to a flawed education system. The solutions are simple but hard to accept. However, we can no longer subject our citizens to uncertain futures based on misguided ideals. - Hunter Mabee is a philosophy senior

Congressmen consistently let their constituents down. Congressional approval ratings are at a low, and the first step to fixing it is implementing congressional term limits. Reducing the incredibly high incumbency rate would allow other people to be represented with equal chances in their districts during an election. There must be a provision put in place to hold these legislators responsible for their lack of actions. While term limits were briefly considered when creating the Constitution, James Madison suggested in Federalist Paper 53 that it takes time for people to understand the federal system once they occupy a congressional seat, therefore if new people are continuously coming in and replacing others, there will be a clear lack of experience within Congress. Madison also reassures the reader by saying that these people may be able to serve repeatedly, but the citizens' rights and freedoms are protected due to the limits of power that Congress has.

“ As these men and women continue further into their terms, it seems that most of them become corrupt."

Nowadays, the fear of inexperience is no longer a make-or-break concern. Political parties and modern training resources can easily give a new congressperson the practical skills needed to do a job. Representing the interests of his or her community is not a task that needs much explaining. After midterm elections in 2016, the rates of incumbency were dramatic. House representatives experienced a 97 percent incumbency rate, while senators had a rate of 93 percent. Though these numbers are actually higher than the overall average incumbency rate, these figures should still be considered

problematic to voters. Due to high incumbency, opportunities for new faces and ideas are rare. According to the U.S. Census, during the 2014 midterm elections, only 42 percent of eligible voters actually cast a ballot. People often abstain from voting due to a lack of name recognition or because midterm elections are perceived as less important than presidential elections. According to Pew Research Center, the United States actually has one of the lowest voter turnout rates in the world. Thus, an incumbent is naturally given the upper hand to defend their congressional seat for multiple years. New candidates also face difficulties with funding. As incumbents seek reelection, their franking privileges grant them a greater reach to acquire more funding and donations, giving them an extra boost compared to their fellow candidates. There is also a widening divide between people now strictly voting for people representing their parties in midterm elections, rather than someone that has the same beliefs as the voter. From the voters' perspective, it looks like it has come strictly down to Democrats versus Republicans, and whoever can control Congress with the most seats is the winner. This is a very unhealthy mindset, because not only does this prohibit the way congressional votes are conducted, but it creates an unnecessary gridlock within the government due to partisan opinions. A great number of congresspeople go into their seats boasting about how they will stick to their ideas and promises and will represent their constituents better than the people that held their spots in the past. As these men and women continue further into their terms, it seems that most of them become corrupt. These people become beholden to certain donors and PACs due to the financial aid they receive; thus only leading them to promise tax breaks and other incentives. Therefore, congresspeople have low approval ratings because they do not act on what their people actually want. This kind of career should not be seen as an opportunity to solely represent a political stance, but instead as an act of service to one's country. Creating term limits would make it easier to remove people who spend several terms in office and develop dark political ties that only benefit themselves. The positions these people hold should be held to a higher standard, and we as a population should elect people who deserve to sit in those seats and represent their district or state's beliefs. The congressional approval rating sits around 16 percent, and congressmen should be treated just like any other employee who don't do their jobs well. The public should wake up and push useless congresspeople out of office. - Katelyn is a political science sophomore

8 | Tuesday, February 6, 2018

OPINIONS

The University Star Carrington Tatum Opinions Editor @mogulcarrington

UniversityStar.com @universitystar

HISTORY

Black history: Thurgood Marshall and the First Amendment By Zach Ienatsch Assistant Opinions Editor Very few Supreme Court justices have championed the First Amendment as consistently as Thurgood Marshall, the Court’s first black justice. During his 14-year tenure on the Court, Justice Marshall sided with the freedom of speech and the press in several landmark cases which set the precedent for the modern interpretation of the First Amendment we are familiar with today. Born in Baltimore in 1908, Marshall had ambitions of studying law from a young age. After graduating from Lincoln University with a degree in American literature and philosophy, Marshall sought to continue his education in law school. Unable to attend the University of Maryland for law school because of the institution's segregation policy, he enrolled in Howard University School of Law. Marshall graduated top of his class in 1933. His time at Howard increased his interest in politics and activism, refining his passions for becoming a lawyer. Marshall was appointed to the Supreme Court in 1967 by Texas State alumnus Lyndon Baines Johnson, becoming the first black American to hold the position of associate justice. Marshall’s background as Chief Counsel for the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund and Solicitor General of the Johnson Administration (the first Black person to hold the position as well) made him a strong candidate for the office, which he was confirmed to by the Senate in a 69-11 vote. Pertaining to Marshall’s defense of the First Amendment, he is best known for Stanley v. Georgia and Brandenburg v. Ohio, the former referring to private possession of obscene ma-

terials and the latter concerning hate speech. In Stanley v. Georgia, Marshall famously wrote in his opinion, “If the First Amendment means anything, it means that a state has no business telling a man, sitting alone in his house, what books he may read or what films he may watch”. His involvement in Brandenburg v. Ohio is exceptionally interesting because he sided with the Klan’s right to hate speech, despite being an affected individual of said speech because of his race. Other significant cases Marshall sided on include Cohen v. California, where he sided with the majority opinion the government cannot restrict the use of the word “fuck” on the basis of the word alone, and Miller v. California, where he dissented against the Court’s opinion obscene language must have artistic value. Justice Marshall’s commitment to the First Amendment extended to students. He sided with the majority in Tinker v. Des Moines, permitting students the same degree of freedom of expression as legal adults. Later in his tenure, he dissented in both Bethel v. Fraser and Hazelwood v. Kuhlmeier when the Court ruled against the student rights to freedom of speech and the press. To Marshall, every American deserves unrestricted rights enumerated in the First Amendment regardless of age, something even the rest of the liberal judges of the Burger and Rehnquist Courts fell short on consistently. The statement best representing Marshall’s judicial philosophy is his quote, “You do what you think is right and let the law catch up", something his opponents criticized as judicial activism or “legislating from the bench”. But few can disagree that the scope of the First Amendment Americans enjoy today would be unrecognizable

without the commitment to liberty and incredible foresight Thurgood Marshall practiced from the bench during his

time on the highest court in the land.

that welfare recipients are undeserving, lazy poor people who sit around using drugs instead of getting jobs. States, not the federal government, decide who is eligible for programs like SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, what Moriarty refers to as ‘food stamps’). Policies vary wildly between states. In Texas, able-bodied people ages 16 to 59 who work fewer than 20 hours per week and are not pregnant may only get SNAP benefits for three months per three-year period. This severely limits the ‘free ride’ that Moriarty describes, as SNAP is by design an emergency transitional program meant to ensure those who are caught between jobs or stuck in a low-wage job do not starve. Moriarty seems to think that these requirements were put in place only recently by President Trump, even though many states have had them for years. Saying that ‘all recipients should be

legal citizens’ is a disingenuous reference to the false narrative that immigrants illegally exhaust American resources. Federal law mandates that SNAP recipients must be legal citizens or legal residents who meet strict requirements. Proof of citizenship or other legal residency status is already required to receive social assistance benefits, so recommending such proof as a necessary conservative reform displays Moriarty’s ignorance of existing law. In the same paragraph, Moriarty mentions the widespread problem of homelessness among disabled veterans; she appears to be unaware that about 1.7 million veterans live in a household that receives SNAP benefits, roughly 8 percent of the entire US veteran population according to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities. The requirements to receive SNAP are just as stringent for veterans as civilians.

According to the US Census Bureau, from 2009 to 2012 about 63 percent of TANF beneficiaries stopped receiving benefits between one month and a year after qualifying, and about 47 percent of SNAP beneficiaries stopped receiving benefits between one month and two years of receiving the benefit (USCB, release number CB15-97). Nearly 40 percent of social assistance recipients are children up to age 18, and a further 12 percent were 65 or older. While it is obvious that welfare benefits should not be permanent, it is important to note that they were never designed to be. Forty states have lifetime caps on social assistance program use — the most generous program is 60 months.

Texas State. Although he ‘apologised’ in an interview with The University Star, he excused his actions as ‘locker room talk...’ It is clear that Clegg finds racism acceptable, just not in certain settings. Furthermore, even using that phrase

tells us plenty regarding his credibility and how sorry he truly is. If steps haven’t already been taken to remove him from the student body position, then we should begin to. This is the absolute least that should be done. Clegg does not represent the best of

Texas State, our values, or our diverse campus.

ILLUSTRATION BY KENNEDY SWIFT

-Zach Ienatsch is a journalism senior

LETTER TO THE EDITOR Ms Cervantes, Katelyn Moriarty’s editorial concerning welfare programs, published Jan. 20, is rife with misreported, twisted facts and false equivalencies—welfare is not as free of a ride as she seems to think. Let us begin with drug testing. Studies show that mandatory drug testing costs taxpayers more money, and that social assistance applicants test positive for illegal drugs at a fraction of the estimated national drug use rate according to ThinkProgress. A federal statute precludes felons with drug convictions from applying for social assistance. Only four states waive this restriction—Maine, Minnesota, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin—and they still mandate that those with felony drug charges pass periodic drug testing to keep their benefits. Moriarty’s focus on drug testing irrationally assumes

Toni Mac Crossan Biology senior

LETTER TO THE EDITOR President Trauth, I am disgusted and disappointed by the news regarding student body president Connor Clegg. It is an embarrassment to have someone of that mentality represent the students here at

Rodolfo Abina, 4th year Communication Studies Major, Japanese/English Minor

CARTOON OF THE WEEK

CARTOON BY STEPHANIE CLOYD | GRAPHIC DESIGNER

The University Star

SPORTS

Tuesday, February 6, 2018 | 9 Brooke Phillips Sports Editor @BrookePhillips_

UniversityStar.com @universitystar

BASKETBALL INJURY

Filling in for the fallen By Region Kinden Sports Reporter The men’s basketball team lost sophomore point guard Marlin Davis, checkedearly this season due to an injury in competition against Troy University. Davis was a one-year veteran who started for the Bobcats before tearing his ACL. When Davis was on the court, the Bobcats had an 11-7 overall record and a 2-1 record in the Sun Belt Conference. Davis played 16 games this season and had 73 points including his 28of-70 shot from the field and 2-of-14 from beyond the arch. He had a careerhigh of 56 assists overall. Without the veteran point guard's leadership and team chemistry, the Bobcats will have to step up to finish the season strong. The Bobcats have a team full of young talent that need to learn the ropes quickly and step into the rotation.

They have replaced Davis with another guard, junior Tre’Larenz Nottingham. Nottingham is a first-year transfer from Mt. San Jacinto College where he was named First Team All-CCCAA and AllPacific Coast Athletic Conference twice. He averaged 19.2 points, 5.9 rebounds, 5.4 assists and 2.3 steals per game and led the CCCAA with 635 points, 242 made free-throws and 76 steals. This season, Nottingham has displayed more drive to score than Davis with 140 points on the season, including shooting 42-of-125 from the field and 22-of-66 from the three-point range. The junior point guard has filled the role well after the fall of his teammate. He has been playing more minutes on the court and continues to build a strong bond with his more established teammates. “When Marlin went down, I felt like we really came together more collectively and stronger,” Nottingham said. Sophomore guard Nijal Pearson,

Bobcats get the game going against the Roadrunners with the tip-off last season. STAR FILE PHOTO

senior forward Immanuel King and freshman guard Shelby Adams, have been forced to step up as well. King has received an additional two minutes per game since Davis has been out and is attempting more shots as well. Pearson also has some added weight on his shoulders with more time on the court and adding more shot attempts to his stats. Adams is getting more involved in the rotation and seeing a fair share of time on the court. He has contributed

well both offensively and defensively for Texas State. As the season continues, so will the Bobcats. They have already pulled off a number of tough conference wins, even without Davis being an active member of the team. Nottingham and the Bobcats are hoping to get back to the Sun Belt Conference Championship and take it even further this season.

SOFTBALL

Senior infielder aims to finish career on top By Anthony Flores Sports Reporter Reaching the end of the college journey can be difficult and intimidating. For senior infielder Ariel Ortiz, the feeling of intimidation is dwarfed by the excitement of entering the next phase of life. “It’s kind of exciting to see what’s next,” Ortiz said. “I’ve done softball ever since I can remember, so moving on is kind of ... scary; but it’s also exciting.” The Waxahachie, Texas native began her softball career around the age of eight after a short stint playing baseball. “I actually started in baseball," Ortiz said. "I stopped at coach pitch and went to softball around the time they start using the machines.” Ortiz joined the Bobcats in 2015, starting in all 53 games as the everyday shortstop. In the same season, Ortiz led the team in home runs with 12, doubles with 16, total bases with 111 and runs scored with 44. Now in her final season, Ortiz is Texas State’s all-time leader in home runs with 33 and holds the single-season record for home runs with 15 in 2017. Her .324 batting average is second all-time among the Bobcats.

Ariel Ortiz, senior infielder, hitting a ball against UIW at Bobcat Softball Park last season. STAR FILE PHOTO

Ortiz is determined to make the best of her remaining time. The senior infielder has high expectations for the 2018 season and feels that the team around her, despite their youth, can help her meet or surpass those expectations. “I’m very confident in our team right now,” Ortiz said. “The girls are meshing well, so I’m really excited for what’s in store (this year).”

Ortiz and the Bobcats made waves in the 2017 postseason before losing the Sun Belt Conference championship to the Louisiana Ragin' Cajuns and getting eliminated from the NCAA College Station Regional by the Texas Longhorns. Ortiz makes it clear, however, that the last season is in the past. The senior infielder views the team's mistakes as

opportunities to learn and improve. “You always have to move on," Ortiz said. "You can’t dwell on the past. You can only work to change the future. We’re getting better every day, so I think we’re ready to take on more competition and go farther.” Ortiz, one of the team's veteran players, takes her job of empowering the younger, less-experienced members seriously as she hopes to leave them able to carry the team after her departure. For the infielder, the growth of new players takes some of the pressure she feels. “Taking them under your wing and not so much focusing on yourself, honestly, it helps,” Ortiz said. “I don’t feel pressure. I’m not worried about what I need to be doing. It’s almost relaxing that I get to help other people now.” Even with all the winning and all the individual success she has had, it is the camaraderie she found among her fellow Bobcats that will stay with her. “It’s been so much fun learning from everyone and getting to know all these girls,” Ortiz said. “I would just thank them for the memories and sticking it out with me through the bad times and the good.”

BASKETBALL

Hard work in the off-season pays off By Melea Polk Assistant Sports Editor From one start last season to a starting position this season, one player’s hard work in the offseason has paid off. Tyler Blount, senior guard, came to Texas State by way of New Mexico Junior College. There, Blount was named First Team All-Western Junior College Athletic Conference with 25 starts in his sophomore season. Blount averaged 15.0 points, 2.1 assists and 2.0 rebounds per game. From there, Blount transferred to San Marcos for the 2016-17 season. In his first season with the Bobcats, Blount played 35 games with one start. The Virginia Beach, Virginia, native averaged 2.8 points, 0.7 rebounds and .4 assists per game. Blount went 34.9 percent from long-distance and 38.0 percent from the field. With three starting positions opening up in the new season, Blount decided to take his hard work to another level to earn one of those spots.

“During the offseason, I worked really hard,” Blount said. “I was always in the gym trying to improve my game. Sometimes it would just be me in the gym by myself or some of my teammates would join me.” Blount earned his spot on the starting five this season. In his first game of the 2017-2018 season, Blount shot 50.0 percent from the field goal and 33.3 percent from the three-point line. With a season high of 22 points, four rebounds and five assists, Blount’s hard work has given him recognition. The Applied Arts and Science major currently averages 22.0 minutes a game. Blount averages 6.7 points, 1.7 rebounds and 1.1 assists. The guard shoots 41.7 percent from the field and 40.7 percent from the three-point line. From the charity stripe, Blount shoots 53.3 percent. “Going into games, it is all about my focus,” Blount said. “I have great games when I am not rushing. I have to let it come to me.”

SEE BASKETBALL PAGE 10

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UNIVERSITYSTAR.COM/CLASSIFIEDS

10 | Tuesday, February 6, 2018

SPORTS

The University Star Brooke Phillips Sports Editor @BrookePhillips_

UniversityStar.com @universitystar

FROM PAGE 9 BASKETBALL Of course, being a starter comes with a lot of responsibility. It is Blount’s job to not only step up as a starter but also as a senior on the team. “As a senior and a starter, there is a lot of pressure,” Blount said. “You are expected to lead and listen. I try and talk to the younger guys and the new players about the Texas State culture and what to expect out of it. For example, I let

them know how to understand what head coach Danny Kaspar wants out of us.” Although Blount is not a team captain for the Bobcats, he still sees himself as a leader in a sense. "I am not a team captain or anything, but I am still one of the ones who has been on the team the longest,” Blount said. “I see myself as a leader on the

back-end. I lead from a distance in a sense. I still talk to the freshmen and try to be a good role model for them. The only thing I don’t have is the title.” With the Sun Belt Conference Championship tournament beginning March 7, Blount would rather focus on the next game than the big tournament at the end of the season. “I just want to finish out the season,

then worry about the conference tournament when we get there,” Blount said. “I am just going to take a game at a time.” Blount and the Bobcats will compete for the SBC Championship March 7-11 at the New Orleans Lakefront Arena in New Orleans, Louisiana.

STRUTTER

BASEBALL

A Strutter leaving a legacy By Michelle Joseph Sports Reporter

Luke Sherley, senior infielder, at bat inside Bobcat Ballpark last season. STAR FILE PHOTO

Shortstop looking to translate previous season success into final year By John Paul Mason II Sports Reporter Hitting a walk-off is always a baseball player's dream. Hitting it against The University of Texas? That is something that senior infielder Luke Sherley, can cross off his bucket list. "There's nothing like playing in front of a crowd of people," Sherley said. "It was pretty wild. My teammates and everyone else were pretty excited." Sherley is looking forward to his last season as a bobcat. "As a team we were really disappointed with last year. We were a regional team... and we didn’t perform like it, but we have used that as motivation," Sherley said. "I have much bigger goals than what I achieved last year, and we as a team have really worked hard.... We are really excited for Feb. 16th." Sherley has always loved baseball, and that love for the game is one of the many factors that help him do his best. “My dad got me into baseball when I was seven," Sherley said. "It's been my passion since I first started playing." While thinking of his time at Texas State, Sherley credited the campus and coaching staff with convincing him to bring his talents to San Marcos. "Well, coming out of high school, I wasn’t heavily recruited. I only had one D1 offer and that was from Texas State," Sherley said. "The coaches gave me a chance and I was fired up. I came on the visit and committed. I fell in love with this place and I have never regretted it."

"(The campus) sells itself when you walk through it…I was walking through it today, and there is no way there is another campus out there as pretty as ours," Sherley said. "The people are so laid back, and I really like everyone I have met here. My teammates have been awesome." Head coach Ty Harrington has been memorable to Sherley, with Harrington always wanting get the best out of his players. "Our coaches are player coaches, and they really do the best they can to bring out the best in us. They do everything they can to help you get better," Sherley said. "Coach Harrington is really laid back but at the same time is a no B.S. kinda guy. He's really allowed me to become the player I am today and pushed me, and we are really lucky to have the coaches we have." For Sherley, the best thing about playing for the Bobcats is playing shortstop. "It's in the middle of the field and it gets a lot of action," Sherley said. Sherley does not even think about stats when addressing his final season. His main concern is the team. "I want to be more of a leader on days when things aren’t going my way," Sherley said. "Help my teammates bring out the best in themselves, and enjoy my last season." Sherley hopes that his past experience will help him and his team stay focused this year. He wants to lead his team to more than just walkoff wins against in-state rivals this season.

It is not easy to juggle multiple commitments that require a certain level of dedication and hard work. Those qualities are reflected in senior Strutter Melita Wallace. Wallace began her journey of dance while watching her oldest sister perform. In the fifth grade, Wallace did ballroom dancing until middle school when she tried sports. Sports did not satisfy her as much as dance did. She followed her heart and was a part of her high school dance team for four years. “Ever since I started dancing, there is nothing I could have ever been more passionate about,” Wallace said. “Dancing is my absolute favorite thing to do. Even when it is tiring it feels so good to do it.” Wallace has a significant impact on her team being Pom Captain. She enjoys the pressure of the role even if it is challenging. “I have to lead by example, even if I am tired; I never show it,” Wallace said. “It’s a lot of responsibility. I have to think on my feet and make the best decisions for everyone else on the team.” Being an active student can make balancing commitments and responsibilities difficult. Wallace pushes through every obstacle because responsibilities teach her useful skills for her future. “I’ve been in this position for three years, I have to choreograph, teach steps and set formations," Wallace said. "I am currently taking 19 hours to graduate this spring. I am a part of other organizations and (have) a job. If I continue to use time management it will be a breeze later in life.” Although the Strutter has received recognition, she would rather build a legacy for those behind her to look up to. Wallace stands out for her high energy while performing, cheering the loudest on sidelines and all-around Bobcat spirit. “It’s really awesome to be recognized for your passion,” Wallace said. “Especially now that I’m leaving, I want to pass the recognition to new Strutters. I hope they are fearless and go for it.” When she is not managing all of her commitments, she is online shopping or watching Netflix shows. Her favorite shows are "How to Get Away with Murder," "Scandal" or any Netflix original. “I rarely have free time to enjoy television but when I do, I treasure those moments,” Wallace said. "My room is sleep sanctuary."

After graduation Wallace has big plans for herself. She is moving to Chicago in hopes of becoming a part of the Chicago Bulls dance team, The Luvabulls, while attending law school. “I love change and new environments so I’m eager to get there," Wallace said. "Being a part of the Luvabulls is my top dance goal. After achieving it, I believe I will hang up my jazz shoes forever.” Wallace has a passion for dance and her light will shine bright wherever she steps next. “Texas State Strutters dance team has been an amazing experience," Wallace said. “I wouldn’t know what to do with myself without dance. It’s really all I have and I can’t imagine living life without it.”

Melita Wallace, senior Pop Captain for the Strutters, pumps up the crowd at a past football game. PHOTO COURTESY OF MELITA WALLACE

The University Star

Tuesday, February 6, 2018 | 11

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