Valley Magazine | Spring 2011

VALLEY SPRING 2011

STOCK UP FOR SUMMER

Fill your beach bag with the must-haves on page 12

Rainy day blues?

The six flicks on page 22 are sure to brighten any day

Wardrobe for work Learn what to wear when you’re on the job on page 60

Work it out The best reasons—and tips—to get moving when the sun’s out.

Pages 16 & 17

Listen Local Three bands on pages 26-28 are making a splash in State College

B B

uilding ridges

Michal Berns came to Penn State from Israel— and she is determined to leave campus better than when she arrived

AD

it’s spring

indulge yourself dress up

mr. charles (814)238-3042 | 228 E College Ave.

AD

TABLE OF

CONTENTS

SPRING 2011 4. Table of Contents 9. Editor’s Letter

15. What’s in Your Bottle?

Ever wonder what’s really in your skincare products? Find out there!

23. The Final Countdown Classical remixes of your favorite tunes can actually help you study.

10. Ask the Staff What are your plans when the April Showers end?

16. The Perks of Exercise Working out has more benefits than just getting you in shape.

24. Throw a Forever Young Party Revisit your childhood with a party filled with the ‘90s finest.

Beauty

Section Opener Sharaya Musser

17. Head Outside Take advantage of the sunshine and move your workouts outdoors.

26. Band Package Groundbreaking Ceremony, Zak Sobel Band and Primary Element.

12. Summer Essentials All the beauty products you will need to survive the summer.

18. Hungry in Happy Valley Get the most for your money when grocery shopping in State College.

13. Stay Safe in the Sun Find the right sunscreen for your skin type.

Sunglasses Protect your peepers with a chic pair of sunglasses.

19. Make Late Look Lovely In a hurry? You can still look chic— without wasting time getting ready.

29. I Spy Look around while you walk through downtown State College—you may be surprised!

14. 5 Ways to Train for a 5K Follow these easy steps to prepare for a race Sip This, Not That The best—and worst—of Starbucks.

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Entertainment Section Opener Anna Jepson

22. A Movie a Day Keeps the Doctor Away Beat the rainy day blues with these side-splitters.

Spring 2011

Self-Improvement Section Opener Abbi Beddall

32. Separated by Skylines Readers share their long distance relationship experiences.

33. No More Lazy Summers Make the most of those hazy summer days.

34. Beauty is Only (Photoshopped) Skin Deep Ever wonder if celebrities really look that perfect? Find out here.

41. Summertime in the U.S. Virgin Islands Take a trip to this tropical paradise.

35. Crazy for Love Nittany Lions will do some crazy things for love.

42. A Long Way From Home Abetare Fazilu, a Penn State student who grew up in war-torn Kosovo, shares her story with Valley readers.

36. The Lost Art of the Thank You Note Never underestimate the power a handwritten note can have.

What EveryBODY is Really Saying Learn how your body language can speak louder than your words.

37. Misreading Signals Valley investigates the “friend zone.”

Culture & Diversity Section Opener Jessica Michele Ramos

40. State Theater: Inside a Cultural Cornerstone This diamond in the rough offers more than just movies.

44. Not-Always-So-Happy Valley How to deal with serious situations like depression and suicide.

46. Dear Old State Learn the truth behind some of Penn State’s most well-known legends.

47. Cover Story Building Bridges Michal Berns

Fashion

Section Opener Taran Muller

54. Working in Style Love Victoria’s Secret PINK and American Eagle? Two students share their experiences as interns for the two companies.

55. Cyber-shopping for the Nittany Lioness Check out these websites for some fabulous fashionista finds.

56. Fashion Spread Striking Neutrals 60. What to Wear to Work Valley gives you inspiration for your office wardrobe.

62. Maximizing Your Closet Think you have nothing to wear?

Reorganize your closet and think again!

63. DIY: T-riffic Transformation Turn a regular T-shirt from drab to fab with a few simple steps.

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EDITORIAL DIVISION

President / Editor-in-Chief: Erin Mawe Design Director: Jessica Gottschalk Photography Director: Ann Sciandra Financial Director: Emily Hitechew Managing Editor: Jen Kach

beauty & health

Beauty Editor: Christine

Beauty Writers:

Bove Alyssa Blanco, Jeanne Drouilhet, Kaitlyn Knopp, Amy Lewis, Michele Mendelson

entertainment

Entertainment Editor: Haley Blum Entertainment Writers: Tomorrow Helton-Ingram,

Megan Prucnal

self-improvement

Self-Improvement Editor: Georgia Templeton Self-Improvement Writers: Kathleen Gormley, Ross Marcinizyn, Anita

Oh, Ali Prescott

culture & diversity

Cultures Editor: Christine Mouser Cultures Writers: Kyra Nelson, Rachel Yamin

fashion

Fashion Editor: Elysia Mann Stylist: Samantha McCloskey

Fashion Writer: Cassidy

Clauss, Emily Grier, Michelle Turli

graphic design

Lauren Byerly, Erin Gehringer, Katie Kreisher, Nicole Leva, Kelsey Stratton, Julie Wuenschel

photography

Photography Editor: Julianna

Photographers:

O’Malley Michelle Amann, Natalie Husick, Jennie Litchenstein, Lindsay Lipovich, Ronald Lopez, Kim Yee

web

Web Editor: Elysia

Mann

board of advisers

Christine Arbutina, Erika Isler, Karen Magnuson, Jill Shockey, Ronald Smith, Ann Taylor, Suzanne Wayne, Jennifer Zeigler 6

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Spring 2011

business division

Vice President / Managing Director: Nora Snoddy Assistant Managing Director: Catherine Clawson

advertising

Advertising Directors: Aimee Carricato & Caroline Radvansky Advertising Assistant: Megan Huet Advertising Team: Cassidy Clauss, Sarah Darcy, Kaila Derienzo, Jess Edwards,

Nicole Faiella, Dana Goldstein, Tara Gottlieb, Hilary Katz, Ashlee Mercogliano, Cassandra Nissi, Megan Prucnal, Marianna Saucier, Emily Schade, Isabel Stanish, Alissa Strong, Andrea Tinkoff, Gabriella Vaccaro, Rachel Yeager

events management

Events Management Directors: Erin Donahue & Elle Scarpa Events Management Assistant: Kara Latos Events Management Team: Alexis Bott, Katlin Cardillo, Melissa Cropper,

Kelly Godzik, Sarah Greenberg, Kelcy Kolar, Allison LaTorre, Samantha Malandra, Gina McNamee, Christine Mouser, Caroline Rehknow, Devin Schiaffino, Stephanie Spada, Alex Steinman, Amianica Suarez, Rachel Taylor

marketing and public relations

Marketing and Public Relations Directors: Monica O’Donnell & Nicole Marketing and Public Relations Assistant: Alexis Giua Marketing and Public Relations Team: Lauren Chornodolsky, Marenah

Parra

Dobin, Kelsey Flatau, Julianne Gamache, Jenna Hammond, Sarah Hoffman, Bernadette Laspee, Amy Lewis, Maria Lobron, Katie Lynch, Kim Mouser, Brittany Obetz, Nicole Pulli, Megan Quirk, Kelly Riggs, Kim Schmohl, Rebecca Stoltz, Sarah Townsend, Kara Yacovone, Lindsay Zeky

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352 E. College Ave, State College, PA | (814) 237-1946

EDITOR’S LETTER I don’t like change.

Anyone who knows me can attest to the fact that I live for tradition. My sisters and I have a very specific schedule on Christmas morning every year, but this past December we did things differently. I was not a happy camper. I will make sure that for this upcoming Christmas we will revert to our old agenda.

Penn State, therefore, was an easy choice because it is built on tradition.

From football to THON and everything in between, the university is not only building legacies, but leaving them as well. After four years here, however, I have started noticing some changes that have been creeping in. I used to play soccer where the Millennium Science Complex is being built, or lay out on the now-shrinking HUB lawn. Even though the sentimentalist inside me is sad that future Penn Staters won’t have these opportunities, I recently realized that they will have different ones. That’s how things work in life; they change and evolve—and, a lot of times, end up better. Our cover girl, Michal Berns, has worked hard during her time in Happy Valley to make changes that have improved the college experience for many current students as well as those that will come after her. To hear about her influence at Penn State and her experiences as a student thousands of miles away from her home in Israel, read her story on page 47.

I came into college as a history major (surprise, surprise) and Valley is what made me switch to journalism. I want to thank everyone on Valley’s staff for the wonderful experience that I’ve had over the past three years. A special thanks goes out to Magda Krawczyk and Jess Gottschalk, our design directors from this year, Jen Kach, our managing editor, Ann Sciandra, our photography director, and the entire editorial staff. Valley also wouldn’t be where it is today without the dedication of our business division. I can’t thank Nora Snoddy, our business division director, enough for all of her hard work throughout our three years working on the magazine together.

I hope you enjoy reading this issue as much as we did putting it together.

Check out page 62 for tips that will help you make the most of your closet space.

Whether you have a tiny cupboard or a walk-in wonder, staying organized will make it easier for you to get ready— without having to throw a pile of clothes on the floor.

With hundreds of skincare products and ingredients, it can be difficult to sort through the masses and know which ones are right for you. Flip to page 15 for a list of common ingredients and their functions so you can pick up a product that is perfect for your skin type.

Looking for a tropical vacation this summer? Learn all about the U.S. Virgin Islands on page 41. With their pristine beaches and plenty of exciting activities, the U.S. Virgin Islands are a no-brainer for a getaway to paradise.

Onward,

Erin Mawe Erin Mawe 9

ASK THE STAFF: What are your plans when the April Showers ARE OVER?

“Laying out on the HUB lawn with a smoothie in hand, listening to music with my favorite people.”

Anita Oh, self-improvement writer

“Walk instead of taking the bus to my farthest classes!”

Elysia Mann, fashion editor

“Sit outside on my balcony and read a good book.”

Jess Gottschalk, design director

“Daffodils on Old Main Lawn!”

Aimee Carricato, co-advertising director

“Open my windows and get some fresh air!”

Haley Blum, entertainment editor

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Spring 2011

Seeing what the shops in town have for summer.

Nora Snoddy, managing director

SHARAYA MUSSER Age: 20 Year: Sophomore Major: Kinesiology Hometown:

Colorado Springs, Colo.

Gymnastic résumé:

2009 Beam Champion at Junior Olympic Nationals; 2010 Big Ten Freshman of the Year; placed 6th at 2010 Nationals; currently nationally ranked at No. 1 on the beam, No. 3 allaround and No. 3 on the vault.

WHY GYMNASTICS: “I’ve been

doing it my whole life, it’s part of who I am. Coming from club gymnastics to a college team was amazing. Club is more individualistic and college is all about your team, so it is a way different role, but it’s very exciting.”

No. 1 in the nation: “I tried

back in 2008 for the Olympics, but I had some unfortunate events happen and I didn’t make it...But all the hard work is obviously paying off now. Looking back, it’s not like I was training for nothing. It made me the gymnast I am today.”

ADVICE for Valley readers: “Pick a goal or have a

purpose in life and go after that goal and purpose. There’s no better feeling than accomplishing a goal.”

BEAUTY&HEALTH we are... beautiful

travel-sized sunscreen:

Sunglasses:

Slathering SPF on skin is crucial— even off the beach. Try to lather up 30 minutes before heading into the sunshine. Bonus: Using sunscreen now will prevent wrinkles and leathery skin later! Find the perfect sunscreen for your skin type on page 13.

SUMMER

ESSENTIALS The perfect summer requires several things: sunburn-free skin, lips that aren’t chapped...and, of course, plenty of sunshine! Let Kaitlyn Knopp show you the essentials you’ll use all summer long, all of which can easily fit in your favorite tote.

Squinting and overexposing eyes to sunlight increases the chance of cataracts, eyelid discoloration and wrinkles.

Bonus: With hundreds of cute frames to choose from, it’s easy to find a flattering pair that’s right for you! Check out Valley’s suggestions on page 13.

FACE-BLOTTING SHEETS: Whether you’re rushing to a job or an important interview or just out with friends, it’s important to look shine-free and put-together. Bonus: Some oil-blotting sheets are coated with a thin layer of powder, which helps control shine even better.

Photos by Lindsay Lipovich

baby powder: BABY POWDER: A small shake over sandy areas means chafing will be a thing of the past. Bonus: If your hair gets greasy— and in the summer this is unavoidable—sprinkle a little at the roots and run it through your strands. Be careful, though! Too much and you’ll end up looking dusty.

TRAVEL-SIZED DEODORANT: Maintains freshness, no matter how hot it gets. Bonus: Try putting deodorant on before bed because your body absorbs it best while you sleep—this way you can use less in the morning.

Reusable water bottle: It is extremely important to stay hydrated while running from work to the beach and everywhere in between. Bonus: Avoiding plastic water bottles is better for the environment.

NAIL POLISH: Carry a small bottle of quickfix nail polish to keep nails protected and shining. Bonus: If you get bored with the same color (who doesn’t!?), find a shade that changes color in the sun or that has lots of shimmer so it looks different under different lighting.

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Lip BALM: Keep lips sun-kissed and kissable with moisturizing care. Bonus: Pick up a stick with some SPF to prevent the ever-uncomfortable lip sunburn.

Spring 2011

SQUARE SHAPE: Try a funky oval or round frame, or if you’re daring, go for the butterfly-shaped frames. Make sure the temples of the glasses are centered and connect at the top of the frame to fit the balanced proportions in your face.

Expensive: Ray-Ban ‘High Street’ Sunglasses, $179, ray-ban.com Less expensive: Butterfly Sunglasses, $12, Apple Tree

SHADES FOR YOUR SHAPE

OVAL SHAPE: Try a rectangular or geometric frame to add rough angles to the soft curves of your face.

Expensive: Gucci Square Frame Sunglasses, $295, Nordstrom.com Less expensive: Aviators, $12, Apple Tree

Have an oval, round, square or heart-shaped face? Find the best frames for your shape (and wallet!) with some help from Amy Lewis. Photos by Natalie Husick ROUND SHAPE:

HEART SHAPE:

Draw attention to the top of the face with rectangular, horizontal frames that will make it look longer and narrower.

Look for a bottom-heavy frame for balance. Frames styled with low-set temples call attention downward to add width to the lower half of your face.

Expensive: Tory Burch Snake Trim Square Sunglasses, $165, Nordstrom.com Less expensive: Black sunglasses with white stripe , $12, Apple Tree

Expensive: Marc by Marc Jacobs Retro Ombré Cat Eye Sunglasses, $98, lordandtaylor.com Less expensive: Green Wayfarers, $12, Apple Tree

STAY SAFE IN THE SUN Protecting your skin is important, but knowing the best sunscreen for your skin type can be tricky.

Amy Lewis takes the guesswork out of SPF. NORMAL SKIN:

DRY SKIN:

This water-resistant, oil-free sunscreen can be applied to the face and body. Make sure to get at least SPF 30 for protection from UV rays.

With its creamy texture, this sunscreen both moisturizes and protects your skin— plus, it’s waterresistant!

Coppertone Oil Free SPF 30 Sunscreen Lotion, $6.55 for 8 oz., Target

Paula’s Choice Extra Care Moisturizing Sunscreen SPF 30+, $11.96 for 5 oz., PaulasChoice.com

OILY SKIN: This dermatologistrecommended product is made specifically for your face. Like the others, it is oil-free, water-resistant and will protect you from harmful rays.

Aveeno Active Naturals Continuous Protection Sunblock Lotion, $7 for 3 oz., Wal-Mart

beauty & health 13

5 Ways to... Train for a 5k

Looking to challenge yourself physically? Christine Bove and Megan Schuchert, an instructor in the Department of Kinesiology at Penn State, share some tips to get you in shape to run a 5K!

1. Get the right equipment. Invest in running shoes that fit both your feet and your style of running. A shoe store can evaluate your running style and fit you with an appropriate pair.

2. Find a good target race. The 5K is the most popular race length, so you’ll be able to find one that works for your schedule and location. Once you find it, get signed up ASAP. If you sign up ahead of time, you are more likely to stay on track with your workouts.

3. Start slowly and gradually build up.

You want to follow a well-balanced plan that will slowly increase your mileage. Doing too much too quickly can increase risk for injury and burnout.

4. Stick to your plan. Once you have a training plan outlined, stick to it as much as you can. Be sure to give yourself enough time to adequately train for your race. Build in some rest days and listen to your body.

5. Have fun. Find a good running partner or group to train with to make your workouts even more enjoyable.

Photos by Ronald Lopez

SIP This, Not That!

For college students, a grande-espresso-extra-shotwith-whip is a go-to for that quick boost of energy, but it comes at a price. Ali Prescott shows you how many calories you’re drinking and how to consciously cut back while still enjoying your favorite caffeinated beverage.

We all have a guilty pleasure, whether it’s trashy TV or a good book, but when it comes to caffeine, Starbucks beats them all. Take a look at the bad, the better and the best before ordering your next drink.

THE BAD: 16oz. Peppermint White

Photo by Michelle Amann

THE BETTER: 16oz. Caramel

THE BEST: 16oz. Iced “Skinny”

Calories: 470, Fat: 12 grams, Sugar: 76 grams. If you downsize to 12 oz. instead of 16 oz., you will cut out 110 calories and 3 grams of fat. Using non-fat milk and holding the whipped cream is beneficial, too.

Calories: 240, Fat: 7 grams, Sugar: 31 grams. Choosing non-fat milk for this drink will cut calories from 240 to 190 without losing any of the flavor. This creamy treat is available hot or cold, making it a good choice any time of year.

Calories: 110, Fat: 4 grams, Sugar: 9 grams. “Skinny” drinks at Starbucks are the best choice because you get to choose any sugar-free flavor that’s available to add to your latte—plus, this iced treat is great way cool down.

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Spring 2011

Chocolate Mocha with 2 percent milk

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Macchiato with 2 percent milk

Flavored Latte with 2 percent milk

WHAT’S IN YOUR BOTTLE? Ever wondered what’s in your favorite skincare products? Christine Pazul, an esthetician from J. Stephens Salon & Spa in State College, shares with Christine Bove a list of ingredients that you should look for when choosing skincare products.

Having worked with top skincare lines for the past 10 years, Pazul knows which key ingredients are popular and most effective. “[The list] is always being talked about and is worth highlighting,” she says.

Let’s pop open the bottle and see what’s inside.

Amount Per Serving

% Daily Value

Hyaluronic Acid:

Found in the dermis layer of the skin, this acid is a natural moisturizer with water-binding properties. It can hold 100 times its weight in moisture, providing long-lasting hydration.

COLLAGEN

As one of the most effective and economical proteins available, collagen is produced naturally in the body. When applied to skin, it adds hydration and retains moisture.

ELASTIN

RETINOL

Found in connective tissue, this protein keeps skin flexible. Its main purpose is to protect, but it also prevents aging. When applied to skin, it helps alleviate the effects of dryness and improves tension.

A form of vitamin A, retinol has become very popular in recent years. It is used in anti-aging products to aid in the resurfacing and rejuvenation of skin. It also helps give a clearer, more vibrant complexion.

ALPHA HYDROXY ACID

AHAs, which are great for every skin type, contain exfoliating and emollient properties that can also moisturize and hydrate. AHAs improve the appearance of aging skin and are prime ingredients for anti-acne products. Examples include glycolic acid, lactic acid, malic acid and natural fruit enzymes like pomegranate, papaya, pumpkin and pineapple.

SALICYLIC ACID

Found in some plants—like wintergreen leaves and the bark of sweet birch—salicylic acid helps dissolve the top layer of cells and improve the look and feel of skin while also being a natural antiseptic.

ANTIOXIDANTS

PEPTIDES

These neutralize free radical activity, strengthen and optimize skin’s natural defenses and tone, and clarify and boost skin’s collagen network.

Signaling your skin to make more collagen, peptides help minimize the appearance of wrinkles and keep skin taut. beauty & health 15

THE PERKS OF

OF EXERCISE Besides getting you healthy and fit, working out has other bonuses.

Jeanne Drouilhet explains how exercising boosts your mood and motivation.

Elle Woods had it right: Exercise really does make you happy (and happy people don’t kill their husbands…they just don’t). According to Ben Webb, a doctoral student in exercise psychology, various factors contribute to the good feeling you get after exercising.

During a workout, the body releases endorphins, which reduce pain and stress. Exercise and physical activities also positively influence your mood, since they create a sense of self-worth and accomplishment as well as a distraction from the negative parts of life.

However, this doesn’t mean you should go run a marathon because you’re feeling down in the dumps. Over-exercising can actually have a negative effect on your mood and decrease your motivation to exercise after you’ve had time to recover.

Remember to exercise at your own pace for optimal benefits.

Exercise can also boost your energy levels.

Regular exercise can lead to less fatigue, due to the same chemicals in the brain that create a good mood, explains Webb.

The increase in energy levels can overshadow other areas you used to go to for energy, like caffeine.

“A simplistic view of whether to use coffee or exercise as a pick-me-up is to consider that caffeine is an addictive drug, whose effects are temporary,” says Webb. “While there are some purported health benefits to drinking coffee, it does not supplant the role of exercise in improving physical and mental health.”

When you’re in a good mood and have more energy from exercising, it gets easier to have the motivation to go to the gym, rather than veg out on the couch in your free time. Getting to that point of motivation can be difficult, though.

Setting small attainable goals for yourself, like improving your mile time by one minute or losing five pounds, can help get you into the habit of exercising regularly.

So, if you need to kick your physical and mental health into tip-top shape and put a little pep in your step, try hitting the gym!

Photo by Kim Yee

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Spring 2011

HEAD OUTSIDE Take advantage of the warmer weather by heading outside to work out. Michele Mendelson spoke with Jessica Griffith, a Penn State fitness instructor, to learn more about how to get fit in the great outdoors.

As the summer approaches, the daily half-hour run on a treadmill or elliptical can become mundane. Griffith offers five easy ways to stay in shape this season while taking advantage of the summer sun.

1. Go for a swim Swimming is a great summer activity that exercises all muscles in the body.

It is one of the best full-body workouts out there because you use muscles in your arms, legs and abdomen.

2. Rock n’ Roll Rollerblading forces you to deal with muscles you might not normally exercise. Rollerblading is great for strengthening different parts of your legs that some exercises ignore.

3. Play like a kid You can strengthen your torso, abdomen and leg muscles—and get in some cardio—simply by jumping rope or hula hooping.

4. Take the stairs Taking the stairs instead of the elevator a few times a day is a simple way to get an extra cardio workout.

5. Embrace the great outdoors Utilize hills, playgrounds and natural slopes as an extra challenge to exercise muscles you don’t normally use.

Photo by Kim Yee

HUNGRY IN HAPPY VALLEY Just because you’re a college student doesn’t mean you have to shop like one. Jeanne Drouilhet shows you where to get groceries on a budget so that every dollar counts.

The Verdict: Allowing for some variation based on brand, sale items and availability, WalMart beat out the other three stores when it came to overall price based on Valley’s grocery list. Wegmans came in second, costing $6 more. The most conveniently-located store for students, McClanahan’s, proved to be the deepest pocket dive and had a total that was $20 higher than Wal-Mart’s.

Let’s take a closer look: Frozen DiGiorno pizza is more expensive at Weis and McClanahan’s by $2. The same is true for chips, salsa, spaghetti and marinara sauce.

Oreos are similar in price at all locations.

Lean Pockets and Special K Red Berries at McClanahan’s cost nearly twice as much compared to Wegmans.

A pound of baby carrots at Wegmans is 70 to 90 cents less than at all the other stores. (And they make a quick, healthy snack!)

Skinny Cow Ice Cream sandwiches are $3.79 at Wegmans. Weis ups the price nearly $2 for this guilt-free chilly treat.

A pound of bananas at Wegmans and Wal-Mart are 38 and 39 cents respectively, while McClanahan’s more than doubles the price.

Granny smith apples are cheapest at Weis at $1.49 a pound, with Wegmans at 50 cents more.

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Spring 2011

Photos by Jennie Litchenstein

THE STORES: McClanahan’s Wegmans Wal-Mart Weis

Of course, there are factors to consider other than price. McClanahan’s is in walking distance of campus and downtown, but it will drain your pocket 25 percent faster than driving out to one of the other stores. Wal-Mart may have the better price all around, but the produce isn’t always the freshest, the most consistently available or the most varied. Wegmans and Weis have a larger and fresher selection of fruits and veggies.

Whether you’re looking for the freshest, cheapest or best location, you now have the information that will keep you from going broke in the happiest of valleys.

MAKE LATE LOOK

Lovely

Running late at Penn State usually results in sweats, littleto-no makeup and a messy bun. Renee Barnes, stylist to the Miami Heat dancers, gave Alyssa Blanco some tips to take you from time-crunched and chaotic to casually chic.

Photos by Julianna O’Malley

Look 1

Look 2

Look 3

A loose bun doesn’t have to mean you’re headed to the gym.

Headbands will make you look put together—even if you don’t feel like you are!

Go for something sweet and simple.

A tousled bun is quick and easy for anyone on the go. Pull your hair back into a ponytail, pin up any excess and pull out a few tendrils. For a more dramatic look, tease your locks to add volume before you dash out the door.

Beaded, feathered and lace headbands are very in-season and compliment almost any look. If your hair is oily, apply baby powder to your scalp, rubbing it in before brushing it out. The powder absorbs the oil, making your hair look fresh and light.

MAKEUP TIPS ON A TIME CRUNCH If you’re really in a hurry, focus on what stands out on your face and make your best feature pop.

For a refreshed look, apply concealer and pink blush. Then curl your lashes and highlight your lips and eyes by adding some shimmer.

A neatly slicked-back ponytail is always classic and polished. For a more done-up look, wrap a piece of hair from the ponytail around the hair tie to hide it. For a little flair, try strategically placing fancy bobby pins to hold flyaways in place.

For a natural look, apply translucent powder, lip and cheek color and brown eyeliner.

For a glamorous look, apply tinted moisturizer, bronzer, mascara, black liner and lip gloss. beauty & health 19

AD

ANNA JEPSON Age: 22 Year: Senior Major: Integrative Arts Hometown: Centre Hall, Pa. HER ALBUM: “Something about Sunshine” (available on iTunes) HER INSPIRATION: “Usually relationships, or at least the idea of them. I don’t always write out of experience. Sometimes I’ll just get a picture in my mind and write off of that.”

MOST MEMORABLE PERFORMANCE: “A Chick-fil-A

grand opening last fall. Playing outside is an entirely different experience than inside.”

FAVORITE LYRICS: (From

Taylor Swift’s “Last Kiss”) “‘I’ll go sit on the floor wearing your clothes/ And all that I know is I don’t know/ How to be something you’ll miss.’ I’m not a huge follower of her stuff, but I think it encompasses love and loss perfectly. I felt what she felt when she wrote it.”

BEST LIFE ADVICE: “‘Live a

life of integrity.’ I want to be a person who is genuine no matter what the circumstances.”

FOLLOW ANNA:

myspace.com/annajepson Photo by Lindsay Lipovich

ENTERTAINMENT entertainingU

Hot with Breakup Fever?

After a breakup, the last thing you want to do is sit down and watch a sappy love story. Avoid the usual chick-flick clichés by watching “(500) Days of Summer.”

This film doesn’t paint any rainbows about dating as it jumps back and forth through the 500-day relationship between Tom (Joseph Gordon-Levitt) and Summer (Zooey Deschanel). The film’s witty dialogue and fabulous soundtrack will leave you feeling better about your recent relationship mishap.

Suffering from a Compromising Cough?

A cozy night in with the boyfriend can go downhill fast if you spend all evening arguing about what to watch. If you find yourself in this situation, turn to “Wedding Crashers.” Vince Vaughn and Owen Wilson’s hilarity is bound to keep your guy laughing while you sit back and soak in the love stories.

Love Sick?

Even though Valentine’s Day was in February, this holiday’s namesake movie is relevant all year. Whatever your Facebook relationship status says, “Valentine’s Day” is sure to warm your heart. The intertwining tales of the celebrity-heavy cast (Jessica Biel, Jamie Fox, Jennifer Garner, Ashton Kutcher, etc.) will remind you just how many people there are out there with crazy relationship drama—maybe even crazier than your own.

A MOVIE A DAY

KEEPS THE DOCTOR AWAY Laughter has been proven to benefit your health. Check out Valley’s funny-movie picks so you can get your daily dose of Vitamin L. By Megan Prucnal

Overcome with Nostalgic Nausea?

Case of the Rainy Day Blues?

Those stressful college days of homework overload mixed with roommate drama leaves everyone wishing they could return to the easy living of their youth. Thanks to the cinema, you can step “back to yesteryear” just as Lindsay Lohan says in “The Parent Trap.” A journey back to the ‘90s with a pair of crazy twins who play tricks on their stepmother is bound to crack you up.

Turn to the sidesplitting comedy “Drop Dead Gorgeous.” In one of Kirsten Dunst’s earliest roles, she portrays a beauty pageant contestant in the small town of Mount Rose, Minn. This “mockumentary” follows the contestants through hilarious dress rehearsals and uncommon talent pieces. Topped off with over-the-top Minnesota accents, this movie is sure to turn your bad day upside down.

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Down with a Single Sniffle?

Every girl has those days where they think they will never find “the one.”

A day when everyone else seems so happy and you’re stuck in a Singleville.

At a time like this, pop in “He’s Just Not That Into You.” With an all-star cast leading the movie, it is bound to restore your faith in men. You’ll laugh at the trials and tribulations of other failed relationships while also gaining hope that you might very well be “the exception to the rule.”

The Final

COUNTDOWN

Need a study aid?

Cassidy Clauss shows you how listening to some of your favorite tunes with a classical twist can help.

Photo by Jennie Litchenstein

Finals are right around the corner, which means lots of coffee and late-night library sessions. If motivation comes slowly, or if information is just not sinking in, listening to music can help drown out distractions.

You may be thinking, “Isn’t music going to be the distraction?” Not if it’s the right kind: Classical music allows you to relax and deal with the stresses of finals. Its fast beats and high pitches can increase heart rate, providing better concentration and allowing your brain to obtain more information more quickly. Because classical music stimulates both the left and right sides of your brain, it may increase the ability to learn and retain data as well as inspire creativity.

If you’re not in the mood for a nineminute symphony, don’t worry. Chances are there are songs in your music library that are fit to listen to in the library. The Vitamin String Quartet turned some of the most popular tunes into violin-heavy ballads. Instrumental tunes or songs from movie soundtracks can also prevent the distraction of lyrics. Instead of plugging into your favorite party playlist, try a mix of these modern classics:

1. “Poker Face”- Vitamin String Quartet Tribute to Lady Gaga 2. “The Winner Is”- Mychael Danna 3. “Mr. Brightside”- Vitamin String Quartet Tribute to The Killers 4. “Your Hand in Mine”- Explosions in the Sky 5. “Love Story”- Vitamin String Quartet Tribute to Taylor Swift 6. “Viva La Vida”- Vitamin String Quartet Tribute to Coldplay 7. “Flying Theme”- John Williams (“E.T.- The Extra-Terrestrial”) 8. “Kids”- Vitamin String Quartet Tribute to MGMT 9. “Use Somebody”- Vitamin String Quartet Tribute to Kings of Leon 10. “Avril 13th” - Aphex Twin

entertainment 23

THROW A

“Forever Young PARTY

I

Pay homage to your childhood by throwing a party completey inspired by it. Put on some old-school music, serve up some finger foods, channel your kiddie dreams and have a blast— to the past, that is.

Dress: Remember what you wanted to be when you were a kid? Well, use that as inspiration for your outfit. Tell your guests to dress up in outfits reminiscent of their childhood dreams, whether that is doctors, astronauts or costumes totally out of left field. Get really into it and don’t be afraid to let your inner child show!

Food and Drink: For this party, serve childhood snacks and favorite foods. Keep it fun by setting out bowls of candy from your youth— whatever kinds you liked best! Try to draw inspiration from things that might have been in your lunchbox like bitesized peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, Little Debbie snack cakes or fruit snacks.

But don’t be afraid to update your old favorites with an adult spin—try making peanut butter and jelly cupcakes or deepfried mac and cheese bites.

Serve drinks that you used to make as a child. Fun drinks like Tang, Kool-Aid and Sunny Delight can be served alone or mixed with bubbly Sprite for a grown-up twist. For some extra fun, buy a bunch of swirly straws to add that light-hearted touch to your guests’ drinks.

Decoration: Make your event fun and bright—just make sure not to make it look too childish.

Balloons and colorful cups and drinks will give the room a ‘kid’ feel without making it look too immature. Set out fun toys like water guns—even though they’re technically for children, friends will still have fun playing with them.

Music: Think throwback tunes. Entertain your guests with music from the era that they grew up in. For our generation, make sure the jams have a ‘90s- or early ‘00s-feel: Stick with boy bands and pop superstars like The Backstreet Boys and Britney Spears. For this nostalgic event, check out Valley’s recommendations below.

I

II

I

1. “…Baby One More Time” - Britney Spears

2. “No Scrubs” - TLC 3. “All Star” - Smash Mouth 4. “I Want It That Way” - The Backstreet Boys

5. “Say My Name” - Destiny’s Child

Photos by Lindsay Lipovich

Listen Local So the only bands in State College are covering Lady Gaga and Ke$ha at bars, right? Not if these three local acts have anything to say about it.

Photo by Ann Sciandra

Groundbreaking Ceremony “Do you know Jackson Rathbone, the guy who plays Jasper in the ‘Twilight’ movies?” asks Scott Southlea, a Penn State junior with a lip ring who doesn’t exactly look like a “Twihard,” much less like he would even know what a Twihard is.

This is getting into some serious Twilight trivia for an interview about the Groundbreaking Ceremony, a State College-based pop-punk band for which Southlea plays guitar.

“It was [Rathbone’s] band that was [also] playing,” says lead singer Jonnie Baker about one of their most memorable shows at the Crocodile Rock Café in Allentown.

who were there screaming,” Baker says with a laugh.

surprise that the band landed a coveted spot via a battle of the bands on the Ernie Ball Stage on Warped Tour 2010’s The band—rounded out by lead guitarist Scranton stop, an achievement that the Chas Myers, bassist Michael “Jett” Potter band hopes to repeat this summer. and drummer Dirk Smith—started about six years ago, says Baker, but was “Nobody makes it by sitting in their a revolving door for members for some bedroom, doing nothing,” says Southlea. time as the group struggled to settle on one sonic direction. The current lineup and pop-punk focus, though, are now solid as the band looks to sign with a label.

“Nobody makes The group, whose members are all current or recently-graduated Penn State students with the exception of Smith, seems to have finally gotten it right.

“It worked out for us because we had 300 “Twilight”-obsessed pre-teen girls

Last summer’s EP, “I Can’t Believe It’s Not Better,” shows off an infectious and genuine pop-punk sensibility. It’s no

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By Haley Blum

it by sitting in their bedroom, doing nothing.”

Zak Sobel Band These days, the Zak Sobel Band is making waves in State College and beyond. The group—made up of lead singer, songwriter, guitarist and harmonica player Zak Sobel, lead guitarist Josh Angert, percussionist Eric Weiss, bassist Clayton Blunk and keyboardist Maura Westerlund— officially formed in October 2010 and has been gaining immense popularity ever since. Sobel describes the band’s music as “folk rock” and attributes his personal musical influences to James Taylor, Bob Dylan, Nora Jones and, mainly, his father.

Sobel says the creative process of making music is pure enjoyment, but can’t quite put his finger on the secret ingredient to writing the perfect song.

“Sometimes I will write a song and I won’t know what it’s about until I’m finished,” he says. “With some songs,

By Rachel Yamin

I never fully understand what the exact message I’m trying to deliver is. I think that’s the beauty of music; sometimes it doesn’t have an explanation. Sometimes it just is.”

“Sometimes I will write a song and i won’t know what it’s about until i’m finished.”

Sobel continues to play at different venues throughout State College, both solo and with the rest of band.

Since the group first formed, their sound has advanced and evolved quite significantly.

“Our chemistry has definitely grown and it has become less work and more fun as we’ve been together longer,” Sobel says.

“Songs Joanna Likes” and “Barcelona,” Sobel’s two full-length albums, are both dedicated to his younger sister, Joanna.

“We grew up together and she is my best friend. It just seemed to make sense to dedicate the albums to her,” says Sobel.

Trust us, this is one name you do not want to forget.

WEBSITE: zaksobel.com

entertainment 27

Primary Element “Don’t Wait. life is too short to be scared. take risks.”

One day, three musically-talented young men got together in a basement after school and started playing around with some beats. Mike Wallace and twins Stanley and Stephen Spottswood, of Silver Spring, Md., realized they had an original sound. This was only the beginning.

By Tomorrow Helton-Ingram

“You can’t be complacent. You must be willing to work harder,” says Wallace.

Primary Element’s first album, “Lost in a Dream,” was decently received, but when “Hello World” came out, it was described as bigger, better and stronger.

Though they have to work hard together to make their music stand out, each person brings something different to the table. Stan is responsible for producing the music, Stephen does most of the writing and Wallce is the lyricist/voice of the group. Collectively they make music that has an alternative, integrated sound incorporating all genres of music, from hip-hop to country.

Music is now the band’s way of life.

The message of the group’s music is to believe in yourself and you can do anything.

What advice would Wallace give anyone with a dream and a strong aspiration to make music?

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“Just do it,” he says. “Don’t wait. Life is too short to be scared. Take risks.”

Follow Primary Element Website: primaryelement. bandcamp.com Twitter: @PrimaryElement Facebook: Primary Element

I SPY

You’ve been to Arts Fest every summer since your freshman year, but how much State College art have you actually seen? Haley Blum takes you on a tour of downtown treasures that are hidden in plain view.

“Soft Sounds” “The Warwick Stone” This sculpture, created by artist William Mark Pilato, brother of fellow local Lasansky and dedicated to State College artists Natalia and Michael, crafted this sculpture that is on display on the in 1988, sits near the corner of Pugh corner of West Beaver Avenue and South Street and Beaver Avenue—it’s tucked Atherton Street in front of the BioLife in next to the State Platters falafel cart.

Plasma Services Center. The artwork is Lasansky usually creates his sculptures the main attraction in an award-winning from rocks that he finds in abandoned quarries. This particular piece was a gift environmental landscape design. from the Central Pennsylvania Festival “Inspirations” of the Arts and the Knight Foundation.

Michael, another Pilato sibling, painted the mural that graces the side of the “Mosaic” Student Bookstore on Heister Street.

Mosaic master Ali Mirsky created an After investigating the State College arching piece to accent the outside of community, Michael was inspired to East Calder Way’s Looks Hair Salon include over 100 different people in using stained glass, mirror and glass beads. Local boutique Access also sports the piece, each with their own unique story, says his sister, Natalia. The mural, mosaic letters made by Mirsky on its reaching two stories high and almost 100 storefront. feet wide, was painted in 1999 and 2000.

“Centennial Pigs” Eric Berg’s iconic bronze sculpture on the 200 block of East College Avenue was inspired by a late 19th-century photograph of the same street that featured roaming pigs. The piglets are named Ed—for “education”—and Hope.

Photos by Ronald Lopez

Additional artwork information compiled by students of the Local Arts Inspiration Class from the Delta Program High School: Arthur Armington, Maggie McHugh, Cassie Schaad, Katilina Struble and Angie Zayas

entertainment 29

FLESHDECOR.COM | 332 EAST CALDER WAY, STATE COLLEGE, PA | (814) 237-0880

ABBI BEDDALL Age: 23 Year: Senior Major: Bachelor of Fine Arts in

Sculpture with a minor in Art History

Hometown: Washington, D.C. INVOLVEMENT: President of the Sculpture Club, an art club committed to artistic expression through multiple media, open to both art and non-art students.

LATEST PROJECT: An impromptu opera—performed in a combination of phrases and popular words from different cultures first in Italian, then Chinese and, finally, German—aimed at exposing cultural stereotypes and people who take themselves too seriously.

WHY PERFORMANCE ART IS BEST: “It encompasses all other media and forms of art. It’s like seeing the world in waves rather than particles.”

CAREER GOALS: Open a gallery in Berlin to display her work.

ON ARTISTS EVERYWHERE: “You have to love it and you have to be OK with not being rich right off of the bat. Keep making stuff—if you stop, it’ll stop.”

Photo by Kim Yee

SELFIMPROVEMENT psYou, you, you

SEPARATED BY

SKYLINES

sweethearts who are adapting to the distance. Now that Ashley is studying at Penn State and Mike is at the University of Pittsburgh, memories of prom and homecoming are replaced with new memories of weekend trips to each other’s campus.

Although the couple is comfortable in their relationship, Ashley has found some challenges now that she and her boyfriend are at different schools: “I forget to tell him certain little details and he will do the same, so that gets kind of annoying, but there is more strain on our relationship because we do have to work so much harder than we did before.”

Ashley and Mike maintain their long distance relationship by planning trips to see each other, giving them something to look forward to.

Melissa met Mark during her junior year at Penn State as he was finishing his final semester. After completing his undergrad, Mark moved to New York City to pursue a job.

Photo by Natalie Husick

The saying “absence makes the heart grow fonder” resounds in the minds of many couples in long distance relationships. “I think distance relationships can work for some people but I feel like Three young women talk to Valley about their experiences they both need to know where they are with love from afar. By Georgia Templeton.

A college-age couple walks hand-inhand down a sidewalk canopied by the branches of elm trees stretching outward from Old Main.

“Let’s get Chinese after this,” he suggests. She nods in approval.

This couple does not have the unique benefits and challenges of long-distance relationships, but many college-aged men and women do. Weekend road trips seem like minor obstacles for some couples, while others prefer Cupid to point his arrows at local hearts.

“We didn’t see distance as big of an obstacle as everyone else did…” Helen Pu says, referring to her two-year relationship with her boyfriend, Rob. “When other people heard about our relationship they’d say, ‘That is never going to work, like who are you kidding, you are in college you want to live it up.’”

the couple decided to continue their relationship even though they were far apart.

“The way that I kind of see longdistance relationships is not that you have to be completely dependent on that person,” Helen says as she glances out the window as the evening shadows move over Garner Street, “it’s kind of like you can live your own life and you have your own goals and you have your own set of friends and at the same time you have that relationship.”

Helen’s advice for a successful longdistance relationship is to stabilize independence and maintain a healthy amount of communication.

During the fall 2010 semester, Ashley Cummings arrived in the city of Pittsburgh after a three-hour bus ride from State College. The bubbly Penn State freshman was greeted at the terminal by her boyfriend of three years, who gave her a bouquet of flowers.

Helen met Rob her freshman year at Penn State and a year later they began dating. When Rob transferred to Cornell to study Hotel Administration,

Ashley and Mike are high school

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Spring 2011

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going when they go into the distance relationship,” Melissa says.

After several trips from State College to New York, Melissa began to question her relationship with Mark, feeling as if she were putting forth more effort to keep the spark alive and finding herself bored and restless. Eventually, the traveling began to take a toll on her.

After a weekend together, Mark broke up with her.

“I believe that we were trying to do a distance relationship so that we could make the relationship last longer.”

Melissa explains. “The hardest part about a breakup after a long-distance relationship is you are used to them not being physically there but you are not used to them not being emotionally there.”

Long-distance relationships create unique situations that can cause a relationship to flourish or flounder. For some they provide an opportunity to gain independence while enjoying the support a relationship provides, while for others there are chances to figure out what is meant to be.

NO MORE

LAZY SUMMERS When school lets out, many of us just want to relax and take time to breathe, but summer is the perfect time to spice up your life and try something new. From simple things you can do in your own home to traveling across the world, Kathleen Gormley has the perfect summer agenda for Valley readers.

Get a head start on academics or pursue your dream job.

Instead of hanging around the house all summer, why not take some classes and get a few credits out of the way?

Experience Happy Valley from a new perspective by living here when things are much calmer than they are during the fall and spring semesters. Summer classes last 12 weeks or are split into 2 sessions of 6 weeks. The deadlines for registration are May 15 and June 26.

Session I- 12 weeks; May 16-August 10 Session II- 6 weeks; May 16-June 24 Session III- 6 weeks; June 29-August 10 Summer is also the best time to snag those savvy internships that will help build your résumé. The website summerinternships.com guarantees to place 99% of students in both national and international programs that include housing, transportation, interview coaching and organized weekend activities. Whether you’re tearing up the streets of the Big Apple or wishing you had a British accent in London, this could be the experience of a lifetime where you can gain knowledge and network in your field.

Photo by Natalie Husick

Go global.

Stay local.

Adventurous types can immerse themselves in a completely different culture by going on a fourweek volunteer travel excursion.

International Student Volunteers runs programs all throughout the summer to places like Australia, New Zealand, Thailand, South Africa and Costa Rica that are filled with daring activities and meaningful volunteer work.

If you don’t feel like going overseas or spending a lot of money, check out Habitat for Humanity, where you can build houses, restore neighborhoods and teach children. You’ll get the opportunity to meet new people and give back to the community. Doing something meaningful before heading into the next school year is a great way to start the semester off on the right foot.

If you’re feeling spontaneous, try learning new creative skills in a beautiful foreign country. The Mosaic Art School in Ravenna, Italy offers fiveday mosaic-making classes over the summer, taught by professionals and open to all experience levels. There are many places to stay within the artistic city and the beaches of the Adriatic coast are close by. For more information, see sira.it/mosaic/courses.htm.

Penn State also holds a sprint triathlon every year on July 3 that includes a 750-meter swim in the outdoor pool, a 12.4-mile bike ride and a 3.1-mile run. Even if you’ve never done one before, it’s a great way to get your heart pumping…and the training will also keep you occupied! self-improvement 33

Beauty is only

(PHOTOSHOPPED)

Skin-Deep

Photos by Julianna O’Malley

What happens when photographers and graphic designers unite to edit an average person into a demigoddess? Kaitlyn Knopp explores how Photoshopped beauty can sometimes take an ugly turn.

Flipping through covers of ELLE, Vogue and Marie Claire, Ben Kaminski (sophomore, psychology) looks at the celebrity women carefully before explaining how he’d feel if he saw them at a party.

“I’d probably look at her a lot,” he says. “[But] I wouldn’t feel I could approach her.”

Looking through the magazines, he comes to shots of celebrity women prior to being Photoshopped, followed by the resulting makeovers from photo editors.

“They do so much stuff to make it look more appealing,” Ben says, eyes wide, observing the natural wrinkles and blemishes.

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What do billboards, magazines and advertisements inundated with leanlimbed, glossy-haired, big-eyed and pouty-lipped goddesses tell women, though? Is that what Kate Winslet, Keira Knightley, Britney Spears, Jessica Simpson and Kim Kardashian—who all had photos edited and complained about the edits—want women to see?

Flawless beauty in media has many women protesting. Former Miss World and 37-year-old Indian actress Aishwarya Rai was on the cover of ELLE India last December with notably lightened skin, causing an outrage.

The same happened to “Precious” star, Gabourey Sidibe in a different issue of ELLE around the same time.

The result was accusations of racism and poor ethical decision-making. In ELLE’s only response, the magazine stated that nothing extraordinary was done to the photos.

With today’s technology, though, extraordinary things are done to photos. Photo editors can elongate Spring 2011

necks, enlarge lips and eyes, airbrush skin, crop excess skin and weight, erase wrinkles and stray hairs, alter teeth and eye color and even piece together different bodies.

Ann Dumas, a professor who teaches COMM 205 (Women, Minorities and Media), explains that photo alteration is a sometimes-misleading art.

“One of the things Photoshop does in this process, is it allows still images to be taken from the real world in some way, and allows the photo editor to alter and reconstruct it as they see fit,” Dumas says. “I don’t see that as a negative. I see that as a new medium for journalists and artists.”

“Where the problem comes in is when people mistake a highly-constructed image for a truth of reality,” Dumas says.

“They think, ‘If I want to be that happy, or that attractive, I have to be like that.’”

“It could be [a] good or bad thing–maybe people see that and go to the gym more,” Kaminski says. “But it’s also not realistic.”

Love

CRAZY FOR Valley readers share the crazy things they’ve done for love—who says that romance is dead?

By Anita Oh

“The night before my crush left

“I told my crush we were meeting

“I liked this girl who had a boy-

for her freshman year in college, I

up with a bunch of our friends to

friend, so I would drive her three

left her a trail of rose petals from

go midnight bowling and she was

hours to the airport just so that

her front door to her mailbox. It

so confused when no one showed.

she could get on a flight to see

led her to a white-gold necklace.”

I just wanted to get her alone so I

him.” –Sam O., 21

–Calvin P., 20

could ask her out!” –Alex M., 18

“I’m currently waiting two years with no contact or communication other than e-mail with my boyfriend, who is serving on a mission trip in Germany for his church.” –Megan H., 20

“I once paid $500 to fix my car after my boyfriend crashed it into a wall. He told me he was going to pay me back for half of what I paid. To this day, I still have not seen that $250!” –Patrese D., 20 Photo by Michelle Amann

“I saved my crush’s Kleenex!” –Megan L., 19

“It’s nothing crazy if it’s done for love.”

–Devin D., 19

“In high school, I found a note from

“One night in the beginning of my

my crush on my car that asked me

freshman year, I was at an apart-

to a winter dance and to meet him

ment party on Atherton Street.

at the football field. I was trying to

My friend called and said she was

walk all cool and sexy, but it was

lost near the Bryce Jordan Center.

icy. I slipped, went into a split and

I sprinted 3 miles just to get her

ripped my pants from my knee to

back to her dorm safely.”

the crotch. He didn’t ask me.”

–Paul S., 20

–Natalie H., 19

self-improvement 35

THE LOST ART OF THE

THANK YOU NOTE

Somewhere between texting, Twittering and Facebooking, the art of a handwritten thank-you note has been all but forgotten.

In this job market, one of the best ways you can make yourself stand out to prospective employers is sending a thank-you letter.

By Emily Grier

DO write about five or six sentences.

There’s no need to fill up the entire card, but be sure to include an introduction with a few brief details about what you are thanking them for and a closing line paying a sincere compliment for their time, business lunch, etc.

DON’T use the same template for every note. Let’s face it: It’s pretty easy to tell the difference between a genuine note of appreciation and a fill-in-the-blank response. Sending an impersonal note can be worse than not sending one at all.

WHAT EVERY-

BODY

’S

REALLY SAYING They say it’s not what you say, but how you say it. Too many times, though, the perfect thing to say can’t be articulated. Anita Oh explores the ways people really express themselves without saying anything at all.

Office Hours with Your Professor: Foot Position According to Joe Navarro, a retired FBI agent, your feet are the most honest part of your body. Usually, wherever your feet are facing best indicates what you’re interested in. If your feet are facing the door, you are most likely uninterested in what your professor has to say and would like to leave. If your feet are facing your professor, you are actively engaged in the conversation.

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DO express your enthusiasm! If you sincerely love something about the position you interviewed for, don’t be afraid to express your special interest.

Eagerness and enthusiasm are always a plus.

DON’T rely on an e-mail as your primary form of thank you. Sending an e-mail is only appropriate if it is preceding a handwritten thank-you note.

DO still send a note even if you think you’ve waited too long. Gratitude is always appreciated, even if it’s slightly overdue.

On a Date: Mirroring Your Date’s Movements You can tell when you’ve really hit it off with someone–the connection is clear.

What may not be so clear, however, is how your body responds to that connection. A 2009 study by Nicolas Guéguen, a professor at the University of South Brittany in France, showed that mimicking your date’s movements could make you seem more attractive. If your date leans in or crosses his or her legs, do the same.

During a Job Interview: Maintaining Eye Contact

Mingling on a Friday Night: Avoid a Closed Body

A study by Robert Half International, a professional staffing firm, confirmed that employers decide in less than ten minutes whether they will hire you or not. Make sure you make good eye contact with your interviewer–don’t over-compensate and stare, but look up enough to show attentiveness and interest.

Closing off your body by crossing your arms or legs sends a negative vibe to the people around you. Even if you don’t realize it, guarding your body comes off as defensive or uninterested, or as if you have something to hide.

Spring 2011

MISREADING

SIGNALS Valley gets to the bottom of the notorious “friend” zone.

By Ali Prescott

“Women read much more into body language than men do. Men are not as conscious of their body or the signals they give off,” says Cheryl Dellasega, GNP, Ph.D, a professor of humanities in the Penn State College of Medicine and a women’s studies professor.

“Seventy-five percent of women’s communication is through body language,” she says.

Body language confusion plays a role on many levels, no matter which party you represent. A little flick of the hair here and there or a touch on the arm can mean many things. It becomes a mess when people don’t realize they’re giving off the wrong signals to a person they aren’t interested in.

“I get confused when they ask for your number but they don’t call you, or if they say they want to hang out but they never do,” says Holly R. (seniorcommunication science disorders).

There are numerous reasons why people decide it’s better not to date someone they may be attracted to. Most people agree that losing a friendship is number one, although there are other reasons.

“I think it’s because people don’t feel they are ready for a relationship or both people want different things,” says Beth P. (senior-crime, law and justice).

Photo by Lindsay Lipovich

“I think he likes me, but I’m not sure.”

How many times have you heard this statement? Guys and girls often think they’re reading someone’s signals perfectly, but are then confused when they hear the words, “I think we should just be friends.”

The “friend zone” arises when one person is interested in another person romantically, while he or she sees the other as just a friend.

Being just friends has its benefits, but for many people it presents a problem when they want more out of the relationship.

How does the friend zone even happen?

Part of the problem has to do with misreading signals. Don’t consider the friend zone a death sentence because, it’s possible to get out of it or even avoid it altogether. Being conscious of your body language is a good way to avoid miscommunication.

“I think some people like dating around and don’t want to settle down,” says Holly.

The “friend zone” is not the end of the world. In fact, if you think you’re being put into it and you don’t want to be, speak up.

“It depends on what you want out of life and if you’re a risk taker. You need to decide if you are satisfied with having the friendship. If you are really interested in the person, you need to tell them that it isn’t enough,” says Dellasega. self-improvement 37

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Jessica Michele Ramos Age: 22 Year: Senior Hometown: Augusta, Ga. Major: Public Relations Leadership: President of the College of Communications’ Asian/ Hispanic/African/Native American Student Organization Organization: “AHANA was created to celebrate the many cultural heritages within the College of Communications. We plan programs for each heritage month and other activities that allow us to explore other cultures and backgrounds. At each program, we have an industry professional from that specific heritage speak. We learn about how their heritage has helped them in their career and any obstacles they have had to overcome because of it.”

Involvement: “I chose to get involved because I feel that understanding multiple cultures is very important in order to succeed in both life and the professional world. Not only am I becoming more culturally aware, but I’m also helping others do the same.”

Advice: “I’ve learned that it is very

important to make great friends and develop solid connections with Penn State faculty. They’re your support system while you’re away from home and will most likely continue to be there for you even after you graduate.”

Photo by Kim Yee

CULTURE &DIVERSITY cultures 101

INSIDE A CULTURAL CORNERSTONE

W

ith its array

of films,

musicians and performances, the State Theatre offers students a slice of culture that’s hard to resist.

By Chris Mouser Photos by Kim Yee

Warner Brothers Studios opened a one-screen movie house in downtown State College in 1938, when Bette Davis graced the screen and a ticket was just thirty-five cents. Fast forward to 2011, and The State Theatre has grown into a cultural institution that proudly celebrates the local arts.

“It’s a stage for local performers to feature the arts in a house that has a lot of the state-of-the-art equipment needed for those kinds of productions,” says Kristy Cyone, the marketing director for the State Theatre.

After re-opening in 2006 following a five-million-dollar renovation, the State Theatre was reinvigorated, but they weren’t sure what to expect. No one else was doing what they were doing—

trying to be a community of performing arts in a college town.

In order to give local performers a stage, Cyone says the theatre depends on revenue from films, musicians and performing artists on a more national scale. The theatre takes the “art house” route, showing independent, documentary and foreign films to break into an otherwise-untapped market.

“No one else does it,” Cyone says.

“People have asked for those kinds of movies, that culture, and it’s a great venue for it. I just don’t think it would feel the same if you came here to see Harry Potter—it’s not that kind of place.”

But it is the kind of place for an intimate concert or show, with popular bands and musicians hitting the stage every year in a venue that artists laud for the opportunity it provides them to interact with fans.

However, behind closed doors, Cyone says that “what seems like a seamless operation never is.” Musician Shawn Colvin performed in the fall, but not before one of the tuners on her Gibson guitar broke. And she needed that specific guitar to go on with the show, a guitar that no local stores had.

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Sure enough, a staff member’s father had that exact same model, and Colvin ended up strumming a guitar that had been in a basement just an hour before.

Spring 2011

Harry Zimbler, the recently-appointed executive director, applauds the efforts of those involved with the State Theatre but says he wants to get back to the original mission.

“I see a stronger, more vibrant communitybased theatre than there is now,” says Zimbler, who began his position in January. “The people who started it had a great vision and foundation, and now it’s our job to take it to the next level. And I think we’ll do that.”

SUMMERTIME IN THE

U.S. Virgin Islands Photos by Kelsey Stratton

Many college students start thinking about warm-weather vacations as soon as the first snowstorm hits.

But if you haven’t quite pinpointed a place to visit, how does a week of tropical relaxation in the U.S. Virgin Islands sound?

By Kyra Nelson Situated at the top of the arc of the Caribbean islands, the Virgin Islands are positioned between the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. They are made up of four main islands: St. Thomas, St. John, St. Croix and the newest addition, Water Island. Each boasts white sand beaches, clear water, breathtaking landscapes and activities like kayaking and scuba diving.

In St. Croix, visitors can tour Buck Island Reef, the only underwater United States national monument.

Afterward, they can stop by Cramer Park, a picnic area by day and outdoor bar by night.

or on their own, making their way “I like the nightlife and Ride the View,” to a historical site, like the ruins of says Jarell Mason, a sophomore majoring Annaberg Sugar Mill, or a hidden beach. in electrical engineering at Penn State.

He is both a native and resident of St. St. Thomas offers some of everything: Thomas. (Ride the View is the St. Thomas shopping in the USVI capital of Skyride, an attraction that gives tourists Charlotte Amalie, fine dining, golfing, an aerial view of the island.) underwater excursions and much more.

St. Thomas is also home to Megan’s “People can also go parasailing, boogie Bay, one of the top ten most beautiful boarding and jet skiing,” Mason says. beaches in the world, according to National Geographic.

To save money, book your vacation early and look for deals that include the costs Water Island, accessible through the of both airfare and lodging. Also, plan to St. Thomas airport, offers activities travel with at least three other people to like bike tours, fishing, dining at keep prices low. For example, a week’s Honeymoon Bay and exploration of stay at St. Thomas’s Best Western Carib local historical sites.

Beach Resort with a round-trip plane ticket on US Airways costs approximately $851 per person for a group of four on Orbitz.com. Remember, the more the merrier…and cheaper!

St. John vacationers will enjoy hiking the scenic trails of the U.S. Virgin Islands National Park. Tourists have the option of hiking with a guide

Virgin

Island

s

culture & diversity 41

A Long Way FROM

HOME “I was staring in shock, because there Abetare Fazliu’s story has were dead people, hurt people all over the makings of a movie the place,” says Fazliu. “They had a gun to my dad’s head, asking for all his straight out of Hollywood. money.

He had hid 20 Deutsche Mark The only difference? Her in a little pocket in his jeans, but he told story is as real as they come him he didn’t have anything. The Serbs and is, at times, unbelievable. said if they found one penny in his pocket, they would kill him.”

By Christine Mouser

Penn State senior Abetare Fazliu grew up in the war-torn country of Kosovo, in the capital city of Pristina, with her parents, two brothers and sister. The country had been host to an enduring civil war between the Serbians and Albanians that reached its boiling point in 1999.

“It seemed as if the world was ending,” says Fazliu, an Albanian. “The war was getting more and more violent each day. We would watch people getting massacred on TV. No one seemed to care enough to come save us and put an end to a war that should have never happened.”

When she was in the fourth grade, the war escalated and her family was forced to leave their home. Once they had, the Serbians stole all of their valuables, including her mother’s cherished necklace from her own father, who had passed away.

A few blocks down the road, the guards had begun to separate the men and women. The guards held back her father, and as her mother and siblings began to leave, Fazliu fell to the ground by the tire of her car.

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With a gun to his head, Fazliu’s father pushed her with his foot, urging her to go find her mother. Straggling away, she saw an old man getting beaten severely with the back of a gun, crying for his life.

Her father grabbed her from behind.

The pair walked for at least four hours to the train station, where they finally caught up with the rest of the family.

“I felt so numb, we were all just sitting there soaked from rain,” says Fazliu, with disbelief in her eyes. “If I close my eyes and think about it, I can still hear the screaming and crying.”

Cold, wet and hungry, the family took refuge under a tarp, where Fazliu’s mother melted snow for her hungry baby to drink. Shortly after, the Serbs came around with news: There were three trains coming. If you got on one you were in luck. If not, too bad.

The first and second trains came.

Instantly, hordes of people were running and shoving to make them.

Fazliu was sickened, outraged that “some other person could force them to come to that point.”

Hours later, their last chance came.

Fazliu’s father jumped onto the train while it was still moving, separating Spring 2011

himself from the family. Squeezing into a tiny cabin filled with 24 people, Fazliu screamed for her father, who eventually found her, and the family pulled him in through a tiny window.

But it wasn’t over yet. The family overheard the Serbians saying that NATO, the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, was bombing Serbian train stations. The Serbians decided to stop the train at one of them, so that NATO would mistakenly bomb the Albanians.

Their train was stopped close to four hours. Fazliu looked to her dad, who she had never seen cry before. His eyes filled with tears, and at that point, she thought she was going to die.

“I looked at him…” Fazliu says, pausing and placing her hands over her face.

“He said, ‘You’re not going to die, you have so much ahead of you. You’re going to go to high school, you’re going to go to college, get married’... he did for me what no one could. I feel like he wanted me to have that picture in my head, because if I died, at least I had that image of how my life would have been.”

The train started moving again, and they ended up on the border of Macedonia and Kosovo. At the border, a guard realized that her six-month-old brother didn’t have a passport. After her father pleaded with the guard, he told them that they all could cross the border except for her father. So her parents came up with a plan. Her father approached the guard and told him he was crossing the border to fill up his son’s bottle. With the gaurd’s approval,

After three weeks of living in camps, Fazliu and her family were on their way to the United States, a place, Fazliu had imagined, that had toys on the streets and money in the trees—the American dream.

But, as with most dreams, reality didn’t quite match. In 1999, Fazliu and her family moved to Spring Mills, Pa. with no knowledge of the English language.

At school, she and her siblings were bullied on a daily basis. Her brother was severely beaten up and she was pushed into lockers and chastised for being a Muslim.

But her dreams remained unchanged.

She wanted college, everything her dad had envisioned for her. And Penn State was where she belonged.

“

“

he crossed and never looked back. A sense of relief washed over Fazliu. They were going to be OK.

If I close my eyes and think about it, I can still hear the screaming and crying.

“People say, ‘Your story is so sad, you’re so inspiring,’” says Fazliu. “I don’t tell my story for pity. I tell it for people to realize how good they have it. I probably wasn’t even supposed to be alive today. I got a second chance at life, and I’m not letting another human being get in my way of getting where I want to go.”

While it hasn’t always been smooth sailing here, things are getting better.

Fazliu plans on using her unwavering drive and broadcast journalism major to reach people all over the country.

“I want to have a show and go around the world and give those little kids, the kid that I was, a chance for their voice to be heard,” Fazliu says, “…those kids that never got the chance that I did.”

Photo by Kim Yee

NOT-ALWAYS-SO-

HAPPY

VALLEY At Penn State, it’s pretty easy to forget about serious problems when football fever rages and endless parties pop up on any given night. But even in this well-preserved bubble, the Valley isn’t always so happy.

By Christine Mouser

Being a part of the exclusive Penn State family comes with the responsibility to be there for one another. When one of our own falls down, we never feel closer or more a part of something bigger than us. In that case, suicide awareness and prevention, then, have never been more important. Suicide has become an epidemic that is the second leading cause of death among college students.

Mary Anne Knapp, the outreach and consultation coordinator for CAPS (Penn State’s Counseling and Psychological Services) says that between one and three suicides occur every year at University Park, while there are up to 100-200 suicide attempts for every completion in the college population.

Depression, bipolar disorder and substance abuse are key factors among all age groups. But why are college students at such a high risk for suicide?

“Young adults in college are facing many life changes and potential losses at a time when they haven’t developed coping skills or identities separate from academic performances and relationships,” says Knapp. “If things go wrong in relationships or academics,

Photo by Lindsay Lipovich

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Spring 2011

some feel vulnerable and alone with their grief and confusion. They can mistakenly feel like they’re failures at life.”

“Even if it’s not serious, there’s nothing wrong with talking to someone who wants to help you out.”

This sense of failure has surely touched many students’ lives. It’s a feeling that can be overwhelming, but most students aren’t willing to talk about it or any other problems they may be facing. Most hold these issues deep inside, unwilling to seek help for fear of looking weak. In some cases, avoiding that stigma can prove deadly.

Student Body President Christian Ragland hopes to destroy the misconceptions and implores students to take full advantage of CAPS before it’s too late.

“Even if it’s not serious, there’s nothing wrong with talking to someone who wants to help you out,” says Ragland, a senior majoring in political science and sociology. “A lot of times, we wait until the last minute, and we don’t necessarily get the help that we need when we should get it.”

Growing up in south Jersey, Ragland was no stranger to suicide. Now, as a student leader, he wants to start a campaign among students to dispel fear of accepting Penn State’s counseling and psychological services.

two being college students. This string of unfortunate deaths spurred people across the nation to take action.

One particularly high-profile movement was the “It Gets Better Project,” a campaign designed to give hope to young adults and teens facing harassment due to their sexual orientation. Celebrities, activists, politicians and the public have uploaded more than 10,000 videos promising that things will get better, that nothing is worth taking your life over.

Suicide can be prevented. Knapp says that 30 percent of the students who visit CAPS report wanting to end their lives. She says that completed suicide is relatively rare among young adults, but there are many people who are at risk.

What are some warning signs to look out for?

Knapp says to take all statements regarding suicide seriously, even if you think they are a joke. Question the individual to see where his or her head is. In addition, if you know of someone who is depressed or recently experienced a loss, let him or her know that you’re there to talk.

Jeremy Lamaster, an intern at the LGBT Student Resource Center, says that LGBT students committing suicide or suffering from depression isn’t a new “[Watch for students who] give away phenomenon. their possessions, stop attending to their responsibilities or start “It’s really a problem for everyone—it’s stockpiling pills to secure the means for not an LGBT-specific issue,” says suicide,” she says, because these are all Lamaster, a senior majoring in biology red flags. and women’s studies. “But I think it’s a good thing that people sort of recognize If you notice any of this behavior, don’t how the oppression of a sexual minority hesitate to refer the individual to a affects individuals and how it can lead mental health service that can help. If to things like this.” there is an immediate threat of suicide, call a crisis line or 911. Being educated Knapp says that LGBT individuals can and informed about suicide and often feel “demoralized or alone” if prevention may help save a life. Visit they can’t find a support system that save.org for further information. will help them discover their identities.

Without that social support system, these individuals may believe suicide is their only option.

But the LGBT Student Resource Center is a great alternative, Lamaster says. Not only is it a safe place where students can come to talk, but it also stands in as a second family—a family many may need when their own no longer accept them.

It took Lamaster nearly three years at Penn State to enter the Resource Center—or even come out—which was, he says one of the scariest moments of his life. Through his involvement with the Resource Center, he believes the only way change will happen is through allies, especially students who don’t identify as LGBT.

“With my role of student body president, I think it’s very crucial that student leaders don’t throw this issue under the rug,” he says. “It may not have the same amount of enthusiasm around campus as dangerous drinking or sexual assault, but these things do happen. Especially “It’s living your day-to-day life and this year, there’ve been some tragedies being more supportive,” Lamaster says. within the LGBT [Lesbian, Gay, “One of the easiest ways to do that is Bisexual and Transgender] community.” through your language and realizing the effect your words might have on This past September, no less than six someone else.” suicides were reported in a single month, all reportedly LGBT individuals,

IMPORTANT NUMBERS

For emergency services, call 911.

CAPS: (814) 863-0395 Centre County CAN HELP Line: 1-800-643-5432 Community Help Centre: (814) 235-1890 National Suicide Prevention Hotline: 1-800273-8255 LGBT Student Resource Center (not an emergency number): (814) 863-1248 or email LGBT@psu. edu for confidential correspondence.

culture & diversity 45

DEAR OLD STATE With so many legends and myths about Penn State, how do you know which are true and which are simply products of the rumor mill? Rachel Yamin takes a deeper look into these old tales about our university.

Photos by Ann Sciandra

As Penn State students, we all know the lyrics to the Alma Mater, our favorite flavor of Creamery ice cream and how many football games Joe Paterno has won. However, many of us probably know very little about the truth to the rumors that have been formulated about Dear Old State throughout the years.

First, we will dive into a tradition that has its roots deeply embedded in a mythological tale. This common misconception believes that the word “Nittany” is derived from a real princess named Nita-nee who once lived in central Pennsylvania as a member of a Native American tribe. However, the word actually comes from author and publisher Henry W. Shoemaker.

His fictional character, Princess Nitanee, was invented to serve as the main personality in several of his tales. The connotation of this name refers to a “single mountain” or “barrier against the wind”—you guessed it: Mount Nittany.

Aside from the fact that this valley is always happy, how was the term “Happy Valley” coined? State College was originally given this nickname during the Great Depression since the area was not greatly affected by the economic slump. In addition, many even consider State College to be “recession proof.” In reality, University Park and the State College area are located in the heart of Nittany Valley.

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Ever hear the common claim that there are no sorority houses at PSU because of an old Pennsylvania law defining such a dwelling as a brothel? This theory has spread like wildfire among students and alumni. However, it too is merely a product of the rumor mill.

Back in the day, many sororities resided in sorority houses on campus but relocated into newer and nicer suites in residence halls soon after World War II. The high pricing of off-campus housing was enough to make sororities remain in these new convenient suites.

While it is true that thousands of students and alumni invade Beaver Stadium on fall weekends, the PSU football players did not always battle in this stadium. The Nittany Lion’s first permanent football residence actually took place in a 500-seat structure between present-day Osmond and Frear Laboratories at a placed dubbed Beaver Field. Then, in 1909, New Beaver Field opened near Rec Hall (next to present day Nittany Parking Deck) and served as the football stadium until 1960, when the arena was broken down into 700 pieces and reassembled a mile across campus. With the relocation to the east end of campus and the addition of 16,000 seats, Beaver Stadium became the new official home of Penn State football.

Spring 2011

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uilding ridges

Written by Haley Blum Photos by Ann Sciandra Clothing provided by Flesh DĂŠcor Hair and makeup by Looks Salon

T

he ice cream social just wasn’t “There was this Israeli woman who doing it for Michal Berns. So worked in the [Hillel] office and she she walked out. kept in touch with me and I kept in touch with her—one Israeli always “I absolutely hated it and I knows another Israeli,” says Berns. The felt so unwelcome and I didn’t know woman convinced Berns to give Hillel anybody,” says Berns of the first Penn another try, and to run unopposed for State Hillel event that she attended as a the engagement chair position on the freshman. student board. Berns agreed.

That’s not to say that Berns, who will graduate from Penn State this May with two terms as Hillel president on her résumé, is someone who quits and mopes when things aren’t going her way.

Instead, if she doesn’t like something, she’ll say it to your face—and you can bet she’s going to find a way to make it better. And if it’s Penn State Hillel, the organization for Jewish life on campus, she’s going make it way better.

When Berns started her first semester at University Park in 2007, “it was back when Hillel was still recreating itself and reforming,” she says.

An Israeli who grew up in a modern orthodox Jewish household and community, she says she felt lonely as a freshman and was looking for a way to connect to Jewish life on her new campus.

“She worked to create programs and opportunities for uninvolved students to make them feel welcome at Hillel events,” says Aaron Kaufman, executive director for Penn State Hillel. “Her being Israeli, it’s definitely played a part in us connecting to the Israeli students on campus and bringing a global perspective to Jewish life, which is wonderful.”

D

uring that year, we were averaging about 25 to 40 people per Shabbat dinner,” Berns says. The free, ritual dinner, which takes place every Friday night, is one of the organization’s larger events.

Determined to get even more involved, Berns ran and was elected president during her sophomore year. She won the same election again the next

year. By the end of her two terms, the number of students attending the weekly Shabbat dinners tripled.

“It became this non-stop race or challenge for me—how much better can we get it to be? How many more students can we get involved with the organization? And that was something that was really exciting for me,” Berns says.

Other Hillel campus branches across the nation began to contact Berns for advice.

“I met with the president of Syracuse Hillel several times and he said to me, ‘How do you guys do your election, how do you guys do this program?’” she says.

“It was cool to be seen as this mentor for other Hillels—we became this type of brand name for Hillel.”

However, one area in which Penn State Hillel fell short compared to other schools was office space. As a type of hybrid student organization that employs a small staff of adults, Hillel was getting a bit cramped in its four assigned offices in the Pasquerilla Spiritual Center.

“Penn State Hillel is the only Hillel in the Big Ten schools that does not have its own state-of-the-art facility, its own building,” Berns says.

A

fter completing her second presidential term, Berns wanted to stay closely involved with the organization and fix the space problem. As the organization’s Capital Campaign intern, she has done both.

In February, Penn State Hillel officially bought land on the corner of Beaver Avenue and Garner Avenue where a two-story, 15,000- to 17,000-square-foot building will most likely be standing by the fall of 2013. Berns has met with donors to begin raising money for the project. The site will eventually be a spot for Hillel to hold meetings, events, weddings, and Bar and Bat Mitzvahs.

The building will be open to Penn State students and the community, and not just to Jewish groups, Berns says.

“The tricky part is going to be the kitchen, since everything has to be kept kosher if people bring in their own food,” she says. “But those are all the things that are going to be worked out.”

Berns, a media law and policy major with an art history minor, has a schedule that makes it seem as though she sleeps in HUB chairs and has a personal relationship with every librarian in Pattee and Paterno. She’s a member of the Student Alcohol Advisory Committee, the liaison for the American Israel Public Affairs Committee, a Fresh Start student leader and has also served as a Homecoming co-fundraising captain.

“Michal goes into things and puts all of her effort and energy into it and gets something out of it,” says professor Michelle Rodino-Colocino, Ph.D. “She absorbs it all and does something with it.”

After taking Rodino-Colocino’s honors section of COMM 411 (Cultural Aspects of Mass Media) in the fall of 2010, Berns has worked with the professor on research and also serves as a peer mentor for the Spring 2011 sections of COMM 411.

“She has been just a dynamo,” RodinoColocino says. “By talking to Michal, I feel like I have my hand on the pulse of student life at Penn State. She opens me up to a lot of aspects of student life that I wouldn’t know about as a faculty member.”

Rodino-Colocino has a theory on how Berns can be so involved with so many activities: “Michal must have more time in the day than other people do,” she says with a laugh.

Berns also has served as the Student Life and Diversity Director of UPUA, a leadership position that required her to work closely with UPUA President Christian Ragland.

After getting to know Berns when he reached out to Hillel during his presidential campaign, Ragland says that she was the only person he could think of to fill the position.

“She knows how to get things done no matter what situation she’s put in or obstacles she faces,” says Ragland.

In addition, as an international student, Berns places high importance on diversity and acceptance.

She has had someone ask where her horns are, referring a mistranslation of the Bible in which Moses was depicted

with horns. “To have someone react like that to you, it’s beyond offending someone. You really belittle someone beyond belief with just simple words.”

I

makes sure to mention, though, that she “didn’t grow up in a bad area, and it wasn’t a bad life whatsoever. People grow up in certain ways and that’s how I was brought up.”

B

t’s hard at first glance, or even after talking to Berns at length, to eing brought up in Israel also know that she is not American. means that military service She speaks English fluently, is mandatory for eighteendespite it being her second year-olds, both male and language, although she admits that she female. Berns was supposed sometimes translates multiple-choice to be drafted into a combat unit, along questions into Hebrew in the margins with her friends, but she came to the of exams to better understand them.

United States for college instead.

But growing up in Israel in a modern orthodox Jewish community, Berns’ “Six weeks before my draft date, I childhood and teenage years were not decided [that was] not what I wanted like those of the typical Penn Stater. She to do and I wanted to move to America kept kosher and had to wear at least to be with my mom,” she says. “But I a knee-length skirt and sleeves that have friends who still don’t talk to me reached the middle of her upper arm. because I didn’t go into the army.”

Like other teenagers, though, she and her friends found ways to express their Her parents had divorced when she personal style. was younger, and her mother moved to Philadelphia nine years ago. Although Penn State wasn’t Berns’ first choice— “We were trying to be the sneaky girls she had wanted to attend Arcadia and [we would] always wear pants University to study interior design— under our skirts,” instead of tights, she her mother insisted that she come to says.

University Park.

“She knows how to get things done no matter what situation she’s put in or obstacles she faces” Berns played sports in high school— basketball, swimming, dance, flag football, gymnastics and track and field, among others. At Penn State, she still finds the time to hit the gym at least three days a week.

However, while there are many similarities between teenage life in Israel and America, bombings are not one of them. Berns recalls a specific morning in high school in which a public transit bus was bombed. Many of her classmates, including her best friend, were on it.

“We kept calling her [Berns’ friend], calling her, calling her, but when this situation happens all phones are down,” she says. “We finally reach her, and it turns out she saw it happen. Turns out that she had just missed it.” Berns says that incidents like this taught her about the unpredictability of life. She

She didn’t like it here at first. But as she got more involved, campus life slowly started to get better. The guilt, though, of not enlisting back home still affects her.

“I’ll be honest with you, not going into the army has been the biggest regret of my life because of the pride that Israeli citizens hold that everyone goes into the army. Everyone protects the country,” she says. “Understanding that I didn’t go into the army still kills me to this day, but I know I can’t look back and regret. And I think that’s the reason why I became extremely involved with Hillel. More work needs to be done in the Jewish community around the world rather than just in Israel.”

B

erns has gone above and far beyond her call of duty at Penn State, working to serve not just Jewish but all Penn State students.

And we think that’s something to be proud of.

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FIRST FASHION MEMORY:

“My first awareness of fashion and its possibilities came hand-in-hand with my Barbie dolls when I was little. I was never really satisfied with the outfits as they came. I was always making skirts into dresses and playing with different combination of accessories. I would even forgo the Barbie clothes altogether and fashion wedding dresses out of Kleenex and tissue paper.”

GROWING UP IN DETROIT:

“Detroit is a unique place. It has a bad rap but I think if people gave it a chance and spent some time there they’d see that it’s no scarier than any other city and it’s full of interesting people who want to make it better.”

DREAM CAREER: “A dream

show for me is one that challenges my creativity and one where I get to collaborate with a great director, other designers and the performers. If I had to pick a script, I’d love to design ‘Threepenny Opera’ or ‘Marat/Sade.’”

COSTUME DESIGNERS: “It’s not enough to look at paintings and fashion magazines and catalogues. We have to be excellent researchers.”

Photo by Ann Sciandra

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WORKING in

style

Learn how some girls are putting their love of fashion to work! Join Michelle Turli as she takes a behind-the-seams look at internships from two popular brands: Victoria’s Secret PINK and American Eagle Outfitters.

BRAND: American Eagle Outfitters INTERN: Brianna Rizzo, Penn State ‘11 TYPE OF INTERNSHIP: Human Resources / Public Relations TIME PERIOD: Summer Landing the Internship: “Do your research! As I worked for American Eagle (AE) in high school, my love for the brand continued to grow. When I entered college, I decided to take this passion a step further by researching internship opportunities offered by AE. After discovering when AE would be recruiting on Penn State’s campus, I submitted my résumé and information, hoping to land a position.”

On the Job: “Though I worked in the human resources department, the internship touched on public relations as well. Some of my tasks included interviewing and recruiting full-time employees in buying, allocation and social media.”

Learning the Ropes: “I gained an inside perspective on what makes someone a good candidate in a job interview and what to look for in a

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résumé. I also gained communications experience, as I helped write press releases, assisted in filming an intern recruitment video and planned events for all 36 interns.”

Work Before Play—Why an internship may be important for those looking to work in the fashion industry: “Girls don’t always understand how the fashion industry really works—I know I didn’t. Interns last summer were working on fashion lines eight months in advance! You really have to keep yourself well-informed of the trends surrounding Hollywood, New York and Europe. It’s a fast-moving and competitive industry, so testing out the waters during an internship to see if your passion can withstand the pressure is extremely important.”

BRAND: Victoria’s Secret PINK INTERN: Cait Kelly, Penn State ‘11 TYPE OF INTERNSHIP: Marketing / Public Relations TIME PERIOD: On-campus internship, fall / spring semesters

Photo by Kim Yee

Spring 2011

Landing the Internship: “Get involved—and if you are involved, take advantage of the resources offered to you. By reading emails sent across listservs, I was able to learn about this amazing opportunity and what was required. I also browsed the Victoria’s Secret PINK website for more information. I immediately sent in my application and before I knew it, I had an interview confirmed where I was told to ‘dress in clothes that represent me!’”

On the Job: “As a campus representative, I am one of approximately 110 girls across the country working to help promote PINK on college campuses. Campus representatives are required to complete PINK brand training at Victoria’s Secret headquarters in Ohio prior to starting the internship.

Throughout the school year, these interns execute various events on campus, whether they are promotional, charitable or simply a way to interact with students. Interns are also required to interact daily with campus representatives from different schools as well as build relationships with organizations on campus.”

Learning the Ropes: “Interning with PINK has taught me more than I could have ever anticipated. I have learned how to successfully organize and execute events as well as promote them through the use of social media and other public relations mediums.

Also, I have discovered the importance of not just promoting a brand, but actually connecting with its consumers to gain insight of personalities and interests.”

Work Before Play—Why an internship may be important for those looking to work in the fashion industry: “Internship experiences are essential in preparing for a career in any industry, but especially in fashion. Working behind the scenes allows you to gain your own perspective of different brands. The fashion industry sometimes seems to speak its own language so the only way to learn that language is to experience it at different angles.”

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At Bluefly, the cybershoppers of Happy Valley can find thousands of trendy styles from today’s top designers with up to 75 percent off retail prices. New styles arrive daily, making this one of the most up-to-date sites for seasonal must-haves. A plus? On Bluefly, items are removed as soon as they go out of stock, so they will never be backordered. Bluefly offers the perfect combination of selection, convenience and value. Happy shopping!

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Looking for some new pieces for your wardrobe that won’t break the bank? Shop your favorite brands online for trendy and wallet-friendly fashion. Here are Valley’s favorite websites for designer discounts and exclusive sales. By Alyssa Blanco and Cassidy Clauss

The Urban Enthusiast:

The Bargain Buyer:

Iconic Imitations:

Karmaloop has great street wear from brands like adidas, Married to the Mob and WeSC. Here, the urban fashionista can find the latest graphic tees, dresses and shoes. With unique accessories and catchy colorful clothes, the site is your one-stop shop for trendy day-to-night looks. If you want to make a night on the town as fashion-forward as the day that preceded it, remember that good karma is just a click away at Karmaloop.

For the ladies on a tight budget, PLNDR offers unique street wear— everything from graphic tees to colorful shoes and accessories. It is so named because this is where you can get some great steals. The deals last a few days, so you have more time to browse and choose. PLNDR also has overnight sales, where all items are $9.99 or less.

StyleSalt is a site geared toward fashion social networking. It bridges the gaps between fashion enthusiasts all over the world. This site serves as a one-stop shopping destination, where you can plan a wardrobe perfect for any occasion and any budget. Creating a membership is free and, once you’re registered, you can shop by your favorite celebrity styles or runway looks as well as gain access to exclusive coupon codes and sale notifications. fashion 55

PUT NEUTRAL IT IN

Photos by Ann Sciandra Styled by Samantha McCloskey

Previous page: Crystal and chain necklace (Flesh Décor, $16), Winter Annie top (French Connection, Flesh Décor, $73) This page: Six strand necklace (Flesh Décor, $19), Ruffle-front tank (cocolove, Connections, $28), Harem pants (French Connection, Flesh Décor, $148)

Gold and gunmetal necklace (Access, $24.50), Black and gold thin chains (Access, $24.50), Gold cuff (stylist’s own), Nude tube dress (Nikibiki, Access, $20), Draped vest (Swoon, Access, $36), Kishka heels (The Shoe Box, $45.99)

WHAT TO WEAR:

TO WORK Sure, UGGs and PINK sweats cut it around the dorm, but when you’ve finally landed your dream job, whatever is a girl to wear?

Photos by Julianna O’Malley

Picking the perfect outfit for your first real job is work all on its own! But by selecting a few classic, office-friendly pieces and adding a dash of your own personal style, you can set yourself apart from the crowd without your boss asking,

“What was she thinking?”

By Emily Grier

It can be tough to dress for conservative industries like accounting or finance, with their more traditional attire.

Problem solved: Pair a solid-colored button-down with black pants, a classy tote and simple black pumps. Understated, yet stylish.

Shirt (Kate Boggiano, Mr. Charles, $118), Pants (Jenne Maac, Mr. Charles, $264), Pumps (Madden Girl, The Shoe Box, $39.99), Tote (Connections, $44)

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Spring 2011

When working in a creative industry, you need to show your personal style without going too over the top. Start with a flowy dress accessorized with a studded belt. Match with trendier pumps and a chic purse, and you’ll showcase your unique eye for design.

Dress (ark & co., Access, $58), Belt (Access, $12), Bracelet (Access, $14.50), Pumps (Madden Girl, The Shoe Box, $39.99), Purse (Connections, $68)

In the fashion industry, you have a bit more license to rock the latest trends from the runway—but you still have to exude a professional vibe. By coupling a floral blouse and a solid-colored blazer with structured shorts, an oversized bag and black tights, you can convey your fashion sense without looking like you wandered off the set of “Gossip Girl.”

V-neck (Alternative, Access, $42), Blazer (Necessary Objects, Access, $58), Shorts (Joe’s, Access, $108), Bracelet (Access, $14.50), Pumps (Madden Girl, The Shoe Box, $39.99), Tote (Connections, $44)

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MAXIMIZING YOUR CLOSET

We all get that feeling. You know the one: “I have nothing to wear!” If you think you’re a victim of an empty closet, Elysia Mann will help you perfect the skill of making over a wardrobe full of stale clothing.

Photo by Ann Sciandra

First, you’ll need to clear out the absolute rejects. This means getting rid of clothes with setin stains, pilled fabrics, overly trendy pieces and dying details, like unraveling beading or missing jewels. If you have multiples—we’re talking the same T-shirt in seven colors, cardigans, camis or jeans—keep the ones you actually wear. Keep clothing with sentimental value and everything that you wear on a regular basis. Then, make two piles of the discards: one of clothes that need to be thrown away and another to give to charity. Need some extra cash? Try taking your discards to a re-sale store like Plato’s Closet. There, they will give you cash for your duds and then re-sell them. As it goes, one woman’s trash is another’s treasure.

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Your next step will be to organize.

Separate the jackets, dresses, longsleeve and sleeveless tops, pants and shorts, and closet-bound accessories, like belts and shoes. It helps to keep similar colors and shapes together, but isn’t crucial. The most important factor in making over your wardrobe is that you know where everything is and feel it’s organized enough for you to be creative. A disorganized closet will frustrate you or, even worse, make you feel that you have nothing to wear.

Take it a step further and toss out your old hangers in favor of non-slip models, or install a new rack or shelf under—or on top of—your hanging goods to make more efficient use of the space. Most students don’t have that capability or allowance, so even investing in a shoe rack to put under the hangers will keep your shoes more organized.

Spring 2011

Now that you’ve cleared out what you definitely won’t wear and made everything easier on yourself, it’s time to re-evaluate your options.

You’re left with the best and most versatile items you own. Get some ideas on how to wear those pieces again and again. What to do with the flared jeans that seem to be a bit ‘90s? Rip up the knees a bit, add a patch to the back pockets, and you’ve got yourself a pair of one-of-a-kind ‘70s bellbottoms.

Even easier, style them in a retro way.

Wearing a pair of platforms and a breezy, floral blouse with those pants will make you instantly chic. Do you have a tank top that you only pull out on summer scorchers? This is a must-have item for everyone, but many girls don’t even realize the potential it has. For a fall day of classes, try it under a cozy cardigan with dark jeans and boots for a sophisticated and put-together look.

When you’re heading out for the night, lose the sweater and add a necklace or pair of earrings, and pull on a pair of jeggings. You can also layer a longsleeve tee shirt under the tank for the colder months, or add a professional vibe with your favorite blazer, skirt and no-fail pumps.

DO keep old T-shirts from concerts and sports or activities you were involved in. Vintage is always cool.

DON’T feel obligated to hang on to clothes that don’t fit. If a skirt from seventh grade no longer fits, it might be time to let it go.

DO discard anything in a color that you think is unflattering. If you feel that orange makes you look like a pumpkin, chances are good that you won’t be digging through your closet for that hue.

DIY:

T-RIFFIC Transformation

Give your ordinary Penn State T-shirt a DIY makeover. Classidy Clauss shows you how to turn a boring T-shirt into a one-of-a-kind creation.

TOOLS: TOOLS:

1 T-SHIRT

1 Step 1: Lay the T-shirt on a flat surface and cut off the neckband with scissors.

Then flip it so the back is facing up. Cut a deep V-shape in the back of the shirt by measuring 5 inches below the center of the neckline and cutting a diagonal line from both sides of that point.

4 Step 4: Cut the other side so both look identical.

RULER

SCISSORS

2 Step 2: Cut vertically down the middle of the back of T-shirt. Make sure it’s the back layer only.

5 Step 5: Beginning at the top, match up the points and tie the two sides into a knot, creating a diamond shape.

Continue until the bottom one is tied.

PENCIL

3 Step 3: Measure and cut a halfdiamond that goes in 4 inches and out 4 inches and is about 2 inches wide.

This will produce a zigzag effect to be continued down the rest of the shirt.

6 Step 6: Cut off the sleeves just before the seam. Put it on to reveal your cute and transformed T-shirt!

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