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STORIES & GUIDES TO THE 804

THE COMPASS • SUMMER 2018

THE COMPASS Local bands to look for—14

VCU terminology—18

All-Nighter Culture—28

Finding your way in RVA ZACH JOACHIM The CT Welcome home, Ramily. Don’t worry, nobody actually says that. Nonetheless, welcome to VCU, new students. May you find a family here, as many of us have. Nothing will be more important than the friends you make in college, though it should be noted that attending class and learning something is recommended. As is finding a cause and organization you feel passionately about — going to SOVO

Fair is pivotal. I found The Commonwealth Times and Student Media Center, along with the English Department and Robertson School of Media and Culture. These communities have been my anchors. Find yours. They could be anything from Greek life to intramural or club sports — Super Smash Bros Club to Camp Kesem. The Political Science Department. We have an elite Quidditch Club if you are one of the many who would rather be at Hogwarts. Explore the city, from the hustle and bustle of Carytown to the moonlit

corners of Shockoe Bottom. Love, respect and enjoy the James River — it is the lifeblood of the 804. But above all else, soak in THE PEOPLE. Yay diversity. Bravo, administration, bravo. Your branding has been impeccable. Really though, there’s something to it, the image. This is a special city and university to write your bildungsroman, your coming of age novel, amid. Do you feel that modern cultural spirit around you? The zeitgeist is alive here. Lose yourself in it. Immerse yourself in the deluge of perspectives and identities this

city and university have to offer. Because when you walk out into the world, those relationships are what you value above all else. The people you associate yourself with unwaveringly become who you are, particularly in this stage of life. Compass points you home, young Rams. Welcome to our dear city, new students. May this guide jumpstart your adventures.

Illustration by Uri Hamman and Mai-Phuong Bui

Basketball preview—7

Top 10 things

to do in your first month at VCU SMC STAFF

ESTABLISH A FAVORITE HANGOUT — Restaurant, coffee shop, bar, etc. Reliance on your meal plan is to be expected, but Richmond’s culinary scene is too vibrant to ignore.

Illustration by Steck Von

CAST LINES — You will catch nothing if you don’t take a few shots in the dark. Make sure you go to SOVO Fair. Search for that thing or group of people that gives you direction. Don’t worry if you don’t find it at first. So long as you try, it will find you, eventually.

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GO TO CLASS — For real y’all, don’t waste the tens of thousands of dollars you or your parents or guardian are paying for you to be here. You will almost certainly pass if you just show up.

HIT THE RIVER WHILE IT IS STILL WARM — Our favorite is Texas Beach, but you have options: Belle Isle, Pipeline and Pony Pasture, to name a few. If you don’t have an intimate relationship with the James, you are not a true Richmonder.

DO NOT FEEL PRESSURED TO CHOOSE A MAJOR — Take some gen-eds and figure things out. Nearly everybody switches at least once. Schedule an appointment with your advisor and brainstorm together.

THE COMPASS | 3

6. 8. 10.

CREATE A WEEKLY AGENDA — Time management skills are imperative. Develop them if you, like many of us, are not naturally gifted in this capacity.

GO TO ‘NO SHAME VARIETY SHOW’ — It’s held at Cary Street Playhouse on a Friday night (it’s held every other week). It’s a sketch comedy show by and for VCU students and is a perfect introduction to the community.

7. 9.

BE UNAPOLOGETICALLY YOURSELF — Do not be who you think others want you to be. Fronting does not behoove Richmonders.

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TOUCH THE RAM HORNS ONCE — Terrible things will happen and your time at VCU will be cursed if you do multiple times. You touch them again when you graduate. Keep a 50-foot perimeter in the meantime.

REACH OUT TO YOUR DORM-MATES — You are all scared to one extent or another. Everybody just wants to make friends.

Restaurants to save you from freshmen blues SAMUEL GOODRICH The CT Whether you’re checking out VCU for the first time, or have already decided

you’re a Ram for life, going to college can be a scary and stressful obstacle to tackle. It’s a new stage in life that has been built up for years — you might be moving away from friends and family,

and everything can be both immensely exciting and hopelessly daunting. No matter where you’re at in the coping process, you can always find comfort in food, and Richmond has you covered in

that department. These are a few local restaurants near VCU’s campus that are not only great places to eat and hang out with friends, but they also won’t break the bank.

THE VILLAGE CAFE: 1001 W. GRACE ST. Open early in the morning to late at night, The Village Cafe is a perfect place to hang out after a long day of classes. With its expansive menu covering burgers, salads, pasta, and even steak, you’re sure to find a favorite item in no time. Breakfast is also a highlight, with the three stack pancakes being a personal favorite. There are also a wide range of milkshakes that go from standards like chocolate or vanilla to more experimental flavors like Oreo or toasted marshmallow caramel. The kitchen closes at midnight on weekends, just FYI.

Since 1956, The Village Cafe has offered “diversions for the rich, the poor, the wise and otherwise!” Photos by Tina Harding.

CHRISTIAN’S PIZZA: 404 N. HARRISON ST. Located next door to Village, Christian’s is VCU students’ late night grub of choice. Open until 3 a.m, Christian’s Pizza offers a variety of toppings from pepperoni to barbecue chicken. The pizzas themselves are New York style thin crust and come in large slices. Even better, these pies are normally priced around $2 or $3. Just expect long lines after midnight on weekends.

Christian’s Pizza started in 2000 in Charlottesville.

l l a ç n e p O

Amendment Fall 2018

Seeking art and creative literature of any medium or genre. Topics include, but are not limited to:

Race, gender, sexuality, politics, culture, class, mental health, the environment, or the social/personal cause of your choice.

Inquiries/submissions: amendmentvcu@gmail.com Facebook: Amendment Literary and Art Journal Instagram and Twitter: @AmendmentVCU Website: amendmentvcu.com

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THE COMPASS | 5

Mojo’s boasts the best Philly in Richmond.

MOJO’S PHILADELI: 733 W. CARY ST. Sitting about a block away from the Cary Street Gym, Mojo’s is similar to Village in terms of price, menu, and atmosphere. What separates it from the competition are two things: wings, and

delivery. On most nights, Mojo’s will deliver its tasty, juicy wings in orders of 12, 24, and 50 until midnight, or until 1 a.m. on weekends. The other items on the menu are worth checking out, like their highly touted Philly cheesesteaks and Budget Burgers, but don’t miss out on the wings while you’re there.

Meet VCU Libraries. Download the libraries app as part of the RamGuide app.

guidebook.com/app/ramguide/guide/vculibraries/ Photo by Tina Harding.

GALAXY DINER: 3109 W. CARY ST.

With a vibrant 1950’s sci-fi aesthetic, Galaxy Diner offers a large menu from breakfast to dinner with style. Particularly, their sandwiches and burgers

offer a unique variety, from breakfast burgers to crabmeat sandwiches. While a little out of the way of VCU’s campus, Galaxy’s average prices and large portions ensure that you will not come back to the dorm hungry.

For those of you who are more health inclined, or simply prefer there be no animals or nature harmed in the making of your food, Harrison Street Cafe is your restaurant of choice. Living up to its slogan “Good Eats, No Meats,” this cafe not only serves delicious coffee, but great vegetarian and vegan sandwiches. They also serve breakfast items all day, like their excellent burritos or egg sandwiches.

An EO/AA University.

HARRISON STREET CAFE: 402 N. HARRISON ST.

Richmond film festivals challenge blockbuster culture

Former Frensh Ambassador to the U.S., His Excellency Jean-David Levitte, recognizes Richmond’s French film festival as the most important in the country. File photo.

TINA HARDING Mercury Video Richmond is bursting at the seams with admiration and exploration of the arts close to home. Film is a common medium that is often overlooked on a local scale; more likely than not, people buy tickets to blockbusters instead of local productions. However, Richmond continues to challenge that. As home to some of the most revered film festivals in the state of Virginia, our city pushes the boundaries of what the public finds as entertainment and gives filmmakers a platform to promote their work and share their visions. Here are just a few of the film festivals Richmond has to offer.

RICHMOND INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL

The Richmond International Film Festival, or RIFF, celebrates both featurelength and short films from around the globe. Every spring, independent producers, directors, writers, and more flock to the Byrd Theatre in Carytown to participate in this prestigious competition. RIFF accepts screenplays and music videos in addition to produced films. Local filmmakers have the opportunity to mix and mingle with global names as they enjoy screenings, live performances, Q&A panels, and more.

including a few screenings on VCU’s campus at the Grace Street Theater.

the opportunity to present their work to an American audience. According to the festival’s website, former French Ambassador to the U.S., His Excellency Jean-David Levitte, recognizes it as the most important French film festival in the country.

48-HOUR FILM PROJECT The 48-Hour Film Project is an international filmmaking competition that operates on a local scale, turning cities around the world into hubs of creativity. Teams have a weekend to write, produce, and edit a short film based around a random genre, prop, character, and line of dialogue. In Richmond, screenings are held after the competition right on our campus at the Grace Street Theater, and the best short film moves on to compete at Filmapalooza and screen at Cannes. Mercury Video, the VCU Student Media Center’s current pilot organization, will be competing in the 48-Hour Film Project for the first time this summer.

RICHMOND ENVIRONMENTAL FILM FESTIVAL

The annual Richmond Environmental Film Festival, presented FRENCH FILM by the Sierra Club - Falls of the James FESTIVAL Group, brings a new perspective of the world to the Richmond community. Each year, VCU partners with the Focusing on environmental issues and University of Richmond to promote sustainability, the RVA EFF aims to French language and culture through film. open the community’s eyes to the way Also held at Carytown’s Byrd Theatre, the our actions affect our city and our planet. French Film Festival welcomes French This week-long festival takes place at filmmakers and actors and gives them numerous theaters across Richmond, ADVERTISEMENT

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THE COMPASS | 7

Rhoades, Rams regroup for 2018-19

Former VCU Center Mo Alie-Cox is now a tight end for the Indianapolis Colts. Photo by Erin Edgerton. Byrd and KeShawn Curry, as well as highly touted forward Vincent Williams — will join a team facing significant VCU Men’s Basketball made it to the turnover from last year following the NCAA Tournament every season since departures of senior starting point guard 2010 until last year, when the Rams failed Johnny Williams and senior forward, to advance past the A-10 Quarterfinals. leading scorer and First-Team All-A-10 But with a clean slate on the horizon, the selection Justin Tillman. Black and Gold will look to settle into Despite losing Williams, Tillman a new coaching staff, as Mike Rhoades and fellow senior Khris Lane, begins his second season at the helm on RamNation has one big reason to expect Broad Street. a bounce-back 2018-19 campaign — VCU has relatively thrived in Marcus Evans. The 6-foot-2-inch rising a whirlwind of momentum swings, junior point guard sat out last season coaching turnover and unprecedented due to transfer regulations after he expectations since the legendary Final followed Rhoades from Rice University. Four run of 2011. The Shaka Smart and A Chesapeake, Virginia native, Evans Will Wade eras have come and gone in averaged 19.0 points per game and shot that time, leaving the VCU community 42 percent from the field as a sophomore in desperate search of stability. Despite competing in Conference USA. last season’s tournament letdown, A George Bush High School graduate RamNation hopes Rhoades is the man out of Richmond, Texas, Byrd committed to lead the Black and Gold back to the to VCU back in September on Twitter promised land and stay for the long haul. and could begin the season as Evans’ As freshmen begin to tour campus backup. Curry, a Fork Union Military at orientation, the team will be a few Academy graduate, committed to VCU blocks away training for the upcoming last October. The 6-foot-4-inch combo season. Three freshmen — guards PJ guard adds versatility to Rhoades’

JESSICA WETZLER AND ZACH JOACHIM

The CT

Photo by Erin Edgerton.

backcourt behind Evans, junior guard and sharpshooter Malik Crowfield, junior guard Mike’l Simms and Byrd. Last but not least, Williams, a four-star forward from St. John’s’ Jesuit in Toledo, Ohio, committed last October. Williams has drawn rave reviews for his athleticism and competitiveness, as the versatile wing has already earned the label of a classic VCU talent. Williams projects the highest ceiling of the trio. Last season, the freshman class produced immediately and became fan favorites, leaving VCU supporters full of hope for the future and, particularly, the next two years. Forwards Sean Mobley and Marcus Santos-Silva burst onto the scene last year and could assume starting roles as sophomores. Rising junior wings De’Riante Jenkins and Issac Vann join Evans, Simms and Crowfield to round out a stacked class of 2019-2020. Projected 2018-19 VCU starting five: Evans, Crowfield, Jenkins, Mobley, Santos-Silva. Sixth-man: Vann’s dynamic scoring presence is best utilized in this capacity, although he could foreseeably compete

with Jenkins or Mobley for a starting gig. Other significant contributors: Simms came on strong down the stretch last year and should garner major minutes off the bench. Williams should also push for playing time, as his elite athleticism could ease the learning curve to the collegiate level. Rhoades likes to rotate 8-10 men in order to play at a frenetic pace and out grit the competition, so senior wing Xavier Jackson and Byrd could also see minutes. Senior transfer Michael Gilmore, now in his second stint on Broad Street, could be an X-factor and add much needed depth to the Rams’ frontcourt. STRENGTHS: Evans is undoubtedly the fulcrum of this squad. The lefty guard has some James Harden to his game, with an array of savvy moves at his disposal and range for days. Look for as many as 20 points per game from the Cape Henry graduate. Depth and versatility on the wings will stand out as the defining characteristic of this group. Jenkins, Vann, Mobley, Williams and Jackson should all guard 2-4 effectively and get to the cup consistently. Mobley, Jenkins and Vann also bring range from beyond the arc to the table. WEAKNESSES: Front court depth is the glaring shortcoming of this edition of HAVOC. Much will be asked of Santos-Silva, as he is the only true bruiser on the roster, and an undersized one at that. This is somewhat by design, as VCU traditionally recruits smaller, athletic centers who can run the floor and keep up with the high tempo (think Mo-Alie Cox, now a tight end for the Indianapolis Colts). As always, the Black and Gold will have to pack the paint against any big man pushing 7 feet, work to run him off the floor and lure him into foul trouble. At 6 feet and 10 inches and 210 pounds, Gilmore, a 4-5 hybrid with three-point range, could see the playing time necessary for a breakout season after disappointing years at the University of Miami and Florida Gulf Coast University following his transfer from VCU after his freshman season.

Need music in your school life?

The Broadberry, located at 2729 W. Broad St., is walking distance from VCU campus. Photos by Craig Zirpolo, SMC Alum / craigzirpolo.com

HAYDEN MOLCHAN WVCW Radio Richmond is well-known for its expansive and diverse music scene. However, many incoming VCU students find it difficult to navigate the areas around campus in search of music stores, venues and student organizations. We’ve created this guide as an introduction to music resources in and around campus. Below is a list of music-related locations around VCU recommended by the staff at WVCW.

VENUES Strange Matter, 929 W. Grace St. Located essentially on campus across the street from Grace Street Theater, Strange Matter is a hub for underground music, featuring punk, folk and many other genres. Strange Matter also serves food (including vegan options — you’ve got to try the Buffalo cauliflower) and has a selection of arcade games as well. See their website for more info: strangematterrva.com

The National, 708 E. Broad St.

Altria Theater, 6 N. Laurel St.

Richmond’s premier music venue, The National is located down Broad Street near the MCV campus. The National features larger shows with renowned artists inside a historic theater setting. Events take place every week, with artists ranging from Rock to HipHop and more. See their website for a full event schedule: thenationalva.com

The Altria is a historic amphitheater venue located near the center of the Monroe Park Campus. The Altria features live music as well as standup comedy, plays and other productions. Events are displayed outside the entrance on the corner of Laurel and Main. For full event schedules visit: altriatheater.com/events The Broadberry, 2729 W. Broad St. A venue with a long history of hosting live music and other events, The Broadberry, appropriately named after its location on Broad Street, is known for not only for its wide array of music acts but also its adaptable layout and sizeable bar. The Broadberry provides a comfortable environment for both concertgoers and social gatherers. Events and other info can be found at: facebook.com/thebroadberryrva/

STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS WVCW Radio, 817 W. Broad St.

PJ Harvey is an English musician, singer-songwriter, writer, poet and composer.

Interested in becoming a student DJ for the VCU radio station? WVCW, the student-run radio on campus, is VCU’s only student organization that gives students the opportunity to work in the fields of radio broadcasting, music journalism, concert photography and radio production all in one. The station is located inside the VCU Student Media Center, which also features two elective courses in radio broadcasting, taught by our former FCC Consultant, Jon Carpenter. If you’re interested in getting involved with WVCW, visit the Student Media Center and speak with any of the WVCW Executive Staff members. More information on WVCW can be found on the official website: wvcw.org

THE COMPASS | 9

Big Mama Shakes released “Coming of Age” at The Camel on Broad Street.

STORES Steady Sounds, 322 W. Broad St.

Located on Broad Street just a few blocks from campus, Steady Sounds features a wide selection of new and used vinyl

records as well as other music memorabilia. The store also contains Blue Bones Vintage, a thrift store section featuring

clothing and other accessories. More info is available on their Facebook page: facebook.com/steadysounds

Buses, bikes and RamRide: how to get around Richmond

GEORGIA GEEN The CT

Illustration by Steck Von

You’ve read about some of the restaurants, book shops and attractions Richmond has to offer. For those places located too far from VCU to walk to without experiencing severe chafing and foot cramps, one problem remains: how to get there. VCU doesn’t allow first-year residential students to have cars on campus, so as to create a more “pedestrianfriendly” environment and help integrate students into the university’s culture. As a result, it’s easy for freshmen students to fall into a routine of staying within the university’s bubble. Here are explanations and advice for three affordable ways to get around the city without relying on pricey Uber and Lyft rides. Keep in mind, a combination of the three might be the best way to get to your destination.

GRTC Buses Despite the disruption to Broad Street traffic that has been its construction, GRTC Transit System’s Pulse Project promises faster service at its 14 stops along the 7.6-mile route. Most bus fares can be purchased at the stations’ ticket vending machines,

but VCU students have the option to purchase transit passes that are valid for one semester.

Full-time student passes are $100, while part-time students are charged $50. The passes, which allow unlimited rides

with a valid VCU ID, can be purchased at 1108-A W. Broad St. or 659 N. 8th St. For perspective, a standard 30-day GRTC pass costs $60 and most local routes are $1.50. Remember, for cash payment, the buses only accept exact change. Users can enter their destination into Google Maps and select the public transit option to learn which GRTC route(s) will get them there. This won’t show anticipated arrival times at each stop — for that information, download GRTC’s app, available for iPhone and Android.

RVA Bike Share Pedaling might be more physically demanding than sitting in a bus with air-conditioning, but using Richmond’s bike share system allows travelers to get around on their own schedule. Its 16 stops are more geographically condensed than GRTC’s bus stops, but users can take advantage of stops near Hollywood Cemetery, Movieland at Boulevard Square and the Edgar Allan Poe Museum. On a practical note, its stop near the Lombardy Street Kroger makes light shopping trips easier. Individual Go Passes can be purchased at the station kiosks and cost $1.75 for the first 45 minutes of a ride, while longer rides cost $3 per half-hour. Monthly and annual passes are $18 and

Join STAT by making your $20 donation today! Learn more at vcustat.org or email vcustat@gmail.com.

As part of Students Today Alumni Tomorrow, VCU Alumni’s student alumni organization, you’ll enjoy access to alumni, networking and professional events, and free giveaways throughout the year.

Illustration by Mai-Phuong Bui

Join STAT

$96, respectively, and holders just have to hold their pass up to the handlebars of the bike they wish to unlock or use the mobile app. Once a ride is completed, return the bike to the nearest Bike Share stop, which serve as charging stations.

RamRide

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As referenced in this publication’s VCU Dictionary of Terms, RamRide offers the Campus Connector and RamSafe to help students and staff get around the university’s campuses and surrounding areas. Though the destinations are limited, the services

— especially the Campus Connector — can be used to get closer to downtown attractions. Plus, they’re free. Just make sure to have your VCU ID ready. Download the Rider app and add “Virginia Commonwealth University” to your transit systems to view stops and arrival times for the Campus Connector. The RamSafe app allows users to request rides to VCU buildings and surrounding residential areas from a predetermined list of addresses.

THE COMPASS | 11

Tuition trends project steep increase On May 11, the VCU Board of Visitors voted in favor of raising tuition and fees by 6.4 percent, entailing different types of price changes for students and redesigned budget allocations for the upcoming 2018 - 2019 academic year. This would be the 17th consecutive year that VCU has raised tuition and fees, mostly due to a decline in state funding. The average residential undergraduate student will pay about $800 more and the typical nonresidential undergraduate will pay about $2,000 more this academic year than last. In April, the Student Government Association and representatives from the BOV — the university’s governing body — hosted an open forum to address students’ concerns before arriving to its final decision in early May. A presentation with data compiled by the office of Budget and Resource Analysis was given to clarify any questions and provide transparency behind university spending. In light of the 50 percent drop in state funding compared to the 2001 fiscal year, VCU has had to continually increase revenue gathered from students. As of 2018, VCU has the fifth-highest tuition and fees price tag when compared to the other Virginia state universities and colleges. However, the report also notes that mandatory fees have increased less than most other state schools in the past four fiscal years.

Students living on campus for the upcoming school year will pay $112 more than last year in mandatory fees — which include technology, library, health services, and university fees. The university fee, as defined by the VCU budget plan for fiscal year 2018, is used to support recreational sports facilities, the University Student Commons, campus development, career and counseling centers, student disability and student service center and intercollegiate athletics, among other programs.

Room and board prices, two examples of non-mandatory fees, have also risen. According to the presentation, the cost of a typical residential hall room will increase 2.7 percent and the average meal plan will be 1.9 percent more expensive than last year. The increased revenue gathered from tuition and fees will be allocated toward increased advising, competitive adjunct faculty pay, faculty recruitment with an emphasis on diversity and inclusion, improving and increasing instructional space and faculty offices, and improving financial aid. The acquisition of neighboring properties through the ONE VCU Master Plan - such as the Mansion

534 nightclub (purchased in February) - has borne the blame for what campus organizations like the VCUarts Adjuncts Organizing for Fair Pay and VCU Young Democratic Socialists of America have said to be an irresponsible use of funds. Precise plans for that space have not yet been announced to students, though it is currently believed to be potential studio space for the School of the Arts. There have been numerous demonstrations against VCU budget decisions that didn’t improve pay for adjunct faculty, or non-tenure track instructors. Initiatives like improving faculty pay were deferred during fiscal year 2018, but are now considered to be “critical needs” by the budget office.

Illustration by Mai-Phuong Bui

NIA TARIQ The CT

WELCOME TO THE

RAMILY!

November 2-4, 2018 We hope you will join us for Family Weekend 2018—an exciting opportunity to introduce your family to your new friends, campus life and the Richmond community.

SAVE THE DATE! For more information, visit familyweekend.vcu.edu. If you have any questions, email ramfamilies@vcu.edu or call the Parent and Family Helpline at (804) 828-7322. A schedule of events and the opportunity to register will be made available this summer.

Top 3

local bookstores in Richmond Do yourself a favor and pick up a copy of Kerouac’s “On the Road” and Ginsberg’s “Howl.”

ANDREW SALSBURY Pwatem Literature & Art Journal

CHOP SUEY

Odds are, you’re going to wind up in Carytown one day soon. It is one of the biggest draws for people living both inside and outside the city limits, because of its eccentric restaurants and shops. Among them is Chop Suey Books, one of the hubs for the local literary scene. For me this is always the place I go if I’m looking for a particular book. If they don’t have something you’re looking for in stock, just ask at the counter and they will order it directly from their distributor and

usually toss in a 10 percent discount. This is also a great stop if you don’t necessarily know what you want, but like taking your time scanning the shelves. When you walk into Chop Suey, the first floor is full new books by great contemporary writers, like VCU’s very own David Coogan. Many people, however, don’t realize that there is another level to the shop. I know on my first visit to the store, I did what a lot of newcomers do and never noticed the stairway to the second floor. Off to the left, as soon as you walk in, you’ll find the stairs, and once you’re up there, that’s where the real book hunting begins.

Richmond Book Shop is located at 808 W. Broad St. Just a few blocks from campus. Photo by Ali Jones.

They have wall-to-wall bookshelves with sections for memoirs, novels, poetry, philosophy, and more. The one complaint I often hear about Chop Suey is that their prices are a little more than what you might expect from a local used bookstore; however, the fact remains they regularly host readings and team up with local literary organizations, so every penny really goes right back into our community.

RICHMOND BOOK SHOP O Richmond Book Shop, how I love thee! You may be familiar with its sign if you aren’t already familiar with the store itself — it’s the one that says

THE COMPASS | 13

The phrase “Chop Suey” is an Americanization of the Mandarin “Za sui” meaning “a little bit of this, a little bit of that.” Photo by Eli Christman. “BOOKS” on Broad Street. This is the place to frequent if you want to go from 0 to 60 with your hipsterism. They have old movie and band posters, used vinyl, prints of famous paintings, and a huge selection of used books on the shelves, the floor, and the people ... OK not really the people. You can find a broad range of classics here as well as super specific sections like one dedicated to just Beat Writers. Do yourself a favor and pick up a copy of Kerouac’s “On the Road” and Ginsberg’s “ Howl.” They are great quick reads and when all your friends inevitably start dressing like Greasers and talking about making “the ancient heavenly connection to the starry dynamo,” you’ll be ahead of the curve.

CIRCLE THRIFT

Not too many people know about Circle Thrift, which is a shame, because it is such a unique store. Located in a hot spot for local businesses in downtown at 7

W. Broad St., this shop is easy to spot in nice weather because the owner can often be seen out front surrounded by used furniture, books, and other antiques. One of my favorite parts about Circle Thrift is the book selections is always changing and you never know what to expect. There are four long and low tables covered in books when you walk in, and I’ve seen Greek Mythology next to a collection of Richmond Noir short stories. Something to keep in mind when planning a trip there is that it is cash only (there is a convenience store across the street with an ATM if you forget), and all the books are just $4! Seriously, all of them! This is definitely a place I recommend for serious book hunters since there’s not a whole lot of organization to their collection. Fortunately, if you’re the type of person who loves books, then you never mind spending a long time in bookstores. Richmond Book Shop also features a vast poster selection. Photo by Eli Christman. ADVERTISEMENT

Go global, VCU. An international experience is more valuable than ever in preparing for tomorrow’s careers. Whether you’re looking to study in another country, want to have a global experience here on campus or are settling in as an international student, we’re here to help. What we offer: • Education Abroad • English Language Program • International Student and Scholar Programs • VCU Globe, Global Education Living-Learning Community To learn more, visit us at global.vcu.edu or come visit us at 912 W. Grace St., 4th Floor.

A new student’s guide to local music KATE KISTLER WVCW Radio

People’s Blues of Richmond project a “heavy, psychelic, loud, manic, emotion-driven” rock ‘n’ roll vibe. Photo by Josh Meister.

Hello, new dudes, welcome to Richmond! You may have heard (I hope you’ve heard) that the music scene in this city is insane. I mean it. With an evergrowing number of venues, budding band babies and house shows every weekend, there is no shortage of new music to explore. But it can get overwhelming. To cut your stress short, here’s a collection of bands that represent just a fraction of the goodness ye olde River City has to offer. Dip your toe in, but don’t be surprised when you find yourself spending your fourth consecutive night moshing at Strange Matter with plans for a fifth and sixth. Don’t worry, you’re doing it right. DEAU EYES — We were lucky enough to have this stellar group perform at Jorts & Tanks, a festival WVCW put on at the Richmond Raceway this past spring. Led by songstress Ali Thibodeau’s soulful crooning, the country/folk rock of Deau Eyes will get you moving. MCKINLEY DIXON — Full band hip-hop with poignant lyrics and loads of energy. Check out his Bandcamp for recent release “The Importance of Self Belief ” recorded under local label Citrus City. DON FREDRICK — A six-piece band with rock, psychedelic and funk flavors. Earlier this year Don Fred recorded their first full-length album here in Richmond at Sound-Check Studios and did a Chalkboard Session at the WVCW office. Check it out on the WVCW Facebook page or on the VCU SMC TV YouTube channel. MANGOUX — This group has been killing me recently. The dreamy lo-fi vibes

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Be a good “Ramily” member and help us maintain a culture of care and support!

All VCU students must take the online “Not Anymore” course BEFORE AUGUST 17.

STUDENTSUCCESS.ORG/SSO/VCUNA Not Anymore FAQs: students.vcu.edu/resources/not-anymore-training

FINISH EARLY TO WIN Get it done by 7/30 to be entered to win one of five $100 Amazon gift cards! More about Title IX: equity.vcu.edu/titleix

Nathaniel Rappole’s solo project Gull is best described as a “living, breathing, squawking drum.” Photo by Perry Conner.

THE COMPASS | 15 perfectly complement lead singer Haley’s lilting voice for a bewitching and groovy final product. The live recording of their set for local radio station WRIR is rad. Check it on their Bandcamp. CAMP HOWARD — Alternative indie band that recently went on tour with rock legends Stone Temple Pilots AND did an Audiotree session. This is a band to watch. Check out the spring issue of Ink Magazine for an interview with Camp Howard. GULL — Holy sh!t, y’all, Gull is a treat to see live. Mixing performance art with killer music, Gull puts on a mesmerizing — nay — jaw-dropping show by playing guitar with one hand, drums with the other, and crooning out mystical songs from under a mask. Gull will blow your mind. Catch him at Emilio’s, The Camel or maybe even outside Blue Bones on a warm First Friday. LUCY DACUS — In addition to releasing her second album in two years, Dacus has also done an NPR Tiny Desk Concert and toured the U.S. and Europe. If she sounds legit, it’s because she is. A Maggie Walker alumna, Dacus keeps it close to home between tours with performances at the National and other local venues. If you want to shout out amazing lyrics with one of the coolest gals around, be sure to make it to her shows. PEOPLE’S BLUES OF RICHMOND — If you want bluesy rock with just enough punk to get you thrashin’ and sweaty, this is the group to know. For bonus points stroll on over to YouTube and watch their cover of Rage Against the Machine’s “Killing in the Name Of ” with local superstars No BS! Brass Band. Yeah, you could be having that much fun. For more suggestions or to express interest in helping out with Chalkboard Sessions, email me at chalkboardsessions@ wvcw.org.

WVCW’s Kate Kistler sang with Don Fredrick at the radio station’s event Jorts & Tanks. Photo by Anh Nguyen. ADVERTISEMENT

VCU FRATERNITY & SORORITY LIFE ADVERTISEMENT

Service Leadership Scholarship Enhance Your College Experience Brotherhood Sisterhood Community

Multicultural Greek Council (MGC) “Meet MGC” Monday, Aug. 20 7 p.m. Location TBD

INTEREST MEETINGS

College Panhellenic Council (CPC) All Sorority Interest Meeting Sunday, Aug. 26 1 - 3 p.m. Commonwealth Ballrooms Univesity Student Commons

National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC) NPHC “Why Be Greek” Sunday, Aug. 26 7:30 - 9:30 p.m. Commonwealth Ballrooms Univesity Student Commons

MGC - Culturally-based Fraternities and Sororities CPC - Social Sororities NPHC - Historically African-American Fraternities and Sororities IFC - Social Fraternities

Questions can be emailed to VCUGreeks@vcu.edu

Interfraternity Council (IFC) IFC Meet and Greet Thursday, Aug. 30 6 p.m. Commonwealth Ballrooms Univesity Student Commons

THE COMPASS | 17

Social media synopsis

Your guide to navigating the modern digital campus

University social media apps are a great way for new students to become acclimated with their new environment.

DANIEL PURYEAR The CT There is a ton of information being thrown at every freshman during orientation and Welcome Week. Don’t get lost and miss out on all the important events, giveaways and necessary knowledge. Social media is a freshman’s best friend in the coming months, with uses ranging from a communication platform with VCU departments to helping you find a roommate who won’t steal your stuff and get the police knocking on your door. The most important use is connecting with others going through the same things you are. Join your class Facebook group, follow anyone with “VCU” or “VCU23” in their bios and start the college socialization. There are hundreds of departmental and organizational social media accounts, but the most pertinent and entertaining information and posts will come from other students. No one finds out there is a protest gathering from VCUDine. With the first step of gaining a VCU community through your social pages done, now on to the more official pages. There are some very broad accounts that everyone can find some interest in from VCU Police Department to VCUDine. Then there are organizations like Greek Life and religious groups that have more specific followings. First, the VCU department pages everyone should follow. VCUDine is obvious from the name, but it gives information on anything from swipe

The Well educates students in recovery, advocacy and healthy living standards.

times at Chick-fil-a to what Shafer is passing off as food. VCU Libraries and VCU Police are a couple more recommended pages that will give you up-to-the-minute information on Cabell hours as well as areas and crime scenes to avoid. Departments more geared toward students include VCU Commons, the Office of Multicultural Student Affairs, VCU Student Government Association, VCU Homecoming, The Well and the Activities Planning Board. These all hold events that are less school-related and

more student oriented. From the neverending event calendar at the Commons plaza to homecoming week and what rapper is coming to Altria, and on to simple weekly activities for students to do with friends when bored. When Welcome Week finally comes around there will be an onslaught of organizations trying to get participation and market events to freshmen. Follow the Welcome Week social media page to know what events and organizations are going on so you can get active as soon as you get to VCU.

For all of the Greek life-curious, getting involved in Welcome Week and following the Interfraternity Council at VCU, as well as any fraternity or sorority that draws interest, is the best way to get ahead of the game and find out which one might be worth rushing. There is no doubt anyone who has applied and got in to VCU knows there is no VCU football team, but the VCU Basketball fan base is pretty strong. Follow VCU Athletics and each individual VCU team to know all of the roster changes, scores, game dates and times, and how to cheer on the Rams. Twitter accounts are particularly useful for this capacity. The mighty few who know exactly what program and major they are going to declare will want to follow that program’s social media in order to get the ball rolling on potential internships, classes to register for and guest lectures. A few honorable mentions include: Working at VCU, VCU Rec Sports and VCU President media pages. A job on campus is a draw for a ton of students, so stay up-to-date with job openings through Working at VCU. RecSports encompasses the Intramural Sports leagues and tournaments, Sport Clubs and Outdoor Adventure Programs at VCU for those who love to stay active. Lastly, although he gets blamed for every tuition hike VCU ever has, President Rao does try and keep the VCU community informed.

Wait, what is that again? A slightly judgmental VCU dictionary of terms GEORGIA GEEN The CT No matter how many AP, IB or dual enrollment courses you took, nothing could have prepared you for the onslaught of new lingo splattered across the grid of an unfamiliar city. Two campuses, multiple bus systems and countless buildings can get confusing. Though it’s far from comprehensive, this brief list of terms might help you navigate VCU with fewer bumps in the road. Brandt (n.): A suite-style dorm located at 710 W. Franklin St. next to its older neighbor, Rhoads. It offers four-and-eight person suites, all with double bedrooms, connected by a private bathroom and common area. Cabaniss Hall (n.): A traditional-style dorm located on the MCV Campus at 615 N. 8th St. It’s a solid 30-minute walk from the Monroe Park Campus, but students living in this dorm can use the Campus Connector for faster transportation. Cabell Library (n.): VCU’s Monroe Park Campus library at 901 Park Ave. which attracts tens of thousands of visitors a week during the school year. Its databases, accessible at www.library.vcu.edu, are essential for most students and the Starbucks located near the front entrance is heavily utilized.

The Commons (n.): Home to Taco Bell, Chick-fil-A, Pizza Hut and Freshii, this student hub is a popular dining destination. It’s located at 907 Floyd Ave. and houses organizations like the Office of Multicultural Student Affairs and Student Accessibility and Educational Opportunity. Gladding Residence Center (GRC) (n.): Its predecessor of the same name, which was demolished in 2016, was rumored to have black mold. The new building, located at 711 W. Main St., promises to be much, much nicer, including a kitchen for each “neighborhood” of 125 to 200 students and built-in USB charging ports. Johnson (n.): VCU’s most hipster dorm — located at 801 W. Franklin St. — features mostly double-occupancy rooms, crown molding and possibly ghosts. The aesthetic and the elevators are reminiscent of the Disney World ride, Tower of Terror. Jonah’s (n.): Somewhat similar to Shafer Dining Court, but better. Oh, so much better. Located on the MCV Campus, it’s just a Campus Connector ride away for most students. Almost everything, including made-to-order hamburgers, pizza, cheesecake and a salad bar, is Swipe-able. Hours of operation are between 7 a.m. and 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. Friday, 10:30 a.m. and 7 p.m. on Saturday and 10:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Sunday.

Campus Connector (n.): A bus route operated through the university’s Monroe Park Campus (n.): Home to RamRide service with stops on and Shafer Dining Court, Cabell Library and between the Monroe Park and MCV most undergraduate housing, this area campuses. Students, faculty and staff can — sprawling north and south between use the buses by swiping their VCU IDs Cary and Marshall streets and roughly upon entering. Guest passes — which confined east to west between Belvidere expire after four days — are available at and Harrison — is where most students parking.vcu.edu/transportation/ramride. spend a majority of their time. During the fall and spring semesters, the buses run between 6 a.m. and midnight MCV Campus (n.): Unless you face the on weekdays and 8 a.m. to midnight on misfortune — or luck, it all depends on weekends. A limited schedule is available perspective — of living in Cabaniss Hall, during the summer semester. For you might not set foot in this place at all transportation between the two campuses during your first few months at VCU. outside its hours of operation, see RamSafe. Located downtown, MCV houses the

Brandt and Rhoads Halls have a combined capacity of approximately 1,321 students. Photo by Taber Andrew Bain.

THE COMMONWEALTH TIMES: Since 1969, an award-winning weekly press covering local news, sports, opinion and culture. The CT is available at news stands around campus, and online at commonwealthtimes.org Interested in contributing? Contact our Executive Editor at joachimz@commonwealthtimes.org r 25, 2017

Septembe BEST SMALL, NON-DAILY —2017 Virginia Press Association The independent press of Virginia Commonwealth University

BEST SMALL The indepen , NON-DAILY —2017 dent press Virginia Press of Virginia Association Commonwealth University

February

5, 2018 • Vol.

February 12, 2018 • Vol. 59, No. 4 Association rsity ia Press 7 Virgin alth Unive DAILY —201ia Commonwe L, NONVirgin press of BEST SMAL endent NEWS The indep

59, No. 3

Letter from

NEWS RamSafe • 3

SPORTS Mens basketball • 4

SPECTRUM RVA Bachata • 7

a survivor

•3

NEWS •3 protests Student

OPINIONS Stock market • 9

SPORTS •5 Volleyball

SPORTS signs • 6 Sanders

• Vol. 59,

No. 5

OPINIONS s • 11 Besty DeVo

SPECTRUM • 8 Pride Virginia

Complex creative video production in the heart of RVA

SPECTRUM eness Week • 8 Islam Awar

A MOTHER REMEMBERS Six months after Charlottesville, mother of slain activist shares message of tolerance

VCU stakes cla in opioid fight im

To get involved contact Tina Harding at tv@vcustudentmedia.com

ANNON WRIGHT

VCU grad draw Google Dood s le

FADEL ALLASSA Managing Editor N

Shannon Wright, a 2016 VCUarts gradua

PHOTO BY ERIN EDGERTON

policyma kers craft legislatur providing e by necessary As Virginia policy opinion polling. lawmakers tinue efforts conto combat Opioid overdoses epidemic, VCU the opioid remain the leading cause is asserting in fighting its role of death one of the deadliest epi- cans over 50 years old. for Ameridemics in American With nearly 64,000 overdose history. In his State fatalities in a 22 percent of the Universit 2016, address Jan. y vious year, increase from the 25, Pres. preRao said the university Michael rise. Deathsthe epidemic is on the ing the ongoing is fightfrom prescript ates have epidemic through ion opitreatment, quadrupled education Working alongside and research. according to the Center since 1999, Control for Disease legislativ and Preventio tors, the university e n. In Virginia, is implemen acinitiatives to fatal drug overdoses ting fund research.educate the public and became the leading cause of unnatural death in 2013, surpassin Mishka Terplan, g car professor in accidents and gun-relat the School of implemented Medicine, said VCU Fatal overdoses in 2016ed violence. almost 40 multiple increased treatment programs — addiction ous year, percent from the previrecent one according to the most which began called MOTIVATE, Department of Health.the Virginia Opioids are patient clinic last April, is an outdrugs used lieve pain where a majority to repatients admitted by slowing of body’s down the have an opioid nervous use disorder. relievers are system. These pain “We are highly addictive suband opioid integrating addiction stances — as few as eight days of across inpatientmisuse assessment daily use can lead to The addiction. epidemic tings,” Terplan and outpatient setpasses legal in the U.S. encomsaid. Terplan said drugs such as fentanyl, people suffer- morphine and codeine, ing from addiction as well and substance illegal drugs like abuse often heroin. The as face discrimin idly expandin healthcare ation in g opioid market rapsettings. A has the healthcar setback in garnered response from actors e world, he across Virginia. issue that must said, be addressed is an In 2016, Universit y . former developing researchers are also McAuliffe declared Gov. Terry the opioid safer alternati sis a public cripain relief health emergenc ves for to replace the current opioids in state of Virginia. McAuliffy in the drug e prosaid addiction market. Terplan posed $76 million to fighting the -related research epidemic in is active througho the 2019-202 0 state ut all research budget. The proposed levels at VCU. locates funds budget al“We have towards to continue grams and opioid prospeciality addiction services and to grow the expanintegrate addiction services, and sion of drug courts. Before the assessment maintenance most and domains of treatment across all the General Assembly recent bills, pecially in healthcare — but es- Medicaid Addiction funded the primary care,” and Recovery Treatmen said, “We need Terplan program. t Services more physician The program (ARTS) Terplan’s s.” increased pansion of suggestions for ex- treatment capacity in the opioid treatmen monwealth. vices have Lauryn Walker, Comt sertheir share docfrom Virginia of support toral student in the of Virginian citizens. A majority of Health Behavior Department and Policy for battling s support strategies at VCU, said the ARTS program cording to the opioid crisis, ac- offers addiction treatmen a t and Eighty-t wo Wilder School poll. management services to Medicaid adults are percent of Virginia members with substance in favor of use disortreatment centers expanding ders, fully covered by Medicaid “As Medicaid nities. Seventy- in their commupolicy evolves, . need to maintain one percent we providing favor creasing a focus on housing for inrecovery from access to people high-evidence opioid addiction in care,” Walker The findings said. . This were session, part school’s Winter of the the The poll also Public Policy Poll. sembly is considering General Aslegislation to participants found 48 percent of expand Department of Correctio were in support employees ns providing clean ability to of users to reduce needles to opioid Naloxone, a medicatio administer n used to reverse opioid the risk and of infection overdose. spread . The Wilder Robyn McDoug a role in the School also plays le, director the Office university ’s of of work in reach in the Public Policy Out- educating the public on the Wilder Wilder School, said crisis. VCU’s Wilder the current School’s findings School host a panel on the national will help epidemic opioid Tues., Feb. 6.

hem when the so-called “alt-right” protesters clashed with those who showed up to oppose them. One far-right protester drove a car into a group of counterprotesters — killing Heyer, who was 32 years old, and injuring 19 others. Immediately after Heyer’s death, Bro started a GoFundMe crowdfunding campaign to help pay for her daughter’s funeral costs. Donations came in droves to pay for the funeral, Bro said. When the funeral was over, the fund still had more than $200,000. Using her daughter’s story to amplify a positive message, Bro then established the Heather Heyer Foundation, which will give scholarships to high school students in Charlottesville.

“I said, ‘There’s no way people think we need this kind of money for the funeral itself.’ That tells me people want to be a part of whatever they feel Heather was doing,” Bro said. “I said, ‘We’ve got to do something responsible with this money.’ All this money was coming in, and I wanted to be held accountable for it.’” The foundation will grant scholarships to students at Charlottesville High School and William Monroe High School, which Heyer attended, in Stanardsville, Virginia. Bro said the money will go to students who want to advocate for social justice. “We’re not looking to create new advocates. We’re looking to help advocates who are already in activ-

ism to further their education,” Bro said. In the face of all this, Bro is a mother grieving the loss of her daughter. She still misses her daughter and is often stricken by moments of deep grief. She remembers her daughter as a young adult who was trying to be the best grown-up she could be — working three jobs to be self-sufficient. Heather Meyer was a paralegal and worked as a bartender and waitress in the evening. “She was a go-getter, and I was proud of her for that,” Bro said. Bro visited her daughter’s impromptu memorial Sunday, the day before the six-month mark since her death. The street has been continued on page 8

VCU Athletics spotlights sexual assault protocol

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“We take pride in knowing that we are leaders on our campus in creating a safe and supportive culture for all students.”

IX re of Title The fut u nt Departme

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that people want to hear what she has to say. But she hopes to empower them to fight prejudice and intolerance. “It’s not about me, and it’s not really about my daughter. It’s more that people are horrified to realize how entrenched the hatred is,” Bro said. “I think that addressing people in a calm and rational manner not only reassures people but gives them a little bit of hope about how we can fix this.” The nation is still reeling from the events of Aug. 11-12, when farright activists gathered in Charlottesville for what they claimed was a protest opposing the removal of a Robert E. Lee statue from Emancipation Park. It quickly devolved into may-

N BY JULIE

to promote the values Heyer stood for — and eventually died for — in Charlottesville. “She wanted everybody treated equally and fairly. That was a lifelong passion for her,” Bro said Sunday in an interview with the Commonwealth Times. Bro said she is getting used to a new lifestyle after her daughter’s death. She has had speaking arrangements and preached a message of empowerment at the MTV Video Music Awards and on the Ellen DeGeneres Show. Reporters have constantly been at her door. She is working with a public relations firm and is hiring a press agent and speaker’s bureau to help her manage the demands. She said she has been surprised

ILLUSTRATIO

FADEL ALLASSAN Managing Editor Six months after she was killed protesting a neo-Nazi rally, a memorial for Heather Heyer at the site of her death is still being showered with gifts, mementos and flowers. But it has also been vandalized, according to Heyer’s mother -- a reminder of the hatred that took her daughter’s life. For many, the riot triggered by far-right protesters in Charlottesville on Aug. 12 exposed the underbelly of hatred and racism in America, and the months since then have been about coming to terms with that reality. But for Susan Bro, Heyer’s mother, the halfyear has been hallmarked by efforts

NEWS Stolen creden SPORTS Me

@ mercuryvideorva for Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook

For Susan Bro, the mother of Heather Heyer, the last six months have been hallmarked by efforts to promote the values her daughter stood for — and eventually died for — in Charlottesville.

LEY

ILLUSTRATION

BY LIZZY COX

SAFFEYA AHMED Contributing Writer

gs of meetin a series surviFollow ing representing and to enbe able with groups s sexual assault in July, DeVos Rights would did in the past vors of campu ine the the Civil Title IX as it rights groups force t men’s was time to reexam Joe Biden policies. istration. President ed, I commi said it 3 istration’s said Vice was sent. however, admin r, if confirm very closely previous admin continued on pg “Senato be looking they handle day the letter guidances, d ed and t for how under Title Those newthreat when Donalap- that I will has been regulat to accoun cases sensitiv ity this assault ing all Education came under e president and Sec- at how and with great and also , that provid ment sexualone of the U.S. forbidding becam to the handled, are victims as well,” believe Trump DeVos At 1972 environ IX, who n. of sex Rights educationalination is ex- Amendments on the basis of re- pointed Betsy tion positio Janu- to thosering perpetratorsknow that Educa with an g in discrim ination conside retary of ation hearin institution “But please discrim free from when asked DeVos said. e to this.” casual at any educational g. important.” her confirm os waffled tremely seemingly very sensitiv d tty Muration ral fundin

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THE COMPASS | 19

Cabaniss Hall features two-person traditional style double bedrooms and has a capacity of 424 students. Photo by Taber Andrew Bain.

VCU Medical Center and the university’s health science programs. Food carts are prevalent in this area, due to the high number of professionals in need of a quick lunch. No freshman year is complete without a trip to Jonah’s. RamSafe (n.): An evening shuttle service available to students, faculty and staff between 5 p.m. and 8 a.m. 365 days a year. Users can request rides to locations on and near the Monroe Park and MCV campuses via the RamSafe app, online at ramsafe.vcu.edu or over-the-phone at 828-SAFE. If you’re looking to ride

during peak hours, get ready to wait: in the past, students have complained about long wait times and confusing pickup locations. Note that transportation between campuses is only available on RamSafe outside of the Campus Connector hours of operation.

true. The good parts? The variety, the icecream machine that usually works and it’s open from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday and 10:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. on weekends. Oh, and it’s all-you-can-eat for one Swipe. The bad parts? Almost everything else.

Rhoads (n.): Uglier than Johnson with safer elevators, Rhoads is a traditional residence hall located at 710 W. Franklin St. and connected to Brandt.

Swipes (n., v.): Hated by most freshmen, coveted by upperclassmen. The staple of every dining plan, those living in freshman dorms — like Johnson, Brandt, Rhoads, GRC and Cabaniss — are required to have hundreds of these. One Swipe allegedly equals one meal — or

Shafer Dining Court (n.): Pretty much every rumor you’ve heard about Shafer is

entry for one person into Shafer — from VCU’s dining locations during their swipe hours. Note: not everything on the menus can be Swiped. If you’re feeling generous, you can become a Swifey for someone without a dining plan. Swifey (n.): A generous soul who Swipes food for someone without a dining plan. Swifey relationships can be long-term, casual or so brief you don’t even learn the person’s name.

an equal opportunity/affirmative action university 004695-01

“ Taking 15 credits a semester not only saves money, but time. I’ll be in my career sooner.” – Myles Sully

SAVE UP TO $50,000.* dothemath.vcu.edu

ATE ON TIM U D

* Estimated savings based on a 120-credit-hour program with standard tuition and fees, books/supplies, room, board, miscellaneous and transportation expenses and graduating in four years instead of six

SA V

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Apps essentials Every resource new students need to download DANIEL PURYEAR The CT In the Social Media age, knowing your way around a community’s digital commons can be the key to integrating oneself into said community. Here’s a list of apps that can help new VCU students navigate the 804. LiveSafe – Constant VCU Alerts tend to worry non-local students, and VCU Police is trying to calm those fears with the LiveSafe app. LiveSafe will send VCU Alert push notifications, share your location to VCU Police at your request so you know someone is watching out for you, share your location with a friend on the walk home and give you quick access to VCU emergency numbers. Duo Mobile – Duo Mobile is one of those apps that you’ll easily forget about but realize you need. Paired with VCU email and account security, Duo Mobile is an application to allow you to receive push notifications and allow your phone or computer to initiate access to that account.

Rider Transit – For all those freshmen who get stuck in Cabaniss, the Rider app will be a must. Select VCU as a route and the app will let you know where the Campus Connector stops are, how long the wait may be and if any stops are closed.

VCU Mobile – VCU Mobile is the my.vcu. edu page for your phone. With widgets consisting mainly of links to VCU pages including Blackboard and RecSports, it is more of a middleman than anything. It will still get you to eServices in two clicks, though, which is pretty helpful.

Ram Guide – Ram Guide is the perfect tool during Welcome Week to help navigate all the events. Just download the guide you want and you’ll have the option of seeing a schedule and selecting your favorite events as well as get notifications for those events. The app does have other guides that may be useful but, for the most part, it is just a Welcome Week tool.

Blackboard – The love/hate relationship with Blackboard will become obvious to freshmen within weeks of class. The app is easy to use and allows quick access to class documents and grades, but is employed with highly variant expertise and commitment depending on your professor. A key benefit of the app is that it does not make you sign in every time.

RamSafe – RamSafe allows students the opportunity to feel safe when trekking across campus, particularly at odd hours. However, the wait times will be infuriating. The app allows students to enter a current location, drop-off location and get updates as to when their ride will arrive.

GroupMe – Anyone that gets into an organization, class group or just needs a way to connect to your floor mates will discover GroupMe quickly. It is simply a group messaging service that allows Android or Apple to receive and see the same pictures and messages.

RamGuide provides information about events, services, and activities.

JUMP-START YOUR RAMILY. APPLY FOR RAM CAMP.

MAKE YOUR HOME ON CAMPUS. MOVE-IN AUG 18.

For details about Move-in, download the Move-in Guide in the RAM Guide App.

WHY BE A RAM CAMPER? • Get to know campus before classes start

• Connect with RVA (Richmond, VA)

• Get to know your fellow Rams

• Build relationships with upperclass student leaders

• Participate in service projects

• Gain access to a wide array of campus resources

• Connect with university faculty and staff

• Meet VCU’s President, Dr. Rao

• Kick-start your VCU apparel collection with free fan gear

• Partake in one-of-a-kind entertainment

• Become personal friends with VCU’s own Rodney the Ram

• Move in a week early

REMEMBER PRIORITY DEADLINE: July 6 DEADLINE: Aug 1

DATES: Aug 12-Aug 18 COST: Free

VISIT RAMCAMP.VCU.EDU TO APPLY.

MOVE-IN TIPS • Bring your own hand truck or cart, so you do not have to wait for a cart to become available • Be selective about what you bring many students bring more than they need • Communicate and coordinate with roommates to make sure you do not bring duplicate items • Remember to bring your VCU ID with you to check in - if you have not yet been issued your VCU ID, you will need another form of photo identification

• Unloading zones are for unloading only - this means you will need to unload your vehicle on the curb and have someone wait with your belongings while you park and check in • Label all items with name, room number, and contents to ensure that nothing is misplaced and items are easily located when unpacking

HOUSING.VCU.EDU

THE COMPASS | 21

Murals of

RVA

The Richmond Mural Project began in 2012 and sought to create more than 100 pieces throughout the city in its first five years. Photos by Tina Harding.

Billboard vs. NACC

KATE KISTLER WVCW Radio College students certainly enjoy their fair share of “pop” music, but college and non-commercial radio stations have their own ranking system for what music should be topping the charts. NACC stands for North American College & Community and charts airplay on such stations. Billboard charts popular music. Here’s my take on how the top 10 songs from each chart compare.

week of May 25, 2018 Billboard 1

This is America Childish Gambino

YUP. This gets the nod for the crucial content.

The Middle Zedd, Maren Morris & Grey

A solid summer jam.

Nice For What Drake

Ooh, this may make me a Drake fan.

No Tears Left To Cry Ariana Grande

Ooh, I’m diggin’ the Knower vibes.

God’s Plan

Drake

Quotable but uninteresting ... still not a Drake fan.

Post Malone ft. Ty Dolla $ign

OH! This song ... there’s a reason I’ve never listened all the way through.

Look Alive

BlocBoy JB ft. Drake

Eh. There’s nothing new going on here.

Psycho

Never Be The Same Camila Cabello

Comparing being in love to being on drugs is played out, yo.

Meant To Be Bebe Rexha & Florida Georgia Line

This song confuses me ... I like it ... I think … ?

Perfect Ed Sheeran

Good ol’ Ed. He’s much more talented than his hits suggest.

pwatem

1-4 p.m. Friday, Aug. 31, at the VCU Student Media Center, 817 W. Broad St. Email join@vcustudentmedia.com.

If you’re interested in joining, contact us at pwatem@gmail.com Submit your work through our website at pwatem.com/submit

Interested in learning more about student media? Come check us out at the SMC Fall Open House

an anthology of literature and art

THE COMPASS | 23

RVA/VCU FUN FACTS

April 14, 1989: The Red Hot Chili Peppers played a concert on a stage at Shafer Court which is about where the elevator of the Shafer Court Dining Center is now. (The Shockoe Examiner)

NACC 1

Pay No Mind Beach House

... meh.

You Hate The Title Speedy Ortiz

*grimaces, shakes head*

Four Out Of Five Arctic Monkeys

I want to like it so bad, but the song’s trying harder than I am.

HunnyBee Unknown Mortal Orchestra

A groove that is tasty and mellow but lacks dynamics.

The Creature

La Luz

A lil’ haunting and oh so smooth. One day this will be part of the soundtrack of my biopic.

How Simple

F**CK yes. Hop Along came out HOT on this album!

King Tuff

“Existential Funk” is worth listening to all the way through for the killer outro.

Hop Along

Psycho Star

Buzzing in the Light Dr. Dog

What l listen to as the sun goes down and I curl up in my cocoon of solitude.

Jesse

Frankie Cosmos

It Was Not Natural Wye Oak

AH! This should be higher on the list.

Easy on the ears.

Final Count Billboard: 3 NACC: 6 Ties: 1 Don’t agree? Come to the SMC and challenge me to a duel. (Or email me at chalkboardsessions@wvcw.org.)

-Kate Kistler, Chalkboard Sessions Director

HUMS 291 Working in College Radio Get involved in Student Media — for credit! This general elective course teaches you how to be a DJ by putting you on-the-air at WVCW Radio. Do promotional events, play music, take quizzes. No Pre-Reqs, no textbooks. HUMS 291: Working in College Radio It’s like Richmond Radio... only good.

Protect the RAM! Use your own ideas

}

Produce honest work Finish with integrity

Know the VCU Honor System

A freshman’s guide to

‘gyming’

Cary Street Gym features an 18,000 square foot fitness center. Illustration by Uri Hamman.

NIA TARIQ The CT ADVERTISEMENT

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upper level consists of cardio machines, an indoor soccer field and more weight equipment. The lower level is home to cycling studios and the aquatic center. With two pools for leisure and exercise activities, the aquatic center is open every day the gym is and closes 30 minutes before the rest of the facility. The MCV Campus Recreation Center is at 900 Turpin St., accessible to students without cars by the Campus Connector shuttle at the J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College stop or a short bike ride. This usually quieter, one-story gym is located within the Larrick Student Center, right across the street from the MCV campus Barnes & Noble location and a short walk from the hospital. Inside are basketball courts, classroom studios and weight and cardio equipment similar to those at the Cary Street location. Students may also swim in the MCV pool and sit in the hot tub. VCU Recreational Sports (commonly referred to as RecSports) is part of the division of Student Affairs and is funded through the university fee that all students pay. RecSports services 65 percent of the VCU student population, according to assistant director for external relations Anthony Muscatello. Employees at Cary Street Gym will be showcasing the facilities, programs and services offered throughout the academic year during “RecSports Night” on Aug. 20 during welcome week. All students have memberships for no additional charge. Some services, such as OAP excursions, personal training sessions and table massages, carry additional fees. More information can be found at recsports.vcu.edu. Job seekers can also find openings for RecSports in the HireVCURams portal at careers.vcu. edu.

A u g. 20 . 2 -4 p.m

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If making the beeline to class through the 150 acres of campus every day isn’t enough to shake the fear new students infamously have of the freshman 15, VCU also has two facilities for exercise open throughout the academic year. Cary Street Gym and MCV Campus Recreation Center provide space for students and members of the greater Richmond community to work out individually, partake in group exercise classes, have personal training sessions and table massages — among other activities. Cary Street Gym is a three-story facility located at 101 S. Linden St., across the street from the Trani Center for Life Sciences and a short walk from Cabell Library, whether walking outside or taking a shortcut through the University Student Commons. The first floor has free weight equipment as well as assist machines surrounding a 35-foot climbing wall and 18-foot climbing boulder, operated by the Outdoor Adventure Program. OAP also runs outdoorsy trips in or outside Richmond, bicycle tours, kayak clinics and more for little-to-no cost to VCU students. Its headquarters is across the street from the main gym building, next to the outdoor basketball and tennis courts and Cary Street Field. Behind the weight area is a series of partitioned basketball courts that can also be outfitted to accommodate sports like volleyball and badminton. Necessary equipment can be checked out free of charge. Classroom spaces, such as the “Mind and Body Studio,” are also on the first floor where gym-goers can participate in yoga, cardio dance or pilates classes, among other options. Directly above the courts on the second floor is a suspended indoor track, next to racquetball courts. The rest of the

free food and snacks Register your laptop visit the workshop Meet key staff Collect giveaways

Library.vcu.edu/about/events

THE COMPASS | 25

Intramural sports involvement ADAM CHEEK The CT VCU intramural sports are a popular form of extracurricular activities for new students to get involved in. Freshmen looking to take part in sports at VCU have a host of options. Men’s, women’s, and open leagues are all offered, and all tournaments fall under open classification. Anyone that joins VCU RecSports has the option to either create their own team or join an existing one as a free agent. Students can visit the program’s website to create a team or register as a free agent. Activities cover a wide range of interests, from general disciplines to specific ones. These extend from aquatics to fitness to team sports and even martial arts. Baseball is a popular club sport at VCU. The team holds open workouts, and those interested can email the president of the club for team schedules. There are also opportunities for students interested in intramural sports, but not specifically in participating in these activities directly. They also have the opportunity to become an official, particularly for flag football, soccer, and basketball. Training is provided for those

interested, and previous experience is not required. Competition rules state that if one team is not ready or has not shown up by game time, this results in a forfeit by that team. Each intramural league is sorted into divisions that indicate which time and day the teams will play each week. Residence halls also have significance in VCU intramural sports, with both full-season league results and tournament standings counting toward the yearend Hall Cup. Points are awarded for participation, sportsmanship, season-end standings, and championships, and more than one team or individual can represent a residence hall in any of these divisions. Some leagues are held over the course of the school year, while some extend into summer and others are held throughout the summer exclusively for those staying in the area. Basketball and flag football summer league signups are open until June 28. For any further questions regarding VCU intramural sports and activities, visit recsports.vcu.edu or email intramurals@vcu.edu to find out more information. Teams receive a 0-5 sportsmanship score after every intramural contest. Teams averaging 3.0 or greater qualify for playoffs. Photo by Byron Koranteng. ADVERTISEMENT

At VCU, safety is everyone’s responsibility. Start with these 3 steps. 1) Sign up for VCU Alerts: alert.vcu.edu/signup 2) Download the free LiveSafe app to report suspicious activity 24/7 3) Learn about services and programs: police.vcu.edu

If you see suspicious activity, report it to VCU Police immediately. VCU Police officers patrol both campuses 24/7 and investigate all threats, including those made on social media. VCU Police headquarters is located at 224 E. Broad St. in Richmond; VCU Campus Connector stops are nearby and visitor parking is available. Use the Convention Center stop on the GRTC Pulse rapid transit line. A police substation is located at 938 W. Grace St.; an Emergency Reporting Telephone System (ERTS) is located outside for emergency calls. For emergency assistance at any time, call (804) 828-1234.

The James River Association monitors the environmental health of the James River watershed. Photo by Ross Catrow.

A river runs through it ZACH JOACHIM The CT The James River Association says one of the most common questions it receives from the public is whether it is safe to swim in certain parts of the river. The JRA launched a water quality monitoring initiative in 2013 to track the environmental health of the James River watershed. If you want to do your research before taking a swim, visit http://jamesriverwatch.org/ Standing water can be home to harmful bacteria but, for the most part, water quality in the James has drastically improved over the last decade and it is safe for recreation. According to David Johnson, former Deputy Director of the Department of Virginia Environmental Quality, the James is the healthiest he has seen it in his lifetime. “I grew up in Richmond, and I remember my father basically saying there’s no fish in the James River,” Johnson said. “He wouldn’t want to go in the water. That’s all changed … Much of the early (James River) cleanup was around wastewater treatment plants, and that’s been much better.” So adventure with confidence, new students. Just watch for snakes and pick up what trash you can fit in your bag. Here’s our favorite spots to enjoy an afternoon with James.

of murals adorning a mystical spiral staircase before taking your pick of (at least when the water is low) over a hundred spots ranging from communally poppin to refreshingly secluded. Favorite spots include The Lagoon, Foushee’s Mill, Naked Rock and, if you’re feeling particularly adventurous, the famed and elusive Turtle Rock. You’ll need river shoes, low water levels and steadfast commitment to gain access to Turtle, but it’s worth the effort.

BROWN’S ISLAND

PIPELINE

This isn’t so much a river spot as it is a communal hub. Friday Cheers brings concerts to this cherished riverside space every Friday over the summer, so be sure to go see a show if you get a chance. There is also a rope swing under the train tracks, only accessible at low water levels — launching oneself into the river here is a favorite pastime of younger locals. Dog walkers and runners also frequent Brown’s Island.

Just a short walk down to the water from Brown’s Island, pipeline is a favorite river spot for nature enthusiasts. Bird watching and rapids are the main attractions here, as a suspended metal walkway beneath the train tracks allows visitors a one-of-a-kind vantage point for viewing the surrounding environment. This is also a favorite spot for runners, as the trail forms a circular route near the end of the Canal Walk. Although

TEXAS BEACH Located across the expressway in the back of Randolph off Texas Avenue, Texas Beach is our top pick. Why? It’s an adventure in and off itself. Depending on how far you want to go in, a half to full mile hike awaits visitors after parking in the spacious lot. Cross a bridge over the train tracks and take in an assortment

Thirty murals adorn the staircase leading down to Texas Beach. Photo by Tina Harding.

THE COMPASS | 27 space is limited and the walkway is nearly single file, an assortment of rocks and beaches just off the path provide spots to congregate and enjoy the surrounding rapids and wildlife.

BELLE ISLE The classic river spot, and for good reason. Take a stroll down to Brown’s Island and hop on the footbridge to arrive at Belle Isle, where rocks, rapids and relaxation await. There will be crowds, mind you — this is the most publicly renowned river spot, so seclusion can be hard to come by. Climb up to the top of the cliffs at the pond for the best views. Take the Belvidere Bridge until it turns into Chamberlayne and make an immediate right to explore the other, less populated side of Belle Isle.

PONY PASTURE Located at 7310 Riverside Drive, VCU students need a car to reach this cherished river spot. The journey is well worth it for true adventurers, as Pony Pasture is perhaps the most magical destination on this list, next to Texas Beach. Exploration is the main attraction here, as an assortment of boulders and rapids render Riverside Drive — designated as a Scenic Virginia Byway — a nuanced trail shaped by centuries of erosion. Uninhabited, public 100acre Williams Island awaits those savvy enough to kayak, swim or rock-hop their way across the river, at accordingly low water levels. Image courtesy of Boston Public Library.

Experts say the James River is cleaner than it has been in decades. Photo by Joe Pyrek. ADVERTISEMENT

Become a Traditions Keeper Download The Compass Traditions Keeper mobile app today, start completing traditions and earn prizes. Search VCU Traditions on both Apple and Android devices.

Join us and find out. VCU LEAD is a dynamic living-learning program dedicated to developing students to be impactful leaders in their communities & professions.

Applications for the 2019-2021 cohort will open on October 8, 2018. Visit lead.vcu.edu for more information and to apply.

Open Houses: Sept. 24, 5-7 p.m. Oct. 15, 5-7 p.m. Nov. 2, 3-5 p.m. Grace and Broad Residence Center

THE COMPASS | 29

Dog Days in Richmond by Morgan Barnett, Emanata

A Day in RVA by Susie Grady, Emanata

RVA/VCU FUN FACTS

Buzzfeed named Richmond the city with the best street art in the entire world. (www.movoto.com/guide/richmond-va/richmond-facts/)

ACADEMIC CALENDAR August 2018

September 2018

October 2018 November 2018

December 2018

T 14 Sa-Sn 18 - 26 R 23 R-W 23 - 29

Orientation for new graduate students Welcome Week Fall classes begin Add/drop and late registration

M 3 F 7 F 7

University closed Deadline for students to provide advance written notificattion to instructors of intent to observe religious holidays* Monroe Park campus students - last day for fall degree candidates to submit graduation applications to their advisers for December degrees MCV campus students - fall degree candidates should follow departmental deadlines

R-F

18 - 19 Reading days, no day or evening classes held - Monroe Park campus

F 2 M 5 Sn 11 W-Sn 21 - 25

Last day to withdraw from a course with a mark of “W” – both campuses (except for courses not scheduled for the full semester) Spring semester advance registration begins Veterans Day - University open - Classes in Session University closed - classes beginning at 12 p.m. or later do not meet on Nov. 21

Sa 8 Last day for grades of incomplete to be converted from spring semester or summer sessions Sa 8 Last day of classes for fall semester – both campuses Sa 8 December Commencement M-F 10 - 14 Final examinations for fall semester – MCV campus M-Sa 10 - 15 Final examinations for fall semester – evening classes M-T 10 - 18 Final examinations for fall semester – Monroe Park campus F 14 Final date for graduate dean’s approval signature on completion of graduate thesis/dissertation for December degree candidates (check with graduate program director regarding internal schedules for submission of copy, defense and school/college dean approval) F-T 21 - Jan 1 University closed Sa 29 Deadline for students to provide advance written notification to instructors of intent to observe religious holidays – holiday intersession*

student loyalty program

go to games get rowdy get prizes

download the mobile app in the app store or google play

THE COMPASS | 31 COMPASS STAFF

RESOURCES New to VCU? Here are a few important resources you might need in your first year as a Ram. VCU Police

Dean of Students Office

RamPantry

804-828-1234 (emergency) 804-828-1196 (non-emergency) police.vcu.edu/

804-828-8940 vcudean@vcu.edu

Equity and Access Services

Addressing food insecurity for in-need VCU students vcustudentfoodpantry.com/ rampantry@vcu.edu

Track the buses at vcu.transloc. com/ or on the smartphone app

Also serves as the Title IX Office 804-828-1347 equity@vcu.edu titleix@vcu.edu equity.vcu.edu/

Counseling 804-828-6200 counseling.vcu.edu/ After hours emergency: Call the VCU Police dispatcher at 804828-1234 and ask to speak to a therapist.

University Student Health Services

RamRide

RamSafe Free evening transportation service for the Monroe Park campus: 804-828-7233 (VCU-SAFE) For the MCV campus: 804-828-9255 (WALK)

RamAway

Free transportation to the airport, bus station or train station for academic breaks: parking.vcu.edu/transportation/ ramaway/

804-828-8828 students.vcu.edu/health

Career Services’ Suit Yourself Closet Find clothing for interviews for jobs, internships, etc. careers.vcu.edu/parents/services-for-students/ 804-828-1645 careers@vcu.edu

Division of Student Affairs students.vcu.edu/ Be Well: students.vcu.edu/bewell/ Get Involved: students.vcu.edu/ get-involved/ Find Resources: students.vcu. edu/find-resources/

Navigating your first year: www.vcu.edu/current-students/

Zachary Joachim is the Executive Editor of the Commonwealth Times, the independent student-run newspaper, and is the Special Projects Coordinator for The Compass. The Compass was written & illustrated by students from several of our student media organizations. Each contributor is listed below by organization. The Commonwealth Times (CT) Executive Editor Zachary Joachim joachimz@commonwealthtimes.org

Managing Editor

Georgia Geen geengr@commonwealthtimes.org

News Editor Nia Tariq

Illustrations Editor Steck Von

Staff Writers

Adam Cheek Jessica Wetzler Sam Goodrich

Former Sports Contributor Daniel Puryear

WVCW Radio Chalkboard Sessions Director Kate Kistler chalkboardsessions@wvcw.org

Music Director

Hayden Molchan 804-828-1055 music@wvcw.org

Pwatem Literature & Art Journal Staff Editor Andrew Salsbury pwatem@gmail.com

STUDENT MEDIA ABOUT THE SMC The VCU Student Media Center (SMC), located at 817 W. Broad St., houses various media outlets (student media organizations) that are run and produced by students. The SMC is dedicated to the support and encouragement of responsible, independent student media organizations to connect, explore and enrich the lives of the university’s many constituencies. It operates on a model of individual responsibility and professional standards rather than one of censorship and administrative control. It encourages the values of integrity, tenacity, creativity and honesty in the pursuit of excellence. The SMC and its student media organizations offer opportunities for involvement in a variety of interests, including writing, reporting, photography, design, music, fashion, culture, comics, web, audio, video, editing and more. Participation in any of the student media organizations is open to all students, regardless of major or class level. If you’re interested in joining one of our student media organizations, email join@vcustudentmedia.com.

ABOUT THE COMPASS The Compass is the summer 2018 orientation guide for VCU. Produced by the Student Media Collective in the VCU Student Media Center, and co-sponsored by our partners, New Student and Family Programs and the Division of Student Affairs, the guide is handed out at all summer 2018 orientation sessions for new and transfer students. Serving as the ultimate survival guide, The Compass features a wide variety of stories told from the perspective of current students to help new students and their parents familiarize themselves with VCU and Richmond. The Student Media Collective is comprised of members of our student-run media organizations, and The Compass was written and edited by those students.

Our student media organizations include: The Commonwealth Times commonwealthtimes.org WVCW Radio wvcw.org Pwatem Literature & Art Journal pwatem.com Ink Magazine inkmagazinevcu.com River City Fashion Uprising (RCFU) rivercityfashionuprising.com Amendment amendmentvcu.com Emanata emanatacomics.com Mercury Video mercuryvideo.org

Emanata Comics Anthology Editor-in-Chief Morgan Barnett

Assistant Editor-in-Chief Susie Grady

Staff Editor

Sammy Newman emanatacomics@gmail.com

Mercury Video General Manager

Tina Harding tv@vcustudentmedia.com

Student Media Center Staff Graphic Designers

Eric Ngo Desiree Choe Mai-Phuong Bui Kim Peters Ryan Rich Uri Hamman designers@vcustudentmedia.com

Director of Student Media Allison Bennett Dyche abdyche@vcu.edu 804-827-1975

Creative Media Manager Mark Jeffries mjeffries@vcu.edu 804-828-7660

Business Manager

ADVERTISING AND MARKETING The Student Media Center offers traditional paid advertising opportunities in print and digital to all VCU departments at a 10 percent discount. We also coordinate student teams as part of our Creative Services wing to assist our clients with their marketing needs — whether it be video production, design services, special event services like DJing or other projects. If you’d like to discuss a project or get a quote, contact Jacob McFadden at mcfaddenjc@vcu.edu. He’ll work with you to discuss your needs and explore how Student Media can help you meet your marketing and advertising goals.

Jacob McFadden mcfaddenjc@vcu.edu 804-827-1642

Assistant Business Manager

Andrew Salsbury smc_assistant@vcustudentmedia.com

Be WELL Get INVOLVED Find RESOURCES Download the VCU Insider App! (In the VCU RAM Guide App)

and visit students.vcu.edu