MS. COLLEGIATE DEC 2010
“So what can I expect...?” Read testimonials and about an HBCU experience.
Volume I, Issue I
First Year: Wardrobe Dorm Room Advice
The Next Chapter
Meet the Author
Being a college student myself, I wanted to create a magazine as a guide for incoming female college students. In this magazine, she will find advice on topics ranging from the perfect watdrobe to how to create your dream dorm room. She will also read about what to expect and ways to get involved. College is a journey that begins right when you set foot to campus. So flip to the next page and let your journey begin. Stephanie Arterbery
The Next Chapter: A Message for the Parents
One of the many milestones in your child’s life will be when they start college. College means making new friends, learning new ways of thinking, and preparing for a career. Your child will go through a transformation as he or she becomes an independent, self-sufficient adult. Sometimes this process can present challenges for the student and the parent. In many ways, it is a culture shock when a child leaves home for college. Parents left behind may react in a variety of ways. If a parent is elated, he or she may immediately find things to do such as re-decorating the student’s now-vacant room, going out to dinner more frequently, catching up on hobbies, and so forth. If a parent feels lonely and depressed, he or she may tend to sit home more often and wonder what to do.A happy balance should be the goal. Staying in contact with your student is very important, but successful communication means meeting the student half way. Send an occasional package. Look for small, inexpensive, yet meaningful things to send the student, such as their favorite chocolate bars, or something useful like a key ring. Be a good listener. One thing many parents may have a hard time doing is resisting the urge to preach or tell the student how to act. A good listening parent can often be of great help, while saying very little. Giving the student the opportunity to feel free to vent frustrations while not worrying about being judged can go a long way. All of these suggestions may seem overwhelming at first, but find enjoyment in this new phase of life. -Stephanie Arterbery
The First Year Experience
bit daunting and overwhelming. The social element too can be a bit alienating, as not knowing anybody on a college campus can leave you feeling alone. That is precisely why By: Paul Davis colleges and universities encourage new college students Entering college as a first to attend orientation week. year student can be both inI guess because I lived timidating and a bit challengabout an hour drive away ing. When I entered Valencia Community and UCF, I made from the college and university I attended, I never allowed the mistake of not attending myself to wholeheartedly intethe orientation for new stugrate, participate, nor embrace dents. Little did I know there the college experience. Truly would be some extremely helpful information to help me I regret missing this great opportunity. Yet I did graduget acquainted with the colate from community college lege and University. with a 3.8 GPA and UCF Cum Looking back in retrospect, I would have definitely Laude. So I certainly succeeded academically, but the attended welcome week and orientation. Thankfully when social element was never fully I attended the FAMU College developed, nor the professional relational component of Law orientation day, I became acquainted with the pro- on campus maximized. That is why I am writfessors, deans, and the spirit ing this for new incoming of the college. It made the college students. I want you transition much more easier to not make the same mistake and far less intimidating. I made early on by blowing Let's face it making a transition, no matter what life off and not going to the orientation. Although some of transition it may be, is never the information you receive at easy. Transitioning into colorientation may not be exlege as a new incoming stuceedingly life-changing, the dent (whether you are fresh relationships you will make out of high-school, a transfer can be very reassuring and student from a community college, a graduate student, or sustaining throughout your time at college (thereby lifeseeking further professional career development) can be a changing on the long-term).
It has been said it is not always what you know, but who you know. This is quite true. Therefore be open to attending orientation when you begin college. If you are academi cally focused like me and trying to avoid social distractions, consider attending orientation at least to meet the college President, deans, student advisors, and some professors. The transition from high-school into college was the best thing I ever did, as it pertains to my professional development and personal growth. I went from boyhood to manhood, where I embraced responsibility, cultivating success, and being proactive pertaining to my purpose and future career. Amazingly, I went from a 2.8 GPA to becoming an A and B+ student. My only regret is I became so academically focused (blazing through college and University in 3 years, thanks to summer school where I took 15 hours, a full load two summers in a row) that I forgot the social element and cultivating meaningful relationships. Therefore listen to me and when transitioning into college and university, take time to attend orientation and meet the college faculty, staff, and students on your campus.
Dorm Shopping By:Jackie Burrell 101 cozy duvet or Every school offers When it comes to outfitting the college dorm, you can ignore those glossy shelter magazines with the fabulous dorm layouts, plush couches, stacked lofts and framed prints hanging on the walls. Dorm rooms look nothing like that. Your teen’s home away from home will likely be a shared 10x10 cell crammed with extra-long twin size beds, chests of drawers, desks and wardrobes. Extra furniture? That’s funny. And no one’s allowed to pound nails into walls. So when you go dorm shopping, here’s what you actually need to buy (plus there’s a handy downloadable list to take along): Dorms have extra-long twin beds, so you’ll need extra-long twin sheets, a
blankets,and a foam pad to add softeness to the industrialstrength mattress. Your child will need several bath towels and flip flops for the shower, plus soap, shampoo and toiletries. It’s nice to have a large plastic basket to tote it all, but check the bathroom storage situation first. Your teen will need detergent, fabric softener, a laundry bag or hamper, and a jar of quarters, unless his college uses debit cards in the laundromat. Your new freshman will need a desk lamp and bulbs, school supplies (notebooks, pencils, pens), a graphing calculator, extension cords and a power strip with a surge protector, a laptop and flash drive.
printing privileges through the library. A mini-fridge, microwave (if allowed), electric fan (for dorms without air conditioning), television and DVD player are considered dorm room essentials. Urge her to discuss with the roommate on who’s bringing what for their room. What your child actually needs are hangers for the closet and storage bins for under the bed. Most dorms supply bulletin boards, bookshelves and waste baskets. You’ll want to provide thumbtacks, and plastic trash bags to line the waste basket (and increase the odds that the trash will actually be emptied). It’s also good to personalize to make your room feel like home.
Bed Bath & Beyond This could be yours!
Top 10 ways to get involved on campus By: Cara Ann Rob
1. Join a club! Getting involved is a great way to meet people and build your resume. 2. Whatever you do, don't stay cooped up in your dorm room. Interact with your floormates. Hang out in the communal lounge, have a game night, play icebreakers and try to get to know one another. 3. Go to the football game this weekend, or have your floor host a potluck dinner beforehand. 4. Fight the Freshman 15, and take a spin or yoga class at the Colvin Recreation Center. 5. Join a religious organization. 6. Grab some of your floormates, and make a late night run to Twenty-Something for snacks. 7. Alternate doing your homework in your dorm with occasionally doing it in your lounge, at the Student Union or in the ibrary. You could even organize a study group with some of your classmates and meet weekly, share textbooks, and prep for exams. 8. Play pickup volleyball , basketball , or an impromptu game ot interact. 9. Join an intramural team, or try refereeing a game. 10. Enjoy the last bit of summer weather, and sun yourself on Library Lawn, play frisbee, read a book, or just hang out with friends.
Target
Your college shopping destination!
A MAJOR Decision By: Flora Richards-Gustafson
College offers you a chance to explore your interests so you can turn them into a career. However, if you do not know what college major your interest falls under, it can be harder to know where to start pursuing the career of your dreams. Once you know what subject you would like to specialize in, you can search for colleges that offer that major. Here is a look at some popular college majors: Art An art major is vast and ranges from design to the performing arts. This major requires a student to choose a specialization such as design, fashion, fine arts, theater, dance, folk art, film production, art history, music or photography. According to the Princeton Review, artists are in high demand in the fields of graphic arts and web design. Business A business major will learn about accounting, sales, marketing, finance, human resources and business management and administration. Business majors are good for those who enjoy being in leadership roles or being their own boss. Communications Communication majors are those interested in journalism, business communications, speech communication and rhetoric or digital communications. All these facets of communication focus on clearly expressing information through speaking, writing and/or different types of media. Computer and Information Science (CIS)
The CIS major deals with more than just computer programming and developing codes. It also deals with artificial intelligence, security systems, computer graphics, forensics, systems analysis, data entry, game design, web development, and so on. CIS involves a lot of problem solving that you will apply in the real world, according to the “Princeton Review.” Education The field of education is broad and includes specializations in adult, bilingual, multicultural, elementary and special education. The education major branches into school administration, literacy instruction, curriculum development, student services, testing and measures, research and instructional media. CollegeBoard explains, “Education majors study how people learn and how to best teach them.” Healthcare The field of healthcare, according to Bureau of Labor Statistics, is the largest industry. Of the top 20 in-demand occupations, 10 of them are in healthcare fields. Healthcare majors may specialize in becoming a doctor, nurse, dentist, phlebotomist, alternative medicine, optometrist, sports medicine, mental health, physical therapy and pharmacology. History History majors study subjects relating to national history, architectural or art history or the history of other cultures. Pre-Law Those who major in pre-law go on to be court reporters, lawyers, judges or paralegal professionals.
Preparing for college can be exciting but also nervewracking. Finding the right outfits for the first day and year can help alleviate some unecessary stress. To help put togther some styles, we asked our models KIley, Sara, and Susannah to put togther what they call their perfect outfits. Then they each picked out what their favorite piece was.
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“You can wear a cardigan weather it’s cold or hot. They come in all types of colors and I love to accessorize with them,” said Sara.
“These boots are so comfortable and you can wear them with a lot of styles,” said KIley.
“Oh how I love my skinneys. I love wearing them with boots and leggings. Every girl should have a pair,” said Susannah.
Top Five Career Myths Keep in mind that the road to career happiness is usually full of bumps, curves and tangents rather than a straight, direct path from point A to point B. The following list will help dispel some common career myths with a good dose of "career reality."
By: Gary Lynn Harr
Myth 1 - There is one perfect job for me.
Fact: Many occupations have the potential to satisfy your career goals. Your goal at this point should be to take the "next best step."
Myth 2 - My major is going to lead to my career.
Fact: Most employers care more about your work-related experience (e.g., part-time jobs and internships) and the skills that you have obtained than they do about your major. In fact, most people find themselves working in fields that are only remotely related to their majors, and it is possible to work in almost any career with any major.
Myth 3 - I will have only one career in my lifetime.
Fact: Career planning is an ongoing process. Your goal should be to make the "next best choice" for now, and continue to evaluate and re-evaluate that career once you're in it.
Myth 4 - Liberal Arts, Humanities and Science majors are usually unemployable after college.
Fact: Arts and Sciences majors usually have valuable training in areas such as interpersonal communication, writing, research, and critical thinking. However, the job title may not be obviously related to the title of their academic major.
Myth 5 - Most students know their major and career goals when they enter college. Fact: Some people may have a major or career in mind when they enter college, and a few may actually stick with these original goals. On the other hand, the average student who enters college with an undeclared major changes only one to two times.
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Get your child on the
o C right track! By: Jean Chatzky
So you think your 18-year-old is ready for college. You've prepared him with all the basics. Armed her with all the stuff she needs. Shower caddy? Check. Alarm clock? Check. Mini-refrigerator? Check. But how about basic financial strategies? "I tell parents that if they send their students to college and they've never discussed their credit card APR, if the student doesn't know what that is, then it's time to have a conversation," says Tally Hart, senior adviser at Ohio State University. According to the College Board, parents can bank on shelling out an average $12,127 for tuition, room and board at public colleges this year. But there's another $3,000 likely to be spent on textbooks, supplies, transportation and "other." And students themselves will often be responsible for budgeting that money themselves. So how do you keep your freshman from draining his bank account by the end of the first month? How do you make sure she hasn't — by Thanksgiving — plunked thousands more onto a credit card?
Pause, then plan: At the start of the semester, have students record their purchases. Armed with information, create a budget: Your child will need (with your help) to figure out how much total income they can count on each semester Don’t pay the bank: You need a bank with ample ATM access and it’s best to use debit. Keep credit to a minimum: Emphasize to your child the importance of paying their bills on time. Put a limit on chats: Pre-paid cell phones allow you to stick to a budget. Buy used books: Buying used is an obvious choice and you end up saving a lot.
An HBCU Experience “I love my HIU” By: Stephanie Arterbery HAMPTON
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he HBCU experience is one like no other. The relationships you form and the experiences you encounter are one of a kind. Being an HBCU student myself, I have truly loved the experience and each year being at Hampton University, it grows even more. You wouldn’t think being at an HBCU is diverse, but you have no idea. Since being at Hampton University, I have met people from all over. Being diverse is more than just physical features. It involves the way people speak, dress,and their backgrounds. From all this diversity, I have formed bonds with people who I know will be great friends for life. I spoke with one of them and I asked her how her experience has been and if it’s all that she has expected. Me: What made you choose to attend a historically black college? Shaywanna: “Since I went
to a predominantly white middle school and high school.I wanted to experience what it would be like to learn in an environment surrounded by africanamericans and with rich african history.” Me: How has your experience changed since first arriving at Hampton? Shaywanna: “When I first got to Hampton, I didn’t really know much about it but now that I’ve experienced what Hampton has to offer,I realize that Hampton is where I am supposed to be. I love my HIU.” Me: What does having an HBCU experience mean to you? Shaywanna: “In my opinion, an HBCU alum places one in a network of young black professionals who have experienced the same type of education. Having an HBCU experience, especially at Hampton, provides me with an education for life. There are things learned at Hampton that will follow me for the rest of my life.”
Historically black colleges and universities were institutions that were established prior to 1964. Their mission was to educate black Americans. One of the greatest struggles faced by blacks in the United States has been the struggle to be educated. This desire influnced the development of HBCUs. So why attend an HBCU? Imgine this. Being in an environment surrounded by other educated African Americans striving for the same goals and desires as you are.The experiences and guidance from an HBCU have lead to intellectual growth and development. So what lasting impact does attending an HBCU have? Historically black colleges and universities have been crucial in the development of black professionals. When you leave an HBCU, you will not be the same person you came in as. You wont just be groomed for the real world but life.
What about the History?
A few of my close friends on the Hampton University waterfront. From center, Timothy McCall Jr, top left, Kelsey Daniels, top middle, Shaywanna Harris, and top right, Courtney Brown.
A View from HU
The Hampton University Gospel Choir having some fun,.
To All Incoming Freshmen: My Advice for First Year College Students
By: Sutana Monae For many first year students, going off to college can seem like a fun and exciting adventure into the rest of your life. For others, it may be one of the single most terrifying endeavors you've ever faced. Weather the idea of college may appear frightening or fun, there are a few things every student should keep in mind while transitioning into a new phase of life and coming into their own as a college student. First, it is always a smart thing to take care of your health anytime of the year. Eating a well balanced diet, exercising regularly, and getting an appropriate amount of sleep keeps the mind focused and the body strong. It may sound cliché, but eating a healthy breakfast is essential, because not only does it induce your energy but it kick starts your metabolism, and believe it or not, it can also help fight the notorious Freshmen 15(lbs). Also, make an appoint to eat healthy fruits and vegetables at least twice a day. I know steamed carrots may not sound as appealing as 3 meat pizza, but it is, with no doubt, far healthier. Drinking as much water as you can (8 cups recommended) and taking vitamins are also good. Now, I know as a college student myself, it can be difficult finding time to do much of anything, but if at all possible, try enrolling into a work out class. If you can not enroll, do some in home exercises, there are plenty of DVD's, books and even early morning tv shows that can help you find the exercises that are perfect for you. Staying active and fit is not only an excellent way to relieve stress and clear the
mind, but it keeps you energetic and in good shape. At least two weeks before heading off to school, you should begin implementing a sleep pattern that you can take with you. To avoid throwing off your regularly scheduled bedtime, it is best to never sleep past 3pm. Remember, health is vital to success, if you feel good on the inside, you’ll do go on the outside! On that first day of school, always remember that everyone has a few butterflies when going into something new. However, don’t let exaggerated doubts and unjust insecurities get to you. Be as prepared as you possibly can for class and be sure not to be late. When you get to class say “Hi,” and show your friendliness as best you can. Ask questions, get to know your peers, (you’ll be surprised how much you might have in common) Get to know your teachers and your school staff, remember they are here to help you. Another vital key to college life is retaining the ability to balance out your social life with your scholastic one. It is important that as a college student you recognize the importance of study, perseverance, discipline and hard work. You must prioritize and organize your time. Set aside a specific schedule for the important things such as studying for a quiz or writing a research paper. Instituting study groups can be a great way of feeding the social bug and learning at the same time. In all, just be sure to set aside your fun time when all the hard work is finished. Yea, sometimes its tempting to procrastinate and put off tasks to hang out with friends, but when you receive that A instead of a C, its very well worth it Personal organization is a must too. A clutterd work space only produces a clutterd mind. That is why It’s important to have a neat working enviornment and some type of record keeping method such as a calendar or date book. that way you can always stay ahead and on time with assignments and dates of importance. Like the saying goes, “If you’re early you’re on time, if you’re on time your late, if you’re late, it’s unacceptable!” Lastly, always remember to have fun and enjoy education. There’s nothing like going to a job you hate and there’s nothing like going to a class you loath! College is a stepping stone to the rest of your life, and the foundation for your future. It is a time to come into your own and embrace who you are, while developing into the person you wish to become. So make learning fun while keeping a firm focus, and you’ll be surprised how the expecollege will turn out to be more then just an experience to love but one to treasure as well.
e g e ll e... o y C rienc M xpe E
My personal experience with college spans nearly a decade and a half. I did not complete high school, I never attended high school actually, just never showed up, I was far to busy supporting a heavy drug habit to go to school. I was able to get my GED at the age of 16 in the State of Texas at that time with parental permission and then the local community college welcomed me with open arms. I crammed about 38 credit hours into two summer semesters and a regular semester and with a gpa of 4.0 the University of Houston welcomed me with open arms into their IT program. By Sean Dehoney
Everyone comes to college with expectations and leaves with many experiences and memories. Some good and bad.We interviewed some indiviudals on what there experiences were like.
“I attend a state system school in Pennsylvania and I will be graduating in May. My college years have gone by so fast, and I cannot believe they are almost over. My experience has been positive at times and frustrating at others”
By: Allison Myers
“I dreaded the first Freshman English class. My dread of English classes was impacted by a disagreement with my Senior English class teacher. I was in Miss Mattie Dykes’ class of Freshman English Mattie not only taught us the mechanics of English, she gave us life lessons. After graduation, the ability to write clear instructions for constructing in my General Shop class was a tribute to Mattie.” By Eldon Patterson
“With many of my fellow graduating classmates getting into many of the 4-year universities in the area, I felt some little pangs of jealousy. It just made better sense for me to get my first two years knocked out at our local community college. Not only would I be able to get all my general education courses out of the way, but I wouldn’t have to pay a dime for tuition towards it.” By: Robin M. Schmidt
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