September 2019
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S e p t e m b e r , vo l . 3 0 i s s u e 2
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r a g u o C Van TEAM September 2019
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Anna Nelson
SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER Brody Voge
MANAGING EDITOR REPORTER Sarah Kaufman Krysten Stewart LAYOUT EDITOR REPORTER Henry Sissac Brody Voge COPY EDITOR REPORTER Katherine O’Boyle Michael Kimball PHOTOGRAPHER REPORTER Sydnie Kobza Emily Baumann WEB MANAGER ADVISER Austin Cari Raul Moreno
Social Get
/TheVanCougar
@thevancougar @thevancougar
our
Mission
The VanCougar, a student-run newsmagazine, informs and engages the WSU Vancouver community while practicing the highest standards of timely, ethical journalism.
Corrections s r e t the editor Letto The VanCougar welcomes letters and commentary from members of the WSU Vancouver community on current issues. Letters must include the author’s full name, contact information and WSU affiliation: year and major for students, department for faculty and staff, degree and year graduated for alumni. The VanCougar does not publish anonymous letters. Send letters and commentary to van.vc.editor@ wsu.edu. Once received, letters become property of The VanCougar and are subject to editing for length, clarity and style.
The VanCougar is a source of honest, factual information. If you see an error, we want to address it. Please contact the editor-in-chief at van.vc.editor@wsu for corrections.
on the
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Student Ambassador Betsy Hanrahan laughs with student, Sammee Thacker, at the welcome booths during Week of Welcome. Sydnie Kobza/The VanCougar
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ON THE QUAD: What is the most useful class you have taken? Self-care for struggling students Q&A with Vice chancellor cultural arts & equity hip-hop series
10 you missed 12 advice as a new vancoug 14 Cougar Bites
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ON THE QUAD What is the most useful class you have taken?
Reporter | Michael Kimball
With the start of the school year, classes become one of the hot topics among students. Whether you are asking for advice about a professor or trying to find new ways to challenge yourself, knowing which classes have been most helpful for other students can help pave your journey through college. Here is what WSU Vancouver students said about the most useful classes they have taken.
Shane McCormick, integrated strategic communications major, senior Most useful class: “Between DTC 201 and Principles of Public Relations” “DTC 201, which is a lot of the practical tools in Adobe stuff has been useful to me. I’d like to start in the field where I’m doing creative and strategic things. So having that basic knowledge in video production and graphic design, I’m hoping that’ll help me in a job where I’m providing social media content or helping out with marketing. The second one, a career field I’d like to get into, the class I’m taking right now is Principles of Public Relations, which is the field I want to go into the most. I’m two days into that one but I feel like that’s going to give me a lot of skills and a better idea if that’s something I want to get a masters in eventually.”
Ryan Wagner Sydnie Kobza/The VanCougar
Shane McCormick Sydnie Kobza/The VanCougar
Ryan Wagner, electrical engineering major, senior Most useful class: “Calculus Three” “I’ve had to use a lot of the math that I’ve learned in that class in a lot of my other upper-division classes. It’s provided a lot of skills that I’ve needed to carry on with more advanced stuff we’ve been learning. It’s a basic framework of the skill set we need where later on we specialize further in our classes. So that provided a background for me to choose what I specialize in. I definitely wouldn’t be able to be successful without that class.”
QUAD September 2019
Mary-Fe Gipe, environmental science major, senior Most useful class: “Climate system and climate change class” “I have a radio show and it focuses on the environment, on KougRadio, it’s called EnviroMental with Emily Shirron and Emma Crippen [Monday’s 3 to 4 p.m.] so I get a lot of the information from that class that I use on the radio show from that class. Marc’s [Kramer] teaching method is hard but effective. He would make us explain the different atmospheric processes and he did it in a way where you are not just repeating what he says, you actually understand and can walk through it.”
Mary-Fe Gipe Sydnie Kobza/The VanCougar
Joel Lindberg, entrepreneurship major, senior Most useful class: “Accounting” “Even though it’s not my major, I found it useful and learned a lot about business because I didn’t know much about it beforehand,” Lindberg said, “it’s kind of broad which is why I like it. I feel like I didn’t know much about accounting or how businesses worked with that stuff beforehand. I ended up really enjoying it.”
Joel Lindberg Sydnie Kobza/The VanCougar
Zhanna Brichka, business major, junior Most useful class: “English 102, it was hard, but it helped me in the long run.” “I took APA style for English 102 when I was at Clark, and I didn’t even know how to write any APA papers. I did MLA all through high school so taking an APA English class was so helpful because then all my other classes sometimes need APA.” Zhanna Brichka Sydnie Kobza/The VanCougar
Consider the diverse classes available to you as a student of WSU Vancouver, and which classes can help you achieve your own goals. Fellow VanCougs are always a valuable source of information.
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SELF-CARE FOR S T RU G G L I N G STUDENTS 6
September 2019
Reporter | Krysten Stewart
Students experiencing prolonged stress and leading an unhealthy lifestyle may struggle to succeed academically. Between having assignments to turn in, exams to study for, work and making time for family and friends, a student’s life is often a chaotic juggling act that can take a toll on one’s well-being. Dr. Patience McGinnis, licensed psychologist and WSU Vancouver’s Student Wellness Center manager said, “One’s mental health impacts all activities of daily functioning. Mental health concerns can reduce the energy one has to participate in day-to-day activities: the ability to concentrate and focus on reading, studying, performance on exams and the quality of sleep.” She said stress caused by anxiety, depression and relationship concerns are the most common factors counseling services see. In a moment of extreme stress and anxiety, McGinnis suggests to breathe. “Engage the diaphragm and inhale and exhale slowly. Also, counseling services reserve up to four 30-minute appointments for time sensitive or urgent concerns. We are available to assist students in distress,” she explained. Students cope with stress in a variety of ways. Joel Lindberg, junior entrepreneurship major and Office of Student Involvement Fitness Center staff, uses exercise to escape from his daily stresses.
Dr. Patience McGinnis, Student Wellness Center's manager and psychologist welcomes students at Orientation to tell them about the Student Wellness Center Brody Voge/The VanCougar
“I started getting into exercise just because I got super stressed out from school,” Lindberg said. “It honestly helps so much. Exercise can be whatever you want it to be. It shouldn’t have to be you punishing yourself. It just has to be something to relieve stress.” Junior psychology major Katharine Twombly said, at the end of a long day, especially at the end of the semester, all she does is study, go home and then does nothing besides binge-watching shows and relaxing. However, she also said, “I have to exercise every day or else I get anxiety.” Twombly’s advice to fellow students is to take care of themselves. “If you’re not taking care of yourself, you're more likely to get sick and that makes keeping up on coursework that much harder,” Twombly said. The next time you are feeling guilty for taking time out of your day to indulge in the simple pleasures and self-care, remind yourself that selfcare can lead to a more balanced you, according to the Student Wellness Center psychologists.
The Student Wellness Center, which includes Counseling Services, is located in the Classroom Building, room 160. They provide free counseling services and sameday appointments. You can reach out to Counseling Services at 360546-9238 or van.counseling@wsu. edu.
“One’s mental health impacts all activities of daily functioning. Mental health concerns can reduce the energy one has to participate in day-to-day activities: the ability to concentrate and focus on reading, studying, performance on exams and the quality of sleep.” - Dr. Patience McGinnis
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According to Student Wellness Center Psychologist Allsion Chambers-Dixon, these are the seven forms of self care: sensory, pleasure, mental/mastery, spiritual, emtional, physical and social. Chambers-Dixon suggests taking time out of every day to practice some form of self-care.
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September 2019
Meet the vice Chancellor
Q: A:
What is your educational background?
“My original major was chemistry and I was going to be a dentist. I joined the pre-dental society club on campus and I met a dentist, did an internship and hated it … However, I was so far into my chemistry credit and I had a minor in education, so I thought my back-up option would be to teach. I got a C in one of my chemistry classes so I met with my advisor and they said I was done with school if I wanted to go [with] general science. I graduated that day and started a part-time job teaching right after that.”
Q: A:
Tell me about your position here on campus.
“As the Vice Chancellor of Student Affairs & Enrollment I work in areas such as the admissions and enrollment staff reporting… Some work revolves around the career center, campus recreation, counseling services, etc. I also revolve around the support systems for students outside of the classroom. So, being held responsible in the way we educate students and getting them to network and building their careers and giving those leadership and connection opportunities that helped me with my career. Providing those opportunities for students is why I am here.”
Reporter | Emily Baumann
WSU Vancouver welcomed Domanic Thomas to campus in the beginning of August 2019, to fill his new role of vice chancellor of student affairs and enrollment. The VanCougar sat down with Thomas to learn more about his past experiences and goals for his campus position.
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Q: A:
How do you manage all the responsibilities surrounding your position?
“Having done this work for awhile now, how I manage best is to trust in the people around you and support those around you. Really take in that team approach… I trust these people to be professionals and ask when they need help. I hope to build that connection for people to come talk to me. I am a person with no ego. I will get in a pair of jeans and process applications, bring books to the bookstore and whatever is needed, I will do. I am about advocacy of our [WSU Vancouver’s] work and putting the students first.”
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What are some of the challenges that come with your position?
“I think there are challenges in terms of enrollment, in the broader scope of higher education. In a big picture where the economy is going well, we can look at what is to come in the future. I think that is something I am trying to look around the corner to. How do we make this place (enrollment-wise) sustainable and grow effectively? Not just the number of students who attend, but looking at the number of students who are successful and committed to what we do here at WSU Vancouver and the education opportunities that we offer. I think that growth and doing it the right way is a challenge.”
Q: A:
How does being a first-generation college student affect how you see your job on campus?
“For me being a first-generation college student, it was a gift and a curse. What I thought was such a disadvantage in many situations, turned out to be a gift. I learned how to be assertive, I understood systems to a greater extent compared to my peers who would just call and ask their parents a question… I had to read, make appointments and speak to folks. Then I was able to help navigate these systems for my peers because I learned it from meeting the people in charge.”
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Domanic Thomas, new to campus, prepares for the year at WSU Vancouver as vice chancellor of student affairs & enrollment.
Laura Dutelle/WSU Vancouver
Q: A:
What do you hope to bring to WSU Vancouver?
“[I hope] to help students, staff and the community. I hope to build a sense of place. I want this place to be a touchstone [standard or criterion] for students that pass through. For faculty, I want it to be a place for them to come knowing that they do great work and that they feel good about what they do. I want the students to feel good about being here and know that there is support… This is a place they can rely on and say ‘hey, I contributed and I was supported.’ I want to ensure that this is a place that is meaningful to the people who work here, for the students that go here and for the students that were here [in the past].”
Q: A:
Do you have any general goals for the upcoming academic year?
“My main goal in a year from now is to be considered a valuable part of the community. I think from there, there are going to be some goals met around growth and student successes. But really it is, how can I be a valuable member of the community? The community piece is important because that means I have done work alongside students and staff. That’s what is important to me.”
HIP-HOP & EQUITY 10
September 2019
Reporter | Brody Voge
WSU Vancouver hosts Cultural Arts and Equity Hip-Hop Series
Felix Braffith poses inside his office amdist his diverse library. Brody Voge/The VanCougar
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elix Braffith was hired March 2019 as the director of student equity and outreach. Now, entering his first full semester on the WSU Vancouver campus, he is preparing an outreach program focused around cultural arts, equity, inclusion and hip hop; aptly named the Cultural Arts and Equity Hip-Hop Series. “I see the Cultural Arts and Equity Hip Hop Series as a way to bridge that gap between communities because I know that music brings people together and it speaks to folks across racial lines, across economic lines, across gender, across sexual orientation and religious belief,” Braffith said. “And that’s why I think it’s a good opportunity to do something outside of the box for the sake of equity and inclusion and diversity.” The series of events will take place over eight scheduled dates throughout the school year, with many different kinds of artists, teachers, poets, rappers and activists all scheduled to appear. Braffith explained that each of the guests are “very talented people from very different backgrounds coming to share their stories and connect with the students here at WSU Vancouver and hopefully also providing insight and education to help us become a more culturally responsive and understanding community.” The first event of the series will be held on Sept. 4 and will feature Nikkita Oliver, a politician, lawyer, activist and author who recently published, “Pebbles In My Shoes.” The next guest will be bi-lingual hiphop artist Olmeca. “His music is very powerful and will really resonate with people here on campus,” Braffith said. Because the series offers a varied lineup of keynote guests, Braffith hopes to attract a diverse audience with diverse interests.
Braffith spoke about how these two books aided as an inspiration behind the Cultural Arts and Equity Hip Hop Series.
Brody Voge/The VanCougar
When Braffith began brainstorming this experience, he envisioned it being similar to “MTV Unplugged,” a television show which was first aired in 1989. According to MTV’s website, “MTV Unplugged” is an acclaimed acoustic music series which showcases the work of today’s top artists and introduces new stars. “Everything will be set up in like an “MTV Unplugged” type of format,” Braffith said. “It’s not just, we’re playing music, it’s like, how can we contextualize the meaning of this music to things historically, to contemporary events, to allow students to make those connections to draw upon the learning that can come from the message and the themes throughout the music.” Braffith said he hopes this series will get students to think about the meaning behind songs without being prompted to do so. He also hopes there will be a level of collaboration and inclusion amongst the guest artists and the WSU Vancouver community. According to Braffith, when the artist is on campus, there will be a lunchtime workshop for students and the artist to create things. In the evening, their creations will be showcased and presented in a campus-wide event.
Braffith explained that he hopes this series lays the foundation for a strong sense of community. “It’s just, how do we do things that bring the community together [while] also still making strides towards having it be a more inclusive campus for the populations who historically have been marginalized or voiceless here on campus?” he asked. For any further questions on the Cultural Arts and Equity Hip-Hop Series or the guest performers, you can contact the Equity and Diversity Center at 360-546-9420.
hip-hop series guests All performances are scheduled from 4-6pm.
Nikkita Oliver
09/04
Olmeca
09/25
Turiya Autry
10/09
Michael Tun’cap
11/14
Aisha Fukushima
01/22
Jasiri X
02/20
Dj Kuttin Kandi
03/25
Las Cafetereas
04/24
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September 2019 2. Get a planner. Planners are a great tool to add to your list of school necessities. Not only does a planner help organize assignments, meetings and tests, but it can also be an excellent stress-reliever. Getting into the habit of writing down all due dates in your planner the second you get your syllabus for each class will help you stay on top of your classwork.
1.Do not buy textbooks before attending class. Save your money! WSU Vancouver’s bookstore, “The Bookie,” provides a list of textbooks you “need” to buy, a couple weeks before classes start. However, I advise you to wait until after the first week of classes because some professors put materials on their class lists that are not actually required. So save yourself some money and wait it out. 5. Do not lose your Cougar Card. Cougar cards are essential for your campus success. These cards not only verify you as a WSU Vancouver student but it also allows you access to academic tools on campus: the writing center,
Advice you missed as a new VanCoug
Reporter | Emily Baumann
Whether you are a freshman or a transfer student, adapting to a new school can be tough. Although WSU Vancouver’s orientation tells you the basics on what you need to know, they may have left out a few of these tips and tricks, compiled by The VanCougar, that can be helpful when you are just starting out as a VanCoug.
advising appointments, printing, etc. According to the WSU website, it costs $15 to replace your card if lost and only one card can be activated at a time. Consider attaching your card to a lanyard or a keychain, so your card never leaves your sight.
4. Find a mentor. Whether it be a professor, peer, advisor or graduate, it is always in your best interest to seek advice from someone with knowledge about the university. I recommend starting by getting to know a professor that teaches within your major or you really enjoyed having. Professors are more than happy to give advice pertaining to internships, networking and potential opportunities that can advance you into a career that you are interested in.
3. Do not take too many credits. A common mistake students make is taking on a large course load to complete their degree on time. To avoid this, start by making a plan with your advisor. Be sure to communicate your needs as a student and keep informed on what classes you need to complete your major on time. Creating a healthy balance of credits for each semester can improve your overall focus, organization and mental stability during the school year.
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Letters to the Editor
Do you have a story to tell? Have a unique perspective about things going on at campus, the community or the world? Share your voice with the WSU Vancouver community by writing a letter to the editor! van.vc.editor@wsu.edu
Letters must include your full name, contact information and your affiliation with WSU. The VanCougar will not publish anonymous letters. More details on page 2.
Make a connection with your Library! ---in person, by phone, via email or instant messaging, and also on social media. Circ. Desk 360-546-9680 Email: library@wsu.edu
@wsuvlib
Ref. Desk 360-546-9686 Chat with a Librarian
Facebook.com/wsuvlibrary
instagram.com/wsuvlib
Welcome to Fall Semester
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September 2019
For the average college student, heading out the door for an early class is no easy job. You might be feeling sluggish from writing last night’s paper or from working on a lab write up, which can slow you down in the morning, leaving you no choice but to skip the most important meal of the day. Fortunately, these four breakfast options can quickly solve the problem, having you out the door with morning fuel in no time. Parfaits are not only packed with protein and flavor, but are also super portable, making them easy to carry to class. Start by throwing some Greek yogurt, fresh strawberries, blueberries, raspberries and/or other fruits of your choice into a mason jar or cup. Make sure to create layers between the fruits and yogurt, giving the parfait a good balance of ingredients. Then to top it off with more texture, add granola as the final layer, giving your parfait the perfect crunch.
The great thing about peanut butter and banana toast is that it is hardly a recipe and it hardly takes any time to make. This breakfast food is sweet, filling, crunchy and creamy. This recipe only has four simple steps. First, you start by toasting two slices of bread, then spread peanut butter on each slice. Next, add some banana slices and finally drizzle honey and granola on top for extra flavor. Although oatmeal sometimes taste bland, adding the right ingredients can spice it up, making it your go-to breakfast food. According to a recipe from FeelGoodFoodie.net, start by combining a cup of water or milk in a saucepan and bringing it to a boil. Then, stir in a half cup of oats, reduce to medium heat and let it cook for one to two minutes, or until it is a mushy texture. Finally, cover the oatmeal with toppings of your choice. I recommend layering it with some cinnamon, dried fruits and nuts.
Here’s the great thing about smoothies: there are endless possibilities and variety when it comes to making them. Whether you add oranges, berries, apples or bananas, this drink is guaranteed to be filling and refreshing. My all-time favorite smoothie a triple-berry blend. It’s made by blending a mix of blackberries, strawberries and raspberries, with a splash of milk, ice and sugar together. Although morning classes can be a drag, these four simple breakfast foods can help break the habit of skipping the most beneficial meal of the day while also keeping you refreshed and focused for school..
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September 2019
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september
m a r k yo u r c a l e n da r . . .
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Labor Day Holiday University Closed
thurs.
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ROAR Make-Up 4 p.m. – 8 p.m. Firstenburg Student Commons
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Back to School 5k 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. WSU Vancouver Grounds
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wed.
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Global Learning Fair 10:30 a.m. – 12 p.m. Quad
Capture the Flag 7 p.m. – 10 p.m. Quad
Next issue of the vancougar on stands Oct. 1 WSU Vancouver's Peace Pole that states, "May Peace Prevail On Earth," in 13 languages.
Photo courtesy of WSU Vancouver
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September 2019