8.27.18- Fourth Estate

FOURTH ESTATE August 27, 2018 Volume 6 Issue 1

@ivestate | gmufourthestate.com

GEORGE MASON UNIVERSITY'S STUDENT NEWSPAPER

WELCOME BACK TO MASON So What’s Next? page 3

NEWS

CULTURE

Tuition increases for the 2018-2019 year amid budget decreases and President Cabrera’s salary increase makes him the highest paid university president of any Virginia public institution.

Fall sports kick off with upcoming events for Mason cross-country, soccer, volleyball and more.

Get some tips on how to adjust to getting back to school, feel welcomed as a transfer, and more.

Be prepared to avoid stress, do well in class and take care of yourself.

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OPINIONS

SPORTS

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The cost of staying alive: why life-saving medicines and treatments such as insulin are too expensive for many people. page 14

page 17

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8.27.2018

FOURTH ESTATE We are always recruiting volunteers for: For all inquiries, please email - WRITERS - VIDEOGRAPHERS - ILLUSTRATORS - COPY EDITORS - PHOTOGRAPHERS

a resume and cover letter or sample to: masonfourthestate@gmail.com

GMUFOURTHESTATE.COM @IVESTATE

ALEXANDER SHEDD Editor-in-Chief

BASMA HUMADI Managing Editor

IZZ LAMAGDELEINE Copy Chief

TISHA HERRERA News Editor

OLIVIA VERMANE

Assistant News Editor

MONICA ECHOLS Culture Editor

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

Dear Patriots,

HAILEY BULLIS

Assistant Culture Editor

JAMIE BELIVEAU Opinions Editor

With a new year comes a new Fourth Estate. As we say goodbye to many of our editors from last year, including our previous Editors-in-Chief, we welcome a brand new staff, and a brand new paper.

Student journalism is about connectivity and community. Let this newspaper be your guide to life at Mason, and a platform for your voice as a member of our community. If you have a concern, or an idea, or a thought, write a letter to me at masonfourthestate@gmail.com.

NATALIE HEAVREN Sports Editor

DANA NICKEL LAUREN SULLIVAN Co-Longform Editors

KRISTEN TALMAN

GMU Korea Coordinator

ALLIE THOMPSON

Want to write an article? Or a comic? Or help us make videos for our brand new Online section? Stop by Student Media in the bottom floor of the Hub and introduce yourself. Our newspaper is your newspaper.

This year, you’ll see many changes in the paper. We’re introducing a new comics section and reorganizing much of what you saw last year. We’re also excited to announce a brand new collaboration with The Voice of GMU Korea, the publication from our campus in South Korea.

Photo Editor

ALLY MCALPINE Art Director

BILLY FERGUSON Online Director

ANDREA LUGO

Social Media Editor

DOMINIQUE BERNARDINO

This year, we’re trying to provide more content made by students, and by ourselves. We’re here for you first and foremost. Don’t be afraid to reach out.

If you’re looking for tips to get adjusted to the new school year, check out this week’s Culture section. If you’re interested in what’s been going on at Mason over the summer, take a look at News. And if there’s anything you want to see or you think we could do better, let us know.

Multimedia Editor

EMMETT SMITH

Distribution Manager

KATHRYN MANGUS Director

DAVID CARROLL Associate Director

JASON HARTSEL

Take care of yourself this year. Don’t work too hard and don’t get burnt out too early. And don’t forget to explore everything Mason has to offer!

Assistant Director

JESSICA SMITH

Business Office Manager

Sincerely, Your Editor-in-Chief,

COVER PHOTO CREDITS

Alexander Shedd

Fourth Estate/ Tisha Herrera Sports/ courtesy of Mason Athletics

George Mason University Mail stop 2C5 4400 University Drive Fairfax, Va. 22030 Phone 703-993-2950

Fourth Estate is printed each Monday for George Mason University and its surrounding Fairfax community.

The editors of Fourth Estate have exclusive authority over the content that is published.

There are no outside parties that play a role in the newspaper’s content, and should there be a question or complaint regarding this policy, the Editor-in-Chief should be notified at the email provided.

Fourth Estate is a free publication, limit one copy per person. Additional copies are 25 cents payable to the Office of Student Media.

Culture/ Angelique Arintok Opinions/ courtesy of touchny.org Lifestyle/ Sanjana Raghavan

NEWS

GMUFOURTHESTATE.COM @IVESTATE

8.27.2018

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MASON FRESHMAN MOVE-IN Class of 2022 move into their dorms TISHA HERRERA, NEWS EDITOR

With all hands-on-deck, MoveCrew volunteers were the first interactions for the newly arrived freshmen and their families. The Patriot was also a frequent encounter and would take pictures with new students and their parents.

Many students expressed their ideas of what they hoped to accomplish while at Mason and what they are looking forward to, from academics to extracurriculars.

Reagan Overeem, a community health major, said she looks forward to “succeeding in my biology class, because that’s [my favorite subject],” and added, “joining a lot of new clubs is important to me — especially

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getting into community service.”

Similarly, Natalie Baker, a biology major, was also eager to start her first year at Mason.

“I’m looking forward to the amount of school spirit [Mason] has, because that was a big part of my life in high school, and I’m glad that I get to carry it on here,” Baker said. She added that her main focus is to “accomplish college; I’m very excited for what’s to come.”

Baker was also grateful for Mason’s MoveCrew, stating “I’m so thankful that they were here [to help] and that there were so many of them.”

It was clear the freshmen have a lot they want to accomplish before they graduate. Many of them have a balance of work and play.

“At Mason, I hope to make a lot of friends, and get my education,” cybersecurity major Elijah Gunter said.

FOURTH ESTATE/Tisha Herrera

On Aug. 24, more than two thousand Mason freshmen poured into their dorms and unpacked with the assistance of their parents, siblings and Mason’s MoveCrew, according to a resident advisor.

“That’s pretty much what I’m looking forward to — just having a lot of fun.”

Gunter also mentioned he is “looking forward to [joining] some engineering clubs to help me out as well.”

While not every freshman has picked their major, some noted the importance of using Mason to achieve their goals.

Undeclared Liz Klein stated that her goals while at Mason will be

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“definitely graduating, picking a major and getting an actual job...

Getting to experience the real world and being prepared for it.”

Klein continued, “I thought about joining a sorority, or possibly joining a club...maybe the Catholic Ministry program. Definitely one [club or community] at least.”

While not every student is the same, most had the similar objective of passing their classes. However, for

some freshmen like Danny Ampoh, that means achieving the absolute best they can while at Mason.

“Just be the best student I can,” said Ampoh.

In terms of his goals, the mechanical engineering major also said he wished to obtain a 4.0 GPA throughout college, as well as hold leadership positions to help the community of Mason.

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NEWS

8.27.2018

GMUFOURTHESTATE.COM @IVESTATE

DEMONSTRATORS OUTNUMBERED BY COUNTERPROTESTERS AT UNITE THE RIGHT 2 40 Activist groups rallied in d.C. To protest the second unite the right rally TISHA HERRERA, NEWS EDITOR; DANA NICKEL, LONGFORM EDITOR

Counterprotesters from several organizations lined the streets, holding signs and yelling insults at the alt-right members. Only two alt-right supporters could be seen, one male and one female, and were heavily guarded by police. The two declined to comment.

The small group of counterprotesters, who had been in Lafayette Square for hours already when the rally began, listened as speakers were placed on a portable stage and condemned the impending Unite the Right 2 rally that was scheduled at 5:30 p.m. in the same spot they all had gathered.

talked down to because we’re young,” Tello Salas said. He adds that millennials are treated like “we don’t have an opinion,” but if they do, “[we] have bad opinions, or our opinions are too much or something.”

He stated that students can make a difference at Mason by “getting involved on campus and advocating for the minority communities—giving back to communities and getting involved in marginalized communities that are being attacked,” but emphasized that “the first place to start [advocating] is at Mason.”

A group of three student protesters from Antifa, a conglomerate of anti-fascist militant groups, drove from Connecticut and spoke about their views of what they hoped to accomplish at the Unite the Right 2 rally.

The Antifa protesters— Victor, Jess, and a third who declined to give his name— attended the counterprotest, as Victor put it, “to stomp out white

supremacy.” The three noted how symbolic and powerful it was that counterprotesters were all able to attend the rally in unity in front of the White House.

The protesters also noted the importance for people of all ages to “educate [themselves] on the topics [in the news],” and “to be aware of what’s happening and speak out against hateful speech, speak out against hateful groups that are trying to gain a foothold in the public’s view.”

The unnamed male added that “it’s important to actively reject the hate that’s coming at [minorities] right now,” and for Mason students to not forget that “you have a voice—you’re important, so speak up.”

Lafayette Square is often the site of protests and rallies, either in support of or in opposition to the current federal administration. Amitzah, a 61-year-old woman who donned a homemade shirt which read “I love Trump Reelect President 2020 [sic], ” told Fourth Estate that she sits on

FOURTH ESTATE/Tisha Herrera

On the anniversary of the infamous Aug. 12, 2017 rally in Charlottesville that left one dead, hundreds of counterprotesters gathered around Foggy Bottom-GWU Station and prepared to march to Lafayette Square. They expected the arrival of 400 self-proclaimed Neo-Nazis and other demonstrators, popularly known collectively as the alt-right movement. Though the number of alt-right supporters was actually closer to 20, it did not denture the palpable surge of anger from counterprotesters.

a bench facing the White House in Lafayette Square every morning to show President Trump that she supports him.

Amitzah stated that she supports the president, and opposes Muslims entering or residing in the U.S. as she “was a victim of a Muslim” from her former husband. She declined to give

any further comments.

Amitzah was in the minority opinion that day. Only about 20 alt-right members came to D.C. in support of their rally, though it was originally scheduled for 400 attendees. The counterprotest had an estimated 1,000 protesters in attendance.

A representative from the Act Now to Stop War and End Racism (ANSWER) Coalition, who declined to give their name, passed out flyers promoting their group’s “anti-hate” message and commented on the importance for people to attend similar demonstrations, “not just today, but every day.”

The representative stated that they were currently a college student and stressed how important it was for young people to engage both their communities and in the government.

Gabriel Tello Salas, the cultural chair from the Hispanic Student Association at Mason, was among the crowd of counterprotesters as he demonstrated with other Mason Latino organizations in opposition of the alt-right supporters. Tello Salas stated his reason for being at the counterprotest was “for support—I’m completely against what the [Unite the Right 2] rally stands for.”

“The millennials’ generation still gets

FOURTH ESTATE/Tisha Herrera

Before the scheduled rally of alt-right supporters, there was a large crowd of counterprotesters outside the White House.

NEWS

GMUFOURTHESTATE.COM @IVESTATE

8.27.2018

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MASON TUITION INCREASES FOR 2018-2019 SCHOOL YEAR Angel Cabrera highest paid university president in Virginia SANJANA RAGHAVAN. STAFF WRITER

According to the 2018-2019 Budget Executive Summary by the Office of Budget and Planning at Mason, the average increase in tuition for other Virginia public colleges was $469, as compared to Mason’s increase of $624. Similarly, the average Virginia public college increased tuition by 3.8 percent, versus Mason’s increase in tuition by 5.5 percent. Still, according to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, the average tuition for 2018-19 was $12,937, whereas Mason’s tuition for the 2018 fiscal year is $11,924.

Not all students knew about the change in tuition.

“I was not aware of any tuition increase and I wish I had been because part of the reason I chose GMU was [because] of the decent tuition cost compared to other colleges,” sophomore Jordan Hudson

said. “I’m now going to have to work even harder after graduation in order to cover the cost for the new tuition.”

president” out of all of Virginia’s public institutions, with “a cool base salary of $531,400.”

Other students are not as upset.

Furthermore, a transcript for the Board of Visitors meeting on March 2018 shows that on July 10, 2017, Cabrera received a 3% increase to his base salary, putting it at $563,927.

“If it was $5000 or a different amount, then I’d be upset,” freshman Christopher Brewer said.

In their executive summary, the Office of Budget and Planning point to a decrease in state support. Indeed, the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, a nonpartisan think tank, reports that Virginia ranks among the worst in providing state support for college students. This year, about half of the 12 states they studied increased funding in 2018, but Virginia was among the states which decreased funding even further, according to watchdog.org.

The Office of Budget and Planning claim in their executive summary that tuition has only been increased “after other revenue opportunities… have been incorporated into the plan.”

However, according to an article on watchdog.org, President Ángel Cabrera is “the highest-earning

Additionally, a transcript for the Board of Visitors meeting on May 2018 shows there are six investigations of fraud, waste and abuse in progress.

Before the meeting, there was one finished investigation, and the incident was deemed “isolated in nature.”

In a press release on May 2018 about the approved budget, Cabrera discussed the changes.

“We have an agreement with our Board of Visitors that our tuition will be below the median of the tuition charged by other state doctoral universities,” Cabrera said. “What we charge our students is significantly below that median while their outcomes are well above.”

FOURTH ESTATE/Sanjana Raghavan

Tuition for 2018-19 school year increased by $908 for in-state students, or 4 percent, and increased by $1,922 for out-of-state students, or 4.2 percent. This figure includes tuition, fees, room and board.

NEW BIKE CHECKOUT PROGRAM ON CAMPUS On My Way-Mason welcomes new bike share program JULIE FRAPPIER, STAFF WRITER

According to the Mason Parking & Transportation Office, if students check out a bike on a Friday or Saturday, it does not have to be returned until Sunday night. They are free to use around campus for students’ leisure.

“The bikes have a sleek Mason design, a basket, a bell, a gear shift, locks, breaks, as well as a helmet,” according to the Office of Sustainability.

Supported by the Mason Office of Sustainability and Office of Transportation, this project has been years in the making. Mason can now better encourage a biking culture on campus and utilize its bike lanes. It can

improve student health, and promotes alternative modes of transportation.

“Mason has 2 designated trails on campus[,] Yellow Birch Trail – [a] 1.6 mile walking/running trail on the sidewalks around Patriot Circle and Red Dogwood Trail – [a] 1.3 mile

multi-purpose trail along Campus Drive,” according to Mason’s Office of Recreation.

For more information, check out their website, or for feedback on their pilot program, email them at transpo@gmu.edu.

Photo courtesy of Amanda Taglieri/ Office of Sustainability

Photo courtesy of Amanda Taglieri/ Office of Sustainability

Starting Aug. 27, Mason will launch a new bike checkout program.

Bikes are available in front of the Recreation and Athletic Complex (RAC) to anyone with a valid Mason ID. Students can check out a bike for a day at no charge.

NEWS

GMUFOURTHESTATE.COM @IVESTATE

8.27.2018

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STUDYING ABROAD AT MASON’S KOREA CAMPUS Students speak on the differences between mason’s fairfax and south korea campuses MARINA TONEY, STAFF WRITER

The degrees offered are in the following majors: management, accounting, finance, economics, global affairs, conflict analysis and resolution and computer game design.

Mason Korea offers students in Fairfax a chance to experience all that South Korea has to offer on a campus 25 miles away from Seoul. Following in its predecessor’s footsteps, the campus is home to “over 240 students from around the world“ according to masonkorea.gmu.edu, and 450 undergraduate students overall. But, sharing the same name is only one of a few similarities between the two campuses.

Even with the smaller course selection, Mason students are still able to have a great study abroad experience.

While any student, freshman to graduate, can attend Mason Korea either on exchange or as a full-time student, the global campus does not offer nearly as many majors or courses as the main campus. Gbemi Disu, Chief Business Officer at Mason Korea, took note of this fact.

“While all majors are also welcome to study at Mason Korea, it is probably more convenient for certain majors than others as the campus doesn’t offer the full breadth of courses that you would find at the Fairfax campus,” Disu said.

“Over the past 4 years, approximately 80 students from the Fairfax campus have studied for either one or two semesters at the Korea campus… as the increase in Hallyu (international popularity of Korean pop culture) occurs, Mason Korea will continue to be a great study abroad option for those students that enjoy Korean pop culture, dramas and delicious food,” Disu said.

As with attending any school, an important factor is the price of tuition.

According to admissions.gmu.edu, it costs approximately $12,642 a year for an in-state student to attend George Mason University, and $35,922 for an out-of-state student. Mason Korea, on the other hand, charges students $10,000 a semester ($20,000 per year) in tuition according to the masonkorea.gmu.edu.

This drastic change in price proved to be a relief for junior creative writing major Jazmine Jules, who studied abroad at Mason Korea.

“I basically went to Mason Korea for free because the tuition was only $10,000 and I had a little over $9,000 a semester to go towards the cost,” Jules said. “In Fairfax, $9,000 a semester only puts a dent in my attendance and I normally have to use a payment plan to afford going.”

Another important factor is housing.

In Fairfax, living on campus is estimated to be $12,630 a year, but this is dependent upon the type of housing a student applies for, according to admission.gmu.edu. At Mason Korea, this price drops drastically to $1,000 to $1,500 for all students living on campus according to Disu.

Junior Courtney James, a Mason student who studied abroad at Mason Korea, said the savings from the price difference let her travel around Korea more freely.

“Overall, I think housing was the biggest price difference and because I was not spending as much on housing, I was able to go out and travel around

CONSTRUCTION ON ROBINSON HALL BEGINS Mason’s new building set to open in 2021

FOURTH ESTATE/Tisha Herrera

ALEXA HERRERIAS, STAFF WRITER

Construction on Robinson Hall, one of the oldest buildings on campus, began this summer. Mason’s administration decided to rebuild the building because the underground heating and cooling infrastructure within it were very old and damaged.

The new structure will be the central location for the College of Humanities and Social Sciences, with

classrooms that are expected to accommodate between 27 to 120 students.

It will also contain large open areas, a MIX, a meditation garden and a terraced amphitheater.

The statue is expected to be returned to its original position in the fall of 2021.

Roger Wilkins Plaza (formerly North Plaza) will be reconstructed to extend from Robinson Hall all the way to Southside Dining Hall. Additionally, the clock tower in Wilkins Plaza will be removed this fall and stored in According to Mason’s Mason’s warehouse until 2020. website, the construc- It will stand separate from the new tion of the proposed Robinson Hall next to the incoming 218,000 square foot, terraced amphitheater. six-floor building has been projected Due to construction, all areas to cost around $160 million dollars. surrounding Robinson A has been Student traffic congestion, Harris closed off to the public, in addition Theatre, Roger Wilkins Plaza, and the to the courtyard between Robinson B Mason statue will all be affected by this and SUB 1. construction project.

According to Mason’s website, the new The Mason statue will remain in its structure is projected to be completed current location until 2020. However, in the spring of 2021, but the entire the statue will then be moved to Holton project will be done by the spring of Plaza, until construction is completed. 2022.

Korea more which helped me enjoy my time abroad so much more,” James said.

The last important factor is financial aid. Just like the Fairfax campus, Mason Korea accepts federal financial aid, but only if the student is a U.S. Citizen or non-citizen with a social security number, according to Disu.

There are also multiple scholarships listed on masonkorea.gmu. edu including: Entrance, Merit, Leadership, and Transition to Fairfax which assists Mason Korea students with attending Mason’s Fairfax campus. All students who attend Mason Korea are encouraged to

attend the Fairfax campus in order to continue with their advanced coursework needed for them to graduate, according to masonkorea. gmu.edu.

Mason Korea, although an extension of George Mason University, packs many of the same benefits as the Fairfax campus, and even a few more (i.e. less expensive tuition and housing). The experience is once in a lifetime and one that all George Mason students have the opportunity to partake in.

CRIME ON CAMPUS: MASON’S WEEKLY LOG EMMA HAUS, STAFF WRITER The crime activity on and around Mason’s Fairfax campus has changed significantly between this year and last. Not including drug violations, the crime log throughout the summer documented that violations have decreased by almost half in 2018.

2017 was roughly 49, whereas the average in 2018 was 35.7.

Between school years, this data shows a significant decrease in violations and crimes.

In June 2017, a rough estimate of 28 crime violations were recorded. Yet, in June of 2018 there were roughly 18 violations. July 2017 had roughly 30 violations, but July 2018 totaled 13 violations.

Throughout different times of the year, patterns in crime tend to differ.

Within the month of January, there were mostly burglary or stalker cases reported on-campus, whereas April and May of 2018 included mostly underage drinking and disorderly conduct cases.

Across the board, these violations during the school year increased, which could be due to the increased student population on campus. The average amount of violations in

The crime log continues to be published by the Mason police throughout the semester to keep track of documented incidents on campus.

FOURTH ESTATE/ Emma Haus

Almost half a century after George Mason University was founded in Fairfax in 1949, a satellite campus in Incheon, South Korea, was established.

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CULTURE

8.27.2018

ACTIVISTS ON CAMPUS

GMUFOURTHESTATE.COM @IVESTATE

From voter registration to helping students call senators, Mason student organizations do it all

HAILEY BULLIS, ASSISTANT CULTURE EDITOR

“I think we as students do not have a voice to the Board of Visitors,” Deriso said. “Our elected student president can sit in on board meetings but they have no speaking privileges. So Student Power wants to facilitate that voice so the people who are in control know what the students are actually thinking and what the students actually need.”

This year, five Student Power members plan to help register students to vote NAACP takes pride in the fact that for a fellowship they were granted. they are not just representatives, but The organization went to New Mexico educators as well. This can be seen in over the summer for voter registration the events Mason’s NAACP has lined training. up for this school year.

Deriso also had advice for other student “This year we will be having a career activists on campus. readiness expo for students of color “You may not think your voice is heard, offering them university resources as especially to those who hold power, but well as opportunities for mentorship,” when we collectivize our power our said Fishburne. “We will also host local voices are much stronger and we can area middle- and high-school aged make real change by coming together students for a civic engagement field as students to support each other,” trip teaching them about the need for Deriso said. political action even amongst youth.”

Finally, Generation Action, a student Along with this, Mason NAACP plans organization that branches off of to host a day of remembrance for Planned Parenthood, provides sexual victims of police brutality, and is also and reproductive education, spreads planning a “Black Business Exposition” awareness about consent, and wants to for this fall as well. make menstrual products more widely Other student organizations, such available to everyone on campus. as Mason DREAMers, are more The president of Generation Action, specific in what they support. Mason Chanel Sherwood, is jump-starting a DREAMers fight to keep the immicampaign to make the Fairfax campus gration policy Deferred Action for start providing free and accessible Childhood Arrivals (DACA), while menstrual products.

George Mason Democrats and the George Mason College Republicans “Just have things be way more menstrualso have specific goals in supporting ation-friendly for folks of any gender expression,” Sherwood said about her their respective parties. project. “People who menstruate defiMeanwhile, Student Power is an organitely need to be recognized at George nization that wants to help support Mason because that’s a huge problem other student activist organizations. we have when you can’t even go to the “I want Student Power to be a student health office and get those basic resource for other progressive student health products that you need to live

Generation Action plans to hold regular tabling events where students can sign on to become a Planned Parenthood Action Fund member, where students can receive alerts on causes Planned Parenthood may be supporting.

They will also hold special tabling events if new bills at the state or federal level are introduced that contradict the goals of Generation Action, and will have the phone numbers of senators available so students can come and call their senator about the bill.

Photo Courtesy of Sara Desiro

NAACP, for example, supports all students of color. According to Mason’s NAACP Public Relations Chair, Devan Fishburne, “Though predominantly thought of as a Black organization, the Mason NAACP also works with Hispanic, Asian, and Native American organizations in the same way that though we are a college organization, we advocate for all of Fairfax, Virginia, and America’s oppressed persons.”

your daily life.”

Although Generation Action branched off of Planned Parenthood, the organization is trying to make themselves more campus-oriented.

“Even though we are associated with Planned Parenthood, people who don’t agree with or like Planned Parenthood don’t have anything to fear from us,” Sherwood said.

Photo Courtesy of Sara Desiro

[organizations] who need support making a flyer or need support at an event they have,” said Sara Deriso, president of GMU Student Power. “I To name a few, there is Student want Student Power to be a resource Power, the National Association for for other [organizations] to come to the Advancement of Colored People when they need help.”

(NAACP), George Mason Democrats Beyond that, Student Power plans to and their counterpart George Mason attend other organizations’ meetings in College Republicans, Generation an effort to create a more unified force Action at George Mason University, for change. Student Power also focuses and Mason DREAMers. These orga- heavily on having no tuition price hikes nizations all represent different causes for students and no tuition cost for and students at Mason. college.

Photo Courtesy of Devan Fishbourne

Being a university just outside of Washington D.C., it’s no surprise that there are multiple organizations within Mason that facilitate student activism.

CULTURE

GMUFOURTHESTATE.COM @IVESTATE

8.27.2018

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START THE SCHOOL YEAR OFF RIGHT Four tips to hit the ground running in september MONICA ECHOLS, CULTURE EDITOR

FOURTH ESTATE/MONICA ECHOLS

It’s back to school time again. Whether it’s your first semester in college or your last, transitioning from summer break to school can be difficult for any student. If you’re one of the many students who struggle with readjusting to school after being away for months on summer vacation, here are some tips to help you get back on track this semester.

Get your sleep schedule back on track: For those who spent their summer relaxing and sleeping in, the adjustment from sleeping until

noon to waking up for a 9 a.m. class can be difficult. One way to ease the transition is to set an alarm for slightly earlier than you’re used to waking up a few days before your first class. If you haven’t done this, and you find yourself yawning through class, try going to bed earlier. You don’t have to suddenly go from falling asleep at 1 a.m. to being tucked in bed by 8 p.m. Simply going to bed 15 to 30 minutes earlier each night can help you get a good night’s sleep so you’ll feel refreshed and alert for all of your classes.

Keep track of your school work and other activities: Now that school is back in session, it is only a matter of time before you get that dreaded first assignment. Before you know it, other assignments start piling in, and you can easily find yourself drowning in a sea of work. Add in any jobs or extracurricular activities and you can become overwhelmed trying to keep track of it all. An easy way to stay

on top of your busy schedule is to use a calendar or planner. Whether you use a physical planner or an app, having a system to keep track of your schedule can be helpful. As soon as you get your syllabus, take note of important dates such as test dates and due dates for major assignments. Update your calendar regularly to include your work schedule, homework assignments, and other activities so you don’t fall behind.

Figure out what study habits work for you: Once you know what your assignments are, the next step is to actually do the work. It’s best to figure out an effective study system early in the semester so you don’t struggle later when your workload gets more intense.

Does working in a neat, quiet environment help you focus? Perhaps doing your work in the library or a study room might be best for you. Do you work best when you have other people to talk to? Try forming a study group.

Exchange phone numbers with a few

people in your classes so you can study together or exchange any notes you may have missed. Start forming good study habits now to carry you through the semester.

Get involved on campus: School work is important, but it is also important to have fun. Joining a club or student organization is a great way to meet new people and participate in fun activities. Clubs can also help you network and develop new skills. Mason has more than 350 organizations, so you’re bound to find something you like. Events like the GetConnected Fair on Sept. 5, and The Source, a similar event that focuses on Black student organizations, on Sept. 7, allow you to see what clubs Mason has to offer its students. Many clubs also hold interest meetings during the first few weeks of the semester. Getting involved on campus can help you have an active social life and form a community with other students.

HIDDEN HANGOUTS: EPICURE CAFE Epicure Cafe off Lee Highway has music, good decor, and authentic Mediterranean dishes KIM BARTENFELDER, STAFF WRITER

posters and advertisements to graphic designs and by-hand art, images flood the eyes and imagination upon entrance. Epicure Cafe prides itself Especially for Mason students, Fairfax with this unique display of local artistry means a few things: music and food. because they are rooted in the firm There’s no better way to escape the belief that kindness, inclusivity and mundanity of work than with delicious creativity help individuals flourish in a Mediterranean cuisine and live music positive and fun atmosphere. at the Epicure Cafe, located off Lee Not only does the music and decor Highway, only a short drive from exceed expectations, but so does campus. the menu. Epicure Cafe embodies The Epicure Cafe, known for its open authentic Mediterranean-style dishes. mic nights hosted on Mondays and Without a doubt, a fan favorite is the Thursdays, captures the essence of hummus and pita bread. However, the community and free-spiritedness. menu expands to gyros, falafel, kabobs, Local artists are highly encouraged to kookoo sabzi sub and even musically perform their music to loyal cafe fans as themed pizza. With personality-filled well as newcomers. Artists are allotted food with roots in flavor, the Epicure two songs per performance, allowing Cafe hones in on a modern twist to audiences to experience local talent, traditional style. good times and shared appreciation for the people that surround them.

On top of live performances, artists have the opportunity to display their artwork throughout the cafe. From

FOURTH ESTATE/KIM BARTENFELDER

The beginning of a new semester at Mason is a breath of fresh air, but the return to Fairfax is a whirlwind of an experience.

FACES OF MASON delves into the lives of Mason students, faculty or alumni, and organizations every week. This week we take a close look at Mason alumni Asha Athman and Ashley Hill, professor Patricia Yvette Boudinot, and Mason organization Anointed Vessels of Unity. If you know of a Mason student, faculty member, alumnus or alumna, or organization that would like to be featured on FACES OF MASON please submit your request via: https://goo.gl/HZ4SMd INTERVIEWS BY HAILEY BULLIS, BASMA HUMADI, KRISTEN KOEGLER

P R O F E S S O R , PAT R I C I A Y V E T T E B O U D I N O T What do you teach at Mason and why?

What motivates you to get up in the morning?

I teach at the GGS department — or Geography and Geoinformation Sciences. I studied geography for eight years at the University of Nice, France, and taught geography since the first day I became an instructor.

What motivates me every morning is a new beginning.

Every morning is a new day to learn and impact my environment to either my students or my personal life.

What brought you to Mason?

Photo Courtesy of Patricia Yvette Boudinot

My daughter is a GMU alumni and, thanks to her, while she was a GMU student, I heard a lot about Mason. This explains why I was eager to join the Mason culture.

What do you enjoy most about Mason?

What I enjoy most about the university is its diversity and its openness. At Mason I truly get a unique experience of cultures and discussions that I cannot get anywhere else.

I enjoy taking a walk on campus and being able to hear different languages or being able to see people dressed up in their cultural clothing. Needless to say, my favorite time is the International Week in April that showcases culture from all around and the diversity of every Mason Patriot.

Have you ever traveled to another country? Tell us about it.

I have traveled to quite a few countries. I was born in France, so I have traveled to most of the countries of Western Europe and Scandinavia. My husband and I visited Asia, North Africa and the Sub-Saharan Africa but my most memorable experience I had would be in Senegal where I strongly felt the need of developing a humanitarian project in an orphanage located in Kabrousse: planting orange trees which would bring natural nutrients to the kids.

Have you traveled anywhere recently or do you plan to?

I am planning a trip to the Shetland islands next summer.

I look forward to hearing the Scottish accent and admiring the unique sceneries.

A L U M N A , A S H A AT H M A N Where/What is your scholarship?

I completed a Boren Scholarship, which is a scholarship or fellowship that is funded by the National Security Education Program for students to study abroad for a period. It is usually between 6 to 9 months, and allows students to be able to study a critical foreign language for a certain amount of time. I received the scholarship to study Arabic, and studied Arabic in Jordan for nine months. I did three-quarters of study at a language institute in its capital.

Photo Courtesy of Asha Athman

What are your goals for the future?

I’m currently looking for work because I am in the process of graduating. I studied global affairs with a concentration in international development and Middle East and North Africa. I am also now pursuing a degree in Arabic because when I did the scholarship I had a minor in Arabic. Now, I’m working on the major, as well as applying for work that is related to the Middle East or Africa.

What is something you learned during your time at George Mason University?

I think one of the most important things that I learned

during my time at Mason is recognizing that all issues have multiple perspectives. I got that from my classes because I studied global affairs, so that brings together a lot of students and teachers that come from different walks of life and different parts of the world.

What advice do you have for people seeking the same kind of internship/fellowship that you received?

I think starting early on is really important… These federal fellowships and scholarships, sometimes you have to apply for them more than one time in order to get it... I think applying for things more than one time and really putting the effort in doing a lot of different applications helps you because it shows you have a commitment to study abroad.

At the same time it helps you because it helps you learn how to present yourself well, while you also learn a lot about yourself by doing different types of applications. Even if you don’t get something or you do get something you will have gotten something out of the application process itself, and I think that really helps you in the future.

LIFESTYLE

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4.30.2018

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ALUMNA, ASHLEY HILL What have you learned since graduating from Mason?

Since graduating from Mason, I have learned more than I can put on paper – and honestly, I am still learning the lessons I learned!

My top three lessons I’m still learning are: 1. You are ready and you will be okay. After graduating, I was scared I was not ready for life after college. Life came at me with all it had and I felt like the challenges would never end. I eventually overcame them and became a stronger person as a result. In the end, I was ready and I was okay.

2. Listen to understand, not to respond. Active listening to understand the other person is difficult to master. A lot of the time, people listen only to respond. However, we all should be listening without judgement to understand the other person. It is difficult to apply, but it is vital to making real connections and so much more.

Photo Courtesy of Ashley Hill

3. Rarely anything is personal. If someone wrongs you, chances are their actions are not personal. Everyone has an unspoken story. Most likely what you think they did was not personal. Don’t worry about it!

Something interesting about me is I started practicing ballet as an adult! Ballet is an outlet for me to de-stress, escape momentarily from the world and refocus my state of mind. Practicing ballet as an adult breaks up my workout routine, allows me to express my creativity while making me feel beautiful, strong and capable of taking on the world!

What's something/someone that's shaped you and why?

Something that has shaped me is Disney’s Cinderella, both the old and new versions. As an underclassman, I would let people walk all over me. I would never stand up or speak up for myself.

Cinderella taught me to “have courage and be kind.” This phrase means to me that I can have courage by standing up for myself while doing it in a kind way. After hearing those words, it gave me a better sense of self-worth and gave me the courage to stand up for myself.

If you could describe your life in one quote, what would it be?

“It’s not about you, it’s about connecting with them.”

What have you been doing post-graduation?

What is your proudest achievement?

Post-graduation, I have been working here at Mason as Human Resources & Payroll’s communication specialist! I am also earning my master’s in communication from Mason as well. I love working at Mason because I can now give back to the place and the people that gave so much to me.

[My proudest achievement] is graduating from George Mason University with a 3.97 GPA!

What's something interesting about you, and why is this important?

What do you enjoy most about Mason?

What I love most about George Mason University is its drive for excellence. Mason is committed to continuously bolstering the resources and well-being for the Mason community and extending community. I love being a part of this mission.

Photo Courtesy of Aelx James

O R G A N I Z AT I O N , A N O I N T E D V E S S E L S O F U N I T Y

What is Anointed Vessels of Unity?

Anointed Vessels of Unity (AVU) is an on-campus ministry that seeks to allow its members to grow closer to God and explore their faith through singing, dance, mime and devotion. That’s the professional way of saying that we just have a bunch of fun enjoying music and each other’s company. We have a gospel concert at the

end of each semester to give people the chance to experience God and to showcase what we work on during the semester.

on the community. We are constantly asked to perform at events and services. We get invited to churches all over the DMV (D.C.Maryland-Virginia area) and we love going.

How is Anointed Vessels of Unity important?

My favorite memory of AVU isn’t even from when I was a part of the club. I went to their concert spring semester freshman year and they were so full of energy and life that it was contagious. I won a tee-shirt in a “guess that song” competition and my friend Tyler made cupcakes for after the concert that were amazing. So my favorite memory would definitely have to be the first concert I ever went to.

AVU is important because it allows people to have a spiritual outlet. When we come to college, we want to have fun and explore without worrying about consequences. We stray away from what we know we need. AVU is just a place for people to get that extra encouragement and peace that they need to get through the week or the semester. Overall AVU has given a lot of people hope for themselves.

What is Anointed accomplishment?

Vessels

of

Unity's

proudest

I think our organization’s proudest accomplishment is our impact

What is your favorite memory of Anointed Vessels of Unity?

What is something that your organization hopes to achieve this year?

This year AVU wants to accomplish a lot of things. [First] we want to hold more events to bring people together and help them with stress and grief. [Second] we want to give people the courage to be honest with themselves about their spirituality and the strength to be confident in themselves and God. [Third] we want to have the best concert AVU has ever done. Anointed Vessels of Unity literally means that we are blessed carriers of combined strength. I think we do a good job of upholding that truth.

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CULTURE

8.27.2018

GMUFOURTHESTATE.COM @IVESTATE

A SUMMER WELL SPENT Mason students turned an ordinary summer into a learning experience LEIGH NORMAN, STAFF WRITER

HOW TO GET INVOLVED AS A TRANSFER STUDENT The daunting decision of transferring schools becomes less so after time as a Patriot ANGELIQUE ARINTOK, STAFF WRITER

A new and fresh start as a transfer student can be an overwhelming but joyous time. Communication majors Reagan Ortiz and Tyson Samuels know this personally, as they call Mason their home after transferring from Towson University and Old Dominion University respectively.

For Samuels, a senior, the organization-listing website Get Connected was a great resource to find events and know what’s happening on campus.

Along with using it, Samuels opened up to his peers and searched for more ways to get involved through word of mouth.

this as possible can help.

There are also plenty of on-campus resources for adjusting to Mason life. The Office of Transfer Services, located in Student Union Building I, provides students with an open space for guidance on transfer requirements Samuels was also curious and conflicted and coursework counseling.

Ortiz, a junior, said she was not as in his transfer process. It was always in Free copies of Freshman Focus, a involved in activities on her former the plan for him to attend Mason. But student-published magazine dedicated university’s campus. So upon coming when his first application was denied, to new Patriots, are also available in to Mason, she jumped at any oppor- his spirit remained strong. the Student Media office located in the tunity she could to step out of her When it finally came time for Samuels Hub. Reading material about various comfort zone. Staying involved and to transfer, the whole process was more campus organizations, potential jobs attending campus events as an active stressful and overwhelming than he available on or off campus as well as student eased Ortiz into the transition expected. listicles of some “hot hangout spots” as a newcomer. can alleviate many curiosities.

“Be open minded about things, and “My biggest tips would be to find don’t be so scared to talk to people, and Transfer student transitions are what you love, do it [on campus] and ask for help,” are some words of advice different for everybody. Ortiz and find your way off campus whenever Samuels would’ve given himself at the Samuels came to Mason in their own possible,” Ortiz said. ways, but both found Mason became start of his journey at Mason.

No matter what interests a student has, Asking for help from others can add their new home after coming into getting involved is as easy as following another level of horror to this daunting the experience with an open heart, a passion or favorite pastime with orga- transition, but there is nothing to lose unafraid of forging new relationships nizations like Student Media, Patriot when seeking help or advice from peers and strengthening their involvement Activities Council, Ballroom Club and or classmates. Although jitters, fears on campus. much more. and worries about a clean slate are inevitable, relinquishing as much of

Sophomore Jenna S. is an everyday student interested in pediatric nursing.

An average-sounding vacation became an incredible experience as she watched over the antics of a 9, 7, and 3-year-old as a nanny. Though a little exhausted by the end, she said, “I really confirmed my aspiration to work in pediatrics.” Even if they’re mixing everything from “allspice to almond extract to sprinkles to peppermint oil” to make cookies as the 9-year-old did, kids “just want to be happy.” Now it’s her job to get them there.

There are unpleasant summer lessons to learn, too. Sophomore music major Jordan Gibson spent the summer at a camp working with kids ages 2 to 7. Some days, her fellow counselors

drove her up the wall. When the chips were down, though, everyone teamed up to make memories for the children. Under the strain of disagreeable coworkers and soaked diapers, patience prevailed. She learned how to be responsible and how to be patient with others. Most of all, Gibson learned to grit her teeth, no matter the difficulties, and make herself and others smile.

Junior Zack K. enjoyed summer for what it was: a break. He took a solo trip to Virginia Beach. The drive took five hours, but armed with Christian rock, Andy Mineo and “A Charlie Brown Christmas,” it wasn’t too bad.

He appreciated the love of his friends and the beauty of the beach. The best part was “getting to relax and float in the ocean,” he said. As he snapped a photo of the sun setting, turning the sky silver, he felt his vacation was well spent.

The point of summer, it seems, is to learn. Whether through an internship, building wells and planting baobab trees or floating in the blue ocean, what you learn matters. “Grand takeaways,” “great stories” — they don’t matter. Just learn.

It’s your turn to answer: What did you learn from this summer?

Photo courtesy of JORDAN GIBSON

FOURTH ESTATE/ANGELIQUE ARINTOK

As the semester begins, so does the question that brings on intense feelings of anxiety and self-loathing: “How was your summer?” Someone visited the Bahamas. The girl with hornrimmed glasses had a fulfilling time on her mission trip to Mauritania.

Did that kid in green say he had an internship…with Google…on the moon? You dread answering, but you’re next. You don’t have any great stories or grand takeaways! What did the everyday, normal students do this summer?

CULTURE

GMUFOURTHESTATE.COM @IVESTATE

8.27.2018

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SCORE TEXTOOKS SAVINGS THIS SEMESTER

Learn how to get the best deals on expensive textbooks ANGELIQUE ARINTOK, STAFF WRITER

The Online Route In the 2017-2018 school year, about 77 percent of students bought their required materials at campus bookstores, while 41 percent of students buying from Amazon, according to a study conducted by the National Association of College Stores (NACS).

However, purchasing or renting online is just as accessible as an in-store transaction. Considering every piece of information about a textbook is easily accessible through sites like Amazon, Chegg, and Barnes & Noble, the best deal on a book isn’t as hard to find.

there is an assignment due or a test scheduled for the first day, professors For a more general browse, the understand that students are searching University Network website tun.com for textbooks with the best price tag. has a nifty feature called “Textbook Save Engine.” All a student needs for Price Match the search engine is an ISBN, author or Price matching in the bookstore can title. This search engine auto-populates save the hassle of online shipments and the cheapest route for either purchas- deliveries. However, some conditions ing or renting a new or used book. have to be met for price matching to work. The book must be fulfilled and Rent, Buy or Share certified by either Amazon or Barnes There is a vast difference in savings & Noble as the seller and shipper, not a between buying a textbook at full third party. The ISBN of the textbook price and renting it online or in or material must also be the same, as it stores. Renting saves much money for will be verified by the bookstore reprea textbook that will only be used for sentative at checkout. Whether the one semester. However, it does require book is new or used, the price-matched a little more responsibility in order to material online must be in the same ensure that the book doesn’t get water condition. Rentals are guaranteed at a damage or extreme wear and tear. more limited capacity since dates have Another way to save money is to share to line up with the Mason bookstore required course material between return schedule. When buying or multiple people. Consider splitting renting, know that price matching is with a friend or a newly befriended another avenue for saving money. classmate.

The Mason Community save.

The Amazon Textbook Rental system, for example, essentially does all the work of getting a textbook. With a neat tracking of all new and used rental The Waiting Game Often times, peers from the same or books as well as the necessary slips for return, it’s an efficient way to buy and Don’t rush into buying or renting an related major already have required expensive textbook for class. Unless texts from past semesters. If not a

FOURTH ESTATE/ANGELIQUE ARINTOK

Textbooks and other required materials for class aren’t always easy on the wallet. Although there are many ways to achieve the best deal possible, here are a few money-saving tips that will score you some savings at the register.

friend, then maybe a friend of a friend.

Regardless, students selling textbooks present some of the best deals out there. Since there is no big-name distributor, shipping or other costs involved, students are conscious of reasonable pricing.

A physical copy of a textbook is often the best kind to have, as some professors do not allow phones or laptops during session. An alternative to physical books are e-textbooks, which can offer the same convenience for the same cost.

The Facebook “Class of 20XX” pages, other miscellaneous Facebook groups and word-of-mouth are just some of the fast approaches to cheap buys.

This time of the semester is tough, but the added requirement of textbooks shouldn’t be as damaging to student’s wallets.

Textbook Format

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SPORTS

8.27.2018

FALL SPORTS PREVIEW:

GMUFOURTHESTATE.COM @IVESTATE

Upcoming Sports Calendar

Your inside look into what’s coming up this fall

August 30 Women’s Soccer vs. ODU

NATALIE HEAVREN, SPORTS EDITOR; DOMENIC ALLEGRA, STAFF WRITER

George Mason Stadium: 7 p.m.

With the 2018-2019 academic year off and running so are fall sports.

August 31

The cross-country teams will kick off their season on Saturday, Sept. 1 at the Spider Invitational in Mechanicsville, Va., and will race every other weekend through the Atlantic 10 Championship in late October. The NCAA Southeast Championships and the IC4A/ECAC (Intercollegiate Association of Amateur Athletes of America/Eastern College Athletic Conference) Championships follow in consecutive November weekends.

*Women’s Volleyball vs. Penn Washington D.C.: 10 a.m.

Photo courtesy of MASON ATHLETICS

The 2018 cross-country season will be the first one back for Tony Mihalich, who was hired as an assistant cross-country and track coach late last November. Mihalich served as a volunteer assistant coach at Mason from 2012-2014, during which he worked with middle distance, distance and cross-country athletes. He spent the previous four cross-country seasons at Iona College.

who earned All-East accolades at last season’s IC4A/ECAC Championships.

However, four other top 85 finishers will be returning.

Women’s Cross-Country The women’s cross-country team also finished 13th out of 25 teams at the IC4A/ECAC Championships. This was just one week after placing 22nd in the NCAA Southeast Regional Championships, their highest finish in three years.

The team is returning many of its members from its successful 2018 campaign, including Ciara Donohue who earned All-ECAC honors at the IC4A/ECAC Championships, as well as Riley Freeland, Carolyn Conley and Sarah Richart, who all placed in the top 100 runners at the race.

Men’s Soccer

After their 5-9-2 season last year, the men’s soccer team is looking to make a Men’s Cross-Country comeback. This year they have added The men’s cross-country team ended 12 players to their roster, five freshmen last season on a high note, finishing and seven transfers. Mason will return 13th out of 25 teams at the IC4A/ seven starters from their 2017 roster ECAC Championships. This finish was and a total of 21 letterwinners. just one week after they finished 19th in Mason will play 16 games, nine of the NCAA Southeast Championships. which will be at home. The seven The team will look a lot different away games include three against this season after the departure of six 2017 NCAA Tournament teams: seniors. This includes Logan Miller, Coastal Carolina, UMass and Virginia

Commonwealth.

Mason opened their season with a 1-0 win at East Tennessee State University and lost three days later to No. 25 University of Tennessee 4-0.

The team started with three exhibitions games against Wright State University, University of Maryland Baltimore County and The College of William & Mary prior to their first game on Aug. Women’s Volleyball 24.

Women’s volleyball finished the season last year with a record of 6-21 and failed to qualify for the Atlantic 10 Women’s Soccer Championship. However, with six After the women’s team finished with a returning players and the addition 9-9-2 record in 2017-2018, the Patriots of eight new ones, Mason looks to look to improve this year with the perform at a higher level this season. addition of eight players. According to a poll of the Atlantic 10 coaches, The Patriots will play 26 games this Mason is picked to finish third in the season, 11 at home and 15 on the road.

They will compete against teams such conference this year. as American U., Navy and Georgetown, In their 18-game schedule, they will in hopes for a chance at the Atlantic 10 play eight games at home and 10 on Championship. the road including games against five 2017 NCAA Tournament teams: La Mason opened their season last Salle, Georgetown, Rutgers, Tennessee weekend when they played American and Howard in the DC Challenge. and Central Florida.

Men’s Soccer vs. Drexel University George Mason Stadium: 6 p.m.

September 1 Men’s and Women’s Cross-Country Spider Invitational Pole Green Park: 9 a.m. *Women’s Volleyball @ Georgetown Washington D.C.: 12 p.m. *Women’s Volleyball vs. Norfolk State Washington D.C.: 4 p.m.

September 2 Women’s Soccer vs. ECU George Mason Stadium: 1 p.m.

September 6 Women’s Soccer vs. JMU George Mason Stadium: 7 p.m.

September 7 Men’s Soccer vs. Gardner-Webb University George Mason Stadium: 7 p.m.

September 9 Women’s Soccer @ Georgetown Shaw Field: 12 p.m.

Photo courtesy of MASON ATHLETICS

Men’s Soccer vs. Mount St. Mary’s George Mason Stadium: 2 p.m. *Women’s Volleyball Georgetown Tournament

All You Need to Know About Mason's First Fall Matches, Meets and Games

THE VOICE OF GMU KOREA

GMUFOURTHESTATE.COM @IVESTATE

Opinions do not reflect the views of Fourth Estate. Submit opinions to jbelive2@gmu.edu

8.27.2018

15

THE VOICE, STRIVING TOWARDS INNOVATION

The crisis of newspapers is a consistent problem not only within student media but also the established media.

People are now able to access the news through the internet and various social media platforms, and obtain high-quality information without having to pay for it.

As the major readership are university students, the crisis has come even bigger for student media. In the past, student newspapers were a powerful form of media that dealt with not only university issues but also social issues from the perspective of the youth.

However, now student newspapers that have not changed with the times are facing a discontinuance of publication due to the huge amount of inform a t i o n coming in from other various media.

In addition, a number of student media outlets which failed to produce independent capital due to financial difficulties are suffering from publication and content interference from their schools and from negative student perception.

Change is essential for student media in this situation. The major target audience of student newspapers is the younger generation. As the younger generation makes good use of social media, the digitalization of news becomes necessary. More important, however, is the need to develop

practical digital capabilities based on fundamental platform changes.

Rather than just making a PDF file of newspapers, student media outlets should understand how to operate and use social networking services. They should diversify contents such as card news, blog postings, and videos while accelerating the system of distribution through continuous training within the organization.

The Voice has emphasized the digitalization of news following our reorganization in the second half of 2017.

We have renewed the online form of our newspaper and launched an official card news team and photo team to distribute articles using Facebook.

Based on an online survey, The Voice was able to know the student’s interests while signing contracts with various advertising outlets and delivered news regarding them through card news. Moreover, the Wix blog-site, a website linked to Facebook, was used to upload monthly articles and The Voice continued to actively work inside the online format. At the same time, The Voice worked to gain the trust of our readers by carrying out fair and objective reports on important issues in school, including the resignation of the president, arguments regarding English Zones, employment of graduates, and town-hall meetings.

Innovation of The Voice began with a fundamental purpose of hearing the voices of readers and representing them.

No matter how diverse and high-quality information is, The Voice believes it would be meaningless unless it is effectively communicated to the reader.

We think one of the most important roles of student media is to adjust to the changed media environment since media is an organization that tells the truth and delivers issues. The Voice would like to extend gratitude to our readers for their trust and support, and promises that innovative changes will continue in the future.

Photos courtesy of YULIA LEE

EDITORIAL BOARD, THE VOICE Since our establishment on May 23, 2015, The Voice developed the title of being the only media outlet at George Mason University Korea (GMUK) and the only English newspaper of the Incheon Global Campus (IGC).

However, after receiving results of declining circulation rates of newspapers and stagnant participation rates of readers, The Voice was forced to take time to reflect on our journey. In this vein, The Voice wants to check this crisis and the constantly changing fate of newspapers, as well as the process of innovation that The Voice has undergone in relation to these circumstances.

CEASELESS EFFORT BRINGS GREAT SUCCESS GMU Korea graduate Yulia Lee works at one of “The Big Four” HAEUN CHOI, REPORTER; HASEUNG JOUNG, MANAGING EDITOR Yulia Lee, a class of 2017 accounting experience in public accounting with graduate, is one of the first George a firm that can offer intensive training.

Mason University Korea graduates Furthermore, she believed that an enviwho landed a spot at Klynveld Peat ronment with like-minded people that Marwick Goerdeler (KPMG), an are passionate and career-driven would accounting firm, in Virginia. Her be valuable. Therefore, she tried to find story is splendid and fulfilling news for opportunities to have an internship Patriots, as KPMG is one of the top at KPMG while she was studying at four companies coveted by Accounting Fairfax. majors. The Voice celebrates her With the submission of her resume achievement and interviewed her and two interviews, she was offered an about her time at Mason Korea and internship at KPMG that would start journey to KPMG. after she graduated in Virginia. During Yulia entered George Mason University the internship, she slowly built her skills Korea in 2014 as one of the first batch in the tax department, working directly of freshmen, and graduated Magna with people at KPMG Korea. In the cum laude in Accounting, at the Fairfax last week of the four-month internship, campus in December of 2017. The she was offered a full-time position in opportunity to work at KPMG was the tax department, focusing on clients given when she was studying at Fairfax. who are expats and inpats of US KPMG provides multidisciplinary companies that do business globally in firmware that delivers accounting, KPMG. management and financial advice based on the world’s highest level of information in the Audit, Tax and Advisory areas. It is known as one of the ‘Big Four Auditors’ that anyone majoring in accounting would dream of working at. Yulia mentioned that her goal was also to work at one of those companies, because she wanted

However, the journey to this outcome has not always been smooth. Being the first generation of GMU Korea made it hard for her to get necessary support for career development due to the lack of job educational systems. Especially, when she was in GMU Korea, the Accounting major was not offered yet. Therefore, she had to change

her major to Accounting later as the necessary courses were lacking at that time. Despite these difficult conditions, she tried to study hard at GMU Korea and built her job experience by directly applying herself and her desires to internship positions when she was at the Fairfax campus. She could move one step closer to her dream through passion and continuous effort.

In an interview with The Voice, she advised students in the business school that GPA can be a key point to impress employers. She emphasized that when searching for a job in America, looking for opportunities and seizing those is important. She states, “Updating LinkedIn, attending networking events are good ways to put your foot in the door.” During her time at Mason Korea, she was studying and preparing for her dream in a relatively infertile and unstable environment when compared to current students. She believed in her infinite potential and continuously challenged herself. “Knowing how to sell yourself and appeal to certain people is key to building connections and to walk out of a job interview with an offer. Just make sure to act confidently.”

16

OPINIONS

8.27.2018

Opinions do not reflect the views of Fourth Estate. Submit opinions to jbelive2@gmu.edu

SENIORITIS IMMUNIZATION

FOURTH ESTATE/ SUSAN KATHERINE CORKRAN

There are certain traditions accompanying graduation that seem inescapable. Bookstores are filled with special copies of “Oh, the Places You’ll Go” and teddy bears in graduation gowns.

Grocery stores proudly display balloons

GMUFOURTHESTATE.COM @IVESTATE

SUSAN KATHERINE CORKRAN, STAFF WRITER

set aside memories to hold onto after I’ve walked across the stage to accept my diploma. The little things that we don’t think twice about in our day to day lives will become precious when we look back and recollect. Where did you go for lunch? Which friends did you spend time with? What was it like to see the leaves begin to change color on campus and when was the first snow day? There are so many precious, tiny The more thought I gave it, the more snapshots that I want to preserve. determined I was to make sure that my Actually use a planner. I know that final year at George Mason would be I am not the only student guilty of a strong, happy year free from senior- neglecting the color-coded grids of that itis. I’ve come up with the following agenda I swore I was really going to goals and ideas to combat any of the use this semester. Work piles up, and as complacency, stress and exhaustion old-school as it sounds, the best way to that typically makes up the worst keep your head above the stress of any But what happens symptoms of senioritis. It’s an experi- school year is to plan out time. Once before this? There mental immunization, but if it can help you’ve laid out a realistic schedule, you is another tradition prevent even a single case of senioritis, can budget your time to make sure that all of the priorities in your life are just as strongly I would consider it time well spent. tied to senior year. Make every moment count. I’ve balanced.

Yet this particular decided that I want to make a photo Don’t forget to make your health one custom is devoid album of my senior year. Tempus fugit, of those priorities! How many memes of the optimism of and before it flies by me, I want to of coffee-dependent, sleep-deprived,

shaped like caps and diplomas with the year carefully printed in golden lettering above the rows of graduation celebration cakes. Many families proudly assemble to watch each hour of the ceremony with relatives flocking in to offer congratulations to the graduate whose accomplishment will be commemorated with countless cards, sentimental quotes and flowers.

Family parties are held, photos are taken and everyone begins to talk about the future.

graduation praise. The word senioritis echoes endlessly throughout the final two semesters, whether uttered as an expression of sympathy or declaration of apathy. As I prepare to begin my senior year of undergrad, I have to wonder how much truth there is to the phenomenon of senioritis. Why should the happiest celebration of four years’ worth of hard work be preceded by such negativity?

red-eyed college students have we all laughed at and shared over the years? And how many times have we resembled those pitiable creatures ourselves? It shouldn’t be a mark of pride to run off of espresso and anxiety.

The truth is, if we are not taking care of our minds and bodies, we are failing to see to the most important task we have.

All-nighters are never the solution to a challenging project or looming exam.

Senior year is the final stretch. If we all make the effort to pace ourselves and work our hardest, there is no reason not to cross the finish line with pride.

And, lastly, take a chance. This is your last year to connect to your fellow Patriots, join a new club, and put yourself out there to experience all that college can be. If you want to audition for a play, try out for a sport or do something outside of your comfort zone, now is the time. Good luck!

CREDIT WHERE CREDIT IS DUE hearings. Most of the claims of racism originated from one witness named It is becoming more difficult to find Thomas Figures. There were many anyone who holds this position on our long-suffering attorney general. witnesses who denied Figures’ claims, Granted, his persona is not affable. He and some of Sessions’ comments were taken out of context. is a hard-liner in everything he does or says. I imagine him waking up, Furthermore, liberals sick of Ronald getting dressed for work, selecting a tie, Reagan’s influence on the Supreme and stating: “It is my moral obligation Court began an onslaught on Reagan’s to wear this tie today. Any other tie I judicial nominees. Progressive groups could wear today is an abomination began whipping up controversy around Reagan’s nominees, and Democratic against God and country.” senators began aggressively questionHe is a hard-liner on immigration, drugs, capital punishment, civil asset ing nominees during hearings. This forfeiture, national security, and strategy was famously used to defeat Reagan’s 1987 nomination of Robert mandatory minimum sentencing.

Bork to the Supreme Court, and was There are many names you could call used again for George H. W. Bush’s Jeff Sessions, but there is one thing you 1990 nomination of Clarence Thomas certainly can’t call him: a squish. (who ended up being confirmed despite One of the names that gets thrown at the uproar).

Sessions is “racist.” His failed nomiSessions’ nomination to the federal nation by President Reagan to be a court was in a frenzied moment of federal judge in 1986 seems to substandivisiveness, and Senator Arlen Specter tiate this claim. Yes, his nomination later said that his key “no” vote on the was withdrawn after the Judiciary Committee voted against him, and his Judiciary Committee was “a mistake” confirmation hearings were permeated and went on to call Sessions an “egalitarian.” with race. But there are important things to remember about those While I do not share many of Sessions’ Jeff Sessions isn’t that bad of a guy.

hard-line views on what the law should be (I find his favoring of civil asset forfeiture particularly abhorrent), I do respect his hard-line view on the law per se. Throughout his entire career as U.S. attorney, Alabama attorney general, four-term U.S. senator, and U.S. attorney Donald Trump in February 2016, general, he has been guided by the Sessions advised Trump’s campaign, principle that the law says what it says. Trump appointed him to his dream job Sessions is as Southern a man as you can as attorney general, and, in that role, find, and one of the characteristics that he is in the perfect position to protect Southern-ness engenders is a strong Trump — and he chose not to. Trump sense of personal honor. Sessions’ had been a boon to the career of Jeff decision to recuse himself from the Sessions, but taking part in an investiRussia investigation is one of the most gation into a candidate he had advised honorable decisions made by an official would be a dishonorable conflict of in a government where personal honor interest, and Jeff Sessions wasn’t going seems to diminish by the hour. Think to let his personal honor die at the feet about it: Sessions was the first sitting of a former game show host. senator to endorse then-candidate And now the President is attacking

Photo courtesy of HUFFINGTON POST

DOMINIC PINO, STAFF WRITER

Sessions again in the press. Sessions, who usually does not respond to Trump’s Twitter tirades, issued a statement on August 23 saying the Justice Department “will not be improperly influenced by political considerations. I demand the highest standards, and where they are not met, I take action.”

Even though I disagree with many of Sessions’ policy positions, he is not a bad guy, and we ought to give credit where credit is due.

OPINIONS

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8.27.2018

Opinions do not reflect the views of Fourth Estate. Submit opinions to jbelive2@gmu.edu

OVERDOING IT

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DOMINIC PINO, STAFF WRITER

On July 24, Booker was speaking to religious leaders with Senator Elizabeth Warren when he said this with the utmost gravity: “I’m here to call on folks to understand that in a moral moment, there is no neutral. In a moral moment, there is no bystanders [sic]. You are either complicit in the evil, you are either contributing to the wrong, or you are fighting against it.”

evil and it demands everyone to fight for the side of righteousness, which is the senator’s side, of course.

This wasn’t a one-time occurence; Booker has overdone it before. In January, Booker yelled at Secretary of Homeland Security Kirstjen Nielsen during a congressional oversight hearing because President Donald Trump allegedly used profanity to describe poor countries in a meeting at the White House. If the batteries in your TV remote have ever died while you were flicking through the channels, and you happened to be on C-SPAN when they did (this is the only way C-SPAN gets ratings), you know that congressional oversight hearings normally have exactly as much passion as you would expect from a bunch of senators asking bureaucrats about bureaucracy.

One might think, judging by his words alone, that he was speaking about a truly horrendous topic. A comment like this sounds like the sort of thing Booker felt the need to overdo it. He people say about racial segregation described his “tears of rage” and or the Holocaust (and rightly so). claimed to be “seething with anger” Booker was actually referencing the over the President’s alleged comments nomination of DC Circuit Court Judge and lit into Secretary Nielsen, who Brett Kavanaugh to the Supreme just happened to be the next cabinet Court. According to Booker, the official scheduled to testify to Congress nomination of one man to control after the White House meeting. No one one of nine seats on the court at the accused her of any wrongdoing, but head of one of three branches of Booker decided she would become a government is akin to actual moral target, and a routine oversight hearing

Photo courtesy of TOUCHNY.ORG

LIFE-SAVING MEDICINE AT LIFE-ALTERING COSTS

would be the time for a melodramat- is a partisan position appointed by a ic monologue on the evil of bigotry. partisan president. Former President Also in January, Booker made the John F. Kennedy even appointed his unprecedented move of testify- brother to be attorney general. Sessions, ing against the confirmation of his with his extensive legal experience, did Senate colleague, Jeff Sessions, to not pose a threat to anyone and did not deserve the breaking of norms be Attorney General. While the delivery was more composed than that Booker’s testimony represented. his vituperation against Secretary Nielsen, his words were just as weighty.

He spoke of the “arc of the moral universe,” claimed Sessions, “demonstrated a hostility towards [civil rights],” and said “if there is no justice, there is no peace.”

All of this was for the nomination of a man eminently qualified to be Attorney General.

Sessions was a U.S. Attorney for 12 years, served as the Attorney General of Alabama, and was elected to four terms in the Senate. It is true that Sessions is a very partisan politician, but Attorney General

CHRIS KERNAN-SCHMIDT, STAFF WRITER

Americans are no strangers to the high cost of healthcare.

Those with more niche conditions like diabetes, cancer, and arthritis, just to name a few, suffer high out-of-pocket costs. The inability to purchase life-saving medicine such as insulin at a reasonable cost is a major factor of the failure of the American healthcare system.

Insulin is a drug that diabetics use to help control the level of sugar glucose in the blood. It is a necessary medicine for diabetics to live — without it, death would be certain. As

conservative judge on the Supreme Court, but it’s not the apocalypse.

It would be wise for Booker to calm down. Otherwise, people will treat his overdone words like they treat overdone leftovers in the microwave: they will want no part of them.

It’s fine for Booker to disagree with the Attorney General, dislike President Trump’s comments, or oppose a

Photo courtesy of THE INQUIERER DAILY NEWS

I wonder if Senator Cory Booker has recently been leaving food in the microwave too long. Or swinging his clubs too hard on the golf course. Or getting injured from working out too much. My curiosity is aroused because the New Jersey senator has been overdoing it.

a diabetic, my insurance routinely pays over $3,000 for a 90-day supply of this life-saving medicine. I am thankful that I have quality insurance to support my disease, but many are not so lucky.

Some insurers will choose to cover less expensive but not as effective biosimilar insulins, resulting in patients having to pay thousands of dollars out-of-pocket for quality care. After seeing the costs of my medication, I decided to research why it costs so much. There must be a reason, right?

Despite manufacturing processes remaining relatively the same, prices of insulin have tripled from 2002 to 2013 and continue to rise (CBS MoneyWatch). The reason the price of this medication is so exorbitantly high is the free-market nature of America’s health care system. Simply put, manufacturers increase the price because there is a higher demand for it.

Regardless of a patient’s insurance or financial status, the price remains the same. This price-gouging of life-saving medication is morally wrong and should be legally wrong, but, unsurprisingly, it is not.

Diabetics are not alone in this struggle.

Medical costs are high across the board while our healthcare system is failing us. Recently “prices for a cancer drug called lomustine have skyrocketed nearly 1,400 percent since 2013, putting a potentially life-saving treatment out of reach for patients suffering from brain tumors and Hodgkin’s lymphoma” (CBS). Because of the lack of competition for many of the companies, price gouging is an easy, albeit morally gross, way to increase profits. Did I mention in most cases it is perfectly legal?

When a diabetic can fly across the country, drive to Canada, purchase a 90-day supply of insulin over-thecounter (same brand), and fly back all for less than the price of the same 90-day supply in the U.S. and save approximately $1,000, you have a problem. The status of healthcare in America is failing most vulnerable around us: the poor, the uninsured, and the chronically ill.

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ETC.

8.27.2018

3030: Back to School

MS Funny

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Monique Le/Fourth Estate

Billy Ferguson/Fourth Estate

Jay Topshe/Fourth Estate

Various Things Dressed as Angél Cabrera

Aliya Hochstadt/Fourth Estate Peer Reviewed

Isaiah King/Fourth Estate

Don’t Do This

Prisca Byun/Fourth Estate

ETC.

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