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PANTHER MAGAZINE Vol. 1 Issue 6 A Forum for Free Student Expression at Florida International University One copy per person. Additional copies are 25 cents. LIVIN’ LA VIDA PANTHER

Selene Basile/Panther Press

Guethshina Altena/Panther Press

Campus life edition

Dante Gonsalves/Panther Press 2 Panther Magazine – Thursday, February 16, 2017 pantherNOW.com CONNECTED CAMPUS Housing resident assistants advocate for students BARBARA ANDRADE BRITES residential hall. other I know and that is why I love cup of tea. to go to the Florida Resident Assistant Contributing Writer For many student residents, it so much.” “I plan to do a cool program on Seminar where she got to see other RAs serve as leaders that can help Destiny Lawson, a graduate April called Empanadas en pajamas. RAs from other universities and what he resident assistants with many commonly faced issues student getting her masters in I want to combine the culture in their programing consists of. at the University and help residents get to know the Criminal Justice, has lived in the Miami with like a fun community Both Olson and Weiser re-applied assist in creating a students that live around them. Parkview residential hall for the past builder,” said Olson. “This is going to be an RA next semester and they healthy, safe and “Some students think that RAs two years. She said she has had great to be a pajama party with empanadas will find out if they get the positions thriving environment are kind of like police officers experiences with her RAs. for lake south residents mostly but next month. where students can develop their looking for trouble and trying to “I really like my current RA. He is I would not mind if other students Weiser said she loves being an interpersonal,T academic and enforce policy but really when it super nice and helpful,” said Lawson. come to hang out.” RA. She explained how through this leadership potential. comes out to it, your RA is kind of “I remember one time I wasn’t Jaine Weiser, a junior majoring in job she not only helped students, but Abbey Olson, a first year RA the first person you can talk to,” said getting along with my roommate international relations, is a first year also has developed herself.. majoring in International Relations, Olson. “My residents can come to me because she was being really dirty RA at Everglades Hall. “Whether or not I end getting works with freshmen in the about anything and they can ask any and disorganized around the dorm Weiser said she became an RA the position which obviously I hope Lakeview South residential hall and questions and my job is to help them and I didn’t know what to do, so I because she enjoyed the experience I get it again, I just want to be able became a resident assistant after in any way I can.” talked to him and he really knew how that she had as a freshman. She lived to go out and support whatever my being involved in numerous events The RAs at FIU serve as a critical to handle the situation and make both in Lakeview South last year and said resident is because I realized how for FIU residents. link between the students on his or of us happy.” her RA inspired her to pick up the important a RA assistant is and Olson, who also works for her floor, the assistant director for Each RA is required to do three position. how many avenues can open for a Student Media, said she wanted Residence Life and the Residence programs per month; two community “Coming from Maryland, it was student,” Weiser said. to gain leadership skills. She said Life Office. builders, which consist of activities my first time in the state of Florida In spite of the challenges of being her RA encouraged her to consider The RA leadership opportunity to get the residents to socialize with and obviously I didn’t know who an RA, Olson said that residential life becoming an RA so she applied for requires being a representative of each other, and one educational everyone was, but the more I went is an opportunity to engage with the the job.. the college and a representative of programming where RAs help to my RAs programs the more I was FIU community. “I absolutely love being an RA. student issues in the hall and across promote FIU initiatives. able to connect with her personally as “There’s is this sense in college My staff is amazing and I have had campus. In exchange for their hard “My RA always organizes cool well as the people in my floor and the that you have to pick your classes the opportunity to meet incredible work, RA’s get to live on campus for events in our floor. Those events are dorms in general,” Weiser said. “It and you have to do your homework students,” said Olson. “Not only am I free. a great opportunity to just hang out really made me think ‘wow I want to and submit papers and that is what wronging as a person and as a leader, “A lot of people think that we do and get to know who is around you,” do the same for somebody else’ so I college should be but I think in but I am also opening avenues for it for the free housing, but put it this Lawson said. joined the Residential Assistant life.” residential life you become a learner residents to become leaders as well.” way: you can get a part time job that Olson said she planned a program Weiser said ever since she became outside of your classroom and your An RA is a trained student leader is less work and you could pay off called “just a cup of tea,” where the an RA, she has had the opportunity comfort zone,” said Olson. “If really in colleges and universities charged your housing,” Olson said. “Being students on her floor talked about to experience some amazing if you go to programs and engage in with the responsibility of living an RA is about having that passion sexual assault awareness and how networking events. your community there is no limit on with and supervising students in a inside you. This is a job unlike any consent is like offering someone a Recently, Weiser was nominated what you can do.”

SGA-MMC share updates on EDITOR’S NOTE shuttle to Publix supermarket Campus life a broad but important topic to ARIANA RAMSUNDAR current student government president. was about sixty students using the Staff Writer “We were able to reallocate the funds program. I would really like to see discuss from the money left in the contingency the program return I think that a lot of s a school of mostly for MMC spring 2016. The program students benefited from the program,” CAYLA BUSH commuter students, was funded for spring semester, but said Grundy. like the Society a distinct 8 percent we knew that we would not have the In addition to trying to get service of Professional of the students money to do it every semester.” to the Publix shopping center, SGA Journalists or at FIU face the Collazo mentioned that, for the is also working on extending the Public Relations challenge of finding ways to get to the moment, the transportation to and program so that students can use the Student Society of groceryA store. from Publix for residential students Sweetwater Trolley already makes America - we’re In the spring of 2016, SGA is not available, but they’re always stops at Dolphin Mall, SGA would contributing to implemented a pilot program to looking for solutions. like students to be able to utilize this the campus life help residential students make the “We are working on a sustainable resource. experience. commute. The program consisted of way to implement the program, so it SGA met with the mayor of Campus life buses that would run on Sundays for is not based on whether extra funds Doral on Tuesday, Feb. 7 to discuss is such a broad a four-hour period, taking students are available or not,” said Collazo. integrating the transportation system EDITOR IN CHIEF topic to broach - it from residential housing to Publix Collazo expanded on the plan of Doral to allow students to go to includes student and back. to actualize a long lasting program, more businesses in Doral as well. By stepping organizations, “I think it was a good idea, because explaining the current work taking By utilizing the Sweetwater onto any of both Student I usually walk to Publix, so when place to ensure that the students have Trolley and the CATS shuttle, SGA is the University Government there were a lot of things to carry access to a transportation system. planning to extend the two stops to 10 campuses, we Councils and Greek the tram would come in handy,” said “We are now in conversation with stops and identify days and times for inevitably become life. Dionne Grundy, a junior accounting parking and transportation to facilitate maximum student useage. a part of campus It also includes major. a more sustained and reliable way for Freshman nursing student Kelly life. the issues that Since the program came to an end students residing on campus,” said Woza was not attending the University Whether we affect housing Grundy, like many other students, Collazo. “The Sweetwater Trolley is at the time, but expressed her personal consciously join students, and reverted to walking to get their being integrated into the university experience getting groceries. the organizations those who work in groceries every week. system. We are working with them “I am not from Miami, so I want to that are a part of housing. “Since I live in University to see if they are willing to make the be taken back and forth and know that Campus Life - We wanted to Apartments, walking to publix isn’t stops.” I am okay. I normally walk back and everything from the shed some light on much of an inconvenience. But if I The use of the Sweetwater Trolley forth to and from Publix at least once Council for Student the organizations have a lot of things or heavy things I could provide more students with a week, and crossing 107th Street is Organizations and entities that have to take an Uber which adds up in seats to Publix, a problem Grundy dangerous sometimes,” said Woza. to the Black go into creating the long run,” said Grundy. says she experienced while using the “Since I live on campus finding a Student Union - or and maintaining a However, as the semester came to program last spring. ride can be difficult, so walking is my seek the student campus lifestyle a close so did the program. “I know a lot of students used to only option for going to get groceries. organizations that that students would “When I was speaker of SGA use the buses. That was sometimes I think this program would beneficial will give us a like. Senate we wanted to give the students the problem, the tram was only so to students and would be much safer chance to improve access to go to the Publix across the big for the amount of students who that how we currently commute.” our resumes - street,” said Alian Collazo, MMC’s wanted to use it. On the first day there pantherNOW.com Panther Magazine – Thursday, February 16, 2017 3 Greek life: University professional fraternity develops ‘business leaders’

TAPKANNIA KEOUN bond members share. joining. Contributing Writer Alpha Kappa Psi was Once the recruitment traditionally an all-male period ends, Guerra he term fraternity at the time of explains that bids are ‘fraternity’ its creation in 1904, and extended to ‘rush-ees’ is most permitted the integration and the pledge process commonly of female members in includes educating denoted 1976. pledges about its central as the perception of male “Having both men and values, history of the brotherhood;T however, at women in the fraternity fraternity and building its core are the elements resembles a more realistic upon personal and of opportunity and environment, like in a professional development. friendship. One fraternity company. One of our goals On the latter note, a that exemplifies these is to prepare our members benefit of Alpha Kappa Psi elements is Alpha Kappa with a professional is the idea of improving Psi, a co-ed fraternity atmosphere, so they know oneself personally, specializing in the area of what to expect in the real- in preparation for the business. world,” said FIU’s Xi business component of the Alpha Kappa Psi is Sigma Chapter President, fraternity. the earliest established Maria Areiza. “It has given me professional business The co-educational the opportunities to fraternity and possesses attribute of men and exceed in leadership, the largest membership women in such a confidence, and public overall among business distinguished business speaking. I would also fraternities in the United fraternity, provides a say I have grown so States. The FIU Chapter, platform of inclusivity much professionally, Xi Sigma, currently has and in turn, altering the because I carry myself 140 members. standards for fraternities. in a completely different

In contrast to service As with any other manner now as a Courtesy of FIU Alpha Kappa Psi fraternities that focus on fraternity, Alpha brother,” said Jhon Carlos University Alpha Kappa Psi chapter, Xi Sigma fraternity has the largest membership providing community Kappa Psi partakes in a Barrera, the fraternity’s overall among business fraternities in the United States. service, professional recruitment and pledge recruitment leader. fraternities prepare process to extend full For many, the students for skills in a membership. fraternity is a stepping a proud contributor in economic strain, but She adds that the specific occupation. “We start tabling and stone on the road to to members facing also displays an overall fraternity is not limited to “AKPsi’s main goal marketing ourselves building networking skills financial hardship, called assurance of the fraternity business majors, herself is to develop principled during the second week and adding desirable the “Alpha Kappa Psi in taking care of its a senior double majoring business leaders. We work of school. As for our rush qualifications on job Scholarship.” members. in chemistry and biology, on interview skills, have events, you must attend at resumes. “We have many The future of Alpha stating they are open to resume workshops, and least one of the five events The Xi Sigma chapter generous donors who Kappa Psi is focused on anyone interested in the bring in recruiters to speak in order to be considered,” recently won a regional contribute to the growth and improvement, field of business. to our members,” said Vice Guerra said. conference held in Atlanta, scholarship and AKPsi according to Areiza. “Alpha Kappa Psi is President of Membership, The recruitment Georgia. The chapter will does fundraisers, and on “We’re working on getting a family to me. This is senior Ashley Guerra. process is a means for also be celebrating their average we raise about a signature service event, where I’ve been to join Current members refer the fraternity to exhibit upcoming 25th Charter $4,000 a year to help our improving our charter’s a group of people who to Alpha Kappa Psi as visibility among potential Anniversary, having been fellow members,” Areiza website, and just getting are all like-minded in ‘AKPsi’, a shortened members and to identify inducted at FIU on June said. our name out there to the sense [of] bettering form of the name and an the people who are 27, 1992. This feature not only expand our membership,” themselves,” Barrera said. indication of the common genuinely interested in The group is also aids a fellow member Areiza said. StartUP FIU to host Google speaker series DOUGLASS GAVILAN well. and increase their profitability. . different creators. Small users can get the Staff Writer According to StartUP’s eventbrite page, “All of this is tied together with program for free with some restrictions, the Google speaker series will take place free analytics, and it looked like a very while bigger apps would need to purchase ax Henderson, the head on the third floor of the MARC building on impressive, well integrated platform that the service in order to receive all the of go to marketing for the Modesto Maidique Campus from 6 p.m. should prove attractive to a lot of mobile benefits. Firebase, will be at till 9 p.m. app developers,” said Michael J. Miller, The program has helped manage and the MARC building provide information for high profile apps to discuss how he that pull in millions of views. These was able to start his own development include PicCollage, Fabulous, Shazam and projectM and inspire students and alumni, Skyscanner. on Wednesday, Feb. 22 as part of an event According to Firebase, PicCollage is a hosted by StartUP FIU. It’s Google! When will you get another opportunity to sit photo collage software that puts together Henderson is an entrepreneur down ask questions and possibly make a valuable connection pictures and videos. It has generated and strategist with almost 15 years with an employee from such an innovative company again? around 120 million downloads. Fabulous is of experience. An alumni of Cornell used to further healthy living by replacing University, Henderson has worked for bad habits with good ones. Shazam allows Oracle, Google and Firebase after it was Michelle Roopchand users to discover and interact with music bought by Google. Now, as the head of Content Strategist and videos. Finally, Skyscanner assist users go to market, he oversees and leads the FIU StartUP searching for low airline prices. strategy for the go to market department. “I only have one thing to say to the “It is an amazing opportunity to have At 6 p.m., visitors will be able to network writer for PCMag. students who are on the fence about going to Max Henderson from Google to speak to for around 30 minutes. Henderson will start The main advertised feature of Firebase our event,” said Roopchand. “It’s Google! our students and community members on his speech at 6:30, which will last for about is Firebase Analytics. The service is When will you get another opportunity to one what it is like to work for a company an hour and will commence with a question completely free for companies and is used sit down ask questions and possibly make like Google,” said Michelle Roopchand, and answer session for 30 minutes. The last to track and better understand users. Other a valuable connection with an employee content strategist for StartUP FIU. hour will focus on networking. hallmarks include helping with hosting, from such an innovative company again?” Unlike at other universities, events such Firebase is a business created for the cloud messaging, storage and test labs. StartUP FIU is located at the MARC as the one featuring Henderson hosted by purpose of expanding apps. The service Creators can create revenue by adding ads building. They can also be contacted by StartUP are completely free for students; helps innovators by helping develop higher to their app. calling 305-348-7156 or by visiting their non-FIU students are encouraged to join as quality applications, grow a bigger fanbase Firebase has multiple price points for website for further events. 4 Panther Magazine –Thursday, February 16, 2017 www.pantherNOW.com DOLLARS FOR SCHOLARS 117 students were nominated in this year’s Student Life awards

I feel blessed to be part of a University that provides its students with a vast range of opportunities to develop themselves as leaders not only within the FIU community, but throughout the community as a whole. It is always humbling to be recognized alongside other inspiring students who motivate you to strive to be better.

Sofia Fernandez Fidel Urbina Mia Gabb 3rd year Ph.D student Senior Freshman

Samaneh Khazraeian Ph.D Student Nominations: Scholar and Leadership award

John Ukenye Katherine Tarre Carolina Amalgro Senior 1st Year Graduate student Sophomore

As a transfer student, I felt very devastated that I had to leave my country and continue school somewhere where I thought I would have to be alone. That idea was terrifying to me, except it was not true as a Panther. FIU was able to demonstrate what a second home truly means. When you walk on campus and you can see many people willing to help students with potential, you never feel alone.

Andrea Saladrigas María Sol Echarren Senior Ph.D student

Amro AlAshi Senior Nominations: Scholar and Kaplan Prize award

JOSHUA CEBALLOS selects the individuals who meet the criteria to move onto Jessica Weissman, a nominee for the Outstanding Staff Writer the next three round of selections. Leadership Award, is a Ph.D student in the Department of Finalists, along with two guests of their choosing, are Health Promotion and Disease Prevention. She also works ather than watch TV or play video games, invited to an awards ceremony on April 6 in the Graham as the campus liaison for FIU the American Public Health senior chemistry and psychology major Center Ballrooms for the results of the award selection. Association, and the regional student liaison for the South Robert Wood felt getting involved and “Every finalist gets a certificate that night when they Atlantic region and the New England region. volunteering would be a better way to arrive, then the winners are announced, and the winners In the spring of 2016, Weissman planned a conference spend his time. Students like Robert are get a physical award… and there’s three awards with for the APHA despite her busy schedule with school and being honored by the University as part of the Outstanding monetary pieces associated with them,” says Bares Pelaez. writing her dissertation proposal. StudentR Life Awards. Lauren Zulueta, freshman nursing major in the FIU Robert Wood, nominated for the Outstanding “[These awards are] a unique opportunity for faculty, Honors College, is nominated for the Outstanding Service Leadership Award and the Outstanding Service Award, staff and students to recognize FIU student leaders who Award and is appreciative of the recognition. works on campus as a learning assistant with the Chemistry have excelled academically and in the areas of distinguished “I feel honored and humbled. It’s a humbling Department, and says he got into service because it made service to others, citizenship, scholarship, innovation, experience. Just to be in a nomination with other nominees him happy. leadership, diversity advancement, and promotion of the who are also striving for greatness and being able to make “Service has to come from within. You definitely need Panther Spirit,” according to Vice-president of Student a difference in the community.” to feel like you’re doing it for you and feel like you’re Affairs, Larry Lunsford. Zulueta is involved in a range of different service helping people. You really can’t do it because it’s going Sponsored by the Division of Student Affairs, 117 projects in and around the University community and to look good for this, or it’s going to look good for that,” students have been nominated for the 2017 Student Life an active member of CURE, an international non-profit says Wood. awards, of which there are eight categories: Kaplan Prize, organization that operates hospitals in countries around Throughout his time at the University, Wood has also Outstanding Leadership Award, Outstanding Service the world. worked with inner city kids to teach them about science Award, Diversity Award, Spirit Award, Shining Star “One particular instance which still touches me today and inspire them, and cooperated with the Bill and Melinda Award, Scholar Award and the Presidential Award. is my involvement with Blue Lakes Autism Academy,” Gates Foundation during an event held on campus. Graduate and undergraduate students can be nominated she said. “I had tutored kids and played with children On April 6, the nominees will find out if they will by faculty members, other students, and they can also self- while their parents were at work, and because of this, the receive the award, but each one of them has said that nominate, according to Bronwen Bares Pelaez, the chair of children were so inspired, they drew a picture for me when whether or not they win, their service in the community is the Student Life Awards. Once nominated, a review board we were all holding hands.” by no means over. pantherNOW.com Panther Press – Thursday, February 16, 2017 5 Campus Life events: Clubbing at BBC ‘Can’t say no when it’s free’ DAMIAN GORDON Cuisine” is being held students in the past is pizza and popcorn. Staff Writer at the Academic Center and incorporating tips “You know it’s not 1 Bus Stop Area from 4 given by students, who everyday you see roller- ebruary to 6 p.m. At the event, are given mason jars at skating in a university, may which came from Hannah events to suggest ideas [you go to h]ave fun and be the Katherine Ellis, graduate for future events. try not die,” he added. shortest assistant at BBC’s “We’ve seen that our The last day of the month Campus Life, students students really seem to month will hold Male but Campus Life at The will be giving a different like interactive games, Mentoring: Manhood BiscayneF Bay Campus is flavor of the world in having more of an open in the Media, followed aiming to make the most this monthly series with space to hang out, talk by an open mic night in of it. as they stuff back- activities to coincide. with their friends and the WUC Ballroom on to-back events for the Campus Life centers engage with each other,” March 1, where students juliane sunshine/panther press remainder of the month. their events toward Ellis said. will be able to showcase Julie Alba, junior biology major signs up to learn more about So- Cinco De Mayo’s their talents for all eyes ciety of Professional Journalism as members Jessica Parra (left) and event will feature mini to see. Peter Holland (right) explain the benefits. piñatas, trivia questions Ivy Siegel Mack, and painted mini flowers Student Organizations JULIANE SUNSHINE We’ve seen that our students really seem pots to round out its other Council Advisor Office of Staff Writer to like interactive games, having more educational components. Campus Life, oversees a “We’re going to have lot the happenings around With a Valentine’s Day theme, Campus Life and the Student of an open space to hang out, talk with some really good food. campus, developing a Organization Council held a club fair to invite students to join clubs at their friends and engage with each Chicken, some waffles, preference to specific The Biscayne Bay Campus. other, some really really good ones over time. sweet tea,” Ellis said. A personal favorite Hannah Katherine Ellis “It’s going to be very of hers are the midnight Graduate Assistant interactive, we’re very breakfasts held at the end Public Relations Student Society of Campus Life at Biscayne Bay Campus excited.” of every semester because America is an organization that George Espinosa, they’re “good for the focuses on PR majors, but we are senior who says he “can’t students to wind down.” open to all majors. Our goal is to try say no when it’s free,” Mack also mentions the and assist students in developing the has attended most events Freshman Luau because With back-to-back students and what they hosted by the BBC during of how newcomers and skills and knowledge that they need events planned, there’s want to see so they are his time at the University. seniors alike engage with for their future career in PR, usually something going typically planned by One of his favorite events each other. Jay Esquivel on for students to take other students who walk was the makeshift skating For more information Advertising Major part in between or after the same halls everyday. rink set up in the WUC on the events, visit on the Member of PRSSA classes. Ellis mentions how Ballrooms back in April Student Affairs website On Monday, Feb. 20, crucial pinpointing 2016, where they also and look out for flyers “Late Day Latte: Southern what has connected to had his favorites, free around campus. Society of Professional Journalism is the student professional of journalism, SPC wants to ‘take Miami’ it is the students who are broadcast, digital media or public relations MICHELLE SILVA “I had told somebody about “I started out as a Street Team [majors]. They are free to join the club ContributingWriter an event that I thought would be member and I kind of moved up and network with other students to pretty cool, and they took that into from there,” said Araujo. “A Street understand the media side. The next ith movie consideration and they made it an Team member would learn about the event is data workshop on Feb.28, nights, pit event. I didn’t think it was going to events and then go out to GC or high- events, happen but it happened,” Swink said. populated areas of the school, pass Peter Holland lecture and As a student-led organization, out flyers and inform students, trying Digital Media Studies concerts, the transitioning from general member to get them to go the events. It’s … Member of SPJ / Student Media Student Programming Council at to a higher position is common in marketing on the ground.” the WUniversity hosts an assortment SPC. Former general member and For members like Araujo, the most of events in order to balance variety current director of events, Amanda gratifying feeling of coordinating and novelty with tradition, says Erin Hernandez, advocates for students to events lies in building a community Swink, member and representative. join to open up to new experiences. within SPC, as it’s “more than events, “Directors try to think of something “As a general member, you would it’s the people,” she said. new, and there’s stuff that we do on a just basically come and help at the University culture is not limited Students of Community Health is the only yearly basis,” Swink said. events,” Hernandez said. “You get to the Modesto Maidique Campus so health club at BBC. Our main goal is to give The upcoming “Hearts on Fire” some perks that regular students don’t SPC coordinates events across both back to the community, so we do different skating event is one such event, really get because when we have our campuses to unite the student body. service events on campus to spread awareness sparked by SPC directors wanting concert in the spring and we have “I’ve seen them mostly at BBC on different health issues. This organization to bring something new to students. comedians and … we actually get to giving out free stuff like t-shirts, Traditions also make their way onto meet the artists.” keychains, this,” student Alexis means a lot to me because I am doing pre- the SPC calendar based on popularity For those who go on to gain a Rodriguez said while pointing at her med, so this is a pre-basis of what I am going with students, namely Build-a-Bear, position within SPC’s e-board, there cell phone’s case. to be doing in the future, which is done every year because, is another dimension of involvement. Beyond spanning across both Mishal Haq “it’s something that everybody loves “As a director, it’s even more campuses, SPC does not stay within Biology Major and they keep coming back to,” hands-on,” said Hernandez. “In the campus borders, since some events President of SCH Swink says. fall, we had Jodi Sweetin from Full are ventures. The task of setting up events, done House and so I got to directly work “SPC Takes Miami,” the by SPC directors, includes contacting with her and speak to her and meet organization’s latest venture, food vendors, collaborating with her.” describing the trips as an opportunity external companies and having forms E-board members attend for students to go out around Miami SGA is the voice of the students at approved. conferences that enable them to and become more acquainted with the BBC. This organization has taught me “We take a lot of things into forge the connections necessary to city. how to be involved on campus, there consideration, like what our general coordinate these events, according to While still in its trial stage, it’s is a lot of great opportunities and you members say, what other students say. Hernandez. inclusive of students who do not have meet really great people, We’re like ‘what do you [as students] Seeking ways to ensure student transportation means and one of their want?’” Swink said. involvement, SPC also offers latest trips was to Wynwood. Ronan Kelly As a former general SPC member, positions that involve piquing student For more information on SPC Computer Sience Major Swink experienced the attention to interest, as Street Team Coordinator events, visit studentaffairs.fiu.edu. Member of Student Government Association students’ wants herself. Nirvana Araujo explained. 6 Panther Magazine – Thursday, February 16, 2017 PantherNow.com PUTTING THE ‘U’ IN CAMPUS LIFE Student organizations enhance college experience

PANTHER HEALTH Asia. organization and found an adviser to oversee the full project. This passion eventually led me to take Japanese language From then on, the club has been actively promoting the classes and double major in Asian Studies. organization and taking part in CSO delegated activities to Another great benefit is the ability to learn to work with provide Korean culture to the FIU community. a team of like minded people. Briana Nelson-Canty, a senior majoring in Stephanie Sosa, a senior majoring in Chemistry, took communication arts and the current president of the Korean Culture Club, has had the opportunity to to work and communicate with a diverse group of individuals through MAYTINEE the club. KRAMER She said, “Through KCC, I have had the opportunity to Through KCC, I have had the opportunity to meet and work with individuals outside of FIU that work in Most students go to college to learn, but they will the community that are directly related to Korean Culture meet and work with individuals outside of FIU quickly learn that there is more to the college experience in South Florida.” than the classroom. that work in the community that are directly In addition, her position as president of the Korean College offers students opportunities to pursue interests, related to Korean Culture in South Florida. Culture Club has helped her build leadership skills. but sadly, too many college students pass up some of the Briana Nelson-Canty “As president of a university organization, it is your opportunities offered because they are too focused on either President responsibility to make sure all things fall into place. their academic life or their work life. Korean Culture Club Whether it’s planning meeting or events, filing for funding Students should also know that taking part in or any other documentation, it is my responsibility. So, extracurriculars will help them develop skills that will be having this position has allowed me to not only take useful inside and outside of the class. on responsibility, but it also has taught me to take on At FIU, there are all sorts of student councils, responsibility effectively.” organizations and clubs on campus, and there are so many She also discovered that she is a risk taker, but through people who have a common purpose or shared duties. part in the Asia Immersion Day last semester performing taking risks, she was able to join an organization she loves Aside from the plethora of opportunity, getting involved taiko drums, a type of Japanese drum, with a group of and worked hard to obtain her current position as president. on campus offers so many significant benefits that will students. According to Nelson-Canty, the Korean Culture Club make the college experience so much better. Having never learned the drums before, she said “It was itself provides insight to the lifestyle and traditions of South It’s a lot of hard work to create a club, and even more to exciting to learn something new related to the culture I’m Korean culture. The club holds general meetings once a keep a club going, but FIU’s Japan Club continues to prove studying. month and shares the knowledge that the members gained how successful it is. It was also fun to work as a team and help one another through study, travel and communication. Members of the Miguel Rischmaui, a senior double majoring in improve to give a great performance. It helped build soft club also volunteered for community service events such as computer science and asian studies, and also the president skills and team skills, but best of all, I was able to have lots the Nourish the Children of North Korea. of the Japan Club, said that the Japan Club was originally of fun. By being involved in the things happening at FIU, formed many years ago by students who had an interest in However, I wish there were more events like this. There Panthers can experience tremendous benefits to their college Japanese culture. are so many cool things to learn and showcase [about experience and future career. There should always be a “Throughout the years, the club has taken many paths, Japan], and I’d like to see more events highlight the country balance between a student’s academic and extracurricular but with each new group of students that take charge of the I am studying about.” activities and attending activities on campus are important club, [the] Japan Club evolves and becomes unique. Each Getting involved on campus further allows students for one’s well-being. group leading it is different than the previous, but the heart to become connected to their school and fellow peers. of Japan Club stays the same,” Rischmaui said. Colleges are full of resources, but the responsibility is on Maytinee Kramer is the Assistant Opinion Director Joining a student organization presents many the student to seek them out. for Panther Press. Her column, Panther Health, is a opportunities to learn more about yourself, your goals One such student did just that, and the Korean Culture commentary on maintaining one’s health during college. and your strengths. Having participated in numerous Asia Club was born. The original Korean Culture Club president specific events, I learned that I have a passion for studying first contacted FIU to find out the process of starting a new

LETTER TO THE EDITOR Sexual literacy still part of FIU’s curriculum

LETTER TO THE presentations/ workshops, during Freshman Experience classes, social, and resource programs conversation about sexual health, EDITOR which consent and LGBTQA where professors request and services.” The FIU Women’s breaking the taboo- and they’re narratives are addressed at length. presentations on any number of Center hosts Take Back the Night not going away any time soon. The Victim Empowerment topics, including Sexual Health. “to promote awareness about While it’s beyond these Program (VEP) works tirelessly The presentations are in-depth, the issues of sexual assault and department’s capabilities to to educate FIU about the It’s touching upon important aspects intimate partner/gender-based mandate that FIU integrate sexual On Us campaign, whose focus of sexual health, including violence on college campuses.” literacy and LGBTQA-specific is on prevention, bystander consent, safer sex tools, and an Insofar as the Healthy Living information into the curriculum, intervention, and resources for overview of STD’s/STI’s. Program’s genital-shaped they will continue to provide SOFIA victims. students thorough, factual, and PABLOS-AGUIRRE At Student Health Services, non-judgmental sexual literacy Sexual Literacy, while not a students can discuss sexual education. required part of FIU’s curriculum, health, safer sex practices, and is by no means absent. birth control options with a licensed medical professional. Insofar as the HLP’s genital-shaped costumes are Sofia Pablos-Aguirre Many students’ first contact concerned, we will say this: Gina and Rick, as they are with their healthcare services Low-cost STD/STI testing is also Office of Health Promotion known, are a part of HLP’s health-education culture. occurs at Freshman Orientation. available. Healthy Living Program, MMC The 2013 original skit was The Healthy Living Program designed to introduce students offers a variety of programming Sofia Pablos-Aguirre to the health-related departments on sexual literacy. Sexual Health Office of Health Promotion and campus resources. The time appointments cover STD’s/ Healthy Living Program, MMC allotted for these presentations STI’s and prevention methods. is insufficient to address issues Free, confidential HIV testing Letters to the Editor are not such as consent and LGBTQA with a certified counselor is costumes are concerned, we written by Panther Press Staff. narratives. also available. Free safer sex FIU SALSA and FIU Bridge will say this: Gina and Rick, as They are submitted by readers In order to give these issues materials are distributed at HLP provide in-classroom education they are known, are a part of of Panther Press. These views the appropriate consideration events and presentations, and and conduct tabling throughout HLP’s health-education culture. are separate from editorials and and weight, Counseling and free at the HLP offices. FIU. FIU’s MPAS LGBTQA These “comical” costumes allow reflect individual perspectives Psychological Services (CAPS) Additionally, HLP offers works with the LGBTQA student staff to break down barriers of contributing writers and/ conducts educational events, presentations and workshops. population by “developing with humor. Rick and Gina or members of the University consultations, and classroom This is especially true for and implementing educational, foster the possibility of an open community. PantherNOW.com Panther Magazine – Thursday, February 16, 2017 7 PANTHER EDITORIAL MMC and BBC should have one cohesive SGA FIU prides itself on the “Worlds Ahead” Government Association, which is divided into participating in the BBC campus. Biscayne makes a perfect practice point for university experience, but it feels as though the two branches, one for MMC and one for BBC. The same editions of the Panther Press are these activities. MMC and BBC campuses are worlds apart. They each receive the same amount of still circulated around all campuses, involving Nevertheless, SGA’s itinerary isn’t The campuses are only an hour’s drive funding and have an equal amount of power, information from each location and with the restricted to the shores of the almost-Bahaman away from one another and many students take but they each have their own president. same e-board members and writers putting the water. classes at both. If they are really supposed to be one unit, paper together. It’s a major component of student life and President Mark B. Rosenberg is the sole why is the power distributed between two The departments of Campus Life do vary what it decides for the school directly and president of the university, presiding over presidents? depending on the campus, but much of this has indirectly affects everyone involved in any each campus, but student life is divided in As mentioned, the campuses are relatively to do with what is available at either campus. form at FIU. its leadership and options, so a student’s near to one another, so there shouldn’t be an MMC is the bigger of the two, so many of The shared power and distinct leadership experience at one campus could potentially issue of the president not being able to make the student groups operate primarily out of the in SGA is an interesting and albeit confusing be a stark comparison to a student involved at it to meetings at either location, or other such MMC campus, either leaving BBC out of the set up, especially considering our proximities another. circumstances. picture completely or including rare events between each campus. Why should some student organizations be The main office of Student Media, for nearer to the BBC campus. If policies concern everyone at FIU equally separate but equal? example, as well as many other organizations, It makes sense, however, that the kayaking and the government is meant to be one cohesive Where things get confusing is in the Student is at MMC, but that doesn’t prevent us from and scuba club would be at BBC, since Key unit, why divide the power? Finding study nooks is BBC campus shows the way to be involved “spirit in a big way” part-time or full-time job. classmates. PULITZER’S So, how does a student “[We] meet on campus to PHENOMENA maintain balance? get to know each other and to With beautiful installments study,” Corral said. POLITICOBUZZ It’s your first Junior broadcast media major Emily and various locations to study From what I’ve seen, semester on Hernandez also shared Gonzalez’s in, campus life for a working the two most popular places campus and you sentiments about BBC and its emphasis student could be discovering to meet are the library and are in a bind — on student involvement. and taking advantage of Vicky’s Cafe, but meeting stuck between the “BBC is a calm campus, but when study nooks, just like Martina at Vicky’s can lead you to choice of being all events like Mrs. FIU are hosted here, Corral, a junior majoring in another discovery: the Frost academics or all you really get to see the pride our DANIELA PEREZ psychology, does. Art Museum right next door. FABIENNE social life. Well, Panthers have,” Hernandez said. “It’s not easy. My studies Although working students FLEURANTIN maybe it’s time you Campus life at BBC also creates If you’re attending Florida are my main priority and may not be as involved in find a balance of flyers and posters to promote International University and my term for “campus life” is extracurriculars, the fact that both, and Campus organizations on campus as well as pins currently do not have a job, studying on campus when I there’s a campus like MMC at Life at the Biscayne Bay Campus can to distribute to students. consider yourself lucky. can,” Corral said. their disposal is essential when help with that. Students can also enjoy the While a job is helpful in Modesto Maidique it comes to campus life. Campus Life at BBC takes the Restaurant and Business Fair that more ways than one, it might Campus offers plenty of Taking a different route to initiative “to engage students in is hosted at BBC annually. Over 30 not let you fully enjoy what it peaceful study areas such as class will open your mind and holistic learning by instilling diversity, businesses share their most popular means to be an FIU student. the green grass in front of the lead to more discoveries and if leadership and personal development cuisines and products with students, Hindering the FIU Ryder Business Building. you work, take advantage of through its program and services,” and over 600 attendees take part in the experience, however, doesn’t From Vicky’s Cafe to studying on campus and any according to the FIU Student Affairs event every year. necessarily mean halting it. Barnes & Noble, studying on other resources offered. website. And believe it or not, but all of these Our school offers a broad campus is the most valuable You never know who So, for all you BBC-ers out there events are sponsored by Campus Life at variety of campus life activities experience when it comes to will help you or what you’ll who are interested in getting involved BBC. and two beautiful campuses campus life, even for online discover. at FIU and outside the community, this The endless effort of inclusivity that make time management students. is the way to go. and involvement are apparent in all the easier and more enjoyable. Due to time management, Daniela Perez is a BBC may be a smaller campus, but activities and events that BBC provide With weekend plans and Corral said, she decided to contributing writer for Panther they show their spirit in a big way, with for their students. dawn to dusk activities, being take a few online classes this Press. Her column, Pulitzer’s the amount of events and activities that It’s a home where students, faculty an involved student doesn’t semester but it hasn’t stopped Phenomena, is a commentary are available on the campus. Just as the and staff become acquainted with one mean you can’t keep up with a her from interacting with her on human interest. Modesto Maidique Campus has Week another and learn more about what BBC of Welcome, for example, so does BBC. has to offer. And any student who wants to eat at Coming to BBC and seeing the the Breakfast Bonanza, participate in influence that this campus has on its Arts by the Bay and have lunch, or play students is extremely refreshing. It’s MAGAZINE some video games and have smoothies more than a place where students go PANTHER Production Manager (305) 348-6994 is more than welcome to do so. to class and go home. It’s a place of EDITORIAL BOARD [email protected] They also have Panther Power, the comfort where students know they have Nia Young spirit council at BBC. It’s responsible found something that they can excel in. Editor in Chief Director The Beacon is published on Mondays and for invoking “a sense of pride in This gives students a chance to see Cayla Bush Robert Jaross Thursdays during the Fall and Spring each student to enhance a sense of what they are interested in, meet new News Director Asst. Director community.” They host tailgates, people and gain access to a whole new semesters and once a week during Summer Guethshina Altena Alfred Soto provide transportation to athletic events world where they can embrace the B. One copy per person. Additional copies Sports Director are 25 cents. The Beacon is not responsible at MMC and so much more. culture and diversity that is BBC. CONTACT INFORMATION Camila Gonzalez, a sophomore Jayda Hall for the content of ads. Ad content is the sole majoring in journalism and international Fabienne Fleurantin is a staff Opinion Director Modesto Maidique Campus: responsibility of the company or vendor. GC 210, Mon-Fri 9:00 a.m.-5 p.m. relations, appreciates all that Campus writer for Panther Press. Her column, Michelle Marchante The Beacon is an editorially independent (305) 348-2709 Life at BBC does for its students. PoliticoBuzz, is a commentary that Entertainment Director Biscayne Bay Campus: newspaper partially funded by student “I like how they get students raises awareness about political issues Martina Bretous WUC 124, Mon-Fri 9:00 a.m.-5 p.m. and services fees that are appropriated by involved through different activities in the US and worldwide. She also Student Government. Multimedia Director (305) 919-4722 that are both informative and fun to be covers events at FIU’s Biscayne Bay Editor-in-Chief: a part of,” Gonzalez said. Campus. Cornell Whitehead (305) 348-1580 Copy Chief [email protected] Eshrat Nikrooe-Asli Advertising:

SEND US YOUR LETTERS DISCLAIMER EDITORIAL POLICY Have something on your mind? Send your thoughts (400 words maximum) to The opinions presented within this page do not represent the views Editorials are the unified voice of the editorial board, which is composed [email protected] or drop by our offices at either GC 210 or WUC 124. With of The Panther Press Editorial Board. These views are separate from of the editor in chief, management, and the editors of each of the four your letter, be sure to include your name, major, year, and copy of your student editorials and reflect individual perspectives of contributing writers sections. Panther Press welcomes any letters regarding or in response to ID. Panther Press will only run one letter a month from any individual. and/or members of the University community. its editorials. Send them to [email protected]. 8 Panther Magazine – Thursday, February 16, 2017 www.PantherNOW.com Aikido club teaches self-defense techniques that’s always bigger and faster. So, what they can learn to protect themselves if they are are you going to do for that person?” in danger. Panther Aikido club was discovered by “It’s something to do and something great former graduate student Mitch Fernandez especially for the girls if a creep is bothering in fall of 2010, according to Ashe. Ashe, a you on campus,” said Weiss. “If anything, mechanical engineering major, is the first this is a way to be able to protect yourself in member to have a certified black belt from for most of other students and the people that the aikido club. Originally a taekwondo attack you is always someone that you know. fighter, the senior joined the club after It’s great self-defense for yourself and you being invited by a friend. don’t have to be physically strong to do it.” “The transition was interesting,” said Gabriel Torres, another member of the Ashe. “It wasn’t really a big deal at the club, also encourages students to join the club time. But my time with the aikido club, I because of the benefits that it provides. The was the first person to go from white belt to freshman IT major enjoys martial arts, but black belt completely within this club. Like was physically unable to participate in any I didn’t come with Aikido experience from competitive martial art clubs before joining another dojo or anything. I started from Panther Aikido. this club and ended where I’m at now.” He also thinks that club is good for students The Miami Gardens native is also who don’t have anything else to do in their involved on campus as a member of the spare time. Peter Holland Jr./Panther Press anime club and a member of the National “To anyone who has nothing to do on Society for Black Engineers (NSBE). campus, take advantage,” said Torres. “You PETER HOLLAND JR. Unlike other martial arts such as taekwondo Every Tuesday and Thursday evening, never know the people you meet. You never Staff Writer or karate, aikido does not involve striking or each member will meet and train in the know what you’re going to learn. I was hoping ikido is no ordinary martial any form of ruthless aggression. The sport Gold Room on the second floor of the FIU to get into something that was more aggressive, art. The practice is not used focuses more on techniques. Recreation Center.. but you don’t need to be strong to do this. It’s as a platform of violence; “We focus on not causing harm. That’s the “I tried it out the first day and I stuck with all about technique and a wonderful way to instead it teaches students principle behind aikido,” said James Ashe, the it,” said Brianna Weiss, the vice president of defend yourself without messing up the other self-defense and energy president and instructor of the Panther Aikido the club. “I think it’s great, especially for girls person. It’s an option. You will learn a lot, if releasing techniques. club. “It’s all about taking balance. That’s to learn because I thought you need to have you keep at it, it will stay with you for life.” AAikido is a modern Japanese martial art, everything. Without having any experience, strength for this, you don’t have to be strong For more information about the Panther defined as a way of unifying life energy. It that helps a lot because you’re a blank slate. for this which is awesome.” Aikido Club, go to pantheraikido.org or involves entering and turning movements If you can’t do a technique slowly, you can’t Weiss, a junior biomedical engineer major, [email protected]. that redirect the momentum of the opponent’s do it at all because doing it fast and muscling encourages all students, especially the women attack. the person works, but there is always someone who live on campus, to join the aikido club so Being involved on campus makes a difference

HEATHER O’DELL Staff Writer go home,” said La Roz. “I used opportunities to take a lead La Roz advises FIU students to be that kind of student too on many projects and make to get involved on campus any until I decided to be involved meaningful connections way they can. There are plenty IU, primarily on campus and join Phi Delta that can even help me in my of organizations a student can a commuter Theta.” Having an active role professional career.” join whether it’s going Greek, school, has a Being head of the on campus really Along with the people you running for a position for lot of campus philanthropy committee for makes a difference. meet by being involved on Student Government or joining activities and Phi Delta Theta, La Roz has campus, all the fraternities a club that’s relevant to your organizations for students to many opportunities to help plan and sororities participate in major. be Finvolved in. And Nick La events on campus and most intramural sports. “Having an active role Roz, a junior studying pre-med, importantly give back to the “It’s always fun to play on campus really makes a thinks joining Phi Delta Theta community. Nick La Roz some games against other difference. I wouldn’t trade it has changed his experience at “Some people have mixed Pre-med organizations on campus with for the world,” La Roz said. FIU. opinions when joining a Junior some friendly competition” “The memories I’ve made “A lot of students just go fraternity or sorority,” said La Roz said. “We play soccer, during my time at FIU are ones to class, maybe catch a bite to La Roz. “Since I’ve joined basketball, softball, volleyball, I’ll never forget thanks to Phi eat, study a little bit and then Phi Delt, I’ve had many anything. You name it.” Delta Theta.”

Club sports ‘fun and flexible’ activity for students

are no athletic scholarships, no roaring club sports like it. baseball club and senior psychology JASMINE CASIMIR crowds and minimal adult leadership. “I like how we weren’t pressured into major Carl Alteme said. “I highly Asst. Sports Director Students conduct practices, make team dedicating so many hours into the team,” recommend joining a club sport, even if rules, raise money for uniforms and game said senior sports and fitness major you just want to join for new friends.” officials, and manage paperwork. It’s Montrell Robinson. Clubs have been so enjoyable for many lub sports give you a The former member of the intramural college students that if given the chance reason to get out of your basketball team said it’s flexible, fun, and to turn their teams into fully financed dorm and widen your it’s not as competitive as division sports. varsity sports, most said they would social circle. They also College sports aren’t limited to the decline. allow you to stay in shape I like how we weren’t high-caliber NCAA division sports that “It would be less fun,” Robinson said. while relieving some of the stress that pressured into dedicating so you watch from the student section or “We probably wouldn’t be involved for academicC life can bring. many hours to the team. on television. There are a few degrees the same reasons because varsity sports Juan Vasquez, the vice president of the of competition, ranging from intramural have restrictions, caps, and incentives. rock climbing club, said he has created team activities to club sports and But club sports eliminate the barriers and

an environment around his club for that Montrell Robinson University-owned teams. let anyone in to be free and do their best.” exact purpose. Sports and Fitness Studies For many, the biggest benefit aside If the University doesn’t have a sport “We provide a different point of Senior from continuing to play a beloved sport is that you’re interested in, you can also view with people at the university being the social connection. create your own club if you gather enough stressed all day,” said the international “It’s nice because you see the guys people who are interested and follow relations and economics major. “You can around campus and since they’re on a procedures laid out by FIU. relieve that same stress by joining our team with you, you have a relationship For a full list of club sports, visit club and rock climb.” college athletics without the pageantry or with them that you don’t have with a lot studentaffairs.fiu.edu. In intercollegiate club sports, there prerogative, and that’s the way athletes in of other people,” former member of the