Oakland University’s Independent Student THE Newspaper OAKLAND POST Feb. 28, 2018

SPIRITS HIGH ON THE BLACKTOP Men’s Basketball prevails against Milwaukee after honoring senior players PAGE 16

SAFETY RANKING TUITION EXPLAINED BLACK PANTHER Oakland campus rated second Tuition is on the rise and how the Marvel’s new movie sparks hope safest campus in U.S. money is spent for more diverse media PAGE 5 PAGES 10 & 11 PAGE 12

Photo by Brendan Triola / The Oakland Post ontheweb Staff Reporter Falin Hakeem reviews Oscar front-runner “Three Billboards” in this week’s online feature. Photo / IMDb thisweek www.oaklandpostonline.com February 28, 2018 // Volume 43. Issue 21

POLL OF THE WEEK What did you do for “spring” break this year?

A I partied every single night

B I watched 8 shows on Netflix

C I neglected all of my homework

D I went to bed early every night

Vote at www.oaklandpostonline.com

LAST WEEK’S POLL What do you wish was a Winter Olympics award?

A) “Biggest snowboarding faceplant” 8 votes | 19% B) “Most vigorous curling sweeper” PHOTO OF THE WEEK 15 votes | 35% C) “Best hockey boxing match” SENIOR NIGHT IN THE O’RENA // Oakland men’s basketball seniors Nick Daniels (pictured), 11 votes | 26% Jalen Hayes, Kendrick Nunn and Martez Walker were honored at the annual Seniors Night after a win over the Milwaukee Panthers. D) “Most stylish team uniforms” Photo // Brendan Triola 9 votes | 21%

Submit a photo to [email protected] to be featured. View all submissions at oaklandpostonline.com THIS WEEK IN HISTORY

February 26, 1965 60 Oakland students protested police brutality following an instance in Pontiac, Mich.

February 27, 1978 $75,000 was generated from an “Athletic Fee”, but student leaders were not able 7 9 19 to find how the money was used.

NEXT STEP WORKING FOR TESLA SPRING BREAK February 26, 2015 Former Oakland professor An Oakland alumus has Quick question: WHY IS As only a sophomore, Kahlil “Kay” looks to help students enter found himself working for Tes- OAKLAND’S SPRING BREAK Felder was a frontrunner for the Horizon the work force la in Solicon Valle. SO EARLY? League’s Player of the Year. Photo// Nicole Morsfield Photo// Sam Boggs Photo// Erin O’Neill

BY THE 21 2 1998 1 American athletes NUMBERS Medals the United became the youngest to The last time U.S. U.S men’s curling 2018 WINTER OLYMPICS States brought home win gold in snowboarding women’s hockey won earned its first medal this year events gold before 2018 gold medal NBC Olympics Staff Editorial OTHE OAKLANDTHE P POST ‘Never Again’: Parkland students Address 61 Oakland Center, Rochester, MI 48306 Phone 248.370.2537 or 248.370.4268 creating movement for change Web www.oaklandpostonline.com Email [email protected]

Katarina Kovac formed by Cruz. Staff Reporter “Mandatory background checks for every editorial board gun sale and limiting the age to possess or ac- Shelby Tankersley he survivors of the Feb. 14 mass shoot- quire firearms until the age of 21 would have Editor-in-Chief ing in Parkland, Fla. are calling for the prevented this shooting,” Chipman said. [email protected] T United States Congress to take action to A common debate in regard to gun owner- 248.370.4268 prevent future school shootings. Their actions ship lies in the Second Amendment and the Cheyanne Kramer are allowing for gun laws to be debated on a na- right to keep and bear arms. Managing Editor tional scale, unlike ever before. [email protected] “Most importantly, the court has also ruled 248.370.2537 Nikolas Cruz, a 19-year-old man who was that government has the right to regulate who previously expelled can possess guns and under what conditions in Elyse Gregory John Bozick from the high school, Photo Editor Web Editor support of public safety,” Chipman said. “If the [email protected] [email protected] opened fire at Marjo- government regulated guns like they regulate 248.370.4266 ry Stoneman Douglas cars in America, these events would be greatly High School (MSD) reduced.” in Parkland, Fla., kill- Since 2013, there have been nearly 300 editors copy & visual ing 17 and wounding school shootings in America — an average of Trevor Tyle Campus Editor AuJenee Hirsch Chief Copy Editor [email protected] many others. about one a week. Officials argue that a ma- Katie LaDuke Copy Editor The massacre at Mina Fuqua Copy Editor jor influence within these shooters is mental Laurel Kraus Life Editor Alexa Caccamo Copy Editor [email protected] MSD not only reignit- illness, but the facts beg to differ. Erin O’Neill Graphic Designer ed the national de- Prakhya Chilukuri Graphic Assistant “Many have estimated that mental health Skylar Tolfree Sports Editor bate over gun control, is only the proximate cause of around 5 per- [email protected] but also launched a Nicole MorsfieldPhotographer cent of gun violence incidents,” Chipman Samantha Boggs Photographer Simon Albaugh Social Media Editor group of teenage ac- said. “Most persons who suffer mental illness Brendan Triola Photographer [email protected] tivists. The movement are not violent. What researchers do see is that Samuel Summers Photographer that emerged in its aftermath is called “Never illnesses such as depression and access to a Again.” The students are holding a nationwide gun increase the risk of a successful suicide protest in Washington D.C., scheduled for March attempt.” writers distribution 24. President Donald Trump recently proposed Falin Hakeem Staff Reporter Rachel Burnett Distribution Director David Chipman currently serves as a senior that teachers should be armed in schools in an Mary Siring Staff Reporter Maxwell Pelkey Distributor policy advisor at Giffords, the gun violence Ariel Themm Staff Reporter Christian Hiltz Distributor effort to keep students safe. Chipman believes Katarina Kovac Staff Reporter Austin Souver Distributor prevention organization led by former Con- that it is a reckless and dangerous proposal. Dakota Brecht Staff Reporter Dean Vaglia Distributor gresswoman Gabby Giffords who survived an “It is a craven attempt of the gun lobby to Sadie Layher Staff Reporter Maxx Han Distributor assassination attempt in Tucson, Ariz. once again convince America that public Michael Pearce Staff Reporter Brittany Brewster Distributor Previously, he served as a special agent with safety is the responsibility of every individu- Emily Morris Staff Reporter the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Jessica Leydet Staff Intern al who can only survive by buying more guns Jordan Jewell Staff Intern advising Explosives (ATF) for 25 years. During this ca- and carrying them at all times at the ready to reer from 1987 until 2012, he performed many Garry Gilbert Editorial Adviser win a Hollywood gunfight,” Chipman said. “A [email protected] duties to include serving as a member of ATF’s police officer cannot be expected to guard an advertising 248.370.2105 version of SWAT, investigated and arrested gun entire school against a mass shooter carrying Whitney Roemer Ads Director Don Ritenburgh Business Adviser traffickers and supervised the ATF office in weapons of war and a willingness to die, ei- [email protected] [email protected] Flint, Mich. 248.370.4269 ther.” 248.370.2533 Chipman firmly believes that mass shoot- The survivors of the shooting at MSD have Angela Gebert Ads Assistant ings, such as the massacre at MSD, could have opened conversation regarding gun control in been prevented. ways that no other group of survivors has been “These events are not acceptable nor are able to. they normal,” Chipman said. “To prevent “Our children are leading where their par- follow us on Twitter these mass shootings, we have to more closely ents have failed,” Chipman said. @theoaklandpost regulate how people acquire firearms, espe- The Parkland students have had the ability to cially the same firearms I used as a member turn grief into a national movement. They’re follow us on Snapchat of ATF’s SWAT team.” here to make change while enforcing gun con- theoaklandpost There are many gun control measures that trol regulations, not by sending “thoughts and follow us on Instagram could have prevented this massacre per- prayers.” @theoaklandpost

Corrections Corner: The Oakland Post corrects all errors of fact find us on Facebook facebook.com/theoakpost Know of an error? Let us know at [email protected]. find us on Issuu issuu.com/op86

www.oaklandpostonline.com The Oakland Post // February 28, 2018 3 Campus

Adviser of the Year award YOUR VOICE MATTERS. April Thomas-Powell is celebrated after 10 years of advising students in the School of Nursing program

Jordan Jewell Powell joined the advising staff Staff Intern in the School of Nursing and has worked there since 2005. Her fo- pril Thomas-Powell, an ad- cus is on transfer students and stu- Attention First-Year Students & Seniors: viser in Oakland Univer- dents on academic probation. This year’s National Survey of Student A sity’s School of Nursing, has Having worked with at-risk stu- Engagement at OU is now open. Be sure to been awarded the 2017-2018 Ad- dents for over 10 years, Thomas- viser of the Year Award. Powell devotes herself to helping check your OU email and complete the survey The award was commemorated them stay motivated and on the by March 23 for a chance to win one of 150 with a plaque that can be found correct path. in the Kresge Library. It is given “I love the puzzles that come OU-themed prizes. out by the Professional Advisers along with the job,” she said. “Each Council each year to the academic student is different and you get to adviser they feel has most impact- help them figure out how to navi- ed students with his or her men- gate Oakland University in a way torship and guidance. Thomas- that will work for them. When I Your responses make a difference. Powell is also being recognized by think of what makes someone a SPEAK YOUR MIND. the National Academic Advising great adviser, compassion and Association. empathy definitely come to mind. You’re constantly learning how you can improve the lives of stu- dents because no two students will have the same questions.” “I started working with Many students worry about ad- students as someone viser meetings because they aren’t sure exactly how to prepare, an who was new to the issue Thomas-Powell encounters frequently. professional world and “Always write your questions Classifieds I fell in love with the down,” she said. “If you come into the office prepared then we have a work I was doing almost better chance at being able to help Rates: you.” 61 Oakland Center $0.35 per word ($7 min.) immediately.” She also pointed out that it’s im- 312 Meadow Brook Road Unlimited Frequency portant for students to be proac- Rochester, MI 48309 STUDENT DISCOUNTS April Thomas-Powell tive about meeting with an adviser. “You don’t want to wait until School of Nursing adviser you’re in a tough situation,” she said. “Look at the course catalogue and recognize the steps you need HELP WANTED: VALET PARKING Beginning her studies in Kansas, to take in order to reach your de- she has a bachelor’s and master’s gree.” degree in history and stumbled Valet parking attendants, must be 21 or older, must know how to into the world of advising unex- Additionally, Thomas-Powell drive a stick-shift, make up to $30/hour. pectedly. has a desire to help students with “I started working with students the social side of college life. Since Call (248) 740-0900 or apply online at http://firstclassvalet.com/ as someone who was new to the the OU community primarily con- valet-parking/employment-application professional world, and I fell in sists of commuters, it can be hard love with the work I was doing al- to develop a fulfilling social life. most immediately,” Thomas-Pow- “My advice to students is to stay ell said. on campus as much as possible,” ADVERTISE ANYTHING* she said. “It can be tempting to Working with students became Babysitting a passion for her after she joined go take a nap during your class Need something? Books Oakland’s staff. breaks, but try to stick around.” Cars Help Wanted Her final piece of advice was Want something “There was a position to work Garage Sales with students at risk and I got to encouraging students to join or- Want to provide Carpools help them set up paths to success,” ganizations that align with their Rent something? Misc., etc. she said. “It’s a chance to help stu- interests. dents reach their fullest potential.” “If you don’t see a student org Although she never had an inter- that speaks to your passions, cre- est in studying medicine, Thomas- ate one,” Thomas-Powel said.

4 February 28, 2018 // The Oakland Post www.oaklandpostonline.com Campus Community engagement boosts campus safety ranking to second

Sadie Layher 23 sworn officers that are police devices that are left unattended Staff Reporter certified and these officers go around campus such as in the through the exact same training Oakland Center or Kresge Li- n a ranking involving around standard city police officers go brary. When a situation such as 247 universities around the through. this arises, calling OUPD should Icountry, Oakland University The campus police also have be one of the first things to do. came out as second for campus a mutual agreement with neigh- The police will log the report, safety. boring communities. If Troy or look on security cameras, inter- The ranking was done by the Auburn Hills required backup, view others around the crime National Council for Home OUPD would be of assistance scene and attempt to locate the Safety and Security, and was and vice versa. stolen property. partially calculated based on “We are very proactive and Both officers say students, crime statistics on campus as we always have educational staff and faculty educating well as neighboring city crime programs and public safety pro- themselves is the best way to statistics. grams such as the ‘Lock It or protect themselves from various OU is similar to a city in popu- Lose It’ campaign,” OUPD Lieu- crimes. OUPD recommends to lation, there are about 20,000 tenant Nicole Thompson said. not leave items unattended and

active students which could be OUPD’s hope is that the com- with the second most popular Photo Courtesy of Oakland University on campus at any given point, munity will feel good about crime on campus, a Minor In The NSC ranked Oakland University as the second safest campus in the U.S. along with around 3,200 stu- Oakland ranking second out of Possession, save drinking for dents living in on-campus or around 250 universities. Michi- when the student is of age. Edu- partnerships that we have and ratings. Students are a huge help university affiliated housing. gan State University was number cation is the top priority at a uni- we work closely with Housing whether it be the past, present “Not only staff work on a goal 47 while University of Michigan versity whether it be studying or and dean of students,” Thomp- or future because around every like this, but a safe community is was number 51. However, both protecting against crime. son said. “We are not immune four years the entire popula- an engaged community,” Oak- officers encourage students and Community engagement is from crime and students need tion of the university and “city” land University Police Depart- staff that if they see something one of OU’s top priorities in to take initiative.” change and shift. ment Chief Mark Gordon said. they should say something. teaching, learning and being It is the close-knit local com- Students should “continue to Another factor is how many The most common crime proactive after graduation. munities that help lower crime create a safe environment and students per officers there are that is committed on campus “Even though we can’t take rates and bring the local uni- have the community remain en- on campus. There are around is larceny. Often, it is electronic full credit, it’s the community versities higher campus safety gaged,” Gordon said. Alumni and faculty add value to Oakland County Golden Grizzlies make the Elite 40 Under 40 for their accomplishments

Laurel Kraus Cheryl (Bartlebaugh) Boodram and is now the owner of Green Hippo education to provide students with a Life Editor Boodram graduated from Oakland Gifts in Lake Orion. She was a teacher for more hands-on experience through pro- in 2017 and is now a marketing and de- 10 years before creating the shop around ject-based classes where they are able he Oakland County Executive’s Elite velopment manager at Chief Financial four years ago with no previous experi- to utilize what they have learned. Pa- T40 Under 40 Class of 2018 included Credit Union and an ambassador for the ence. It has been voted both the best gift zur recently wrote and received a grant four Oakland University alumni, two cur- Rochester Regional Chamber of Com- shop and best boutique in Orion and for community partnership with a local rent students and one faculty member, merce. She is a corporate social respon- Oxford. Beyond the typical experience, makerspace where 16 students now go to all who were honored at the State of the sibility advocate and has certifications in the shop offers special events that ben- learn trade skills such as welding, wood- County Address on Feb. 7. Leadership Greater Rochester from the efit charity such as the recent Galentine’s working and textiles in order to create The 40 individuals who make this list Rochester Regional Chamber of Com- Day with proceeds going to Haven. projects that will positively impact their each year are under 40 years old and ex- merce and Disney’s Approach to Busi- communities. emplify great accomplishments in their ness Excellence. Kyle Nieporte respective fields within Oakland County. Nieporte graduated from Oakland Maria Willett Jennifer Lucarelli in 2011 and is now an administration Willett is currently pursuing a Mas- Alexander Ayar Lucarelli joined Oakland’s faculty in manager of surgical services at St. Jo- ters in Business Administration from Ayar graduated from Oakland, where 2009 as an associate professor of inter- seph Mercy Oakland. Before deciding to Oakland and is a founding member he met his wife of 10 years, in 2003, and disciplinary health sciences. She is also return to the nonprofit hospital realm at of the Young Professionals of Roches- is now an attorney specializing in com- chairperson of the Healthy Pontiac We St. Joseph Mercy, he helped to open eight ter, chief assistant to the mayor for the mercial litigation at McDonald Hopkins. Can! Coalition, which has brought to- surgery centers throughout the state of City of Rochester Hills and is involved He has been awarded the Super Lawyers gether around 50 organizations and in- Michigan. He will potentially be moving with the Woman in Municipal Govern- Rising Stars for Business Litigation from dividuals to strive toward better nutrition into a directorial level roll at the hospital ment Organization. As chief assistant, 2006 to 2013 and received a special trib- and physical activity health in Pontiac at in the coming weeks. she organized a partnership between ute from the legislature in the state of the policy level. She also works with the city hall and Life Remodel to clean Michigan in Nov. 2016. He also serves as Oakland County Sheriff Police Athletic Sarah Pazur up blight in Detroit which earned the a multi-term member of the Judicial Ad- League to provide sports programing and Pazur is currently pursuing a Ph.D in Spirit of Detroit Award, as well as ex- visory Committee for the United States mentorship to Pontiac children. educational leadership from Oakland cursions to emphasize the importance District Court for The Eastern District of Jennifer (MacDonald) Meier and is the principal of FlexTech High of parts of the city such as Leader Dogs Michigan. Meier graduated from Oakland in 2009 School. The school rethinks traditional for the Blind.

www.oaklandpostonline.com The Oakland Post // February 28, 2018 5 Campus Students awarded with Gjergj Kastrioti Scholarship Scholarship for students of Albanian descent has awarded over $100,000 since creation in 1999

Ariel Themm nities in Albania and in the U.S. A large four-year university or college and are A gala will be held by the Gjergj Staff Reporter portion of the money donated is given active in their campus community. The Kastrioti Scholarship Fund that will away to poorer communities in Albania scholarship has previously included not only recognize the students that fter state-wide consideration, to provide underprivileged school dis- winners from Wayne State University won, but also operate as a fundraiser the Gjergj Kastrioti Scholarship tricts with more supplies. and the University of Michigan, Ann to continue the scholarship distri- Awill be awarded to two students The scholarship looks for students Arbor. butions for future years. The event’s from Oakland University on Saturday with high GPAs who attend a Michigan “Being awarded and going to the list of guest speakers will include the March 3. gala, it’s where you basically con- mayor of Rochester, Cathy Aragona- This scholarship rewards academic nect, to build a network base,” said Daldin. achievement to students who are of at Betira Shahollari, a senior at OU In addition to the award ceremony least 50 percent Albanian descent. This and last year’s winner. “Even though for scholarship winners, the gala will fund was originally started in 1999 and ““Even though you need to you need to be some part Albanian include guest speakers that will give has awarded over $100,000 since then. to win, it’s really diverse there. You professional advice on how to be suc- This year’s winners are Kejda Amarku be some part Albanian to learn about different regions of Al- cessful and talk about previous win- and Greti Gashaj. win, it’s really diverse there. bania, where they have their own ners. “The scholarship is named after an traditions and cultures. There are There will also be dancing per- Albanian national hero,” Donald Demi- You learn about different re- some people who are born in Alba- formances at the end by a cultural ri, the chairman of The Gjergj Kastrioti gions of Albania, where they nia and those who are from the U.S. group. Scholarship Fund, said. “In the 1400s, have their own traditions and We’re able to create a place to unite “Sometimes it’s a pride thing,” the Turks were conquering left and and become familiar with each oth- Demiri said of the scholarship. “And right and Kastrioti was able to fight cultures.” e r.” we’re expecting students to do some- back against this in order to keep Alba- Shahollari is also a part of the Alba- thing about it. This scholarship is nia independent. He represents hero- Donald Demiri nian American Student Organization all about paying it forward. Whether ism and patriotism for us. He is like a Chairman of the Gjergj Kastrioti on campus. She will be attending the they want to be a doctor or a trans- knight that fought for our freedom.” Scholarship Fund gala to represent the chapter from lator or anything, as long as they’re The scholarship fund also holds their OU and to support the cause behind adding value to society and making St. Jude’s Walk to give back to commu- the scholarship. good contributions.” POLICE FILES

The caller that needs to cough OUPD dispatch received a call on Jan. 20 at 4:53 a.m. from a subject stating her and her daughter had to cough. The caller sounded disoriented, would not clarify their last name, refused medical or police attention and had loud music playing. The facts they did provide changed as the conversation continued. The caller first described that her daughter, that was presumably with her, was first in her 30s and then was later described as 17 or 19 years old. They were first in a vacant house, then in a campus bathroom, and then back in a vacant house. Attempts to transfer the caller to Oakland County Dispatch were fruitless, as they would terminate the call and then call back OUPD. Officers started to track the phone number, tracing it to a address in Oak Park. Over the next several weeks, the subject called OUPD a number of times, eventually just being placed on hold each time. Slander threats An Oakland University student contacted the dean of students on Jan. 4 and OUPD regard- ing another student who had been harassing him. The harassing student had accused him of sexually abusing her last year, but the investigation found him not in violation. He said that his accuser was posting pictures of him online stating that he had sexually abused her. OUPD con- tacted the student and explained that the way in which she was pursuing the matter could get her into trouble. She stated that she understood and would stop posting until she contacted an attorney. The stalker ex An individual came into OUPD’s police station to file a report of an ex-boyfriend that had been harassing her via text message, email and showing up at her apartment. The two had dated for a month. She stated that she had made it clear that she did not want him to contact her anymore, blocked him on social media and his number, but he would use different phones to contact her. She showed three different number from earlier in the day. OUPD spoke with the male, warning him of the consequences of continued contact with her and he stated that he understood and would no longer contact her. Compiled by Mary Siring, Staff Reporter

6 February 28, 2018 // The Oakland Post www.oaklandpostonline.com Life Former professor helps students take ‘Next Step’ Shelby Tankersley Docs and makes sure their application mate- Editor-in-Chief rials are concise and impactful. He charges $65 for an hour, $90 for an hour and a half and dward Nakfoor entered a journalism $120 for two hours. classroom at Oakland University in Sep- Nakfoor has always looked at applying for Etember 2015 not expecting to enjoy his a job as a job of its own. It’s a mindset, and new job all that much. But after a few class one of Next Step’s purposes is to help stu- WHERE sessions, he began to love getting up in front dents maintain that mindset as they search of aspiring journalists and starting each after- for internships or careers. noon class with the same question: “When I started working out of my house in “So tell me, what’s going in the world to- 2000, I would work like I was going to an of- day?” fice,” Nakfoor said. “I would get up, get some- His students’ answers, or sometimes lack thing to eat, have a cup of instant coffee, put thereof, gave Nakfoor a passion for mold- a suit and tie on, walk to my office, hang my FRESH ing minds and helping students figure out jacket over my chair and then go make a pot where they wanted to fit in to the world they of coffee. So I would tell a student to get out were about to enter. of the house and put themselves in that mind- Life has since taken Nakfoor out of the teach- s e t .” ing field, but his passion to help students enter To help keep that mindset, Nakfoor helps the working world persists. Consequently, Na- students develop a personal brand and a plan & FAST kfoor has taken his experience as a public re- to get a job they can be passionate about. One ® lations practitioner, columnist, educator, tutor, of his biggest pieces of advice to students is to MEET branding consultant and publicist to help stu- remain confident in their abilities to do a job dents prepare for job applications with his busi- well. ness Next Step. “You’ve got to banish the word ‘just’ and “I would always tell students they need a stop saying, ‘Well I’m just a college student,’” fresh set of eyes [on their work],” Nakfoor said. Nakfoor said. “’Just’ is the worst word, it’s the “So I’m that fresh set of eyes. I was working on worst word. Don’t say ‘just’ and don’t apol- my own resume recently and had someone ogize about yourself. There’s nothing to be look at it. They pointed out some issues, and sorry about, be confident.” you know, since it’s my resume I thought ev- With confidence, top-notch application ma- erything was fine. It takes that fresh set of eyes, terials and the right mindset in tow, Next Step and that’s what I am.” hopes to have the next generation ready for the Next Step focuses on developing graduate work force, and Nakfoor looks forward to having school applications, resumes, cover letters, a students to teach once again. personal brand and a job search strategy. Na- “It’s really fun for me,” he said. “It’s great to kfoor meets with students in coffee shops or hear when they do well on an assignment or get via FaceTime, whichever the student prefers. an internship. It’s very gratifying, there’s noth- Nakfoor works alongside students via Google ing like it.” WE DELIVER!

VISIT JIMMYJOHNS.COM TO FIND A LOCATION NEAR YOU

Nicole Morsfield / The Oakland Post Edward Nakfoor goes over common errors in resumes and cover letters with a group of students. www.oaklandpostonline.com The Oakland Post // February 28, 2018 7 Life A mother and a college student

Emily Morris cused on someone who was far more being a full-time student and keep a Staff Reporter important than any college meeting. part-time job. Her daughter, Elenora, was born dur- Being a student mother, of course, “I thought people would look at me ing her transition into college, possi- does encompass a variety of challeng- and label me.” bly labeling her as a teen mom before es, despite being blessed with sup- she could even begin creating her portive family and friends. Orchard amantha Orchard, a pre-nursing identity in the next chapter of her life. ensured that her available study time student at Oakland University, “At first, I was kind of embarrassed does dwindle when she’s at home was use to being labeled by roles to tell others that I was a teen mom,” and focusing on schoolwork within S Orchard said. “Not that I don’t love the time available is difficult, as well. such as “athletic,” “preppy” or “nerdy” has been the focal point of countless my daughter more than anything, but If college wasn’t already enough of a movies and is often glamorized, Or- there’s such a harsh stigma for teen juggling act, balancing motherhood chard was preparing to take on a more moms.” adds a new element to every day, too. unique role than the average student. Soon Orchard was able to defy Despite the everyday inconvenienc- For any student, sticking to the status solely being labeled as a teen mom es of simultaneously unraveling the quo is probably a much easier task in and found several accompaniments responsibilities of parenthood and Photo courtesy of Samantha Orchard Disney’s “High School Musical” than for that title, which she attributes adulthood, it seems she’s seamlessly Samantha Orchard and her daughter Elenora. during actual preparation for college. entirely to the positive feedback that intertwined all the labels in her life. chard, not something she specifically In fact, some students, like Orchard, surrounded her. For instance, a trip In fact, Orchard gives Elenora some choose, but the light in her eyes could are blessed with unexpected role re- to Lima, Peru with MEDLIFE became credit for influencing her decision to be a key to illuminate how she feels. sponsibilities that are life changing a defining point on her journey to be- pursue nursing. A medical field was When holding Elenora, she seems to during college. coming a nurse, and being a teaching always a part of her future plans, but be consumed by a glow of happiness Each encounter throughout college assistant for Oakland’s Honors Col- her role as a mother pushed her to that resonates across her account, as has the potential to open new doors lege gave her a second leadership role. choose nursing because of the com- well. regarding personal life, spirituality or Nevertheless, she claims her family is plementing qualities of nursing and “Now, being a young mom is not the career pathways, but Orchard was fo- the main source of her independence motherhood. only thing that defines me, just a part,” to embark on opportunities, sustain Mother was a label given to Or- Orchard said. VP of University Advancement hired

Shelby Tankersley make a fundraising operation that will Editor-in-Chief be robust and able to fund itself,” Uni- versity Provost and head of the position’s ollowing a national search that began search committee, James Lentini, told Fback in Nov. 2017, Oakland Univer- The Post in November. “It’s required, re- NOW HIRING: WEB EDITOR sity President Ora Hirsch Pescovitz has ally, of all public institutions now. Hav- ing the systematic pieces in place to raise announced that Micheal Westfall will Responsibilities include: Applicants should: be the university’s first Vice President funds on a sustained basis is what we’re of University Advancement pending ap- really looking for.” Creating the design and Have a strong command of proval from the Board of Trustees. Out of the applicant pool for the posi- layout of the website as AP Style as well as media Westfall comes to Oakland from East- tion, Lentini was especially impressed well as formatting articles ethical and legal standards. ern Washington University, where he by Westfall’s potential to maintain rela- online. served as Vice President for Advance- tionships with donors in an academic Be comfortable using ment and Executive Director of the setting as opposed to a corporate one. Attending Tuesday night WordPress, SoundCloud Foundation for 11 years. Westfall has “[We needed someone] with the inter- production to publish and other website design also worked with Radford University, personal skills, the experience and track stories online. tools. Virginia Tech University, Georgetown record of being able to work with the University, Michigan State University president directly and the ability to work Writing at least one story a Be open to new ideas and and the University of Toronto. with major donors,” Lentini said. “That week. be able to adapt to digital balance with him is what stood out.” media’s everchanging “I am delighted to welcome Michael Lentini added that he most looks for- Assisting the Managing standards. Westfall to my cabinet to lead fundrais- ward to seeing Westfall move Oakland Editor in the management ing and alumni relations for OU,” Pes- toward making more connections with and mentoring of The Post’s Position e ective covitz said in a press release. “This is an alumni and increasing individual dona- contributing students. May 2018 exciting time as Michael joins us to take tions to the university, which is some- our advancement team to the next level.” thing Oakland has lacked in the past. As the VP of Advancement, Westfall Westfall will start at his work with Oak- Applications will be accepted through March 24. will captain many of Oakland’s fund- land on March 1, pending BOT approval. raising initiatives as faithful donors are “My family and I are thrilled to return Applicants can send a resume, cover letter and three becoming increasingly important for ‘home’ to Michigan to join and con- writing samples to Editor-in-Chief Shelby Tankersley at universities to have. Westfall’s position tribute to the OU community,” Westfall [email protected] will also be key in creating fundraising said in a press release. “I am excited to campaigns and maintaining relation- partner with President Pescovitz to cre- ships with alumni. ate the vision and strategies for the next “We have been looking for how to campaign effort.”

8 February 28, 2018 // The Oakland Post www.oaklandpostonline.com Life Oakland alumnus takes on automotives in Silicon Valley

Sadie Layher who teach at OU. Staff Reporter According to Meyer, stresses that work- ing for a company that a person believes Tesla Inc., a high profile automotive in and actually wants to work in is the key company in Silicon Valley, is currently be- for future careers. Networking in any in- ing influenced by a recent Oakland Uni- dustry is necessary as well as being proac- versity alumnus. tive and being readily available for future Tesla is an automotive company that employer opportunities. manufactures fully electric vehicles and Currently Meyer resides in San Francisco, most recently Elon Musk, the creator Calif, which is about a 45 minute commute helped send a car into space titled Space from Palo Alto or Silicon Valley. For refer- X. One of the business models is to create ence, San Francisco is about 2,400 miles more affordable and accessible clean trans- away from Meyer’s Alma Mater of OU. portation. “I am a huge advocate for Detroit. Howev- Rob Meyer graduated from Oakland in er, I always believed that there is also an en- 2008 with a degree in business manage- Sam Boggs / The Oakland Post tire world out there to explore,” Meyer said. ment. Meyer is from the Lake Orion com- Tesla cars line the parking garage outside of the car dealer in Somerset Collection in Troy. Fear is often an accompaniment of munity, and during his time at OU, he was worked there until 2012 and, after a job offer, lationships with Tesla’s innovative suppliers. change regardless of how far a job might the student body president. moved to Ford Motor Company which in- Along with the other skills, Meyer said require a future employee to go. Fear is Lizabeth Barclay, Meyer’s former pro- volved traveling to China and hopes to travel that staying in “ludicrous mode” is key. temporary and there will always be another fessor for Intro to Organizational Behav- abroad again soon. This led to Tesla recruit- Ludicrous mode is a new setting within opportunity waiting. There will always be a ior (ORG 3300), a course required of all ing him in 2015 where he has been working new vehicles Tesla is producing. It allows period of adjustment. undergraduate SBA majors, remembers ever since. the car to speed from 0 to 60 mph in under Meyer stresses that there are a significant his work ethic. The position Meyer has at Tesla is global three seconds. number of opportunities, often more than “He actively participated and asked supply manager, specifically for all the ve- “Having the ability to solve problems, students realize. OU has a lot of resources at questions. He engaged the material and hicle’s safety systems. This includes airbags adapt quickly and keep an open mind student’s fingerprints along with internships saw applications to his work and life,” Liza- and seatbelts, steering wheels and also sen- definitely helped me secure a job at Tesla,” and workshops. beth Barclay said. sors inside cars. Meyer negotiates contracts Meyer stated. “Don’t scare yourself into thinking you Meyer became involved in the automo- with suppliers while working cross function- Critical thinking is key component for can’t do more or reach for the high cher- tive world when he took an internship at ally with the engineering, finance and man- those working in the automotive field. It is ries,” Meyer said. “Get yourself involved Continental, a tier 1 automotive supplier. He ufacturing departments and maintaining re- often a course goal for various professors and continue thriving.” Welcome Oakland University Opening March 2018 We are hiring! L I A N R E STAU R A I TA N T

WINE BAR Hiring for all positions Apply online: https://goo.gl/jf8Cdt 401 S Main Street, Rochester MI 48307 or scan the QR code dmarcositalian.com | 248.759.4951 www.oaklandpostonline.com The Oakland Post // February 28, 2018 9 Oakland’s most recent tuition increases 3.74% Story by Katie LaDuke // Design by AuJenee Hirsch // Graphics by Prakhya Chilukuri Fall 2017 In June 2017, the college education has become a necessity Knox said some other areas the money goes toward are Board of Trustees when searching today’s job market. Many em- scholarships, improvements to classrooms and labora- approved a 3.74% ployers require candidates to have at least a tories, maintenance of buildings and insurance. Despite bachelor’s degree. According to the National these reasons, some students don’t know where their tuition increase. Center for Education Statistics, around 20.4 money goes and feel that universities don’t adequately Freshmen and million students were expected to attend inform the student body. sophomores paid AAmerican colleges and universities for fall 2017. This is “Honestly, I have no idea,” senior Andrea Kumm said. “I $12,420 annually 5.1 million more than fall 2000. would think it goes to OU to help with bills and construc- The number of college students seem to be on the rise tion, but I don’t think that’s right.” and juniors and every year, despite the steady increase in college tuition. The elevated cost, no matter the factors included, di- seniors paid U.S. News reported that the average 2016-17 academic rectly affects students. $14,392.50 year tuition at in-state universities was $10,691 for public “Full tuition scholarships are a thing of the past,” Paino and $41,727 for private. This is more than twice the 2000 said. annually. average where in-state public universities were at $3,609 She explained that full tuition scholarships often don’t and private universities were $18,613. cover tuition in full in today’s world. Those scholarships The Daily Beast reported that the price of tuition has in- usually only cover around 85 percent. She also said that creased 1,120 percent since 1978. This is more than any only 1.25 percent of universities in the U.S. provide full other part of the United States’ economy. need-based financial aid. One of those schools is the Jill Blevins, a 1993 Oakland University graduate, re- famed Harvard University. members when she only had to pay $100 per credit hour. “Some students need all the financial help they can 3.95% Her yearly tuition for classes with room and board came get,” Kumm said. Fall 2016 to around $6,000. But financial aid has taken on a different form in recent “Oakland did raise tuition while I was there, but it never years. Scholarships and grants that don’t have to be paid In June 2016, the rose a lot,” Blevins said. back are the more traditional and popular forms of finan- Dr. Maria Paino, a sociology professor, explained there cial aid. Students are now relying on federal and private Board of Trustees are two main reasons why the cost of college continues loans to pay for school. These loans–while they pay for approved a 3.74% to go up: less state funding and expensive administration school in the moment–are required to be paid back after tuition increase. salaries. graduation. Freshmen and “We serve the state,” Paino said. “That is our original “The average person leaves college with $25,000 in stu- purpose.” dent loan debt,” Paino said. sophomores paid But when colleges and universities are receiving less Students have to determine if a college education is $11,970 annually funding from the state, institutions have to make up that worth taking out loans that need a cosigner and have and juniors and difference somewhere else. This is what causes a rise in hefty interest rates. seniors paid tuition. “Ever since I was five years old I knew I wanted to be a According to the Center of Budget and Policy Priorities, teacher,” Kumm said. “To be a teacher I had to go to col- $13,875 annually. 46 states–with the exception of Montana, North Dakota, lege. My parents couldn’t afford to pay for my whole bill, Wisconsin and Wyoming–all spent less per student for so loans had to be taken out. It’s stressful knowing tuition the 2015-16 school year than they did before the reces- goes up a lot and that I have to apply for my money from sion. different loans.” Paino said there’s not necessarily a deficit when it Oakland freshman Emilia Gnida often thinks about comes to money for universities. Politicians in the capi- how the price of tuition impacts the way she views her tol are deciding to put less toward public education when education. By the time she finishes her undergraduate deciding budgets. and graduate degrees, she will have accumulated around There are some other ways schools have been dealing $50,000 in student loans. with less state funding. Michele Knox, Oakland’s director “I have drive and motivation to achieve my career goal, of budget and financial planning, said some ways include but the cost is what pulls me back,” Gnida said. “It’s sad to increasing enrollment of out-of-state students who pay a me that before I make any decisions related to school, I higher tuition rate, increasing the overall number of stu- think of the cost first. Not how much I would enjoy it or its dents admitted and reducing expenses. benefits. I have had to make most of my decisions based Then there’s the salaries for top university adminis- on how much is covered before I have to pay. It makes tration. These are presidents, vice presidents and deans. college more stressful and irritating than it should be.” Paino explained their salaries can be more than six times This mindset for people can carry over after graduation. what professors make. Paino explained that many young people are waiting to “That particular faction of the university has exploded,” get married and to make more extravagant purchases Paino said. with houses and cars. Oakland currently has 11 administrative executives “When you pay the equivalent of a mortgage in student according to the presidential organization chart on Oak- loan payments, then you don’t go get a mortgage,” Paino land’s website. Almost all of these executives have assist- said. ing positions under them. There are some ideas floating around regarding what When universities keep hiring these administrators the education system and colleges can do for students. with expensive salaries, it starts to add up. Paino suggested interest rates and payment schedules Forbes recognized Michael Crow from Arizona State for loans need to be addressed. She also thinks schools University as the highest-paid public university president should start to think more about the “student experience” in 2017. His salary came to $1,554,058. The top eight on and how the cost affects them. that list made $1 million or more. “I think those who come up with these budgets need to “We are paying them an exorbitant amount of money,” ask the students about their opinions and take a walk in Paino said. their shoes to see how detrimental these prices can be to There are other factors that go into the cost of tuition. their future and their bank account,” Gnida said. The price covers class time and is often broken down into If the graphs and state funding cut backs are any indica- credit hours. tors, tuition will likely keep rising. college education has become a necessity Knox said some other areas the money goes toward are when searching today’s job market. Many em- scholarships, improvements to classrooms and labora- ployers require candidates to have at least a tories, maintenance of buildings and insurance. Despite bachelor’s degree. According to the National these reasons, some students don’t know where their Center for Education Statistics, around 20.4 money goes and feel that universities don’t adequately million students were expected to attend inform the student body. AAmerican colleges and universities for fall 2017. This is “Honestly, I have no idea,” senior Andrea Kumm said. “I 5.1 million more than fall 2000. would think it goes to OU to help with bills and construc- The number of college students seem to be on the rise tion, but I don’t think that’s right.” every year, despite the steady increase in college tuition. The elevated cost, no matter the factors included, di- U.S. News reported that the average 2016-17 academic rectly affects students. year tuition at in-state universities was $10,691 for public “Full tuition scholarships are a thing of the past,” Paino and $41,727 for private. This is more than twice the 2000 said. average where in-state public universities were at $3,609 She explained that full tuition scholarships often don’t and private universities were $18,613. cover tuition in full in today’s world. Those scholarships The Daily Beast reported that the price of tuition has in- usually only cover around 85 percent. She also said that creased 1,120 percent since 1978. This is more than any only 1.25 percent of universities in the U.S. provide full other part of the United States’ economy. need-based financial aid. One of those schools is the Jill Blevins, a 1993 Oakland University graduate, re- famed Harvard University. members when she only had to pay $100 per credit hour. “Some students need all the financial help they can Her yearly tuition for classes with room and board came get,” Kumm said. to around $6,000. But financial aid has taken on a different form in recent “Oakland did raise tuition while I was there, but it never years. Scholarships and grants that don’t have to be paid rose a lot,” Blevins said. back are the more traditional and popular forms of finan- Dr. Maria Paino, a sociology professor, explained there cial aid. Students are now relying on federal and private are two main reasons why the cost of college continues loans to pay for school. These loans–while they pay for to go up: less state funding and expensive administration school in the moment–are required to be paid back after salaries. graduation. “We serve the state,” Paino said. “That is our original “The average person leaves college with $25,000 in stu- purpose.” dent loan debt,” Paino said. But when colleges and universities are receiving less Students have to determine if a college education is funding from the state, institutions have to make up that worth taking out loans that need a cosigner and have difference somewhere else. This is what causes a rise in hefty interest rates. tuition. “Ever since I was five years old I knew I wanted to be a According to the Center of Budget and Policy Priorities, teacher,” Kumm said. “To be a teacher I had to go to col- 46 states–with the exception of Montana, North Dakota, lege. My parents couldn’t afford to pay for my whole bill, Wisconsin and Wyoming–all spent less per student for so loans had to be taken out. It’s stressful knowing tuition the 2015-16 school year than they did before the reces- goes up a lot and that I have to apply for my money from sion. different loans.” Paino said there’s not necessarily a deficit when it Oakland freshman Emilia Gnida often thinks about comes to money for universities. Politicians in the capi- how the price of tuition impacts the way she views her tol are deciding to put less toward public education when education. By the time she finishes her undergraduate deciding budgets. and graduate degrees, she will have accumulated around There are some other ways schools have been dealing $50,000 in student loans. with less state funding. Michele Knox, Oakland’s director “I have drive and motivation to achieve my career goal, 8.48% of budget and financial planning, said some ways include but the cost is what pulls me back,” Gnida said. “It’s sad to Fall 2015 increasing enrollment of out-of-state students who pay a me that before I make any decisions related to school, I higher tuition rate, increasing the overall number of stu- think of the cost first. Not how much I would enjoy it or its In July 2015, the dents admitted and reducing expenses. benefits. I have had to make most of my decisions based Then there’s the salaries for top university adminis- on how much is covered before I have to pay. It makes Board of Trustees tration. These are presidents, vice presidents and deans. college more stressful and irritating than it should be.” approved a 8.48% Paino explained their salaries can be more than six times This mindset for people can carry over after graduation. tuition increase. what professors make. Paino explained that many young people are waiting to This violated “That particular faction of the university has exploded,” get married and to make more extravagant purchases Paino said. with houses and cars. the state cap of Oakland currently has 11 administrative executives “When you pay the equivalent of a mortgage in student 3.2%. according to the presidential organization chart on Oak- loan payments, then you don’t go get a mortgage,” Paino land’s website. Almost all of these executives have assist- said. ing positions under them. There are some ideas floating around regarding what When universities keep hiring these administrators the education system and colleges can do for students. with expensive salaries, it starts to add up. Paino suggested interest rates and payment schedules Forbes recognized Michael Crow from Arizona State for loans need to be addressed. She also thinks schools University as the highest-paid public university president should start to think more about the “student experience” in 2017. His salary came to $1,554,058. The top eight on and how the cost affects them. that list made $1 million or more. “I think those who come up with these budgets need to “We are paying them an exorbitant amount of money,” ask the students about their opinions and take a walk in Paino said. their shoes to see how detrimental these prices can be to There are other factors that go into the cost of tuition. their future and their bank account,” Gnida said. The price covers class time and is often broken down into If the graphs and state funding cut backs are any indica- credit hours. tors, tuition will likely keep rising.

These are the 10 people who got paid the most during the 2016-17 school year. Each person’s job is partially or fully funded by tuition dollars.

Note: The associate dean of student affairs is currently a vacant position. No information could be found on who occupied the position during the 2016-17 academic year. The views expressed in Perspectives do not necessarily represent Perspectives those of The Oakland Post. Black Panther is a Oakland County movie for the ages Parks and Recreation

AuJenee Hirsch Chief Copy Editor WE Your SUMMER Warning: This review contains spoilers.

wo things in this world go together better than peanut butter and jelly— HAVE 2018 JOB TMarvel and Chadwick Boseman. Marvel’s “Black Panther” hit theaters Fri- day, Feb. 16 and has come to be known as the best Marvel movie to date. In its opening weekend, “Black Panther” made a whopping $202 million and made Recreation Program & Services, $108 million the following weekend. The 5 Golf Courses, 2 Waterparks, 6 Day Use Parks, movie has earned around $400 million within 10 days of release, which makes it the 3 Dog Parks, 2 Campgrounds, 6 Grill Operations third fastest grosser of all time behind “Ju- rassic World” ($404 million) and “The Force Awakens” ($540 million). Apply at OakGov.com/jobs Marvel has done it once again with pro- ducing an amazing story line that is easy Call 248-858-0530 for more information to follow and not complicated. The movie Photo courtesy of IMDb begins in Oakland, Calif. in the 1990s Black Panther is a must see Marvel sensation. OaklandCountyParks.com where someone is murdered and a boy is seen left alone. cans feel toward white people. Jordan #OCPRJOBS This scene is basically the reason for seemed very authentic in his role and it everything that happens in the movie. was hard to dislike him because as a black While the opening and premise of the person it was really easy to relate to his movie is a bit cliché, the underlying themes feelings and understand why he felt the of oppression and racism make all the differ- way he felt. ence. In an article written in Rolling Stone, The best part of the movie was T’Challa’s 1% CASH BACK director Ryan Coogler explained why he little sister, Shuri. Letitia Wright brought needed to make “Black Panther” after finish- Shuri’s humor, spunk and intelligence to OU Credit Union Platinum Plus Visa Credit Card ing the hit “Rocky” reboot “Creed”. life, and I couldn’t imagine anyone else “The biggest thing for me was the themes as the iconic character. The comedic relief of the story – letting them [Marvel] know wasn’t over the top like we’ve seen in the where my head was at and making sure past, but it was just enough and came right they would get on board,” Coogler said to when it was needed. Rolling Stone. “I was very honest about the The movie has become a huge part of idea I wanted to explore in this film, which black culture—hello, it’s the first black su- is what it means to be African. That was perhero this generation has seen on the one of the first things I talked about. And big screen! That’s a huge deal for the black they were completely interested.” community who oftentimes sees African Although the young filmmaker only had Americans portrayed as criminals in the two movies under his belt, “Fruitvale Sta- media. To see a black man in a position tion” and “Creed,” he excelled at “Black of power and as a good guy provides the Panther,” and I’m thrilled Marvel didn’t younger members of the black community contact anyone else for the job. inspiration to be like Black Panther. This The movie was cast perfectly, and I’m movie is inspiring in more ways than one, not just saying that because 99 percent and I for one, am glad that there is finally a of the cast was black, but because eve- movie about black people that isn’t about Visit us in the Oakland Center to start ry person fit the role of their character. gang violence or drugs. earning 1% cash back on all purchases today! Boseman in “Black Panther” was a com- If you haven’t gone to see the movie that plete contrast to the T’Challa we saw in is demolishing the box office right now, I “Captain America: Civil War”. T’Challa recommend that you do. Not just because aka Black Panther presented himself you may be a huge Marvel fan, but to see with the grace and dignity of a king, but a pretty accurate representation of black oucreditunion.org was also very humble with his people people that hasn’t been seen on the big Federally insured which made him a likeable character. screen before. Get ready to be welcomed by NCUA Members will earn 1% cash back on purchases. Cash back is not earned on tax In contrast, Michael B. Jordan as Erik into Wakanda! payments, any unauthorized charges or transactions, cash advances, convenience checks, balance transfers, or fees of any kind. Account must be in good standing to Killmonger was the ideal candidate to redeem cash back. Returns result in the loss of cash back equal to amount returned. represent the rage many African Ameri- Rating: 5/5 stars Negative cash back will be given if returns or credits exceed purchases.

12 February 28, 2018 // The Oakland Post www.oaklandpostonline.com Perspectives The views expressed in Perspectives do not necessarily represent those of The Oakland Post.

Natalie Portman shimmers in Vance Joy’s new album is thrilling new film “Annihilation” everything you would expect

Jessica Leydet ever you go, you’ll be in the right Trevor Tyle Staff Intern place / You’ll never know the differ- Campus Editor ence it makes / When you let go, and ames Gabriel Keogh, better give up your chance / I’ll come find atalie Portman is no stranger to Jknown as Vance Joy, released his you one of these days.” I think this badass female characters. Wheth- second album, “Nation of Two,” on song is something you would expect Ner she’s fighting in a galaxy far, Friday, Feb. 23. The Australian in- to hear just before the part in the far away or stealing the heart of every- die folk singer is widely known for rom-com when the guy runs to the one’s favorite god of thunder, Portman is his song “Riptide,” which was first airport to stop the girl from leaving. a force to be reckoned with, a statement released as a track on his debut EP “Lay It On Me” is one of my favorite only reinforced by the performance she “God Loves You When You’re Danc- tracks on the album, because it wan- gives in her new film, “Annihilation.” ing” (2013) and is also featured on ders from the idea of heartbreak. It Directed by “Ex Machina” director Alex his first studio album “Dream Your is more upbeat and describes the Garland, “Annihilation” is loosely based Life Away” (2014). mystery and excitement of meet- on the Jeff VanderMeer novel of the same The new album has the same light ing someone new. The lyrics, “I’m name—though, thanks to Garland’s im- tonality and acoustic sound as his so gone / Anyone could see that I’m peccable storytelling, the film takes on a previous album, but the lyrics carry wasted / You cut through / And I just life of its own. a little more weight—and of course, wanna know what’s in your head,” Portman plays Lena, a cellular biologist with his track record, most of the narrate this feeling so well. I think it and former soldier whose husband, Kane songs are about relationships. is more realistic in terms of the way (Oscar Isaac), has suddenly returned af- “Alone with Me” is a love ballad it describes how falling in love oc- ter disappearing on a mysterious mission in which he describes being smit- curs—when you least expect it. she knows nothing about. Kane’s strange ten with someone. The song sweeps Overall, I would give this album 4 behavior prompts Lena’s failed attempt Photo Courtesy of IMDb you off of your feet with the lyrics, out of 5 stars. I think Vance Joy could to take him to the hospital, which results Natalie Portman returns to the screens as Lena. “I saw you smile / I knew you had have definitely tried to be more ver- in the couple’s abduction at the hands of theatrical release to the U.S. and China. spirit / Oh, won’t you let your colors satile in this new album. It sounds a government officials. But, it will be released internationally run / And isn’t it odd, the way we lot like his previous album because Lena is told that Kane is in critical con- via Netflix in March. try to tell ourselves we got limits / he is glued to his typical singer- dition after emerging the sole survivor of The film’s polarizing nature is com- You’re beautiful, but you just don’t songwriter sound that he has per- an expedition into the mysterious terri- parable to last year’s “mother!” in terms see it sometimes.” I think this sort fected down to a science. tory known as “the Shimmer,” a continu- of how it challenges audiences, particu- of lovey-dovey lyricism is expected The issue for me is that he has ously growing area of unknown inhabit- larly during the film’s climax, which par- when listening to his music, but become so comfortable with this ants that threatens to eventually absorb allels the chaotic ending of “mother!” in that isn’t to say he isn’t good at sound that he doesn’t stray from it. the entire world. Desperate for answers, an eerier, more tranquil fashion. “An- winding you up in the fairytales he He has such a warm voice that is Lena ventures into the Shimmer with a nihilation” also perfectly pays homage sings of. flexible enough to tap into a wider team of four other women to uncover to the first two “Alien” films—as well as The song, “One of These Days,” variety of tempos and rhythms. I’d what lives—and dies—in its depths. its more recent prequels, “Prometheus” describes two people that love each love to see him incorporate more of Among the many triumphs of “Annihi- and “Covenant”—through its Ripley- other but the timing is off. The cho- an subtle electric sound paired with lation” are the five magnificent actresses esque protagonist and a few distinctly rus describes the persistence one his raw vocals in the future. at its forefront. Portman is as fierce and familiar shots in the film. However, “An- feels waiting for the other, “The vulnerable as ever in her portrayal of nihilation” still feels completely fresh moment you stop looking / Wher- Rating: 4/5 stars Lena, though the performance is far from and new. surprising for an actress of her versatil- The rising suspense and terror of “An- ity and commitment. Her talents are nihilation” create a film rich in char- matched by the criminally underrated acter development and engaging plot- Jennifer Jason Leigh, who plays the expe- lines. Its deliberate pacing and slow dition’s no-nonsense leader, psychologist buildup result in a disturbingly satisfy- Dr. Ventress. Meanwhile, Tessa Thomp- ing conclusion, and believe me, it’s one son (“Thor: Ragnarok”), Tuva Novotny for the books. (“Eat Pray Love”) and Gina Rodriguez The fact that a film as bold as “Annihi- (“Jane the Virgin”) are equally compel- lation” can evoke such an indescribable ling in their supporting roles. The stellar sense of fear among its audiences is a performances showcased in the film are true testament to Garland’s storytelling further driven by the women’s undeni- abilities. Though the scares are few and able on-screen chemistry. far between, this film will leave audi- In all honesty, “Annihilation” probably ences in a cold sweat for its entire two- won’t be widely enjoyed by many audi- hour runtime. ence members. It exudes an intellectual With “Annihilation,” Garland has con- depth that meets the approval of critics, ceived what is perhaps one of the most but will be scoffed at by general audienc- refreshing and innovative science fic- es unwilling to give the film the thought tion films of our time. it demands and deserves. This is exactly Photo Courtesy of Billboard why Paramount opted to limit the film’s Rating: 5/5 stars “Nation of Two,” the second album of indie folk singer Vance Joy, made its debut on Feb.23 www.oaklandpostonline.com The Oakland Post // February 28, 2018 13 Perspectives The views expressed in Perspectives do not necessarily represent those of The Oakland Post. The controversial case of Israel’s capital

every year, and it just so happens of the holiest sites for Islam, Christi- Israel over Palestine, the U.S. should that this upcoming May will see an- anity and Judaism, was to be a criti- be working toward a two-state solu- other event added to the “catastro- cal point of discussion in upcoming tion. phe.” peace talks. Much of Palestine remains un- On Feb. 22, the Trump Adminis- As controversial as President der illegal occupation by Israel and tration formally announced that it’s Donald Trump’s move is, the U.S. by declaring Jerusalem the capital incredibly controversial embassy Congress did pass a resolution in of Israel, the U.S. has shown once in Jerusalem will hold its opening 1995 that legally required the U.S. to again that it does not support the ceremony on May 14, the day cel- recognize Jerusalem as the capital idea of peace and a two state solu- ebrated as Jerusalem’s Independ- of Israel, yet no former leader since tion in the region. It also shows that ence Day. This move comes after then has moved the embassy over the people of Palestine will contin- Vice President Mike Pence told the fears of backlash by the people of ue to face oppression and violence Israeli Parliament last month that Palestine. By moving on this resolu- as more of their land is taken from the embassy would not be moved to tion the U.S. was officially disquali- them and used to build homes and Jerusalem until 2019. fied as a mediator in peace talks be- neighborhoods for Israeli settlers. When the Trump Administration tween Israel and Palestine. While the argument of terrorism announced that the United States In the days following Trump’s an- can be made against Palestine, one John Bozick would be moving it’s embassy in nouncement there have been mul- can only wonder what else can be Israel from Tel-Aviv to Jerusalem, tiple demonstrations in Palestine, done for a generation that has grown Web Editor many instantly worried of the con- the Middle East and other countries up seeing airstrikes, tear gas and rom 1947 to about 1949, 750,000 sequences that could follow, and condemning the move. The United soldiers on a daily basis? By moving Palestinians fled or were how this move would impact peace Nations general assembly also voted the U.S. embassy to Jerusalem, the F forced from their homes to talks between Israel and Palestine. 128-9 to condemn the plan, much to U.S. has only given more reason for make way for the incoming coloni- Palestine claims the eastern part the U.S. and Israel’s objection. violence in both Israel and Pales- zation of Palestine into the state of of the city, which is currently under The plan to move the U.S. embas- tine. Serious peace talks should be Israel. To many Palestinians, this occupation by Israel, as the site of sy is a mistake that could severely done before any side lays claim to event is known as the “catastrophe” its capital under a future Palestinian impede the idea of peace in the re- a city as historically and culturally and is commemorated on May 15 of state. The city, which houses some gion. Instead of blindly supporting significant as Jerusalem. Remembering Black History and the Peanut Man George Carver overcame adversity despite facing continuous rejection on account of his race

Isaac Martin flowers off some of my pets while removing them ness endeavors, giving him the resources he Political Contributor from the ground, and strange to say all sorts of needed. vegetation succeeded to thrive under my touch “It is not the style of clothes one wears, neither until... plants from all over the county would be A college man the kind of automobile one drives, nor the amount brought to me for treatment.” At 28 years old, the wandering phase of of money one has in the bank that counts. It is ser- George’s life drew to a close as he enrolled at vice that measures success.” - George Washington A thirst for knowledge Simpson College to study music and art. At first, Carver Denied entrance at the local school on ac- he barely scraped by at Simpson. count of his skin color and at 11 years old, George “For quite one month,” Carver wrote, “I lived eorge Carver was a distinguished scholar and moved out of the Carver’s home to go to a school on prayer, beef suet and cornmeal, and quite of- Ghumble teacher, awarded multiple doctor- for black children eight miles away. He had an ten being without the suet and meal.” ates, a post in the U.S. government and elected appetite for knowledge and within a year he had Through dint of hard work, frugality and the a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts in London. learned everything there was to learn at that kindness of the community toward him, George He is primarily known for his tremendous work school. The next 14 years were a time of roaming eventually excelled at Simpson as a pianist and with the peanut, so the story of Carver’s life be- for George as he attended five different schools a painter — one of his artworks was displayed in fore fame is recounted less often. and made a living on his own. the World’s Fair of 1894. However, George was Though young, George worked extremely hard more inclined to botany and thus transferred to A love for nature and saved his money for schooling. This time what is now known as Iowa State University. Born near the end of the Civil War and a slave to was marked by sorrow and joy for Carver. In this There, he quickly gained renown for his re- Moses and Susan Carver, George was orphaned at time, “Sunshine and shadow were profusely in- search and upon graduation in 1894 was prompt- an early age. The Carvers adopted George and his termingled such as naturally befall a defenseless ly hired as a faculty member where he oversaw brother Jim and raised them as their own. George orphan by those who wish to prey upon them,” systematic botany and all work conducted in the was homeschooled by Mrs. Carver and learned to he recalled. school’s greenhouses. After completing his Mas- do the chores of the household. When his chores He witnessed a lynching of a black man, suf- ter’s in Agriculture, the first African American to were completed, George would spend hours in fered sabotage by white classmates and was de- do so at Iowa State, George began his work at the nature studying plants and animals. nied admission to a college on account of his Tuskegee Institute. “Many are the tears I have shed,” Carver re- skin. However, Carver received kindness from There he received neither wealth nor prestige, membered. “Because I would break the roots or many who supported the broke student’s busi- but simply the opportunity to serve.

14 February 28, 2018 // The Oakland Post www.oaklandpostonline.com Puzzles

Across 55. Live-in nanny briefly 1. One calling the shots? 56. Like rams and lambs 23. Glutton 4. Teeming, as a beehive 58. Gloomy 24. Reagan’s fiancée, once 10. Veggie enhancers 60. Be an optimistic 25. Phys ed 14. High dudgeon borrower 26. One place to find turtles 15. London payment 63. Subj. with skeletons in 28. Gretzky forerunner 16. Pelvic bones the closet 29. ‘’The Facts of Life’’ 17. Game resembling squash 64. Second man on the actress Charlotte 19. Heap moon 33. Swear words? 20. Capital on the Han River 65. Ben’s ‘’Paycheck’’ co-star 34. Smoldering bit 21. Weevil, e.g. 66. Azerbaijan capital 36. Islamic caravan center of 23. Throw 67. Central African menace Africa 24. Winner of five AL 68. Retired speedster 37. Out of sorts batting titles 38. Trip segment 27. Public speaker’s skill Down 39. Poke 30. Approve 1. Split 40. UN advocate for workers 31. Help for a bad hair day, 2. Deletion 41. Sadat’s successor perhaps 3. Type of government 43. Really evil 32. Rope fiber 4. U.S. rights defender 44. Blood-curdling sounds 35. ___ mater 5. ‘’The Giving Tree’’ author 45. Miniature 36. Health club staple Silverstein 47. Dagwood indulgence 39. Woodstock guitarist 6. Intricate network 48. 1994 Nobelist Hendrix 7. Gulf branching from the 50. Transportation option 42. Upstanding Red Sea 52. Prevents publication of 43. VP who became 8. Laid down the law 53. Abrade president 9. Scuffles 56. Soul singer Redding 46. Successful coed 10. Traitorous 57. Meteorology tool 49. ‘’Assumption of the 11. Prohibited 58. Wee bit Virgin’’ artist 12. Humble dessert? 59. Santa ___ wind 51. Host of TV’s longest- 13. Detected 61. Knack running game show 18. Lamebrain 62. Trumpeter Adderley 54. Ethereal 22. ‘’We’ll tell you later,’’

NOVICE TOUGH

INTERMEDIATE

www.oaklandpostonline.com The Oakland Post // February 28, 2018 15 Sports Oakland defeats Milwaukee on senior night

Michael Pearce With seven minutes to go, Mil- game was back and forth with Staff Reporter waukee had connected on five 3-pointers being exchanged be- of its 12 three point attempts, tween both teams. With three eniors Kendrick Nunn, leading 25-21. minutes and 20 seconds remain- Nick Daniels, Jalen Hayes Oakland was unable to gain ing, Milwaukee held a 68-63 lead Sand Martez Walker were ground before the half ended and had possession of the ball. honored before Oakland took and trailed 36-31 at halftime. Oakland came up with a stop, the floor against Milwaukee on Nunn was the main source of and Nunn buried a 3-pointer to Saturday, Feb. 24. The four were offense for the Golden Griz- cut the lead to two points. honored with video tributes, zlies, scoring 17 points on five “Jalen and Kendrick have flowers and pictures with their of 10, shots. come up big every game,” Kampe families before the game. After two and a half minutes, said. “They’re the two main scor- “Senior night is always Milwaukee had stretched the ers. If we want to win, they have emotional — especially with lead to eight points with back to to make shots. They understand this group,” Head Coach Greg back 3-pointers. The deficit was that, they have to be good at that.” Brendan Triola / The Oakland Post Kampe said. “Jalen and Nick at four when Oakland took con- With just under two minutes Nick Daniels gives out autographs and high-fives after an Oakland victory. have been here five years. For trol of the game and shifted mo- remaining in the half, Dan- ping Milwaukee’s final effort. to win on senior night,” Dan- them to get that win and the mentum. Freshman Chris Gil- iels had a costly turnover on a “It meant a lot to finish,” iels said. “We always want to attention they deserve, it was bert hit a corner 3-pointer, and wild pass, which put Milwau- Daniels said. “As a senior I can’t go out with a win for ourselves. really heartwarming.” Nunn followed with a steal and kee up 68-66. A defensive stop make those mistakes down the Especially leading up to the The game was back and forth dunk to put the Golden Grizzlies and then an assisted 3-pointer stretch. I have to keep learning tournament as well, it was very the entire way, but Milwaukee up by one. from Daniels to Nunn gave and keep growing. Next week is important to win.” held the advantage early on. Af- “I think Chris making the Oakland the lead, 69-68 with a big week for us.” The Golden Grizzlies face off ter five minutes, the Panthers led three was huge,” Kampe said. only 56 seconds remaining in Directly after the win the against the Indiana University- 10-9, capitalizing off five Oak- “The only time he played was the game. team was only focused on en- Purdue University Indianapo- land turnovers. during a blowout, him going The crowd erupted, and Oak- joying senior night, which con- lis (IUPUI) Jaguars in the first The Golden Grizzlies were im- and making that shot was spe- land was able to hold onto that cluded with fans taking photos round of the Horizon League plementing zone defense early cial. Our bench and fans came lead. The final score read 72-70 and receiving autographs from tournament at Little Caesars on, which led to repeated open alive, the arena exploded.” as Nunn intercepted a last sec- all of the players. Arena in Detroit on Sunday, 3-pointers from the Panthers. After the lead change, the ond heave down court, stop- “It was very important for us March 4 at 7:30 p.m.

16 February 28, 2018 // The Oakland Post www.oaklandpostonline.com Sports Injury causes Walker to miss out on season Dakota Brecht “I feel awful for Martez… it sucks it has Staff Reporter to end like this for him… one of my favorite guys of all time,” voice of the Golden Griz- ednesday Feb. 14, News broke that zlies, Neal Ruhl said. WOakland University guard, Martez Born and raised in Detroit, Walker went Walker had suffered a broken left foot and to Pershing High School on Detroit’s north will miss the rest of the season. Multiple side. After high school, Walker went to sources confirmed on Twitter, saying Walk- Texas University before deciding to come er’s absence is a heartbreaking loss for the home and transferring to Oakland Univer- Golden Grizzlies. sity. Walker was averaging 15.4 points a game “I am heartbroken for Martez,” Head The Oakland Post Archives and nearly 38 minutes a contest. Walker Coach Greg Kampe said. “He was having Men’s and women’s basketball teams will be playing at the Little Caesars Arena. had a huge impact on and off the floor and an MVP-type season and all he wanted to has been known as a team leader since his do was win and go to the NCAA Tourna- arrival in 2015. In the 2016-17 campaign, ment. Now he has lost that chance.” Walker led Oakland in scoring with 17.8 As a fifth year senior, this is the final sea- points per game, which ranked fourth in son for Walker and his last game as a Gold- Horizon League the Horizon League. Known for not only en Grizzly was an 87-78 win over rival De- his offense, he is also known as a fantas- troit Mercy University. Walker went down tic defender and usually matches up with halfway through the second half with the Tournament preview the opposing team’s best offensive player injury, but returned with roughly three every game. minutes to go in the contest. Michael Pearce Men’s basketball Walker has been a fan favorite at Oak- With Oakland sitting at 16-10 overall and The men are off until Sunday, Staff Reporter land during his tenure and many people five games to play, the loss of Walker will March 4 for their game, which is showed him love and support on social greatly affect their chances of capturing the scheduled against the IUPUI Jaguars media after the news broke. elusive Horizon League Championship. he brackets are set, and the at 7:30 p.m. The Jaguars finished teams are preparing. Horizon with an 8-10 record in conference T League regular season play end- play, as well as an 11-18 overall re- ed for both the men and women on cord. Sunday, Feb. 25, which means the Mo- In both matchups between the tor City Madness tournament bracket teams, the home team won, so a The Sporting Blitz is finalized, and the seeding is com- neutral site should provide a close plete. game. Oakland was without start- Swim and Dive: The Oakland Golden Schmidt finished the tournament tied ers in each matchup as well, missing Grizzlies claimed the Horizon League for ninth with a score of 223 (+7). Women’s basketball sophomore Isaiah Brock in the first titles once again. This marks the men’s Alexis Jones finished the tour- The Oakland University women will matchup and senior Martez Walker 40 straight year, and the women’s 24 nament with 228 (+12), Veronica kick off all tournament play, as they in the second. straight year. The men and women’s Haque with 230 (+14) and Maddelyn face off against the University of Illi- “The first game we played, Isaiah team combined for six first place fin- Zack 231 (+15). nois at Chicago (UIC) flames on Fri- didn’t play, we had a comfy win,” day, March 2 at noon. UIC finished ishes on the fourth and final day of the Head Coach Greg Kampe said. “The tournament. Track and Field: The women’s track last in the Horizon League, with a 1-16 second game they beat us with Isai- conference record. The Golden Griz- Katie Colwell, Amber Lefler, Arynn team finished in second place at the ah but no Martez. We’re going to dis- de Leeuw and Holly Morren swam the Horizon League Indoor Champion- zlies defeated the Flames both times sect it and figure it out.” this season, winning the first matchup 400-yard freestyle in 3:20.38 for a first ships on Feb. 25, and the Men’s team If the men beat IUPUI the Golden place finish , a new school record and finished in third. by four points and the second by 17. Grizzlies will face off against either If the Golden Grizzlies beat UIC, the a new league championship record. Maggie Schneider was named Northern Kentucky, Cleveland State Oakland swimmers and divers also Women’s Freshman of the Year, Run- women face off against the number or Youngstown State. The most likely two seed in the tournament, the Indi- received many specialty awards. ning. Zach Stadnika was named matchup is the Northern Kentucky Women Men’s Championship Outstanding Per- ana University- Purdue University In- Norse, who won the Horizon League dianapolis (IUPUI) Jaguars. IUPUI fin- Freshman of the Year: Sydney former, Fielding. outright. The Golden Grizzlies did McDowell Chanel Gardner set a school re- ished with a 13-5 conference record, beat the Norse on their home court, and beat Oakland by 16 and 18 points Swimmer of the Meet: Grace cord in the 400m with a time of 56.20. 83-70 in January, but that was with Shinske The men’s 4x400 relay team Corey in each game. a Walker. Men Goodloe, Tyler Brenner, Andrew If the women were to advance fur- All games can be viewed on ESPN3, Freshman of the Year: Rudy Aguilar Storm and Jimmie Williams finished ther, the matchups would be deter- and tickets are on sale for student Swimmer of the Meet: Paul Huch with a school record time of 3:15.85 mined by who wins games on the other section members until Thursday, Diver of the Meet: Joe Smith and placing first. Other podium finish- side of the bracket. If that is the case, March 1 at 10 a.m. on the Horizon Diving Coach of the Year: Larry ers can be found on the Golden Griz- the Golden Grizzlies would likely be League’s website. All games will take zlies Athletics website. looking at a matchup with number 22 place at Little Caesars Arena in De- Albright in the country, the Green Bay Phoenix, troit, and general admission tickets as the Phoenix’s are the number one will be available up until game time Women’s Golf: The Golden Grizzlies Compiled by Skylar Tolfree seed in the tournament and one of the each day of each game. finished in sixth place in Phoenix, AR best defenses in the country. with a final score of 911 (+47). Fiona Sports Editor

www.oaklandpostonline.com The Oakland Post // February 28, 2018 17 Sports

Now Accepting Applications and Nominations for:

Student Liaison to the Oakland University Board of Trustees

The role of the Student Liaison to the Board of Trustees (BOT) is to serve as a non-voting resource on all student issues at public meetings of the BOT.

Photo Courtesy of the Swimming Club The swimming club was founded by Amber Gier as a way to enjoy the sport without any competitions. General Information • Term of Service - July 1, 2018 through June 30, 2019 or 2020 Club Sports spotlight: Swimming club • Must have at least a 2.5 GPA • Must have earned 56 undergraduate or 18 graduate credit hours Katie LaDuke invited to around three meets each se- (minimum of 28 or 9 earned at OU, respectively) Copy Editor mester and attends at least one. Clubs • Must not hold any other major elected campus office from a variety of Michigan schools, n any given night, the Olympic- including Grand Valley State Univer- size pool on the lower level of sity, Central Michigan University and Apply online at: Othe Oakland University Rec Well Western Michigan University, usually is populated with people of all skill lev- attend. oakland.edu/bot/student-liaisons els, including kids just beginning to Meets are set up like normal compe- learn. But the far right lanes are used by titions with meter races and relays, but Applications are due by March 31, 2018 Oakland’s swim club on Monday nights. it depends on the host school. Schools The two-year-old club was founded can add unique races such as co-ed re- For questions, please contact the Division of Student Affairs & Diversity by its current president Amber Gier as lays or one specific to the school. 120 Vandenberg Hall | 248-370-4200 | [email protected] a way to continue the sport without the At one meet, there was a “Laker Re- NCAA Division I competition. How- lay.” Four members from a team would ever, many members are familiar with swim 25 meters while wearing a t-shirt. competition since they swam before Members would have to climb out of college. the pool and put the t-shirt on the next “I like how the club is really laid back, person. and it’s not so competitive or hard- The meets are also not as competitive core like high school was,” member Tia as regular competitions. The focus is Falzarano said. “The college club is a more personal bests. Teams are scored social experience but also staying ac- with points, but no trophies or awards tive.” are given. Each team’s total points can The club holds around 20 to 25 mem- range based on the amount of mem- bers each semester but is still accepting bers. new members. There is no official -try “Your teammates are there to sup- out process, but it is recommended that port you and nobody is pressuring you,” interested members are familiar with Falzarano said. “You do it for your per- the four strokes: freestyle, breast, back sonal goals.” and butterfly. This is not required as the Members are just as active out of the club can work with members that have pool as well. There are several fundrais- little swimming experience. ers a year and members participate “We welcome anybody in our prac- in community involvement. The club tices,” Gier said. “If they can only do sponsored a table for the Ruth Ellis one stroke, then we help them with the Center at OU Make a Difference Day. other strokes.” Team bonding is also an important Practices are typically held on Mon- aspect for the swimmers. The club usu- days and Tuesdays. Mondays are spent ally goes to Oakland club hockey games in the pool working on strokes and dis- and out for dinner as a group. tance. Members are on the track run- “[The club] is motivation to keep me ning on Tuesdays. Both days are flex- going,” Gier said. “Everyone is just so ible with members working at their own friendly, and it doesn’t matter about pace. your ability. I love how the team bonds “We incorporate running into our prac- by seeing everybody who you wouldn’t tices because it helps build up endur- expect to be friends bonding together ance in different muscles you’re using and connecting.” in the pool,” Gier said. The club is scheduled to have its first These practices help get members home meet of the semester on Satur- ready for meets. Typically, the club is day, March 24 at the Rec Well pool.

18 February 28, 2018 // The Oakland Post www.oaklandpostonline.com Satire The views expressed in Satire do not necessarily represent those of The Oakland Post. An Open Letter on #Freethespringbreak

Stephen Armica I wanted to go see a friend at Mich- This issue isn’t about specifics. It’s it on Twitter, because I’m not grossly Satirist igan State University. They had mid- about the problem at hand. And the overestimating the reach of this ar- terms. When I made the hour-and- problem is that like many students, I ticle and you’re going to be seeing a ’m not one to complain, but this a-half drive, they had time to tell me couldn’t afford to go to Panama City, lot of that. year’s “winter break” (spring how their day was going (bad) before Fla. for my spring break. Instead I Ibreak) sucked. It rained so much, they had to go finish a paper. was stuck sitting on my couch yelling I had to share my cigarettes with I wanted to get drunk with some at my phone screen every time some- the raccoons taking shelter on my buddies at the University of Michi- one posted something about being porch. It was cold enough that an gan. But guess what. They’re so somewhere warm and not here. Alaskan tourist complained about it. stressed that I spent half my time And do you know what the worst But mostly, it was the worst time for treating someone for anxiety and de- part was? I actually found a lot about spring break. pression. Also, their spring break is a myself. I realized that the greatest There’s a point I’m trying to make week after ours. things in life don’t involve going to here. And no, it’s not that I have the Spring break marks an elite insti- expensive places but instead involve resources to publish my complaints. tution from its more pedestrian com- making the most of every waking It’s that the students deserve to know patriots. I read it on the US News & moment in order to live the life we whose stupid idea it was to have World Report “Best Colleges List” choose. spring break at such a dumb time. Criteria. I shouldn’t have to think about We just want accountability. As a If the students have a more op- stuff like that, Oakland University public institution, the students want portune time for spring break, their administration. I should be drunk on to know about the decisions being GPAs go up. When spring break is a beach somewhere. It’s your job to made on our behalf. And probably closer to the other colleges, then the fix this. the most important decision is when culture of the campus becomes more If it helps any, I know Bill Gates. I we don’t have to put a single unit of engaging. And if students feel more personally follow him on twitter and effort into classwork. engaged, they’re more likely to do- I’m sure he will gladly donate big for “Why is this an issue?” asks my nate to the institution that they felt this cause. Photo illustration by Erin O’Neill / The Oakland Post friends at the college administration. was the greatest time of their lives. But better yet, we’ll start a move- Sunshine. warm weather, and alcohol were Well, I’ll tell you. What’s that? Cite my sources? No. ment, #Freethespringbreak. Look for not present at this year’s “spring break.”

www.oaklandpostonline.com The Oakland Post // February 28, 2018 19 ADVERTISEMENT

20 February 28, 2018 // The Oakland Post www.oaklandpostonline.com