■special orientation edition

>[email protected] August 2009 The Voice of African-American Womanhood

Core Values

Academic Success Sisterhood Ethical/Moral Leadership Development Respect Balance Social Justice Diversity

Living the Spelman - Office of Housing

PHOTO BY: WHITNEY SKIPPINGS-DUPREE Clockwise from the left; The Core Values, posted In front of every residential hall; Students unload their cars at Howard Herrald Hall; SSGA members provice popcorn and cotton candy for the incoming students and their families inside the spc Five Important People The Most Major Welcome to the for Success at Spelman Decision of Your Life West End Who are the ‘bigplayers’ on the Spelman Many students don’t have a major in mind. It Spelman College’s campus College campus? The Spotlight tells you is nothing to be ashamed of— look inside for is placed in an interesting who they are, what they can do for you, and uncommonly chosen programs, and whether location. Learn more inside where you will find them. they may be of interest to you. about Spelman’s home. & ...becauseyou can’t change the world if there’s nothing left of it ed¡tor¡al2spotl¡ght

Letter from the Editor

Have you noticed that over these past couple of months everyone has been trying to impart upon you words of wisdom to help guide you through your journey at Spelman College?

While some of this advice may be redundant, and in some cases, irrelevant, it is wise to listen and absorb these bits of information. The Spelman Spotlight staff knows the value of good advice, espe­ cially advice coming from your Spelman sisters - the women who were in the same position as you only one-to-three years ago! In this special edition, tailored especially for you, the Spotlight staff complied some insightful information that we believe will assist you as you transition into Spelman College and the Atlanta area.

Some of the topics include: Selecting a major, Atlanta Hotspots, living with your roommate and the services offered in MacVicar Health Center. We hope these articles prove to be useful and relevant to

Rebecca Clayton, Editor-in-Chief of the Spelman Spotlight your Spelman experience.

If you are interested in sharing your views and writing about issues that intrigue and interest the Spelman and local Atlanta area community, we urge you to join the Spelman Spotlight We will be hosting an interest meeting for first-year students on Tuesday, August 25, 2009 from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Be sure to check for updates on posted flyers throughout campus, which will list the confirmed location.

My advice: Partake in all activities related to first-year students - no matter how “grown” or cool you may be. Keep in mind that once this year is over, you will never have another opportunity to relive those truly memorable first-year experiences.

I wish you all the best success in striving to maintain a balance between work and play, following the rules, and making your own.

Rebecca Clayton Editor-in-Chief

Please send news tips and corrections to The Spelman Spotlight [email protected] Featured Writers For advertising, contact Executive Staff , Briana Haymon, Staff Writer [email protected] Rebecca Clayton, Editor-in-Chief Briyyah McClain, Staff Writer MiCo&Wc D. Sivicrson, Managing Editor Dénia Moreland, Staff Writer Whitney Skippings Dupree, Layout id Design Editor Lèâ Scruggs, Staff' Writer the Spelman Spotlight Brittney Daigle-Leonard, Chief Copy Editor Kiki Stenson, Staff Writer 350 Spelman LN SW Shannon Palmore, 'The Forum’ Editor Kelly Harper, Contributing Writer Campus Box #1234 Yasmine-imani McMorrin, Business Manager Michelle S. Jenkins, Contributing Writer Atlanta, GA 30314 1 E.K. Lofton, Contributing Writer Ms. Ouleye Ndoye, Advisor

Interested in joining the staff? We are recruiting reporters, editors, page designers, advertising representatives and distribution team members. Applications are available August 25, 2009. All majors are welcome! ------news3spotlight------Secretary for Enrollment Management Welcomes the Class of 2013 Dear New Spelman Sister, your struggles, triumphs, faults, and Our Institution's foundation is built nitude of greatness that exudes from your unrelenting ability to prevail has upon the belief that there is no failure this collective unit of dynamic women. Congratulations on your acceptance prepared you for a time such as this! when the heart is encouraged to forge Spelman’s legacy stems from the amaz­ into Spelman College. It is with great The world is in dire need of leaders; through the darkness and create a path ing women who have come before you honor and privilege that we welcome leaders who are distinctively cultivated of light for all those whose lives will determined to impact the world. I you to our beloved Institution. We to hear its sincere and bitter cry. In this be impacted by your achievements. All encourage each of you to reach out to applaud your decision to be numbered moment, realize that Spelman College that you have in you, your hopes, your these Spelman Alumna for the wealth amongst some of the world’s most pro­ will be the place that will help prepare fears, your struggles and your dreams of knowledge, support and opportunity found emerging leaders. As you have you and instill the values necessary not are fundamental to your development; they can and will provide to you. journeyed through your life of prepa­ only to answer the call, but to answer as you commit yourself to defy nega­ Welcome to Spelman College, ration and growth, all of your efforts the call with purpose, admirable char­ tive expectations and strive to attain welcome to the place that has waited have led you to this season of innova­ acter and the principles needed to fill the highest standards of excellence. As for your arrival with great hope and tive opportunity. It is in this place, this the void. Be prepared to succeed, but a Spelman woman, each of you has per­ expectation for all the greatness that center of academic excellence that is be realistic in your expectations. Un­ sonally accepted the choice to change you will soon achieve. now charged with the honor of foster­ derstand that you will face many new the world. It is our hope that you will On behalf of the 2009-2010 Spelman ing and developing your personal and challenges and obstacles. Yet, bear in use your gifts and talents, as well as College Student Government Associa­ scholastic success. mind that this institution will provide your academic integrity to better the tion (SSGA), we welcome you and are This Institution, “built for you”, you with the encouragement and sup­ legacy of this institution, your commu­ excited for the inspiring journey that welcomes each and every one of port you will need to push through any nity, and the world. lies before you. your individual and unique gifts. We adversity and help you to reach your We welcome you now with the encourage you to step outside of who fullest potential. hope that you will take advantage of Sincerely, you were and step towards who you We ask that you prepare you every opportunity available to you. Gaybrielle LeAnn Gant are now becoming. Now that you have hearts and minds for this new jour­ We challenge you to accept no limits 2009-2010 SSGA Secretaryfor arrived you must realize that all of ney that you will soon embark upon. and to never under estimate the mag- Enrollment Management Five Important People for Success at Spelman Individuals to Know For Overall Success on Campus

Kiki Stenson ly Daniel Tatum shared with the Spelman community that almost 50 percent of Spelman students are eli­ Staff Writer The Office of Disability Services is located in MacVicar Health Center in Wellness Services De­ gible to receive a Pell Grant - however, many of these partment located on the first floor. The office offers students also need additional financial assistance in To many first-year students, much of Spelman services to students with physical or mental impair­ the form of scholarships. Ms. McQuay supervises College is unfamiliar, and even intimidating. The ments that substantially affects one or more of their scholarship distribution and assist students in solicit­ Spelman Spotlight has provided a list of some of daily life activities. Ms. McDonald evaluates stu­ ing scholarships that are both need and merit based. the most beneficial and important people for new dents’ disability claims and offers services to accom­ Students with unmet financial need or students wish­ students to know in order to achieve professional, modate student’s specific requests. ing to obtain scholarships should visit Ms. McQuay academic, financial, and overall success. in Rockefeller Hall, Room 107. Students can also visit Dr. Geneva Baxter, Associate Dean of the, Kara Gardner one of Spelman’s newest Scholar­ Toni Ireland, Assistant Director of Career Plan­ Undergraduate Studies ship Coordinators. ning and Development 404-270-5218, [email protected] 404-270-5270, [email protected] Staci Bruce, Community Service Coordinator As an Associate Dean in the Office of Undergraduate 404-270- 5315, [email protected] The Office of CPD is located in the Milligan Build­ Studies, Dean Baxter is responsible for monitoring ing, Room 2306. The office is responsible for offering the overall progress of first-year students. She also To pass the first-year experience and Sophomore online career research centers, mock interviews, on and oversees the advising program for first-year students Assembly, students must perform at least six hours off campus recruiting, and resume critiques. Ms. Ire­ and coordinates a required course, “First-Year Expe­ of community service per semester. The Bonner Of­ land specifically assist in resume building and instruct­ rience.” Dean Baxter’s office is located in Rockefeller fice, responsible for the Bonner Scholars Program, ing students on how to access and utilize Spelman’s Hall. oversees and coordinates all campus-wide community Spelman’s online recruiting sites such as eRecruiting. service projects and individual community service ac­ Rosa McQuay, Scholarship Coordinator, Financial tivities. The Bonner Office holds an Annual Commu­ Merrine McDonald, Coordinator The Office of Aid Office nity Service Fair and verifies all student’s community Disability Services 404-260-5699, [email protected] service hours. The office is located in Upper Manley 404-270-5289, [email protected] In a “State of the Campus Address” President Bever­ Student Center.

SPOTLIGHT INTEREST MEETING. On Aug. 23, 2009 the Spelman Spotlight will hold a interest meeting for first-year students from 10:30 a.m,- 1 1:30 a.m. Be sure to cheek for updates and posted flyers throughout orientation regarding the confirmed location and any last-minute changes for this event. the4forum

"... I’d say to take the traditions seriously because even though you may not see the meaning now, the traditions will mean If I CouldTalk so much more as you journey through and even beyond Spelman. Especially, when kyou meet Spelman alumnae who shared To My First-Year Self the same experiences with you - it’s an instant bond!" Hindsight is 20/20. We decided to ask upperclass Tashinda Glover Class of 2004 students and alumnae for someof the things they wish they had known when they were finishing their first year at Spelman College.

"... I would say that life is "... I’d say that while you’re'“ extraordinary and being open 'away from home and it is impor­ I'd tell her to make all of to change does not make you a , tant to have fun, remember to her decisions with her future weak person, but rather a focus on your academics. Enjoy in mind, because once your person who is open to a new and treasure the relationships undergraduate experience is world of capabilities.'1 you build because they will last over, you can't go back and Brittany Fennell 'd say to not rush a lifetime.” change what's in the past.” Class of 2012 through school and take .Sheryl Webber Washington Morgan Hall as much away from the Class of 1977 Class of 2009 experience as you can.” Charis Johnson Class of 1979

... I would tell her to enjoy , and cherisEh these four m.. I would tell her to figure* would tell her that work­ years; they go so quickly.” out quickly if you study best ing off campus freshman year is at night or early in the morn­ Yasmine-imani McMorrin ambitious and admirable, but the ing and then figure out your Class of 2010 little bit of money you earn will favorite studying spot on and never make up for the opportuni­ off campus. Once you have ties you’ll lose to make life-long your studying habits down, it is friends. Join clubs and activities ^easier to establish an awesome and excel in your classes. If you social life." Jnave to work then try work study!" Jamila McGill Racheal Hawthorne Class of 2010 Class of 2009

program was recognized as the first Philosophy and Religious Studies undergraduate women’s studies major If you love reading, writing, and delv­ Major Decisions at a historically Black institution. ing into new' concepts of thought and It has since gained much acclaim for religious theory, then the philosophy and The road to finding the right department being groundbreaking in its thought, religious studies major might be for you, diversity, and changing the social pace says Ashley Brooke Brown ferent places and different backgrounds.” in the Spelman community. Dr. Gertrude James Gonzalez de Allen, Staff Writer Kerrione Phillips, a senior sociology major, says that many students don't The department prides itself on hav­ a professor of philosophy at Spelman. Selecting a major is simple for some realize that her department is a close-knit ing played a major role in establishing a Gonzalez de Allen says the majors who have been planning their course of community. distinctive interdisciplinary comparative encourage critical thinking skills and study since high school, but for others, “We all know each other and we help women's studies major and minor that al­ analytical inclination through use of the selection process can be daunting. each other out,” says Phillips, who says lows students to analyze Black women’s philosophical and religious coursework. According to Spelman’s 2008-09 “New she chose sociology because she's inter­ experiences from a cross-cultural per­ “People don’t know that you can do a First Time Admitted Class Profile,” there ested in the ways in which society shapes spective. lot with philosophy and religious stud­ are five popular majors among entering people. April Caddell came to Spelman with the ies,” Gonzalez de Allen says. “Many students: biology, psychology, political The sociology and anthropology major intentions of joining the international students go into law school, journalism, science, economics, and English. These at Spelman offers courses that deal with studies department but later decided to medical school, and some have become popular courses are commonly pursued societal analysis and social theory. It major in comparative women’s studies. Fulbright Scholars.” for numerous reasons, but there’s more offers concentrations in women’s issues, The junior says she selected this major While the Philosophy major doesn’t variety available in the majors that are theory and methods, anthropology, pre­ because it allowed her to tailor her have any formal concentrations, Gon­ less explored by Spelman students. law and criminology, urban studies, and courses to her interests and because the zalez de Allen says the religious studies Sociology and Anthropology contemporary issues and social policy. material she is learning is engaging, new major requires that students specialize in The sociology and anthropology and different than what she has previ­ two of three religious groups. program focuses on the study of people Comparative Women ’s Studies ously encountered in school. These three majors are just a few and why they are the way they are. The The comparative women’s studies “The women’s studies major is very majors that are available outside of the department boasts on its official Web site major is another academic program that diverse and offers the opportunity to take five most popular academic programs. that, “Sociology and Anthropology epito­ allows students to zero in specifically on a variety of different classes outside of Feel free to explore all that’s available but mize Spelman: We are all from very dif­ Black women’s issues. When the col­ the major courses,” Caddell says. don’t take too long. lege approved the program in 1996, the theóforum —Blame it on the Alcohol— Got MacVicar? Kelly Harper Contributing Writer Spelmans health services offers care to students It’s 1 1 p.m. on a Friday night and all of your friends are getting ready to head out to the first party of the Dalton says many students request assistance Kelly Harper weekend. Classes are over and students are buzzing Contributing J! fiter with exploring various birth control options when around the dorm, applying the last touches of their they come to the Women’s Health Clinic, which is makeup and giving themselves a quick once-over in the As it is often stressed in the media, prevention located on the second floor. There, students can re­ mirror before everyone races out the door. is the key to attacking everything from colds and ceive pap smears, breast exams, pregnancy testing, When you reach the party, the pulsating beat of the sexually transmitted diseases to cancer. It is always and contraceptive supplies. music consumes you and soon you find yourself moving better to get a health “Many students are afraid of to the music. Many of your peers are holding red cups care professional’s certain changes and issues with filled with some mix of alcohol and the effects of the assessment, which usu­ their body, but they should drinks are evident throughout the room. ally leads to a quicker know that our doors are open Many students have heard Academy Award-winning and less painful recov­ for them and the staff is ready singer and actor Jamie Foxx’s summer hit, "Blame It,” ery for health ailments. to help,” Dalton says. which alludes to the things that occurs to a young wom­ Spelman’s MacVicar When the temperature drops an as she sips on various drinks at a party. Health & Wellness and students start swapping Alcohol usage is prevalent on college campuses na­ Center offers a pleth­ their jeweled sandals for their tionwide, but before you reach for that double shot of ora of resources de­ Ugg boots, students can take Grey Goose, consider the broad spectrum of alcohol and signed to help students advantage various health its consequences and side effects. with various health screenings including free flu According to the Center for Disease Control, adults concerns. This cute, shots. representing the 18 to 20-year-old age group binge cozy brick building is MacVicar also offers individ­ drink the most out of any other group. Binge drink­ ing for a young woman is described as consuming more home to an array of ual counseling, group counsel­ than four drinks in two hours. Medical experts say this services designed for ing, and workshops. Students receive 20 counseling sessions is dangerous and can lead to alcohol poisoning and other young women. life-threatening injuries. "So often we find per school year and each ses­ There are ways to have sober fun—all you need is good that Spelman students sion lasts 50 minutes. If a stu­ dent requires more counseling, company, and great music to get ready for a night of fun have been here for and laughter, says sophomore Lauren Williams. their entire four years a therapist will decide how to Williams says that she doesn’t drink because she says and have never been further proceed with securing more sessions for the student. alcohol is not a necessary component in order to have a over here to the center. good time. Take advantage of the While there is often a nega­ “I believe that allowing yourself to become intoxicat­ wonderful resources tive stigma attached to therapy and counseling services in ed is potentially dangerous because you are ultimately that we have here PHOTO BY: WHITNEY SKIPPINGS-DUPREE putting yourself in a compromising situation. I do not at the center,” says MacVicar Hall, which houses Student Health Services. the Black community, mental judge others who drink because I know that for some Brenda Dalton, direc­ health advocates say that it is people, drinking is fun,” Williams says. important to speak with someone from the onset of tor of Student Health Services at MacVicar. From the off-campus house parties to undercover MacVicar has a same-day policy for making ap­ experiencing signs of depression. Symptoms may “pre-gaming” in someone’s dorm room, alcohol is always pointments, which means that students can usually include a combination of feelings that interfere with omnipresent on the party scene. a student’s ability to study, sleep, work, eat, and see a health care professional on the same day they However, it is your choice to drink responsibly. require medical attention. Students can stop by the enjoy activities. Spelman has a dry campus policy, which means that the sick hall clinic on the first floor from 8:30 a.m.- possession or the consumption of alcoholic beverages 11:30 a.m. during the weekday for “Sick Call” hours. In addition to mental health services, MacVicar offers nutrition in your room or on your person means that you can be For the remainder of the day, MacVicar operates on counseling by appointment only. A registered dietitian can assist fined, written-up, or even dismissed from living in the an appointment schedule. students with weight gain, weight loss, and special diets. residence halls. To be realistic, telling college students not to drink, or assuming that they never will, is naive and assuming. So if you do choose to drink, remember that moderation is Adjusting to on-campus living the key. Learn your limits so that you don’t end up binge drinking. Decisions that you make during times of fun Quick tips that will make dorm life more pleasurable can lead to unnecessary drama and consequences later.

Lea Scruggs mate. Think about it: You are Check Your Noise the dresser until it became an first-year experiences. Dorm spirit goes beyond having Staff Writer sharing a small space with a Reducing your noise tops the issue,” says sophomore Daryl stranger while trying to adjust list of dorm courtesies, espe­ Fortson. In order to correct stroll battles during “Hump After a whirlwind of un­ to college life, academics, and cially during quiet hours. Limit her mistake, Fortson says she Wednesday” on Morehouse’s packing suitcases and boxes, living away from home. To music and sound levels within eventually replaced the honey. campus. Try out for your and exchanging introductions ease the process, below you the confines of your room. If dorm’s stroll team. Even if to the new roommates and will find some tips to living your roommate is sleeping or Know residence officials & you can’t dance, learning the peers, dorm life in August with a roommate and enjoying studying, take your chatter, resolve issues before they moves is fun, and it makes for seems to be going smoothly. your dorm experience. dancing, and music somew'here escalate a great bonding experience. But two months later in else. If your relationship with Be active in meetings, dorm November, things begin to go Clean regularly your roommate worsens, councils, and party planning to downhill. You come home from After a few months of living Never assume, schedule a meeting with your gain leadership experience and a study session ready to relax together, roommates begin “What ’s yours is mine. ” resident assistant or resi­ to make connections. and indulge in leftovers, only to get comfortable and may You and your roommate may dential director who may act to find strangers in your bed. forget to be courteous. Clean­ be like sisters, but always ask as an impartial third party. Live it up. Then you head to the kitchen ing up after yourself is vital before borrowing clothes, food, Don’t complain to your friends Sure, living in a dorm has only to find your food missing. because the small space you and other items. If you use and neighbors. They are not drawbacks—little-to-no Now livid, you think, “How am will share is likely to become something, be sure to apolo­ always unbiased and they can privacy, crowded bathrooms, I ever going to get through more unkempt than you antici­ gize and offer a replacement. create more tension. and weird roommates. How­ this year?!” pated. Make sure your space is It is disrespectful to take some­ ever, most people find that the Scenarios like this, although livable. If you are expecting thing that doesn’t belong to Get involved rewards outweigh the frustra­ exaggerated, are not unusual guests, be sure to check with you. Many alumnae and upper­ tions. in residential halls at Spelman. your roommate beforehand— “I used my roommate’s classmen will tell you that One of the most difficult especially if your visitor is a honey in my tea almost ev­ chanting dorm songs and adjustments in college may be significant other. eryday. I assumed that it was throwing up hand signs was learning to live with a room­ okay to use because it was on one of their most memorable ------biz&tec hóspotligh Avoid Financial Woes When using credit cards and managing accounts, a little financial literacy goes a long way

Michelle A. Jenkins have coffee every morning, don’t eliminate the -Know the Language:------Contributing Writer luxury entirely, but cut back gradually. Re­ Credit Terms to Know member, a budget ought to be a personal goal, A major part of college is learning how to not a punishment. • Annual fee: The fee some issuers charge to manage a cred­ it card account. Most credit card accounts extend credit manage your finances. While many students Accidents will happen, and unexpected without charging an annual fee. adore musical artists who Haunt jewels and costs will arise. Fortunately, there are resourc­ cash, many of us ironically treat our own fiscal es that can provide some assistance with these • Annual Percentage Rate (APR): APR is an interest rate fallacies as a taboo topic. How often have you occurrences. Some helpful Web sites include: used to calculate how much in finance charges will accu­ sat down in the café and discussed your credit www.Mint.com and www.annualcreditreport. mulate if the balance isn’t paid in full by the bill’s due date. score? com. The first Web site is an interactive tool • Balance transfer: This term refers to the process of mov­ I’m sure it has been not been nearly as that allows users to create personalized bud­ ing an unpaid credit card debt from one issuer to another. many times as you have debated how much gets and track their spending patterns. The This is often done so the cardholder can move unpaid credit Jay- Z paid to put a ring on it. This goes to say, latter allows users to retrieve one free credit to a credit account with a lower interest rate. Card issuers although it’s unnecessary to shout your ac­ report per year. sometimes offer teaser rates to encourage balance trans­ count balances from the roof tops, it’s also not fers coming in and balance-transfer fees to discourage them In addition to these resources, President from going out, financial experts say. a bad idea to take advantage of the financial Barack Obama signed the “Credit Card Ac­ • Credit History: This historical account provides a profile resources available to you. countability, Responsibility, and Disclosure informing credit issuers if consumers pay bills on time and The time you spend in college is a great Act” (CARD Act) in May, which aims to make how much debt they carry. Credit card issuers check a con­ credit card usage a transparent and account­ time to start saving money. Many college sumer’s credit history when determining if wants to ex­ students enjoy the freedom to earn an income able process. Key components of Obama’s bill tend credit to that consumer. It also includes a consumer’s include bans on unfair rate increases and fee while also enjoying the absence of any large current credit score, which determines whether or not a financial responsibilities outside of tuition. traps, as well as a mandate that the language consumer can be expected to pay certain bills. Some of Spelman’s requirements for first-year used in contracts be plain enough for the aver­ • Credit limit: The maximum amount of credit available on students create avenues for savings. For ex­ age consumer to understand. a credit card. ample, not being able to bring a car to campus Using these tools and taking advantage of • Finance charge: The charge for using a credit card, com­ eliminates the need to spend money on gas and the President’s newly implemented bill will prised of interest costs and other fees. insurance. make establishing your savings plan a breeze. • Introductory rate: In effort to attract consumers, especial­ Knowledge, such as your account balance However, it’s up to you to stick with it. ly young consumers, credit card issuers often offer a low and credit score in addition to planning your Michelle Jenkins, a Spelman senior, lead a se­ introductory rate that switches to a higher variable or fixed spending will give you a better sense of what mester-long campaign last fall to inform students rate your financial means are and it will also help aboutfinancial literacy and credit cards. Jenkins you experience more financial success. • Variable interest rate: This rate is the percentage that a was one of 12 students selected by MasterCard to borrower pays for the use of money, which can fluctuate Estimate your earnings, savings, and ex­ participate in “Are You Credit Wise?" a finan­ periodically based on changes in other interest rates. penses, and create goals according to these cial literacy program relying on a “peer-to-peer" teaching model to educate college students about estimates. Differentiate your needs and your Source: Adventures In Education, Bankrate.com wants and make adjustments where necessary. money management skills. Be honest in your assessment. If you normally Paying for Spelman: The Recession Guide Briyyah McClain a Facebook group designed to help ition and fees. RISE is a research initiative that Staff Writer Spelman students find scholarships. Similarly, sophomore Christian provides professional development For many students, paying for Watkins earned a monetary award to opportunities for historically under­ So, what’s on the mind of many their education is an obstacle that pay for tuition by participating in the represented groups in the biomedical incoming Spelman students? They has left them with very few options MBRS-RISE program this summer. field. are wondering if they’ll ever get used this year. However, several Spelman Funded by the National Institute to living with the strangers some students have found creative ways of General Medical Sciences of the call roommates, their 8 a.m. class, to fund their education for the 2009- National Institutes of Health, MBRS- and most of all, the huge price tag 2010 academic year. The combina­ on their education. Thus, every bit tion of a suffering economy and the of funding towards tuition and fees higher tuition and fees of a private While there are many resources available to Spelman students, it takes a makes a difference to students. Know­ college has inspired students to take creative spirit to turn the dream of attending Spelman for another year into ing how to tap into financial resources advantage of the scholarship resourc­ a reality. is where many students fall short. es available on campus and online. Kara Gardner, one of two schol­ Ashley Owens and Aris White are • Make your search personal: Narrow it to ethnicity, income, classification. arship coordinators in Spelman’s among the many students at Spelman major, etc. This w ill improve a student’s odds. Scareh sites like Fastweb. Financial Aid Office, says one of the who found creative ways to pay this com allows student- to narrow searches down to personal char;«, tertstu - most common gaffes students make year’s tuition and fees over the sum­ and interests. when looking for tuition money is not mer. submitting their applications early From late May until July, they • Get involved: Join Jumpstart or a similar program lor a year and earn and failing to checking their e-mail devoted 300 hours of community an educational award to pay tuition and fees while giv ing back to the accounts for scholarship opportuni­ service with Jumpstart, an Ameri- community, v j ties. Corps program focused on improving • Rent your text hooks: At Chegg.com students can find most text books Gardner advises students to begin early childhood education in some of for only a 1 /S of the cost that they would spend at the college bookstore. their search early and to apply at the the nation's most under served areas. beginning of the fall semester. She After successfully completing their • Tap into federal resources. Fill out the FAFSA online and do it early in also suggests that students take ad­ service hours, AmeriCorps awarded the beginning of the new year before you or your parents prepare taxes. vantage of the applications and books Owens and White a $1,000 award in the financial aid office and to join that went directly towards their tu­ ------entertainment7spotlight Special Interests Campus life offers a plethora of activities

Getting involved with several organizations and Community Leaders Council: Are you a leader? to remain active and in tune with the Spelman com­ other special interests groups on campus can be a Are you organized and think you can make a posi­ munity even after commencement has passed. This daunting task. Because there is so much to chose tive influence on your fellow Spelman sisters? If you group of Spelmanites are responsible for ensuring from, it may take some time to decide which groups answered yes to these questions, Community Leaders that the relationship between current students and are truly for you. While students are often seeking to Council (previously Hall Council) may be the place alumnae is healthy and thriving. Events such as join more popular organizations such as the Student for you. Within each first-year residence hall, there Homecoming, Christmas Celebrations, and Founders Government Association and P.U.L.S.E, they should are various positions for which students may run. If Day serve as events in which Pre-Alumnae members know that there are other groups in which they can you’re interested, get your platform together, as cam­ bring alumnae to campus to unite with their fellow participate. The Spelman Spotlight has compiled a list paigning can be quite vigorous and competitive. Spelman sisters. of just a few of these organizations: Jaguars Athletics & Cheerleading: Yes, Spelman Spelman’s Independent Scholars Program (SIS): Afrekete: We all wish there was a place we could go has athletic teams. The college offers volleyball, As Spelman students, we are all thirsting for knowl­ sometimes and just be comfortable in our own skin- soccer, cross country, tennis, basketball, softball, edge. Spelman’s Independent Scholars program sexuality included. Afrekete is an activist group in and golf teams so get involved! Former cheerlead­ gives students an opportunity to have an in-depth the Atlanta University Center that will provide you ers, what better way to reach out and have fun at the learning experience with other scholars. This group with just that. “Afrekete,” is the name of a character same time than by cheering on your Spelman sisters? is comprised of a diverse set of scholars majoring in derived from Audre Lorde’s “Zami,” which delves into By becoming a member of the Spelman Cheerleading all fields. Spelman’s Independent Scholars program issues of developing a vivid understanding of self- team, you not only show your support for Spelman’s lasts for two semesters. The first semester focuses identity. Afrekete pulls from this theme and provides basketball team, you can experience an excellent on research and interviews, while the second concen­ students with a place to break down barriers that the work out, too. trates on transcribing and editing. Weekly seminars outside world may throw at anyone who is a apart of and meetings are used in order to increase knowledge Pre-Alumnae Council: Do you love Spelman Col­ the LGBTQ community. Come and free yourself of of oral history. The SIS often includes special guests lege? Of course you do! Every Spelman undergradu­ the judgmental reigns of the mainstream, or come as well as oral historians to enhance the learning ate student aspires to someday graduate and thus be­ to understand the issues which your LGBTQ sisters experience. come alumnae. For this reason there is a group called face everyday. the Pre-Alumnae Council, which paves students’ way Compiled by Dema Moreland.

Welcome to the West End Home of the Atlanta University Center You should also become accustomed ness Association, West End inhabitants discounted books for your courses. to the sounds of southwest Atlanta— began moving to the suburbs, and this Among these cultural landmarks, the latest hip hop tunes blasting from migration ushered in new space for exist new establishments like the Sky passing Chevy cars and rimmed-out highly distinguished Black Americans. Lofts, an urban lifestyle housing com­ Buicks driving down Lee Street or Along with this migration came plex. The West End is undergoing a parked in the West End Mall parking much of the cultural vibrancy that is remarkable revitalization. Such addi­ lot. still visible today. For instance, Ham­ tions to the West End are highly an­ When venturing around the area you monds House is an independent art ticipated and some people believe they may be alarmed. The experience of hu­ museum that solely displays pieces are much needed in order to bring the manity that you will encounter walking that represent the African Diaspora. area back to the level of socioeconomic around the outskirts of our campus is Historians believe the building was and cultural diversity that it once held. one that should inspire you, encourage built around 1 880, making it one of the The West End community, although it you, and in some instances, uplift you. three oldest homes in the West End. It is often made out to be a place ravished To be a Spelman woman is to see the was renovated shortly before the death by poverty and desolation, is simply realities of this world and to approach of its original owner, Dr. Otis Thrash a community with a rich past and an it with a heart filled with compassion, Hammonds, a prominent Atlanta physi­ even brighter future. and a mind set on being the advocate cian and arts patron. I remember the first time I went for change. Another noteworthy cultural land­ to the West End Mall. On the ceiling At first glance, the West End is scape is the Shrine of the Black Ma- hung numerous banners depicting all “just.. .the West End”. It’s your new five colleges representing the Atlanta Hammonds House is an independent art mu­ seum that displays pieces from the African home, and it’s a place that may take You may not realize University Center consortium. In Diaspora. Historians believe the building was a little getting use to. You may not it, but the West End the middle of the building hung one built around 1880, making it one of the three realize it, but the West End was once was once a highly particular banner that read, “Welcome oldest homes in the West End. a highly prominent Atlanta area that prominent Atlanta Back Students”. Upon seeing this for boasted the very best of African-Amer­ the first time I felt a sense of pride. I Briana Haymon area that boasted the ican culture. felt accepted, and I felt at home in this Staff Writer Established in 1835, the West End is very best of African- foreign area. Even though this com­ one of the oldest neighborhoods in the American culture. munity may not be able to provide the At first glance, the Historic West metropolitan Atlanta area. Named after finer things in life we may be accus­ End may not look like much. In fact, a fashionable theater district in London, donna, a bookstore located on Ralph D. tomed to coming from our various you may be lost on the idea of historic England, the West End was considered Abernathy Boulevard. For the Afrocen­ backgrounds, it was satisfying to know all together. to be the prime area for up-and-coming tric buff the Shrine is a great place to that within the West End, we could Traveling on the Atlanta Univer­ development in the 1870s because of find literature and artistic pieces that find support. sity Center shuttle in transit to the its location being five minutes away boasts the very best from the Mother­ What lies in between is the op­ MARTA station, you can expect to from the heart of downtown. land. The Shrine promotes the belief portunity for students to contribute see a surplus of stores and fast food Due to its popularity, the West End that in order to understand ourselves to its restoration and to make it their eateries such as Gut Busters, a restau­ community experienced exponential as a people we must invest in our cul­ adopted home. Welcome to Atlanta and rant serving Philly cheese steaks, and growth, and up until the 1960s, the ture. Beyond intellectual literature, you welcome to the West End. Maxway, a department store offering area was predominately white. But with can purchase jewelry and participate in deep discounts on household items and the founding of the West End Busi­ special events. You may even find some toiletries. entert c¡¡nment8spotl¡qht lili ‘I

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Southern charm and Urban flavor converge in this “New Capital of the South”, known for its trendy nightclubs, chic boutiques, world- renowned attractions and charming restaurants. Venture out to Atlanta’s diverse neighborhoods: Buckhead, Downtown, Little Five Points, Midtown, Virginia Highlands and West End to experience all that this metropolis of personality, style, food, music and history has to offer!

You've gathered everything you need and you have designed your of boutiques and stores ranging from living space just the way you like it. the well-known American Apparel to around Atlanta for students to hang It’s beginning to feel a little more local treasures like Cherry Bomb, a shoe lover’s heaven, and Rags-O-Rama, out with a laid back atmosphere. Tilt like home. You know that there are a thrifty shop that allows customers to Coffee Shop, located in Castleberry several events for you to attend dur­ ^Beauty buy, sell, and trade old threads, bags, Hill, offers a warm comfortable en­ ing orientation, and you have come and shoes, www.lp5.com. Castleberry vironment www.tiltroom.com. The Once you have gotten your Hill, which is located just around the Grounds Coffee Shop, located behind prepared, but what about outside of hair done, what better way corner from the Atlanta University CVS on Ralph David Abernathy Road, Spelman’s gates? No worries. The to finish it off than with Center, also offers a variety of bou­ is also a great place to hangout and Spelman Spotlight has got you cov­ a manicure and pedicure? tiques such as Adrene’s Boutique and chill. Ph: 404-753-7063 For a great nail salon experi- ered with a quick guide to some of Dymond Wayz Accessories Heav’n ence, try lOTen Nail Bar in Atlanta’s salons, shopping districts, Boutique, which offers high-end cos­ Midtown. This nail shop not Clubs tumer jewelry, quality inspired leather restaurants, hangout spots, and only specialize in manicures bags, and more, www.castleberryhill. clubs. and pedicures, but it also org & Leisure offers eyebrow waxing services. For leisure, there are plenty of events www.10tennailbar.com. An- Atlanta collegians can attend. Col­ * Hair other nail salon with low pricing, * Dining lege Night at the High Museum gives but with a spa experience, is C- Although many students are grateful students the opportunity to experience For students who wear perms and Nails & Spa in the Edge- wood texturizers Blendz Hair Salon is an for Spelman’s cafeteria, several stu­ the High Museum on a different level. community. Ph: 404-230- 6255. dents will want a taste for something On these special nights, the museum establishment that specializes in relax­ I-Too, which is located in East ing, coloring, and sew-ins. The salon is different. For a down home Southern stays open until midnight offering live Atlanta Village, offers an alterna- meal, check out Busy Bee Café, which music, dancing, and other activities at a located in the West End behind CVS. tive to eyebrow wax- ing. The Ph: 404-758-0155. For students with is minutes away from campus, www discounted price, www.high.org. Last, salon removes facial hair using thebusybeecafe.com. For American but not least, after getting dolled up, Iocs check ont Bor nu Locs in Decatur, an ancient East- ern tech- Ga. The salon specializes in naturals, Cuisine, try Tapas Lounge. This eatery one of your last stops of the day may nique called “threading.” specializes in all kinds of American be the club. Club Miami and Club Eros locs, twists, and coloring. Ph: 678-360- This removal method 2116. Peezy Headz in Little 5 Points cuisine from chicken tenders to cheese­ are popular among first-year students. is said to yield bet­ burgers. Euclid Avenue Yacht Club and Worried about transportation? Several also offers loc maintenance, ter results than plucking twists, braids and ther­ Soul Vegetarian-West End are favored club promoters provide free shuttles and traditional waxing. The mal silkening. www. establishments for vegetarian fare. that will pick up and drop off students. salon also offers henna body art tattoos For pizza, check out one of the many There’s also Apache Café. The café is peezyheadz.com The and body waxing, www.itoosalon.com more upscale and pricier Fellini’s Pizza locations in Atlanta. located downtown and offers a relaxed Too Groovy Salon and Spa www.fellinisatlanta.com. club atmosphere for those who desire also of- fers services for * Shopping live music and an artistic environment. Common guests include Janelle Monáe natural and relaxed hair in At Spelman, students have their own *Hot Spots to and the AUC-bred hip jazz musical act, addition to full spa services. individual styles. In Atlanta, there are Jaspects. WWW. toogroovy.net plenty of malls and shopping centers Hangout or Study aside from the popular Lenox Square SometimeVwe just need to get away J Mall and Atlantic Station. Other great Compiled by Sydney E. Robinson and from campus to study and hang out Michelle D. Anderson areas to shop include Little 5 Points. with friends. There are great spots The shopping district offers a variety