This special summer edition of Don’t spend the Tropolitan is a guide What’s Inside: to campus life prepared by stu- more than dent journalists. It’s tailored for you have to How to join new students, especially those on textbooks new sorority attending IMPACT summer ori- entation. pg. 2 pg. 12 Troy University’s Offcial Student Newspaper ROPOLITAN Vol. 90, Issue 30 www.TropNews.com/impact Summer 2017 Prevent freshie errors

Santana Wood

Not getting involved early, eating too much campus Chick-fl-A, and neglecting to learn where the library was before mid-semester are among the things Allyson Waldrop, social work major from Cullman, regrets from her freshman year at Troy University. Hannah Stone photo Freshman year is the frst year of college and a time of frsts for many things. It is where you start gaining Football rises through the ranks a degree, but also friendships and life experiences. Football players high-fve fellow Troy students who came to support their team at Troy’s Veterans Students strive to do their best, but mistakes happen. Memorial Stadium in its game against UMass on Nov. 5, 2016. The Trojans won 52-31. For more “I would tell incoming freshmen to get involved information about the rise of Troy’s football team, visit Page 9. early,” said Waldrop, who was a senior in the spring. “I didn’t join an organization right away, and it got real boring, real quick.” Waldrop has been involved with Alpha Delta Pi sorority, which helped her gain friends as well as get Old arena to get ‘rec’ed some volunteer work in the books. See Mistakes, Page 14 New rec center groundbreaking You can appeal set this summer Hannah Stone a parking ticket Construction for a university rec- reation center is projected to start at the beginning of August 2017, with to student panel completion expected in November Justin Blowers to the web address at the 2018, according to Olivia Melton, bottom of the ticket. The 2016-17 president of the Student Kylie Foor walked out appeal form can also be Government Association. of her dorm to be greeted found under the traffc According to Jim Bookout, by an offcer writing her appeals tab, which is Artist’s rendering of an aerial view of the new recreation facility senior vice chancellor of fnance a parking ticket. But that under the SGA tab, on the planned to be completed in 2018. Design is subject to change. and business affairs, construction wasn’t the end of her story. Troy University website. will begin as soon as the plans are Clark, an exercise science major is expected to be ready in October Her ticket was just one Next, you should submit fnalized, with the goal of starting in from Birmingham who was a junior to replace the lost Sartain parking, of the many given on Troy the parking ticket online August. in the spring. according to Melton. University’s main campus. along with any argument A total of 8,480 parking “The process has been success- The new rec center will be built Melton, a mathematics and as to why the ticket should tickets were given in six be voided. ful, and the architects have been where the Sartain Hall parking lot is economics major from Orange months, according to the guided by the Wellness and Recre- now located, during which Sartain Beach who was a senior in the Troy University Police The more evidence you ation Center Committee comprised will remain operational. After the spring, encourages students to take Department. have—especially pictures —the better, according to of four students, two senior vice new rec center is built, Sartain will advantage of the university’s transit Getting a ticket is a Patterson. chancellors, two student services be torn down to create a parking lot. system when parking will be short reality that many Troy representatives, the city of Troy’s With parking already a concern, early in the fall. Bookout suggests University students have “Make sure you have all rec center director, physical plant the university announced plans for that students use the outer lots, such to face. However, you can the facts you believe are as the Trojan Arena lot. and a project manager,” Bookout a new parking lot near the Trojan appeal a ticket. relevant,” he said. “Don’t said. “The process to date has taken Center earlier this year. The new lot See Rec, Page 6 Foor, a psychology come in without any facts, several months.” major from Enterprise and know where you who was a junior in the parked.” In the fall of 2016, a $100 fee was spring, decided to appeal See Tickets, Page 7 tacked on to the bill of each full-time to the Traffc Appeals student to help pay for construction. Committee. According to Bookout, Troy’s Daniel Patterson from Board of Trustees will increase the Alpharetta, Georgia, fee by $25 every four years. who was chairman of the committee and a junior “The fees will pay the debt service political science major in on the bonds used to build the the spring, said there is facility,” Bookout said. “The fees do no reason to be nervous not cover the operational expenses or intimidated about the of the facility.” process. “We decided that the best thing “We’re not mean for Troy long-term would be to people,” Patterson said. make this new rec center the face Artist’s rendering of an inside look of the new recreational facili- “We’re all just students.” of Troy,” said SGA Sen. Sierra ty. Design is subject to change. The frst step is to go Sable Riley graphic Recipe for success: Chancellor advises four steps Jack Hawkins Jr., getting the most out of al marketplace that awaits $1.3 trillion and for the of comedian Woody Allen, Ph.D. your TROY experience. you after graduation. frst time was greater than who said, “Ninety percent Chancellor I will focus on what I 2. Get involved! credit card debt. of success is showing up!” believe are the four most Involved students Do not take out student Go to class, and get to important topics. are usually successful loans unless you abso- On behalf of the know your professors. 1. As Alabama’s In- students. Join a special-in- lutely need them. Manage They will be happy to help Troy University family, ternational University, terest club, play intramural your money wisely by welcome to the 2017 you if you show an interest TROY enrolls students sports or pledge a Greek following an expense in your academic work. IMPACT sessions, which from almost 80 nations organization. budget. will provide an orientation around the world. A word of warning, 4. Learn TROY Again, I am pleased that to your new college home. Take advantage of this however: Don’t get so traditions. you chose Troy Universi- I am glad you have Jack Hawkins Jr., opportunity to get to involved that you neglect It’s important to know ty, and I hope the IMPACT chosen Troy University, chancellor of Troy know classmates from your academic work. the words of the alma sessions are interesting and informative. and I believe in time you University other cultures. 3. Be smart with your mater and the fght will believe it was one of You will make lifetime money, and manage your song. Take time to learn Do not hesitate to ask the best decisions of your cellor for 28 years, there friends, and you will debt. about the history of the questions of your IMPACT life. is a great deal of advice better prepare yourself for Last year, total student University. leaders! They are there to After serving as chan- I could give you about success in the internation- debt in the USA topped Finally, take the advice assist you. Page 2 Tropolitan, Summer 2017 Finding the best textbook for you Sydney Taylor “It’s important for students to realize that fnancial aid will only pay for books Angela Clark opens her laptop’s if you are able to charge from a refund. browser, class schedule in hand, and A fnancial aid refund is the surplus searches for the least expensive textbooks money you receive after your tuition, she can fnd. room and board, meal plan and any other “I can’t afford to waste money on fees have been paid for. textbooks,” said Clark, an anthropolo- If a student plans to use fnancial aid gy major from Birmingham who was a to pay for textbooks at the bookstore, the junior in the spring. “o I make sure to student must complete all requirements check every possible source for the best to receive aid. price. Financial aid problems According to the ffce of Financial Aid’s Cost of Attendance document, the “The main problems we experience average cost of books and supplies for are when students have not gotten their the 2016-2017 fall and spring semesters ducks in a row, ade said. “They’ll was ,. sometimes forget to sign a promisso- ry note or complete the paperwork, and Clark attempts to keep that price down, because we aren’t fnancial aid, we are which sometimes means getting books unable to f it. Another big problem is from somewhere other than the campus that they’ll wait too long and miss the arnes oble bookstore. deadline to use their aid. “What I don’t think a lot of incoming According to Bradley, students have freshmen realize is that you don’t have to around a month to buy or rent textbooks get your books strictly from the school’s Sydney Taylor photo using fnancial aid. The deadline for bookstore, Clark said. “I typically Angela Clark, an anthropology major from Birmingham who was a ju- using fnancial aid is typically the get mine from Chegg, Amazon and the nior in the spring, shops for textbooks and supplies in the Troy University onday after classes have begun. bookstore. Barnes & Noble bookstore. For fall , students will be able ‘Ask your professor’ ing tetbooks. This means that if a said. to begin using fnancial aid to purchase Jonathon Carswell, a biology major student fnds a tetbook at a lower cost Alison Bradley, the textbook charge books on July 24 and the deadline for from Troy who was a senior in the somewhere else, the bookstore will sell coordinator for tudent Financial using aid is Aug. . spring, has a list of rules when purchas- the student that book at the lower price. ervices, discussed the university’s “We love helping students,” Bradley ing tetbooks. According to Christopher Wade, the tetbook policy. said. “ut students have to help them- “ule o. , ask your professor if the assistant manager at the campus Barnes selves. That’s my golden rule. I will do book is required and needed for success & Noble, the store will price-match new, Buy books anywhere anything I can for you, when I can. If it’s in a class, he said. “ule o. , check used, and used rental textbooks from “The university’s policy is that you can after the deadline, it’s after the deadline. multiple sources. If the difference is plus Amazon.com and arnesoble.com. get textbooks from any source, and that’s Bradley suggested that students rent or or minus $20, buy your book elsewhere The books that the students fnd to with us, radley said. “owever, buy books early and also check with pro- because that difference adds up. price-match must be fulflled and shipped because we have a contract with the fessors to guarantee that the textbooks He also suggests that new students by the Amazon.com and arneso- campus bookstore, we can 100 percent will actually be required before the talk to their academic advisers about ble.com stores specifcally, in the same guarantee that your books will be there deadline to return books passes. four-year plans so they know which condition, meaning used or new, and in and that you can use fnancial aid there. If using the campus bookstore, students books they will need more than once. stock on the site and on campus. Bradley added that students should can also make purchases online through In the fall of 2016, the Barnes & Noble “The students have the burden of proof know that even if they get fnancial aid, it their eb press accounts or at troy. campus bookstore began price-match- when it comes to price matching,” Wade will not automatically pay for tetbooks. bncollege.com. All about Hogwarts, other novelties Samuel Mattison owling. University, said before a course is handed the dean and chair of that department to “The class gives an interesting insight to the administration to be put into the approve. Quills, scrolls and Harry Potter are into the books, rannum said. schedule, it must frst pass the approval Kirk Curnutt, the chairman of the items that you might not associate with a When asked why he joined the class, of its department. English department, said Kaylor was the college course, but you will fnd them at he had a simple reply: “With course offerings, the chair originator of the “arry otter idea. Troy niversity. “I was a fan of arry otter. and the dean are the two critical deci- “It was a no-brainer, and we are happy Noel Kaylor, professor of English, ‘The Twilight Zone’ sion-makers, Fulmer said. “For degree to offer it, Curnutt said. taught a course called elected Topics programs, these two are critical in initiat- in iterature about .. owling’s seven On another side of campus, a group Troy University will offer a variety of students wait in a classroom to begin ing the new programs, and I get involved of unique courses in the fall, including arry otter novels during spring . in the approval process. And it’s not the only unusual course that their course. As class starts, the lights archery, beginning swimming, beginning you will fnd on campus. dim and a T show opening is played. Classes are proposed by professors in tennis, physical defense for women, and “You’re traveling through another a department. Then, they are given to scuba diving. Harry Potter dimension, a dimension not only of arry otter is a fctional book and sight and sound but of mind,” the movie series featuring a protagonist show’s opening says. “A journey into of the same name attending Hogwarts a wondrous land of imagination. et JOIN TROY UNIVERSITY chool for itchcraft and izardry. The stop, the Twilight Zone!” books mainly focus on his adventures David “Doc” Kirby, a lecturer of com- with his friends and quest to defeat an munication, taught a course called Jour- evil wizard named oldemort. nalism and ocial ustice in “The Twilight The course gained media attention, one during the fall semester. The with Kaylor being featured on multiple course focused on watching and inter- radio shows, newspapers and online preting the meaning behind episodes websites. eventeen students enrolled. from “The Twilight one. “It’s defnitely the most uniue course “The Twilight one is a fctional I’ve taught, aylor said. anthology series from the 1960s featuring tudents complete their work on pieces stories from a dimension known as the of parchment. aylor said some students Twilight one. ach episode focuses on a even use quills in keeping with the protagonist being put into a situation that tradition of the arry otter franchise. is both bizarre and thought-provoking. Kaylor said the response from students “For me, it was more than a T show, has been “extremely positive,” and he irby said. has considered teaching the course again. Kirby said what appear to be just en- “If there is a demand, I’ll do it again,” tertaining stories are windows into the aylor said. deep, complicated nature of humankind. Tim Brannum, an English major from He said the course was designed to Pelham who was a freshman in the let students view the world in a more spring, was a student in the Harry Potter comple and deep way. course. Kirby said a student told him that the Brannum said that he enjoyed the course made him a fan of the series. course and the way class was conducted. The course offered deep discussions How it happens into philosophy, language and ideologies al Fulmer, the vice provost and the and even a look into the psyche of author dean for undergraduate studies at Troy Tropolitan, Summer 2017 Page 3 Students made special edition Dealing with college’s stress of Tropolitan Nathaniel Rodriguez In addition to the counsel- a group of students: If Mary Stewart, a social ing center, there are student freshmen, sophomores, for newcomers work major from Prattville organizations such as Trojan juniors, seniors, graduate Students can use this who was a junior in the Outreach and the National level,” said Dr. Joel Willis, special summer edition of spring, had not learned to Alliance on Mental Illness assistant professor of re- the Tropolitan as a guide cope with her stress, she on Campus (NAMI). habilitation and faculty to help achieve success at might not have survived. Trojan Outreach provides adviser to NAMI on Troy University. In the fall of 2015, stress relief materials, such Campus. This edition is designed as stress balls, art journals Stewart was dealing with Group support specifcally for students being an accounting major, and coping boxes, to participating in IMPACT a student leader for The students for no cost. “All these folks together, summer orientation, but Fellowship of Catholic “We also just try to we want them to come also distributed to students University Students, a have at least one day a together and have a group on campus at the end of Trojan Ambassador and a semester that we dedicate where they can get support spring semester 2017. resident assistant for the to just being like a stress- where they need it.” Students who worked Newman Center. free day where we have a Students like Stewart, on this project as writers, The weight of all these bunch of games out and who eventually fgure out editors, photographers activities caught her by stuff for people to do that how to cope with stress, and advertising sales rep- surprise. isn’t related to school or learn how to perform resentatives include the “Honestly, when I work or anything else,” better and apply their following: started off, I was very said Nelson DeLucca, lessons outside school. Lacey Alexander, Holly eager,” Stewart said. “I housing liaison for Trojan “Since I’m going into Ammons, Josiah Askew, became extremely over- Nathaniel Rodriguez photo Outreach and a psychol- social work, it’s a job Tori Bedsole, Sarah Blain, whelmed later.” Mary Stewart, a social work major from Prattville ogy major from Smiths where people can get Justin Blowers, Alexander who was a junior in the spring of 2017, works while Station who was a senior easily burnt out if they Collier, Kathleen Egbert, Taking time on duty at the Newman Center. in the spring. don’t learn to use coping Alex Foxx, LaBrecia To deal with her stress, NAMI on Campus methods,” Stewart said. Stewart took time for drug abuse often make Students can make Jackson, Sam Mattison, matters worse. serves as a support group “I would say I’m pretty Shelby Miller, Graham herself, investing in an appointment with “If I start drinking, when for students dealing with prepared. My professors Pierce, Sinclair Portis, hobbies such as reading a counselor Monday I sober up, I’m going to be mental illness. These do a pretty good job with Sable Riley, Nathaniel and drawing. She also through Friday and talk depressed, and then I’m students provide peer teaching how to apply Rodriguez, James Shipma, found that being involved about subjects like stress, not going to be able to do support for each other. what you learn in class to Mynecia Steele, Hannah helped ease her stress. my best work,” Creamer anxiety and mental illness. “We want to have your future career.” Stone, Sydney Taylor and Stewart’s case is not said. “It’s compounding Santana Wood. unique. Many students come to Troy University factors coming into play.” For most, the special To manage stress, it is edition was part of their unprepared for the stress of university life due to important to take care of work during spring jour- physical health frst by nalism classes taught by lack of external motiva- tors to keep them on track, maintaining a healthy Steve Stewart. eating and sleep schedule, During the fall and according to Dr. Andrew Creamer, chairman of the according to Creamer. spring semesters, students He also explained the publish the Tropolitan counseling, rehabilitation and interpreter training importance of serotonin, every Thursday as an which functions as a mood extracurricular activity, department. Some students who have stabilizer. If people are not connected with any stressed, they can create class. Other student media pre-existing psychological or emotional issues can serotonin by exercising or include the Palladium being exposed to sunlight. yearbook and Trojan- also be adversely affected Vision television news. by the pressure, although Taking control You need not be a jour- some beneft from the The last tip Creamer nalism major to work on structure it provides. gave was to maintain a these media. Newcomers “We probably see a planner to keep events and are welcome. Tropolitan split between both sides, priorities organized and and Palladium scholar- but a lot of people thrive prevent a loss of control. ships are available. when they’re struggling,” The university has For information about Creamer said. resources for students the student media or the To deal with their who need mental help. Hall School of Journal- stress, some students turn The Student Counseling ism and Communication, to different methods of Center at 113 College contact Stewart at 334- coping, although some are Drive provides free 670-3328 or the J-school harmful. counseling to students offce at --. Coping techniques who are enrolled in at Or email sstewart71298@ such as procrastination, least one credit hour on troy.edu. drinking, binge eating and Troy’s main campus. Page 4 Tropolitan, Summer 2017 Prof peeves: sleepers, Say WHAT? unprepared students The Tropolitan asked fve professors Sable Riley out-of-class assignments and arrive in the following question: class unprepared. What advice would you give to incoming “If I see a student nodding off, I have “If you’ve arrived to a college-level some kind of respect,” said Richard classroom without something to write on students enrolling in your class? Nokes, associate professor of English. and something to write with, then, when “They’re trying to stay awake. They you leave the classroom, you should walk “Make sure you go to your classes. I don’t even care if you have the immediately to the registrar’s offce and right answers to your stuff, or if you have all of it. What I’m looking for is dragged their butts to class, and they’re trying to stay awake.” withdraw,” Nokes said, “because you’re that you tried—made an attempt.” not ready for a college-level education —Ken LaBrant, director of the university honors program Nokes said he is particularly annoyed with “the ones who are like ‘the heck nor, frankly, adulthood. “Students need to take responsibility. Talk to the instructor early. Seek to with this, I’m just going to put my head “You should probably go back to your understand, and then study.” down,’ ” for which his usual response is high school and ask them to re-admit you —John Kline, distinguished professor of leadership and direc- to ask them where they live and tell them as a freshman; perhaps even your elemen- tor of the Troy University Institute for Leadership Development they are welcome to sleep in his class. tary school would be my suggestion.” Nokes said that it’s one thing to say “Understand that we are human beings. We do not try to make classes “But, at 3 a.m., when they’re trying to you were too busy to do the assignments, eceedingly diffcult. e are concerned about their success, sometimes sleep, I’m going to break in their house, but “when you show up without the basic more than they are. We really, really hate to fail students.” stand over their bed and lecture them about today’s lecture,” Nokes said. tools to do those things, what you’re —Susan Sarapin, assistant professor really saying is ‘I have no intention of of multimedia journalism and communication Students sleeping in his class is one among a plethora of pet peeves Nokes doing those things.’ It wasn’t that ‘I got “Consider this the beginning of your career, and if it’s something you and other professors listed concerning busy’; it was that ‘I never wanted to.’ ” would not do in your career, then don’t do it in school.” student behaviors in the classroom. His biggest pet peeve is students —Richard Nokes, associate professor of English Nokes, who has worked at Troy for 14 engaging in behaviors that distract other students. “I would recommend that students (a) show up on time, (b) take lots of years, recalled many personal and pro- notes, (c) study their notes thoroughly, and (d) remember that learning is fessional peeves he has developed as an He recounted one experience with a fun.” educator. freshman years ago, whom he described fguratively as an “endless shoe polisher, —Christopher Bradley, associate professor of sociology One of his top concerns rests with students who have not completed the See Peeves, Page 5 Tropolitan, Summer 2017 Page 5

Institute for Leadership Development, said pro- Peeves crastination is the most From Page 4 concerning negative student behavior. which, according to “When students miss Nokes, is “someone for — don’t get their work whom the apple is never done — they’re not shiny enough.” getting the value that they n the frst day, when deserve, and they’re, con- he reviewed the syllabus sequently, wasting their for the class, the frst-row money and their parents’ student would raise her money,” Kline said. “I’m hand after every section to concerned that students Peeves ask if there were addition- don’t jump right on as- al assignments she could continued from page 4 signments and work on complete or books she them. Students that do, do could read for extra credit. so much better.” To this, Nokes Kline and Susan Sarapin, responded, “No, there assistant professor of mul- aren’t going to be any op- timedia journalism and portunities for extra credit communication, worry in the class.” that students graduating After this student in- from high school lack a terrupted class at least 10 sense of accountability. times to prompt the same Sarapin recalled response, Nokes said, students returning to class “Right now, you have no from having been absent, regular credit in the class, Sable Riley photo asking: “Dr. Sarapin, I was so why don’t you just Richard Nokes, associate professor of English, lectures in front of his class, teaching the history of absent on Thursday. Did focus on seeing if you can the English language. we do anything?” get regular credit?” “You will always have “I didn’t think that was your scholarship.” pet peeves your professor your professor can make about whether they are missed something,” that harsh,” he said, “but has because they’re all so or break your experience Sarapin said. “I don’t Ken LaBrant, director willing to put in effort to she started crying. … Ap- different, and some can be in a class, and your GPA. come and teach and not of the university honors make a good impression,” parently, it gave great joy very particular.” teach something, so the program, said he viewed “It’s really up to the utton said. “I would def- to the other students.” question is such an insult.” pet peeves less as Sutton said in college, student to make a decision nitely suggest it.” Nokes said there were While something that annoys many pet S a r a p i n him personally, and more peeves he said she as oddities. developed “It’s really up reaches out Among his perplexities, after specifc to the student to to students he named students not incidents who miss attending class regularly. in his make a decision o f t e n , “It’s like buying a classroom. about whether it is the pair of shoes and never “I have, they are willing student’s wearing them and, as a on a matter of fact, throwing I S C O responsi- couple of t t eft bility to them away brand new,” he occasions, to make a good make up the said. “That’s your money. had students work and It seems strange to me. I a r r e s t e d impression.” improve her might be like, ‘That’s odd.’ out of the — Bailey Sutton, grade. Could you have not given classroom,” “In the those shoes, or that class, Nokes said. business major last week to another person? Maybe “If you’re of the purchase credit for other going to get semester, I can’t tell you people so they can attend?” arrested, do it on your own how many students write Bailey Sutton, a business time.” to me and tell me basically major from Homewood Nokes had one student that this is the frst time who was a junior in the who fnished every they’ve looked at their spring, said she has ex- sentence with “dawg.” grade and they see that perienced an array of “After addressing me they’re getting a C or a professor pet peeves. on several occasions as D,” Sarapin said. “They “I once had a professor ‘Dawg,’ I insisted that he ask: ‘What can I do to that would freak out call me ‘Professor Dawg,’ get an A? If I don’t get if you wore a T-shirt which he did,” Nokes said. an A, I’m gonna lose my with another universi- John Kline, distin- scholarship.’ ty’s name on it,” Sutton guished professor of lead- “It’s a tough world, but I said. “I think it’s pretty ership and director of the can’t make sure you keep important to know what Page 6 Tropolitan, Summer 2017 On your own, becoming an adult

LaBrecia Jackson said. “I’ve been looking is exciting, but no one is The shocking realiza- for sale ads online and going to care about you tion of having to wake have downloaded coupon the way your parents do,” up on time for class, apps like P&G Brandsav- she said. wash their own clothes or er that allows me to print “You may not believe provide their own meals coupons off my computer. me now, but the frst time is eye-opening for some “Couponing and re- you’re sick and your freshmen. searching sales have parents aren’t there to tell “College has made me helped me save a lot of you what to take or take live up to the standards as money.” you to the doctor, you’ll a ‘young adult’ because Managing time see. my parents aren’t here to Aside from the basic “Your friends will care tell me to get up in time, responsibilities of and want you to get better, or to go to bed on time, becoming an adult, the but they aren’t going to or to go to church,” said most important lesson of drop everything for you Corey Mitchell, a business college, perhaps, is time LaBrecia Jackson photo the way your parents and fnance major from management. Adoria Hughes, a broadcast journalism major who was a freshman in the would.” Demopolis who was a “It’s so easy to get off spring uses apps lie randsaver to fnd coupons to budget money The students agree that freshman in the spring. track from homework, high school seniors should Adoria Hughes, a especially when you have versity orientation course, fnd a balance, oods who you are in order to be begin taking steps to broadcast journalism days to do it,” Hughes TROY 1101, are to help said. “Know why you’re accepted by others.” adjust to college life. major from Columbus, said. students learn about the at college. Have fun, but e advises frst-semes- Georgia, who was also “I made it my goal for Troy University system remember your main goal ter freshmen to be them- A game plan a freshman, agreed that this semester to stay on worldwide, become is graduation.” selves, explore the univer- college has made her a “Whatever you thought top of my work and do it familiar with resources Asked about homesick- sity’s opportunities and be more responsible person. about college … throw it right when it’s assigned of the university, acquire ness, both freshmen agree active on campus. out,” Woods said. “I have grown by instead of waiting.” strategies for succeeding that home-cooked meals “Within the classroom, budgeting my money,” she The goals of the uni- in college and in a career are what they miss most I try to be a resource to “College is not what such as time-manage- about living with their students because there are you see on TV, but instead Take a successful path: ment and study skills, parents. some who struggle, and it’s what you make it out and engage in campus I try to be that guide to to be. If you work hard, the university’s Trojan Way activities. Be yourself assist them in their road to you will see benefts. Counseling and psy- success.” Troy University’s advice for students includes Derrick Pernell, “Come into college with chology of student affairs following “the Trojan Way,” which promotes civility assistant dean of student Jordyn Elston, a a game plan and knowing graduate student Erin and responsibility by stressing the following tenets: services and orientation broadcast journalism what you want to accom- Woods advised that time n Be respectful. instructor, said that “one major from irmingham plish,” Hughes said. “If n Speak appropriately. management be a top of the biggest adjust- who was a senior in the you put in 100 percent n Dress properly for the occasion. priority for freshmen. ments for freshmen that I spring, advises freshmen effort, you will get the n Behave as a responsible, kind person. “Remember that what have seen is the ability to to keep good relationships results you want to see. n Adhere to applicable laws and policies. you do will reect through integrate into college life with their parents. College is all about what your grades, so be sure to without having to change “Being on your own you make it!”

from the upper levels. pool has a sloping design, with Group exercise classes will be no, no. o students that paid get Rec The frst oor will feature two the deepest area being about 4 determined by student surveys. to use the rec center!’” From Page 1 courts: a multipurpose court and feet. The deepest area is nearest Students have voiced concerns Bookout said the admin- a traditional basketball court. to the pool’s fountain. that they will be paying for the istration will consider all The front of the rec center The second oor will include There will be both wet and rec center but will graduate possibilities. will have a rotunda-like design cardio and strength equipment, dry individualized lockers before it is fnished. The A is similar to the student dining “The facility has a $24.5 a room for spin classes, and a for changing throughout the working with the administration hall and Trojan Arena. The front million ‘all in’ budget, which game room. The game room will facility. The wet locker rooms to create alumni benefts. entrance will be set up so that covers the construction cost, include billiards and pingpong will include showers, toilets and “It’s in the works,” Clark it can be closed off and guests architect costs, technology tables. sinks. said. “It’s on the table; it’s being can have access to restrooms on The third oor will have a discussed; your opinions are costs, furniture costs and other ballgame days, Melton said. running track, where 8.7 laps The SGA held town hall valid. I want to hear them and soft costs,” Bookout said. Students will also have access will equal one mile. There will meetings and surveys through- take them into consideration. “ew euipment will be leased, to a new healthy food option from also be access to an outdoor roof out the planning process to see “I want to make it a really big and we are looking at several the entrance without having to patio from this level. what students wanted in the new point that the administration vendors at the moment.” check into the center, although Outside, there will be a rec center. doesn’t hate students; they don’t Equipment will be leased, as the precise dining selection has swimming pool. The landscap- “I feel like the administra- oppose students; they don’t with the current ftness center. not been announced. ing around the center will help tion really listened to what the want students to not be able to The types of equipment will The plan allows students to create a private area for the pool, students wanted, and we got a use this rec center. They are not also be similar, but in greater look down to the lower levels designed for leisure use. The lot of it,” Melton said. some iron fst that is like o, quantity, Bookout said. Tropolitan, Summer 2017 Page 7 What’s best organization for you? Campus offers nearly 180 options — a chance to try something different Lacey Alexander from Orange Beach who dou- and fulflling, but it’s not the ble-majored in mathematics and only option.” economics, said that fnding the ith nearly organizations Buchin also said students right group begins at IACT. on campus, it might seem easy should try venturing outside to choose at least one to become “During that time, freshmen their majors. an active part of. are given various iers, infor- The challenge for most mation, and have the opportuni- “The theater department has students seems to be fnding the ty to ask students about campus open auditions every semester specifc organizations that make activities,” Melton said. for people who want to be them feel at home. “And during welcome week, involved in their productions — The university has a multitude student organizations are on the and you don’t have to be a major of religious, political, Greek, quad to talk to freshmen about to audition,” Buchin said. athletic and extracurricu- their clubs.” “I think venturing outside of lar groups, with membership Heath Barton, past president your major is important. I’m a numbers ranging from the of the SGA, agrees with the theater education major, and I handful of students in the flm importance of fnding the right work with both the dance and club to the hundreds of women club or group. music departments sometimes.” in the Phi Mu sorority. “Finding your niche at Troy For athletic students, the In- Learn about campus University goes deeper than just attending meetings and partic- tramural Sports Department The Student Government ipating in events,” said Barton, offers options that include Association presides over and an alumnus with a degree in indoor soccer, basketball, ag approves these groups. The risk management and insurance Payton Buchin photo football and swimming. SGA focuses on student life and from Opp. Some members of the Troy chapter of the Alpha Psi Ome- how these groups can beneft the Ultimate Frisbee is also a ga Theatre Honor Society after new-member initiation in popular sport on campus, with thousands of students at Troy. Make an impact May 2016. Bottom row, left to right: senior theater major “I would encourage freshmen “It is discovering who you are the Greek organizations holding Stephanie Clinton, junior dance major Kenzie Haynes, ju- a tournament every semester. to try new clubs that they may and making an impact for the best nior dance major London Brison. Middle row, left to right: not have had in high school,” on not only the individuals around alumna (theater) Elisa Dewberry, senior theater major Finding information said livia elton, - you, but the organization and Meagan Evans, senior theater major Vincent Rosec. Top president of the SGA. community that you serve in.” row, left to right: senior theater major Lacey Alexander, Many groups can be found on “Getting involved is critical Barton said he participated senior theater major Baine Ellis. Facebook, and most groups have for freshmen so they can get in religious, Greek and student presidents or faculty advisers acclimated with campus, and government groups, and each inner warrior spirit,” Barton But Payton Buchin, president who can answer questions. become heavily connected to of these groups gave him a said, “and encourage Troy and of Alpha Psi Omega, wants If all else fails, Melton recom- the Trojan family.” different experience at Troy. its student body to always strive freshmen to know that Greek mends asking someone for help. Melton, a senior in the spring “I was able to truly fnd my towards excellence.” life is not the only way to be “tudents can come by TC According to troy.edu/greek, involved. “Getting involved is critical Trojan Center to the A there are seven Interfraternity Sense of community to receive any information for freshmen so they can get Council fraternities, fve anhel- “I think some people think about the organizations on lenic sororities, and ational acclimated with campus, and that if they don’t join a sorority campus,” Melton said. anhellenic Council fraternities or fraternity that they won’t fnd become heavily connected on campus. a sense of community anywhere “Freshmen should keep an eye out for iers, emails, Facebook There are also Greek honor else, and that’s not true,” said to the Trojan family.” posts, and should ask older societies, such as Alpha Psi Buchin, a theater education students about activities.” — Olivia Melton, Omega for theater and dance major from Dothan who was a SGA president, 2016-17 students, and Sigma Alpha Iota senior in the spring. The troy.edu website has a full for music students. “I think Greek life can be fun list of organizations on campus.

bring in the ticket itself.” violation took place, and what Foor said she was happy with a suggestion to the chief. After the appeal is submitted, the violation was. how everything was handled, “Unless the student just Tickets the committee discusses it at the After hearing all arguments, even though it couldn’t be blatantly lies in their appeal’s ex- From Page 1 next meeting. The committee the committee issues a ruling, resolved at the meeting. planation, we stick by whatever Haley Neal, who was a meets every Tuesday at 4 p.m. in usually at that meeting. “It has to go a little bit further A rules, police Chief ohn sophomore communication the Student Government Associ- The best move for a student to the police chief due to the cCall said. major from Seattle and member ation offce, Trojan Center . who is appealing is to come to nature of the ticket, but it really If all parties believe that of the appeals committee in the At the meeting, the members the meeting, Patterson said. did seem like there are students the student’s ticket should be spring, said that “it really helps discuss the appeal and cross-ref- “Usually when you come to who are able to help,” Foor said. annulled, the voiding process if people bring in either pictures erence the facts. For example, us, we’re more receptive. You The university police chief will take about days, of where their car was parked or they look at the parking zone usually are able to get a more has the fnal say on all appeals. according to cCall. ltimate- things like that, and also if they map, where and at what time the in-depth explanation as to why.” The committee’s decision is just ly, Foor’s ticket was voided. ΑΟΠ

Troy’s new sorority!

Alpha Omicron Pi @AOIITroy @ Alpha Omicron Pi @AOIITroy . at Troy University , Page 8 Tropolitan, Summer 2017 Tropolitan, Summer 2017 Page 9 After 10-3 football season, will team do even better this year? Coach is inviting new students to ‘be a part of something special’ Alexander Collier

Troy University’s football team won 10 games last year, and head coach Neal Brown said that this year he wants the team to improve with the help of students and other fans. The Trojans’ record was 10-3 for the 2016 season, Brown’s second year as coach. The team won the Dollar General Bowl. “Our focus this year is im- provement,” Brown said. “We are transitioning from a program that’s rebuilding.” The motto “Rebuild the Wall” still applies, but the team has added another motto this year: “Run to The Roar.” Brown said Hannah Stone photo it means “that this team has Running back No. 38, Jordan Chunn, scores a touchdown against the University of Mas- expectations.” sachusetts on Nov. 5, 2016, in Veterans Memorial Stadium. The Trojans won 52-31. “You don’t cower down shows in the record books. It of something special.” from tough workouts or big all starts with what we do in the “If you don’t get Attendance was 25,782 for programs,” he said. “You face spring and summer.” better, it shows the Nov. 12, 2016, game against challenges head on.” The Trojans are coming off Appalachian State. It was the Al Pogue, defensive backs a record-breaking year, but the in the record books.” ffth-largest crowd in eterans coach, described what he room for improvement is always — Al Pogue, Memorial Stadium history. The expects from summer workouts. there. defensive backs coach Trojans won 28-24. “We want guys to compete The Trojans got 22 players on “It was close all game,” said every day this summer,” he signing day in February — the teams where guys can become Myles Charley, a graduate Alexander Collier photo said. “Bettering yourself from most in program history. immediate contributors.” student in business marketing No. 84, Robert Johnson, a the previous year is what builds “We signed a number of Brown said community from Birmingham. “Being at junior business major from programs. guys,” Brown said. “There leaders’ support of the university home and the fans being so loud Hueytown, catches the ball “If you don’t get better, it are several spots on special and its athletics has helped build really made the outcome. during the Trojan Day game fans’ interest. He said he hopes “I’ve been at Troy going on April 15, 2017. “Our focus this year is incoming students, as well as six years. That was one of the In addition to football, men’s improvement. We are returning fans, will do tailgating most electrifying games I’ve intercollegiate sports at Troy and experience the games. seen at Troy, and it can only get University include baseball, transitioning from a pro- The fan base gave Troy the better.” basketball, cross country, golf, gram that’s rebuilding.” edge in some of its games by The Trojans will play their tennis, and track and feld. being the “12th man,” he said. season opener at Boise State in Women’s sports include basket- — Neal Brown, “Some of your best college Idaho on ept. . The frst home ball, cross country, golf, soccer, head football coach experiences are tailgating and at game will be Sept. 9 against softball, tennis, track and feld, football games. Come be a part Alabama State. and volleyball. Students make lifelong bonds on campus

Photos provided by Buddy Johnson and Mynecia Steele Buddy Johnson, director of the university’s Broadcast and Digital Network, and Dr. Theresa M. Johnson, senior lecturer and director of development in the English department, on a recent wedding anniversary (left) and on their wedding day (middle). Courtney Batcher, an anthropology major from Ariton, and C. Nelson, a graphic design major from Pike Road, spending time together in the Trojan Center food court. ‘It’s nice just having someone to be there to talk to you about whatever you’re going through’ Mynecia Steele with Buddy Johnson often. She existing ones. Alliance’s “Gayme Night.” would even catch him watching “When you’re in a re- “When you’re in a relation- “At least for me, this relation- her sometimes. ship, you think about the other ship has been a real confdence It was Feb. 9, 1973, when lationship, you think “She was the prettiest girl I’d person and how your decisions booster,” Batcher said. “I feel Buddy Johnson, now director ever seen,” Buddy said. about the affect them,” said Ashley much more confdent than I did of Troy University’s Broadcast The future couple were both Abrams, an education major when I came to college.” and Digital Network, and Dr. other person and a part of Troy’s Collegiate from Montgomery who was a “If it weren’t for you, I Theresa M. Johnson, senior how your decisions Singers. senior in the spring. “It’s nice wouldn’t have been able to come lecturer and director of develop- afect them.” having someone you can always out to my parents,” Nelson said ment in the English Department, One day, the group sang go to and depend on.” to Batcher. had their frst date. “Happy Birthday” to Buddy, and — Ashley Abrams afterward, he asked, “Can I walk Relationships can also help Other couples see them They were students just you to class?” Theresa said. students grow as individuals. holding hands and stop to ask He argues that he did pick starting on their career paths, She corrected his grammar for Having people around whom whether they’re dating. her up; they never fell, nor but they weren’t the frst or the using “can” instead of “may,” you care about discourages “It’s weird how you fnd out did he drop her. He also last to build lifelong relation- responding: “I don’t know. I’m selfsh behaviors. how many more queer people remembers the meal differently. ships with people they met in not going to be late, and I’m not there are in the dorm, once college. sure you can keep up with me.” “It was a fabulous Italian Not good to be alone you’re the other one,” Nelson Buddy Johnson was from meal,” Buddy said. A romantic relationship said. Pensacola, Florida, and Theresa 11 inches of snow After that “day when hell froze provides the opportunity for Populus described college Mount was from Brantley. She A few days later, it began over,” as she described it, the people to share life events and as “a crazy time,” sometimes saw him for the frst time when to snow. There were about 11 couple continued dating. They can prepare students for the “tough,” when a student learns she was a high schooler visiting inches of snow on the ground, married on March 16, 1974. give-and-take of marriage, more about herself but also Troy State University — the and the university shut down at Students tend to build lifelong said Dusty Taylor, the student needs friends. school’s name then. He was per- noon. bonds while in college, said minister at Troy First United “It’s nice just having someone forming in the school’s musical They walked out of class Shelby Populus, a sophomore in Methodist Church. to be there to talk to you about production of “Camelot.” together, and he offered to carry the spring and a criminal justice “ ‘The Lord God said, ‘It is not whatever you’re going through her through the snow so that major from Mobile. good for the man to be alone. I is costume ft his character, because it’s not always about she wouldn’t ruin her boots, but will make a helper suitable for she said. She said some of her current having people to go out with, they fell, said Theresa. relationships started in high him,’ ” Taylor said, quoting but having someone to hang out “I said to my best friend, ‘That She added that he also offered school and have followed her Genesis 2:18. with, and let them know that guy looks like the devil himself, to cook for their group of to college, while others were Courtney Batcher, an anthro- you’re there,” she said. but he has good-looking legs,’ ” friends. So they all waited out formed by meeting new people pology major from Ariton, and “Don’t lose yourself in your Theresa Johnson remembered. the snow and endured his awful in classes, at social events and C. Nelson, a graphic design relationships. But I do think She never imagined that she cooking at his apartment. through mutual friends. major from Pike Road, have they are a good thing because if would see him again. But after However, Buddy remembers Others agree that college is been dating for more than a year. you have a healthy relationship, beginning her college career, the sequence of events a little an opportunity to develop new Both were sophomores in the it can help you become a better she found herself interacting differently. relationships and strengthen spring. They met at Spectrum person.” Page 10 Tropolitan, Summer 2017 Diverse cultures unite on campus Sinclair Portis ativity work to make the double major from Wewa- “Dean Reeves goes campus comfortable to hitchka, Florida, who was through a lot,” Sherman When she arrived at every student. a senior in the spring. said, referring to Dean of Troy University, Jessica Joe McCall, history “Many of my closest Student Services Herbert Edwards, like many other senior lecturer and adviser friends are from places Reeves. “He works really students, was afraid of for ISCO, experienced the like Saudi Arabia, China, hard, basically, to make what was to come. diversity growth over the Vietnam, Turkmenistan, sure that we do feel safe, “My freshman year, years and sees even more South Korea, Guyana and and I think that’s really I was like ‘Oh, my room for change. Ghana.” awesome. … I know we goodness, I don’t know “Every year we celebrate Another club that can trust him if we have if I’m going to ft in Dr. King’s life with a provides a safe space any problems.” here,’ ” said Edwards, a service at the chapel, and to get to know people The NAACP, a civil social work major from … what I’ve seen change is Spectrum Alliance. rights group, volunteers Tuscaloosa who was a in the last 11 years is that This club allows those of around the community and junior and vice president the composition of the different sexualities and campus and helps people of the NAACP in the crowd at that gathering genders to come together of color succeed. spring. included white fraternity and talk about their expe- “I work at the admis- “But honestly, as the and sorority kids, Afri- riences and problems. sions offce and like years progressed, I love can-American kids, inter- “Well, what’s the fun giving tours,” said Jessica Troy. I’ve witnessed and national kids and plain old in everyone being the Edwards. “A lot of new made relationships with domestic American white Sinclair Portis photo same?” said Carleigh students will come in all types of people.” kids,” McCall said. Multicultural students play poker during a game Sherman, business major and tour, and they’ll Students fear meeting He was referring to night in the Trojan Center on Feb. 7, 2017. from Tulsa, Oklahoma, say: ‘Gosh, I see people new people, not only civil rights leader Martin like one,” said Shreya Country Night, where and president of Spectrum talking to everyone. It’s because they are strangers, Luther King Jr. Thumma, a computer students describe their Alliance. Sherman was a like everyone’s talking to but because they are from Troy has many clubs science major from cultures for others to learn. sophomore in the spring. everybody.’ ” all different walks of life. that let students get to Hyderabad, India, who “As a girl from a small, The group practices “We have an incredibly Troy University’s orga- know one another and was a freshman in the rural town in the South, making a safe environ- diverse campus,” McCall nizations like Spectrum others like themselves. spring. it has been so eye-open- ment for all members of said. Alliance, International “It’s great seeing mul- ISCO works to bring ing and heartwarming to the student body. The “... How many American Student Cultural Organi- tiethnic people from culture from around the meet people from around campus has four sin- kids are friends with zation, NAACP and many different countries in one world to the students on the world,” said Shelby gle-stall restrooms in Chinese kids, how many more groups involving university, and the good campus. It holds events Wood, a social science Trojan Center that are Korean kids are friends politics, religion and cre- thing is everybody feels like Tea for Troy and education and Spanish gender-neutral. with kids from Den mark?” International programs thrive and expand Sarah Blain constantly pushing them out into plans to continue school and the community,” Schmurr-Stew- receive a master’s degree at a The international com- art said. different school in America. munity at Troy University Troy’s various exchange “After I graduate, I think I has seen growth in programs programs determine how long will miss Troy and my American and students, said Darlene students spend on campus. For friends and family,” Yuan said. example, the 1-2-1 program is Schmurr-Stewart, dean of inter- There are six campus organi- a dual-degree program where national student services. zations focused on international each student spends one year in er offce deals with recruit- students: Chinese Student and his home country, two years at ment and admissions for inter- cholars Association CA, Troy University, and one year national students and services Indian Student Association back in the home country. to them, including academic IA, epal tudent Associa- advocacy and immigration Botian Yuan, a general tion A, audi tudent As- issues. business major from Shiji- Sarah Blain photo Timilehin Osituyo (left), a graduate student studying inter- sociation A, ietnamese The offce helps students azhuang, China, who was a tudent Association A and from the frst weeks on campus senior in the spring, spent one national relations from Ogun State, Nigeria, gets advice about school from Darlene Schmurr-Stewart, dean of International Student Cultural — making sure they have the year at a Chinese college and rganization IC. correct documentation, setting has been a student on Troy’s international student services. Joe McCall, senior history up bank accounts, fnding main campus for three years. “Different people have different and Los Angeles, but he has lecturer and faculty adviser for housing and going grocery Yuan said one of the hard accents. Some talk slow, and found people the South to be shopping. things at frst was the nglish ISCO, said ISCO was started some talk fast. I cannot catch friendlier. about 26 years ago by inter- “We basically become language. up.” national students to foster whatever it is they need through “We learn English in China, “When I walk on the campus, their home base while we are but it is basic things,” Yuan said. Yuan has visited New York people greet me,” he said. He See International, Page 12 Tropolitan, Summer 2017 Page 11 UAC organizes social events for students Movies, outdoor activities, other occasions to relax, make friends Josiah Askew was a senior in the spring. “It was a lot of people Many students arrive falling, but I know how to at Troy University not skate.” knowing anyone, but “I like casino night,” campus events allow them said Ariana Han, an adver- to congregate in healthy tising major from Tianjin, social settings where China, who was a junior in they can make friends — the spring. “It teaches you settings provided through how to make money.” the University Activities Han did not win her Council. game but was not upset “It is an opportunity for because the game is played students to meet in a fun using fake money. environment,” said Audrey The UAC also offers a Carpenter, the UAC public feld trip once a semester relations chair and a social to Butter and Egg Adven- work major from Dothan tures, an outdoor aerial who was a sophomore in theme park near campus. the spring. “We take groups of “The students to the park once majority of a semester our events “It is an for fun,” are free, opportunity for Carpenter excluding said. “It is dollar movie students to meet a really big night,” in a fun envi- hit with in- Josiah Askew photo Carpenter ronment . . . The ternational Audrey Carpenter (left), University Activities Council public relations chair, and Dekorrius Johnson, said. “This students.” dollar night movie coordinator, working in the Trojan Center. is done to majority of our B u t t e r maximize and Egg which is the university’s involve- events are free, Adven- orientation, also experi- ment from excluding dollar tures offers ence the camp. the students movie night.” zip lines, a “When students arrive who are on a 7-acre lake on campus, they are budget.” — Audrey for boating, bombarded with learning n the frst Carpenter fshing and how the school operates,” Wednesday a water Carpenter said. of every month, the UAC slide. partners with Continental Other ground-based “Getting their classes, Cinema 5, the local movie recreation includes laser making sure dorms are theater, allowing students combat on a battlefeld, arranged, fnancial aid, and with university IDs access human foosball, mini- not to mention learning a to watch movies for only golf, archery and ropes for new campus can be over- $1. children. whelming, so the univer- (Late in spring semester, “I was scared to zip-line, sity provides the trip to an increase in the price so I just played laser tag,” students as a way for them — perhaps to $2 — was said Angel Amerson, a to have fun, relax and being considered.) mathematics major from establish connections.” The university provides Birmingham who was a The UAC meets every shuttles to all sponsored freshman in the spring. Monday at 5 p.m. in Room events that are off campus. “The park is really 212 of the Trojan Center. Laser tag, skate night safe,” said Susan Pierce, and casino night are other a retired Troy University “Come out to the events sponsored by the student services employee meeting to stay up to date UAC. and owner of Butter and with campus events,” “I really enjoyed skate Egg Adventures. “We’ve Carpenter said. “And night,” said Kendra had no serious injuries joining is really easy. The Rhodes, an informa- since we opened.” more meetings you attend, tion systems major from Troy University students the closer you are to being Augusta, Georgia, who who attend IMPACT, a part of the UAC team.” Page 12 Tropolitan, Summer 2017 Freshman 15? Not using this meal plan International From page 10 Alex Collier Troy University requires a sophomore in the spring, relationships and connec- all on-campus residents said that in high school tions between internation- he was like many high to purchase a meal plan. he was consumed with al students and domestic school athletes who didn’t These meal plans come in sports, but the minute he students. receive college scholar- the forms of e points, came to college, he gained “The goal now with ships to play sports. Her for retail locations on 30 pounds. ISCO is to serve as an early-morning workouts campus, and meals in “It was an eye-open- umbrella organization to turned into sleeping in on Trojan ining. ing eperience for me, all the different national- her day off from classes. Trojan ining, Troy inford said. “College ities on campus,” McCall Her diet didn’t handle her niversity’s dining hall, became so stressful and said, “and try to bring lifestyle. is open from 7 a.m. to 7 time-consuming that the those people together with “And then — it p.m. on weekdays and freshman 15 became the our domestic students.” happened,” said Marie serves breakfast, lunch freshman 35 for me. McCall said ISCO is Lopez, an exercise science and dinner. “As a freshman, you see not just for internation- major from irmingham oar’s ead eli and the pizza and fries every al students, but also for who was a senior in the Moe’s Southwest Grill, day and forget that they domestic students. spring. “I became a part of which close at midnight, have healthier options that In the last fve years, the most hated topic, the are both located in the you can eat from, too.” IC has seen a growth of infamous freshman 15.” dining hall building. ichael onderly, attendees at its meetings. She wanted to take a The Trojan Center director of operations for At the beginning of fall more hands-on approach Food Court which is open Troy ining ervices, semester 2016, there with her exercise science from breakfast to dinner, said the dining hall offers were 100 to 150 students, major, so she started with includes a coffee and healthy options for the according to cCall. bagel store, a sandwich herself and was successful students to choose from. McCall explained that place, a Chinese restau- in losing weight. “uch of the weight during IC nights, rant, and Chick-fl-A. gain students face is when students present different “I’ve lost over 50 ut all they come cultures on any given pounds since coming to d i n i n g “The freshman 15 from high topic, including descrip- Troy in 2012,” Lopez said. options school tions of customs, dress, Eric Dunn, an instructor can be became the fresh- Justin Blowers photo and have food, contemporary at CrossFit Ilium and Troy purchased Lydia Gilmer, an English major from Chelsea man 35 for me.” l i m i t e d cultures and history. University alumnus, said using cash who was a freshman in the spring, getting a when you get to college, — Brandon Binford options “I used to want to change or card as and are salad from The Wild Mushroom, the salad bar in you don’t have a parent well. Trojan Dining. the world big, cCall telling you what to eat. so used to said. “Not anymore. I just “In high school, you “As a freshman, you consuming those options a salad bar where they can “e do everything in our want to change a little have your parents as a become overwhelmed that they don’t broaden grill chicken in front of you. power to help the students corner, and ISCO is a guiding light, telling you with school, and adjusting their horizon, onderly onderly said that Troy make great choices, but sweet little corner of the to a new atmosphere, ‘Don’t eat this’ and ‘Don’t said. offers a dining hall app we can’t make them eat world of people getting to eat that,’ ” Dunn said. “Yet many take to food as onderly said the called ite by odeo for know each other.” comfort,” Dunn said. the choices we provide for when you have a buf- dining hall offers healthier smartphones, in which them, onderly said. helby ood, a fet-style caf, it’s hard not randon inford, a alternatives for students. students can see the daily Spanish and social to gorge yourself on things computer science major “e offer agellan, menu and the calorie To see dining hall menus, science education double you’re not supposed to.” from Huntsville who was which is stir-fry we have intake for each meal. visit troydining.com. major from ewahitch- ka, Florida, who was a senior in the spring, served as ISCO’s president Troy University welcomes a new sorority: AOPi beginning in April . Hannah Stone decision, according to arbara in fall . After the frst round, A meeting place for the new ood said it was a Patterson, director of student which is the philanthropy days, sorority has not been determined. pleasant experience involvement. the sorority will drop out of re- Patterson said she hopes all so- because IC is a great The Troy University Greek organization that has “I think Ai will be a great cruitment week, Patterson said. rorities will receive new houses system will expand in the fall of been inuential on the addition to the Troy University AOPi’s recruitment will within one year of AOPi’s arrival. 2017 when Alpha Omicron Pi Troy University campus, Panhellenic community because continue three to four weeks after The new sorority will bring new joins the fve eisting anhellenic bridging the gap between they have such a strong alumni classes begin. omen from the traditions, a new philanthropy sororities. domestic and international and fnancial support as well as a Ai national offce will be on and numerous leadership oppor- A new sorority was needed students. commitment from their national campus, attending events. tunities, according to atterson. because of growth in the reek omen from the national It will present “an opportunity “I have met so many system. headquarters,” said Emma Turner, an exercise science major offce, along with national for lots of women to immediate- amazing people and made The new sorority was chosen from Huntsville and a sophomore offcers, will then interview the ly take on leadership roles within so many great friends through a three-year process. in the spring. women whom they consider pro- their chapter,” Patterson said — from countries around the Representatives of three so- spective members during their “because they are going to pledge, world, ood said. “I have rorities visited the campus and he attended the competing last week at Troy. and all of a sudden they are going also had the opportunity to presented what they could offer sorority presentations. They will make a selection of to become the president, and the improve my leadership, Troy. A committee of student AOPi will participate in the the frst women and have a bid new member educator and the teamwork and communi- sorority women made the diffcult frst round of sorority recruitment day for the new members. treasurer.” cation skills.” Tropolitan, Summer 2017 Page 13 University’s history goes back to 1887 Main campus has 6 colleges, schools; services support student life, academics Sarah Blain Emirates. Incoming students are encouraged Troy University turned 130 years old to “test the waters” when it comes to on Feb. 24, 2017, and one of its current getting involved with Troy’s many clubs slogans echoes the founding charter: and organizations, according to the dean “educate the mind to think, the heart to of student services, Herbert Reeves. feel, and the body to act.” Reeves said student involvement on The Alabama Legislature established campus caters to all types of students and Troy State Normal School in February is growing every year. 1887. The State Board of Education Reeves works with the Student changed the school’s name in 1929 to ervices offce, which provides services Troy State Teachers College after the ranging from housing to recreational and Jeff Herring photo school started to grow. sports organizations. A couple of Troy students show their love for the university at the fountain and statue on the main quad. After the college was granted power to Reeves said any student can come to award baccalaureate and master’s degree the tudent ervices offce to see what director of student engagement for Trojan could beneft from. programs, the college was renamed Troy services are available and learn policies Café, explained that before the website “We saw that there were holes in our State University on Dec. 14, 1967. and procedures. was established, there were issues con- connective tissue and student support The board of trustees renamed the “They joined the Troy family,” necting online students to the university. systems, and we knew we could do university without “State” included in Reeves said. “If they are “We also were not providing much better,” Smothers said. the title, and it became having issues — whether guidance on how to do well in the online The center publishes articles written Troy University in August “We saw that it is personal issues or education environment, nor were we by students, faculty, staff and contribu- 2005. The renaming of the academic issues, I don’t providing support toward career oppor- tors that range from online career explo- school united all campuses there were holes know — we can’t always tunities,” Smothers said. ration to drafting the perfect resume. and sites, such as those in in our connec- solve them, but we at least A small group of Troy Online staff “We love, love, love publishing Montgomery, Dothan and tive tissue and try to help them.” members proposed an online student something inspirational from or about Phenix City. success center that originally was to aid Troy students or faculty,” Smothers said. Troy has accredited The ffce of tudent In- student support volvement and Leadership online students, but included information “We love to spotlight students, faculty associate, baccalaureate, that both in-class and online students and staff in a variety of ways.” master’s, education spe- systems, and we is associated with Greek cialist and doctoral degree knew we could life, Freshman Forum, programs. Leadership Scholars, do better.” Who’s Who, Welcome The colleges and schools Week, voter registration, on the home campus in — Amanda traffc appeals and tradi- Troy, Alabama, include Smothers tional events on campus. College of Arts and Sciences, Sorrell College Troy Online has 19 of Business, College of Communication degree programs for undergraduates and Fine Arts, College of Education, and 23 for graduate students. Many College of Health and Human Services, on-campus students take online courses and Graduate School. to help meet their degree requirements. Collectively in 2016, the university had On Jan. 10, U.S. News and World an enrollment of 18,393. This includes Report released a ranking of its “2017 all campuses worldwide and online, and Best Online Programs,” which recog- it is approximately 9 percent higher than nized Troy for its bachelor’s program as 2015’s enrollment, according to Insti- well as its Master of Business Adminis- tutional Research, Planning and Effec- tration and other graduate programs in tiveness. Since 1966, Troy has offered non-MBA business courses, education degree programs in many locations in the and criminal justice. United States and the world. “The most rewarding aspect of com- As of fall 2015, Troy through its history pleting a class online or a full academic had graduated about 148,864 students — program online is the skill set that is residents of all 50 United States and at developed by the students to not only least 50 countries. learn the academic material but to master According to Loretta Clark, an admin- the ability to prioritize and persist,” said istrative assistant in the ffce of Alumni Ronnie Creel, senior director and dean of Affairs, in 2016 the alumni mostly came Troy Online student services. from Alabama, Georgia and Florida. Trojan Café (trojancafe.com) is a There were 1,749 alumni from other product of Troy Online that was estab- countries in 2016, who mainly hailed lished in August 2014. from Vietnam, China and United Arab Amanda Smothers, the assistant Page 14 Tropolitan, Summer 2017 More than one way to get to class Mistakes From page 1 Justin Blowers group, makes walking easier. Olivia Melton, Student Government Association “It’s just relaing, he president for -, said she sees a big difference in Living off Troy Univer- the students who are involved on campus and those who sity’s main campus comes said. “It saves money, too, in multiple ways. are not. with challenges. “Freshman year is a time to build up a good reputa- One of these is getting Morgan Hillman, a tion because it will follow you throughout your years at to class. Some students do mathematics major from Troy, elton said. not drive cars. Geneva who was a senior elton was an IACT leader, Freshman Forum Alternative forms in the spring, ran to class director and Chi Omega sister, among other activities of transportation help after being dropped off beginning in her freshman year. students who don’t have by the Troy niversity cars or those who do not shuttle. Many opportunities want the hassle of fnding Hillman said he likes Melton encourages freshmen to get involved in any parking. However, each taking the transit system way they can, whether that is attending the football alternative form has pros because it always shows games, becoming a Conversation artner with an inter- and cons. up. However, he said that national student, attending the Baptist Campus Ministry, or going Greek. She said these things can help students Jamillah Bell, a music the shuttles do not show make friends and gain valuable eperiences. major from Montgomery up at the same times every “A lot of people will meet their friend group freshman who was a sophomore in day. year and just stay there, elton said. “pand and the spring, walked out of “Sometimes it will show meet as many people as possible through the different class to the flled bicycle up late, and I’ll be late for organizations on campus because freshman year is rack to retrieve her bike. class, he said. when you will have the most time for it, and you might Bell said that she would Hillman said taking the gain friends you’ll keep for life. recommend riding a shuttles saves gas money elton said she was so busy getting involved and bike over driving even and means he does not engaging with campus activities that she didn’t spend though the campus isn’t have to look for parking. enough time with friends. “bike-friendly. He said you need to plan “on’t miss the late-night movie nights, elton “iking keeps me ftter ahead if you use the transit said. “o to onic at a.m., go on random road trips and gets me to class faster system. that is what freshman year is about. than driving, ell said. “I “It’s not good if you say, r. al Fulmer, dean of frst-year studies, said it is have thighs and buns of most important for freshmen to start immediately living steel now. ey, I have a class in minutes and need to get on the “Trojan ay and learning success skills. But Bell said that out there,’ illman said. “our Trojan family etends uite literally all around common problems with the world, Fulmer said. “Taking advantage of every- biking are congested Derrick Brewster, thing Troy niversity offers is part of the Trojan ay. sidewalks, not enough assistant dean of student Fulmer said there are many ways to get engaged bike racks and rainy services and head of trans- beyond just reek life, such as being a Conversation days. She did add that not portation services, said the Partner, helping hungry children in the community, having to look for parking transit system consists of supporting sustainability projects around town such as and the reliable travel time Justin Blowers photo fve routes with shuttles gardening and recycling, and taking on social issues coming about every fve make up for the problems Jamillah Bell, a music major from Montgomery like anti-bullying. of biking, in her opinion. minutes. who was a sophomore in the spring, unlocking ffce of ivic ngagement She said she prefers her bike in front of Patterson Hall after getting He recommended down- loading the TransLoc Fulmer advised students to inuire with the ffce of riding a bike over taking out of class. Civic ngagement, in ldridge all , for more in- the shuttle bus because Rider app so that you “I’ve had a lot more farther than a mile and a formation on how to get involved on campus. she can leave whenever will know when a bus is problems with driving, half. “A student who is involved is a successful student, she wants if she bikes, coming. to be honest, he said. “You can do that in 20 almost always, Fulmer said. “eing involved helps and biking, in her opinion, This app, for Android “Paying $75 for not having minutes, and after a while you be successful in the classroom and beyond. is more reliable than the phones and iPhones, tracks a guaranteed parking spot carrying those books and e said students should go beyond hanging out with shuttle. the shuttles and provides is very frustrating. On top stuff gets old, he said. the students they know from their hometowns. real-time updates. “ostly it’s fne you of that, you If you “oing home on the weekends is fne, but it isn’t knowuntil it’s not, ell feel good “Biking keeps me like to go Brewster said TransLoc epanding your circle and making most of the univer- said. is now available, allowing walking; it tte a et me home and sity, Fulmer said. “niversities are where people meet Brigham Schellinger, helps you come back a student to request a ride lifetime friends. a political science major wake up. t ca ate to school from campus to home and Kristin Lange, a nursing major from Gardendale who from obile who was a Schell- tha .” throughout vice versa from 5 p.m. to was a senior in the spring, said random roommates senior in the spring, rested inger said the day, 10 p.m. could turn into great friendships, though she did not e- in Trojan Center for a few that the — Jamillah Bell he does “If you’re really looking perience that herself. minutes before class after only big not recom- for a safe ride, you can “I regret not fully appreciating freshman year because his 15-minute walk to problem mend reuest to be picked up now I’m in nursing school, and all I do is study, ange school. with walking is when it walking. He also said that from the library and taken said. “njoy the friends you make as a freshman. Then Schellinger said he rains. And he would not having a place to recover to the dorm if you don’t go out on the weekends and make more. You will look has never had a problem recommend walking to on campus, whether it be a want to walk in the dark, back on your freshman year and realize that it was the walking to college. campus from any place certain location or a friend Brewster added. most free you’ve ever been. Tropolitan, Summer 2017 Page 15 University is upgrading The march parking, dining, housing, toward academics to prepare 10,000 for 2020 enrollment goal Tori Bedsole student health center. According to Fulmer, According to admin- “That’s high on the list.” the university has enough istrators, upgrades and The university also has classrooms to accom- additions will need to be plans to complete a new modate an increase in made to the Troy campus residence hall by August students, but needs to in areas such as dining, 2018. Currently, the uni- stretch the day, adding housing, parking, staffng versity has the capacity to class times at 3 p.m. or 4 and academics to accom- house only 2,348 students. p.m. modate an increase in “Three locations are Andrew Dearing, a enrollment. under current consider- criminal justice major Chancellor Jack ation for a new residence from Montgomery and Hawkins and the Troy hall,” the document states. the previous Student University Board of According to Dew, Government Association Trustees drafted and one of the prospective vice president of legisla- passed a proposal with the dormitory locations is tive affairs, said there are goal “to have the capacity between the track and the benefts and challenges to to serve 10,000 students new parking lot. consider with the universi- by fall 2020.” ty’s goal. As of fall 2016, the Troy No monster classes “I want to see Troy grow campus enrolled 7,864 Academically, the uni- and have an even more students. versity has “the room to extended Trojan family,” “Consistent growth puts push out,” according to said Dearing, who was a us in a position to be a strong Hal Fulmer, associate junior in the spring. “But institution,” said Herbert provost and dean of frst- the university must make Reeves, dean of student year studies, especially accommodations for the services. “With the growth Nilotpal Mukherjee photo with the availability of students already here. that we’ve seen since I’ve organ ailey left a hic-fl- employee in the Troan enter serves online classes. been here, we really have Virenderit ingh a computer information systems graduate student from “We are committed to Raising standards become a worldwide, inter- udhiana ndia his meal in the spring hic-fl- will be epanded from not having monster class “In order to advance, we national university.” limited service to full service sizes,” Fulmer said. “We must increase tuition. And Not all at once have classrooms that we when this happens, our parking fees, and housing akefeld, a political to be flled in. can tap into.” standards for admission Although the admin- fees,” the document states. science major from Wil- Enrollment increases According to Dew and rise as well. istration envisions this sonville who was a senior Additions to dining will also lead to expanded Fulmer, “managed growth” “Since I’ve been here, increase, it knows the in the spring, said an services include a activity and organiza- will bring the opportunity they have raised admission growth must be steady increase in students would revamping of the Trojan tion offerings on campus, for new programs. and scholarship require- over many years rather make parking worse. Center dining options by according to Dew. “We are already doing ments, and we should than all at once. “Parking is already fall 2017. “We are going to add some interesting things expect to see this again “Growth must be en- terrible, with more Marketplace will be one more sorority (Alpha right now,” Fulmer said. if the student population visioned as a stair-step parking decals sold than removed, Chick-fl-A Omicron Pi), which will “We have begun to develop keeps rising at the rate it process requiring annual spots available, and the will become a full-ser- begin recruitment after some bridge programs so is, which isn’t necessarily absorption of an increas- spots that are not used vice operation, A&W will regular recruitment in the that some of our really a bad thing. ing student population,” are far away, which is in- be replaced with a Steak fall,” Dew said. good students, in that last “Troy is just raising the document states. convenient because that ’n Shake (which serves Dew also discussed the semester if they are inter- their standards—which, “Excessive growth in any means a 15-minute walk,” steakburgers and milk- importance of revamping ested in graduate school, long-term speaking, is a one year will create diff- akefeld said. “ith shakes), and the old game the student health center. they can take graduate good thing. Short-term, culties in providing high 10,000 students, that room will be transformed courses for an advanced it can be inconvenient for quality service to students. means we would need to “We are going to make a into a Marble Slab ice master’s degree.” current students.” “Enrollment growth double our parking spots.” few changes by August of cream creamery with ad- this year, but it may take will optimize the use of Troy University existing classrooms and ditional seating, according New parking lot us a year or two for all of campus resources and will to Reeves and other John Dew, senior vice it,” Dew said. enhance student participa- administrators. chancellor of student “We have entered into tion in honors programs, “It (growth) allows you services, said the universi- some discussions with campus organizations, and to expand the offerings and ty planned to have a new some of the hospitals in hts attendance at intercolle- programs that you have,” parking lot completed by the area and with SARHA game nig giate athletic events.” Reeves said. “I think it May or June 2017 that (Southeast Alabama Rural taco increases the support for night s “Many investments would include 600 parking Health Associates) and s ale necessary for enrollment athletics, arts and other ac- spaces. The parking are exploring two or three ke s ...and more! growth will pay for them- tivities on campus.” location is between the different options of what ba selves through fees, such Parking is a concern Trojan Center and the we can do to handle the If you are interested, please email [email protected] as recreation fees, lab fees, for many students. Blain track, where a ravine was capacity of students at the Page 16 Tropolitan, Summer 2017 Military students juggle their duties ROTC cadets, reservists must also fnd time for class, other campus activities Nathaniel Rodriguez

For Cadet 1st Sgt. Ashli Morris, being a part of the Army eserve ffcers’ Training Corps at Troy niversity is both rewarding and a challenge. Morris, who was a junior international politics major from Athens in the spring 2017 semester, had to manage being a regular student alongside fulfll- ing her responsibilities as a frst sergeant, which included facili- tating communication from her superiors to other cadets. “The description of my role is making sure that every cadet involved in the program knows Chase Ingram & Nathaniel Rodriguez photos where they need to be, what At left, Cadet 1st Sgt. Ashli Morris learns about they need to wear and what a Chinook helicopter during an Army ROTC equipment they need to have visit to Fort Rucker in February 2017. Above, when they’re there, she said. ir Force T adet ason ubose fes This, coupled with her fellow Cadet Casey Brumbloe’s uniform involvement on campus, during inspection. consumes time. SGA president “It was on a Friday, and (a class he was, after all, elected in the spring as the 2017-18 assignment) was supposed president of the Student Gov- to be due on Sunday night. ernment Association. But Morris said the most But for me, I had drill diffcult part of the TC that Friday. I didn’t get back program is the physical training in the morning, which can make until Sunday night ...” the days long and tiring. — Reservist Brandon Grantham “Fortunately for me, I did come into the program as a freshman, so I’ve had plenty of time to adjust and kind of fgure naval base in Florida to work as time for me to do it. “I think teachers view TC eterans’ Alumni Association, out a good balance as to how I a construction mechanic for two espite these challenges, cadets as an in-between from a veteran success on campus need to manage my time during weeks out of the year and to par- there is support for military on maybe someone who is a student counselor and visiting epart- the day so that I can get sleep at ticipate in monthly drills. campus. athlete … and a little bit more ment of eterans Affairs A than a student who, let’s just say, counseling services, said Capt. night, she said. These two-day drills force For example, Grantham said Grantham to work around his is involved in a couple organiza- anielle ankey, director of the “For some cadets who come in cases like his, etensions college schedule, although tions on campus. Troy for Troops Center. in their sophomore or junior can be given so long as there there are times when his job on year and are already in their is proof that the student was on As for social engagement and “We also liaison with all base conicts with his course major classes, that is a very active duty at the time. resource accessibility, the Troy campus departments and have assignments. tough adjustment. for Troops Center provides a teamed with the Career ervices eanwhile, TC students computer lab and lounge that owever, cadets are not the Drill vs. homework who are gone for training events department to offer resume military students can use freely. writing and interview skills only military students who face “A couple weeks ago, one of receive ecuses for their classes, It’s located inside the Trojan workshops. challenges. For students like my professors gave like an on- although orris said teachers Center. Brandon Grantham of Brantley line-type thing to do over the are not always as sympathetic Financial aid is provided to who are in the reserves, being in weekend, rantham said. to TC students as they are to Lounge, computer lab both reserve students and TC the military is also a job. “It was on a Friday, and it was students who are in the reserves. “In addition to our student cadets who ualify, but orris Grantham, who was a junior supposed to be due on Sunday “For many of those people lounge and computer lab, we said that’s not why she is going athletic training major during night. But for me, I had drill that in reserves, they are actively offer two student organizations into military life. the spring of 2017, is a member Friday. serving right now, and for us, we tudents eterans Associa- “For me, I would say it’s a of the Navy Federal Reserves, “I didn’t get back until unday just look like college students, tion and AT a nationally lot more of being able to serve which reuires him to go to a night, so there really wasn’t any Morris said. recognized honor society a others, she said.