Adult and Commuter Connection Jan/Feb Newsletter

Adult & Commuter Connection

ISSUE 4 - VOL 8 - JAN/FEB 2011

THE MONTHLY UNIVERSITY NEWSLETTER OF MEMPHIS FOR ADULT ADULT ANDAND COMMUTER COMMUTER STUDENT STUDENT SERVICES SERVICES

INSIDE THIS ISSUE: BACK ON TRACK • P.2 THE SPOTLIGHT • P.3 UPCOMING EVENTS • P.4 VALENTINE’S DAY • P.6 NEW YEAR TIPS • P.8

Connect:

The Truth about Cyber-bulling Today is a typical day. You decide to log on to your favorite social networking site like you always do. In your inbox you find several new messages. To your surprise, as you read through each message, you discover they all contain some kind of negative and derogatory comment about your TEN a YEARS character. You have just become victimOF of cyber-bulling.

COME COMEVISIT VISITUS! US! Rm RM243 243in inthe the University University Center– Center–Student Student Involvement Involvement Zone Zone

Cyber-bullying works very similar to faceto-face bullying and can produce some of the same effects on victims such as retaliation and isolation.

“Just like other bullies, cyber-bullies may choose a vulnerable student who is differSERVICE ent in some way and then make fun of them for that difference,” Hancock said.

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“Cyber-bullying can be sending photos from the phone, sending text messages, or To learn more about cyber-bullying making new Facebook pages in order to to pg. 7 make fun ofHLaYperson,” MO NT EVENT S: Hancock said. “It EXH IBcontinue IT IO NS: Tremuluso lorem ssicircum Tremuluso lorem ssicircum can start as a joke that goes on too long orimputat caesar parsimonia. imputat caesar parsimonia. becomes too serious.”

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Back on Track The University of Memphis is letting the community know it is never too late to finish your college degree through the “Back on Track” program. The “Back on Track” program is a campus-wide initiative to help individuals return to the university to finish their education.

Betty Huff, Vice President of Enrollment Services, is an advocate for the “Back on Track” program and believes these students have great potential to succeed at the university level.

“These aren’t students who were in academic trouble,” Huff said. “These are students who were doing fine, but for whatever reason decided to put their degree on hold. We just want to create an easy flow for them to finish.”

An open house for the “Back on Track” program will be held on February 10 in the University Center to provide information to students who are interested in finishing their college education.

“The open house will provide valuable resources for them,” Huff said. “There will be academic advisors, people from financial aid, individuals from admissions, and from student offices like Adult and Commuter Student Services.”

“Back on Track” is part of a national movement to increase the number of Americans with college degrees. Many individuals may believe obtaining higher education after a certain number of years in unattainable, but this program challenges those thoughts and provides a platform for college completion.

“This is a national effort from colleges across the country,” Huff said. “We are learning there are so many people who wish they would have finished their degree, and we just want to encourage them to come back.”

For more information on the “Back on Track” program, visit http://www.memphis.edu/backontrack/.

A Moment with the Director

Embrace a New Year The beauty in a new year is that it provides an opportunity for a fresh start.

In 2011, dedicate yourself to sharing your strengths and talents while studying at the university. Strive to achieve any resolutions you have set forth and remember your outlook can determine your outcome.

you will find informative articles about university initiatives such as the “Back on Track” program. If you know someone who would like to finish their college education, invite them to the “Back on Track” information session on February 10 at 5:30pm in the UC River Room.

This month’s newsletter also provides information on Black History Month events organized by Multicultural Affairs, tips on how to celebrate Valentine’s Day on a budget, and the best way to keep those new year resolutions. I hope that you enjoy each article.

This semester, there are a lot of resources available to help you obtain academic success. One way is to stay connected. Get to Lastly, thank you for making Adult and Commuter Student know your professors, take time to read campus e-mails, and Services your home away from home. Have a happy and sucjoin TigerText. cessful 2011.

Take advantage of informational workshops offered in the Sincerely, Joy Stout Adult and Commuter Student Services’ office as well as other student service offices around campus. There are also financial resources available. I want to encourage all non-traditional students who meet the criteria to apply for the 2011-2012 Adult Scholarship.

Additionally, I want to thank you for taking time to read the Adult and Commuter Connection newsletter. In this edition,

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Contact Information Joy Rogers Stout Director, Adult and Commuter Student Services The University of Memphis 243 University Center Voice: (901) 678-2644 E-mail: jstout@memphis.edu

THE SPOTLIGHT Adult student, police lieutenant, and father are all words that describe Marlon Jones, the Adult Student Association’s president for 2011. Yet, who is the man behind all the titles and just why is he passionate about helping adult students.

Before Jones even set foot on the University of Memphis campus, he was a leader.

“I believe leaders are born and I believe I’m a natural born leader,” Jones said.

It’s hard to argue with that comment coming from a young man who helps lead the Bartlett Police department as a lieutenant field commander, demonstrates what it takes to be a father, and still manages to work toward an undergraduate degree in communications.

Now he plans to lend all those leadership skills to ASA. “The main thing that is exciting about being president of ASA is being a leader,” Jones said. “I believe I can lead ASA to new heights.”

Jones is an innovative thinker and has both short and long term goals for the ASA. “I really want to see the organization grow and have more members involved,” Jones said. “I also would eventually like to see a national ASA where we can network and find out exactly what adult students need.”

The partial adult scholarship recipient and junior student is familiar with the needs and challenges of adult students.

“It’s hard to connect with campus,” Jones said. “Traditional students have a little bit more time because they don’t have a child, work full-time, bills or mortgages.”

Yet, Jones makes the connection with the university by making university sponsored activities work for him and his family.

“I make the connection through taking my son to basketball games,” Jones said. “The university allows me to go the basketball games for free and I just pay $10 for my son.”

When Jones mentions his son he lights up just like many other adult students who have families.

One can easily see what motivates him. It is his child.

“I think it’s very important that I am his biggest role model,” Jones said. “I absolutely can’t tell him the benefits of having a degree if I don’t have one myself. I believe you learn from whatever path you take and I just hope he sees me and decides to go off to some great school.”

Jones plans to continue to be a role model to his son and an asset to others after receiving his undergraduate degree by pursing a juris doctorate and practicing law.

Celebrate Black History Month The University of Memphis’ office of multicultural affairs will inspire the community to observe the history of African American culture during Black History Month.

“The national theme this year is AfricanAmericans and the Civil War,” Hall said.

“From there we added a university theme which is Bruised, Battered, but not Broken.”

event rolls into another one up until February 28.

Some event highlights include a student led prayer breakfast, a theatre production of “For As far back as 1991, the university has been The Black History Month festivities will kick Colored Girls”, an “Evening with Soledad hosting several social and educational activi- off with an opening ceremony honoring Life- O’Brien”, several black Greek letter organities in February that commemorate the imtime Achievement Award recipient Judge zation led programs, and the Freedom Ball pact African-Americans have had on society. Bernice Donald. The judge is a graduate of hosted by the local NAACP. Multicultural Affairs coordinator, Linda Hall, the University of Memphis and Cecil C. Each event honors the contributions of Afribelieves this year’s Black History Month Humphreys School of Law. In December, she can Americans and also reflect the achievecelebration will be just as momentous as past was nominated by President Obama for the ments being made by university students. years and is excited about the 2011 theme.

Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals.

According to Hall, all these events promote awareness.

“We ask our committee to consider Memphians that “I believe we need to be made aware of all exemplify what it means groups and their contributions to America,” to give back to the com- Hall said. “African-American history should munity in a big way,” be told not to separate, but for inclusion. We Hall said. “This year we hope these events will bring about awareness ended up with several and education in the process.” outstanding women nominees from the community For a list of all the events taking place during and she was chosen to Black History Month visit receive the award.” http://www.memphis.edu/ multiculturalaffairs/events.htm As soon as the opening and click on the 2011 Black History Month ceremony ends, one calendar.

Black History Month

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Be a part of the Commuter Student Association (CSA)

Visit: memphis.edu/commuterstudents

Upcoming Events Feb 3: CSA General Body Meeting 3pm– Bluff Room in the UC All Students are Welcome!

The Adult and Commuter Student Services will be hosting its annual Off-Campus Housing Information Fair on March 23, 2011 from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. in the University Center Ballroom. This FREE event is open to all students, faculty, and staff who want to obtain information about various housing options in the community.

Stop by to learn more about local apartment communities and how off-campus living just may be right for you! For more info become a fan of our Facebook page, Univ. of Memphis Housing Fair or visit www.memphis.edu/acss.

BE HEARD We ask, You Answer.

<< Why do you like coming to the Adult and Commuter Student Services Office?

Be a part of the Adult Student Association (ASA)

<< I am a commuter, so I like to come here.

Every time you come in it’s peaceful. It’s the type of environment I need to study in. ~Dorrisa Walker, Freshman

Visit: memphis.edu/adultstudents

Upcoming Events Feb 11: Meet Your Members Lunch 1pm– Iris Rm 338 in the UC Lunch will be provided!

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<< I like the people here and the space we have here. I like the computer lab and the free coffee. And Mrs. Stout is always nice. Whenever she has free time, we talk. ~Michael Ssali, Sophomore

<< It’s a place non-traditional students can relax. I use to visit the office when I was an undergraduate student in Wilder Tower, and now I am visiting this office as a graduate student. ~Paul Fischer, Graduate Student

H OME Wondering if school is closed due to inclement weather?

Sign up for TigerText!

The U of M emergency alert text service will automatically text any school closings or delays to your phone.

Sign up today by visiting https://itweb2.memphis.edu/ tigertext/index.php.

Recreation Center Hours Monday– Thursday: 6:30am- 10:30pm Friday 6:30am-9:30pm Saturday 9am-6pm and Sunday 1pm-6pm

Fine Arts Events: An Evening of Opera Feb 8 at 7:30p.m. in Harris Concert Hall U of M Symphony Orchestra Feb 14 at 7:30p.m. in Harris Concert Hall University Singers Feb 27 at 4:30p.m. at Church of Holy Apostles (off campus) The Art Museum at University of Memphis Visit Mon-Sat from 9:00a.m. to 5:00 p.m. to view various ongoing collections and exhibits

G AMES

FEB 6 Women's Basketball East Carolina 1:30 PM FedEx Forum FEB 12 Men's Basketball Southern Miss 5:00 PM FedEx Forum FEB 16 Men's Basketball UAB 6:00 PM FedEx Forum FEB 19 Men's Tennis North Alabama 10:00 AM Memphis

Baseball Evansville 2:00 PM FedEx Park FEB 23 Softball Alabama A&M 2:00 PM Memphis FEB 24 Women's Basketball SMU 7:00 PM Memphis FEB 28 Women's Basketball UAB 2:00 PM Memphis

Student Health Center Hours Mondays, Wednesdays, & Fridays: 8am - 6:00pm & Tuesdays from 9am - 6:00pm

What would you like to see featured in the Adult & Commuter Connection?

E-mail us at: acss@memphis.edu

AROUND CAMPUS: FRIDAY FILM SERIES:

LUNCH AND LEARN:

TIGER W ATCH P ARTY:

STUDY ABRO AD INFO TABLE:

Every Friday from 7:00p.m. to 9:30 p.m. in the UC Theatre

FEB 5 at 7:00 p.m. in UC 320 “U OF M’S GOT TALENT”:

FEB 7 at 7:00 p.m. in the Rose Theatre

FEB 9 from 12:30p.m. to 1:30 p.m. in UC 304

FEB 17 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. UC Atrium

LUNCH W/ A LEADER:

FEB 22 from 12:45 p.m. to 1:30p.m. in UC 340

LOVING AND LETTING GO WORKSHOP by Child Welfare Training Center:

FEB 23 from 5:30p.m. to 8:30 p.m. in UC 338 ANCIENT EGYPT FAMILY DAY:

FEB 26 from 10:00a.m. to 2:00 p.m. in Communications and Fine Arts

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Whether you are single or in a relationship, your Valentine’s Day can be special. From taking someone out on a night on the town to having a girls’ night in, this college student’s guide to Valentine’s Day is full of ideas on how to celebrate the “national day of love” on a budget.

1. Skip the big chain restaurants and try to eat local. Local restaurants may offer special dinner discounts on Valentine’s night.

Also, dining local may provide a less crowded atmosphere and a chance for the two of you to try something new.

2. Check out a free community event. Memphis offers up a few free events in the month of February . Find out what your special someone likes and then check out the Memphis Flyer or a Memphis event calendar for ideas.

3. Enjoy arts and culture together. Local museums, art galleries, and cultural centers are the perfect backdrop for a fun date. The University of Memphis offers students free tickets each semester to various cultural centers like Playhouse on the Square and Ballet Memphis. Visit http://saweb.memphis.edu/uc/infodesk.htm to find out more info.

4. Meet up for coffee or dessert. What is sweeter than some baked treats on Valentine’s Day? Instead of paying for a pricey dinner meet up for a quick snack instead. You still get to spend time with your special someone without breaking the bank on a pricey dinner.

5. Prepare dinner together. Break out the cookbook and try a new recipe. Take a little extra time to set the table and put on something dressy and you have the perfect evening together.

Adapted from : /http://collegelife.about.com/od/dating/a/cheapdateideas.htm

Valentine’s Day is not just for couples. Here are a few do’s and don’ts to help single guys and girls enjoy the holiday.

Do something that makes you feel special.

Whether it’s cooking dinner with friends or taking that new yoga class, do something you enjoy.

Don’t stay home alone.

No need to be sad because you are not hooked up on Valentine’s Day. Get out a meet new people by checking out a local event or volunteering your time.

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Don’t get hung up on the date.

It’s a lot harder to get dinner reservations, plan a movie night, or get tickets the latest play on Valentine’s Day. Try picking another day to celebrate being single. This will ensure you will get to do something fun with yourself or loved ones.

Do mail yourself a gift.

Hey, everyone loves a good gift. Why not send yourself one.

2011-2012 Adult Scholarship Applications are available TODAY!!!

The Adult Scholarship Program is designed to help adult students reach their educational goals. This highly competitive, renewable scholarship is $5,500 per year for full-time students and $3,000 per year for part-time students. The award is given annually to a limited number of students. Students meeting the following criteria are encouraged to apply.

Eligibility Criteria: 1. In-state and out-of-state undergraduate students are eligible.

2. Must be pursuing first undergraduate degree to be eligible.

3. Students must reach their 25th birthday by August 1st of application year.

4. Current students must have a 3.0 cumulative G.P.A. and new students must meet Adult Admission requirements to be considered for selection.

5. Part-time students must complete a minimum of 6 hours and full-time students must complete a minimum of 12 hours per semester.

6. Preference given to students who do not already have a scholarship.

Renewal Requirements: 1. Renewable for up to eight full time or equivalent parttime semesters.

2. Minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.0.

3. Completion of Service hours: 150 hours per academic year for full-time students and 75 hours per academic year for part-time students.

4. Become an active member of the Adult Student Association (ASA).

5. Actively participate in the Adult Scholarship Mentoring Program during your first year on the scholarship.

To learn more, visit our website at memphis.edu/acss.

Scholarships applications are due March 1.

Add the ACSS channel to your MyMemphis Portal and receive cheap gas prices locations and updates.

Go to MyMemphis Portal and click on Content Layout > New Channel > News > Adult and Commuter Student Services Twitter and you are done!

The Truth About Cyber-bullying

Continued from page 1

Looking for certain signs in loved ones can determine whether or not they may be victims of this kind of abuse.

“A child or teenager may be a victim of cyber-bullying if he or she appears nervous or jumpy when an instant message or email appears,” Hancock said. “Also if after using the computer, they appear to be angry, depressed, or frustrated.”

It’s important for victims of cyber-bullying to keep track of the messages they are being sent. This can help if they need to report the pattern of abuse. Also, victims should speak to someone about the abuse.

“With cyber-bullying, the bullying follows you wherever you use your phone, computer, or other technical devices making this type of bullying more invasive,” Hancock said. “Victims should speak to a counselor, trusted friend, or a person of authority, and together, steps can be taken to stop the abuse.”

To find out more about cyber-bullying, come to ACSS’s training seminar on Tuesday, Feb. 15 from 9:40 am–11:05am in UC 261

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Tips for Keeping Your New Year’s Resolutions 1. Start small. It’s okay to aim high, but breaking down one massive goal into smaller goals may help you achieve your overall objective faster.

2. Share your ambitions with others. Telling a family member or a friend about the resolutions you would like to achieve will make you feel more accountable. Also, your loved ones can serve as your support system.

3. Remind yourself, “YOU CAN DO IT.” When things get tough, remind yourself of the goals you have accomplished in the past. This will serve as motivation that you have and you will finish what you set out to do.

Pinnacle Honor Society

4. If you fall, pick yourself back up. With any new challenge, there is a possibility that you may struggle or even stray from your goal. When this happens, don’t give up. It doesn’t matter how long it takes you to obtain what you want to achieve but the fact that you kept at it until you reached success.

5. Celebrate your success. No matter how big or small of an accomplishment you make toward achieving your goal, you should reward yourself.

The reward can be anything from purchasing something that may help you in achieving your goal to giving yourself a simple pat on the back.

Adapted from : //www.ehow.com/how_12076_keep-new-years.html andhttp:// shine.yahoo.com/channel/health/5-tips-to-make-your-new-years-resolutionsreally-stick-2433481

ADULT & COMMUTER STUDENT SERVICES

FUTURE EVENTS

Spring 2011 Training Seminars CYBER BULLYING Tues. Feb 15 from 9:40 am–11:05am in UC 261 UNDERSTANDING LEASING AGREEMENTS Wed. March 16 from 10:20 am–11:15am in UC 261 IDENTITY THEFT-DON’T BE A VICTIM Wed. April 20 from 12:40 pm–2:05pm in UC 261

MISSION

CONTACT AND GENERAL INFORMATION

The mission of the Adult & Commuter Student Services office is to provide a supportive environment for nontraditional and commuter students that promotes intellectual, social and academic growth and development through services and programs that foster lifelong learning.

The Adult and Commuter Student Services office is located on The University of Memphis campus on the 5th floor of Wilder Tower. Our regular hours are 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Monday through Thursday and from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Friday. If you need after hours help, please call us to make arrangements.

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We welcome comments, questions, or suggestions. We can be reached by phone at 901-678-2644 during our regular business hours or after hours leave us a message on voice mail. You may also reach us through e-mail at acss@memphis.edu.