teen
Vision Discipline. Empowerment. Success.
College Options: Beyond the Traditional University Learn about college choices off the beaten path
What Every Teen Needs to Know About SEXTING fall 2009
plus... R.I.P. to the King of Pop Readers remember Michael Jackson’s best moments
Send check to: ReCapturing the Vision 9780 E. Indigo Street, Suite 301 Miami, FL 33157
contents
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departments 4
R.I.P. Michael Jackson
Best of the Web
Twitter isn’t just for grown ups—get the scoop on the best Twitter destinations for teens.
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For Your Health
Learn how you can get fit and stay focused just in time for back-to-school.
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Values Valores
Get educated on the dangers of sexting.
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Impress Yourself
Shake off that summer hangover and get back on your back-to-school grind.
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14 Shoulders, Ears & Hearts When you need advice from someone who’s been there, Shoulders, Ears, and Hearts is the place to turn.
Runway-Ready Fashion for Back-to-School
30 Keeping It Real Learn why getting an education is the best backup plan there ever was.
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features 8
College Options
My Freshman Year
Two first-years reflect on their freshman year at one of the nation’s most prestigious HBCU’s.
10 R.I.P. Michael Jackson The King of Pop’s biggest fans remember his best moments.
15 College Options Today’s college options go way beyond the traditional. This isn’t your parents’ university.
20 Runway-Ready Fashion for Back-to-School
On our Cover: Amanda Tavarez
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Best of the Web
2 teen vision magazine
Ai Miami sets the trend for the hottest looks on campus this season.
editor’s letter
teen
Vision Fall 2009 Crew
Publisher
ReCapturing the Vision, International
Editor-In-Chief
Jacqueline Del Rosario
F
all is my favorite season. The dog days of summer have come to an end and everyone is feeling rejuvenated, ready to get focused and tackle another school year. It’s a time of new beginnings and fresh starts, but all that good feeling can vanish pretty quickly if you don’t have a vision. What’s your plan? What will you set out to accomplish this year? In this Fall’s Back to School issue I pose a challenge to each and every one of you. This school year I want you to define and implement your gameplan as it pertains to getting a college education. Did you know that only twenty-two percent of Floridians have a bachelor’s degree or higher? That’s a little less than 1 in 4. Yet, over the course of a lifetime, a college graduate will earn one million dollars more than someone with just a high school education. That can mean a significant difference in lifestyle. So while you may fantasize about having the nice car and the big house, if you don’t have a college education it’s likely that you’ll only live out that lifestyle in your dreams. The best thing about crafting your college plan is that there is literally a world of options to choose from. Maybe a traditional 4-year university isn’t for you. This issue sheds light on other college options beyond the mainstream. Inside we’ll introduce you to a few of Florida’s best community colleges, online programs, design schools, and HBCUs. We’ll also let you know where to get started researching those schools and what it’s like to be a student on those campuses. While the sheer number of college options can be overwhelming, take heart in the knowledge that there’s something out there just for you. We lost an icon this summer, and inside these pages our readers remember the King of Pop. We also give you the lowdown on the best Twitter destinations for teens and educate you on the darkside of digital behavior in an article on “Sexting” and its consequences. As you gear up for back to school, say goodbye to summer crushes, and reunite with old friends, I want you to remember that you’re in the driver’s seat when it comes to your future. So put the pedal to the medal and let it ride! Wishing you well,
Jacqueline Del Rosario
President, ReCapturing the Vision Managing Editor
Adrinda Kelly
Graphic Designer
Tiffany N. Castillo
Photography
Amanda Langford
Photoshoot Director Camisa Townsend Fashion Spread
Sandy Maranesi
Makeup Contributors
Kristy Apostol
Aaron Alexander Desiree Davis
Natasha Fairweather
Robert Franek
Camisa Townsend
Iyesha Zigler
Special Thanks
The Recycled Closet
Ai Miami International University of Art & Design
ReCapturing the Vision, International
Funding for this project was provided by the United States Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Children and Families. Grant No. 90FEXXXX. Any opinions, findings, and conclusions or recommendations expressed in this material are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the United States Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Children and Families.
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best on the web
Best Tweets for Teens
Twitter isn’t just for grown-ups. Learn how you can make tweeting work for you
by Kristy Apostol
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College Tweets: Thinking about college? Why not follow your schools of interest on Twitter? Much more upto-date and funny than a blog, college Twitter posts give you a glimpse of what life will really be like on campus. You can even trade tweets with students on campus. Twitter Deals: Everyone loves a bargain, especially with the economy in such a rut. Follow your favorite stores on Twitter and get access to great discounts before everyone else. Radio shows often announce promotions and prizes via Twitter. Follow your favorite radio station and you might end up with front-row tix at the next Summer Jam! Celeb Twitter: Celebrities tweet. . .a lot. And while the stuff they tweet about may be more than you ever wanted to know about your favorite pop star, at the very least you will be entertained. Kanye West and Solange Knowles always make for a good Twitter break. tv
New from Micros
oft...
Microsoft OneApp is a new technology that unlocks the potential of feature phones in emerging markets. The software allows customers to access applications such as Twitter, Facebook and Windows Live Messenger. Learn more at http://www. microsoft.com/oneapp
So very cool!
phone credit: prnewsfoto/microsoft corp.
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f you haven’t been living under a rock for the last few months, then you’ve probably heard of Twitter. Twitter is a free social-networking service that enables its users to send and read messages known as tweets. Tweets are text-based posts of up to 140 characters displayed on the author’s profile page and delivered to the author’s subscribers who are known as followers. If you’ve ever tried to send a text message and had to cut it short due to character restrictions, then you’ve already got the idea behind Twitter: when it comes to “tweets” pithy reigns supreme. The tech world is all “a-twitter” about teens and their Twitter traffic. According to Graham Brown from Mobile Youth, “Under 25s now constitute 25% of twitter usage – the largest single age group.” But questions have been raised about what percentage of that number is 13-17 vs. 18-25 year-olds. More than one social networking expert has suggested that as long as teens can update their status via MySpace and Facebook for their friends as well as IM and text, Twitter doesn’t really add to the existing technology. What is it about Twitter that teens find less-thanappealing? When I first heard of Twitter, I must confess I was like, “What’s the point?’ I mean, who really cares about reading snippets of your daily life? But the good news is that there’s more to Twitter than just obsessive self-promotion and constant surveillance. Twitter is a great destination for everything from good reads to free stuff. Here’s a breakdown of the best tweets for teens: Twitterature: Imagine if your favorite literary characters had an iPhone, a Twitter account, and a sense of humor. This fall two 19-year old University of Chicago students launched TWITTERATURE, a humorous retelling of works of great literature in Twitter format. Getting through Honors English was never so fun or convenient.
for your health
Be Your Best You: Lower Body Total fitness for the mind, body, and spirit
The Ducker
by Natasha Fairweather
Natasha Fairweather
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atasha Fairweather is a certified personal trainer, fitness expert and former Miss Figure. In this four-part series she educates teens on the commitment to be fit and how to live your best life ever. It is time for Back to School, and as the last few weeks of a lazy summer wind down you begin to realize it has been just that: lazy. All those workout routines you vowed to do back in May were pushed to the side, and the only Core you worked on this summer was in the middle of an Oreo cookie. Now that school is back in session, you realize that your energy levels are too low and that gym class is suddenly difficult. Fear no more. Follow through on this quick routine and all those latent, under-worked muscles in your buns and thighs will snap back into action in no time. Lower body muscles are vastly underappreciated, and often overlooked when exercising and showing off. When asked to flex and show off our stuff, it is rare to find someone that will pull up their pant legs to show off hard rippling quadriceps. Instead, they curl their arm, or show off their washboard abdominals. You may not realize it but your legs are the foundation of every movement you make throughout the day. Leg muscles get you from class to class, lift you up stairs, and get you back home. They get us through our day,
and most importantly lower body muscles protect our knees from injury. These muscles are the largest and most powerful in the entire body, and luckily they are among the fastest to respond to training. You can see results in as little as ten days. The common misconceptions about squats and other popular leg exercises is that they will lead to hulking bulky muscles. This is just not so. Toned leg muscles will look leaner longer, while special bulking high weight exercises will lead to more colossal muscles. Strong leg muscles are important not only to look long and lean in a pair of shorts, but also to improve stamina and endurance. The “Ducker” Stand in a split stance, with feet about 3 feet apart. Place your hands on your hips for added stability. Then bend the knees and lower the back knee to the floor. Keep the front heel down and the knee directly over your foot. Keep abs in and back straight as you push through the front heel and back to starting position. Do not lock your knees at the top of the movement. The “Kicker” Start with your elbows and knees on the ground, and your back flat with your belly button pulled in. Then lift one leg so it is level with your back. Then kick up, slightly bending your knee with your heel in the air. The “Sumo” Begin with your feet together and knees slightly bent in a soft squat position, and arms pulled in. Then step out to the side, lifting your arms to shoulder level. Then squat down keeping your knees over your toes, your back flat, and butt sticking out. Return to starting position and complete with the other leg. To avoid injury, remember to keep your knees slightly bent. Until next time, train to be healthy...
The Kicker
The Sumo
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values valores
Say No to Sext!
Why sending or forwarding nude pics is a trend you don’t want to follow
by Camisa Townsend
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consider myself to be pretty up on the latest technology and trends. But when I first heard the word “sexting” I completely thought it was a joke. Sexting? That can’t possibly be in the dictionary! Nevertheless, as funny as the word sounds, sexting is a serious matter that is affecting teens across the country. While it hasn’t made it into Webster’s yet, the term “sexting” refers to the transmittal of sexual images through the phone or via e-mail. To find out more about this phenomenon, I interviewed Detective Eric Hendel of the Broward Sheriff’s Office and he gave me valuable information that every teen should know. Here is what I found out: TVM: Who is mostly involved in sexting? Detective Hendel: Teens that are in middle school are mostly the ones sexting. Most cases involve a girl sending her boyfriend or someone she likes a picture of her exposed body and then it mysteriously is sent to others. Girls, wake up! Didn’t your mother always tell you to use your head! Sending someone your exposed body is not cool. We understand the 6 teen vision magazine
whole “free to do whatever you want” speech, but things happen. Moreover, you do not want to be the one that it happens to, so be smart about it. Those images being sent over e-mail can be picked up by porn companies and used on their websites. It’s not a good thing to think about but it happens.
Sending someone
your exposed body is not cool. TVM: Is sexting illegal? What are the consequences? Detective Hendel: Yes it is. Each image is a third degree felony punishable by up to five years in prison. If convicted of possession and distribution of sexual performance by a child, the person is registered as a sex offender. Even people as young as 16 years of age can become a registered sex offender, due to sexting. In addition, both the sender and receiver are equally culpable under the law.
TVM: What should you do if you have already participated in sexting? Detective Hendel: First thing, STOP! Erase all the pictures in your phone and do not send any to anyone else. Use common sense. If you are engaged in a relationship, keep it private. Teens should have more selfrespect and dignity than to do things such as sexting. If the person you are with is anxious to see your body, make them wait. Also, do not let anyone force you into something you know is not right, because at the end you will be the one looking foolish. TVM: What should I do if someone sexts me? Detective Hendel: If someone sexts you erase it immediately. If the picture is found in your phone, you are responsible and guilty just the same as the person who sent it to you. The reason why you would be guilty is because you consciously saved it in your phone instead of deleting it immediately after receiving it. At the end of the day you just need to say no to sext, whether sending or receiving. tv
impress yourself
Get Rid of that Summer Hangover How to get back on your classroom game after a long, lazy summer
by Camisa Townsend
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e all have wished that summer was a little longer every year. Who doesn’t want to go hang out with friends everyday and not have to worry about catching up on homework? Having a summer hangover is when you’re too tired and not enthusiastic at all about going back to school. It’s hard to get out of the cycle of sleeping in all day and catching up on your favorite shows. But the reality is no one can be successful by not doing anything. (Unless you’re Paris Hilton.) So here are a few ways to shake off some of that couch potato attitude.
have to dread doing it because you will already be prepared. Countless research has shown that reading makes you smarter; helps keep reasoning and memory intact, and boosts general knowledge. Who wouldn’t want that?
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Get involved. Get your head in the game. You go to school to get an education and graduate. All the extracurricular activities are for your benefit, so use them to your advantage! Start looking into the things that interest you. It could either be a club or sports—as long as you’re a part of something, you can never go wrong. Also make a list of goals that you would like to 4 Start waking up early. Even though accomplish. It could be anything that you want. For school hasn’t started, it would still be a good idea instance: My goal is to not be late the whole first to get back in the habit of getting up grading period, to finish all projects around the time school starts. Act as if time, and to take interest in an ol starts on you are really going to school the next day. after-school activity. By doing these Reading before scho Start going to sleep an hour or two earlier things before school starts, it will before the time you usually climb into help you understand what you’re in bed. I know you’re used to hanging out late school for and give you some motivation with your friends. But when it gets closer to get back in the classroom routine. to do what needs to be done. the time for school to start, the responsible The summer is a time to relax and decision to make is to abstain from all the partying so it won’t be that enjoy life, but at the end of every day you are the one responsible difficult to adjust to the school hours. for your education and success. You have to be the one to make 4 Read at least a page a day. When school starts it’s school a major priority. And by doing so you are putting your future back to reading. Whether you’re taking science, math, or P.E. reading and aspirations ahead of all others. So it’s okay to be a little laid will be on the syllabus. Reading before school starts will help you back from the summer; just don’t forget you have a job to do and get back in the classroom routine. So when you go back to school that is to make something out of yourself. No one else can do that and the teacher gives some type of reading assignment, you won’t but you! tv
will help you
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My Freshman Year Spotlight on Bethune Cookman University Two first-years reflect on their freshman year at one of the nation’s most prestigious HBCU’s by Iyesha Zigler
BCUs, or historically black colleges and universities, were established in the aftermath of the American Civil War to educate blacks who were traditionally denied access to the nation’s mainstream educational institutions. While comprising only three percent of the nation’s approximately 4000 institutions of higher learning, HBCUs produce approximately 23 percent of all bachelor’s degrees earned by African Americans annually (http://thinkbcu.org/hbcu_facts. htm). But there’s a little-known fact about HBCUs that might surprise you: while catering to African-Americans, HBCUs enroll a significant number of non-black students. An Associated Press report by Katrina Goggins found that during the 2005-2006 school year, nearly 10 percent of HBCU students were white (“White Students Being Recruited at Black Colleges,” Associated Press). HBCU’s, always popular among African-Americans, have become an increasingly popular educational choice for non-black students. Florida is home to no fewer than 4 of the nation’s 105 HBCUs, and Daytona Beach’s Bethune-Cookman University stands out as among the nation’s most prestigious. Founded in 1904 by Mary McLeod Bethune, Bethune-Cookman University offers degrees in 37 majors. Here we turn our spotlight on BethuneCookman College and hear from two students about their first year on campus.
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Ryan Griffin is a 22-year old junior at Bethune-Cookman University. I play football so I had coaches to come out to recruit me and send me letters by mail since I was a freshman in high school. When I was a senior, I went to my school guidance counselor and she helped me pick out schools that were a good fit for me. That’s how I heard about Bethune-Cookman. I didn’t have to pay for anything dealing with school because I was on a scholarship. Plus my schedule and courses were already set up. Still, my first year in college was a hard adjustment. I was not used to the environment. I was used to my mom waking me up every morning and helping me out when I needed it. Now that I am in college, I have to do everything the best way I can. I had to find a way to manage my honors classes and football practice. What I did was write out a planner so that I could be organized with my classes and football practice. Once I found a way to juggle both, it was easy. Bethune-Cookman was an easy place to adjust to because it is so small. When you go to college, you will meet many people there from everywhere and you just have to trust that the
About Bethune-Cookman University The Basics
Student Body
Visiting and Contact Information: 640 Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune Boulevard Daytona Beach, FL 32114-3099 United States Phone: 386-481-2600 Fax: 386-481-2601 Website: www.cookman.edu
Total Undergraduate:
3,093
Enrollment Female: Out of State: Freshman Enrollment:
57.68% 30% 909
Campus Life/Facilities Academics & Majors Academic Calendar: Degrees Offered: Student Faculty Ratio: Most Popular Majors:
Semester Bachelor’s & Master’s 17:1 Business/Commerce, General Corrections and Criminal Justice, Elementary Education and Teaching
Admissions
Campus Size (number of acres): % of Classrooms with Internet Access: Campus-wide Internet Network: Registered Student Organizations:
78 80% Yes 40
Tuition & Aid Tuition: Undergraduate receiving need- based financial aid:
$11,792.00 93%
Courtesy: www.PrincetonReview.com
Average High School GPA:
2.8
The main thing to do when you apply to colleges is do your research.
college survival guide: prnewsfoto/the clorox company
people you are hanging around will have a good impact on what you want to do. You have to have a good group of friends that have a positive mind. Going to college is not about going to a bunch of parties and having hangovers. It’s about going to school and learning to do what you want to do for the rest of your life. My advice for kids who are in high school is to start taking their SAT and ACT tests in the 10th grade so that if they do not pass, they will have two more years to study and take them over.
Camisa Townsend is a 19 yearold sophomore at Bethune-Cookman University majoring in pre-law. In high school, I had a college counselor who helped me research colleges and fill out my applications. I applied to at least five schools and I got accepted to all of them. I made sure I filled out my FASFA so I could receive financial aid. My first year in college was a breeze, it went by so fast. I stayed on campus. People who stay on campus have an advantage because we can eat for free and we do not have any reason to be late to class. In your first and second quarters you have to take four core classes, including math, reading, and so on. Then you take the introductory courses for your major.
My advice to high school students thinking about college is to start preparing early. Talk to your guidance counselor and make sure you study hard and stay focused on what you are in school for. The main thing to do when you apply to colleges is to do your research. There are so many colleges out there and it can be hard to figure out which one to attend. And fill out those financial aid applications early! Some schools only have a set amount of scholarship and grant money they can give out each year—if you snooze you may lose! tv
Freshman tips & advice Clorox launched a College Survival guide which features advice from current college students and moms of college students who have been there, done that. Region specific editions of the guide are available on Facebook and www.MomCentral. com/CollegeSurvival Guide2009
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R.I.P. Michael Jackson The King of Pop’s biggest fans remember his best moments by The Staff of Teen Vision Magazine
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So now we remember him in the best way we know how—through the musical memories he left us. At a recent Family Fun Day hosted by ReCapturing the Vision just a couple of days after Mike’s passing, we asked a few students, parents, and workers what they will remember and miss most about the King of Pop. Their responses prove that Michael Jackson’s legacy will live on forever. R.I.P. to the very best that ever was. Jacqueline Del Rosario, President & CEO, RTV How did you find out Michael Jackson died? I was in Atlanta attending a class. I was in shock because I did not know if it was true or not. What’s your favorite Michael Jackson song/moment?
michael jackson photo: prnewsfoto
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ust as our parents will always remember where they were when Martin Luther King died, or when JFK was shot, our generation will always remember the day Obama was elected President, and the sad July afternoon when the world discovered that the King of Pop was dead. Whether you heard by text message, telephone, or television, the impact was the same: complete and utter shock. We knew Mike was timeless—we thought he would live forever. Though we joked about his jheri curl, and his bleached skin, and his odd choice of pets, he was still the gold standard against which every other artist was measured. Our memories of him were tied up in memories of our childhood—for many of us, his was the first concert we attended or the first album we bought. So when we found out Mike was gone it was like a piece of ourselves had died, and we found ourselves reeling from the loss because it was so utterly unexpected.
I like “We are the World.” That is one of my favorite songs. My favorite performance was on the Motown 25 reunion show when he performed Billie Jean and threw that hat off and did the backwards moonwalk. I was like what was that!?
thriller album cover: prnewsfoto/vh1, courtesy sony bmg; newsweek issue: prnewsfoto/newsweek; life cover: prnewsfoto/life inc.
Barbara Oldham, age 35, Case Manager How did you find out Michael Jackson died? I was at work. I was shocked. What’s your favorite Michael Jackson song/moment? At Halloween all I play is Thriller, but that’s not my absolute favorite. Rock with You is my absolute favorite. My favorite performance was the Pepsi commercial when he taught that little boy from the Fresh Prince, it was Carlton, how to do the moonwalk and he could do it better than him! That was so cool. Alex Del Rosario, 15, Killian High School How did you find out Michael Jackson died? I was driving back from Daytona when I heard about it. I was stunned and speechless. MJ was the man. What’s your favorite Michael
like that. He gave you that spiritual connection, that good vibe. He was just a good man. What’s your favorite Michael Jackson song/moment? There are so many. My favorite songs are “Black and White,” “In the Closet,” “You are Not Alone,” and “Thriller.” I really like the “Black and White” video. That sparked a lot of controversy between black and white people and it brought many black and white people together. Nukaya Kelly, 15, Killian High School How did you find out Michael Jackson died? I woke up to my phone vibrating hearing that Michael Jackson died of a heart attack. I did not believe it. I told my friend, “Oh, you’re lying.” And then when I found out it was true, it was like “Oh my god.” What’s your favorite Michael Jackson song/moment? My favorite video is “Remember the Time.” They were jamming in that video. I like the whole Egyptian theme. My favorite song though is, “The Way You Make Me Feel.” R.I.P, Michael. You were the greatest. tv Michael Jackson Thriller Album released on November 30, 1982. In just over a year it became and still remains the best-selling album of all time.
Jackson song/moment? Rock with You and Billie Jean are my favorite songs. My favorite moment was when he was performing at the MTV awards and he did Billy Jean with the robot and then he did the moonwalk. And then I think before that he did a song—“Dirty Diana”–with the rock guy, Slash, on the guitar—that was hot. Trina Brown, 37, Teacher–RTV Vision of Excellence Summer Camp How did you find out Michael Jackson died? I was at home with my family. It was such a shock. He was too young and too talented. I just felt for him with all the things he went through in his life. He never did achieve the happiness he wanted. Thank god, he was able to have three kids. He will be missed. What’s your favorite Michael Jackson song/moment? My favorite song and video is “Keep it in the Closet.” I love that video— the song is sexy the video is sexy and I just love it. My other favorite video is “Remember the Time.” I love him in that, I love the dancing—the going back to Africa theme was hot. Michael did it best. Shlionda, 29, Parent,–RTV Vision of Excellence Summer Camp How did you find out Michael Jackson died? I was at home. I was sad because he is the King of Pop. He was a good, good man and he brought a lot of black people out. I just miss him. I’m grieving like he was family or something, but his songs just made you feel
The July 6/July 13 double issue of Newsweek (which hit newsstands on June 29), “The Meaning of Michael,” explored the life of the world’s most enigmatic pop star.
LIFE’S Michael Jackson Commemorative Edition LIFE Michael: 1958-2009
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shoulders, ears & hearts
Support, help & d n a h t a guidance always Dear Shoulders, My family is far from rich, yet I still made it to college. Now that I’m in college, I still feel poor. I never have money for books, clothes, food, or anything. I can’t help but get jealous of my friends whose parents give them the world. At times I make my mom feel horrible because she can’t do for me like I want. How can I be more considerate to my mother when I need the things I need? –Frustrated at FIU
Dear Ears, I recently found out that my best friend’s little sister stole my cell phone from me. Although I was able to get it back and she got in trouble, it is causing a strain on my best friend and I because when I go to her house it’s awkward. I love my best friend and don’t want to stop being friends with her, but how can I forgive her sister and ease the tension? –Candice, Coral Gables Dear Candice, I would start by sitting down with your best friend and her sister, and just clearing the air. Getting things off of your chest sometimes can go a long way toward helping you forgive someone. And if you’re not quite ready to do that, maybe try spending time with your best friend away from her house and her sister. Keep in mind that your best friend is probably feeling terrible, and is probably as unhappy about the situation as you are, so whatever you do, try not to take it out on her.
Dear Heart,
Dear Frustrated at FIU, The bond between mother and daughter is often thought to be impenetrable. Unfortunately, oftentimes mothers and daughters have a hard time communicating and understanding each other. Remember that the second you start resenting someone, you become embittered by that resentment. Instead of being mean to your mother, explain to her that you are having problems staying afloat in college, and it’s difficult to see all of your friends with everything they could ever want. Perhaps together you and she can come up with some ideas for ways you can earn extra cash. But most importantly, remember that your mother is probably doing her very best. Remember her sacrifices and all that she has done to help you get to college the next time you start seeing green.
I have a problem with guys. They look at me as an athletic, funny person but not as a girly girl. I feel like they will never go out with me because I don’t flirt like crazy or go to basketball games to scope out guys. I’m tired of being left out of girl talks because I’ve never had those moments with guys that almost every girl has been through. What’s wrong with me? –Feeling Ignored in Hialeah Dear Feeling Ignored, Stop feeling sorry for yourself. There is absolutely nothing wrong with you! In fact, guys may be noticing you and you don’t even realize it. You may think guys want flirty girls but all the guys we talked to say they want a girl who makes them feel comfortable and who likes to have fun. Talk to them, listen to them, laugh with them and, most importantly, relax around them. They’ll see you in a whole new light. tv
...Life, Laughter, Learn 14 teen vision magazine
College Options
Today’s college options go way beyond the traditional. This isn’t your parents’ university. By Robert Franek and the Staff of Teen Vision Magazine
A
s Vice President and Publisher of The Princeton Review Books, it’s my job to know a lot about colleges. And it helps that twenty years ago I was a high school student applying to college just like you. I had my sights set on a school I’d been dreaming about attending for years. So I took my SATs, wrote my essay, crossed by fingers, and waited. Weeks later when my fat envelope arrived in the mail I was able to breathe a huge sigh a relief—I was in. In retrospect, my whole college application process was pretty painless. Not so for many of you. There’s an exercise I like to do with students who come to The Princeton Review’s Getting In seminars. I ask them to write down on a sheet of paper the names of three schools they would love to see themselves at as college freshmen. I tell them not to think about their chances of being admitted or whether or not they can afford it. After they write down the names of their dream schools, I then try to guess which colleges they put on their list. By the time I’ve gone through all
the Ivies, all the state schools, and called out other name-brand schools like NYU, Tufts, Duke, Georgetown, Notre Dame, UCLA, and Northwestern, few students have more than one school left on their list. Clearly, we have a problem here. With approximately 4000 colleges in the U.S. to choose from, most students start their college search knowing about only 30 of them. No wonder the college admissions process can be so stressful: students are all applying to the same 30 schools!
info about colleges that will help them connect with their best fit schools. More and more often, those schools have not been your traditional liberal arts university. Students today have a plethora of college choices to consider, including community colleges, online programs, art and design schools, and more. The sheer number of options can be overwhelming. That’s why it’s so important to do your research. This is a good place to start. Most of the schools featured in this article are also profiled on PrincetonReview.com along with student opinion that gives you the lowdown on what it’s really like to the attend those schools. No matter what you’re looking for—a big school, a small school, a technical school, or a school just for creative types—take comfort in the fact that there’s truly something out there for everyone. Good luck with your search!
That’s why as the author of the Best 371 Colleges, it has been my unapologetic mission to give students hard to get at
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Get a Head Start on Your College Applications: Take a Free Practice PSAT Test and see how you would score and receive a detailed score analysis of your results with tips on how to boost your score. When: Saturday, September 26, 2009, 9:00am-12:00pm Where: 5916 Ponce de Leon Blvd., Suite 14 Coral Gables, Florida 33146 Then attend The Knowledge to Get Into College Workshop to get an inside look at the college admissions process and learn how to maximize your admissions potential. When: Saturday, October 3, 2009; 9:00am-11:00am or 12:00pm-2:00pm Where: 5916 Ponce de Leon Blvd., Suite 14 Coral Gables, Florida 33146
The Community College Option: Miami Dade College Once thought of as a haven for students who couldn’t quite make the grade, now community colleges are a sought after option for everyone from those looking for a great bargain to those looking for a great education. We sat down with Rene Garcia, Director of Enrollment at Miami Dade Community College, to find out what all the fuss is about.
$62.59. The annual cost for a full-time student is estimated at $2,300 plus books for Florida residents. That’s a real bargain when you consider that annual tuition at a private four-year college can easily top $30,000! MDC also has an extensive program of need-based financial aid and scholarships. In addition, MDC’s prestigious Honors College provides an intensely focused, multi-dimensional learning environment.
TVM: What are the benefi ts of attending a community college like MDC? Miami Dade College provides quality education that is affordable, accessible and cutting-edge. MDC has an open-door policy, meaning that we accept all students with a high school diploma. The flexible class schedules are very convenient for students who work. MDC students enjoy a full college experience, including an extensive Student Life program, with clubs, student publications, student government, and fraternities, as well as intercollegiate and intramural athletics. The classes are taught by outstanding faculty who are fully credentialed and highly experienced. They focus on students first. MDC offers hundreds of Associate in Art (AA) degree programs designed for students who want to continue their studies at fouryear institutions. There are three bachelor degree programs available – nursing, education and public safety. We also offer Associate in Science (AS), Associate of Applied Science (AAS) and certificate programs that allow students to enter the workforce upon completion.
TVM: Is there a stigma associated with attending a community college? How do you respond to people who may think that MDC doesn’t offer as good of an education as a 4-year college? There shouldn’t be. Community colleges prepare most of the nation’s registered nurses, police officers, paramedics, firefighters, and technicians. President Obama recently highlighted community colleges as vital resources for rebuilding the economy. Community colleges, more and more, are being recognized for the role they play. Not only do community colleges provide an excellent education, they provide a gateway to other prestigious institutions. MDC graduates have transferred to the best institutions in the nation, including Harvard, Stanford, and MIT, among others, frequently with a generous scholarship package. MDC graduates enjoy guaranteed admission to any state university in Florida, including UF and FSU. In addition, MDC also has individual transfer agreements with other outstanding private and out-ofstate institutions such as Georgia Tech.
TVM: How much does MDC cost? What advice do you have for students who think they may not be able to afford college? Miami Dade College has one of the most affordable tuitions in the nation. MDC’s 2008-2009 fees-per- credit hour were 16 teen vision magazine
TVM: How do students know if community college is right for them? Choosing the right school is a personal choice. However, community colleges provide access, more attention, quality affordability and a pathway to great careers and other institutions. Student life and
civic engagement activities rival those at any four-year institution. TVM: How many of your students go on to obtain a 4-year degree? Eighty percent of our AA graduates transfer to a Florida college or university. Another 3% transfer out-of-state within a year of graduating from MDC. Students move on to universities such as Stanford, Georgetown, New York University, Brown University, Columbia, and Yale, among many other respected institutions. TVM: What kind of programs does MDC offer? MDC offers more than 200 programs in various disciplines, including business, engineering, architecture, and film production, among others. We offer three bachelor programs in education, public safety and nursing, with more scheduled to be launched soon. TVM: What advice do you have for high school seniors thinking of attending MDC? Over the course of nearly 50 years, MDC has cultivated a strong bond with the surrounding community, an advantage often unique to community colleges. To make the most of your community college experience, get involved and take advantage of the many programs, scholarships, grants, student activities, and cultural events that will help you grow both academically and personally. Check out MDC online at www.mdc.edu.
llege
Miami Dade Co
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drawbacks of the online learning. So the stigma is not what it once was.
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e Huizenga The Carl DeSantis Building, H. Wayn rship School of Business and Entreneue y at Nova Southeastern Universit
The Online College Option: Nova Southeastern University Online colleges combine the rigor of a traditional degree program with the convenience of the Internet, offering students a flexible option for getting an education while juggling other commitments. But make no mistake—getting an online degree isn’t easy and it isn’t for everyone. We got the inside scoop from Dr. Steve Harvey on the benefits and challenges of going digital for your degree. TVM: What are some of the benefi ts of enrolling in an online program? I think the first thing is convenience for those that are not scared of technologies.
For undergraduates who need to subsidize the cost of their education by working fulltime, an online program offers a little more flexibility. At Nova, we have a large number of students taking both face-to-face and online classes. Perhaps they have enough time during the day to take two of their courses in-person and then they take the other two online because they may have to work at night. Students are able to mix and match their courses quite easily without getting pushed into a corner or a box and really modify their studies and pursue their degree as they see it works for them. TVM: How does the cost of an online program compare to the cost of traditional, in-person degree program? I think it’s no question that any kind of private university whether online or not, will generally have higher tuition. An online student will just have to pay for tuition—not room and board. An online student taking courses from somewhere out-of-state likely is going to need less resources than a student on campus, so naturally it’s more cost effective. TVM: Is there a stigma associated with attending an online college? There is a stigma with some students, but it is not what it was years ago. We have had over a decade to perfect different technologies and iron out the differences, benefits and
TVM: What does it take to be successful in an online program? When I speak with students, I will often say to them that an online course is likely going to be more difficult. Students who have the maturity to drive themselves to know that they have a week to turn in their assignment and as long as it’s submitted on Sunday at 6pm they can control their schedule however they like, will do well in an online program. On the other hand, students who procrastinate and need someone to give them a daily deadline or mid-week deadline will do better in a faceto-face course. Depending on the person’s learning style they may learn better in a face-to-face class.
s in front of the Carl NSU Business student yne Huizenga School Wa H. g, ldin Bui DeSantis euership at Nova ren rep Ent of Business and Southeastern University
But a student who has developed strong study skills may do well in any environment whether it’s face to face or online, because that student is going to see what the standards are, and they will begin to meet those expectation. I think a student that really embraces technology and not just tolerates it, is a student who is also going to fare much better in the online environment. TVM: What kinds of online programs are available at Nova? We offer a great deal for both undergraduate and graduate students. Some highlights include our
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bachelor’s in accounting which combines online components with face-to-face instruction. With that kind of profession, there are certain advanced courses in accounting that we have determined are not quite right to be delivered online because the undergraduate students might lack a little bit of the study maturity and just some of the intellectual growth that it takes to be successful. So to take that example, we’ve decided that if you’re going to be an accounting major you’re going to have to do most of the advanced accounting courses live either here or at one of our satellite campuses throughout the state. There are educational degrees that we offer online. We certainly have a variety of options for students.
time lab monitor that is able to navigate through the system. That way finding what button to push is not a barrier for students, and they can really study and do the work that they need to do. We also have a retention center at each division that is able to reach out to students who are struggling. Each term we pull student grade reports and see which students are borderline. We have specialists who reach out to students and to try to find out what is going on and whether it’s tutoring or more contact with faculty that they need. Because in the end it’s really an exchange between the faculty and the student where most of the learning takes place.
TVM: What support networks do you have in place for students entering an online program at Nova? Each college has a full-time staff and student advisor. If you are a new student enrolling online, the advisor will speak to you and help you understand what your next four years are going to be like, what courses you will have to pursue, and the best order in which to take them. The advisors try to help the students understand the potential pitfalls of the online environment and the things to do to avoid them. Nova has very large computer labs on campus and a full18 teen vision magazine
TVM: What does it take to be successful here? We find that the things that make a student successful is that they are taking what they want or doing what they want to do. When people are doing what they want to do, they become way more focused and we find that they thrive in that kind of environment.
TVM: Where can our readers f ind out more information about Nova’s online programs? I think the best thing for a student to do is go to www.nova.edu.
The Design School Option: Ai Miami International University of Art & Design Students around Florida who have always marched to the beat of their own drum find a home at the Ai Miami International University of Art & Design. Budding fashonistas, aspiring artists, marketing mavens and interior designers all find their niche here. Here Director of Admissions Kevin Ryan gives us an inside look on what makes an Ai Miami degree so fabulous.
Library, The interior of the Alvin Sherman y Center nolog Tech n matio Infor and Research,
their degree in 3 years if they choose to is because we offer classes year-round. If the student does choose to follow the program the way we’ve laid it out, they can complete it in 3 years and their skill set will be fresh when they enter the workforce.
TVM: What are some of the benef its of enrolling at Ai Miami? The differences between attending the Ai Miami International University of Art & Design and a traditional university is that we focus on what the student needs to be successful in their future. Seventy percent of our students’ courses are in their major and 30% are in the humanities, so it is kind of a flip of what you see in the traditional environment. TVM: Does this mean it takes less time to complete the programs? Yes and no. What will happen is that the student will have a lot more courses and credits in their major. The reason they can complete
Ai Miami International University of Art & Design
The way we structure our curricula, students are in classes for up to four hours. There might be a 20-minute break in between. That continuity gives them the ability to work on something that they can really take to the next level. It is very hard to turn creativity on and off in 1 hour. At Ai Miami, students are able to develop their craft as much as they want to. TVM: How much does it cost? The tuition is about $575 dollars per credit hour. At a private institution, the cost
TVM: What is the application process like at Ai Miami? Our application process is somewhat different from the traditional process. You would fill out an application, but you would also have to do an interview with one of our assistant directors who takes students through the different curricular options so that we can find out what that student is interested in and whether we’re a good fit. The assistant directors meet with the students and their family because we really like the input of the families to see what kind of support the students have. We look at the student not just based on grades but based on everything. Hopefully they may have a portfolio.
of the education is in the 80 - 90 thousand dollar range for a bachelor’s. Our price is in the lower range for private colleges. TVM: What kind of programs does Ai Miami offer? We have many programs that are popular. This university started out as fashion school so we have a lot of fashion design students. We also have fine arts, so students can get into a lot of different programs at our campus. Over 90% of students are placed in their career field upon graduation. We have strong internships and we have a great portfolio program where employees come and review students’ work and from that make many jobs offer to students.
Over 90% of students are placed in their career field upon graduation.
TVM: Where can our readers f ind out more information about Ai Miami’s programs? The first thing is to fill out an inquiry form on our website (www.artinstitutes. edu/miami/) or contact the school and we will get you in touch with the right people to get your question answered. We do encourage people to come visit the campus to see if it is the right fit for them. tv
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budget friendly & stylish room décor Walmart’s colorful and affordable Back to College storage, lighting, electronic, and bedding essentials will enable students to create a home base for success.
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RunwayReady Fashion for Back to School Ai Miami sets the trends for the hottest looks on campus this season photography by amanda langford Makeup by east coast makeup by sandy mastresani wardrobe by the recycled closet on location at ai miami international university of art & design
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L to R: High-waisted jean by 21; full pattern shirt by Soprano; gold woven belt by BCBG; gladiator shoes by BC; Short-sleeve white Oxford by Eddie Bauer; capri jeans by Hippie; brown platform shoes by Marc Fisher; Shoes by Converse; vest by Gap; Blouse by Jully Kang, skinny jean by YNO, gold platform shoes by BCBG; Shoes by Steve Madden, tie by Joseph Banks; shirt and jacket by Express; American Eagle denim shorts; Yanak striped jacket; tank top by Abercrombie and Fitch; Forever 21 dress; Prada belt; Miss Caprizo boots
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Charlotte Russe plaid dress; denim vest from Gap; sandals by Nine West
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L to R: Jacket by Pierre Cardin; shirt by Express; jeans by American Eagle; Striped overalls by Guess teen vision magazine 23
L to R: Nally Millie cami; cardigan by Moth; Lucky Brand jeans; shoes by Guess; Lucky Brand t-shirt; shoes by Converse; Swiss Gear backpack; Dress by Free People
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Abstract pattern shirt by Jully Kang; skinny jean by YNO; gold platform shoes by BCBG
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L to R: Short-sleeve white Oxford by Eddie Bauer; capri jeans by Hippie; brown platform shoes by Marc Fisher; American Eagle denim shorts; Yanak striped jacket; tank top by Abercrombie and Fitch
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Cardigan by Lacoste; shirt and slacks by Joseph Banks
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keeping it real
School Matters
School is the new “necessary”
by Camisa Townsend
“S
chool isn’t for me.” How many times have you heard that line spoken by someone who doesn’t have a clue of what they want out of life? Or maybe you’re guilty of feeling this way yourself? This generation is all about getting the fast money. Kids these days want to shine hard and do big things but they don’t want to put in the time and effort to earn a living legitimately and honestly. That’s how they get into trouble. Now I know school isn’t easy. And it certainly isn’t always fun. But there’s one thing I know for sure: It’s necessary. Most of us don’t inherit our money—we have to work for it. And unless you’re Blair Waldorf and you’ve got a big, fat trust fund waiting for you after you turn 18, then you’re going to have to work hard to get to the top. The first stepping stone on your ladder to success is, without a doubt, getting an education. There is no way around it. Fast food restaurants even require high school diplomas. You might think, “Why do I need a high school diploma to flip burgers?” But guess what?!–It’s just that serious now! Employers want people who have some type of skill. You need to know how to count money in order to be a cashier. You need to know how to read in order to take and deliver orders. Gaining that knowledge and getting certified to do whatever you like is one of life’s highest pleasures and greatest accomplishments. 28 teen vision magazine
Employers want people who have some type of skill. Now just because you have a degree doesn’t guarantee you a free ticket to success, but it does open more doors to make things happen. Having a degree also doesn’t guarantee that you won’t experience other types of obstacles in life whether it is racism, sexism, or just someone hating on you. There are a lot of jobs that don’t require a school education like becoming a business owner, producer, activist, rapper, entertainer, or engineer. So I’m not saying that if you don’t have an education you won’t become successful. But I am saying that having an education makes a difference in many cases. You could be on a job for a long time, yet someone who just started working a few months ago can get promoted instead of you just because they have a piece of paper stating that they are certified. It may not be right or morally correct but that is just reality. So if you have dreams that go farther than the moon, you must reach for them with all your might. Even if what you’re trying to become has no need for an education, just be sure to have a backup plan. Having an education might just save you. tv
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