Winter Issue 205.11 by CSULA University Times

NIVERSITY IMES

Mar. 17, 2014

INSIDE: -CSULA Alumni fights police brutality PG 2 -concern over new tvfm center's crosswalk PG 2 -Periodismo en español: LA ONDA PG 8 -ACTRESS René Russo and CSULA ALUM GJ Echternkamp VISIT PG 5 -MUSIC FOR FINALS AND SPRING BREAK PG 9 -FASHION STUDENTS' NEW CHALLENGE PG 4 -HOW I MET YOUR MOTHER REACHES END PG 11

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C A L I F O R N I A S T A T E U N I V E R S I T Y, L O S A N G E L E S

Issue 205.11

CSULA Welcomes the New Television, Film, and Media Center on Campus

CAMPUS

Angeline Bernabe Staff Reporter The completion of the new Television, Film, and Media Center was honored on Friday, March 14 with an official ribbon cutting ceremony. An all day celebration, which included a morning and evening reception along with a ribbon cutting and open house, recognized the faculty and staff involved in the development of the building as well as the architects involved in the construction. The building, which is located on the northwestern side of campus perched atop of the hill, was originally an old building with a basketball court. Jay Bauer, the architect of the building explained, “The most difficult part was working with an existing building and re-imagine it.” Now, the same basketball court has been converted into a 2300 squarefoot sound stage for students to use. When it came to deciding what kind of purpose that the building should serve, the Dean of the College of Arts and Letters, Dr. Peter McAllister, mentioned the concept of windows as a screen to the world. He explained during the morning reception’s opening speech, “If I gave you a wall in a building in a room that was that big and real in terms of high tech and HD, then we can connect students to the novelists, the poet laureates, to the chemical scientists, to the biologists… so students can be in a classroom and connected right on that wall through that ‘screen’ to the

Dean McAllister and President Covino cut the ribbon at morning reception of the new TVFM Center| Photo by Timmy Truong major thinkers and creators around the globe.” In addition to the 2300 square-foot sound stage, the new building includes computer labs with editing software such as AVID and Final Cut, digital audio recording and mixing rooms, conference rooms where students can discuss and collaborate, and screening rooms. During her opening remarks at the morning reception before the ribbon cutting ceremony, Professor Bridget Murnane couldn’t contain her excitement for the new building and spoke about what the building will do for students. She explained, “This building is really for the students that will enable them to pursue their dreams and to be able to walk into the industry or whatever it is you go into with real skills under your belt.” Fur-

The TVFM Center | Photo by Timmy Truong thermore, Murnane clarified that the building is for all Arts and Letters Students, the surrounding community, and everyone on campus. To prove that the use of the building and the connections Television and Film students make with others extended beyond their major, Professor Murnane introduced Telecommunications Student and President of Golden Eagle TV, Ana

Corella, for her work with the student production unit, specifically for her work on the Public Service Announcement of CSULA’s Engineering Department’s Eco Car 2 Team. As a student, Corella mentioned how she loved the project because “it combines both sides of the campus.” Dr. John Ramirez, Chair of

TVFM Center Continued On Page 6

University Times

Mar. 17, 2014

CSULA Alum Stands Up Against Abuse NEWS

Veronica Bustamante Contributor One of CSULA's very own Golden Eagle Alumni has been standing up and fighting against police brutality. Aloni Bonilla, recent CSULA graduate was delayed earning her BA in Mathematics after according to Bonilla, being assaulted and becoming a victim of unnecessary force by CHP Officer Jose Ramirez of the Baldwin Park division. Bonilla has launched a social media fight against all Police Violence and is in the process of appealing charges against herself that were based on false reports by Officer Ramirez and the removal of important video evidence. Bonilla, former president of the USEU, (Union Salvadorenia Estudiantes Universitarios) and student employee of EPIC, Educational Participation In Communities, states that on March 21st, 2012, 3 months shy of graduating from CSULA, she was pulled over by California Highway Patrol under suspicion of driving while under the influence. Bonilla stated that the entrance to the freeway was congested with construction that had been going on for quite some time and was unable to notice that part of the entrance ramp was closed. Apparently a different officer questioned why she had entered the freeway that way and informed her that another car was pulled over for the same thing and the driver was also tested for a DUI. After not finding conclusive evidence that Bonilla was under the influence, she states she was taken to The Queen of the Valley Hospital in West Covina where she consented to undergo a blood test to prove she was not under the influence. Bonilla states that Officer Ramirez’s aggression heightened. Bonilla states the officer became annoyed with her because she was asking questions. She asked who was going to be responsible for hospital fees and what was going to happen next after the test. Bonilla states she was sitting patiently in handcuffs at the hospital and hand cuffs were removed so she could sign the blood test consent form and during

the wait the officer asked what she was studying for and later stated he wouldn’t want her to be his children’s teacher. Bonilla said she felt the officer continued to make remarks at her especially after she mentioned she would obtain an attorney after she was released. At one point the officer asked whose testimony would be believable between both of them. While waiting for the blood test, Bonilla states that both parties were not aware of video surveillance on that section of the hospital and that the video depicts what really happened that night. According to the hospital surveillance video that Bonilla has since released on YouTube Officer Ramirez is seeing using what Bonilla states was excessive force, resulting in five slipped spinal discs and contusions on face and eye after being slammed to floor and against a hospital wall. Bonilla states that she cried out for help from hospital staff as she overheard the 6 ft 220lb officer claim she was resisting arrest. Bonilla’s education came to a halt after this experience causing her to decline an award from LAUTR, The Los Angeles Urban Teacher Residency, because of the pending charges against her that wouldn’t allow her to obtain her certificate of clearance for her credential program. Bonilla explained that once she was taken from the hospital and transported to the LA Sheriff’s department, the officer was asked to obtain a medical clearance before they would book her because she was hysterically crying, limping and her face was swollen. The officer then transported her to St. Francis Medical Center in Lynwood. Bonilla states that the case against her was unjust and lacked important key evidence that was not given to the jurors while on trial. Bonilla was charged with a DUI, even though she was never given the blood test that she states the officer refused after the hospital altercation. She was also charged with resisting arrest and vandalism that she states was a result of her attempt to shield her

face with her leg from the approaching officer while under hand restraints in the front seat of the CHP vehicle. Bonilla was sentenced and served 17 days in jail. She has since filed an appeal to have her charges removed. Bonilla’s story has been circulating throughout social media and other local news in an attempt to bring awareness to police brutality. She states the impact that this incident has had on her life has been overwhelming but is a selfproclaimed proactive survivor. She is currently fighting for justice locally and volunteers helping families who have lost loved ones to Los Angeles officers. She also stated she suffered not only physically but also psychologically after the abuse. The stress that led to not completing her major as planned caused her to go into hiding for a few months not able to trust those she thought she once could. She felt her rights were violated and the nurses from the hospital and those who are here to protect and to serve were not longer trustworthy. Bonilla stated that after her trial and being convicted of charges, some of the jurors were approached and asked what ultimately had them convinced she was guilty; 5 of the jury members stated that they believed her against the officer but were not allowed to see the video as evidence and based on the officers testimony ruled in favor of the officer that was later exonerated of all charges. Bonilla states that the video would have helped her case and the court did not use it during trial because of an 11 second delay that they felt could have been tampered with. Bonilla argues that the surveillance video is from the hospital and that the excuse was used to cover up the officer’s actions. When asked what she would like to see as a result of her experience Bonilla stated that she wants to bring awareness to students especially in CSULA because the officer is still working and has since been transferred to the areas surrounding our school. She

Stand Up Continued on Page 3

NIVERSITY IMES

Managing Editors Yzzy Gonzalez Timmy Truong Production Manager Lilliana Arrazcaeta Web Editor Carol Venegas

Contributors Veronica Bustamante Samantha Carlson Nuyra Fuentes Yolanda Giron Mayra Montoya Christine Tran

La Onda Staff Spanish Editor Pablo Baler Contribuyentes Daisy Cervantes Rosalía Hernández Alicia Soto

Columnist Roxana Hernandez

Copy Editor Carol Venegas Business/ Advertising Mangager Jim Munson

Cartoonist Tammy Nguyen Graphic Designer Aaron Bautista

Faculty Advisor Suzanne Regan

Photographer Timmy Truong

Distributor Carol Venegas Staff Reporter Angeline Bernabe

All opinions and letters in the University Times represent the opinion of the author and do not necessarily represent the views of the UT or the university. Letters to the editor should include an address, telephone number and identification. Letters may be edited for grammar and length. University Times display and classified advertising should not be construed as the endorsement or investigation of commercial enterprises of ventures. University Times reserves the right to reject any advertising. University Times is published every Monday. Copyright 2014 University Times. All Rights Reserved. Cal State University, Los Angeles 5151 State University Dr. - KH C3098 LA, Ca, 90032 Office 323.343.4215 Advertising 323.343.4270

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Mar. 17, 2014 Stand Up Continued from Page 2 would like to see her name cleared of all criminal charges and is currently appealing her sentence. She states that although she ultimately grew strength and graduated from CSULA in June 2013, the criminal record following her has made working and finding housing very difficult. She warns that it can happen to anyone, stating, “We must stand up against the Status Quo” and get rid of fear. She recently acted in a play called, ”My voice no longer quivers” that ran at CSULA Friday March 14th and 15th. She also has an account on gofundme to raise money for attorney fees. You may view the site at http://www.gofundme.com/ JusticeforAloni The University Times contacted the CHP office in Baldwin Park and was informed Officer Ramirez had transferred to a different department.

Danger While Crossing NEWS

Yolanda Giron Contributor The opening of the TVF-Media Studies Center was an important project, and finally in September 2013 it was officially open for use. The center, which is located on the hill overlooking the northeast area of the campus, is equipped with top-of-the-line resources available to students in all aspects of media production and critical studies. There are a number of courses offered at the facility, and there has been a lot of positive feedback. But, there is also a number of students and staff who walk up the steep hill and cross over to the center daily, that feel “look both ways before you cross” is not a bullet proof method to cross the street up the intimidating hill. Students have complained about the fact that there is no crosswalk leading them to the building. There’s a safety concern in regards to the cars that

don’t slow down or even acknowledge pedestrians trying to cross the street. At night, the issue becomes even more dangerous, and while lighting of the center has been purposely positioned to help cast a light over the street, some cars are still not as cautious as they should be while driving up and down the hill. At the moment there is a “slow down for pedestrians” sign up on the hill aimed at encouraging cars to slow down. The sign was placed on the hill after the center was opened, but some students find the sign is ineffective. Telecommunications major Alberto Albarca crosses that street often, and he explained that an addition of a stop sign might be more effective. Albarca stated, “As a driver I have difficulty seeing if anyone is getting ready to cross. I think a stop sign would be more effective because cars would have to stop either way, and especially if someone is crossing, whether it’s one per-

son or a few.” Albarca also explained, “It’s hard to see because of the curb so even if the lights are on it’s hard to see if the cars are coming fast or preparing to stop.” Chair of the TVF-Media Studies Department, Dr. John Ramirez, said the issue has been a priority since prior to the opening of the building. Dr. Ramirez explained, “The matter of people’s safety crossing the streets surrounding the Center has been a major concern and priority for the TVF Department and A&L Dean Peter McAllister, since well before the Center opened for operations in September 2013.” Dr. Ramirez explained that measures are currently being taken in the efforts of placing a crosswalk up there and stated, “Dean McAllister has submitted the necessary paperwork to get the ball rolling on the installation of LED enhanced crosswalks at the TV, Film and Media Center.”

However, it might be a while before proper action begins. Dr. Ramirez said that there are issues that unfortunately stall the process. The problem, according to Dr. Ramirez, is that the street where the potential crosswalk would be placed is not property of the university, but rather city-owned. Dr. Ramirez explained that if it were solely in the hands of the University, the situation would have been a lot simpler and stated, “...if it was our property, our campus safety could just go in and do stop signs and paint crosswalks, and do all that with no restriction…The weird thing up there is that it’s only the buildings, the parking lot, and the building itself that are owned by the campus, everything else around them the walkways, the sidewalks, the street, is [belongs to the] city.” Lilibeth Patron, a transfer student and Telecommunications major, says that some

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Mar. 17, 2014

University Times

Danger Continued from Page 3

students, like her, have to cross the street on a daily basis and would feel a lot safer once the crosswalk is installed. Patron explained that by adding a crosswalk, “Motorist would know where to yield to pedestrians. I also believe that by having a crosswalk it can help reinforce the speed limit out there by forcing motorist to slow down and become more aware of the students that want to cross, specially during the lunch hour.” The permits for the addition of a crosswalk are not the only issues waiting to be resolved. Another concern that the Center encounters is the fact that there is only one disabled parking lot available up on the hill. Dr. Ramirez explained, “The difficulty, especially for disabled people, we know because we had the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) go up there and do an examination, is that the slope of the hill is really steep, like for wheelchairs it’s difficult, and the other problem, is the disabled

parking, there is only one disabled parking that we were authorized to have in the back of the building and we couldn’t get approval for anymore than that at this time, so that is something else that the dean is having to try to get. This was a big concern early on. That’s gonna take a while too.” When asked why these issues were not taken care of prior to the opening of the building, Dr. Ramirez was open to explain that, “Nobody anticipated that it was going to be such a difficult process getting these things approved, so when we decided and agreed that we would open the building for operations in the fall, because we were finally able to, everybody just thought it was just a matter of time and those things would happen in the short term, and then when we started looking into them and trying to make them happen we started realizing all of these obstacles.” Dr. Ramirez was very reassuring of the fact that Arts and Letters Dean McAllister is constantly keeping on eye and monitoring the status of the process. He explained that the Dean is, “...doing what he can

to help fast track it, but it’s city bureaucracy.” The required paperwork was sent in sometime during the beginning of Winter quarter 2014. At the moment there is no answer as to how long the waiting period will take, but in the meantime Dr. Ramirez encourages students and staff to be extremely careful while crossing the street or driving up the hill.

Side walk ends abruptly into the street of at the corner of a blind curve. Photo by Timmy Truong

Fashion Design Students Take on a Second Challenge FASHION

Roxana Hernandez Columnist Last week I wrote about the Art 459 fashion students embarking on an African textile print assignment for a Ghanaian inspired collection. Their creativity and their design aesthetic inspired me to look into their upcoming project—“Re-Dressing CSULA.” For this assignment students were to work in pairs and develop a 4 to 6 professional wear collection. Each group of two would be given a client to design and create for— but not just any client! The students were going to dress 6 faculty, administrator, or staff members of CSULA. When it came to designer collaboration, Professor Carol Frances Lung partnered her students in a surprising way. She had designers with different aesthetics partner up with one another. For instance, one designer could have a quirky aesthetic in their designs and their partner might have a more classic aesthetic.

This allows for the designers to take from the other strengths and create something unique. It’s not always that great mind think alike, the Art 459 class broke this myth and proved differences in aesthetic can work together. This was definitely the case. There was good communication between partners and agreements on work that embodied the designs. Fashion design major senior Brittany Aguirre explained, “The reason why this partnership was not as difficult was because we had to please our client. So whatever her ideas were, we implemented them in the design. This totally helps us when it comes to working with different aesthetics because we aren’t representing our own, rather our client’s.” Angel Montoya, also a fashion design major and senior, added, “We learn from each other, it’s a good collaboration.” Aguirre stated: “It’s not my aesthetic or my partners, but

Fashion Continued on Page 10

University Times

Mar. 17, 2014

Film Students Get Advice From René Russo and GJ Echternkamp NEWS

Angeline Bernabe Staff Reporter Television and Film students of Film Professor Robert Vianello’s Entertainment Industry Class were able to catch a glimpse of what the industry is like on Tuesday, March 11th. GJ Echternkamp, the director and writer of the new upcoming film adaptation of the indie documentary, Frank and Cindy, and actress René Russo (Outbreak, Freejack), who starred in the adaptation as Cindy, stopped by for a small panel event with a question and answer portion. Moderated by Professor Vianello, questions were asked regarding Echternkamp’s experience working in the film industry and his documentary. The students asked other questions like the number of projects done before working on Frank and Cindy, the process of developing a film, and how to run a set. Echternkamp revealed that he worked on a number of

projects before Frank and Cindy, and even submitted a film to the Sundance film festival titled, Virtually Heroes, starring Robert Baker (True Blood, The Lone Ranger). Echternkamp shared his challenges of obtaining the funds for Frank and Cindy where Professor Vianello added, “These things don’t happen overnight.” In regards to the final product, Echternkamp mentioned how many changes a film goes through and how those decisions might not be what you want in the end. Specifically, the misconceptions of how films are created and how they get credited. Regardless of the challenges, Echternkamp is proud ofhis first film adaptation and got positive feedback from the star of his film, René Russo. Russo stated, “You’re an amazing director, GJ,” and told the class how as a director, Echternkamp gave good criticism and notes when it came to directing the actors on set. Russo, as Professor Vianello

described as one of the most “prolific actors in this town who chooses to do roles in a wide range,” has worked with an extensive list of A-list actors like Robert DiNero, Anthony Hopkins, and Dustin Hoffman. She shared quirky stories from being on set of past films, experiences as an actress, and extended her thoughts with some advice to students, saying overall, “You have to be willing to fail in this business.” Along with her experiences as an actress, Russo also addressed issues what women face in the film industry and the kind of work ethic one should have in the industry. Students in the class watched the film adaptation the previous week and exchanged suggestions and feedback to Echternkamp and Russo about the film, which tells the story about Echternkamp's parents. The feedback that students said included comments on editing, characters, and story development.

Echternkamp and Russo were pleased to hear how students were able to connect with the film and what the film's message encompassed. Russo in particular wanted to make sure the audience understood what the film was about and where Echternkamp was coming from. Echternkamp expressed his gratitude about the experience working on Frank and Cindy saying, “Seeing these people play your family is pretty touching and I was amazed at how everyone wanted to be there [on set].” From a student’s perspective, Telecommunications major, Andy Her, expressed his appreciation for Vianello’s class. As a student, he shared his apprehension going forth in the Entertainment Indus-

try saying, “For me, I always question whether or not if this is the field for me and what I want to do in life because this [field] is really difficult.” However, it’s classes like Vianello’s where he’s positive that he’s making the right decision mentioning, “But at the end of the day, if you really love it, then this won’t become a ‘job’ in life.” The event ended with Professor Vianello asking Russo what her ultimate goal was. Russo, after a long pause connected with the students by sharing, “I pray for wisdom. Getting old is a scary thing… you gotta be able to accept that not everything’s easy. You just gotta hope that you can navigate it with wisdom.”

GJ Echternkamp and René Russo | Photo by Timmy Truong

University Times

TVFM Center Cont. from Page 1

the Television, Film and Media Department, commented, “It (the building) is a turning point for our program because it kind of makes us equal partners for our university as a whole in terms of having the capacity and the facilities to show our leadership in moving our campus technologically.” He addressed how currently some classes such as broadcasting courses are taught in a make shift way where many wires and equipment are involved. Ramirez stated that the new building is “going to make a lot of new things possible in the way we teach, what we teach, and how we teach.” President William Covino who made an appearance during the morning and evening receptions added, "This is a site for students who dream of creating new realities and new representations through media..This building can help apply their intellect and creativity, and I expect them to be the leaders of the future to actually help define what the industry can become."

Mar. 17, 2014

Along with celebrating the achievement of completing the building, the event called for a celebration of the alumni and current students who are currently making an impact in the Entertainment Industry during an evening reception.

impression of the building MFA student Heather Fipps remarked, “Wow, I’m so jealous I’m not starting right now.” She also stated how excited she is for the building and how it’s going to be a great facility for students to utilize.

Past alumni who stopped by included three Emmy Award Winners as well as past students who are now working in the television and film industry such as Colin Taylor who presently works as an Editor and Colorist of the seventh season of “Sunday’s Best” on BET’s celebration of Gospel Shows. Taylor, who created the University Times’ first news show on campus in 1986, expressed how impressive the new building is because the department in general back then was very small. Having being their first time walking around the new building, many of the alumni that were present that evening wished they were still students so they could experience learning in a state-of-the-art facility. When asked about her first

Fipps, who is almost finished with her thesis as an MFA student and who also worked on the Student Production Unit’s project with the Eco Car 2 PSA advised students to “Get involved as much as possible and pursue your own projects. Learn from your mistakes and also from your successes.” Similarly, many of the alumni present that evening took a stroll down memory lane when it came to speaking about their experiences as a student and what they were able to gain from those experiences working in the real world. Laurie Lopez-Trixier, a Radio and Broadcasting alum from 1987 reminisced, “The experience at Cal State LA was great, and very hands-on. The classes were small, you learned a lot, and I can say that it’s the exact same way in the real world. “ Lopez-Trixier has won an Emmy for her

Julian Gomez speaks to student Yzzy Gonzalez Photo by Timmy Truong

work with Fox 11’s Tony Valdez in producing a show called “Midday Sunday” on the network. CSULA alum and three-time Emmy Award Winner for his editing work on “The Amazing Race,” Julian Gomez humorously compared re-visiting

campus to the film, The Time Machine: “I felt like the guy who in 1898 walked in and it’s somehow 1972, everything has changed, but some things are kinda the same…I had the

TVFM Center Continued on Page 7

Mar. 17, 2014

University Times

President William A. Covino | Photo by Timmy Truong Professor Barry Gordon | Photo by Timmy Truong

Guests mingling Photo By Timmy Truong

TVFM Center center’s Hall of Fame, where Continued from Page 6 film posters from the projects same experience and I remember it fondly.” Gomez, who was awarded with a plaque by Dr. Robert Vianello and Dr. Ramirez for his contributions to CSULA and to the community advised, “Don’t quit. If the little voice comes in and says that you should be reasonable and stop, don’t listen to it, because you put yourself out there for a reason… so, no matter what, don’t quit.” Gomez, along with Barry Gordon were among the two alumni present that evening who signed their posters in the

of past alumni are displayed.

Barry Gordon, an alumni who was the President of the Screen Actors Guild at some point in his career and who is also a current Professor at CSULA of Political Science and Television/Film said, “Take advantage of everything that this school has to offer.” With the help of this new building on campus, many faculty, alumni, and students hope that it can help inspire, contribute to the community, and help maintain Los Angeles’ reputation as the Entertainment Capital of the world.

Alumni Wall of Fame| Photo by Timmy Truong

Dean of the College of Arts and Letters Peter McAllister Photo By Timmy Truong New Editing Bays | Photo by Timmy Truong

University Times

Mar. 17, 2014

LA ONDA

La Hookah: Un peligroso pasatiempo estudiantil NOTICIAS

Por Rosalía Hernández y Daisy Cervantes Contribuyentes Muchos la consumen pero pocos saben el daño que puede causar a la salud. Últimamente la hookah se está convirtiendo en más que una moda entre los estudiantes universitarios. Según un sondeo de Primack, uno de cada tres estudiantes universitarios ha fumado o fuma hookah. La apertura de establecimientos comerciales que se dedican a la venta y al consumo de la misma han hecho de este pasatiempo una atracción común entre la población estudiantil. Una encuesta reveló que la mayoría de los estudiantes que fuman hookah no están al tanto de los efectos negativos que este hábito tiene en la salud.

Johanna Torres, estudiante de CSULA con especialización en negocios, también compartió su experiencia sobre su viaje de estudios a Corea, “aprendí mucho acerca de las diferentes culturas, la comida, el idioma, y hasta un poco de la historia.”

“Yo no sabía que fumar hookah era peor para la salud que fumar cigarrillos,” comentó Luis Montelongo, estudiante de CSUN. En contraste con la creencia popular de que la hookah no tiene efectos nocivos, un estudio de la Academia Americana de Pediatría reveló que la hookah es más peligrosa que el tabaco convencional. El uso recreativo de hookah en establecimientos públicos representa un gran riesgo para la salud, ya que sus consumidores estan expuestos a contraer Hepatitis C o Herpes simple, debido a la forma en que comparten las pipas. Otro estudio del Departamento de Salud británico reveló que al fumar hookah, se inhalan niveles de monóxido de carbono mayores al de un cigarrillo convencional. Una

NOTICIAS

sesión promedio de hookah, de entre 45 a 60 minutos, expone a sus consumidores a cantidades de alquitrán y nicotina similares a las de una cajetillas de cigarros. Por otra parte, el humo de la hookah contiene niveles más altos de arsénico, plomo y níquel que el humo de un cigarrillo común. El consumo de hookah tiene sus orígenes en los países de Medio Oriente hace más de quinientos años. Desde su uso tradicional en países como Turquía ha viajado hasta establecimientos en los Estados Unidos con una gran aceptación entre los estudiantes universitarios. “Mis amigos me introdujeron a la hookah en una feria libanesa y me entró curiosidad… desde entonces fumo hookah de vez en cuando” comentó Sergio

Crédito: Aaron Bautista Soto estudiante de CSULA. Sus consumidores, encuentran en la hookah una alternativa al uso del cigarrillo, con variedad de sabores, desde frutas tropicales y dulces a bebidas alcohólicas. Además contiene propiedades relajantes al igual que el cigarrillo. También provee una atracción social para sus consumidores. “Me gusta fumar hookah porque tiene más variedad en sabores

La educacíon brinca fronteras

Por Alicia Soto Contribuyente Solo el uno por ciento de los estudiantes norteamericanos de nivel universitario toman cursos afuera del país. Aunque en los últimos años el número de estudiantes en el extranjero ha aumentado a un tres por ciento, el gobierno considera que los programas internacionales deben ser promovidos todavía más. Al apoyar estos programas existe mayor posibilidad de que los estudiantes tomen ventaja de estas oportunidades. Evan M. Ryan, secretario de Estado para Asuntos Educativos y Culturales, dijo lo siguiente: “La educación internacional promueve la construcción de relaciones y el intercambio de conocimientos entre las personas y las comunidades en los Estados Unidos y alrededor del mundo que son necesarios para resolver los desafíos globales.” De acuerdo al Instituto de

Estudios Internacionales, encargado de conducir estadísticas de americanos estudiando en el extranjero, los tres países a los que más americanos llegan a estudiar son Italia, España y el Reino Unido. Por lo tanto este instituto también examina la experiencia de exalumnos y les hacen preguntas en referencia a sus experiencias en el extranjero; por ejemplo sobre el impacto que tiene en la educación aprender una lengua extranjera o conocer otras culturas. La mayoría de los estudiantes, en un 63 por ciento, consideró esencial esta experiencia. Hoy en día la Universidad Estatal de California en Los Ángeles envía a más de una docena de estudiantes por año a estudiar a otros países. Sin embargo, el dilema que impide a muchos viajar al exterior es el costo de estos programas. Ya sea por un verano, un semestre o un año en el extranjero, un estudiante paga de cuatro mil a veinticinco mil dólares.

Afortunadamente hay ayuda financiera, préstamos y becas que ayudan a los estudiantes a pagar los gastos de matrícula, avión y hospedaje. A través del programa IP (CSU International Programs) las becas del estado mejor conocidas como ‘Cal Grants’ se podrán usar para gastos de estudios internacionales. Así también las becas nacionales como ’Pell Grants’ podrán ser usadas para programas en el extranjero con una estancia de tres a seis meses. Fundaciones como la Benjamin A. Gilman Foundation, también ofrecen ayuda a los estudiantes de grupos minoritarios que desean ampliar su conocimiento. La fecha límite para presentar aplicaciones para estudiar con el programa CSU IP es 15 de Diciembre del 2014. Para más información visite la página http://www.calstate.edu/ip/ prospective-students/index. shtml

en comparación al cigarro… también me relaja cuando estoy con mis amigos,” comentó Karina Millán, estudiante de CSULA. A pesar de los efectos nocivos que la hookah causa en la salud de sus consumidores, aun no tiene una asociación negativa en nuestra sociedad. Su historia y tradición es tan popular que se impone sobre los consejos por el bien de la salud.

René González, de la carrera de criminología en CSULA, pasó un año en Corea y nos dijo lo siguiente, “Este programa me ayudó a crecer como persona. Ahora deseo seguir viajando para conocer a más gente de diferentes culturas.’’

Mar. 17, 2014

University Times

Can You Buy Me an (Energy) Drink? HEALTH

Samantha Carlson Contributor It’s getting to be that time of quarter, the finals week. Ten weeks flies by while tying to keep up with studies and it’s hard to believe that time is up when finals become a reality. For students who have not kept up with work during the quarter, cramming becomes a necessity in order to pass classes. The crunch time of the three P’s are present, papers, presentations, and projects. These are all due, plus final exams to study for can all lead up to a very long and stressful week. How do students manage to keep up with everything? How can they find the energy and focus to survive finals in one piece, and at the end get good grades? Exercise, meditation, good study habits throughout the quarter are great remedies, however the fast paced nature of a quarter system can creep up on students who don’t prepare. Drinking energy drinks is just one alternative students can use to get through the nights and finals week. Energy drinks are everywhere on campus, from the bookstore, the multiple vending machines placed around campus and inside the library

eating area, there is an energy drink for everyone. In the vending machine outside of King Hall the Rockstar brand of energy drink flavors are; sugar free, zero carb, energy punch, recovery, and energy/ hydrate. When asked about energy drinks, Music Performance major Andres Carey-Zuniga said, “I think they are more a mental game than anything else, I don’t put a lot of stock into them, I find they haven’t been effective for me, Monster, Amp, or 5 hour energy drink. I would find that within an hour of taking them, I would fall asleep in the middle of studying.” Some facts about caffeine (one of the leading ingredients in energy drinks) taken from the University of Florida’s website states, “Caffeine’s effect on the body varies from person to person, depending on various factors such as weight, gender, and individual sensitivity to caffeine. Recent research suggests that caffeine’s antioxidant effects may help protect people from diseases such as Alzheimer’s when consumed in moderate amounts (León-Carmona & Galano, 2011). Caffeine can make you feel more alert and has been shown to help exercise endurance, but it can also have some negative side effects, such as

heart palpitations and insomnia in some people who get too much (Laurent, 2000).”

Psychology major, Arutyua Simonyon, said this about the effects of energy drinks, “I just don’t like the after effect of my heart beating fast.” Simonyon says she drinks energy drinks. “Once every few months, and one sip of energy drink and half a liter of water, will last me two weeks, but it’s very rare for me to drink it, I feel like water gives me energy.” In an article on WebMD, board-certified specialist in sports dietetics Sass writes, “Most of the energy drinks contain hightech-sounding ingredients that are not controlled substances of no value, and potentially harmful” and in large amounts, adds Cynthia Sass, MPH, MA, RD, a board-certified specialist in sports dietetics. Also trying to figure out exactly how much of each stimulant is contained in an energy drink can be difficult, she says. “The amount of the stimulants is not always listed on the label, and even when the information is listed, it is hard for consumers to interpret because we are not familiar with these ingredients,” says Sass. Some of the common ingredients in energy drinks are; Caffeine, Guarana, Sugars, Taurine, Ginseng, B vitamins and other additives. The names are familiar, but what they actually do, and what they are remains a mystery to consumers. Here is a short breakdown of what they are:

Caffeine: A bitter substance found in coffee, tea, soft drinks, chocolate, kola nuts, and certain medicines. It has many effects on the body’s metabolism, including stimulating the central nervous system. This can make you more alert and give you a boost of energy. Guarana: Also known as Brazilian cocoa, guarana is a plant from South America that contains a caffeine compound called guaranine. One gram of guarana is equal to 40 mg of caffeine. But even if it’s in energy drinks, it’s typically not included in the total caffeine tally. Taurine: As one of the most common amino acids in the body, taurine can support brain development and regulate the body’s mineral and water levels, and could even improve athletic performance. It’s found naturally in meat, seafood and milk. Ginseng: Ginseng is an herbal preparation derived from the aromatic root of a plant of the genus Panax, which is native to East Asia. Public Health major, Christina Tagalyan stated, “Now I drink Starbucks Double Shot Energy Mocha, I use it to stay awake and study for the 21 units I am taking and working.” When asked when she uses energy drinks, Tagalyan replied, “I usually drink them around midterms and finals.” About the taste, Tagalyan says, “I used to drink Monster and

Spring Into New Music ENTERTAINMENT Christine Tran Contributor

In the true Southern Californian style, our transition from Winter to Spring never fails to feel more like Winter rushing straight into Summer. With the new change of constant sun and lovely blue skies, our spirits are lifted and our music library’s “recently played” should match the feeling and change too! It’s time to get rid of the cloudy and dreary numbers that makes you want to cry. The following 7 musicians, both old and new, are great additions to the Spring/Summer playlists you are preparing for Spring Break . The first band, Kodaline, is a Dublin based indie/alternative rock band that is perfect for studying for the upcoming finals and late night drives. With a soothing voice from lead sing-

er Steve Garrigan and instruments that will hit you straight in the feels, Kodaline is a band to definitely give a listen to. Song I recommend: “All Comes Down” Next we have an American native from Illinois who goes by the name of Andrew Belle. With many songs that have been used in numerous angsty TV shows, you have probably heard a song of his before but was never able to put a face to the tune. Compared to his first album, “The Ladder” mainly made up of amazing vocals with an acoustic guitar in the background, his second album, “Black Bear” gives you more of an electric dreamy feel from the use of the synthesizer that will immediately get you hooked. Song I recommend: “Pieces”

Redbull, but this tastes better, and this one has vitamins, it has 40% of Calcium and 20% of Vitamin D, but I don’t know if it’s good for you.” The ingredients in the Starbucks Double Shot Energy Mocha drink are; Maltodextrin, Taurine, Insitol, Panax Ginseng, and Guarana. When asked if she knew what they were, she stated, “Well, they have a lot of caffeine, most energy drinks do, and a lot of ingredients that I don’t know about and is probably bad for me.” Tagalyan started drinking energy drinks early and says, “When I was in high school because I have a bad tendency of overloading myself with classes, and at the time I was going to high school and taking college classes at the same time. I usually drank one at night to stay awake and another in the morning when I drove to school to be safe.” Being in college she says, “I do feel a difference when I’m older, I know I need to manage my time better, I don’t use it to stay awake the whole night, but now I use it for energy.” There are negative side effects related to energy drinks Tagalyan stated, “I failed a test one time because my brain was tired.” After taking it, the body can crash and heartbeats can become irregular, headaches, restlessness, and insomnia can occur. Simonyan states, “Drink water, not energy drinks, mind over matter.” So with or without the aid of energy drinks, good luck to everyone during Finals!

For a more upbeat artist that will make you want to dance, the next three artists are for you. San Cisco, Geographer, and Discovery are American and Australian bands that will automatically give you a summer feel the moment you press play. As indie pop/electronic bands, the sound from these three bands range from being heavily guitar driven to synth pop, but I can guarantee you that every single song will get you to at least move your head to the beat. Songs I recommend: “Fred Astaire” by San Cisco “Kites” by Geographer “Can You Discover?” by Discovery For the rest of the article and an 8tracks of the playlist, visit the UT blog at csulauniversitytimes.com

University Times

Being Safe While Hiking NEWS

Mayra Montoya Contributor Hiking seems to be LA’s exclusive “work out” choice and the lovely weather makes great opportunities to enjoy the sun. Although hiking might seem like second nature to some Angelenos, it’s important to always be fully prepared. On Sunday, March 9th a man died on the famous Runyon Park hike where he collapsed and died before paramedics could assist. There has been no news on what caused his death, but one should still take measures to stay safe at all times by hiking with a companion and taking a cellphone. The Department of Parks and Recreation suggests hikers should follow these tips: Hike with a friend or family

member. Take plenty of drinking water. Let someone back at camp or at home know where you are going and when you plan on returning. Take a mobile phone for emergencies only and let someone know you have returned safely. Don’t walk off-trail. Cutting across switchbacks erodes the hillside and eventually destroys the trail. Plus, walking off-trail increases your chance of suffering an injury or getting lost. Poison oak is a common plant throughout much of California. Learn to identify its shiny, three-leaf pattern and avoid touching it. If you touch poison oak, wash immediately with water and mild soap. Pat dry with a clean towel. Wildlife

Mar. 17, 2014 lives in all of our state parks, even urban areas. Although rare, black bears, mountain lions, and rattlesnakes may be seen. Whenever you encounter wildlife on the trail, keep your distance back away slowly, and do not run. Report your sightings to a State Park Ranger. Additionally, there has been many wild life encounters in Southern California. Coyotes are frequently spotted in places like Griffith Park and mountain lions have killed many pets in the last few months in the Pasadena, Glendale and Burbank hills. Bears have also scared homeowners in Pasadena and neighboring towns by getting extremely close to homes. Always practice caution as you are in their territory and these animals are extremely dangerous. Go hike and stay safe!

Hello UT Readers!

Good luck on finals everyone! Get A's on those tests and have a wonderful break! Corrections from Issue 205.10 On Page 4, the photo credit should be given to Ana Corella.