Driftwood Volume 58 Issue 9

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DRIFTWOOD Volume: 58 Issue: 9

The community newspaper of the University of New Orleans

driftwood.uno.edu

October 29, 2014

No Woman’s Land

Kristi Martin/Driftwood photo illustration

Engineering is slowly becoming a more female friendly major at the University of New Orleans. About 20 percent of engineering majors are women.

Female engineering students work against STEM stereotypes ANNA GOWIN

Driftwood Staff Parisa Ghandehari’s mother always hoped she would take to a more feminine career than engineering. The University of New Orleans engineering management graduate student has not only had to earn the support of her family, but also her fellow students, professors and potential employers in a very male-dominated industry.

“Sometimes it’s hard, being in the environment, difficult when some men don’t accept you as a real engineer,” Ghandehari said, adding she at times throughout her undergrad career thought her mother might be right.

Ghandehari is one of about 1,000 students enrolled in the College of Engineering – and one of 150 that are women.

But it’s not because they can’t do the math.

Kris De Welde, professor of sociology at Florida Gulf Coast University, said despite a “cultural recognition” that more women

it’s important to “pay should be accepted attention to the climate into STEM (Science, and environment girls Technology, EngineerEngineering Enrollment find themselves in when ing, and Mathematics) they get to college…if careers, girls’ interests Males to Females we don’t address it at the lower significantly in Freshmen: 223 M; 32 F undergraduate level, we high school and beSophomores: 125 M; 28 F still run the risk of losing yond.

Juniors: 139 M; 21 F Seniors: 250 M; 46 F Ghandehari not only women,” Post-Baccaulaureate: 72 M; wants to be successThis is something 19 F ful among her male Ghandehari sees as parGraduate: 165 M; 34 F counterparts, but also ticularly important when encourages women to she interacts with female pursue engineering as a career and mentors students in the Engineering Department. her fellow female students.

“Sometimes guys give them a hard time, “I really enjoy being an engineer, and I want and I always encourage them, and tell them to girls to know that being an engineer doesn’t look at all these women who have done this present any conflict with being a woman,” already,” she said. she said. “In fact, it goes in line with it.”

Cynthia Nolan, a freshman in the Naval ArKelly Mack, vice president of undergrad- chitecture and Marine Engineering (NAME) uate STEM education at the Association of program, embraces being the minority in her American Colleges and Universities, said chosen field.

By the Numbers

“When you tell them, ‘Oh, I’m an engineering major too.’ a lot of boys are startled,” she said. “But sometimes they’re so excited to see a girl in their class full of men.”

While male students may react a certain way to seeing female students in their engineering classes, male professors and administrators act differently to place focus on female student retention.

Nolan said during orientation, the head of the NAME program talked to her personally about how important it was that she be happy in the department and hopefully stay there.

“It makes other girls, students in the department, see their future here,” Ghandehari said. “They see that this is not a road that hasn’t been used before. Other women have done this and gone places and they can do the same.”

Continued on Page 5

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Wednesday, October 29, 2014

NEWS

US tops list of nation with high student debt Liz Trahan

Driftwood Staff

Exchange student David Messner said university tuition in his hometown is pocket change compared to what University of New Orleans students pay. In fact, university students in the United States not only pay higher costs, but graduate with more debt.

A scholarship offered through the Innsbruck Exchange program allowed Messner to take English and Geography courses at UNO to practice his English at a reduced rate, yet it does not compare to the cost of tuition per semester in Austria.

Messner said the fees add up to the cost of just €18.50 or $23.60, in Tyrol, Austria.

When asked why tuition was so low, Messner said, “because it is supported by the Austrian government. There are 43 other German and Austrian students studying at UNO. They (the Austrian Government) also pay the fees for us.”

“Global Debt Patterns,” a study conducted by the Educational Policy Institute which compared findings of student debt in six countries, explained how countries keep tuition low or free for students and prevent debt repayment from becoming a nightmare.

In Australia, financial aid is divided into two parts that cover living expenses as a grant and tuition as a loan to be repaid. Students are not charged until after graduation, and the repayment plan is based on the graduate’s income. Tuition repayment is taken out of taxes. If a graduate makes less than the threshold amount, however, the graduate does not make any payment.

Germany allows graduates a grace period of five years, and another 20 years to repay student loans. The obligation to repay the

loan is waived if the graduate’s income is too low, if the graduate is supporting children under 10 years old or handicapped, or if only marginally employed.

There are great incentives for students while still in school. First, there is loan forgiveness for the payment that exceeds €10,000. For students in the top 30 percentile of their class, they receive 15 to 25 percent loan remission. Remission is also given to students who have completed their programs early.

Many countries work to keep education funded while simultaneously keeping student debt from being an unreasonable burden. The study indicated Swedish students graduate, on average, with much higher levels of student debt than students in other countries, but their debt burdens are comparatively very mild because of the very low interest rates they pay and because of the very long loan repayment period they are afforded.

The study never boosted a country’s debt policy over another and argued student loan programs are relative to a student’s income and outstanding debt. For example, “Given the conditions on debt and income set here, the UK, Australia, and Canada—the three countries with the most generous loan income thresholds—are probably the best places to be if one is a borrower with low income and high debt.”

The problem in Canada is when a graduate’s income rises even slightly, the graduate is then expected to pay the loan in full. However, the US is the worst place to have a low income and high debt. In no other country do repayments of students in this position exceed six percent of income, whereas in the US, the proportion can be as high as 15.3

David Messner working in the UNO Innsbruck office. percent. The study is accessible online for further reading about international debt, http://educationalpolicy.org.

Andrew Rossi, director of Ivory Tower documentary, said the US debt is due to the business mentality of the universities. “What we’re really looking at is a business model in higher education that encourages a growth to become bigger and better which allows universities to attract student loan dollars and is creating perverse incentives in the classroom in addition to this terrible student debt crisis,” said Rossi in an interview with the Public Broadcasting Service (PBS). He explained universities use market-

Liz Trahan/ Driftwood

ing techniques like branding, the appearance of the facility, football teams and student life to attract 17 and 18 year olds, instead of academic standings.

Much of student life is attributed to student debt. Graduate student Amanda McGilvray spent a semester in Innsbruck and also works as a graduate assistant for the Innsbruck program. She noticed the lack of student activities on the Innsbruck campus. McGilvray said students from Innsbruck are surprised when they see the excitement that is football games and school activities.

“That’s part of what keeps the tuition low,” said McGilvray.

Grant provides opportunity to train students in child development Charles Nicholson Driftwood Staff Chair of the Department of Special Education and Habilitative Services Linda Flynn-Wilson has recently been awarded a five year $1.2 million grant to train new educators in Early Intervention, a program that assists children from birth to five years that have disabilities.

The new grant will augment the University of New Orleans’ special education program in order to get more well-trained teachers involved in early child development.

Flynn-Wilson said this isn’t the first time she’s been awarded a grant, but it’s the first time she’s been acknowledged for it.

“Recently, UNO has been on a mission to acknowledge good work, such as when someone is awarded a grant,” said Flynn-Wilson.

Flynn-Wilson has received many grants from $800,000 to over $1 million.

The program is available for graduate students with a major in early childhood special education.

Those looking to obtain a certifica-

tions degree will have 18-24 credit hours and for the master’s degree, up to 36 credit hours.

Teachers who get certified through the program will be qualified to work at institutions such as preschools, childcare services, public, private and charter schools in addition to other places.

Students enrolled will receive a stipend of $9,000 to $18,000 that goes toward their studies. This program also includes a contract that assures two years in the field for every year of study.

Flynn-Wilson said that the program will be inclusive. “We have a large population of African American, Vietnamese, and Latino families in the New Orleans area,” said Flynn-Wilson. “Because of this, we infuse diversity in what we teach so that students are also knowledgeable in different cultures in relation to child development.”

Flynn-Wilson is hoping that this new grant will bring in new, better trained educators in the child development field. “Every state has services for child development,” said Flynn-Wilson. “We just don’t have enough people trained in the field.”

University of New Orleans special education professor Linda Flynn-Wilson has received a 5-year $1.2 million grant from the U.S. Department of Education to train educators to work with young children with disabilities.

OPINION

Wednesday, October 29, 2014

Being a woman is a non-issue Christy Lorio Editor-in-chief

Strong Enough to fight gender expectations Kristi Martin Managing Editor

I should have been Kevin Charles. That would have been my name if I had been the son my dad always needed on our 500-plus acre farm.

No offense to Kevin Charles, but I think I did pretty much everything that would have been expected of him and probably did it better.

My daddy raised me to not depend on a man for anything. I can perform routine maintenance on my car. I can mow the yard. I can fix a toilet. I can load my own handgun. I know to keep my back straight while doing squats.

And the list goes on. I know these are typical man things, but I’m proud that I can do them. I embrace my tomboyishness.

Well into my adult life, I continued to be the guy’s girl. I spent time in the shop, in the mud, at the drag strip, at the firing range… I thought it was cool that I could impress a guy with my knowledge of Chevrolet versus Ford engines.

Until I realized I had eliminated my dating pool considerably. Most men don’t like a woman knowing more about their truck than they do.

It takes a very strong woman to confidently walk into a service station and explain to the mechanic why a repair is not necessary. It takes a strong woman to work the crime beat for a newspaper, riding with cops and looking at dead bodies. It takes a strong woman to change her major from marketing to engineering.

And it takes a man stronger than her to be her partner. (Maybe that’s why I’m twice divorced.) Last summer, Sheryl Crow’s “Strong Enough” suddenly became one of many gauges of measurement for potential boyfriends.

Before I enrolled at UNO, I had taken the civil service test in preparation to join the Shreveport Police Department. I wanted to prove that I could be one of the guys in a physical career. I eventually wanted to move into the vice unit - I thought it would be fun to be an undercover prostitute.

I quickly came to my senses and realized I didn’t want to get shot at for minimal pay and moved here, enrolling in the marketing program. I figured it would be easy with my journalism experience. Apparently, it’s too easy.

I miss having to strive above to prove not only to myself but to everyone that I can outdo any man at anything.

Well, maybe not anything. I’ll never be able to bench press a Buick, but mentally I’m just as capable as anyone with a Y chromosome.

Now that I’ve proved to myself Satan is not in algebra, I’m doing what I should have done all along and changing to a major that will put me as a girl in a guy’s world again - my comfort zone. All those hours elbow deep in the engine of that old Camaro has got to be worth something in seeking an engineering degree right?

Not every woman wants to go outside of the box and work with a bunch of stinky men - maybe they are more interested in having the kids rather than being the majority provider for them or maybe they’re just not as comfortable in that masculine environment.

I feel that since I am a firm believer in the female “can do” attitude, it’s my responsibility to cross the gender role border and help pave the way for women behind me. I hope by not being afraid to meet and battle female stereotypes head on, maybe it won’t be so foreign should my niece, your little sister, your daughter decide to design cars even if it’s as simple as Barbie’s Corvette.

Corrections Corrections from Volume: 58 Issue: 8 October 22, 2014 Article titled “Mini-sessions maximize time spent in college” by Aubrey Saunders The calendar dates for mini-session academic appointments, such as registration and start dates, do appear in the student calendar.

Mini-sessions are a new offering for Fall and Spring semesters. Previously mini-sessions were only offered in the summer.

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When I was a kid I spent as much time fishing with my dad as my brother did. Growing up with Jean Lafitte National Park for a backyard, we knew our way around a pirogue and learned how to pucker our lips to make the alligator mating call before we learned how to do long division in math class. The only person who got more strike outs in softball (or baseball) than I did was my brother, but we could both cut a wake on water skis like we were torpedoes on the bayou. I don’t know if it was because I was the oldest of three kids or just the way my dad treated us kids all the same, but I’ve never felt like I was missing out on opportunities because I’m a woman, and I’ve certainly always felt equal to men.

When I got married, I didn’t change my last name. It was such a non-issue that we barely discussed it, if the subject even came up. It never occurred to me that not changing my last name could have been perceived as a feminist stance; it was just my choice to make. I do have to confess though that after ten years of marriage I still get a kick out of receiving junk mail addressed to Mr. and Mrs. Lorio.

As an adult, I’ve never thought twice about walking to

my car at night by myself. The one time someone tried to mug me I fought back, so the bastard didn’t get my purse. I didn’t feel like he targeted me because I was a woman; he saw an opportunity for some free cash and tried to take it. I was mostly mad because he ripped my 1970s era vintage coat, a hand-me down from my mother.

That’s not to say that I’ve never been discriminated against or harassed. When I worked as a fine dining waitress in the French Quarter, I certainly saw my share of men behaving badly. I’ve been felt up and had my butt grabbed by customers. I felt violated, but I didn’t dwell on it.

I mostly felt bad for the men and how desperate they must have been if they were hitting on a 20 something wearing a three piece polyester tuxedo.

To be honest, I feel a little ridiculous just writing this column since it’s such a non-issue for me. I realize that my experience as a woman is just that; it’s mine, and I am grateful that I personally don’t feel held back because I’m a woman. Oppression is real, but it’s also a state of mind. I never stop and think “Gee, I wonder if I can or can’t do something because I’m a woman.” To quote pop culture, I’ll just keep doing me.

THE DRIFTWOOD UNODriftwood UNODriftwood UNODriftwood

The Driftwood is the student run offi cial publication for the University of New Orleans. It is published weekly and distributed at 24 newsstands on and off campus on Wednesdays.

The newspaper does not publish editions the week of midterms, fi nals, Thanksgiving and fall break.

All submissions are subject to editing by Driftwood Staff.

The driftwood offi ce is located in room 252 of the University Center, 2500 Lakeshore Drive University Center 252 New Orleans, LA 70148

Staff Christy Lorio Editor in chief Kristi Martin Managing Editor Abraham Thacker Business Manager Pawan Aryal Layout Editor Ashley deBaroncelli Visuals Editor Aviayna Thomas Copy Editor

Staff may be reached by phone at 504-280-6377 or email driftwoodeditor@uno.edu or online at www.driftwood.uno. edu.

Kerry Leigh Pittenger Office Manager

Ad sales inquiries should be directed to driftwoodads@uno. edu

Vickie Kennedy Faculty Adviser

Willie Marsalis Distribution Manager

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CAMPUS EVENTS

Wednesday, October 29, 2014

Lee joins SG to effect change at UNO Senator concerned about parking lot conditions Liz Trahan Driftwood Staff “I got a bill passed last semester for laptops for the Chemistry lab and I still haven’t received funding.

I pushed for it all summer. Where’s my money or laptops?”

The first Senate meeting of the Student Government faced instant tension when graduate student Alex Lyons asked the whereabouts of the laptops he was promised. It was the same feeling of frustration Senator Violet Lee felt that moved her to take proactive measures.

Sen. Lee transferred from Delgado to the University of New Orleans in the fall of last year, and now studies and does research as a senior in the College of Science and works in the Chemistry office. Although Lee has been a UNO student for a short time, she was not hesitant to speak out against the state of the parking lot nearest the science buildings.

“It’s in terrible, atrocious form,” Lee said Tuesday, October 21.

“There are potholes, and if it rains there is flooding in the pot holes.

That’s stagnant water; mosquitoes

grow in stagnant water. Just try driving around in there. It’s a liability to the university.” Lee is also unhappy with the aspect of UNO’s appearance. “As a research university, we have really big names that come to speak at our university. If they had to park back there, it reflects poorly on the university.”

“I just wanted gravel relayed and evened out,” Lee continued. She said has worked hard to see funding go to improving campus, which she pointed out is why the funds are there. So far, Lee has written a resolution and three work orders.

The resolution, she explained, needs a majority vote from the senate and the president’s signature before it is moved to be reviewed by the administration. The intent of the resolution is to explain the issue to UNO’s administration in hopes of a solution. “I could have easily written a bill through Student Government to get funding approved. I didn’t think it was fair for me to ask for SG money that was purposely in place to take care of the students like events - and help nurture their university experience.” Of the work

CRIME ON CAMPUS

Lights & Sirens •A person reported losing her three university keys. She last had them on October 16 at 4:30 p.m.

•Two complainants reported parking their vehicles at the Engineering Shell Parking Lot on October 17 at 10:25 a.m. with no damage. Upon returning to their vehicles at 2:30 p.m., they observed their rear windows shattered.

•A victim reported that he left his

vehicle in the Privateer Place parking lot at 11 p.m. on October 20 and returned at 12:10 p.m. on October 21 to find it broken into with property stolen.

•A victim reported that she returned to her car on October 21 at 4:30 p.m. in the Privateer Parking Lot to find it had been hit and damaged.

No witnesses were located.

Compiled by Charles Nicholson

Kristi Martin/ Driftwood

Recent snack machines break-in force campus to add preventative measures.

orders she submitted three weeks ago, one was for the parking lot, and two were for other infrastructure concerns. “This is a facility services issue. That is something the administration needs to address.”

“There has to be a more efficient way this can be run,” said Lee. Her reasons for joining SG were prompted by Lyons’ and her own frustration. She was unanimously appointed to her position in early September. “Alex is a good friend of mine. He got a bill approved for the computers; it was two computers that were going to be put in our tutoring center. Funds have been released to Swamp Ball and to cater events. Well, that [the computer bill] was approved in April, and it is now 6 months later, and we have yet to see anything.”

Instead of fighting against the system, Lee joined it. “It’s not going to change anything by you just complaining about it and not doing anything about it, so I became proactive. I joined SG because that’s the protocol.”

Liz Trahan/ Driftwood

Violet Lee Chemistry Senior, “ I joined to be representative of my college.”

Campus Calendar Wednesday, October 29 Monkey Movie Night Anthropology 2051 students view primate documentaries every Wednesday night from 6 - 8 p.m. in Milneburg Hall room 179. For more information contact the Anthropology department at 504-280-6294.

Take Back the Night Marchers from New Orleans colleges and communities gather from 6 - 8 p.m. at the Loyola University Horseshoe to hear survivors of sexual violence tell their stories and proceed with a candle-lit march. Event designed to heighten awareness of sexual violence and empower survivors.

Thursday, October 30 NPHC Campus Clean-Up National Panhellenic Council hosts campus-wide clean-up.

Meet at the amp at 12 p.m. For more information email greeklife@uno.edu.

Breast Man on Campus Zeta Tau Alpha hosts annual Breast Man on Campus competition! Nominate a guy you think has a nice chest and send to mmazzoch@uno.edu. Visit the event Facebook page for more info at https://www.facebook. com/events/824079164289994/ The Tocqueville Project Seminar Series Presents: “Individualistic Perfectionism” Event from 5 - 6 p.m. in Kirschman Hall room 401. The Tocqueville Project sponsors public lectures, debates, panel discussions and academic seminars aimed at advanced undergraduate students, graduate students, and faculty members.

Event is open to the public and free of charge.

NPHC Kickback NPHC hosts a kick back from 6 -

8 p.m. at Pontchartrain Hall. Free food, drinks and music. For more information email greeklife@ uno.edu.

SAC’s Great Drive-In Movie Double Feature from 7 - 11 p.m. at The Cove.

Friday, October 31 Halloween Bake Sale UNO Honors Program hosts Halloween Bake sale from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. in Earl K. Long Library breezeway. For more information email ebrocato@uno.edu.

NPHC Candy Bag Decorating NPHC hosts candy bag decorating from 12 - 2 p.m. in the Earl K. Long Library breezeway. Make a candy bag and write an inspiring note to women and children of a shelter. For more information email greeklife@uno.edu.

Spooky Student Recital Hour UNO Music students perform creepy music from 2 - 3 p.m. in the Performing Arts Center Recital Hall. For more information call 504-280-6381.

Saturday, November 1 NPHC Fraternity Basketball Tournament The NPHC fraternities basketball tournament check-in is at 4 p.m. in the Human Performance Center. Games start at 5 p.m. Eight people per team at $10 per person. For more info email jeperkin@uno.edu.

Book Signing by Ed Baptist The Ethel and Herman L. Midlo Center for New Orleans Studies sponsors a book signing by Ed Baptist from 2 - 4 p.m. at Octavia Books. For more information contact Connie Atkinson, Midlo Center for New Orleans Studies, University of New Orleans at c.atkinson@uno.edu.

Sunday, November 2

New Orleans Concert Band Concert

The New Orleans Concert Band performs from 3 - 4:30 p.m. in the Performing Arts Center Recital Hall.

Monday, November 3 Spring 2015 Graduate Degree Candidates: Candidacy Forms Due

Candidate Plan of Study or Report on General Examination is due for students planning to graduate in May 2015.

Tuesday, November 4 Open Mind Talent Show Open Mind hosts Talent Show from 7:30 - 9:30 p.m. in the University Center Ballroom. For more information email rwimley@uno.edu.

Faculty Recital: Matthew Wright UNO adjunct trombone instructor Matthew Wright gives a faculty recital from 7:30 - 8:30 p.m. in the Performing Arts Center Recital Hall.

Thursday, Nov. 6, Phi Kappa Sigma Cancer walk Phi Kappa Sigma will support the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s (LLS) Light the Night Walk.

The Walk will be held at 3000 Downs Boulevard in Metairie. For more information or to make a donation please visit lightthenight. org/msl a/NOrle ans14/UNOPhiKappaSigma.

Books and Brownies A used book sale and bake sale will be held on Tuesday, November 11 from 10-6 and Wednesday, November 12 from 10-4 on the 4th floor on the UNO Library.

There is a $5 admission fee from 10-noon on Wednesday only, free admission the rest of the time. Sponsored by the Friends of the UNO Library.

Wednesday, October 29, 2014

Willie Marsalis/ Driftwood

The University of New Orleans Jazz All Stars perform at Take Back the Night held Tuesday at the campus amphitheater. The goal of the concert was to unite the UNO community and the New Orleans community in a night event to show support for survivors of sexual assault, create awareness around the issue, and in taking the night for the event, to take a stance against sexual assault.

WOMEN

Continued from Page 1

Nolan has already received internship offers for the future from those eager to work with women.

A study by psychologists at the University of Michigan, Spencer, Steele, and Quinn, suggests this worry is something a lot of women in STEM fields experience because of a direct result of their gender. According to the study, when women are aware of stereotypes about women, such as being the only woman in a team of men, they doubt themselves more than men.

Ghandehari thinks the first step to creating a good environment for female students in the program is

for women to accept themselves.

“If you respect yourself, then men will respect you,” she said.

On the flip side, Nolan said, “I think “I think a lot of men can feel inferior compared to a woman working in such a male-dominated field.”

The X chromosome brings something to the field that the Y’s just don’t have.

“Something I’ve noticed is that women are so accurate, and a lot more sensitive to all of the details,” Ghandehari said. “And this is something that in engineering is very valuable.” And there’s the maternal instinct.

“When we work in teams, I am usually the only woman in the group, and I find myself becoming almost the mom of the team,” Ghandehari said. “I feel obligated to accept the responsibility and worry about decisions.”

While female enrollment numbers may seem low, they are on the upward trend. In 2010, female students made up only 15 percent of engineering enrollment, rather than the almost 20 percent now.

“I’m already seeing that women are going so fast in the field,” Ghandehari says, “I am confident that we are winning this war from men.”

Striving to be an inspiration to women

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In high school there is a time when we choose what we want our career to be. For women the most common major in the science department you will hear Nursing, Dentistry, Doctor, Pharmacist and so on.

I am one of few women who decided to become an engineer. Engineering is a man’s world all in itself.

Women may not have the best of luck going into an engineering major, because of always being compared to the abilities of men. Many people wonder why there are not many women engineers, but fail to realize how much we are looked down upon just because of gender.

It does not matter if a woman ranks at the top of her class, she will always be frowned upon. Some believe that a woman should be at home playing housewife, have a desk job, or any job that isn’t as rigorous as engineering.

I am an engineering major concentrating in computer engineering. Yes, I was and still am nervous and scared of my career choice. I knew coming into this field I would have to work harder and push the extra mile to earn my grade.

Yes, I do get discouraged when I walk into class and all I see are male faces. I am constantly searching for female faces, someone I can share my struggles with as a woman engineer.

I constantly ask myself why I chose this major - what is the purpose of me accomplishing for this field? What is my purpose overall? Do I know what I’m getting myself into?

I’ve always wanted to invent, challenge myself and inspire others, especially other females. Yes, I do know exactly what the road lies ahead of me. I know that in order to set out all these questions I’m constantly asking myself, I have to first accomplish earning my degree. Doing that alone will inspire other females, young and old, to come into this field.

They get the sense of “Yes, if she can do it, I can do it too.”

Ave Maria Bordenave is a member of the Driftwood staff and engineering major.

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Wednesday, October 29, 2014

FEATURES

A St. Charles Avenue and State Street homeowner provides decorations that are nods to local celebrities, movies, politicians, and pop culture references.

Photos by: Veronica Mansell

UNO Freshman creates realistic, gory Halloween ready special effects makeup Liz Trahan

Driftwood Staff

Involved in her high school theatre program for only a year, Emory Jones, a freshman English major, discovered she had a knack for gory special effects makeup.

up and latex to achieve realistic rashes, scars and zombie makeup.

Her prices vary on the size of the piece and the time it takes to complete it. Jones charges $5 for small gashes and $10 for effects that cover part of of the face. Large gashes and full-facepieces cost $15, and will sometimes take an hour to complete.

Jones plans to start working on Halloween day at 6 a.m. Students interested in having their own faux ghastly gashes can reach Jones by email at emoryjones1@gmail.com.

DINE LIKE A PROFESSIONAL UNO Seniors, Juniors, and Grad Students are invited to join us to learn proper dining etiquette and networking tips, all while conversing with UNO Alumni in a relaxed environment.

THE UNIVERSITY of NEW ORLEANS INTERNATIONAL ALUMNI ASSOCIATION

TIP #14 Commit to a firm handshake, eye contact, and a smile!

Professional Etiquette Luncheon

Christy Lorio/ Driftwood

Friday, November 14 12:00 p.m. - 2 p.m.

Homer L. Hitt Alumni and Visitors Center

Emory Jones, UNO Freshman and self taught special effects makeup artist, is available for makeup applications.

Jones’ is entirely self taught; she learned from watching YouTube tutorials on how to create macabre makeup looks. Jones first practiced on herself and her friends. Her realistic gashes and gun shot wounds work spread via word of mouth and social media platforms like Instagram. Now, she has more followers than number of people she knows.

Jones works out of her dorm, and makes calls for those looking for a more dramatic Halloween looks. She uses Ben Nye make-

TIP #22 Prepare for conversation with a few casual non-business topics.

Lunch is complimentary.

Please dress in business attire.

RSVP by Nov. 7 For disability accommodations, contact 504-280-6225.

Christy Lorio/ Driftwood

Emory achieved realistic road rash with the application of makeup and latex.

alumni@uno.edu 504.280.2586 www.UNOAlumni.com/Dine

For career, job seeking, and resume help, visit UNO Career Services in UC 250.

Wednesday, October 29, 2014

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Student Spotlight

MFA Student paints with passion Veronica Mansell Driftwood Staff

Brent Houzenga, an artist and University of New Orleans graduate student, wasn’t sure of the road that lay ahead when a culmination of events brought him to New Orleans over two years ago.

After graduating from Western Illinois University, Houzenga had moved to Des Moines, Iowa to pursue his art. “As a working artist, I was pretty successful, but still

Houzenga works in his Bywater studio.

struggling [in Des Moines]. Then I met a woman who was moving here and made it sound like a good idea,” Houzenga said regarding his move to New Orleans.

The New Orleans art scene welcomed Houzenga, who is currently working on a group show in Central City, where he is planning to “do a little something and call it good.”

His various forms of art include colorful spray paint portraits and uniquely designed art cars.

Houzenga’s vibrantly painted cars reflect his fun and generous side, as he enjoys painting cars by request. “I’ve been doing my own cars for a while, then people started coming out of the woodwork, mainly with beaters, wanting the same thing,” said Houzenga.

This year, UNO welcomed the artist into the graduate program for Fine Arts. Transitioning back to school had its challenges, according to Houzenga. After working as an artist for eight years, writing papers and acclimating his style to fit the curriculum has been difficult at times. “It’s tough being back after doing my thing with painting for years. I returned for the option to teach, in case that’s what I want down the road,” Houzenga said in regards to his plans after grad school.

A mix of grafitti and pop art, Houzenga van displays his artistic style.

Despite the challenges of balancing studies with his work, Houzenga’s positive energy towards art and life is omnipresent. His desire to create as well as his “I’m going to keep doing what I do no matter what, ” motto pushes him forward.

As an artist, Houzenga attributes some of his success to a willingness to put his work out there. “I didn’t wait for endorsements,” he said.

“Selling paintings is great, but it’s really about inspiring other people.

Having your work seen or watching someone affected by it is what fuels

me.” Throughout his life experiences, Houzenga keeps in mind that his art “is a gift and, we’re supposed to share our gifts.”

Some of Houzenga’s early influences include punk rock and comic books. Neither of these forms of entertainment was abundant in his town, so he explored them on his own. “Growing up in a small town, if you wanted anything different, you had to do it yourself. Farmers and hunters aren’t really throwing art or punk shows,” he said.New Orleans has many different pockets

of art, and Houzenga commented on the vast array of opportunities in the city: “From the upper scale like the CAC and Julia, Royal St. to DIY projects and St. Claude, there is a variety of people and art here.”

Houzenga offered advice for aspiring artists and stated, “Do what you do, do it passionately. Go for it, and get it in front of people.”

Check out Brent Houzenga’s upcoming exhibit, Halo Qualia, on November 7 at 8 p.m. at Inner Recess Gallery, located at 1068 Magazine St.

8

Wednesday, October 29, 2014

Halloween Night Veronica Mansell

H

Driftwood Staff

alloween is a magical holiday that just gets better with age.

Trick-or-treating was great as kids, but the night doesn’t lose mystery or fun as we get older, especially in New Orleans. No city rivals us in costumes, parties a n d

good times. Halloween is another opportunity to show off our funky, fun over-the-top side.

There is an abundance of happenings on any given weekend in New Orleans, as one might imagine, and Halloween night hosts a plethora of events for every type of “spirit.”

Perfect your costume, grab your friends, and thank whatever deity allowed Halloween to fall on a Friday this year. It’s time decide what to do on this hallowed night.

Frenchmen Street - All roads lead to Frenchmen St. in the Marigny on Halloween. Start the night with

cooler, bar hop for live music, or just stroll the street for wild sights.

A costume is a must! Everyone dresses . The last performances end around 11 p.m. leaving plenty of time to check out other festivities.

All ages. Single Day- $73, Weekend Pass (3 day ticket) - $195.

One Eyed Jacks - It’s the return of the living “Quintron and Ms. Pussycat” for the Halloween Show at the French Quarter venue. Rock out with the duo as they celebrate Halloween with a new album and guests, Ballzack and Manatees.

Expect bizarre musical surprises, dancing, puppets, costumes and talent for days. 18up on Frenchmen.

Costumes range from extremely elaborate to incred-

ibly clever to the last minute sexy costume in a bag. Whether Frenchmen is the main destination or a stop along the way, the street never disappoints.

Voodoo Fest - City Park’s threeday festival begins on Halloween.

A few of Friday night’s headliners include: Foo Fighters, Outkast, Skrillex, Slayer, Pretty Lights, Artic Monkeys. Costumes are welcomed but not expected+ Doors @ 9 p.m.

Tickets- $15 615 Toulouse St, New Orleans, LA 70130. (504) 569-8361 Prytania Theatre- October’s late night movie series ends with everyone’s favorite late night science-fiction/double feature picture show.

Didn’t get the hint? It’s the cult classic The Rocky Horror Picture Show. Boys and girls, strap on the corsets, pull up your thigh-highs,

and bring your bag of props to the midnight showing. For Rocky Horror “virgins” (the affectionate term for a first time viewer): this film is not a spectator

sport. Expect to participate with props and dancing. 18+ Showtimes: 10 p.m. & 12:30 a.m. Purchase $10 tickets in advance at prytaniatheatreneworleans.com, the show sells out quickly.

5339 Prytania St, New Orlea n s , 70115. 504-891-2787

Lestat Coronation Ball – Hosted by the Anne Rice’s Vampire Lestat Fan Club, the 26th annual vampire ball will be held at the Republic.

Anne Rice will be attending the ball this year. Dress code is formal, cocktail or costume. Doors open @ 8 p.m. Tickets - $55.

828 S. Peters St, New Orleans, LA 70130.

Hauntings - Check out one of the area’s haunted houses. The notoriously horrifying House of Shock will close its doors permanently after this Halloween weekend.

Tickets - $25; 319 Butterworth St, New Orleans,

LA 70121. The Mortuary is a haunted attraction located by the “cities of dead” (cemeteries on Canal St). The building is over 100 years old and served as a funeral home for decades, hence the name and creepy factor. Tickets-$25; 4800 Canal St, New Orleans, LA 70119. The French Quarter Haunted Tours are available year-round but are even creepier on Halloween night. Tour the legendary locations of death and spirits, like the Lalaurie Mansion. Free Tours by Foot offers a-pay-what-you-can tour that begins at 7:30 p.m. at the St. Louis Cathedral in the French Quarter.

Wednesday, October 29, 2014

The Cost of Free Laundry

9

Free laundry, but at what price?

Pontchartrain Hall residents enjoy free laundry, frustrated by load lines Breia Gordon

Contributing Reporter

Pontchartrain Hall residents now have the luxury of not payingfor each load of laundry. Thanks to new washers and dryers,.

The hassle of having to wait ing during peak hours can be frustrating, even if they are free.

During the day, it is nearly impossible to find an unoccupied machine. Washers and dryers are usually full with others [students] waiting in line.

Sophomore Christian Gordon said “You’d have to dry clothes more than once in the old dryers. It was sometimes $6 to do one load.

It’s good that they work better and are free but annoying that they are always occupied.”

The new dryers save time and use fewer cycles, but students still spend long hours in the laundry rooms waiting to use them. Some students have resorted to using the laundry room as a study area.

Others leave and return. Those who choose the latter run the risk of returning to incomplete laundry.

Resident assistants have received complaints of students replacing their laundry with others, whether clean or not.

There are also students who leave their clothes in the washers and dryers and don’t return for them. This increases the wait time and adds to overcrowding issues.

When a student doesn’t return for their clothes, those waiting sometimes removes the laundry and places it on top of machines or on tables and chairs. These clothes can be left unclaimed for hours and even days. Management has noted that any clothes left longer than a week will be discarded.

Unattended laundry has also caused problems with students accidentally stealing clothes from the laundry room. Resident assistant Hannah Marcotte thinks that adding security cameras to the laundry room could help track down missing belongings.

“Students usually report that their laundry was stolen, but it’s usually that someone just accidentally took theirs. [With cameras,] we would be able to look back at the cameras but

now we can’t do anything about it,” Marcotte said.

Resident assistants have also noted issues with non-residents attempting to occupy the machines as well. “We’re having problems with people from outside coming in to do their laundry,” Marcotte added.

Resident assistants at the front desk check student IDs of individuals entering the halls, but now have to be especially mindful of those entering with large loads.

To address an issue of students being unfamiliar with the new washing machines, management has posted signs giving directions on how to use them.

As of press time there are no known plans to address overcrowding issues or to install any security equipment.

Student lucks out with available machine

SPORTS

10 Wednesday, October 29, 2014

From the sidelines

Privateers smash rivals at Big Easy Tennis Classic Emmanuel Pepis Contributing Reporter

The New Orleans Privateers women’s tennis team won the team championship and Hafsa Laraibi and Yasmine Rashad took home the doubles title on the final day of the Big Easy Classic at the University Tennis Center on Saturday.

Laraibi and Rashad went 3-0 in doubles on the day, including a strong close in the quarterfinal

against Elena Sava and Juliette Clement of Louisiana-Lafayette in an 8-5 win. The semifinal saw Laraibi and Rashad defeat Southeastern’s tandem of Anna Bryukhova and Renee Villarreal. In the championship, the Privateers duo defeated Hailey Barrett and Habiba Shaker of West Virginia 8-6 to win the doubles bracket.

In singles, Laraibi made a run all the way to the final in Flight 3. On the way, Laraibi defeated two op-

UNO Athletics/Ren O’Rourke

Hafsa Laraibi and her partner Yasmine Rashad won the double titles in the Big Easy Classic

Lady Privateers to hit the road

Emmanuel Pepis Contributing Reporter

The New Orleans Privateers volleyball team (6-19, 0-11 Southland) lost a long first set en route to a 3-1 loss (32-30, 25-16, 18-25, 25-15) against the Incarnate Word Cardinals (7-17, 3-8) in the Dig Pink game on Saturday at the HPC. The Privateers wound up on the short end of an elongated first set.

New Orleans led for the majority of the first set, and had a 24-22 ad-

ponents from Southland foe Southeastern. After Friday’s quarterfinal win over Dany Raygadas in straight sets, Laraibi defeated Avika Sagwal 6-1, 6-3 before falling in the final to Carolina Lewis of West Virginia.

Also finishing well on Saturday was Soledad Calderon Arroyo. After a tough loss knocked Calderon to the consolation bracket, she responded by beating a pair of Jackson State opponents. First in the consolation semifinal, Calderon defeated Bright Phakamad 6-1, 6-1.

Then in the final, Calderon topped Anastasia Zviahintseva in straight sets at 6-3, 6-2.

On the men’s side, it was an allNew Orleans final in Flight 2 of the singles bracket. Blake Gregor defeated his teammate, Giacomo Adoncecchi in three sets (6-4, 3-6, 10-4). That was after Gregor survived a three-set match against Southern Miss’ Chao Yu Huang. On the other side of the bracket, Adoncecchi continued his strong start to the season with a semifinal victory

After being knocked to the consolation bracket, Soledad Calderon defeated a pair of Jackson State opponents. over Pablo Moreno of Troy. semifinal appearance in the conIn doubles, Gregor teamed up solation bracket at the Southern with Rui Silva to get to the final. Regional with a trip to the finals The duo earned two victories, both in Flight 1. Kranz also took the at an 8-6 score line in the quarters first set against Samaha at 6-1, but and semis. However, Gregor and dropped the second set and was just Silva could not get past Moreno and edged 10-8 in the third and final set.

Giovani Samaha of Troy.

Southern Miss wound up winning Timo Kranz followed up his the men’s team title.

vantage. Back-to-back kills though pushed the set to extra rallies. The Cardinals had six service errors, but were able to end the set on a service ace from Shaina Garza at 32-30.

New Orleans conceded a 7-0 run that helped decide the second set.

Trailing 11-8, the Privateers had two attack errors and had another attack blocked at the net. Bryaunea Hall also had two kills in that span to help carry the Cardinals to a 2516 set victory and a 2-0 lead.

In the fourth set, the Privateers kept it close early on, but the Cardinals were able to steadily pull away, using a 6-0 run to cap off the set.

The Cardinals registered a .333 attack percentage on the match and had a 60-42 advantage.

The Privateers were led offensively by Cara Sander who had 12 kills. Rondolyn Bryant added 10 kills and Mikayla Sellers-Wiebe chipped in with nine. Taylor Berry had four total blocks (one solo,

UNO Athletics/Ren O’Rourke

three assist) on the afternoon.

Incarnate Word had three players reach double figures in kills.

Bryaunea Hall had 14 kills and Shaina Garza and Angelique Viduarri each added 13. Madison Williams assisted on 53 of the Cardinals’ 60 kills on the match.

New Orleans will hit the road for four matches before returning home for Senior Night against McNeese State on November 11.

LAGNIAPPE

Wednesday, October 29, 2014

Rants & Raves

Malala Yousafzai, the Pakistani girls’ education activist who survived a Taliban assassination attempt two years ago at age 15, became the youngest ever recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize this month.

She shares the honor with Kailash Satyarthi, an Indian childrens’ rights activist.

Despite being SHOT IN THE HEAD and being downright hated by many across the Middle East, this indefatigable young woman continues to inspire and advocate for women and girls around the world.

I reflect on my own cynicism regarding my education. Although I made good grades, I dropped out

of high school because I was bored and considered myself “oppressed” by the system. Shockingly, the system must not have noticed my tiny, flailing middle fingers because it gave me another chance. At 29, I’m in college pursuing a professional degree courtesy of United States tax payers and as a result, I will contribute more back to the tax base than I ever would have working in the cash economy of Bourbon Street.

Mindy Kaling, actress/ writer/producer/director said in an NPR interview, “I’m an A student, I’m addicted to feedback and I want to please people.

That’s how I got where I am today.” She also busts her ass to do four people’s jobs. The problem with success, to a laissez-faire New Orleanian like me, is that you have to work so hard to get it. Yet, like Mindy, I’ve got some mechanism built into my head to make me an A-student. I don’t think that everyone needs to be an A-student; after all, it’s only the bell curve that

Letter to the Editor It is time that we as Americans take on our civic duty and exercise it to the fullest. We were granted the right to vote at the age of 18 yet, few of us exercise that power.

On November fourth, the election for US senate will be held, and our votes can decide who will represent us and fight for issues we find important. Mary Landrieu supports college students. She has worked to lower interest rates on student loans and increase Pell grants.

Mary Landrieu supports women; she fights for their equality and is a supporter of the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA). She co-sponsored the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act and the Pay Check Fairness Act to help close the pay gap. Mary also co-sponsored the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) reauthorization expanding coverage to immigrant women, college students, and the LGBT community. Her leading opponent voted against women and against students. He voted “NO” to VAWA; he has an anti-reproductive rights record, and he opposes the ERA. Vote for Mary Landrieu. Vote for Students. Vote for women’s rights and equality. we are looking for volunteers on election day to remind there peers to vote. my contact is jrandry@uno.edu for all interested.

Thanks, Jenna Andry Students for Mary

11

Jazz at the Cove

makes me special. In fact, I think that my good grades are a happy byproduct of my semi-serious mental health issues.

Yet I do judge my peers harshly: not in comparison to myself, but to Malala Yousafzai. She does not take this opportunity that we have for granted as we do. Even those of us who show up to class, read the material and do the work do it grudgingly, as a means to an end. Where is the joy in learning for the sake of our curiosity? Where is our pride in discovering deeper thoughts, more nuanced perspectives and subtler discernment? Why is Fox news acceptable?

Despite my potential, I will probably never do anything extraordinary in my life and neither will you.

If I got shot in the head, I would probably just die.

Send your rants and raves or letters to the editor to driftwoodeditor@uno.edu.

Rants and letters may be edited for brevity. Please state if you wish to remain anonymous.

Special guest Tabla player Badal Roy with UNO Jazz students Baker’s Half Dozen (Andrew Coker, Nick Greengard, Matthew Keegan, Sage Newell, Fernando Sanchez, Justin Smith) play Jazz at the Sandbar on October 15.

Yak Attack classes, but still won’t acknowledge my wave to her #whatevermom

waves of the ocean..but true ones stay, like an octopus on your face.

If you want a slutty costume for Halloween, dress up as my Econ professor. He never covers anything important.

According to Dr. Doll only reason students wear suits are for job interviews and court dates.

Sometimes I use long words I don’t fully understand so I sound more photosynthesis.

Squirrels are really just tree kitties

For a mere 10 cents a day you can help a white girl even. Millions of white girls literally can’t. So much in fact, they might literally die.

Women have a higher risk of getting pregnant than men, be careful out there ladies

For the love of God do not wear skinny jeans with Sketchers

He’s the kinda guy who wears cargo shorts and actually uses all the pockets

scooter GIRL IS NOT ON A SCOOTER. TALK ABOUT A PLOT TWIST

That one girl who’s in 3 of my

Friends come and go like the

Turned on my computer and accidentally got a computer science degree from UNO When I do a $3.00+ print job, I leave my blue sheet out to let the ladies know I got stacks $$$ You know you’re in the math building when you see a kid with pants with legs that zip off into shorts Book sale in the bookstore was only two days? Whatever, might as well call themselves Office Depot- all they sell is snacks, office supplies & t-shirts anyway.

12 Wednesday, October 29, 2014