October 2017

September 29, 2017

Campus News p. 6-7 Presidential Update p. 10-11 College: Through the Lenses p. 14-15

USF: An Inside Look

p. 20-29

Side by Side: Marijuana Legalization p. 34-35 Pre Game Rituals p. 38-39

Editorial Board Clarice Swanson

Editor-in-Chief clariceswanson@stfrancis.edu

Mat Tuck

Assistant Editor mathewtuck@stfrancis.edu

Ashley Montgomery

Online Assistant Editor ashleymontgomery@stfrancis.edu

Eva Lopez Benedi

University

USF: An Inside Look

Campus Calendar........................4 RA’s are People Too....................22 Acredidation Update....................5 College Then vs. Now................24 Campus News..............................6 Catholic Students.......................26 Breaking College Stereotypes......27 Thriving in the Dorms...............28 Thriving as a Commuter............29

News

Commentary

World News................................8 DACA at USF.............................30 Presidential Update...................10 Protests: Facts and Fears..............31 GenerationYap!...........................32 Side by Side................................34

Layout Director evalopezbenedi@stfrancis.edu

Ivan Flores

Social Media Director ivanflores@stfrancis.edu

Delainey Smith

News Editor delaineysmith@stfrancis.edu

Kamari Jordan

Entertainment Editor kamarijordan@stfrancis.edu

Iain Morrisey

Sports Editor iainmorrisey@stfrancis.edu

Christian Hoeger

Feature Editor & PR Specialist christianhoeger@stfrancis.edu

Noah Mussay

Commentary Editor and PR Specialist noahmussay@stfrancis.edu

James Thorpe

Entertainment Movie Reviews...........................12 WCSF Top 10/Schedule.............13 College: Through the Lenses......14 TV Calendar..............................16 USF’s Top 8 Shows.....................17 Local Entertainment..................18

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September 29, 2017

Sports Women’s Basketball.....................36 Pre Game Rituals........................38 Athletic Profile............................41 New Faces...................................42

PR Manger jamesthorpe@stfrancis.edu

Staff Writers Mallory Johnson Giovanni Alvarado Matt Morgan Sarah Hill Kayla Callahan Katie Wozniak Isaiah Williams Donovan Summers Elijah Anderson Ashley Hare

Letter from the Editor Hello, and welcome to the October issue of the Encounter!

With fall in the air, and changing leaves and Halloween right around the corner, what are some of the things you have to look forward to in this issue? A look into USF’s accreditation process, reviews of the latest blockbusters, a look into USF fall athletics, and more!

In the world of news, we have updates from the Student Government Association, information on the new 120-credit hour policy, as well global news, and information on President Trump’s threat of a potential government issue. This issue also features information on the USF communities response to the repeal of DACA, and how the potential for college campus protests and riots have affected the college atmosphere, near and far away.

Contents

Staff

In our last issue, we gave USF students a guide to basic survival here, with general tips for success for any college student. But what is college beyond those basic tips and tricks? Have you ever wondered what’s going on in the mind of an RA? What resources do faith driven students have here? What are the differences between college now and college five, ten, or even twenty years ago? This issue takes an inside look at St. Francis and college life in general as we explore these topics and more.

Want even more updates from Encounter? Make sure to follow us on facebook (USF Encounter), Instagram (usf_encounter), and Twitter (usf_encounter)!

For information on becoming a writer, contact me at clariceswanson@stfrancis.edu.

In the meantime, grab your pumpkin spice latte and enjoy this issue!

Sincerely,

Clarice Swanson Editor-in-Chief

From the top: Clarice Swanson(Edior-in-Chief) From right to left: Eva Lopez (Layout Artist), Mat Tuck (Assistant Editor), Ivan Flores (Social Media Director), Christian Hoeger (Feature Editor) Kamari Jordan (Entertainment Editor), Noah Mussay (Commentary Editor), Misael Tobias (Online Reporter), Delainey Smith (News Editor), Iain Morrison (Sports Editor), James Thorpe (PR Manager).

All rights reserved.

Policies The Encounter is published by the students of the University of St. Francis, 500 Wilcox Street, Joliet, Illinois, 60435. The newspaper office is located in room S413C of Tower Hall. The Encounter phone number is 815.740.3816.

As a member of USF Campus Media, the Encounter strives to produce a publication that stresses quality writing and design.

By reporting on issues that may be sensitive in nature, the Encounter aims to educate, inform and persuade students on topics that affect their lives on and off campus.

Editorial pages provide Encounter staff with opportunities to express thoughtful views on controversial topics.

Letters to the Editor represent the opinion of the author and are not necessarily opinions of the Encounter Staff.

Publications of letters to the editor are subject to space availability and management discretion. Letters are also subject to editing. Letters to the editor or any other submissions may be dropped off at the Encounter office or emailed to usfencounter@gmail.com. The Encounter is printed by RICOH Services on the campus of the University of St. Francis.

usfencounter.stfrancis.edu 3

Sat. Sept. 30 •

•

October Campus Calendar

National Public Lands Day Green Event (AfterMath, Rec Club, CEA) Paintball Experience (Rec Club) Music Dep’t Collage Concert

Sun. Oct 1-Fri. Oct. 6 •

Sts. Francis and Clare Week

Tue. Oct. 3 • •

Employee Appreciation Breakfast, 7:30-9:00 2018-19 FAFSA Renewal Workshop (Financial Aid)

Fri. Oct. 6 •

Overnight Camping Trip (Rec Club)

Wed. Oct. 4 •

USF Employee Recognition Ceremony, 1-5:00pm, Turk Theater

Thur. Oct 5 (also Oct. 12, 26 & Nov. 2) •

International Coffee & Conversation, 3:30-4:30pm, C164 (Int’l Programs Office)

Sat. Oct. 7-Sun. Oct. 8 •

Homecoming & Reunion Weekend

Mon. Oct. 9 • •

Major Discovery Day, 7:45-9:00am SGA Meeting, 8-9pm

Wed. Oct. 11 •

•

•

Are You in a Healthy Relationship, 12-1:00pm (University Counseling) 2018-19 FAFSA Renewal Workshop (Financial Aid) National Coming Out Day, 7:30-9pm)

Fri Oct. 13 •

USF’s Fourth Annual Day of Giving

Mon. Oct. 16- Fri Oct. 20 • •

Sexton Auditorium

•

Noche de Miedo (Scary Night), 8-10:00pm

Sat. Oct. 27,

Mon. Oct. 30 •

2018-19 FAFSA Renewal Workshop (Financial Aid)

Oct. 1-31 • • • •

Daily Mass, 12-12:30pm St. Joseph chapel, Mon., Tue., Fri. Tower Hall N305 chapel, Wed. St. Clare campus chapel, Thur.

Fall Break University Ministry Mission Trip to Nazareth Farm

Fri. Oct. 20

•

Feast of St. Francis (Observed)

Interactive calendar at www.stfrancis.edu/ usf-calendar

Mon. Oct. 23 •

SGA Meeting, 8-9pm

Thu. October 26 •

Faculty Recital: Jiafeng Yan, piano, at 7:30 p.m

Kodakk Home visits are available with proper notice!!

Cuts

All USF students

$5 discount with ID..

872-713-4982 Follow on Facebook & IG: @Kodakkcuts

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September 29, 2017

By Mat Tuck Assistant Editor

It is important to graduate from an accredited college or

university. Companies want to know that the people they hire have a quality education. Many businesses only hire individuals who have obtained a degree from an accredited institution. It is also more likely for credits to transfer to other reputable institutions if they were earned at an accredited university. This is especially important for students who want to peruse a graduate or doctoral level education at a different school. The University of St. Francis is accredited through the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. However, the university must be reaccredited every eight years. This March is our reaccreditation period.

A team of people from the Higher Learning Commission will come to St. Francis and observe different areas of the university. The visit will be over a two-day period. During that time, the team will interview student groups, faculty groups, the president, the cabinet and more.

This team will review all the documentation sent in by the university in advance and ultimately decide if the school is still accredited.

“Everyone’s input is important in this process,” says USF Director of Accreditation and Compliance, Janine Hicks. The Higher Learning Commission will send out a student survey before the accreditation visit. Students are encouraged to fill out the survey and say whatever they like about the school.

The survey is sent directly to the Higher Learning Commission.

The survey will be sent by email to the students January 9, 2018 and will run for ten days.

Students who wish to know more about USF’s accreditations can go onto the school’s website to learn more. On the USF homepage under the “about” tab there is a section called “Your Right to Know.” Here, there is a list of every program at the school that is accredited. This page will help students get a feel for what criteria the Higher Learning Commission will be looking for in there visit to the school.

University

USf accreditation

If the accreditation team finds any problems at the school during their visit, they may ask the school to fill out an interim report on a certain area the school is weak in. If they find any serious issues with the school they can put sanctions on the university. A sanction basically means that the school has not met some criteria for accreditation. In this case, steps would be taken to fix the problem so the school would not lose accreditation.

According to Hicks, “We’ve never had sanctions in our history.”

Mrs. Hicks has been at the University of St. Francis for about thirty years. “I’ve been through a lot of these reviews,” she says. “We’ve always done fairly well.”

The USF Encounter Staff will continue to follow the accreditation process throughout the 2017-2018 school year.

usfencounter.stfrancis.edu

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CAMPUS NEWS graduation requierment shift

By Eva Lopez PR Specialist The University of St Francis’ board has approved a lower number of credit hours needed for students to graduate.

Originally, all student’s needed to complete 128 credit hours in order to graduate, now students only need 120 credit hours to complete USF’s undergraduate program.

This brand new change in the graduation policy has been made effective as of the Fall 2017 semester for all current and incoming USF students. Proposed by a faculty member, this change had been up for consideration during the past year and has finally been voted and approved by the Education Standard Committee to begin this 2017-2018 school year. It is important to remember, this only lowers the minimum required hours and won’t alter any major or general education requirements --students may still need more hours depending on their specific degree and are still encouraged to take elective courses.

During the decision-making process, the university found that the 120 credit hour policy is consistent with over half the other undergraduate programs in the United States. This shift in graduation requirements is meant to improve USF’s graduation rate as it will be easier for students to graduate in 4 years. This is something some undergraduates have been struggling with under the 128 credit hour requirement.

Check with your academic advisor to make sure your undergraduate degree progress is on the right track.

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September 29, 2017

By Kayla Callahan Staff Writer

What does it mean to serve someone or to serve a cause? Does service require you to put in a certain amount of work to count as valuable? Absolutely not. Any act of service can range from giving time to a friend or a stranger who just needs someone to talk to, or offering your assistance to those who seem overwhelmed or stressed out. These are just a few small things that you could do to help those around you.

Anything can be an act of service. Nothing is too small because even what may seem like the most insignificant act, makes the greatest impact. If you see someone who could benefit from your assistance whether it be your talents, your time, or your treasure, always remember “If not you, then who? If not now, then when?”

As a challenge , seeing as it is the year of Service at USF, be more sensitive to the needs of others around you. Evaluate your own gifts and talents to see how you can put them to good use, and even try to improve your weak points by reaching out of your comfort zone for not only the betterment of others, but for yourself as well.

University

The Year Of Service

SGA 2017-18 School Year

By Mallory Johnson & Delainey Smith Executive Vice President of SGA & News Editor

SGA is underway! The Student Government Association at the University of St. Francis is excited to begin the new school year. This year there are many new faces on the Executive Board and Senate students should get to know.

Executive Board: President: Skyler Kern Executive Vice President: Mallory Johnson Vice President of Publicity: Irma Sandoval Vizcaino Vice President of Diversity: Juanita Muñoz Senate: Senior Class: Victoria Daugherty and Kayla Rice Junior Class: Maria Macias-Bedolla and Roberto Santillan

Vice President of Finance: Travis Williams Vice President of Student Endeavors: Abigail Blome Vice President of Sustainability: Megan Price Sophomore Class: Courtney Joyce and Stephanie Cruz Freshman Class: Elizabeth Badalamenti

A new billboard will be coming soon, across from the snack shop, for students to familiarize themselves with the SGA members.

SGA is the group that can help improve the school. Members urge students to talk with them because they can help make an idea into a reality on campus.

The first legislation passed by the SGA this school year adds a new Senators-at-large position to the Student Government. The new Senators-at-large, Kiki Estrada and Cory Schneider, will serve the university by helping the senate fill additional committee spots.

They will also be increasing SGA’s representation at school events. They will attend school events and bring information they gather back to the committee to help get the student body more informed about what’s going on at the school in the future.

SGA wants to remind clubs to send a representative to every meeting, as well as, encourage all students to attend the bi-weekly meetings to make their voices heard. Abigail Blome, Vice President of Student Endeavors, advocated that “Attending SGA meetings is a great way to get involved on campus and make an impact at the school. Even if you aren’t a senator or a club representative we still want to hear what you have to say so we can work to make the school a better place. SGA is so much more than clubs and budgets; it’s giving the student body a voice.” The next meeting will be Monday, October 9, 2017 at 8:00p.m. is San Damiano.

usfencounter.stfrancis.edu

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WORLD NEWS

By Eva Lopez PR Specialist

Report Estimates 40 Million Slaves World Wide A UN Agency and an International NGO’s new report estimates that there were more than 40 million victims of slavery worldwide during 2016, one in four of those, children. Women and girls account for 71% of slavery victims. The report, called The 2017 Global Estimates of Modern Slavery, finds that “25 million people were in forced labor, 15 million people were in forced marriage and 4.1 million people were victims of forced labor imposed by state authorities”. Only tens of thousands are being helped.

This report, which provides the most reliable slavery figures to date according to the two organizations, defines modern slavery as “situations of exploitation that a person can't refuse or leave because of threats, violence, coercion or deception -- which includes forced labor, debt bondage, forced marriage and human trafficking.”

According to the findings, modern slavery was most prevalent in Africa (7.6 victims per 1,000 people), followed by Asia and the Pacific (6.1 per 1,000), taking into account the lack of data from the Arab and American countries.

Over 200 Dead After Earthquake Hits Mexico More than 200 people have died after a 7.1 magnitude earthquake hit central Mexico on Tuesday afternoon.

According to NBC News, the earthquake was centered 75 miles southeast of Mexico City and cause “extensive damage, leveling at least 44 buildings, including homes, schools and office buildings.” Among the dead were least 25 school age children after a primary school collapsed. Rescuers continued to comb through the wreckage looking for survivors, pausing to listen for voices.

The disaster occurred on the 32nd anniversary of the biggest earthquake to strike Mexico’s capital. It also came 12 days after a magnitude 8.1 earthquake struck off Mexico's southern Pacific coast, killing dozens of people. Many areas were still without power as of September 19th, and communications remained limited. The death toll is expected to rise.

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September 29 2017

News

U.S To Destroy North Korea If Given No Choice President Donald Trump declared during the UN General Assembly that the US would totally destroy North Korea if forced to defend itself or its allies, according to BBC News. The US government has warned North Korea many times over its nuclear weapons and missiles tests, which “violate UN Security Council resolutions”. The crisis with the Asian country worsened last month when it announced its intention to test weapons around Guam, US Pacific territory. President Trump said: "Rocket man is on a

suicide mission.", referring to North Korea’s leader, Kim Jong-un.

During his debut speech at the UN, President Trump also addressed other issues, such as Venezuela’s crisis, and Iran’s “corrupt dictatorship” and deal over its nuclear program. He also criticized Teheran’s governmental support of terrorism, and denounced socialism as an ideology, while portraying the world in terms of "decent nations" confronted with "rogue regimes".

1.5 degrees celsius Paris Climate Target Still Possible A new scientific analysis shows that limiting global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius is still possible if strong action is taken, according to The Guardian. The so called “1.5C target” was set as an ambitious aim by the global Paris climate change deal in 2015 “to limit the damage wreaked by extreme weather and sea level rise”. An updated analysis says that carbon emissions need to drop to zero within 20 years instead of seven, as it was initially thought—a speed that was deemed impossible with current annual carbon emissions and “incompatible with democracy”, according to Prof Michael Grubb, a climate economist at University College London and one of the team that produced the new analysis While scientifically possible, the massive scale and speed of carbon cuts needed to meet the 1.5C target make it still a huge challenge that seeks to to avoid “severe, widespread, and irreversible impacts” on people and the natural world.

usfencounter.stfrancis.edu

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Trump Administration Update:

Government Shutdown Threat

By Giovanni Alvarado Staff Writer

B

Trump told senior White House officials that he would be certainly willing to go to whatever lengths are necessary to get money for the wall, including a total shutdown of the government.

Though the potential shutdown has yet to occur, this could shatter some friendly relationships within the president’s own party if he follows through with his plans. At the same time, the president’s administration has argued over a new budget, debt ceiling increase, and tax reform package for possible new healthcare legislation.

Both Republicans and Democrats are furious at the thought and have publicly come out to oppose such an idea. Could this be an opportunity to finally work together and allow bi-partisanship between the two parties? While the president hasn’t given a specific amount of money he would like, according to a Politico article a spokesman who spoke to the president said “enough to really start building it. He is animated about the wall. He cares about that more than many other things. He knows his base cares and chants about it.”

ack on Tuesday, August 22, 2017 at President Donald Trump’s campaign-style rally in Phoenix, Arizona, that he would vow to shut down the government to help fund the wall if Mexico doesn’t pay. Members of congress returned from their August recess on Tuesday, September 5 to get back down to business and have already warned of serious backlash to the president’s plan of a shutdown.

But first, what is a “government shutdown” and how can it affect you? A government shutdown is when the Executive Branch must intervene, due to the president and congress failing to pass any legislation through funding government operations and agencies.

Hence, funding the wall in this case. This can lead to the shutdown of national parks, national museums, and national zoos. That’s approximately 368 National Park Services sites closed, turning millions of people away and loosing huge business. Say goodbye to vacations until further notice, as the shutdown could last months or a full year. A shutdown could also affect the waiting period to get a passport or receive a gun permit, depending on the duration of the event due to cost issues and overall slowing down business in the United States. But how does this even happen, why is it allowed? This is because through the Antideficiency Act, it requires that the federal government commence a “shutdown” of the affected activities listed above. Patience is a virtue, after all.

While President Trump would love to have these plans passed through congress without any problem, are the odds in his favor?

Trump’s own administration is upset with him because he won’t deal with any other issues until he has money for the wall.

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September 29, 2017

At the Phoenix campaign-style rally, President Trump assured his base that he would do anything to secure the border. “If we have to close down our government, we’re building that wall.”

It is speculated that it would be almost impossible to get any support of democrats in congress in regard of funding for the wall. While some Republicans may have other alternatives to help aide payment by not shutting down the government, the party is split between support and opposing the idea. Republican House Speaker Paul Ryan of Wisconsin has promised to not support a shutdown and instead get money for the wall, as the House passed a bill in July that gave some wall funding.

However, the chances of the bill becoming a law are very slim.

The leader of the conservative Freedom Caucus, Representative Mark Meadows Republican of North Carolina, admired at the idea of a shutdown. Republicans will need Democratic support in order to raise the debt ceiling and pass a budget. Losing any Republican support, especially from moderate leaning, would be catastrophic for the Trump administration. Nonetheless in the end, this could be a test to finally work together and put forth a reasonable tolerant plan for both parties to be comfortable with.

Photos courtesy of diysolarpanelsv.com

News

Photos courtesy of ordning-reda.com abd Papago Archery Association

usfencounter.stfrancis.edu

11

Movie Reviews

By Iain Morison Sports Editor

MOVIES TO LOOK OUT FOR IN THE NEAR FUTURE Blade Runner 2049 (Oct. 6th) Geostorm (Oct. 20th) Thor: Ragnarok (Nov. 2nd)

Sponsored by

IT

8/10

The remake of Stephen King’s classic, IT, manages to capture all that is great about the old film but with a lot more flare and flavor. The special effects are much better, which isn’t a surprise because it was made decades after it predecessor. The child acting really shines in this film as witty banter and jokes about mothers provide the perfect amount of comic relief amongst the scares and the creepiness. Overall, this was a very well-made films that had few dull moments and gave the audience something to jump and laugh at.

Wind River

9/10

Fans of good films, please watch this movie. You will not be disappointed. From its deliberately mundane pacing to its superb acting and it chilling soundtrack, every part of this film is done well. Wind River brilliantly captures the vastness and loneliness of Wyoming and is the perfect murder mystery film that will keep you on the edge of your seat the entire time. It’s brilliant how this film leaves an impact on you. As I left the theatre I found myself really into my feelings. That’s something that a lot of films fail to accomplish but Wind River did so well.

If you need a comparison for this movie, look no further than the likes of Sicario or Hell or High Water, both of which also received 9/10. All three films are from the brilliant mind of Taylor Sheridan. Out of all the movies I have seen this year, this film is definitely a candidate for film of the year in 2017.

The Hitman's Bodyguard

7/10

At first glance, this movie has the formula for success. IT has two big name actors, Ryan Reynolds and Samuel.L.Jackson and is directed by Patrick Hughes who also directed The Expendables 3. For the most part, The Hitman’s Bodyguard delivers. The film is a fun action-packed ride that has its fair share of serious moments. A highlight in the film was the banter between the two stars as they both fill their classic stereotypical roles. This is fine film but it’s not very memorable and it didn’t really do anything to earn a higher score than 7. However, if you want to watch a good action comedy, then check out the The Hitman’s Bodyguard.

1701 N Larkin Ave Crest Hill, Il 60435 815-744-1803

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September 29, 2017

Mon-Sat: 10am-9pm Sun: 11am-6:30pm 1701 N Larkin Ave Crest Hill, Il 60435 Photos courtesy of various locations websites.

Albums SCHEDULE

1. WIDOWSPEAK Expect The Best

2.

OH SEES

Orc

3.

ALVVAYS

Entertainment

Top 10

Antisocialites

4. MIDNIGHT SISTER

Saturn Over Sunset

5.

COAST MODERN

Coast Modern

6. LCD SOUNDSYSTEM American Dream

7.

TOOTHLESS

8.

TURNOVER

The Pace Of The Passing

Good Nature

9.

TWIN PEAKS

Sweet '17 Singles Series, Vol. 1

10. LIARS

TFCF

usfencounter.stfrancis.edu

13

College: through the lens

In the beginning, there was "Animal House"

By Christian Hoeger Feature Editor

N

ational Lampoon’s Animal House was released in 1978 and basically set the standard and tone for college-based comedy from then on. They provided a look inside the complete debauchery that apparently constituted the blurry years of college. The question then became, are these films “accurate” representations of college life meant to scare parents away from letting their kids travel to these cesspools of hormones and hi-jinx? Or were these exaggerated examples of life meant to provide older generations with warm and fuzzy feelings of nostalgia even though their exploits never came close to these levels in reality? In the humble opinion of someone on the verge of graduation, it honestly falls somewhere in the middle.

Maybe on a bigger campus with an actual frat house the answer might be different, but there are definitely no expulsion levels of pranks and parties happening on an almost daily basis like in Animal House.

However, the stupid and immature sense of humor chronicled in the smaller scenes of that movie (I’m looking fully and directly at you “I’m a zit" scene) is still very much alive, especially with us guys. You can definitely imagine a “Saturdays Are for The Boys” t-shirt on many of the characters in that film and wouldn’t bat an eye. That’s because we definitely haven’t become all that sophisticated since the 70’s (Just go watch Old School for evidence). When staring down adulthood and bombarded with tests and homework, watching someone spit out mashed potatoes like they were a human zit or making an inappropriate joke here and there will always provide a few seconds of worry free laughter (we know you like the stupid comedy too girls, don’t lie).

14 September 29, 2017

Photos courtesy of various locations websites.

Entertainment

C

ollege humor isn’t the only thing that is captured well in movies however, the general sense of dread and confusion at what adult life is going to bring is a timeless source of relatability. These emotions and the navigating of them were expertly shown in films like The Graduate and St. Elmo’s Fire, both set immediately after the main character’s graduation, but still very much “college movies.” Sometimes it pushes people to do drastic things, like create Facebook in “The Social Network” or even go out into the wilderness in an ill-fated attempt to find oneself like “Into the Wild”. There’s not scientific timing for when this will hit you and I’m sure there are a couple lucky ones out there who will have it all figured out and not have to deal with it. These types of films allow the viewer to see these emotions from the outside and normalize them so they can better deal with them. Perhaps that’s why audiences and critics always receive these movies so well.

Some films manage to mix the comedy with those more serious emotions to find the sweet spot of college-set filmmaking.

Ones that come to mind are Everybody Wants Some!! and surprisingly Pitch Perfect. Everybody Wants Some!! is set in the 80s but the themes definitely still resonate today and expertly show how awkward male and female interactions can be, the different cliques of colleges, the uber-competiveness in literally everything of college athletics and holding onto the youth as long as possible. Now, Pitch Perfect is ridiculous and I wasn’t too sure about it after the first viewing. Strip away the acapella performances however and you get some pretty relatable themes and actions. The semi-lost student just going through the motions finding someone who shows them a different way of thinking is a common theme, but realistic. This new way of thinking leads to putting oneself out there and trying new things and inadvertently but most importantly finding deep and meaningful relationships and oneself. Writing that felt cheesy, but movies themselves often are, but so is life and the overdoing of the cheese factor is what easily connects the movie to the audience’s emotions. There’s a reason Nicholas Spark’s novels turned into a successful subgenre of film themselves.

College is a weird time, often aca-awkward (yep, it happened and I’m not taking it back) and challenging but definitely extremely fun and life-altering. You will never come out on the other side the same person. Every good college movie ever made has been a story about change at its core but with a comedy or a thriller or a crime film on top. This mirrors what this transitional phase into adulthood truly is; change, except hopefully not through the crime film type route.

usfencounter.stfrancis.edu

15

TV Calendar Primetime

By Kamari Jordan Entertainment Editor

Oct.1

Oct.12

• •

• Arrow (The CW) • Supernatural (The CW): Season 13 includes an animat-

• • •

Bob’s Burgers (FOX) Family Guy (FOX): In the 16th season, Mayor Adam West will make his final appearance on the show. The voice of Mayor Adam West died earlier this year in a battle with Leukemia.

NCIS: Los Angeles (CBS): Nia Long joins the cast as a former secret agent and the NCIS crew’s new executive assistant director.

Shark Tank (ABC) The Simpsons (FOX): This animated series 29th season will guest star celebrities such as Shaq and Ed Sheeran.

Oct.3

ed Scooby Doo episode!

Oct.13 • Jane the Virgin (The CW)

Oct.15 • White Famous (Showtime): This is a new series about a struggling comic who aspires to trade in his stand up and become a movie star.

• Black-ish (ABC) • Fresh Off the Boat (ABC)

Oct.16

Oct.5

Oct.22

• Scandal (ABC): Do not miss Scandal’s final season’s premiere.

Oct.9 • Supergirl (The CW)

Oct.10 • DC’s Legends of Tomorrow (The CW) • The Flash (The CW)

Oct.11 • Riverdale (The CW) • Mr. Robot (USA)

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September 29, 2017

• Martha & Snoop’s Potluck Dinner Party

• •

The Walking Dead (AMC): In the zombie apocypse

drama, season 8 follows the war that has been prophesized in the comics.

Oct.26

• Drop the Mic (truTV): This new game show is hosted

by Method Man and Hailey Baldwin. This season will feature stars such as Vanessa Hudgens and Randall Park.

Oct.27 • Blindspot (NBC) • Stranger Things (Netflix)

Oct.28 • Flint (Lifetime): Flint is a biopic of Flint, Michigan’s water crisis.

By Noah Mussay Commentary Editor

Here’s a list of the top 8 shows you should be binge-watching right now, according to other USF Students!

Shameless

Black Mirror

The Office

The series follows the lives of the dysfunctional Gallagher family, led by alcoholic single father, Frank Gallagher, as he tries to provide for his six kids. The gritty comedy-drama is fueled by its main protagonist, played by William H. Macy, as he engages in a string of moneymaking schemes and other misadventures. All the while, his children are learning how to fend for themselves and deal with the effects of their father’s alcoholism.

In the world of Black Mirror, the role that technology plays and the rules that govern it are completely rewritten.

Each episode of this British-anthology series will leave you on the edge of your seat as it shows a future where technology is king, to the benefit of some and the detriment of others.

Welcome to the Dunder Mifflin Paper Company! Here, the staff works away the tedium of their 9-5 jobs through, romance, hijinks, office politics and off-color humor. This, all while working under the not-so-watchful eye of their boss, Michael Scott and as a documentary crew follows them around.

How I Met Your Mother

Narcos This Netflix Original Series follows DEA Agents Steve Murphy and Javier Peña as they try to take down Colombian drug kingpin, Pablo Escobar. Through three seasons and two decades, Escobar evades capture through cunning and the thick pockets of Colombian politicians and law enforcement.

Through 9 seasons, Future Ted Mosby tells his kids the story of how he came to meet their mother. In the present, Ted Mosby begins his search for “The One,” after his best friends Marshall and Lily get engaged. With the help of his womanizing pal, Barney Stinson, he immediately falls head over heels for local news anchor, Robin Scherbatsky. Are wedding bells in their future? Watch and find out.

Ozark

Grey's Anatomy

Supernatural

Reminiscent of Breaking Bad, Martin “Marty” Byrde is a financial planner who uproots his family to the Missouri Ozarks after a money-laundering scheme gone wrong, leaves him indebted to a Mexican drug lord. Now his wife, Wendy, a real estate agent, must help him find businesses to disperse his earnings, in an attempt to throw the FBI off his tail.

Meredith Grey works alongside a team of surgeons at the fictional Seattle Grace Hospital. Through 13 seasons on Netflix, follow the personal and professional lives of the hospital’s staff, as they care for their patients and become seasoned doctors.

This fantasy horror series follows the lives of Sam and Dean Winchester as they try and track down their father, a hunter of demons, ghosts and monsters, after his strange disappearance.

Through 14 seasons, the brothers fight through hell and back as they follow in their father’s footsteps; defeating creatures from beyond.

Photos courtesy of various location websites.

Entertainment

USF's You Should Be Binge-Watching

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Local Entertainment

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September 29, 2017

Photos courtesy of Arbor Creek wepage and various locations websites

lassic rock is back, and it is better than ever. The Joliet homegrown band, Arbor Creek, is making big noise on the local scene and is worth some additional attention. Starting in 2015, Arbor Creek has already made an impact headlining the Hard Rock Café and the House of Blues.

Entertainment

C

By Matt Morgan Staff Writer

Arbor Creek is a five-piece band featuring lead guitarist Larry Huff, Keyboardist Jared Bebee, Drummer Frank Dvorak, Bassist Alex Ford, and Vocalist David Drilling. The five of them together make a sound that is sonically unforgettable. The sound pays homage to bands like My Morning Jacket, Led Zeppelin, and The Allman Brothers. In just a couple years Arbor Creek has already toured numerous states and headlined ISU’s Quadchella event in 2016 and have had their first E.P. featured on 101.1 WKQX and 93.1 XRT. The E.P. finished in 2016 was recorded by Chicago recording legend Steve Gillis at Transient Sound Studios featuring four uniquely crafted songs that make you question if the band members are really only twenty-one years old.

Their start was not all fun and games however. Arbor Creek has been through a plethora of drummers and losing them in an almost spinal tap fashion. Once Dvorak was found the band began performing at the local Joliet showcase known as the Donut, better known to Joliet natives as the Joliet bakery. After a few performances, the band found their niche and gathered a following and are known to many listeners in the local area. Arbor Creek has hopes of being the next national touring band out of Joliet and hope to represent their hometown in the best way they know possible-rocking till they drop. The journey does not end here though; the band is currently recording a full-length album at the University’s DARA recording studio. Under the guidance of Producer (myself ) Matt Morgan, the band is looking to grab more of the nation’s attention with a bigger and rawer sound. The band began working at USF in the summertime and hope to be finished by January of 2018. The full length will be finished just in time for the band to start their first east coast tour.

If you are interested in hearing Arbor Creeks music and hearing more from the band you can check them out on Facebook @arborcreektheband or find them online at www. arborcreektheband.com Stay tuned for huge announcements and great songs, and give them a like. We hope to see Arbor Creek go far. All local support helps.

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September 29, 2017

USF: An Inside Look

USF:

An Inside Look

The last issue of the Encounter was our annual “Guide” to St. Francis, full of handy tips and tricks to get the freshman and transfer students acquainted and to give returning students some pointers. So you’ve made your dorm room up all nice and livable and you’re fully prepared to be uber-productive, but now what? This issue, we wanted to go a bit deeper into the college experience and maybe shed some light on the

By Christian Hoeger things we all think about but don’t necessarily talk about.

Feature Editor

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R

esident Assistants, or RAs, are trained leaders that are assigned to supervise a residence hall or dorm. For most students that stay at the dorms during their college years, their RA is just another person who has his or her door open most the time. While in movies or pop culture they may be portrayed as the “bad guy,” RAs are the ultimate resources when it comes to anything involving dorm life. I interviewed two resident assistants, one former and one new. To receive honest answers from both, I informed both RA’s that their identities would remain anonymous.

Resident Assistants Are People Too

By Ivan Flores Social Media Manager

N

ot only are they people, they are also students on campus. They’ve been through the same problems you have and been through much stress while juggling their commitments and schoolwork, therefore, they can give you advice on how to deal with it.

RAs are a human college guide and are there to make your experience easier so it’s best to communicate with them as much as you can.

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NEW Resident Assistant

Were there some rules of being an RA that you felt were unfair or out-of-the-ordinary even though had to follow them?

Q: What do you think is the most difficult about this job?

A: I'd say one of the more challenging parts of this job is

Q:

Q: Was there an incident or scenario that happened

staying disciplined. There are a lot of extra things RAs do, like door decorations, putting on programs, duty, really getting to know your residents, staff meetings, and more. The best part about this is that I believe it's helping preparing us for the real world and things we might see in our future jobs!

A:

Q:

A: No, for the most part all the rules were the same as most colleges.

during your time as an RA? If so, how was it resolved?

One incident that stands out to me was someone or a group was stealing clothes from the laundry. I don't know if they ever found out who was doing the stealing but as RAs we inform the residents of the thefts and suggested that they stay with their laundry. We also made sure to let security and pro-staff know of the thefts.

Q: What is the best advice you can give to a new RA? A: My biggest advice is to ask questions and listen, and not just your own residences but to all residents who you interact with. This will give residents a better understanding of what kind of programs residences would like to see and what rules need to enforced better.

Q: What is the hardest part about being an RA, if any?

A: The hardest part about being an RA is writing incident reports and creating programs that are Catholic school friendly but also what the residents want, for example last year a club was trying to pass out condoms and bring the STD/ HIV testing van on campus but they couldn't because of the school's belief on birth control. It's a double-edged sword.

How would you handle the situation if one of your close friends broke some rules?

A:

If one of my close friends broke some rules I'd handle it like any other resident. For example, if there was a noise compliant I'd give them a warning the first time, then follow through if it continues. If it were more serious like a drinking violation, I'd follow protocol like for any other resident. I have great friends that understand this is my job and from the beginning I make sure to have that conversation about what this means to me and how serious I take this job.

Q:

What kind of relationship would you like to have with your residents in the dorm?

USF: An Inside Look

FORMER Resident Assistant

A: I think every RA would want to have a great relationship with their residents! We're all students here and our job is just to make sure each resident can get the most out of their experience here by keeping the halls safe, putting programs on that the residents will enjoy, and just being a friend for all residents.

Q:

What are some key facts the new residents of the dorms should be informed about once coming here to USF?

A:

1. Your RAs are your friends!! Ask them questions, get to know each other, we're here to help you to have the best experience possible!

2. Give your RAs ideas of what you'd like to see as door decorations or programs, we can't make any promises but we'd love to do things the residents want to see!

3. Get involved on campus! There are so many ways to get involved and if there's a club you and some friends would like to see on campus, you can make it happen! Just head to Student Services for more information.

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College

NOW vs. THEN

By Delainey Smith News Editor

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September 29, 2017

Photos courtesy of Rhodes College

The anxiety of not finding a job after graduation has notably evolved the experience a student has at a university. Long gone are the days of paying for college with money saved from a minimum wage job and being guaranteed a better one upon graduation. Older generations often fondly recall their college experiences by saying something like, “Those were the golden days.” To them, college was equal parts social and educational whereas many students today see it more as an educational purgatory.

In the early 1960s, only 4% of high school graduates went on to pursue a higher education at a university; Increasing to around 14% by the end of the 1970s. College graduates were rare in earlier generations making them more valuable for companies to hire. In the 1980s and 1990s, the technology industry started to boom and so did attendance at universities.

Since then, enrollment in college has continuously increased.

Nowadays, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that more than 70% of high school graduates are enrolled in college for the following semester. Jeremy Hylka, who graduated with three different undergraduate degrees from 1996-2001 at the College of DuPage, Northern Illinois University and the University of St. Francis, recalled, “I did not feel I would have much trouble landing a job. I was offered a job in my field before even graduating and took the position a few weeks after my graduation.”

Today, college is seen as requirement rather than an option.

Students are told as early as kindergarten that college is a “must” if they want to be successful in life. The only problem is, this “must” is risky and doesn’t guarantee employment.

In an interview with “The Washington Post” Phil Gardener, director of the Michigan State employment center, warned this generation of college students that making the transition from school to career is more treacherous now than it was for graduates even a decade ago.

Employers seem to be continually raising the bar for entry-level positions. At one point, attending college all but guaranteed you a well-paying job after graduation.

But fewer jobs are available due to the push for all teenagers to attend college. Work experience is becoming a necessity on a resume even for entry-level jobs. There are a vast number of qualified individuals with degrees, but there are still only so many high-level jobs available. University of St. Francis nursing student, Rachel McMurray, expressed frustration stating, “It’s a vicious cycle. I need a job to get experience, but I need experience to get a job. I took a course to become a Certified Nursing Assistant, the lowest-level position in my field, but hospitals still want me to have workplace experience.”

Even the most diligent students with impeccable grades can struggle finding a job immediately after graduation because they the lack the experience others have. Internships and participation in honors societies and clubs used to be resume boosters, now they are necessities to even be considered for hire. Just a college degree by itself is not enough to obtain a career. Students must be involved in school activities and working internships, all while continuing to do school work, in order to be a strong candidate. But sometimes it still may not be enough, University of St. Francis 2017 graduate, Kylie Mason, shared her concerns saying, “I had a strong resume immediately after graduation. Not only was I involved in two clubs on campus, I had three internships and worked throughout my entire five years in college. The downside to my resume was the fact that some employers didn’t find it that strong.”

USF: An Inside Look

S

ome aspects of college life seem to be timeless; Communal bathrooms, atrocious rental properties, all-nighters and cheap beer are all facets of the college experience, no matter the generation. However, as society changes and adapts, the lives of college students do as well.

Kylie is one of the lucky few to land a job the summer after graduating. From her experience, she advises students to appreciate their time at college more. “The one thing I regret the most during my last year of college was not soaking up everything USF had to offer, going out with friends and just enjoying being a kid.” There is a time for education but there is also a time for social experiences at a university.

While it may be difficult to find a job after college, it is still a one-of-a-kind experience that is still a benefit overall. The critical thinking and creativity a college education encourages, along with the diversity and experiences one has, allows individuals to develop into prominent members of society. Join clubs, accept internships and create inspiring projects but also go on a spring break trip, study abroad and close down the bar with your friends. That way, you’ll be able to look back fondly and recall that, “Those were the golden days.”

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Resources for the Religious Student

By Kayla Callahan Staff Writer

I

n the last issue of Encounter, an article on keeping faith in college was written. If that inspired you to keep your faith alive, or even make it grow while in college, this article is for you.

There are many resources here on campus to help you become more involved with your faith regardless of what religious background you come from. Yes, we are a Catholic University, so it may seem like our primary focus is on Catholicism. And while it’s true that the school doesn’t offer any other religious services besides mass, we have a Prayer and Reflection space where anyone from any religion can go to pray or meditate.

This room is located across from the chapel on the third floor of Motherhouse. Both the chapel and the prayer space are open twenty-four hours a day. Plus, everyone is welcome to celebrate mass with us.

There are clubs on campus that offer a community-based and student-led faith sharing group. Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) is a group composed of mainly athletes, although you do not have to be an athlete to attend their weekly meetings! Come to a meeting to find out every Wednesday at 9pm in the Executive Conference room (3rd floor motherhouse).

Campus Ministry is another perfect resource for becoming involved with your faith or even when you need help finding your faith. The peer ministers can be found in the dorms (4th, 3rd, and 2nd floor Marian, and 2nd and 3rd floor Tower), and in the classrooms. We have off-campus peer ministers who spend more time on campus than they do at home, so they’re easy to find and easy to talk to as well.

Ministry is also expanding and starting up a new club called Saints In Action (SIA), and is looking for members of any denomination who want to become more involved in ministry and have a say on what they would like to see or do in a ministry aspect. This club will be similar to others on campus, such as FCA, but the club won’t meet as often, so the meetings will be denser but fun. Our initial goal now is to build a strong community and grow from there. The programs put on by our Peer Ministers will be branched through this club.

Weekend retreats such as TAU (Transformation And Unity) are also a great way to take a step back from the chaos that the first few weeks of the semester brings and meet new people from campus. While getting to know others, you also get to know yourself more as you reflect on your past, where you are at now (spiritually, mentally, emotionally, etc.) and where you would like to be.

These are just a few examples of the resources we have on campus to help boost your faith and spirituality. The words here describing these many activities and resources truly do not do them justice. So come and find out for yourself.

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September 29, 2017

College Student

Stereotypes

Children begin learning to categorize things around them as young as 3-years-old.

Research in cognitive psychology shows that humans want to categorize the world, perhaps because it satisfies the need to understand and predict. So, it makes sense that we want to put people in categories too. This article is all about the typical college stereotypes and how to break them.

Stereotype #1: Freak, Geek, Rocks, and Jocks The freaks are considered the students whose interests lie outside of pop culture. Anything mainstream the “freaks” probably are not into. They march to the beat of their own drum and stay true to themselves, even if it means being labeled a freak. The geeks are your typical nerds. Good grades, big aspirations, and social life pretty much non-existent. It may be because they chose to get that extra study session in instead of going to that party that they were kind of invited to a couple hours ago. The “rocks” are the creative students on campus. They are the artists, creating music, poetry, or other beautiful works of art. The “jocks” are exactly what you think they are, party-animals who happen to play a sport at their University.

At some point in your life, you were put into one of these categories or maybe even multiple categories. As sophisticated college students, we should understand the complexity of each individual person and we can shatter these expectations by doing what we love and expressing ourselves in everything we do. Be an awesome student, play a sport, get active, be confident and creative, while also remaining true to yourself. You do not have to belong to one category and you do not have to only hangout with one kind of group of people. Explore different environments, different people, and have fun while you’re doing it.

USF: An Inside Look

Breaking

By Kamari Jordan Entertainment Editor

Stereotype #2: The Red Solo Cup The second stereotype about is “the red solo cup.”It is almost expected of you that you go out and drink alcohol as a college student.

The college movies romanticize the idea of partying and getting intoxicated. But the truth is, most of us college students drink because we feel as though we won’t have any fun or be as outgoing without a little liquid encouragement. How sad is it that we must be impaired to have a good time? Try doing something different with a group of friends. Explore a neighboring town, go downtown and find something fun to do, invite some friends over to your room and have a movie or game night. Let’s rid ourselves of the stereotype that college kids get wasted every weekend.

Stereotype #3: Good Student, Bad Student, and Nothing in Between The last stereotype is that there are two kinds of students in college; one that stays up all night, and crams to pass every test and one that doesn’t care about their grades. The truth is, you should have a good median. Cramming the day before is not going to help you. Learn a little more of the material every day and set a schedule to make sure you are reserving time to study. School should be a top priority, but your health is always number one. Stressing and forming bad habits to cope with stress will do you no good in the future. Make sure you are forming healthy habits. Crush this stereotype by acing those finals without the unnecessary stressful cramming sessions.

Photos courtesy of REDDS Cups

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By Christian Hoeger Feature Editor

Thriving in the Dorms I

bet you read this article title and expecting to see cute Pinterest pictures showing a bunch of dorm room “hacks” to try out in your room this upcoming year. Well, this isn’t that kind of article. You can go online and see a plethora of those hacks. Plus, I’m pretty sure we already wrote that article a few times. This is how you really survive living in the dorms. Get out of them.

Wait, that came out wrong. I don’t actually mean move off campus (sorry Res-Ed for the scare). Living on campus is actually really convenient. However, you can definitely go stir crazy living in the dorms. Especially if you’re a veteran like me. You will absolutely hate your time on campus if you don’t actively try and do things.

Hang out in a friend’s room, go for a walk, attend a club event or just go to a lounge to work on homework instead of at your desk.

These excursions will then make the return to your room seem refreshing and calming.

Hours

THAT leads to the second most important point of living and thriving in the dorms. Make friends on your floor or at least in your building. This will make it easier to get out of your room when need-be, but also foster a sense of community on the floor that will lead to more respect between neighbors.

You’ll have a much nicer time. You’ll probably start to notice laundry being taken care of for you if you ever forget about it, quiet hours being respected more consistently and just better interactions when you’re walking down your hall.

SO YES, dorm room hacks are nice and everything and I’m sure that your room is super cute and artsy, but it’s still going to feel pretty stale if you don’t get out of if every once and awhile.

Free Bowling Days

Mon - Thurs 8am -11pm Fri-Sat 8am-12am Sun 11am-10pm

www.joliettownandcountrylanes.com

2231 West Jefferson St Joliet, IL 60435

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September 29, 2017

September 29th October 28th December 1st

USF: An Inside Look

How to THRIVE as a COMMUTER

By Katie Wozniak Staff Writer

Every commuter on campus knows that parking is always a challenge in the morning. With a large amount of students at our university being commuters, there are many different tips and tricks to help you make it to class on time and always have everything you need. USF Sophomore Caeley Grady, a commuter who is involved in Recreational Club, Duns Scotus Honors Society, Student Government Association, and Justice League, has a 20-minute commute to St. Francis and offered some tips to those who spend a lot of time on campus. “Pack snacks. Always bring snacks.

Also, a phone and laptop charger if you're here all day long. Otherwise, you can’t run back to your room to get what you forgot.”

USF Sophomore Amy Wegrzyn offered advice for those with a longer commute, as her own can sometimes be 50 minutes long. Her biggest tip is “Definitely plan ahead and get here early. Especially this year, parking has been a real problem, so you don't want to forget something at home and lose your parking spot.”

The latest parking changes for commuters has been the removal of the Parking Lot F, which was located next to the sand volleyball court. It has been relocated to near Tower Hall on Wilcox Street. While it is not an overnight parking lot, all students are welcome to park in this lot with a parking pass until midnight.

“plan ahead and get here early!”

When one is always on the go, it is important to plan ahead and get here early. One thing to always keep in your car is an emergency kit that has jumper cables, a first aid kit, and a change of clothes. Now, if you don’t want to pack your car or carry everything in your backpack, there are commuter lockers in our very own Commuters’ Lounge, located in Tower Hall next to the bookstore. The lockers are free, all you need is a lock! This can take a load off of your back, literally, and keep everything organized on campus. These tips can better your college experience as a commuter.

he “use t s!” r e k c o l

“bring

snacks

an y e c v “ha ergen ” em kit!

“pa c lap k a ph top o cha ne an d rge r!”

!”

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DACA Repeal:

By Clarice Swanson Editor-in-Chief

The Effect on

A

t the beginning of September, President Trump made the decision to repeal the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals Program, or DACA. According to CNN, the end of this program puts potentially 800,000 young immigrants at risk for deportation. The repeal will prevent any new DACA applications from being processed, will prevent reapplication for anyone who ‘s status expires after March 5. There’s been much talk and debate over the influence this repeal will have nationally, but what kind of influence is the repeal having here at USF? The University of St. Francis has been very forward about its support of the DACA program. For 3 years the University has hosted the “Sharing the Dream” conference. According to Illinois Association for College Admission Counseling, this conference was “designed to help educators learn how they can support undocumented students on the path to a college degree and beyond”. Shortly after the news was released that the DACA program was being repealed, Dr. Arvid Johnson sent out an email to the USF community stating “actions in Washington have not and will not change our commitment to students of the University of St. Francis. Our doors remain open to you – for you are our brothers and sisters – and the educational opportunities you have pursued here are still available. You are valued members of our community and our university”. Another source, who wished to remain anonymous, stated of the situation “What we know right now is [Will] County has about 4,000 students eligible for DACA.

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September 29, 2017

USF

Considering Joliet has one of highest immigrant population in the county, there could be hundreds, if not thousands, of people being affected here.”

Other commentary came from the admissions office, where many of the counselors work closely with DACA recipients. Elizabet Miramontes, a USF Transfer Admission counselor and Founder of USF’s Latino Honor Society, stated “what I’m seeing right now is that some students are starting to get disheartened by something that was suppose to a second chance to them, but at this same time this has added fire to their belly because they got this far and they know they can get farther if they push hard enough”. So while the effect of the repeal has hit many students hard, there is still hope.

While DACA has officially been repealed, there is potential for reform for protection of undocumented immigrants. According to The Conversation Newsite, at least four pieces of legislation have been introduced in Congress, the most likely to gain traction being the 2017 Dream Act. The bill “amends the Illegal Immigration Reform and Immigrant Responsibility Act of 1996 to allow a state to extend higher-education benefits to state residents regardless of whether they are lawfully present in the United States” according to the Congressional Government Website”. Despite the challenge of the repeal, this as well as other legislature can provide some measure of hope for undocumented students.

By Elijah Anderson Staff Writer

P

eaceful protests bring to mind the idea of freedom of speech and an environment for protesting that is free from harm. However, some college campuses have had issues in recent months involving violent protests erupting on campuses, namely actions and language deemed racist. In today’s society, remaining safe during these protests, especially if they turn violent, is something that cannot be overlooked.

Commentary

Protests: Facts and Fears

At Evergreen State College, students wished to promote a campus-wide “Day of Absence” in which Caucasian students, faculty and staff were asked to stay off campus for a day. In an email between Evergreen State College Professor Bret Weinstein, and the Director of First Peoples’ Multicultural Advising Services, Rashida Love, featured in an article in USA Today, Professor Weinstein voiced his disapproval of the event, expressing the unfairness to all those of white origin. In one of those emails, Weinstein referred to the day as “an act of oppression in and of itself ”, due to the fact that the event was encouraging a group of people, “to go away”.

The protest began when, according to an excerpt of the press release in USA Today, almost 50 students of the college gathered and waited outside the classroom of Professor Weinstein. As Weinstein filmed his encounter with the racially diverse group of protestors, he defended himself saying that he did not feel in the wrong for opposing the “Day of Absence.” As he tried to speak with the protestors, some of his students began forming a circle around him and then began verbally assaulting the protestors who were chanting. The protesting became so volatile, that state troopers were called onto the campus to control the situation. That is something that should not be necessary. Yes, Professor Weinstein should have tried to hear the students concerns but the students should have done the same. Instead, they chose to corner him outside of his office.

At Auburn University, alt-right white nationalist Richard Spencer was beginning to speak in Foy Hall, the campuses’ lecture hall, when a fight broke out between a supporter of Spencer and an anti-fascist protestor, according to a CNN article. The fight ended with both men in cuffs and one bloodied and taken to jail. Prior to the event, the university tried to cancel Spencer’s appearance. According to The Washington Post, however, after a student brought a lawsuit against the school, a federal judge ordered the university to allow Spencer to speak, in accordance with his First Amendment rights. So, Spencer was able to speak. Was allowing Spencer the opportunity to speak even though the university and its students were against it worth it? Especially, when Spencer’s presence at the school was enough to incite violence before he even began speaking.

There is always the chance that someone won’t want to talk and that someone won’t want to listen to reason. I do not think we can call USF the safest university and place to be, but as Franciscans, we can work to ensure everyone feels secure and welcome here.

usfencounter.stfrancis.edu 31

By Noah Mussay Commentary Editor

Generation Yap

!

At some point, every generation has complained about the one before it or the one after it. The common stereotypes that seem to come up in these complaints range from calling the newer generation lazy and dependent or calling the older generation “too serious” and unsentimental. However, despite these stereotypes, we’re all just trying to do the best we can. Over the next few months, I’ll be talking with current college students and former college students. I’ll be asking them questions related to certain facets of the college experience, with the aim, of seeing how the college experience has changed and how it has remained the same.

This time, I talked with University of St. Francis (USF) Communications major and basketball player, Christian Hoeger, and University of St. Francis Associate Professor of Communications, Professor Richard Lorenc about College Move-InDay and Parent Sentimentality.

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Photos courtesy of various locations websites.

When the day came, that is exactly what happened but that didn’t mean there wasn’t a sad cloud hanging over the day.

“[…] Being away from home wasn’t really the appeal,” said Christian. “It was something that I just expected and accepted would happen.”

“My mom definitely didn’t want to leave right away but after the last meal together I think she was ready knew I wanted to start situating myself ”. Yet when the time came, he “gave the obligatory hugs and went right back to unpacking”.

On the other hand, Professor Lorenc said that his experience at move-in day went more like “[…] Mom, can you give me a ride down there? Here’s my dorm room. […] Can I have some money? And, that was kind of it.”

Despite this, it was still surprising to me that both men said that they expressed minimal apprehension leading up to their move-in.

Nevertheless, Professor Lorenc said that because he had a tightknit family, and because he lived 90 miles away from home; he went home at least every two weeks his first year away.

Christian stated “I knew I was ready to experience “actual” college life and live in the dorms away from home. My mom might have worried that I might starve eventually, and my dad was more worried about me getting myself into trouble or slacking off in school but both turned out to be unfounded, for the most part.”

“Later on in my academic career, I lived down there over the summer. I didn’t come home my junior and senior year. [My friends and I] had our own place and that was it; we had moved out”

“It really was. Most people wanted to go away, those that wanted to save money or not go away went to JJC,” said Professor Lorenc.

Professor Lorenc commented“[…] I hadn’t thought anything about it because that’s just the way things were”. […] Once the excitement wore off that I had my own room that I could decorate […] it didn’t really settle in until that first break.”

Then there was move-in day. Christian told me that his expectations for the day were minimal; he expected his parents would help him buy a few last-minute items, help him unpack a bit and then leave him to get situated.

The Verdict:

Commentary

I first wanted to know their reasoning for going away to school. What I learned was that for both, going away to college was the logical next step.

For Christian, school commitments made it difficult to make frequent treks home.

“My dad made the trip up a few times, but I didn’t go home too often because of basketball”.

Even, when they weren’t at school though their parents’ expectations were made clear and when Professor Lorenc’s eldest daughter went to college, he laid down the law.

“We took two cars. Mom drove the car with all the furnishings and everything else, and my daughter drove me with me so, I could have a long 3-hour talk with her about expectations, what to look out for, how to create balance between academics and social life. It’s kind of funny how times have changed” stated Professor Lorenc

College is a rite-of-passage, a time for social and academic growth. The day will come, when our parents realize they can no longer protect us and that we must forge our own path. For Richard Lorenc, his parents were more than willing to relinquish parental control to allow him to find his way. Although Christian would also, have the freedom to explore this new chapter; his parents still wanted to ensure he would stay out of trouble and be academically successful. In the end, their experiences were similar although one was a little more sentimental.

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For Marijuana Legalization Side by Side

By Donovan Summers Staff Writer

M

edical marijuana has been legalized in over twenty states, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures. Given the fact that it can save lives, it’s about time for all states to make the use of medicinal cannabis legal.

Charlotte Figi, a five-year-old from Colorado, suffered from Dravet’s Syndrome, a disease that gave her over three hundred seizures a week, according to CNN. However, her parents were able to find and administer a strain of cannabis that is very low in THC (the chemical in marijuana that intoxicates the user). Now, Charlotte is down to one seizure a week. The severe tremors of Parkinson's disease that affect individuals’ fine motor skills have also been shown to be calmed by the drug.

A study conducted by the Department of Neurology at the Rabin Medical Center at Beilinson Hospital examined twenty-two patients that were dealing with Parkinson’s disease. From 2011 to 2012, these patients were observed 30 minutes after smoking medicinal cannabis. The results found an improvement in their motor functions, improved sleeping patterns and reduced pain. No adverse side affects from the medicinal cannabis were present. Medical marijuana has also been shown to reduce the effects of some brain injuries.

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One of the most fascinating studies on this subject was conducted on mice at the Hebrew University in Israel. The study examined mice that had sustained brain injuries.

While examining the mice, the researchers found that they had “elevated levels of cannabinoid, similar to the active ingredient found in marijuana”, according to an excerpt from the study, in an October 2016 article on ABC News. com. Figuring that the cannabinoid helped to prevent brain damage, the researchers administered more of the compound to the injured mice, and were proven correct.

What does this say about cannabis? With more tests, medicinal marijuana could prove to be beneficial to those that have sustained brain injuries, especially, those in the NFL. In a letter to the NFL commissioner Roger Goodell, Lester Grinspoon, a Harvard Emeritus Professor of Psychiatry, urged him and the rest of the NFL to consider funding research of medicinal cannabis. He also asked them to discontinue drug testing, so that, players whom believe medical marijuana can be used as a neuroprotective agent, are free to do so, without penalty.

If doctors continue to approve of such uses who are we to stop them? Who are we to stop individuals from receiving the treatment they need? America has changed, once we were a pot fearing country but now it’s time to get off our moral high horse and recognize the medical benefits of marijuana.

Photos courtesy of various sources

First off, there is substantial institutional opposition, particularly in Illinois. According to the Chicago Tribune, groups such as the Association of Chiefs of Police currently oppose the legalization. Ed Wojcicki, the Director of the Association, called legalization an “enforcement nightmare.” Law enforcement has also paid attention to the warnings of Colorado Governor John Hickenlooper’s warnings about the “unintended consequences of recreational marijuana use, according to Chicago Magazine. Terry Lemming, a Lockport Police Chief, expressed his own concern to Chicago Magazine stating “I’m afraid we might rush into something as dangerous and as deadly as the cigarette issue.

Do we want another alcohol? It’s bad enough. Do we want another drug that’s going to cause people to crash [their cars?]” If these are the thoughts of law enforcement, what are some of the fears everyday citizens have?

there are studies that have traced long term use to be more harmful than beneficial. According to the Washington Post, a study in New Zealand associate chronic marijuana usage starting in adolescence with an eight point IQ drop by mid-adulthood. There is also the problem of common usage. There are more substantial issues with “legal” drugs, such as alcohol, than there are with many other drugs, especially with young adults. There are also many issues that have not been discussed, such as regulations on driving under the influence, or public usage of the drug, similar to the usage of alcohol or cigarettes. Lacking the proper solution to these potential problems shows the state is not yet ready to take a full step into marijuana legalization.

Commentary

I

llinois has been well on it’s way for the legalization of marijuana usage for quite some time. According to NPR Illinois, Heather Steans, Democratic Senator for Illinois, introduced a bill earlier this year to legalize the growth and possession of small amounts of the drug for citizens 21 years and older. If favor seems to sway towards the legalization of marijuana, what is holding Illinois, as well as many other states, back?

While much of the state seems to promote the legalization of marijuana, many people continuously seem to ask “why haven’t we legalized marijuana yet?” The answer is simply that there’s too many other factors that haven’t been considered yet. Once these potential problems are solved, the legalization battle can take a much bigger step forward towards being won.

While many look at marijuana as medically beneficial,

By Clarice Swanson Editor-in-Chief

Marijuana Legalization Side by Side

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Women’s

Basketball

By Ashley Hare Staff Writer

Update

The University of St. Francis Women’s Basketball team is heading into the 2017-2018 season with a major change.

The Fighting Saints are welcoming Steve Brooks as the new head coach. Steve Brooks will be taking over Samantha Quigley Smith’s coaching position. Quigley-Smith is continuing her coaching career at NCAA Division II Lewis University. During her time at St. Francis, Quigley-Smith led the Fighting Saints to back-to-back NAIA National Tournament appearances. She was named the CCAC Coach of the Year the past two seasons after leading the team to a combined 62-7 mark. Coach Quigley Smith has left the program at it’s highest level.

As Steve Brooks enters his new position at St. Francis, he is the fifth highest winning active coach in NAIA Division II. Brooks previously coached at Indiana Wesleyan University for eighteen years. During his time at Indiana Wesleyan, he won two NAIA Division II national championships and holds an overall record of 469 wins and 133 losses. He has also been awarded the National Coach of the Year 5 times in his career.

Coach Steve Brooks will have the pleasure of coaching three seniors, three juniors, four sophomores and two freshmen this season. The seniors include Kamari Jordan, Renee Martin and Dakota Brand. The juniors are Nichole Davidson, Trish Stritzel, Ivana Markovic and Aysia McCondichie. The sophomores are Kaitlin Alyward, Allison Hernandez, Madi Canady and Andriana Acosta. The two incoming freshmen are Paige Gieseke from Dundee-Crown High School and Leah Sims, from South Shore Prep.

As the 2017-2018 season approaches, the team will definitely have a new look. When the team made it to the NAIA Final Four last season, they were led by the help of seniors Charnelle Reed, Angelica Osusky, Mary Rouse and Jordan Giddings. They were also led by starting point guard Christina Ekhomu, who will no longer be playing with the Saints. She continues her playing career at Lewis University.

Coach Brooks stated “There’s 4 kids that started a year ago who are no longer here plus another one that played a bunch so it’s going to be an interesting process for this group since we are young but we will come together to put forth an effort that will give the kids the opportunity for success.”

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Photos courtesy of coachjeancaton.com/

Senior Renee Martin is very excited for her senior year. Martin says that since this is her “senior year, I am looking forward to a lot. But I am most excited to finish my career with Coach Brooks. So far, he has already challenged us and pushed us outside our comfort zone to become better athletes. He also cares about us individually and truly wants to see us succeed on and off the court.”

Sports

This season will definitely offer new opportunities for returning non-starters and bench players to get more time on the court.

A true champion comes with how well they play as the back-up role on their team. Last season, most of the girls went in as a quick substitute to give the starters a rest. However, the strength of a champion is determined by how you deal with the lack of playing time and the invisibility that inevitably comes from sitting when they would rather be playing. This particular group of girls is looking to do just that: become true champions.

The Fighting Saints are already back in action with Coach Steve Brooks. The team has started preseason conditioning. Preseason conditioning consists of a five day workout plan. The workout includes a wide variety of disciplined activities such as circuits, sprints, sand volleyball, lifting weights and much more. The players are also getting into the gym working on their individual basketball skills such as ball handling and shooting. Preseason conditioning will prove to Coach Brooks the teams work ethic and determination for the season.

Change is always a good thing. Good luck to Steve Brooks and the women’s basketball team during the 2017-2018 season. The Fighting Saints kick off the season November 3, at Concordia University in Nebraska.

Photo courtesy of gofightingsaints.com

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PRE GAME It’s race day. I could have done everything right prior to my race in Cross Country or Track. I could have gotten eight hours of sleep, a good breakfast, and warmed up perfectly. I could do all this, but if I got to that starting line, and I wasn’t wearing this specific pair of socks I only wear for race days, I wouldn’t feel right.

If you’re an athlete, odds are you know the feeling. Many athletes out there can be a little superstitious when it comes to game/ race day, (to quote the great Michael Scott of The Office, “I’m not superstitious but…I’m, I am a little superstitious”). It may be unusual to some, but for the athlete it’s something they’re so used to doing, to the point where if they don’t do it, it doesn’t feel right and can even make them uncomfortable. These little pregame rituals can be a whole day routine or something small and simple.

Or maybe it’s not so little. Sometimes pregame rituals can be bigger, and involve the whole team, a team ritual. Like the team chants done by the Saints’ Cross Country teams. On race day, the teams would huddle a couple feet away and do the chant that by the time of the first race, is memorized by every runner. It’s an exciting, motivating way to get pumped and really ready to go once the gun finally goes off. Without this, it wouldn’t feel the same getting on that starting line.

The same goes for any little personal ritual or routine an athlete does to get ready. Here are a couple of examples of pre game rituals some of St Francis’ very own athletes have. Just to show it’s those little things that end up being a big part of being an athlete.

“I don't really think about the race until we show up to the meet. I feel like overthinking early in the week wastes mental energy for race day. Only things I really keep the same is wear my black sports bra and put my hair in buns. I also tie my spikes like 10 times up to even a min before the race starts”.

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“I have to hold water in my mouth right until the gun goes off so that I know my mouth won't be dry...so I carry the water bottle with me to the line and I'll throw it last second”.

“I have to have a cup of coffee or tea before a race. I only eat granola and fruit on meet days. Also, I have to listen to the angriest music I can find to get me into that killer mood. Last, I put Tiger Balm on my legs and arms, and give myself a pep talk and a plan of attack”.

“I make sure I'm wearing one of my breast cancer bracelets in memory of my aunt as motivation to never give up. I'm also superstitious when it comes to my clothing: socks, sports bra, etc. they have to be only worn on race day”.

Sports

RITUALS

By Misael Tobias Staff Writer

“I say a little prayer to myself before I run”.

“I listen to Eminem’s ‘Till I Collapse’”.

“I wake up and I immediately put on my warm up jacket.

Then I always buy two packs of goldfish. And two mini boxes of fruit snacks. After that. I Just try to relax until the bus ride. Bus ride hits, I close my eyes and just don't think.

I then listen to my music until the warm-up. Mostly songs to just calm the nerves and some meaningful EDM songs.

I have one main song to listen to for every race. Then the warm up starts, and I still try to relax. Once we do our walking kickouts. I do the main shake out routine that I've been doing since middle school. I do two taps of each foot.

Swing my arms forward in a straight form 3 times. Then put my arms in running form and shake them forward 3 times. Do two head twists in each direction. Then jump and hit the ground hard. Then I have a oh s*** I'm at the line minute. Then I race”.

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Perinar

Sports

Brenna

Athletic Profile

By Isaiah Williams Brenna Perinar is a 5’9 outside hitter for the University of St. Francis Women’s Volleyball team. Brenna played volleyball for Minooka Community High School. She was named all-area and all-conference as a senior in 2013. Brenna also finished second on the team in aces, blocks, and kills, and third in digs that year. After graduating, Perinar chose to play for Lincoln Land Community College. In 2014, she was given the Coaches’ Award, in addition to being named to the South Prairie All-Conference squad. An all-around contribution, Perinar was the Logger athlete to play in every game last season, finishing 2nd on the team in aces, blocks, and kills, and 3rd in digs. Her versatile play led to her being selected for the All-Region team as well as the All-MWAC squad where she was also selected as Conference Freshman of the year. Perinar also earned All-Midwest Athletic Conference honors in backto-back years (2014-15) at Lincoln Land Community College.

Perinar then transferred out of Lincoln Land after her sophomore year and became a Fighting Saint. In 2016, she played in 44 matches for the Saints, and was named second-team all-CCAC selection. Brenna Ranked second on the team with 321 kills and 1.99 kills per set. She posted double-digits kills on 11 occasions, including a career-high 12 in the Saints’ four-set win at Olivet Nazarene on October 25. Perinar also finished third on the squad with 73 total blocks.

It’s not surprising to see Brenna excel with in her volleyball career since she grew up surrounded by volleyball. Mr. and Mrs. Perinar raised five children who all play the same sport on a collegiate level. So, it’s safe to say that she has an outstanding amount of volleyball in her blood. As this season is underway, she is excited to be back on the court and determined to give it her all.

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NEW FACES

of the Fighting Saints Family

2017 St. Francis Men’s Soccer:

Brian CastilloFreshman

Carlos Ferrer CotoFreshman

Christian BitangaloFreshman

2017 St. Francis Women’s Soccer:

Alejandra AlonsoJunior

Ellie ProvoFreshman

Kelli PietrowsiFreshman

Martina KotrbaFreshman

Olivia De La RosaFreshman

Sarah HeimbergFreshman

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September 29, 2017

Jose MartinezFreshman

Josh HolberyFreshman

Sports

Joshua YeamanFreshman

Kelvin NdlovuJunior

Lucas St. PaulJunior

Morgan CattleMckenzieFreshman

Raul RomanFreshman

2017 St. Francis Volleyball:

Brooklyn WhiteyFreshman

Darian BaldwinJunior

Katie SzakacsFreshman

Maggie KlebenowFreshman

Makenna BarteckiFreshman

Sydney JarradJunior

Photo courtesy of various locations websites.

Taylor ValantFreshman

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2017 St. Francis Women’s Cross Country:

Annie HugueletFreshman

Laisha CoronaFreshman

Sabrina Baftiri -Freshman

Veronica Navarrete -Freshman

2017 St. Francis Men’s Cross Country:

Andre Baez Martinez -Freshman

Andrew Martinez -Junior

Angel Mejia -Junior

Chris Pagan -Freshman

Jonathan BehlingFreshman

Matt Wilson -Sophmore

Thomas BrownJunior

Zachary HooverFreshman

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September 29, 2017

Eric Judd -Freshman

2017 St. Francis Football:

Sports

Jalen Moore -Freshman-Management Jamal Stovall -Freshman-Business Management Perre Brian Barbarin -Freshman-Biology Major

Gabe Ramos -Freshman-Marketing Major Rio Strama -Freshman-Finance Major Tariq Thurman -Freshman-Finance Major

Zach Fritz - Freshman-Pre-Nursing Major August Ramos -Freshman Computer Science Major

Noah Johnson -Freshman-Pre-Med Major

BriceHaselhorst -Freshman-Criminal and Social Justice Major

Lachlan Poor -Freshman-Psychology Major

Rheece Hilliard -Freshman-Communication and Media Arts Major

David Charnot -Freshman-Finance

Dalton Jenner -Freshman-Pre-Med Major

Chris Johnson -Freshman-Finance Major

Jared Hill -Freshman-Accounting Major

Thaddeus Ampadu -Freshman-Accounting Major

Aaron Ellis -Junior-Social Science Major

David Tischina -Freshman-Pre-Nursing

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Halfway Party for Juniors, you’ve made it to or past the halfway point in your college career!

You should also use this opportunity to take a FREE professional head shot!

Join us for a party in your honor!

There will be a professional photographer on site from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.! Head shots open to ALL students, faculty, staff, & alumni!

Free Food

Music

+ Prizes & Giveaways usfencounter.stfrancis.edu

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