Arkansas 3 20 14 proof2

March 20, 2014 | Volume 3, Issue 23 | Fayetteville, AR

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IGNORE CONDOLEEZZA AT YOUR OWN RISK PAGE 3

MOROCCAN ADVENTURES page 4 WHAT’S GOING ON WITH UKRAINE? page 7 THE FIVE WORST PEOPLE IN YOUR CLASS page 10

ALMOST THERE...

Photo by Ryan McCready

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Editor's note

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ARE WE REALLY READY TO DITCH PLEDGESHIP? Under the new regulations, men will still receive bids but will become members as soon as they accept those bids. They also will be required to complete an alcohol awareness class.

RYAN MCCREADY Pi Kappa Alpha Editor-in-Chief

Ryan is a senior studying international business.

You may contact him at rmccread@uark.edu.

Aside from the alcohol awareness class, this seems like an unnecessary change. I do not condone hazing, but there has to be some sort of probationary period before you let new members into your organization. How do you find out if they are worthy to wear your letters and represent your organization on campus? How are you able to know they will make grades and not flunk out a month after they accept a bid? Also how do you know, from one week of rush, if this is someone you can trust with the secrets of your fraternity?

Pledging is a great way to answer all of these questions. Pledges are able to prove that they are worthy and want to make their fraternity better by attending philanthropy events and helping the community. Members also are able to meet the pledges throughout the

pledging period, in which they determine if these men are a good fit for the fraternity. It only takes one bad person to take down an entire organization. It’s unclear whether this new method will do anything to vet out poor candidates.

In most of the fraternities with which I’m familiar, pledges are required to attend study hours, which not only teach them how to study in college but also hold them accountable for their grades. Only people with a certain G.P.A. can be initiated, and this gives pledges something to shoot for in their early semesters.

Without pledgeship, how will pledge educators fuction? These are the people who instill the values of the fraternity in the pledges. They are also responsible for every pledge and make sure they continue to make grades. Pledge educators not only teach traditions but they also help the pledges grow from high school boys to college men. Without them, some people will never make the transition.

Lastly this is going to be very hard to enforce and is technically just way for the national organization to absolve itself from liability if something were to happen during pledge ship. Although this has already taken place at Sigma Phi Epsilon, I believe the shear numbers of SAE chapters will make it much more hard to transition to. Because of their size and history, it also could cause other fraternities to follow suit.

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CREATIVE TEAM Editor-in-chief Ryan McCready Pi Kappa Alpha

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3 IGNORE CONDOLEEZZA AT YOUR OWN RISK Scene on campus

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With all that she has accomplished in life, ignoring the advice that Condoleezza Rice gave when she spoke at Barnhill Arena a few weeks ago would be foolish, regardless of political affiliation.

Committee’s poll the past two years in a row, beating out John Legend, Michael J. Fox and Tony Dungy, said the committee’s chairman Tyler Priest. “I think people came to this event because Dr. Rice is truly distinguished and who would not want to listen and learn from her experiences and wisdom. I know that I gained so much from listening to her,” Priest said.

From serving as the first woman, nonwhite provost at Stanford University, to being appointed to the National Security Council by Bush senior and serving as George W. Bush’s secretary of state, Rice knows firsthand the value of hard work and passion. The stories she told of her endeavors were inspiring to many and her thoughts on current events both insightful and liberating.

The University paid Rice $170,000 to attend, according to the Office of Student Affairs.

Around 2,000 students were present. “As a 23 year old running for office, I really appreciated her encouragement to pursue one’s passion, even if you have to break a stereotype to get there,” said Hodges, who is running for State Representative this year.

Rice entered college as a music major, with dreams of becoming a concert pianist and playing in Carnegie Hall. However, certain events led her to study political science, instead, and later in life it all made sense.

Rice discussed the events that have shaped the way we approach security today, but a large portion of her lecture was based on the crisis in K-12 education.

She is concerned that education inequality could lead to the “death of great democracy,” and could harm our nation’s “great national narrative.”

While Rice was serving as secretary of state, Yo-Yo-Ma, a famous cellist, called her and suggested they play together sometime. Rice said that at that moment everything came full circle and she reminded the crowd that by following your passion, working hard and having faith in yourself everything truly does work out in the greater scheme of things.

Photo courtesy of facebook.com/condoleezzarice

HALEY ETHRIDGE

Alpha Omicron Pi

Haley is a senior studying journalism, advertising, PR. You may contact him at hethridg@uark.edu.

Jessica Darby, a junior economics major, said she “loved her honesty. She did not shy away from the topics that the ‘politically correct’ tend to avoid. That being said, she still spoke so eloquently and enthusiastically.”

Rice said that being at places like the University of Arkansas made her feel optimistic.

She advised students to do many things while in college, such as find their passion, try something that is difficult for them and experience a different culture. Rice said she got where she is today by working hard and by keeping a rigorous schedule. “Try hard things,” she said. “You will not fail if you work hard and find people to help you.”

Rice did not speak in-depth about the conflict between Russia and Ukraine until the question and answer session, when students asked pre-approved questions. The questions ranged from laid-back inquiries about Rice’s cameo on 30 Rock to more comprehensive questions on policy. When asked how she would handle the conflict in Ukraine if she were Secretary of State today, Rice said that Russia should be punished for their violation of sovereignty in Crimea and that the United States must work to support the Ukrainian government.

“We must show Vladimir Putin that we will not be intimidated, and he cannot bully those who wish to be free,” said Rice, sending the crowd into a roaring applause. Former College Republicans Chairman, Grant Hodges, said his “favorite story was Vladimir Putin standing up and trying to intimidate her in the White House, only to have her tower over him in her heels. Talk about guts.”

Rice was selected as this year’s speaker after topping the Distinguished Lecture

4 MOROCCAN ADVENTURES Adventure stories from abroad

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1. The Food

If you are used to paying $5 for a cup of SYDNEY So, you’ve had coffee, $15+ for a meal CASON amazing Italian blank out, $6 for ice cream, food, German food, or $40 for a shirt at Mexican food -- I blank your favorite store, get it. Your palate your wallet will LOVE Morocco. I spent months searching for a study has tasted bounties abroad program less than $20,000. I heard way too often that “studying of different cultural foods. But how often have you walked down the street and caught a abroad can be cheaper than what you’re paying at your home university!” glimpse of a Moroccan restaurant? Maybe once? There’s a reason there Well, this is a flat-out lie unless you get scholarships… notice I said multiple? aren’t many out there and it’s because they’re hoarding all the deliciousness Studying abroad is expensive – and will keep getting more expensive as the years go on. for themselves. Greedy, much?

Eating in Morocco is not just to fill your stomach, it’s about sharing and being thankful that you’ve been blessed with another day of food. Oh, and When I found International Studies Abroad, I nearly had a panic attack.

They offer BOMB prices – and include a lot of things that other programs it’s tradition to eat couscous every friday – so it’s a win-win. don’t. To give you an idea, ISA Morocco’s program cost is $9,950 – yes. I am 2. Your Wallet Will Love You not kidding you! And guess what it includes? Housing, FOOD (prepared

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Adventure stories from abroad

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six days a week by a personal cook), a cleaning service, laundry service, decision of my stay here so far. and eight day/weekend trips to different cities within Morocco (hotel & I walked into her house and food provided). was promptly greeted with huge The only thing left for me to do was save money for a flight and gifts… if hugs and kisses as if I had known that isn’t budget friendly in 2013, I don’t know what is. them my entire life. They treated my three friends and I with 3. Monkeys Are Everywhere incomparable love and fed us an I have an obsession with Moroccan monkeys in particular – they are indescribable meal. It will forever unbelievably friendly! And you find them around every single corner, it’s remain as my favorite memory of so unusual but fantastic!

Morocco.

4. Coffee Meet a Moroccan family and I This one’s for all you fellow crazies who can’t manage to put one foot in promise you that your life will front of the other without a cup (or five) of coffee each morning. never be the same.

You can’t walk more than 10 steps without being at a new cafe in Morocco. 6. Flights to Europe Are Dirt Cheap They are pushed up right along side each other, dotted along the sidewalks My flight to Italy was a whopping of every main, side and back road. They’re everywhere, and boy do they $78 round trip and my flight to have incredible coffee. There are pro’s and con’s to cafe culture in Morocco, France was only $90. Morocco is the coffee being the main pro here, but it’s worth it. in a prime location for traveling to To give you a quick glimpse, cafe’s are over run by men who enjoy staring at Europe, and what a great way to the pedestrians on the street more than talking to the person accompanying experience all the unique cultures them. Tables line the outside seating of each cafe with each chair facing of Europe - but without living specifically towards the street. In Morocco, you sit and watch the world there and breaking bank. A quick weekend trip is at anyone’s disposal go by and enjoy your free time with coffee in hand. when you’re a skip and a hop across the Mediterranean Sea. I’ve been quite a few places in the last 4 months, and not even Italian 7. You Feel Like You’re Discovering it Yourself Espresso can beat out Moroccan “Kaahua.”

Morocco has this weird way of making you feel like a true adventurer. In 5. Hospitality general, Africa doesn’t have a huge tourism industry that draws people Moroccan hospitality is unlike any hospitality I have ever received in my in year-round like the famous cities of Paris and Rome. But that’s what’s great about it! There’s a hidden gem around every single corner, a shop life…. ever. that you know other tourists haven’t found, and street stalls that have I met a girl in a taxi a couple of weeks ago and within three minutes of GREAT food that kids in your study abroad group haven’t even heard introducing myself, she invited me over to her house to meet her whole of. Your independence escalates to an all time high - especially when you family and join them for Couscous Friday. I read online before coming here finally say that phrase in Arabic you’ve learned and someone successfully that this sort of thing was normal, so I went with it – and it was the best responds back!

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RECESS Thought recess was long gone and still under appreciated by those who still get to enjoy it?

LEIGHA VAN SICKLE Kappa Delta Kayla

is

a

sophomore

studying advertising and New Heights Church PR. You may contact her at kmeiffer@uark.edu. has changed all of that with rEcess, a program created by Matt and Ginny Mooney after losing their son Eliot- hence the capital “E” in rEcess.

They have been growing constantly since their start in 2007 and the amount of good they do is indescribable. They allow families of special needs children to drop off their kids – special needs children and their siblings – and, once a month, the parents get a worry free Friday night to themselves. The number of families they invite to participate is based on the number of volunteers.

They have been growing constantly since their start in 2007 and the amount of good they do is indescribable. They allow families of special needs children to drop off

their kids – special needs children and their siblings – and, once a month, the parents get a worry free Friday night to themselves. The number of families they invite to participate is based on the number of volunteers.

I have volunteered at rEcess three times and I can easily say that it is just as much fun for the volunteers as it is for the kids. The kids are great and love to hang out with each other and the people who run rEcess could not be any better. They bring love and joy to the night, along with safety. The nights are typically themed such as dinosaurs, music and fairytales and the kids really enjoy dressing up and doing crafts that fit the night’s theme.

The kids run the show because it is all about them and their one night to have oneon-one time. Some of them may not get that needed one-on-one time on a daily basis to make them feel special at home, especially if they have a lot of siblings. At rEcess, however, they get to play around with a big kid. Seeing them smile and hearing them laugh makes the entire night worthwhile.

I strongly encourage this volunteer opportunity for people who enjoy hanging out with kids and making a difference. It is a fun night and dinner is provided. For more information about the program or to sign up, go to www.recesshub.com.

POLITICS: ARKANSAS EDITION

On Friday, Feb. 28, Senator Mark Pryor filed his paperwork at the Capitol in Little Rock to seek his blank third term in the Senate.

First elected in 2002 and blank re-elected in 2008 without challenge, Pryor is the only Democrat in Arkansas’ congressional delegation and he won’t go down without a fight. Pryor, his opponent Rep. Tom Cotton and outside groups have already spent millions on a campaign for an election that is still over seven months away.

BRADEY CHAMBERS

Born in Fayetteville, Pryor is the son of former Arkansas Governor and U.S. Senator David Pryor. Pryor describes himself with three words: faith, responsibility, security. He uses his Christian faith as a cornerstone for how he shapes his life and how he approaches his role as a U.S. Senator. Opposed to cutting Social Security, veterans’ benefits or converting Medicare, Pryor holds himself accountable for seniors, veterans and children. He believes that we must responsibly cut government spending and opposes radical or irresponsible spending cuts.

He believes that we all contribute to the well being of our nation and should take personal responsibility for achieving success instead of relying on government as a “cure-all for every problem we face.”

Pryor sees national security as a top priority. He believes in a strong military and capacity to fight terrorism nationally and abroad. Mark Pryor strives to do his best work on behalf of the people of Arkansas by ignoring partisan politics.

According to his website, instead of “politics as usual,” Pryor works for responsible, bipartisan

solutions that secure the future of our nation for generations to come while keeping our commitments to our seniors and veterans. With Mark Pryor, “Arkansas Comes First.” For more information about Mark Pryor and his policies visit http://pryorforsenate.com A graduate of Harvard and Harvard Law School, hailing from Dardanelle, Tom Cotton currently represents the Fourth Congressional District of Arkansas sitting on the Financial Services and Foreign Affairs Committees. As an officer in the U.S. Army, Tom took an oath of office to defend the Constitution and uses that oath to fight unconstitutional laws like ObamaCare and will never vote for a law that is, by his judgment, unconstitutional.

Cotton believes the foremost responsibility of the federal government is to provide for the common defense and believes that the Iraq and Afghanistan wars were just and necessary.

He states that a strong national defense depends on a fully and well-funded military with the best equipment and troops that money can buy. He backs pro-growth policies that support the private sector and a fair tax code. He also opposes President Obama’s failed policies because of their attacks on the private sector.

Cotton works to preserve and protect benefits for veterans as well as working to enhance and endorse the public school system to give parents the power to make the right choices for their children’s education(s). Cotton’s website urges Arkansas voters to “elect a United States senator who when he says Arkansas comes first, actually means it,” For more information about Tom Cotton and his policies visit http://cotton.house.gov or http://www.tomcotton.com Although Pryor and Cotton are both born and raised Hog Fans, their race is nowhere close to over. With the upcoming election in November, one can expect to see their ads lighting up our TV screens during every prime-time program.

This Senate race is going to heat up fast. As of now, Cotton is up 2.3 percent in the polls, but it’s only March. And, as we all know, anything can happen in politics.

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WHAT’S GOING ON WITH UKRAINE?

Ukraine’s political conflict has been all over the news lately, having recently reorganized their government after weeks of massive demonstrations and replaced it with something vaguely democratic.

CATALINA CORTES blank blank

Not surprisingly, right after the establishment of Ukraine’s new proWestern government, Russia invaded the ethnically Russian Crimean peninsula and sent the world into a frenzy. The United States has threatened to impose harsh economic sanctions on Russia saying that Russian President Vladimir Putin is in clear violation of international law.

But as Russia and the U.S. butt heads, Russia is reinforcing their military presence in Crimea and Crimea’s population has aligned itself with Moscow and is poised to secede from Ukraine.

The U.S. has called foul and tensions continue to rise.

It can be argued that Russia did not violate international law when they invaded the Crimean peninsula—or at least not any worse than we may have in the past two decades, or so. Crimea is populated by a majority of ethnic Russians and this particular ethnic group fears that it might not be represented fairly in an independent Ukrainian government. Putin actually has

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some legitimate interest in Crimea; he is refusing to leave his Russian brethren stranded in an unstable political environment.

Crimea was not even a part of Ukraine until 1954, when it was added on to the Ukrainian Soviet Socialist Republic. Crimea’s parliament recently voted to secede from Ukraine and reunite with Russia. A referendum is scheduled for next weekend for the public to vote on the matter. The U.S. has responded to the referendum harshly, calling it illegal. “Any discussion about the future of Ukraine, must involve the legitimate government of Ukraine,” President Obama stated in a press conference.

The standoff continues and bears striking resemblance to the standoff between the U.S. and Russia over Kosovo’s independence from Serbia in the 1990s, only this time the positions are completely reversed. When Kosovo sought independence from Serbia, the U.S. backed them, while Russia saw Kosovo’s secession as an infringement on Serbia’s rights.

The situation in Ukraine and Crimea is complicated by our media’s tendency to paint pictures in harsh shades of black and white. Any move that Russia or Putin makes is considered “evil” and moves made by Ukraine’s unstable, yet “democratic” new government are considered “good.”

We need to step back and examine the situation and remember that as a third party we lack information and insight about Ukraine’s ethnic and territorial conflicts. As a nation, we cannot simply rely on alignments of similar political economy and government to determine who the “good guys” are. If we hastily impose sanctions or let the situation escalate to war, we could potentially endanger millions. Life isn’t that simple and neither are the political dynamics in Ukraine.

8 SORORITY GIRL’S GUIDE TO FORMAL SEASON Special occasions: Spring Break

Formal is the only thing on my mind, lately.

Sorority formals are a big deal, right? This is the biggest event on our social calendars and a chance for every girl to show off her formal ready bod, stellar dress and boy toy.

MEGAN PEARSON-HARGUS Kappa Delta

Megan is a sophomore studying English & journalism.

You may contact her at map014@uark.edu.

When preparing for formal season, some details get a little hazy so, hopefully, I will be able to ease your way into the formal season.

How to get the bod. If, like me, you didn’t prepare your body at the gym for spring break, this is your time to really buckle down. The gym is where I’m going to practically live for the next couple of weeks. I would love to say that I’m only going to eat salad, but salad makes me want to cry.

How to ask the boy. Depending on your relationship and closeness to the boy, there are a few different ways to ask. Through intense research, I have discovered that most boys do not like being asked in creative ways. Girls get a lot more out of the creative and romantic gestures

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than boys do. In fact, most boys would actually prefer a text message or a casual ask in person.

If you really like a boy and want to ask in a cute way, go for it! If you ask a boy to formal and don’t Instagram it, did it actually happen? I would rely on a text message for formal asking.

What to wear. This is the most confusing part of formal night. I have heard mixed reviews. Do not wear short dresses, do not wear long dresses, do not wear dark colors, do not wear florals, do not, do not, do not. I say, do your thing, girl. I have a friend who will only wear floor length dresses. Other girls swear by tight-hugging, short dresses that show off that formal ready bod.

I think I might go in a bejeweled potato sack or something similar. That pretty much sums up how I feel about dressing up.

Coolers. Obviously, boys do not paint coolers for girls when they go to formal with them.

That is truly a shame. I would love to watch boys attempt to paint Lilly prints on a cooler.

That would actually be the best thing. Boys, can you please paint us coolers? We deserve it.

We spend hours on our hair, nails and make up just to good look for you. The least you can do is spend weeks slaving over a cooler.

How to dance. As a YouTube trained “professional” dancer, I am here with my expertise to recommend some great dance moves that are sure to woo your date and your best friends. The Carlton is my personal favorite. Boys literally line up when they see you do this dance. Move on to the Cabbage Patch if you’re feeling kind of adventurous. Then, end the night in style by doing the Sprinkler. It’s a historical crowd pleaser.

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Special occasions: Spring Break

DIFFERENCE BETWEEN GUYS’ AND GIRLS’ VIEW OF FORMAL The way she sees formal

RACHEL RAWLINGS

Spring break has come and gone, midterms are Pi Beta Phi beginning to die down Rachel is a sophomore studying advertising and public relations. and the fact that you You may contact her at have to ace your final mrrawlin@uark.edu. in order to pass biology has finally set in. Life seems to be at an all time low. That is, until you turn the page of that sratastic Lilly Pulitzer planner and see that formal is next week.

Your week is turned around. That test you have been studying so hard for is pushed to the back of your mind and you’re already half way to Hobby Lobby.

You snapchat a picture of the shopping cart full of paint and a cooler to your date (he’s probably more excited about it than you) and scramble to find out if your date’s best friend is still dating that girl you always hang out with at functions.

When you arrive back at your apartment you realize that everything is chaos and nothing is going to get done within the next week if you don’t organize ASAP. So you whip your planner back out (thank god for Lilly) and make a to do list.

1. Paint cooler.

2. Find the perfect dress.

3. Ask Daddy for some extra spending cash.

4. Start a detox (so you can fit in your new dress).

5. Ride the elliptical.

6. Study for Bio – maybe. If I have time.

Sounds easy enough.

It may be a lot of work, but you know your date is going to appreciate every ounce of effort and every sleepless night you put into it. He’s going to have the best-looking date and cooler at the formal. What more could a guy want?

After a week of paint-stained arms, sleepless nights and what seems like starvation, you set off with a suitcase and cooler and are ready to go meet your date and show him the master piece – or, shall I say, masterpieces, he’s taking to formal. What a lucky guy.

The way he sees formal You just got back from spring break and you’re soaking in the fact that school’s almost over. Five more weeks? That ain’t nothing. You have row week coming up and you have a nice tan going after being in Panama for a week. Things don’t look too bad from where you’re sitting.

At chapter on Monday, the event coordinator announces that formal is next week. You and some of the guys talk about who you’re bringing, but the subject quickly changes to the NCAA tournament. Maybe next year the basketball team will start winning.

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Tuesday comes and goes and you get a snapchat from the girl you sat next to in English, first semester. But all it is a picture of her grocery cart. You decide she probably meant to send it to someone else.

Crap! You remember that she is your formal date and that formal is less than three days away. You still need to pay for the hotel and find a ride.

Friday sneaks up on you faster than you thought it would and you text one of your buddies who’s driving. He says he only has one spot left in his truck, but you’re sure that you and you’re date can both squeeze in. She won’t mind.

When she comes to meet you, she’s holding an amazing cooler. You’re actually quite impressed and, more than that, you can’t wait to see what’s inside.

Turns out it’s an empty cooler. But that’s okay, you’re on you’re way out of town with a dime for a weekend get away.

And there’s only ten more days until row week.

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Special occasions: Spring Break

‘TIS THE FORMAL SEASON

Spring semester is as radically different from fall semester as night is from day. All students seem to feel the same thirst for summer.

KATIE HICKS

Pi Beta Phi Application deadlines for summer internships, trips Katie is a freshman studying abroad and positions for English. You may contact her at the following fall hang over kohick@uark.edu. the heads of many. Baum Stadium is what we look to for our release of Hog spirit instead of the Donald W. Reynolds. Next year’s schedules are made, leaving all students asking, “Has a year of college really flown by that quickly?”

Some differences are only noticed by those called Greeks. Boys are initiated and as a result, many more trucks embellished with Greek letters can be seen roaming the campus. Fall’s pledges are traded in for a few of spring’s finest. Girls on Maple Street can be found chanting, clapping and planning in preparation for next year’s rush.

Spring semester brings about all of these changes and although it may seem remarkable, the only novelty about the season that seems to really have anyone’s attention are the two little words “formal season.”

Formal season is an exciting, yet terrifying, time for all. As a girl, I am partial to the female side of formal season’s many stressors. If the boys understood a woman’s side, we would all have a more successful, fun-filled and awkward-free time.

If you are a guy you will find, below, the worries running through most girls’ heads on this campus right about now. If you are not a boy, then take heart while reading this and know that somewhere out there, other girls are also losing sleep and breaking out, thanks to this year’s formal season.

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Will I get asked? Every girl on campus can be found in her favorite spot on a weekend night.

This favorite spot is one that you frequent on a weekly basis, is filled with boys who know your name (this is a big deal, I’ve come to realize) and where you can dance and karaoke shamelessly with your favorite pledge sisters. However, formal season is a time when this favorite spot is put to the test. You will fall into one of two categories: you have made excellent friends and they are all dying to take you to their upcoming formal or you have made some friends, but you don’t stand out when they ask themselves, “Who do I want to spend the weekend with?”

Planning. If you got asked, congratulations. If not, you can take comfort in the fact that there is always next year. Now it’s to focus on the dilemma of what to wear. Looking like the classy lady that you are, but also looking sassy enough to out-do all the rest is a hard combination to find in a dress. Too plain? You need to find a fun necklace or shoes with a big personality. Too tight? Losing weight for formal dresses is a new worry of its own. Don’t fret. The key is having the confidence to rock whichever dress you choose.

The unknown. You should be most worried about the worries you don’t know to worry about.

Make sense? Let me walk you through it. Formal weekend means that you are going to another town for the weekend. This means we want to avoid the awkward car rides or the awkward fact that you will be sharing a room. As girls, it’s times like these where our “go to the bathroom as a group” mentality comes in handy. Mass texts are sent out in order to find another formal-going sister so you can plan a weekend-long double date. Boys – when picking a formal date, know that you are also picking one of her sorority sisters, so plan accordingly.

The cooler. Of all these many concerns, the largest should be your date’s long awaited cooler.

Cooler making is a new form of art. In dorms, apartments and sorority houses everywhere, girls can be found in the wee hours of the night sanding, tracing and painting these functional beauties.

Most will be marked with signs of the sorority that we hold dear to our hearts, followed by a heart and whatever fraternity your date claims. There are brand-like emblems, fraternity flags or catchy, rhythmic phrases and girls flock together to share paint. We worry and lose sleep over these coolers. Boys, compliments are welcomed.

So, as stressful as formal season is for all, it is something we should take on together. Let’s all focus on the fun that surrounds these weekend-long excursions. Find a date who’s you like and call it a day, because formal season is here to stay.

Humor lol

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THE FIVE WORST PEOPLE IN YOUR CLASS

Many of us have a difficult time paying attention in class. There is always some distraction that seems like paradise compared to the fifty minute to hour hell we waste away in.

LAUREN RANDALL Alpha Delta Pi

Lauren is a freshman studying English / journalism.

You may contact her at lerandal@uark.edu.

Our Instagram is refreshed every five minutes, a window is calling our name and the kid behind us is eating Cheez-Its like he was raised by wolves. Going to class is hard enough as it is, but certain people make it ten times worse. They range from snackers to the know it alls and by the end of class, you’ve sketched “help” into the desk and have your advisor on speed dial.

Here are the five worst students to be in class with.

The Snacker. The snacker is my least favorite student of all time. Everyone misses a meal once in a while and sometimes we have to regain our strength with a treat from the vending machine. These students,, on the other hand, chew and smack like a disposal. Careful – don’t get too close or your hand will be shredded. They have no sense of others. The louder they chew, the more I want to scream, not to mention the crinkle, crinkle of that potato chip bag.

Honestly, can you not eat a granola bar like the rest of us? The only way to save yourself from a snacker is to give them a good long stare.

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The know-it-all who knows nothing. Some classes are difficult and we don’t feel embarrassed asking questions because we know everyone is in the same boat. Yet, there are some people who just know everything. I mean, they know what your professor had for breakfast and how fast the grass grows. Here’s the catch, they actually don’t know or understand anything. It’s good to have confidence, but overconfidence is killer. Go ahead and sit in the back of the class with your head down because you will be overpowered by scoffs and “right” answers. The only advice I can offer is don’t, by any means, argue with the know-it-all. There is a silent victory in getting back a grade with decent marks compared to the know-it-all with a fail.

The suck-up. This person is so deep in their role that they actually believe they are the teacher.

They love to be the teachers boo; nothing will stop them, not even the eye rolls of their peers.

You can spot one by their very particular call, “shhh,” usually heard around the time the teacher is talking. This student is a rare breed because of their ultimate goal to become the teacher’s friend. They like to share “inside” jokes and personal anecdotes while the rest of us bang our head on the table until it’s all over. A suck-up can be handled with positive reinforcement and is usually a good partner for group work.

The sleeper. Why does this person even come to class? We have all had those days where we doze off; I use to fall asleep in the front row of art lecture every class, but at least I had the intention of learning. You can’t absorb information while taking a little siesta. This person is really the life of the classroom. The sleeper is always the one who gets called on, which means a pick me up for the rest of us. The sleeper isn’t really all that terrible, just a bad influence. It’s like when you see someone yawn you automatically yawn and the next thing you know everyone is asleep. The only way to deal with a sleeper is to go ahead and join them.

Everyone has their quirks and perks, especially in the classroom. All I’m saying is check yourself before you wreck yourself.

THE DOG DAYS OF COLLEGE

Animal lovers, unite.

Admit it. If you’re anything like me, you have recently spent over an hour on Petfinder looking up the cutest cats and dogs in the Fayetteville area.

sleep time in order to make sure your pet is happy!

ALEXANDRA SERRANO Kappa Delta

Alexandra is a sophomore studying communication.

You may contact her at aserran@uark.edu.

Animal lovers, unite.

Admit it. If you’re anything like me, you have recently spent over an hour on Petfinder looking up the cutest cats and dogs in the Fayetteville area. You may have casually strolled into the animal shelter only to walk out with a new friend and a whole lot of responsibility. Who can blame us? Pets are basically living stuffed animals who want to cuddle and love you 24/7. Not to mention, they make a great addition to your Instagram photos and an even greater addition to your family.

Despite all the fuzzy feelings that come with owning a pet, people need to realize they are a huge responsibility. Owning a pet is no small task and a lot of students forget that. I know three people who’ve had to give away their beloved furry friend because of money, time management or, worse, an angry parent. Here are some questions you need to ask yourself before buying a pet.

If I can’t even get up for my 9:30 a.m. class every other day, can I get up even earlier to walk my dog? I mean, really, people. The answer is obvious. Who doesn’t love having a cat paw at their face at the crack of dawn each morning or hear it meowing for hours on end until you give it attention and want to rip your ears off. Make sure you’re willing to sacrifice some extra

Will I have the time to train and take care of it? There’s nothing like coming home to a puppy who completely destroyed everything in sight (paired with a really, really angry landlord). It takes about two to three months to fully train a puppy, so make sure you’re committed before you take on this challenge. If you’re willing to take it on, make sure you schedule your class and work hours accordingly so you can be there for your new friend.

Can I afford it? Do you eat Ramen for dinner on the daily? Do you shamefully make a trip to the nearest Coinstar every so often? Do you stretch $15 in ways you never thought possible?

If you’ve answered yes to any of these questions, don’t get a pet. Vet costs alone can be $100 dollars on top of food, grooming and other supplies. The expenses can add up fast.

Do I have enough space for a pet? Puppies and kittens, as we are well aware by now, have a lot of energy. Make sure they have enough room in your apartment or home to be comfortable.

Research the local dog parks nearby and try to find some trails to walk your dog. They need exercise just as much as you do.

What about life after college? Having a pet isn’t a temporary thing. Dogs and cats will, most likely, be a constant in your life for the next 15 years, so make sure that you will have a lifestyle that accommodates your pet. After all, they deserve it just as much as you do!

Despite all the difficulties and challenges that come with being a pet owner, there really are some great experiences that also come with come having a pet. There’s no better feeling than coming home after failing a test and having someone who loves you unconditionally when you cry. You have a built in friend no matter what. They’ll never date your ex-boyfriend and never stab you in the back.

So the next time you walk into a shelter, make sure you know what you’re getting yourself into before you make the decision of a lifetime!

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Self health & fitness

www.theodysseyonline.com

SECOND SEMESTER STRUGGLE What is the key or the ultimate secret that can easily get each one of us through spring semester without wanting to finish that last season of Breaking Bad or Gossip Girl on Netflix?

from first semester, Chaco’s and a swimsuit back from your freshman year of high school.

ABBY WALSTAD blank

blank If you’re one of the rare, yet lucky, students who craves getting up early in the morning, can make your long trek to class, starve and end the day with a huge headache and droopy eyes – never mind to you, just go ahead and stop now.

The rest of us need to find out how to avoid the slip of our 4.0’s and find out where the cheapest coffee spots are on campus.

One of the main problems we face is the phone call home when in need of money, which is always awkward and never exciting to talk about. After a long day, staring at the one digit number lingering in your bank account saying, “this could buy me a Chipotle burrito,” is a harsh reality and makes it a difficult world to live in. “YOLO” to the burrito cannot cut it. Face it, you’re broke.

As if I am going to get a job right now when my spring semester Greek activities are through the roof and school is already hard enough. Oh, and spring break doesn’t help anything except make you feel like an unfortunate and useless kid when all you have to pack is your XXL tank

The solution is to make a plan for how much you can spend a week, like $10 because, face it, that’s all you’ve got. Make your grocery list and stick to it. Ramen, soup, on-sale buy one, get one free party size Doritos, celery (spring break bod girls) and, if you’re lucky, you can get those Oreos you’ve been craving for the past week.

Another problem we now face is the distribution of progress reports. Yes, I am sure this push you’ve had to make that 4.0 that you see in front of you has made you proud and excited, and that’s great!

Here’s a tip: stay on top of that high horse you climbed on and, literally, freeze because once you start to slip when that horse is running, there’s no hope. Professors are getting boring, exhausting and pushy thinking we are capable of doing their ungodly homework assignments, projects (especially the group ones) and taking tests every three weeks.

At this time of the year, all the fratty boys are just trying to get to ROW Week and the not so fratty boys are just trying to conquer the new game of Grand Theft Auto 5.

The sorority girls are trying to get to spring break, ROW and to the Union for late night meal trades to sit down and claim they “just can’t anymore.” The not so sorority girls are desperate to get away from the real sorority girls and the high pitched yells they hear driving past the houses, as they make fun of the freshman at recruitment practices.

We students need to stick to the three main food groups: coffee, chocolate and Goldfish. As for the rest of the year and the final push, just think of every assignment from now until then as the grade that will get you closer to that 4.0 and get you the better job that could pay you the big bucks. Other than that, if you don’t keep your future in mind and the risks of the “springitis” that is coming in fast, there is no luck.

DON’T BREAK THE BANK in for gas.

Spring break is

coming

up

and

whether you’re going to the beach, taking a road trip or visiting friends, the last thing you want to have

KAYLA EIFFERT Kappa Delta

Kayla is a sophomore studying advertising and PR. You may contact her at kmeiffer@uark.edu.

to worry about is coming home completely broke.

Traveling can be very expensive, especially for us college students. Here are five simple tips that can help you stay financially conscious while you vacation. Your bank account will thank you later!

1. Carpool. If you are road tripping, gas can be very expensive. The more people you can pile in your car means the less money coming from your pocket, so coordinate with friends who are heading to the same place and ask them to chip

2. Share rooms. Staying in a hotel in Destin or PCB? Fill up all the rooms with as many people as the hotel will allow. Splitting the bill between as many people as possible can make room arrangements much more affordable.

3. Set a budget. Before you leave, sit down and decide exactly how much you are willing to spend while you are on vacation. Divide up the total amount per day and see what you can allow yourself to spend. You could even set limits on your food, drink and shopping budgets to see how much money will be going to what.

4. Cut out unnecessary spending. Eating out every day and night adds up quickly, so try to plan ahead and cook at home a few nights. Be sure to pack everything you need so you don’t have to buy something you may have forgotten, like sunscreen or a swimming suit.

5. Track your spending. There are a ton of great spending tracker apps that let you easily log all of your purchases so you can see where your money is going and how much you have spent. This will also keep you accountable for your budget.

Feature story

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CONFESSIONS OF A BARTENDER, PART 3

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There’s more to being a bartender or waiter than pouring a shot or dropping off drinks in front of a customer.

Can you typically tell who will be a good or bad tipper?:

It takes some savvy and charisma, along with a deep knowledge of which drinks will please and who to serve them Pi Beta Phi to. Tending bar is one of Katie is a senior studying creative those jobs in which your writing. You may contact her at success depends on your kkortebe@uark.edu. personality more than anything. Anyone can go to school to become a bartender and knowing what’s “top shelf” isn’t enough. Becoming a successful bartender takes time. Here are some confessions from a local bartender here in Fayetteville.

(On bad) “Or if you freaking give them a dollar back and they put it in their pocket…”

KATIE KORTEBEIN

Name: Tim Naumann Where do you work?: LiT Lounge How long have you worked there?: “I think it’s been two years.”

When do you usually work?: “Thursday, Friday, Saturday. Not every day, it’s random, but usually Friday and Saturday night, right now.

What is your busiest night?: “Probably Saturday night, right now. Just because it’s busiest, I don’t know. Because everybody doesn’t have to do [anything] on Sunday!”

(On good) “I mean, appearances a lot, if they know how to order a drink.” (Laughs) Funniest thing to happen while bartending?: “It might be like one time when Ronnie Brewer said he was turn’t up. He was yelling, “I’m turn’t up! I’m turn’t up!” Like that was his excuse for something. And he was just yelling, “I’m turn’t up!” It was hilarious.”

Creepiest thing to happen while bartending?: “Super creepy chicks? Yeah, all the time.

Like moms? Well, not just moms, but you know, that chick you never want to see ever, just comes in. Like, you cannot stay here after hours. That’s kinda creepy, I think. Or psycho.”

What do you like about bartending?: “Meeting people and serving them.” (Laughs) “Like having fun. Like providing the party for people, you know?”

What do you dislike about bartending?: “Probably making tequila shots. Or just cleaning up after them. Cleaning up the mess. Or dealing with somebody who’s just overly rambunctious, somebody’s who’s real salty, like a tequila shot.” (Laughs) “Like real pissed off or jaded for some reason, drowning their sorrows.”

Favorite drink to make?: “Dragonbomb. Because it’s like a special. And everyone likes it, and I like it.”

When asked what was in it, “I don’t think I can reveal that.” (Laughs) When asked if he ever sprays anyone with the water gun: “Yeah, I haven’t been able to do that in a while because it’s cold out. I do throw ice sometimes. Like at people smoking cigarettes inside.”

14 10 REASONS WHY EVERYONE SHOULD BE A CAMP COUNSELOR Ideas debate & discuss

We all need something to do to occupy our summers, preferably something fun because we all know working as a hostess or waiter at a local restaurant the entire summer does not sound ideal.

ALEX PEREZ Alpha Omicron Pi

Alex is a sophomore studying journalism, PR and advertising.

You may contact her at axp045@email.uark.edu.

I’ve been lucky enough to work at a quaint summer camp in Texas the past two summers. (Camp Huawni if anyone was wondering, a.k.a. the greatest place on earth) And if you aren’t from the good ole “Lone Star State” there’s a variety of camps right here in Arkansas! I can honestly say that being a camp counselor has taught me more life lessons and life experiences than any waitressing job would.

Getting to teach and learn from kids every summer while having fun is the most rewarding job that I believe every college kid should get to experience. Here are my 10 reasons on why I think everyone should be a camp counselor: #1. You get to spend 6-8 weeks (depending on the camp) acting like a total freak and NO ONE can say anything about it because it’s socially acceptable! #2. You’ll be laughing 90% of the time you’re working. No one ever gets to say that working a job behind a desk. Kids literally do say the darndest things and you’ll remember the weird things they tell you for years to come. #3. You’ll learn to not care what you look like. People base a lot of their opinions because of the way another person looks or dresses. Well, at camp you learn to love the natural look. Trust me, you’ll be missing it by the time classes roll around again in the fall.

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Ideas debate & discuss

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#4. Being a camp counselor teaches you to be a well-rounded, compassionate, and responsible individual. Yes, you get to hangout and encourage kids everyday but there are other responsibilities that go along with that. It’s an unforgettable experience. #5. You get to be outdoors all day everyday! What about that doesn’t rock? Hiking, biking, running, canoeing, fishing, you get to do all of that in one place. And with being outside in the sun only means one thing, YOU GET THE BEST TAN OF YOUR LIFE! #6. Getting dirty becomes the greatest thing ever. You’ll start to believe that washing your hair everyday (or every other day) isn’t important. It’s fun to be dirty! Especially when 200 of the coolest people around are getting dirty with you! #7. You’ll find out things about yourself that you never knew! My first summer working as a counselor I found out that I’m really great at cleaning (for those who know me, you probably just LOL’d) But really, whether it’s finding out you’re a great cleaner, dancer, or a great four-square player you’re bound to find a hidden talent. (hopefully one that’s more impressive than mine). #8. You’ll become a leader, whether you like it or not. At the end of the day, as a camp counselor, all those kiddos look to you for EVERYTHING (trust me when I say everything).

They want to be you when they leave camp! If that doesn’t make you feel awesome, I don’t know what will!

#9. You’re getting paid to PLAY! This is probably one of the only jobs where it is actually encouraged to paint your entire body, yell at the top of your lungs, and dress like you just left the thrift store. The kids love it! (counselors may love it more than the campers sometimes) #10. I saved the best for last of course… You get to bond with 40-50 of the best people you’ll ever meet. YOUR FELLOW STAFF MEMBERS. By the end of the summer you’ll know everything there is to know about every single person on staff. One of the best parts about it all is that you all went through the summer together and you all grew together.

You’ll be friends with these people for the rest of you life!