UT 101 - Summer 2017

THE INDEPENDENT

COLLEGIAN

Serving the University of Toledo community since 1919

A student-to-student guide to life at the University of Toledo RACHEL NEARHOOF / IC

UT 101

2 | The Independent Collegian | Summer 2017

Summer 2017 | The Independent Collegian | 3

Welcome to the University of Toledo!

A letter from the Student Government President: Welcome Rockets!

I would like to welcome every single one of you to some of the best years of your life. I would also like to congratulate all of you on making a great choice by choosing to attend the University of Toledo.

Those of you who know me know that I initially chose to attend another institution before transferring to UT. You are already a step ahead of me by just coming here first. As someone who has attended more than one college, I can safely say that UT offers more to all its students than any other place I have attended.

So, I would like to congratulate you for choosing the pinnacle of college for yourself.

I personally guarantee that by the end of this school year you will bleed UT blue and gold if you follow these easy steps to success.

1. Attend sporting events like football games and basketball games. Don’t forget to check out some of our women’s sports too. Last year, the women’s basketball team was the MAC Tournament Champion.

Our men’s football team is in a bowl game almost every year as well. UT has multiple successful sports teams. Make sure you check them all out for a good time!

2. Get involved with at least one of our 300+ or-

JIMMY RUSSELL SG President

ganizations on campus.

Getting involved with an org is a great way to make friends and meet people with similar interests. Grades are super important, but if those are all you focus on, you will become burned out. Make sure you take

can be the difference between passing a class and failing one.

4. Meet with your success coaches, advisors and professors. They are an invaluable resource that people often do not utilize. They can help you get a scholarship, pass a class or even create a plan so that you can graduate early!

If you ever have any concerns or problems or would like to join us, know that you can always reach out to your Student Government.

We have an office in SU 3512 and meet every Tuesday at 8:15 in SU 2592. I am usually in the office for most of the day, so make sure to come and see me!

“Get involved with at least one of our 300+ organizations on campus.

Getting involved with an org is a great way to make friends and meet people with similar interests.” some time off from studying to go and hang out with some friends.

Just remember there are no degrees in student involvement. Make sure you’re not too involved to the point your grades suffer.

3. If you are ever struggling academically, make sure to take advantage of our tutoring center. It is a real lifesaver that not enough people know about. It

We also have a website, www.utoledosg.org, you can check out for more information and another route to contact us. If you have any other concerns that those avenues may not be able to satisfy you can also email me at james.russell3@rockets. utoledo.edu.

COURTESY OF RACHEL NEARHOOF

Some members of the IC staff pose for a picture during a trip to Cedar Point in May 2017. The IC staff consists of students of all majors and years at UT.

A letter from the IC Staff: New Students,

Congratulations and let us welcome you to the University of Toledo. Whether you’re just like most people and recently graduated from high school, or if you took a few years off to get ready, or are coming back to finish a degree, you will be spending the next few years here at UT, which have the potential to be the most exciting, fulfilling and mind-blowing years of your life.

Starting off at any new school can be a challenge. While you try to navigate your way around campus, you’ll often have a lot of questions about what to do and where to go. Luckily, the staff here at The Independent Collegian knows what it’s like to be a freshman, which is why we print our UT 101 edition.

This paper is full of useful information, tricks to surviving on campus and advice from students who have already been in the same situation as you. Anything you need to know, from your bill to parking to dorm life to how to break out

of your personal bubble and become the “you” you need to be is inside this guide.

Other than UT 101, during the regular academic year we run a weekly paper that comes out every Wednesday morning. We distribute these for free in stands around campus and across Toledo in local businesses. All you have to do is walk into any building on campus and find a stand that says “Independent Collegian” and there you will have all the news you need.

It’s the perfect way to stay up-to-date on all things UT during the year.

We hope that your freshman year here at UT is everything you want it to be. Don’t be afraid to stop by and let us know. You can contact us at any time at editor@independentcollegian.com or on social media.

Also, stop by our office on the first floor of Carlson Library!

Have a great year and go Rockets!

IC Staff

Have a great first semester!

Go Rockets!

Jimmy Russell

RACHEL NEARHOOF / IC

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Mapping the ins and outs A guide to navigating UT’s web and portal systems

By Bryce Buyakie News Editor

The most important resources students use at the University of Toledo are the MyUT Portal and Blackboard. Not only do these websites save time, but they put everything a student needs in one place. From accessing grades and doing homework, to paying tuition and emailing professors, every student needs to know how to navigate these websites.

MyUT Portal:

MyUT Portal is the student’s own account where he or she can access all his/her academic records, make payments and email teachers.

How to find it: Go to the UT homepage and click MyUT to be directed to the portal. At the top of the page click “LOGIN”

and enter your UT username and password.

The “Student” tab is broken down into five sections. Under “My Toolkit,” you can register and drop classes, request parking permits, check final grades, apply for financial aid, pay for tuition and other expenses via View/Pay Bill (estatement), make Rocket card deposits and apply for student housing.

The right side of the Student tab has links to Blackboard and Rockets Email. Teachers and student organizations will send information through this email. Blackboard is essential for homework and grades. Lastly, calendars, schedules and important dates are listed at the bottom.

Under the “Student Resources” tab, there is

information regarding student organizations, campus life, college services, maps, links to offices including the Financial Aid and Rocket solution offices are listed.

The “UT Community” tab is dedicated to transportation, campus safety, health and wellness, campus dining, shopping and services, links to campus media, printable forms and technology services and software information.

“The Library” tab allows students to search and check out books and look up articles under the Electronic Resources section. There are also links to the various UT libraries and other services students can use, such as OhioLink.

The final tab is for the Medical College, UTMC. Here students can contact

IC FILE PHOTO / IC

My UT Portal is the homepage for all UT links and resources. Students can find links applying to housing, bills, parking and final grades. Links to the UT email and Blackboard can also be found on the page.

IC FILE UPLOAD / IC

Blackboard is an online resource for students to keep track of their grades and assignments. Teachers will post announcements, due dates, homework and other information here for students. Students should check their Blackboard regularly for updates.

UTMC and read up on recent news in that college.

Blackboard:

Blackboard is where all important information such as grades, homework, readings, quizzes and other resources, will be available for each class. To access Blackboard, return to the Student tab, click on Blackboard and login with the same information used for MyUT. The homepage is split into three columns. On the left is where updates will be added. The middle column lists courses being taken, student organizations and the current semester grades. On the right, various tools are listed along with the lists “To Do” and “My Tasks.”

Clicking on a course from the list will take you to that class’s respective homepage. On the left is a table of contents that

will include some combination of Start Here, Syllabus, Course News, Learner Support, LibGuides and My Grades.

Learner Support provides a variety of technical aid if you encounter any Blackboard-related problems. LibGuides redirects you to resources related to the course that may be useful for research or further explanations.

In the upper righthand corner is your name and a power button, and below that is My Institution, Student Support and Starfish. Student Support is a way for students to access academic resources and get help with Blackboard issues. Starfish is a program used by Success Coaches and instructors to reach out to students and improve their chances of success.

Clicking on your name

will open a drop box with five options on left and recently visited courses on the right. On the left the homepage, posts, updates, grades and a calendar for each class can be accessed.

For students who have any issues with either MyUT or Blackboard, there are two links at the top of the UT Portal page: MyUT Help and Account Maintenance.

TIP: Keep Blackboard bookmarked, so you don’t have to go through myUT portal.

Summer 2017 | The Independent Collegian | 5

What are you really paying for?

Looking into the fees students pay for their UT education

By Morgan Kovacs Staff Reporter

With college tuition and student loans being a hot topic today, it is time to take a deeper look into the University of Toledo’s tuition and fees. For an undergraduate full-time student, tuition is $4,025.88 instate and $8,694.84 out-of-state per semester. However, when all the extra fees are added in, the cost of attendance begins to rise.

So, what exactly are all these fees that cause tuition to steadily rise? Toledo’s finance brochure, found on the UT website, provides in-depth detail for each fee.

The largest fee is the general fee. For each credit, students are required to pay $49.60.

The maximum a student can be charged in general fees is $595.20 per semester. In the summer, that fee drops down to $29.76 for a maximum total of $357.12.

“Students paying the maximum (full-time rate) general fee are entitled to attend, free of charge or at a reduced admission fee, most activities spon-

sored by the Student Government, campus activities and all athletic events (student section), subject to seating limitations,” the brochure states.

Another category of fees falls into the program and miscellaneous fees. Among these fees is the technology fee and lab fee.

These expenses vary depending on the college each student is enrolled in and what classes each student is taking.

Along with the fees to support the renovation of Carlson library, there is also the Library Resource Information Fee. This costs $6 for undergraduate students and $8 for graduate students per credit hour.

“The library resource fee goes to support the purchased library books and electronic sources,” said Barbara Floyd, university archivist.

Students enrolled in at least one business undergraduate class pay a flat fee of $19 per semester for The Wall Street Journal. Students taking online courses must pay an extra $25 per course.

Though all previously stated fees are required, the legal ser-

Which fees are waivable?

Health Insurance: Not all students are required to have health insurance. Students who are required by their program to have health insurance can show that they already have it and waive the fee.

Legal Services: At $10 per semester, this fee gives students help with legal issues when they require it.

Green Fund Fee: The mission of the Student Green Fund is to make UT a more sustainable institution and to enhance its mission of improving the human condition by supporting green ideas and initiatives proposed, decided upon, implemented by and funded directly by students.

vices fee is able to be waived. It is $10 per semester and provides students with legal advice.

According to the University website this fee “provides access to licensed attorneys who can assist you in legal matters such as consumer issues, landlord issues and accident cases.”

Another fee able to be waived is for health insurance.

According to the brochure, “If a student is required by their program/college to have health care coverage, the charge for student health care coverage will be placed on the student account.”

Students required to have health care coverage include students in the MD program and in the colleges of nursing, pharmacy and pharmaceutical sciences, health sciences as well as student athletes.

The health insurance cost varies depending on the chosen insurance plan and semester.

However, if a student required to have health coverage has his/ her own comparable coverage, they can waive the fee.

On top of the miscellaneous fees and general fees, there are the optional added cost of the $125 parking permit, $30 Rocket I.D. card and the $5 waivable student green fund.

When looking at the costs of tuition, it is important to remember that $4,025.88 is not what you will end up paying. When all required funds are added to UT tuition, the total can be much higher.

It’s important to check your MyUT portal often to plan for your payments for the semester ahead.

Example of costs per semester: Tuition $4,026 General fee $595 Tech/lab fee $135 Facility fees $62.40 Library info fee $90 Wall Street Journal $19 Online classes (2) $50 Rocket Card $35 Legal services fee $10 Green fund fee $5 Parking permit $125 TOTAL:

$5,152.40

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Freshman commuter survival guide Embracing the K pass and your first year

PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY EMILY SCHNIPKE / IC

By Kristen Buchler Copy Editor

After being stuck in high school for four long years, many students dream of an opportunity to assert their independence and start fresh in the next chapter of their lives.

Often, this desire leads to moving into a dorm room at a university.

An on-campus residency offers several unique opportunities, such as living within walking distance to (most) classes, being able to go “home” and relax or nap during break periods and being able to see friends with just the turn of a doorknob.

As UT’s packed parking lots show, however, many students have made the choice to commute to campus.

For me, deciding to commute was a no-brainer. I live only 30 minutes away, so it just wasn’t practical in my personal situation to spend thousands on living with a stranger in a room smaller than the one I have at home.

Commuter students definitely live a different college experience than those who live on campus, so if you’re thinking about becoming a commuter at UT, here are a few tips to make your freshman year a success.

1.) Get to campus early, especially on the first day of classes. As you’ll surely find out, parking is competitive, and nobody wants to be stuck on the fifth floor of the East Ramp Parking Garage. Plus, showing up early will ensure

“Get to campus early, especially on the first day of classes. As you’ll surely find out, parking is competitive, and nobody wants to be stuck on the fifth floor of the East Ramp Parking Garage.”

KRISTEN BUCHLER Copy Editor

that you’re on time for class.

2.) Be prepared to walk. Lots that freshmen are permitted to park in are often the farthest from campus buildings, so keep that in mind. Also, if there’s even a chance of rain, bring an umbrella. Better yet, just keep one in your backpack.

3.) Embrace the “K” Pass.

Sure, we’d all love to have an “A” pass and be able to park in faculty lots, but the five minutes of walking that parking somewhere you’re not supposed to saves you isn’t worth the hassle from parking enforcement. Besides, walking across campus every day makes putting on the freshman 15 just a little less likely.

4.) Locate the lot that’s closest to your last class of the day. If, like me, you’d rather have a longer walk prior to your first class so you can make a fast getaway at

the end of the day, consider where you’ll be when you’re ready to leave. Getting home to your couch just two minutes sooner makes a world of difference.

5.) Find a place on campus that is your home away from home. Just because you don’t have a dorm room doesn’t mean you shouldn’t have a place to go when there’s a lull in your schedule. Some visit the commuter lounge. Others drop by the library. I go to The Independent Collegian office. Pinpoint some-

where where you’re comfortable and enjoy your time on campus.

6.) Enjoy your commute! I often find that the time I spend driving to campus is some of the only time I get completely to myself in the course of a day, and I honestly believe it’s crucial in maintaining my sanity. Some days I crank up my music and sing my heart out, while on other days I sort through the daily mess of thoughts that occupy my brain. (Don’t worry, I focus on driving and stuff, too.) As a commuter, you’re bound to spend at least some of your time stuck in a car, so make the best of it.

Follow these guidelines and your first semester as a college commuter is sure to be a breeze.

Well, probably. I’m a sophomore, not an expert.

Good luck, and happy parking!

“For me, deciding to commute was a nobrainer. I live only 30 minutes away, so it just wasn’t practical in my personal situation to spend thousands on living with a stranger...”

KRISTEN BUCHLER Copy Editor

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things to look forward to at

By Emily Jackson Managing Editor

Homecoming

Student Organization Fair

UT Songfest

From horsebackriding to Quidditch to knitting, there’s something for everyone to try or get involved in. The annual Student Organization Fair is held the first week of classes and is a great way to get connected. Academic, athletic, Greek and religious organizations will have informational tables set up outside in Centennial Mall. Meet people who have the same interests and passions as yourself and make some new friends along the way.

Student Appreciation Day Student Appreciation Day may be one of the biggest days for food and fun. You’ll have to wait all year for it, but I assure you it is totally worth the wait! Food trucks, popcorn, free Toledo gear, puppies, inflatables, games, music and more will fill Centennial Mall just before summer break.

This is one fun-filled day you won’t want to miss!

HIMANSH BHATNAGAR / IC

Sororities, fraternities and co-ed student organizations face-off in an epic battle of song and dance at this annual event. Students strut their stuff with costumes and props as they compete for the top spot.

But it’s not just about winning. This competition is one of UT’s oldest philanthropic events. Songfest raises funds for a different charity or cause each year. It’s aca-amazing!

Rockethon RACHEL NEARHOOF / IC

Homecoming is UT’s longest standing tradition and has taken place every fall since 1923. This annual event is marked by an entire week of activities such as the pre-game pep-rally, concerts, bonfires, a parade and, of course, the football game. The purpose of Homecoming week is to bring students, alumni and community members together to celebrate the Gold and Blue and what it really means to be a Rocket.

Big Event

The Battle of I-75 The University of Toledo vs. Bowling Green State University. This may be one of the greatest rivalries in all of collegiate athletics. For almost a century, the two have battled it out on the football field in hopes of victory, a trophy and bragging rights. Come out this fall and support your Rockets as they take on the Falcons and fight for an eight-year winning streak!

SAVANNAH JOSLIN / IC RACHEL NEARHOOF / IC

Get ready for a 13-hour dance marathon for the kids! This annual event takes place each spring and helps raise funds for Mercy Children’s Hospital. Since 2001, students, faculty, family and friends have danced their way to raising almost $1 million to support research and technology for the kids at Mercy.

UT students come together each year to thank the Toledo community in this one big day of service. Participants show their support by volunteering to clean up the neighborhoods surrounding campus. Projects include yard work, window washing, painting and much more.

8 | The Independent Collegian | Summer 2017

Fall sports take to the field

By Sam Williams Sports Editor

The University of Toledo has one of the strongest fan bases in the MAC, and fall sports are the perfect way to welcome all fans new and old back into the Rocket family. As students return to the classrooms, fall sports will also be starting up. With so many sports and events for students to attend, there will never be a shortage of athletic competition at the University of Toledo.

FOOTBALL

The always popular Toledo Rockets football team will be returning to the Glass Bowl Aug. 31 to open their 2017 season. The midnight gold and blue will be facing Elon University, a matchup that the Rockets are hoping will give a good start to the teams 2017 season. The Rockets lost a lot of great talent in last year’s senior class, but with

quarterback Logan Woodside and an arsenal of explosive receivers returning, expect the Rockets to be a team focused on their strong offense, with intense, high-scoring games.

SOCCER

University of Toledo soccer finished last season 8-10-1 (MAC 3-7-1) and will be looking to improve upon that in the 2017 season. This season the team will be adding some fresh faces, as the team welcomes nine new signees and Rachelle Topolewski, a transfer from St. Louis University.

“We are very excited to announce this 2017 class,” said head coach TJ Buchholz to UTRockets. “This is our staff ’s first true recruiting class, and it’s a class that meets a variety of needs for our soccer program.

We feel strongly about all the players committing to us today, and a special thanks goes to assistant coach Jessica Nei for her

RACHEL NEARHOOF / IC

Former running back Kareem Hunt pushes past the Central Michigan University Chippewas Oct. 22 during a game in the Glass Bowl.

outstanding work as the recruiting coordinator for the program.”

The soccer season will open the fall season Aug. 18 against the University of Detroit Mercy.

VOLLEYBALL

Last year’s women’s volleyball season saw success for the Rockets, making it to MAC Tournament quarterfinals and leading their conference with 10 academic all-MAC selections. This season the Rockets will look to have an even greater season, and are primed to do so. The Rockets are adding four new members in Caleigh Bahorst, Rhyen Neal, Chloe Kleespies and Emma Swope to their incoming recruiting class.

“We feel that when you combine Caleigh and Rhyen with our fall signees, Chloe and Emma, we will have a recruiting class that can make a difference right away,” said volleyball head coach Greg Smith.

Cricket West 3160 Markway Road Toledo, OH 43606 419.407.5038

www.siptoledo.com hello@siptoledo.com Instagram: Siptoledo

The Rocket volleyball season will start off Aug. 25 at the Fort Wayne Invitational.

GOLF

Although the men’s golf team is currently in search of their new head coach, the team will be looking to improve upon their spring season in the fall. The Rockets finished the fall MAC championship in eighth place with a score of 45 over par 1,197.

The women’s golf team finished their MAC championship in fifth place and made some moves in the off season The 2017 Rocket athletic season will be an exciting and busy one. Every team should be competitive, and every team should have great crowds cheering them on at all of their home events. Grab some friends and head to the Glass Bowl to watch the Rockets score, or go to Savage arena to watch some aces.

Whatever your competition preference, UT will have something for you. Go Rockets!

RACHEL NEARHOOF / IC

The women’s soccer team celebrates a penalty kick Sept. 23 in a game against Kent State University. The Rockets lost 1-2.

Summer 2017 | The Independent Collegian | 9

Off the beaten track UT club sports offer students the chance to be involved

By Jackson Rogers Associate Sports Editor

While they may not get the publicity of varsity sports, club sports at the University of Toledo are still a big part of the campus’s fabric. UT offers 22 club sports: eight offered for men, five for women and nine co-ed.

“I think that having club sports gives students opportunities to disconnect with the everyday college struggles,” UT men’s club volleyball president Keiichi Koshino said. “They’re able to enjoy a sport they love. Not only that, but it gives students a sense of belonging and friendship that last throughout college and perhaps even longer”.

The men’s sports include baseball, bowling, lacrosse, soccer, ultimate Frisbee, hockey, volleyball and wrestling. The women’s sports include bowling, lacrosse, soccer, ultimate frisbee and volleyball.

The co-ed sports include cross country and track, fencing, Quidditch, rowing, sailing, swimming, table tennis, tennis and water polo.

The clubs compete against other universities, compete in a conference and practice several times a week. Anybody can join a club, giving students a unique opportunity to enhance their college experience.

Each club is given roughly a $60,000 budget to pay for travel costs, gear, etc.

Most of the payments come from the players through dues and fundraising.

Clubs provide students a break from the rigors of class and studying to represent UT on various playing fields.

One of the older clubs on campus is men’s hockey. The hockey club was established in 1966, won their conference nine times, advanced to regionals three times and won a national championship in 1992.

The Rockets compete in the American Collegiate Hockey Association. Their conference is called the Tri-State Collegiate Hockey League.

This conference includes the University of Akron, University of Cincinnati, University of Day-

ton, Indiana University of Pennsylvania, Ohio University, University of Pittsburgh, West Virginia University and Wright State University.

A newer club, established in 2016, is the men’s volleyball team. The team travels across the Midwest to compete in weekend-long tournaments against other universities of the same size.

“I think that having club sports gives students opportunities to disconnect with the everyday college struggles.”

KEIICHI KOSHINO UT Men’s Volleyball Club President

“When I first came to college, I was very eager to play competitive volleyball at the collegiate level,” Koshino said, “I went to the Rec Center to ask about men’s club volleyball, and they said it didn’t exist.

They then asked if I would be interested in starting, and I denied it at first. It wasn’t until I started playing competitively at the rec when I started to wonder if I could start the program here at UT.” During their first year in existence, the Rockets started off slow, going 1-13. They improved vastly in year two with a 7-7 record and placed third in the silver bracket at the Division IAAA National Championships in Kansas City, Missouri.

“Our goal has always been to give students the opportunity to compete in collegiate volleyball” Koshino said.

“With that being said, our goal is to expand our program and to compete better.”

Club sports are an important part of UT’s campus, giving students opportunities to continue their passions through sports.

With driven students leading the charge, UT’s sports clubs should have success for years to come.

COURTESY OF SAVANNAH JOSLIN

The women’s bowling team poses after the American Heartland Conference in Columbus, Ohio.

10 | The Independent Collegian | Summer 2017

Avoiding the tickets An inside look at all the policies and procedures of the University of Toledo parking system

By Emily Schnipke Editor-in-chief

RACHEL NEARHOOF / IC

Freshman commuter parking locations: • Parking lot 2 — in front of the East Ramp.

• The East Ramp/parking garage • Parking lots 3, 4 and 5 — located next to the John F. Savage Arena • Parking lot 8 — behind Carter Hall • Rocket Hall parking lots • Parking lot 20 — south of Palmer Hall on Engineering Campus.

• Parking lot 18 — behind the University Computer Center and the Recreation Center

To avoid being ticketed at the University of Toledo, it is essential for all first-year commuters to know where to park, when to purchase parking passes and how to nab a decent parking spot before class.

At the beginning of every semester, each student who plans to have a car on campus should purchase a parking permit, the current cost of which is $125 per semester for commuters and $100 for freshman residential. You can purchase your parking pass by going to the MyUT portal and visiting the correct tab.

UT offers many parking lots and garages available to students. Once registered for a parking permit, students are assigned a permit type. While there may be many parking spots available, students can only park in lots where their permit type is allowed.

Student parking permits are based on earned credit hours, on- or off-campus residency and program types. What parking permit type a student has can be accessed from the student’s account on the MyUT portal under the Student tab.

The most typical types of permit amongst students include C, D, F, and K. Both C and D are obtained by upperclassmen, and F and K are assigned to freshmen. F permits are for residential students and K permits are assigned to commuting students.

Residential freshmen are currently only allowed to park on the Scott Park campus, which is a gated and secured lot accessible by walking or UT bus transportation.

On UT’s main campus, freshman commuters may park in the following parking lots: - Parking lot 2, which is in front of the east ramp.

- The east ramp - Parking lot 3, 4 and 5: all located next to Savage Arena

PARKING VIOLATION

- Parking lot 8 (behind Carter Hall) - Rocket Hall - Parking lot 20, located south of Palmer Hall - Parking lot 18, which is located behind the Rec Center.

If a friend or parent is visiting for the day, guest permits are available for them to purchase on UT’s website.

Guest permits are $3 per day and are the equivalent of a C permit, meaning the guest may park in any unrestricted lot. A weekend visitor will not require a guest pass because there is no enforcement for parking violations on the weekend.

UT’s parking policy states that Main Campus commuter student parking spaces are indicated by white lines painted directly on the parking surface and, between the hours of 4 p.m. and 7 a.m., commuter students

may park in any approved faculty/ staff (yellow-line) space.

To avoid receiving a ticket, students should also park so that their license plate faces the aisle. If a student has only one license plate on the rear bumper, they have to pull into the spot so that any UT police office or parking enforcement can easily see and scan your plate.

Changes are coming for the Fall 2017 semester for students and faculty to post printed permits on their vehicle as proof they have a permit.

More information will be announced about other parking changes as the school year approaches.

For additional information concerning UT’s parking system, student and parents may visit www.utoledo.edu/parking-services or call the Main Campus Transportation Center at (419) 530-4100.

PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY RACHEL NEARHOOF / IC

Parking reminders to register your vehicle or to park in the correct lots are left by UT Parking Enforcement on your vehicle.

Summer 2017 | The Independent Collegian | 11

Parking woes

AMBER THOMAS

IC COLUMNIST

The ups and downs of making your way around campus and finding a place to park

Walk up to any student on the University of Toledo’s campus and you can start a conversation with just one word: parking.

Anyone and everyone has an opinion about parking passes, lots and the difficulty of finding a decent spot. Ask them if they’ve ever received a parking violation and you’ll never hear the end of it. Parking is a major sore spot among UT’s student population, but not without reason.

I’ve incurred 15 tickets over the course of one semester at UT, and let’s not even talk about the semesters prior to that. You are already wearing a mortgage around your neck with all the loans you’ve already taken out. Welcome to the “I am going to be paying off debt for the next 22 years” club. No one wants to pay even more for parking in the wrong location, whether on accident or knowingly.

In my opinion, unless you’re a freshman commuter, having a parking permit during your first year of college is completely

HIRING! UT Dining is accepting applications for all of our dining locations for the Fall semester!

Visit UTDiningJobs.com to apply!

pointless. Your car can only be parked at Scott Park, which is a good walking distance away. Students can ride the bus to Scott Park to pick up their car, but even then, you can’t park on Main Campus (unless it’s the weekend). Scott Park is securely guarded, but unless you drive home often enough for you to need a car, paying for a $100 parking pass isn’t worth it.

One thing I’m happy my tuition pays for is UT’s transportation services. It has saved me in the harshest of weathers. UT’s buses run Blue and Gold routes on campus, but

they also make runs to Scott Park, Walmart, Franklin Park Mall and several apartment complexes. Downloading the app on your phone and figuring out the bus routes will save you from parking hassles. Take it from someone with firsthand experience.

After your freshman year, the commuter life gets a little easier. Parking permits cost $125, unfortunately. That’s just for one semester — don’t be like me and think that will cover the entire year.

See Parking / 14 »

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12 | The Independent Collegian | Summer 2017

places at UT

By Rachel Nearhoof and Emily Schnipke Director of Photography and Editor-in-chief

In 2003, the University of Toledo was ranked in “The Unofficial, Unbiased Guide to the 328 Most Interesting Colleges” as one of the most beautiful, urban college campuses in the country. As students, we see this beauty everyday but may not recognize it when we walk past.

Here are some of our favorite and most beautiful places on campus!

A. The Glass Bowl

UT’s Glass Bowl is more than just a stadium. When the stands are filled with cheering fans on a day with clear skies, to us it’s one of the best places to be. The cobblestone facade mixed with the bright colored turf is a combo not to be missed. The view of the sunsetbacked Bell Tower is a photo worthy of a million likes.

B. Centennial Mall

The oddly shaped center of Main Campus is complete with an abundance of trees to hang your hammock in, flowers to sniff and sidewalks leading to all your favorite places. In the Blizzard of 1978, students walked across what was then an empty lot of grass and formed what is today the path of sidewalks. It’s a great place for a picnic, a nap or a chill guitar session.

A

C. University Hall

As the oldest building on campus, it holds the place closest to our hearts. The staircases that seem to lead to nowhere and the third floor entrance from Bancroft are some of our favorite parts. The whole building is very mysterious and fun to explore. The exterior of University Hall is beautiful in all weather; from being topped with snow, cloaked in sun, surrounded by cherry blossoms to being covered in fall foliage, every season is stunning at UT. See Instagram / 21 »

B

C

PHOTOS BY RACHEL NEARHOOF / IC

Summer 2017 | The Independent Collegian | 13

14 | The Independent Collegian | Summer 2017 Parking from page 11

Make sure you’re ready to fork over another $125 for every semester here, even during the summer if you’ll be taking classes then. Once, I received a ticket for “Failure to register vehicle” because I thought that I was all set after purchasing the first pass and boy, was I wrong.

UT has a very special system for telling you where you can park. Pay close attention to the letter you are assigned after purchasing your pass. The letter dictates where you can and can’t park.

“F” is for freshman residential, “K” is for freshman commuters, “D” is for upper

class residential, and “C” is for upper class commuter. Administrators, faculty, and other special exceptions can be issued an “A” pass, which is for parking in all lots on campus.

As you navigate your way around campus, you will notice the letters connected to the light posts in parking lots. A handy tip I learned is that yellow parking spots are for A passes and white lines are for everybody else. If you park in a parking lot where your pass isn’t allowed, you are in danger of getting a ticket.

If you really don’t like following the rules, you can be a rebel like myself, who parks anywhere because I hate walking long

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“If you really don’t like following the rules, you be a rebel like myself who parks anywhere because I hate walking long distances.” distances. Unfortunately, due to this lethargic attitude, I’ve received several parking violations, including ones that say “Failure to observe posted parking restrictions” for $30 and “Failure to register vehicle” for $50. Parking violations will be sent to your UT email address.

Lucky for you and I, UT allows us to appeal out tickets. The appealing process had become my best friend.

When you get a ticket, a reminder will come to your email and near the end is the option to appeal. Whether you feel like the ticket was

unjust or you just can’t deal with paying for all these tickets, appealing is the way to go.

After all, who wants to pay $80 to UT when you can appeal a ticket and use that money to treat yourself to mani-pedi and still have some left over to go to Auntie Ann’s and get an almond crunch pretzel with cream cheese on the side?

Parking on campus can suck at times, but if you know how to navigate it the right way, you hopefully won’t end up like me with 15 tickets in my second year and more to come in the future.

“UT has a very special system for telling you where you can park. Pay close attention to the letter you are assigned after purchasing your pass. The letter dictates where you can and can’t park.”

Summer 2017 | The Independent Collegian | 15

Living with a roommate... for the first time Sample “Roomie Rules”

about ourselves and the

By Emily Lorton Staff Reporter

Moving to college can be quite an adjustment, especially if you plan on living in a dorm. The biggest part of moving to college is deciding who you are going to live with. Some students may plan to live with someone they grew up with or a friend from high school.

Some students even meet their roommates through the dorm’s Facebook page.

The rest of us fill out a random roommate form and hope for the best.

I was one of many who sent in that roommate matching form with my fingers crossed, hoping the system would work its magic.

I chose to live in the Honors Academic Village, so I shared a bedroom with one girl and a bathroom with her and two girls that lived on the other side.

When we were emailed each other’s names, the first thing we did is stalk each other on any and all social media. After that step was complete, we started a group chat in which we determined who was going to bring certain items we would all be sharing (i.e. toilet paper, shower curtains, bathroom cleaner).

It’s really nice to distribute all these things evenly so no one gets stuck buying it all. In addition, it’s a good idea to buy extras of these things (if you can afford it) because when you run out a few months into the year, chances are everyone’s broke and doesn’t want to buy more.

My roommates and I also talked a little bit

things we enjoyed doing, just so we all had a pretty good idea of what we were getting ourselves into.

Sharing a room will take some getting used to because you both probably have very different schedules. I would wake up in the morning and try to be as quiet as I could be so I didn’t wake my roommate, and she did the same.

My roommates and I didn’t set too many rules. There was a general understanding that we all needed to be respectful of one another’s space and sleeping schedule. Although, looking back, there probably should have been some sort of rule set for who takes out the trash!

In the end, living in close proximity with your roommates forces you to become close and very comfortable with one another. We would get dinner and lunch together often, watch “The Bachelor” every Monday night and go on little excursions around Toledo when we were bored.

Also, your roommates are there to see all your mental breakdowns, low points and any other troubles you may encounter while you’re there, and if they’re anything like mine, they’ll help you through them all.

Having random roommates was the best choice I made, not only because I lived with some incredible girls, but because I made forever friends thanks to the magical matching form.

• Don’t be a slob! Pick up after yourself.

• Ask to before you borrow and return it back to them in good time.

• If your roommate is trying to study, shut up.

• If something is bothering you about your roommate, talk about it before you end up resenting them for it.

• Invite people over after clearing it with your roommate.

• Keep the nudity to a minimum.

• Being roommates doesn’t mean being best friends. Don’t force a friendship.

• Follow the Golden Rule: Treat them like you would treat yourself!

• Significant others spending the night?

Talk it over beforehand!

• Don’t eat my food — the mac n’ cheese and Oreos are off limits!

Writers, writers,

writers!

The Independent Collegian needs copy editors!

Do you have a knack for proper grammar?

Do you have a sharp eye for mistakes?

Do you want a part-time job that is on main campus?

Send an email to editor@independentcollegian.com or stop by our office in Carlson Library to pick up an application.

Are you interested in covering campus and local events, including sporting events and concerts?

Apply to be a staff reporter for The Independent Collegian!

Send an email to

editor@independentcollegian.com

or stop in our office in Carlson Library to pick up an application.

16 | The Independent Collegian | Summer 2017

A guide to Greek Life at UT

By Areeba Shah Community Editor

EMILY SCHNIPKE / IC

For some college students, being involved in Greek Life is a major part of their identities. Others wonder what going Greek really means.

For third-year political science and German major Alex DiBell it means making lifelong friendships, serving the community and exceeding academically.

“I could literally go on for hours as to how the fraternities have benefited me and impacted me not in just my college experience but my personal development as well,” DiBell said.

DiBell is the president of the Inter-Fraternity Council and has been a member of Phi Gamma Delta, aka FIJI, since his freshman year.

Through FIJI, DiBell has participated in service events like Rockethon and Relay for Life. The fraternity also hosts its own philanthropy dinners raising money for the Children’s Miracle Network.

“We cherish brotherhood and try to invite as many people into that brotherhood,” DiBell said.

FIJI uses its five core values: friendship, knowledge, service, morality and excellence to

make a greater impact on the Toledo community.

When it comes to recruitment, DiBell advices individuals to shift their focus from impressing fraternity members to instead focus on being themselves.

“There is a fraternity that is right for you but don’t try to sell yourself as something you’re not,” DiBell said. “There is a place for everybody.”

“There is a fraternity that is right for you but don’t try to sell yourself as something you’re not.”

ALEX DIBELLI Inter-Fraternity Council President

With 30 organizations available to University of Toledo students, individuals have the opportunity to explore fraternities and sororities whose goals and values align best with theirs.

“Being Greek may not be for everyone, but you wouldn’t know if it’s for you or not if you don’t

RACHEL NEARHOOF / IC

Sisters of the sorority Kappa Delta walk together in the 2016 Homecoming Parade. Members of the Greek system at UT participate in a variety of events during the academic year.

try,” third-year psychology major Rachel Whitman said.

Whitman has been a part of Delta Pi Epsilon for two years.

“I fell in love with the sisterhood, the service and their dedication to their philanthropy,” Whitman said.

Whitman said Delta Pi hosts different events helping members bond and improve themselves through

serving the campus.

Although the recruitment process can be overwhelming at times, according to Whitman, it helps potential members find a chapter they can call their home.

“Each sorority has its own personality. What I love about ours is that we’re very inclusive,” Whitman said.

She added they don’t care about physical characteristics or different opinions. You are valued for being a person.

Third-year biology premed major Chloe Wagenhauser has been a member of Chi Omega for a year now and believes it has allowed her to form new bonds and get more involved in the university.

“I’ve just a met a ton of girls who support me in whatever I do, and if there’s anything going on in my

life or if I need someone there, I know I have like 60 other girls who would be right there to help me if I ever needed anything,” Wagenhauser said.

She says Chi Omega is a diverse group of women who are all caring, funny and wellrounded individuals.

“You see all these movies with people who party who are in Greek Life and it’s so much more than that,” Wagenhauser said.

Going Greek is not necessarily about joining social organizations. There are also professional See Greek / 17 »

“Each sorority has its own personality. What I love about ours is that we’re very inclusive.”

RACHEL WHITMAN Delta Phi Epsilon

Summer 2017 | The Independent Collegian | 17

Y SC E M IL H N IP KE / IC

RACHEL NEARHOOF / IC

Professional co-ed fraternity Zeta Phi Eta walks in the 2016 Homecoming Parade.

Greek

from page 16

EMILY SCHNIPKE / IC

and service fraternities available at UT. P4 pharmacy major Ami Mehta is a part of the professional pharmacy fraternity, Lambda Kappa Sigma, which aims to provide women with lifelong opportunities in pharmacy through personal growth and professional development.

“I felt like I made friends that were really true and still talk to them.

They became like mentors as well,”

Mehta said.

Mehta said she seeks advice from her other friends since they are all on the same pathway.

“Greek Life often carries a lot of stigmas and stereotypes, and I would just encourage people that are hesitant or confused about Greek Life to come out and give Greek Life a chance,” DiBell said.

Students interested in learning about what different fraternities and sororities have to offer can visit OrgSync.

“Greek Life often carries a lot of stigmas and stereotypes, and I would just encourage people that are hesitant or confused about Greek Life to come out and give Greek Life a chance.”

ALEX DIBELLI Inter-Fraternity Council President

$344 “I’ve just a met a ton of girls who support me in whatever I do, and if there’s anything going on in my life or if I need someone there, I know I have like 60 other girls who would be right there to help me if I ever needed anything.”

CHLOE WAGENHAUSER Chi Omega

$399

18 | The Independent Collegian | Summer 2017

EMILY SCHNIPKE EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Going off to college can create the best, and /or worst, times of your life. It’s filled with fun experiences, amazing people and, even better, lots of free food and T-shirts.

There is so much excitement to be had, but it’s hard to tell what not to do and what you should do. Here’s a few tried-and-true tips from me, who survived freshman year with all limbs attached.

- Living in the dorms is a college experience you shouldn’t miss out on. Some students live in Toledo, and living on campus doesn’t make

PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY EMILY SCHNIPKE / IC

much financial sense for them.

Being a commuter freshman year forces you to work much harder to become connected to the university. Living in the dorm gives you an automatic connection with your roommates — even if you don’t become the best of friends.

Students who try to use the loophole of living within the 25mile radius to live in an apartment off-campus with their friends miss out on meeting new people just by living with them. It’s harder in President’s and the Ottawas, but go out and meet people in your dorm.

The suite style of dorms is hard to have an open doorway of living, but it’s worth it to make more friends outside of your room.

Go to those floor meetings and the events hosted by your RA. Make more friends.

- Going out and having fun is an important facet of college life. But don’t forget as to why you are here. You’re here at college to go to school and learn.

Also, you pay for each and every one of your classes. Don’t waste your time and money by not studying enough and not learning while you’re there.

Remember, earning a tough degree requires a lot of tough

work. You can have a great time and get good grades, but don’t do things that you’ll regret. Go to class and learn something. Don’t get arrested, take drugs, or do anything that will interfere with your ability to succeed. You have the potential to do great things with your life. Don’t mess it up with something that made one night in college “awesome.”

- This next tip seems trivial, but for many is pretty intimidating and can be the worst thing on the planet. Talk to the people you sit next to in class. Get their phone numbers. Add them as friends on Facebook. What?! You want me to make friends?! Yes! When it becomes that time for an exam review or homework assignment you missed because you weren’t

there, it makes a difference to have a friend in your class. They can fill you in and provide a much needed ally for group projects.

- Don’t take that 8 a.m. or even 9 a.m. lecture. Nothing is worth trekking across campus in two feet of snow in the middle of December. The first time you fall down crossing the ice-covered railroad tracks is just as bad as the fourth time. Also, if you shower in the morning, welcome to icicle hair.

- One of the most common things I hear when people tell me about why they dropped out of UT or switched to another college is that they didn’t connect with Toledo. I can’t believe them. There is so much to do here. I would know; I’ve lived here for three years already. Toledo is more than the UT campus.

As a freshman, make a friend who is a commuter or keeps their car near campus. On Fridays , when most students don’t have class, don’t just go to the mall. Drive downtown.

Visit the shops and pretentious coffee places. Go to a Mud Hens or Walleye game. Get pancakes from Uncle John’s Pancake House. Go for a bike ride in Wildwood Metropark.

If you don’t know what’s out there, it’ll make it harder to want to stay.

I love Toledo, the Glass City. Be proud of where you go to school. By connecting with your city, you can find fun, happiness and even a future place to live.

- The best part about college is finding yourself. Take that class on social justice, photography, international business, or story writing just because you want to. Go to poetry night, frat parties, dance marathon and that lame movie your RA is setting up for your dorm floor.

It took me a little bit to find out who I wanted to be at college.

I became more confident in my abilities and who I am as a person.

I’m not the same Emily that entered college, and that is the best part about college. Growing up is very important and you get that by falling down and picking yourself back up. Now is the time to decide what you like without the judgmental eyes of your parents and best friends from high school. Go join the science club even if you’re majoring in English. Who cares?

No one, because everyone is finding him or herself, just like you.

No one will ever have the exact same college experience as you.

Many of us go through similar situations, but only you can work your way through it. Going to college is a life-changing moment, but it is just that: a moment in your life. You can pick and choose what you do while you’re here, but you have to choose how this time defines you.

Summer 2017 | The Independent Collegian | 19

Take the leap: Study abroad while in college MORGAN KOVACS STAFF REPORTER

As I approach my final year at the University of Toledo, I find myself naturally reflective of my previous three years spent here. It is with zero uncertainty that I make this statement: Studying abroad was the best decision I made at UT. While during my first year at college I matured greatly, it was not until I studied abroad that I actually felt like a full-fledged adult. I returned to the

US feeling as though I was capable of anything.

I studied in Brighton, England during the fall semester of my sophomore year, which is rather early in the college career to study abroad; my philosophy is that if you continue to put something off, it never gets done, hence why I pressure anyone with even the slightest desire of studying abroad to fill out the paperwork ASAP. My biggest fear about studying abroad had nothing to do with stolen passports or hellish hostels, but rather the magnitude of the cost and how it could hinder me later in life. Evidently, my worry was fruitless, as studying abroad can be even cheaper than attending UT depending on the country and program you choose.

However, if you decide to choose an expensive country — like I did — UT provides travel grants and scholarships to help lessen the cost. With the help of the Center for International Studies and Programs, I still paid way less for a semester abroad than my friends paid

for a college two hours away.

Another lethal misconception that deters students from studying abroad is the idea that leaving their hometown and living on a college campus constitutes “getting away.”

If you’re a student who lives hours away, while it’s great you’ve gotten out of your hometown — if that was your aim — please, I beg you not to become stagnant. The world is massive and it’s waiting.

If you decide to study abroad, I have two major words of advice: 1. Go alone.

2. Go without expectations.

I love my friends dearly, but I know had they tagged along on my European adventure, I wouldn’t have had such an opportunity for growth. Due to complacency, I wouldn’t have ventured as far

out of my comfort zone and met all the amazing people I did.

Before I left for England, I conjured expectations. Almost nothing happened like I pictured, yet it was somehow better. Though it’s hard — studying abroad or travel in general — I find is best when gone into blind.

I could rattle on about stories from nights in Brighton, London, Amsterdam, Paris, Budapest or Dublin, but surely it’s better if you create your own.

This might be the best opportunity you get to make the world your playground.

Studying abroad isn’t for everyone and I am done shoving the idea down your throat. Regardless of whether or not you decide to do it, your time at college is going to pass by quickly. Take charge of it.

Before I left for England, I conjured expectations. Almost nothing happened like I pictured, yet it was somehow better. Though it’s hard — studying abroad or travel in general — I find is best when gone into blind.

MO

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IC

20 | The Independent Collegian | Summer 2017

Why I chose a Living Learning Community As a freshman in college, everything is new. You have to share a new room with a new person on a new campus with new professors and new peers.

Freshman year is truly just a mass amount of freshly freed adults, wandering aimlessly through the year and making mess after mess as they try to figure out, “What the hell am I supposed to do now?”

Most resident advisers will say the first step is to go out and be involved in the community, but reaching out and making friends with everyone is a lot harder than it’s cracked up to be.

JESSICA HARKER OPINION EDITOR

it turns out, anyone with any major could have joined.

Freshman year is truly just a mass amount of freshly freed adults, wandering aimlessly through the year and making mess after mess as they try to figure out, “What the hell am I supposed to do now?”

This can be especially true if it’s one of your first times away from home, or if you and your roommate aren’t the instant best friends all the chickflicks said you’d be. This is why joining a Living Learning Community as a freshman is such a good idea.

As a freshman in 2014, I joined what was then called the Arts Living Learning Community. Housed in the 5th floor of Ottawa East residence hall, we got course credit both fall and spring semester for joining the “class.”

Though to call it a class wouldn’t really do the ALLC justice — we didn’t take tests or learn anything really, we just hung out. As a communication major, I wasn’t even sure I was going to be allowed to join and almost didn’t even try.

But I figure the college I was in is the college of College of Communication and the Arts, so they can’t really tell me no, right? Well, they didn’t, and as

All that was required was that you went to a weekly meeting and paid a small fee, which financed a huge number of trips during the year. The year I joined, we went to plays, saw movies, took trips to museums and even went to Chicago for a weekend trip.

I got to live on the same floor with people who had similar interests. We all became very good

I got to live on the same floor with people who had similar interests.

We all became very good friends, and even almost three years later I’m still best friends with the people I met there.

friends, and even almost three years later I’m still best friends with the people I met there.

The benefits of finding a Living Learning Community that fits your interests are substantial. As a freshman, you need to pounce on every opportunity to force yourself out of the personal bubble called your dorm room and socialize.

I spent too much time in a blanket fort watching “The L-Word” and “Bob’s Burgers” on Netflix — being part of the ALLC was just the push I needed to join the land of the living.

This is also a great way to find groups of people to study with and create a group of your own for support in your classes, since you’ll be surrounded with people who have the same or similar majors.

So if you do decide that your bed is just too cozy and it’s just too cold to walk to class that day, you’ll have someone to help you out.

Although the ALLC no longer exists at UT, there are still a bunch of other cool Living Learning Communities you can join on campus.

There’s one for business students, for engineering students, medical students, honors students and many more.

If you don’t feel like any of them fit you, there’s also the First Year Experience community, which is broader than the other communities and that every freshman who lives in Parks Tower is required to join.

Overall, joining a Living Learning Community as a freshman made my first year bearable, even enjoyable! It’s not easy, being new, and sometimes it’s more about surviving than “realizing the true freshman experience.”

The ALLC pushed me out of my comfort zone and helped me make lifelong friends. It’s an experience everyone should have, and I encourage you to do it.

EMILY SCHNIPKE / IC

Residence halls at UT such as the Horton International House (above) and the Honors Academic Village (below) host specialized living communities for students.

SPECIALIZED LIVING COMMUNITIES AT UT LIVING LEARNING COMMUNITIES: • Business and Innovation Living Learning Community • Engineering Living Learning Community • Health Professions Living Learning Community • Health, Wellness and Leisure Living Learning Community • Politics, Law and Humanities Living Learning Community • Honors Living Learning Community • Multicultural Emerging Scholars Program

SPECIAL INTEREST COMMUNITIES: • Alcohol and Substance Free Floors • Diversity in the Arts Special Interest Community • First-Year Experience • Gender Neutral Community

Visit the Office of Residence Life’s website to learn more!

Summer 2017 | The Independent Collegian | 21 Instagram from page 12

D. Fountain of Excellence

This serene spot is tucked away next to a side entrance of University Hall. The sounds of the mini waterfalls are relaxing and it’s a great place to sit and enjoy the scene.

E. Ottawa River

The hidden staircases, made of river rocks, take you down to the river. A view many students don’t venture to see, this wa-

terway divides campus and is a habitat for ducks, fish and the Campus Cat. Be careful: when the river floods, these staircases are hidden and can be dangerous. One is near the Carlson Library foot bridge.

F. University Hall Courtyards

Tucked away inside of the already beautiful University Hall, two courtyards off of the second floor are hidden treasures. Two massive trees tower over a green landscape for your studying/relaxing pleasure.

D

PHOTOS BY RACHEL NEARHOOF / IC

F

E

22 | The Independent Collegian | Summer 2017 ABOUT THIS PUBLICATION UT 101 is a special edition produced by The Independent Collegian, the University of Toledo’s student newspaper.

Editor-in-Chief Emily Schnipke Editors Bryce Buyakie, Morgan Kovacs, Areeba Shah Photography Rachel Nearhoof, director Copy Editor Kristen Buchler Advertising Joe Stechshulte, sales Joe Heidenescher, director Distribution Jed Shilling, manager COLLEGIAN MEDIA FOUNDATION Adviser Haley Schmucker The Independent Collegian is published by the Collegian Media Foundation, a private, not-for-profit corporation. © 2017

ABOUT THE INDEPENDENT COLLEGIAN UT’s student newspaper was founded as The Universi-Teaser in 1919. For much of its life, the paper was simply called The Collegian and was funded in part by UT. But in 2000, facing attempts by then-president Vik Kapoor to excercise more control over the paper — including trying to install his own choice for editor-in-chief — the paper moved towards organizational independence.

Kapoor was forced to resign in the spring and in the fall, The Independent Collegian was born. With help from faculty, the UT board of trustees and the local press, the IC severed ties with the university and moved off-campus.

Although the IC now leases a space in Carlson Library, it is still independently run by the Collegian Media Foundation, a 501(c)3 nonprofit. The IC is committed to remain a strong, independent voice for the UT community.

The Independent Collegian Visit us at Carlson Library, Suite 1057 Write to us at 2801 W. Bancroft St., Mail Stop 530 Toledo, OH 43606 Contact the editor at editor@independentcollegian.com Advertise by emailing sales@independentcollegian.com Phone: 419-530-7788 Fax: 419-530-7770

Navigating UT’s transportation system

By Jessica Harker Opinion Editor

Whether you’re living on campus at the University of Toledo or you’re commuting every day, there are lots of ways to get around campus.

Diana Watts, the transit program director, said the transportation system is easy to use if students take the time to understand it.

“UT Transit Services is available to students, faculty and staff free of charge with a valid UT ID,” Watts wrote in a previous interview. “All current schedules, maps and times of departures are on our website at http://transit.utoledo. edu. You can also call our office if you need more explanation.”

“UT Transit Services is available to students, faculty and staff free of charge with a valid UT ID.” DIANA WATTS Transit Program Director

For transportation on campus, Watts said there are two main buses, the Gold Loop and the Blue Loop, that circle campus most days of the week.

They make loops in opposite directions all days of the school week from 7:30 a.m. until just

after 10 p.m. They make stops at the busiest places on campus, including the Student Union, Engineering Campus and the West Ramp Parking Garage.

“Parking around the center of campus can be challenging, and I have seen students circle lots sometimes up to 15 minutes to try and find a parking spot, when they could have parked in Lot 25 or 20 and ride the shuttle into the center of campus quicker,” Watts wrote.

Along with transportation on campus, the university has multiple opportunities for transportation off campus as well. There are routes to the Toledo Museum of Art and the Health Science Campus on weekdays.

“Many students are surprised to learn that our bus takes you directly to the Toledo Art Museum, which has free admission,” Watts wrote.

“The museum does charge for parking, but if you ride the shuttle, you have a nice afternoon of exploring one of the most amazing museums in the United States for free.”

There is also a stop to a Wal-Mart incorporated into the Health Science Campus route Monday through Friday starting at 5 p.m., allowing students to get the things they need that they cannot buy on campus.

Freshmen living on campus must park at Scott Park. There are a couple of options available to students looking to retrieve cars.

“Freshmen who are having to park on the Scott Park Campus can utilize our shuttle to obtain their vehicles Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sunday 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. Afterhours service to Scott Park is provided by Night Watch,” Watts wrote.

“Freshmen can park on Main Campus on Friday night and return cars to Scott Park on Sunday evening, or the evening before the start of school when it concerns a break or holiday.”

Sound confusing?

There’s an app for that.

You can download what’s called “TransLoc Rider” or point your browser to utoledo.transloc.com and track your bus on its route, so you can plan your schedule.

Those who don’t own

a smart device can find locator kiosks outside popular stops. Route schedules are available on the transit service page.

“Freshmen can park on Main Campus on Friday night and return cars to Scott Park on Sunday evening, or the evening before the start of school when it concerns a break or holiday.”

DIANA WATTS Transit Program Director

COURTESY OF UTOLEDO

Summer 2017 | The Independent Collegian | 23

Welcome to Rocket Nation from University Housing and the OďŹƒce of Residence Life!

Residence Student Association RSA acts as a voice and advocate for students living on campus, while providing opportunities for involvement and leadership through the Hall Council is hosted by each residence hall. @toledoreslife toledoreslife reslife@utoledo.edu residencelife.utoledo.edu

24 | The Independent Collegian | Summer 2017