Volume 27 Issue 15 by Island Waves

TEXAS TEXASA&M A&MUNIVERSITY–CORPUS UNIVERSITY–CORPUS CHRISTI CHRISTI

| ISLANDWAVESNEWS.COM ISLANDWAVESNEWS.COM || VOLUME VOLUME26 27ISSUE ISSUE20 15 || 08.27.15 05.05.16 |

JOURNEY OF A LIFETIME

see GRADUATE ISSUE inside

Islanders sweep Southland Conference Titles

Women’s Tennis awaits NCAA Tournament seeding, locations by JONATHAN FORNEY staff writer

resh off their Southland Conference Tournament championship, the Islander women’s tennis team begins preparing for the NCAA tournament as they look to keep their record-breaking season going. This year’s conference championship marks the second in three years for the team, and they did it in impressive fashion with a 24-0 record to be exact. Their record was not only the best in the school’s history for any sport, but they were also the only team in the country to finish with an undefeated record. Director of Tennis, Steve Moore, has assembled a roster loaded with talent and together they were able to achieve some truly great feats. “I just want to hug every one of our girls for how hard they fought,” Moore said. “24-0 is not an easy thing to accomplish.” In addition to the team honors, the individual players earned accolades and awards of their own. Sophomore Jelena Dzinic earned a spot on first team all-conference with a record of 15-1 and 10-0 in conference play.

Sophomore Hortense Boscher won the Newcomer of the Year in her first season on the island. Boscher also made the second team all-conference. With an overall record of 11-3 and 7-2 in conference, Boscher certainly made her presence felt in the Southland. Boscher also made first team in doubles with her partner, freshman Alexandra Belle. “I’m so happy. We worked so hard all year and we talked about this all year,” Boscher said. “I just tried to stay focused and not think about the result. It was tough to do that, but in the end we won and I’m really happy.” Not to be outdone by underclassmen, the seniors of the team earned recognition from the conference, as well as placing their names in the Islander record books for victories. Senior Celia Rodriguez was named to second team all-conference for the fourth consecutive time. Rodriguez’s record of 20-1 helped propel her into the school’s all-time leader for singles wins at 69. The team’s other senior, Maider Martin also made second team allconference, her third time accomplishing this feat. Martin is currently third in all-time singles victories with

photo by JAMIE FINK

Hortense Boscher, Southland Newcomer of the Year, capped off a perfect season for the Islanders during the Southland Conference Tournament.

60 after her 17 victory season. The duo of Martin and Rodriguez also earned second team all-conference recognition in doubles. “What a season. It was just incredible. I’m so proud of everybody. This team is amazing,” Martin said. “Every girl fights like crazy. To finish our last season undefeated, the feeling is just amazing.”

INDEX OPINION 2 | GRADUATION 3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12,13,14, | ENTERTAINMENT 15 | SPORTS 16

The third Spaniard upperclassmen of the team, junior Judit Vives, also earned an honorable mention from the conference with a record of 17-2 and 9-2 in conference play. With a record of 24-0, there was little doubt who would come away with the Coach of the Year award this season. see TENNIS on page 15

opinion

05.05.2016

ISLAND WAVES

How to land your ideal job after college Do not stand out for all the wrong reasons Standing out from the crowd is a great aspect when job hunting and competing against others for the “perfect one.” However, you need to make sure you are standing out for the right reasons. You want to stand out in a way so as to portray yourself as a professional and knowledgeable person. By asking yourself whether your standout ideas are going to prove whether or not you would be a valuable asset to the company, you can prove to them how you will go above and beyond for the company if given the job. 4 Be mindful of what you post Your social media accounts are an extension of your resume, so it would be in your best interest if you did not post crazy party pictures. It is known how potential employers check your social media profiles including Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn, so try to look professional. How you present yourself online should be identical to how you present yourself in person. This does not just stop after the application process. Once you get the job you are a representation of the companies brand. Uphold the company’s brand and maybe one day you could be promoted. 5 Do not focus primarily on money When trying to find a job, the biggest downfall for newly graduated students is they try to find the job with the best pay. While pay is important for supporting oneself, it should not be the first thing people 3

by KACI ALVAREZ staff writer

exas A&M University-Corpus Christi seniors are coming to the crucial and scary point in their life when they are done with school and are booted out into the real world. While there are many options and paths a graduate can take, one of the most common is to start working toward their desired career. Now starting ones career can be scary, but whether or not one chooses to strive for the desired career right away, knowing the following tips to get ones dream job is an essential component. Here are some ways to land that dream job. 1 Connect with different people According to Forbes Magazine, most of the best jobs are already filled before companies even think about posting it online. By putting oneself out there, they are able to meet and become friends with people who work for a company or field they are interested in. Enjoy learning about them and supporting them. Who knows, you might end up being the first one they call about an open position. Networking opens many doors and can be your best friend. 2 Be more positive By having a positive mindset, one’s path toward success does not have to be as bumpy. Instead of being negative with phrases starting with “I can’t”, ask yourself “how can I achieve this goal?” Figure out your overall goal, in this case a dream job, and create actions and plans in order for you to reach the desired goal. These plans can focus your energy toward success instead of staying in a rut and not knowing what to do.

look for. Instead look for a job where you would be happy and remember entry-level jobs are great. They might not have the best pay, but they will allow you to get your foot in the door, which can lead to better pay and a better experience. Job searches are no fun, but if you use these tips to guide you, it will seem painless and benefit you when striving to land your dream job.

Dream Job

JAMIE FINK

Editor-in-chief Web Editor STUDENT PUBLICATION OF TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY-CORPUS CHRISTI TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY–CORPUS CHRISTI | ISLANDWAVESNEWS.COM | VOLUME 26 ISSUE 20 | 08.27.15

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ABOUT ISLAND WAVES

The Island Waves is a student-produced publication at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi. The newspaper is printed weekly, except during summer sessions. Any student or University employee may submit material for publication consideration. To become a contributor, e-mail or call the Island Waves editor.

Izzy Sneed

WENDY MOORE

Faculty Adviser

ALEICHIA WILLIAMS Features reporter

GERI LEMMONS

KACI ALVAREZ KELSEY FLORES Features reporter ABBEY WEAVER Photographer/cartoonist IZZY SNEED Sports reporter Copy Editor

Layout assistant MIKAYLA GONZALEZ News reporter JONATHAN FORNEY Layout assistant KARA HERRERA Entertainment reporter Distribution Manager

KELSEY LARGENT

SLOANE ZAPATA

Advertising Assistant

KELE ISIBOR

Congratulates Islander Graduates

Photo courtesy of JO VALARIE GONZALEZ

Photos courtesy of TAMUCC Flickr

2016

graduation

05.05.2016

ISLAND WAVES

GRADUATION - ALL GROWN UP

Izzy Sneed

Island Waves thank you letter to graduates by GERI LEMMONS staff writer

With this year coming to a close for students most are thinking about summer and future vacations, but others are thinking about leaving Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi for good and moving on to bigger and better things. This is a letter to thank those students who have had a long road and decided to come to this campus and share their experiences with us and take part in making this school their home. Thank you graduates for making Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi your school of choice and working so hard to get to where you are today. With all of your hard work and persistence you have been such a big influence on those who follow in your footsteps. With all of you being here you have shown how

one can accomplish big things as long as they do not give up. Thank you for staying up long hours, studying for tests and helping others in need. For without you soon-to-be graduates there would be many students who would be lost when it comes to certain assignments or just plain lost when it comes to which building to go to for certain classes. For those soon to graduate we thank you for your patience and understanding when it comes to those who might not have as much knowledge about school or life as you do. While others are worried about finding a summer job, the graduates are moving on to bigger things in life and are moving on to a whole new chapter of adulthood. Thank you for sharing in your experiences with us and carrying on the name of the school wherever you go. Thank you to those who joined

would like to thank the Digital Journalism Editing and Layout class for providing the design and content for the Graduate Section.

sports, organizations, fraternities, sorties, on campus jobs and off campus jobs. You graduates have shown us how a person can balance school with having a life outside of the classroom. Thank you for showing the rest of us how to make the school a better place by just joining an organization you are passionate about. Thank you for being leaders and people to look up to while you were here. Graduation is a time for celebration and a chance to say you did it and you have accomplished something huge because of your hard work. It is a chance to look back and see how much you have grown since freshman year. While some of you might have not started your journey at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi, you have definitely become a part of the family since you called this place home and decided to graduate

MARICRUZ ALVARADO-PEREZ JESSICA ALVES BETHANY FRANKLAND JO VALARIE GONZALEZ

from the Island University. With some of you going to graduate school and others deciding to leave the school and move on, we want to thank you for being here and sharing in the Islander experience with all of us and giving your all to this school. While you stayed up and studied for hours, stressed out about tests and group projects, you were working toward a bigger goal and now all the hard work is going to be rewarded. This is not the end, this is the beginning to all of the great things you are set to accomplish in the future. We want to thank you for putting all of your blood, sweat and tears in to this school and your never giving up attitude. After all is said and done we just wanted to say thank you graduates for making Texas A&M UniversityCorpus Christi the place you want to be.

JUSTINE GREEN ADRIANA GUTIERREZ ALEXA SCHAEFER ANNA SELLERS

WENDY MOORE

Faculty for course

graduation

05.05.16

ISLAND WAVES

, Austria

Innsbruck

Christm

as Mark ets in W orms, G Photos c ermany ourtesy of STEPH ANIE RIS HELL

Crete, Gree

Communication senior takes road less travelled by BETHANY FRANKLAND contributing writer

hoosing to take the road less travelled is not always the easiest. It does not come without a certain amount of sacrifice. Yet for some, the desire for a life less than ordinary is the one thing that drives a passion for the unknown. Stephanie Rishell, a senior graduating with a degree in Communication, class of May 2016 at the Island University, is doing just that. Rishell plans to follow her passion for travel and discover the world, in an effort to go against the grain of pursuing a career. She plans to move to California after graduation, then leave for a month to work with Global Volunteer Network in Thailand. “While in Thailand I will be working with an elephant project and living in a poor Thai village ,immersing myself in their culture,” Rishell said. She then plans to travel to Europe and continue traveling for the next few years. While studying abroad in Germany last year Rishell met her boyfriend Simon Quillman. He also shares her passion for travel.

The couple is looking forward to exploring the world together and the excitement to see where their future leads. So how did these two meet, inquiring minds may ask? “Last semester, when I heard about the opportunity to become a buddy for the international students, I thought this might be a good opportunity to meet people from all over the world and maybe learn about other cultures or even become friends with some and visit one of them one day,” Quillman said. “[Rishell] has been to so many places and experienced so many amazing things which definitely made me speechless. So I did not really find many friends that I keep in touch with but I definitely found someone that I really care about and who fascinates me again and again.” Quillman said now he has someone he can rely on and share his passion to see the world and experience new things. “I think I should seize this opportunity and just do it,” he said. Quillman said he is blessed to have the chance to go to so many these places and he would be stupid if he did not take the chance. “I always wanted to experience

more but I did not really have the opportunities to do so. I am from a small village in Germany so there was never much going on,” he said. “In regards to my semester in California, I am definitely most looking forward to really immersing into the American culture, becoming independent, and of course get better with the language,” Quillman said. Traveling may not be for everyone and to some it may seem unattainable. “I constantly stress the importance of traveling,” Rishell said. “This world is way too big not to explore it and you learn so much when doing so. I set big dreams and did whatever I could to make them happen. A lot of people use money as an excuse on why they can’t travel. I believe if someone really wants something they can figure out a way.” During her time at the Island University, Rishell studied abroad in Scotland and Germany, and thinks the Island University has a very beautiful campus. “I love that we are still a big university and growing but small enough that each student is not just a number,” Rishell said. “I’ve been

blessed with such supportive faculty who have believed in me.” Rishell said anyone can follow in her path. “I’m just glad that I never let money limit me from traveling,” she said. “I used school as a tool to help me live in a country longer and highly recommend students to study abroad. I had to figure out a lot of obstacles to actually make these trips work out, but once I set my mind to something I want, I will try to do whatever I can to make it happen.” Rishell hopes to inspire others with her passion for following her dreams and has had nothing but good reactions from her family and anyone that she talks to about her plans. She also hopes to make people more openminded. Although she has a passion for travel, she does admit to missing her family and that is the hardest part about her future plans. “Americans are so blessed with the country we live in and during my traveling I have seen a lot. I am constantly applying what I have learned when I travel,” Rishell said. “All I know is that I am very passionate about learning and integrating into different cultures and plan on doing it for the rest of my life.”

graduation

05.05.2016

ISLAND WAVES

Biomedical senior sets sight on vet school by ADRIANA GUTIERREZ contributing writer

mina Karedia says being a student at Texas A&M University- Corpus Christi has been a great experience. It not only has sparked her continuous interest in animals but has helped her make the decision of not only studying animals but helping them out too. “After a few classes and some soul searching, I found that my real passion was for helping animals, rather than just studying them,” Karedia said. With a high GPA, Karedia has taken challenging courses in biomedical science that have broadened her horizons, which has helped her decide to extend her education to veterinary medicine. “Her attitude and passion for these animals really shows through her hard work,” said Jennifer Lopez, lead assistant for Karedia at her job. “She is very dedicated to not just her job but to learning every aspect of this field. Amina goes above and beyond any student volunteer I’ve ever seen.” After graduation Karedia plans to continue her education at Texas A&M University-College Station to take post-baccalaureate classes before applying to vet school. During that time, she will be gaining experience and knowledge in both a clinic and laboratory setting. “People usually ask me why I wouldn’t just rather be a medical

doctor and help people,” Karedia said. “I usually respond with the fact that I am helping both, I get to keep animals healthy and their owners happy.” With graduation right around the corner, a lot has come into perspective for Amina. She says 10 years from now she sees herself as a practicing veterinarian at an institution that provides care to exotic animals, as well as domestic companion animals. She would also like to use her status in the community to inform people on proper animal care and raise awareness about issues, like wildlife conservation, pet overpopulation, and zoonotic diseases. Her advice to anyone wanting to go for veterinarian medicine is to take initiative early and start gaining experience at any local veterinarian office or animal related projects in the community. “Vet school is very competitive, so make every effort to partake in activities that will make you stand out,” she said. Karedia has enjoyed her four years at the Island University and will have a tough time leaving. She said she is grateful for her time at the school and to have gotten her core education at such a great school. “The Island University has been like home to me since day one, and I don’t know how I’m ever going to say goodbye,” Karedia said.

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Amina Karedia volunteers at Glen Oaks Theraputic Riding Center in Corpus Christi, Texas.

graduation

05.05.2016

Graduate says best is yet to come

ISLAND WAVES

by ALEXA SCHAEFER contributing writer

manda Macias finishes a long day at school and reports to the Texas Sealife Center to care for the wildlife and rehab. She attends the Island University and is about to graduate with her bachelors in animal biology. Though her time at the Texas Sealife Center will be over soon, and she does not have a job lined up right after graduation, she has a plan. After graduation, Macias is looking to apply to the Texas State Aquarium to gain more experience in animal husbandry. However, she intends to continue volunteering at the Texas Sealife Center. Macias said her time at the Texas Sealife Center allows her to get hands-on experience dealing with wildlife. The directors there are also really great contacts to have. After a year or so, Macias said she will more than likely go back to school to get a masters in wildlife conservation. Besides her studies, Macias is involved with activities and organizations on campus. She has been actively involved in Islander Catholic, Tri-Beta and The National Society of Leadership and Success. On March 4-6, Islander Catholic hosted their first Islander Awakening. Macias was head coordinator for the weekend-long Christian retreat. Ian Pugh, assistant coordinator for the awakening retreat. He met Macias through Islander

Amanda Macias takes a selfie with an elephant during a trip to Thailand.

Catholic. “She was one of the first people I met here that really opened up and brought me in to our community,” Pugh said. “Amanda was the best person to coordinate Islander Awakening because she had the drive to help and work for this community.”

Macias said there isn’t really one specific person who has influenced her the most. Friends, professors and her parents have helped her see her own potential in life. Macias said all of them have given her the strength to be confident and to fight for what she truly

photos courtesy of AMANDA MACIAS

wants. Macias saidshe has changed since her freshman year. “I have grown in maturity, confidence and how I view the world,” she said. “I’ve attended a national conference, The American Societ of Microbiology. I’ve spent a month in Thailand participating in elephant conservation, and I’ve found what makes me happy in terms of my career choice.” Her advice to incoming freshman would be to gain experience in their field of interest and to really put themselves out there. There are so many options open, but you have to put the effort to find them. Where does Macias see herself in 5 years? “I see myself finishing grad school and working towards obtaining a job of my dreams, working at an animal refuge,” she said. “I hope that I will be able to make a small difference in terms of conservation for endangered animals as well as the environment.”

graduation

05.05.2016

Congrats on graduating, now what?

ISLAND WAVES

by JO VALARIE GONZALEZ contributing writer

raduation is right around the corner. In a few months it will be time to start looking for open positions. According to Business and Professional speaking, “A good rule of thumb is for graduates to allow between three and six months to find that first job after graduation.” A good search includes utilizing Career Services here at TAMUCC, job fairs, employment agencies and professional associations. Look online and ask around. Once some potential options have been chosen, research the positions and the company. This will save time by assisting with organization and helps you to tailor your resume appropriately. “When applying, customize your resume based on the position’s needs,” said Lori Frank, human resources assistant at the USS Lexington Museum. “This can include matching your education, previous employment, skills, awards, and even hobbies; as long as the information is

relevant, to the job.” Once an interview is set, ensure proper preparation by reviewing the job posting’s qualifications, making a list that highlight your qualifications. Practice interview questions. Interviews are conducted in various styles. Enlist help to assist in practicing mock interviews via phone, Skype, one-on-one or a panel. “There are two types of questions to anticipate in an interview: behavioral and traditional,” said Patti Gonzales, human resources and hiring manager for the USS Lexington Museum. “Behavioral questions will include how you have handled situations in the past, while traditional questions focus on why you applied for the job, strengths, weaknesses and former public opinion of you.” Further, the best way to answer behavioral questions is by using a three-part formula. “First, answer the question, then give an example with a real-world experience, and finally, relate it back to the hiring company,” Gonzales said. Arrive to the interview at

least 10 minutes early and maintain professionalism with everyone. Monitor nonverbal communication. Be a good listener by listening to the questions and answering them thoroughly. This is where practicing interview questions comes in handy. First impressions are hard to change. Come to the interview looking professional. According to “Business and Professional speaking, “For men, that means jacket and pants. Men are encouraged to wear a silk, conservative tie, polished black dress shoes and over-the-calf dress socks that correspond to the suit. Jewelry should be limited to one simple watch and one ring. For women, it includes a jacket and a skirt. Suits should be black, dark gray or blue, coupled with a light colored shirt.” Women are encouraged not to wear more than five pieces of simple-styled jewelry: a watch, pair of earrings (with all other piercings removed), necklace and one ring. Both men and women should carry a matching professional bag to hold resume

copies, references’ contact information, work samples, and breath freshener. Both men and women should have clean nails and hair. Don’t bring up salary expectations, make sure you have researched the appropriate pay for the position you are seeking, in the event the question is presented to you. When researching, pay attention to salary variations such as credentials, experience and location. As the interview ends, thank the interviewer, and follow up with a thank you card. Immediately submit any additional information that was requested.

Horray! A job has been offered. Now is the time for clarification on salary and benefits. You may have to use this time to negotiate or request a higher salary. Make sure your requests are reasonable to your experience and the market for your position. After salary negotiations are complete, and both sides are in agreement, its time to accept your first professional career after college.

How to properly dress for an interview Long hair pulled back

No facial hair Minimal Jewelry

Neutral Makeup

No Piercings

Silk tie

No purse

Dark Skirt Suit paired with light blouse

Flat, dark, closed toe shoes

No cell phone

Dark Suit paired with light colored shirt

Covered tattoos Dress shoes

info graphic by JO VALARIA GONZALEZ

graduation

05.05.2016

ISLAND WAVES

Career Services can help with post-grad jobs by MARICRUZ ALVARADO contributing writer

The 2016 Spring Graduation Commencement is just around the corner. There are two types of seniors… the ones who have begun looking for jobs and know exactly what they want to do upon graduation, and then there are seniors who have yet decided how to start planning for their future beyond walking the stage. Salinas, a senior career counselor from Career Services on campus, gave some great tips and informed me on how Career services can be of service to help graduating Seniors feel confident in finding a career. 1) Register with Hire an Islander and schedule a mock interview with Career Services. 2) Do career-related internships. 3) Join student organizations related to your major. It will look good on your résumé. 4) Attend Career services workshops that are once a month. “You can get some practical information about résumé building or interviewing,” Salinas said. 5) Go to Business Etiquette Dinners or Get the Job Fashion Shows, which are hosted by Career Services. Utilize Career Service’s new suit

photo by IZZY SNEED

Senior psychology major Apefa Pedanoy (left) tells Nancy Salinas how her recent interview went. Pedanoy is wearing a suit from Izzy’s Interview Closet.

lending program. “We also now just started our lending suit closet,” Salinas said. “That way students can go and do an interview.” 6) Attend Job fairs. 7) Apply to graduate school. 8) Actively search for the job you want.

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9) Have a well written résumé and cover letter. “Be very descriptive, you’re selling yourself,” Salinas said. “It’s a selfie, this is the first thing that [employers] read.” 10) Inform Career Services when you’ve been hired or been accepted into graduate school.

All these tips and more can be found inside the Career Guide packet that can either be accessed online at career-services.tamucc. edu or in the career services office. Pick one up and make an appointment with Career Services today.

graduation

05.05.2016

ISLAND WAVES

Post-Grad how to:

Submit good first impression with resume help or seek guidance,” Kunau said. “I am in my office eager for an employee to ask me for alk the aisle, take pictures, party it up my advice. If I can help in the beginning with with family and friends while being landing an interview, then I will try my best to showered with gifts and money. All of this is get them where they need to be, but the rest is wonderful on graduation day, but how long is up to them.” that money going to last after that celebration? Check with a college campus to see where the The happiness may end and the next stage of life career services is located for more information is supposed to begin: finding a career. and tips on how to build the resume to land According to a survey done by AfterCollege. the job. Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi com, only 83 percent of graduating seniors said career services can be contacted by email, career. they didn’t have a job lined up as of April 2014, services@tamucc.edu or phone, 361-825-2628. despite 72.7 percent reporting they were actively They are located in the UC room 304. looking for one. But just how simple is it for someone to land that job if those math, science and philosophy classes didn’t teach anyone how to land the job? Jim Kunau, General Manager at Hurricane Alley Waterpark in Corpus Christi, said he believes resumes are crucial to land an interview. “The employer looks at your history to see experiences most fresh graduates lack,” Kunau said. “They forget they are encouraged to add in extracurricular classes that gave them experience outside of the usual core book learning.” Mike Glymph, a recent graduate from Texas A&M University- Corpus Christi agrees with Kunau. “I put on my resume my Capstone course on how we marketed a self-own business to help enhance their publicity and social media to bring in more customers,” Glymph said. “This helped me land a job at the Veteran Evaluation Service recruiting doctors for Veteran Services.” How did Glymph figure out something as simple as learning to put courses in his resume? Glymph said he visited Career Services offered on campus and they help build up his resume by grilling him with questions on experiences. “It takes a few seconds to do research on how to improve your resume, ask mentors for

by JUSTINE GREEN contributing writer

CAREER CORNER

Izzy’s Interview Closet brings professional wear to students

by RACHEL WILLIAMS internship coordinator

“I have. Nothing. TO. WEAR!” This phrase may sound familiar, as most of us have uttered it once or twice. Oftentimes, this dilemma can be solved by simply doing a load or two of laundry. But if your wardrobe consists of only holey jeans and pajama pants, it could become a real issue when you’re ready to suit up for an interview. Before the interview, you’ve

checked all the boxes for preparation. You’ve studied the job description, practiced interviewing with your dog, and you’re confident as you open up the tall glass doors. As you step into the interview room, all eyes gaze at you. Studies show that first impressions are created within the first 30 seconds of meeting someone, and that over half of what’s being expressed about you comes from your appearance and tone. Employers who are focused on hiring individuals with good judgement, integrity and a high-

level of professionalism will be looking for the evidence in what you choose to wear. Pay close attention to how your attire is representing what you have to offer as a potential employee. The big, heavy price tag that’s tacked onto those snazzy looking suits can put a damper on your dress choices, however. Career Services understands that dropping $150 on a suit can be extremely burdensome, and have developed a new service to meet the needs of TAMUCC’s students entering the workforce. Fondly named Izzy’s Interview Closet,

this service allows students to “rent” men’s or women’s blazers, slacks and skirt sets. We’ve stocked a variety of sizes, and you can borrow these interview-ready outfits for up to seven days, at the minimal cost of $5. All suits must be dry cleaned before returning, which means you’ll be wearing a clean, pressed ensemble. If you’re ready to prove you’re the best candidate for the job, Career Services can help you dress like it. To start utilizing this incredible service, make an appointment with Career Services by calling 361-825-2628, or stop by UC 304.

graduation

05.05.2016

ISLAND WAVES

photo illustration by JESSICA AVES

An employee at the Corpus Christi Literacy Council looks at a book in a foreign language.

Bigger picture: graduates are fortunate by JESSICA AVES contributing writer

raduates can be feeling many emotions right now. One of the more prominent ones may be worry about what they will do next. Graduate school? A job? There can be dread at being asked what their plans after graduation are. Graduates may want to take a moment from all of these emotions to be proud of their achievement, and think of how they are fortunate. According to the Texas Center for the Advancement of Literacy and Learning, as of 2009, 17 percent of adults in Nueces County are

illiterate. That is almost two out of 10 people in this county. The state average is 19 percent. Nueces County is more literate but not by much. Some of the individuals in Nueces County are fluent in speaking English. Others struggle with both reading and writing English, like Josie and Hassan. They are tutored at the Corpus Christi Literacy Council. Josie is from Mexico. Her lack of fluency in English is an obstacle for her. “I would like to study my GED in the United States, because I studied

high school in Mexico,” Josie said. “To get better work, I don’t working right now. But I would like to work. And I would like to speak it very well. More and more in English.” Hassan has a different story. “I’m Egyptian. In Egypt, I’m police officer,” Hassan said. His fluency makes it difficult to continue that work here. “I hope police officer. This my work. I am happy to protect my people,” Hassan said. “But I ask someone –tell me I can’t work as police officer. Because I’m not citizen. Because my accent.” Both Hassan and Josie have

obstacles to overcome. They each need to become more fluent in English. This will help them toward their employment goals. People who have been fluent in English since childhood may not give much thought to the advantage that gives them. In America it is a crucial step toward basic education requirements. Education requirements, like a high school diploma or a bachelors’ degree, are crucial for most jobs here. TAMUCC graduates may want to reflect on what they have achieved through circumstance and effort as they look toward their futures.

Kinesiology major, SGA officer prepares for graduation by ORLANDO NARVAEZ contributing writer

Gilson said. With graduation just two weeks enior Kinesiology student away, Gilson is trying to get through Andrea Gilson, is getting ready finals and finish the semester off to graduate Saturday May 14 at the right. She started out as a nursing American Bank Center as part of major. However, after she helped her the class of 2016. She is also vice cousin, who was born with cerebral president of Student Government palsy, with physical therapy, she Association and has helped to create decided to become a kinesiology a lasting impression. major. "Attending this school for the past Senior Francisco Gallegos, four years have been an amazing fellow member of the SGA and experience and I am excited to friend to Gilson, said Gilson is a see what’s the next chapter in life," great inspiration and role model.

He believes Gilson will be very successful in the future. “I think that definitely her involvement on campus it’s just crazy,” Gallegos said. “I don’t think I know anyone who is as involved on this campus as much as she is. I believe she is the hardest working person I know.” Gallegos said Gilson is part of many organizations including SGA, Islander Cultural Alliance and she is president of a kinesiology organization. She is very involved

and somehow still able to attend to her studies. “I just hope I am able to take away Andrea’s dedication and apply it to my school and organizations," Gallegos said. Gilson had some advice for current and incoming students. “I would recommend that they would make sure to talk to their professors and don’t be scared to talk them because they are the ones who will most likely to help you when you need it most,” Gilson said.

graduation

05.05.2016

From Lockout to Islander Graduate

ISLAND WAVES

E-Line nursing student succeeds despite job adversity

linton Buttler worked for 19 years on the emergency response team at Sherwin Alumina before he and 450 other workers were locked out of the company in 2014 amid contractual negotiations. That was when Buttler made the decision to pursue an E-Line Nursing degree at the Island University. “I lived in 2 worlds,” Buttler said, “One where this company after 19 years of service, kicked us out, [and] wouldn’t negotiate with us, then I come [to the Island University] and these people are cheering me on and supporting me. It’s strikingly obvious that I’ve made the right decision.” Buttler has thrived within the online nursing program while also volunteering weekly in the Intensive Care Unit of a local hospital. He was appointed one of the program’s first Student Representatives. Through the position, he serves as a voice for his fellow online students based in Texas, as well as many other states, Buttler said. “It was nice for me to be a student representative with my

understanding of the evolution of online learning” said Buttler, who had previously studied at Del Mar College online before transferring to the Island University. Buttler recieved the phone call asking him to be the E-Line student representative while helping fellow locked-out Sherwin Alumina workers register for unemployment in a hotel lobby. “I’ll never forget that experience,” Buttler said of the collision of these 2 worlds.“It was pretty cool.” Dr. Katelijne Acker, professor of Nursing and Health Sciences at the Island University, nominated Buttler for the position. “The way [Buttler] presented himself, the way he was a leader among his peers already in his class, and then his maturity made him a great choice for Student Representative” Acker said. In his time as Student Representative, Buttler has fought to have the transition simulations lab, a lifelike clinical lab for nursing students in their last semester, open

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to online students who are locally based. After the life transitions Buttler has seen, his advice for incoming freshmen is to take classes to figure out interests and enjoy the experience

of college. “You’re meeting people from different places, with different experiences and you just naturally figure out what you want to do,” he said.

entertainment

05.05.2016

Senior art student puts on final show

ISLAND WAVES

by JONATHAN FORNEY staff writer

eginning Saturday, April 30, students will have the opportunity to see “Hang 10,” the senior show of 10 graduating fine arts students from Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi. Spanning a variety of mediums and themes, the show will run until May 6 during the art walk. The artists contributing to the show have been working all year to put together the show and have grown together as artists throughout the journey. Gracie Peck is a self-taught glass caster. Peck has created pieces inspired by her ties to the Island University, including scuba masks and flippers, but she also has other pieces going into the show. “I know each and every one of them,” Peck said. “We’ve all been a team throughout all the critiques and everything.” All the artists involved in the show are Stephanie Alaniz, Joshua Countryman, Kaleigh Glover, Bridgett Leblanc, Annmarie Miller, Rheanne Pearce, Gracie Peck, Perri Podenak, Evija Rucevska and Barbara Lane Tharas. Each artist brings something unique to the show. From the medium they work with to their individual inspirations. Each

piece has a story, which led to its creation. The show will feature works of sculpture, ceramics, paintings, watercolor, paper casting and glass casting. Countryman’s, a former armed forces member turned sculptor. Countryman uses his unique previous experiences to inspire his work. They have all worked really hard to get to this point and the culmination of their efforts is almost here. “I’m stressed out and exhausted. However, I am looking forward to the show being successful and over,” Countryman said. Countryman’s pieces will be separated from the others in the show, but he prefers it that way. “Josh likes to be included, but secluded, if that makes sense. But we’re glad to have him in the show,” Peck said. Other artists bring their own skills and experiences to the show. Another interesting contributor is Annmaries Miller. Miller creates paper castings of her hands as well as the hands of those close to her, such as family members. Miller feels confident in her finished products. “It’s exciting and nerve-wracking, as our entire college careers have been culminating up to this show, but I’m more than ready to put my sculptures up for the community to see,” Miller said.

TENNIS continued from page 1

This year’s award marks the tenth consecutive Coach of the Year award for Moore, but this was his first as the women’s coach. Moore had previously won the past nine seasons as the men’s coach. The 10 total awards is an accomplishment that only Moore can claim. In the Southland, regardless of sport, no coach has garnered 10 awards so it is truly an historic achievement. “We had a great culture this year and our staff poured their heart and soul into these kids every day,” Moore

said. “The character of these girls is something I will never forget for the rest of my life.” The team is preparing for their NCAA first round in early May as they look to keep up the historic momentum which got them to where they are now. More often than not, historic accomplishments are not truly appreciated until after the fact, but what these ladies are doing is something special and it is a great thing to get to watch it unfold before ones very eyes.

photo by JAMIE FINK

photo by GRACIE PECK

An unfinished sculpture by Gracie Peck on display in the “Hang Ten” senior show until May 6.

As the big day nears, the artists anticipate a good showing. “I know it’s going to be a great show. We have some great artists exhibiting with us. I know that the show is going to be fabulous and a fun event for all those who attend,” Perri Podenak, one of the artists said.

The show will be on display at C.C. Gears from April 30-May 6. Opening night will be from 6-8 on the April 30 and all are encouraged to come out and support these Islander artists in their final show as seniors.

MAY

Strutter & Thunderstruck

U P C O M I N G E V E N T S

MAY

29 JUN

KISS & AC/DC TRIBUTE BANDS

Rich O’Toole & Steven James Live CD recording!

Second Saturday

Sing-Along Piano Show

Rotel & The Hot Tomatoes

Bash at the Beach

with Josh Abbott Band, Pat Green, Stoney LaRue, and more!

WEEZER

& PANIC! AT THE DISCO

JUN

IN THIS MOMENT

JUL

Slightly�Stoopid

27 16 AUG

AUG

with HellYeah, Shaman’s Harvest, and Sunflower Dead

w/ SOJA & Z-G-E

SUBLIME WITH ROME w/ Dirty Heads, Tribal Seeds, and Bleeker

Summerland 2016

with Sugar ray, everclear, lit, & Sponge

sports

05.05.2016

One, two, three strikes you’re out ISLAND WAVES

by MIKAYLA OELSCHLEGEL staff writer

n the third game of first four game series of the season the Corpus Christi Hooks battled the Frisco RoughRiders on the diamond on April 23. While the first inning showed the Riders getting an upper hand with two runs off the bat, one homer, the Hooks came back with Teoscar Hernandez scoring the first run for the Hooks. From then on the Hooks were set to play a good defense. Even though the second inning showed the Hooks holding down the fort, getting their first strikeout and the outfielders showing some great catches, it was in the third inning where they tied up the game. Derek Fisher, outfielder, hit the first home run for the Hooks to tie up the score. The Hooks did bring in one run in the fifth inning to put them on top. The rest of the game followed the no-hit pattern with the Riders attempting to get runs but the Hooks defense shutting them down with double plays and great strikeouts. After losing to Frisco the past two games, 2-5 and 3-9, it was safe to say that the Hooks felt a relief when it

came to topping the scoreboard 3-2 for this game. “[Winning was] Amazing. Definitely a lot better than losing. It’s just great. It’s baseball, everyday is a new day regardless of winning or losing but it’s always good to win,” first baseman, Conrad Gregor said. “The food tastes better, we play music in the clubhouse after games, you just enjoy it.” And while the Hooks played great defense, both Gregor and Fisher had to give credit when it came to the low scoring game. “Really got to give credit to the pitchers tonight, it was a totally different game than the past two games and they really iced them,” Gregor said. “Frisco really battled, after that first home-run in the first by Corrdell, that was really all they got, it was pretty much lights out from there. They did a great job today.” “Good pitching, our pitchers did well,” Fisher said. We really got to take what they’ve given us and put our bats together and see how it works out.” And while the fourth and final game in the series had to be postponed because of rain, Fisher is positive when they do face off again,

Derek Fisher slams the first homerun of the game for the Hooks.

the Hooks will give them another battle. “I mean its the same game every day, it’s the glory of baseball. I get to play everyday. Build off what we did today,” Fisher said. “Nothing is going to be handed to us so play as

photo by IZZY SNEED

if we did today and if it works out that’s good.” If any one wants to see the official game schedule or is interested in purchasing tickets, head over to http://www.milb.com/tickets/tickets.