Pursuit | Spring 2013

issue 2 | volume 3 | Spring 2013

day in the life of a commuter

students hit the road battle traffic to earn degrees page 14

confessions of a female engineerING STUDENT

behind-the-scenes look at being a woman in a male--dominated major page 44

Liberation of the thigh cbu men say goodbye

to jeans, hello to chubbies page 21

a california baptist university publication

PURSUIT | 1

20 issue 2 | volume 3 | Spring 2013

HEALTH

EDITOR’s NOTE

04 05 06 08 09

By CRISTIN MASSEY

Change is nothing new to the human experience. It happens whether we like it or not.

After we graduate from the safe world of college and move out into the unknown, a great world awaits. The world is there for us to participate in, experience and create new life.

As spring draws nearer, students may want to spread their wings and do some traveling during spring break. With commencement nearing, others may be planning to take a celebratory vacation abroad to explore history.

For the students who are just starting out, change can be seen through various declarations of majors as they decide and search for the right path in life — it may take one or a dozen major changes to decide. The new freshman may still be adjusting to the change of living away from home and figuring out a healthy schedule.

Sometimes change occurs when tradition is tested and new social norms and standards are accepted. Whether this is by giving up antiquated notions of seeking permission before dating and marriage, or even by getting married before your career takes off, all are a change that you should explore to learn if it is right for you.

Exploration of life never ends, that is one thing that will not change and we can always look to as a comforting constant. Embracing uncertainty and being the pioneer of your own life is what makes the journey to the destination so beautiful and worth it.

Change happens. Time moves on. The world keeps spinning.

Cover Photo by Lisette Nichols | Design by Megan Paulos

SAVE A LIFE— GET A CHECK-UP

NATURAL HEALING VS. PRESCRIBED HEALING 7 reasons why the recREATION center BEATS your gym HEALTH MYTHBUSTERS

LIFESTYLE 10 12 13 14 16 17

FASHION

10 DORM ROOM EXCERCISES

BEYOND THE CROWNS HOW TO BE MISS INDEPENDENT MAJOR CHANGES DAY IN THE LIFE OF A COMMUTER DO’S AND DON’TS OF BEING A STELLAR STUDENT GREAT DEBATE: GRAD SCHOOL

Photo (page 2) by Sarah Jane O’Keefe

18 22 24 26

LIBERATION OF THE THIGH MODERN MALE GROOMING DISCOVER YOUR STYLE CULTURE MEETS FASHION

10

12

28

RELATIONSHIPS 28 30 31

TRAVEL 34 36 38 39 40 41

CAREER TRAVELERS ACROSS AMERICA ROAD TRIP TIPS GETTING YOUR PASSPORT MORE FOR YOUR MILES

38 02 | PURSUIT

TO ASK OR NOT TO ASK

PLANNING A WEDDING AND GRADUATION CYBER BREAK-UPS

LANCER WEDDING

spotlight 42 44 45 46 47 48

SCHOOL IS: OUT FOREVER

32 33

IN PERFECT TIMING

Pursuit Staff | Spring 2013

SHOES OPTIONAL BEYOND THIS POINT CONFESSIONS OF A FEMALE ENGINEERING STUDENT BEAUTY MORE THAN SKIN DEEP GIVING BACK: MY PERSONAL GOAL 1ST GENERATION TO GRADUATE BATS

44 48

Top Row: Sharayah Le Leux, Lauren Rios, Matthew Swope, Brianna Nelson, Kira Kramer, Steven Anderson, Alex Korhely-Day Middle Row: Sam Palencia, Dayana Ramirez, Jarel Roxas, Willoughby Douglas, Sarah Jane O’Keefe, Caitlyn Fairfax, Megan Paulos, Lisette Nichols, Rebekah Wahlberg Bottom Row: Aarika Hernandez, Sandra Romo, Cristin Massey, Grace Ferrell, Michael Chute, Shantal Haboud Not Pictured: Bradlee Locke, Sarah Schopick, Lea Hernandez, Delaia Federico, Olivia Miller, Jenelle Young, Jacob Armstrong, Joshua Zubia, Jessica Bills

Cristin Massey Editor in Chief

Lauren Rios Assitant Editor

Sarah Schopick Staff Writer

Brianna Nelson Lifestyle Designer

Joshua Zubia Photographer

Grace Ferrell Managing Editor

Caitlyn Fairfax Copy Editor / Senior Writer

Lea Hernandez Staff Writer

Olivia Miller Spotlight Designer

Sandra Romo Adviser

Megan Paulos Design Editor

Sharayah Le Leux Copy Editor / Senior Writer

Matthew Swope Staff Writer

Jenelle Young Spotlight Designer

Dr. Michael Chute Director

Lisette Nichols Co-Photo Editor

Dayana Ramirez Copy Editor / Senior Writer

Kira Kramer Staff Writer

Jacob Armstrong Photographer

Sarah Jane O’Keefe Co-Photo Editor

Rebecca Wahlberg Copy Editor

Steven Anderson Travel Designer

Jessica Bills Photographer

Shantal Haboud Assitant Editor

Aarika Hernandez Senior Writer

Sam Palencia Fashion Designer

Willoughby Douglas Photographer

Alex Korhely-Day Assitant Editor

Bradlee Locke Staff Writer

Delaia Federico Assistant Design Editor Health Designer

Jarel Roxas Photographer

Photo by Bonnie Jean Koenn

Pursuit Magazine is a studentproduced campus publication of California Baptist University 8432 Magnolia Ave. Riverside, CA 92504

PURSUIT | 03

HEALTH

SAVE YOUR LIFE — GET A CHECK-UP

exercises

BY Aarika Hernandez

S

tudying for exams, practice and work are just a few things that take time and leave little room in a college student’s busy schedule to take care of their health. Many students have a malnourished wallet, but making a quick trip to the store for medicine is cheaper and less time-consuming than possibly paying north of $100 for a basic checkup.

Hannah Stipek, junior nutrition and dietetics major who is actively involved on the California Baptist University swim and dive team, learned the hard way by ignoring symptoms of illness. When she finally decided to see a doctor, one month after first experiencing symptoms, she learned her deep cough had turned into the Epstein Barr Virus.

“I didn’t have a lot of time and didn’t want to miss any swim practices,” Stipek said. “I was just waiting for it to get better, but it was taking longer than usual. So I decided something more was wrong.

When I got checked out, mono came back negative, strep came back positive, but it didn’t make much sense. I had to see a specialist.”

Limited time is not the only thing that prevents students from making a visit to the doctor.

Lack of funds may also be a major contributor. Many college students do not have insurance or have out-of-state insurance they rely on, which can get complicated and pricey.

“Sometimes the cost of a checkup or medication is higher than what the insurance covers, which leaves the student paying the difference out-of-pocket,” saysMelissa N. Christman, master of science in nursing graduate student working at CBU’s Health and Wellness Center.

Although vaccinations and office visits could end up costing, Christman notes that it could be dangerous and detrimental to a student’s health to avoid them.

“Symptoms could worsen, it is best to come in and be seen just in case symptoms elevate, which would cost more to treat than a checkup,” Christman says. “We have off-brands of medicine that we suggest that are much cheaper than the name brand.”

Most illnesses seen at the health and wellness center have simple fixes, such as getting fluids, plenty of rest, eating right and keeping stress levels down.

“Students are welcome to come in and ask a question,” Christman says. “We are always willing to answer any concern a student may have, charge-free.”

04 | PURSUIT

Photo by Lisette Nichols

{

10 dorm room

5

2

1

pushups

Joseph Kay, master of business administration student, says there are different ways of doing push-ups for achieving specific results. For example, a wider push-up works out the chest while having the arms closer together works out the triceps.

Do 2 reps of 15.

9

2

3

situps

Lie on the floor and sit up.

The upper body should rise off the floor completely. This works out the abdominal and hip-flexor muscles. Do four reps of 25.

Model: Sandi Derbyshire

4

Photos by Willoughby Douglas

squats

With feet shoulder-width apart, squat down and stand back up to starting position. When squatting, try to flex the back muscles of the calves. Do two reps of 15.

5

crunches

Lie on the floor and sit up halfway with only the shoulders coming off the floor.

Then lie back down. Kay said it works best if the feet are placed under something or if someone holds them. This move works out abdominal muscles. Do five reps of 25.

8

By Sarah schopick

6

7

8

russian twists Sit on the floor, and lean back as if in mid-sit-up. Sit up and stop mid way and turn from side to side. This works the side obliques. Add weight to make the exercises more challenging.

Do two reps of 25.

9

step-ups

Stand in front of a chair and step up on top of it. Return to starting position. This works the glutes, explains Katherine E. Smith, freshman kinesiology major. Do three reps of 10 on each leg.

calf-raises Put hands on a wall and stand on the balls of feet. Using toes, move the body up and down in repetitive motions. Go as slow or as fast as is comfortable.

Sandi J. Derbyshire, freshman pre-nursing major and volleyball player, explains that going slower burns more fat, while going faster increases endurance. Do two reps of 50.

leg-raises

Stand up and bring one knee up to your stomach so that it faces you. Do two reps of 10 on each leg.

leg-lifts

Lie down on your back. Keeping them straight, lift the legs up and down at a 90-degree angle to your body. Lift one leg or both at a time while keeping them about six inches from the floor. Do three reps of 10.

}

10

pullups

Use the bar underneath a bunk bed to do pullups, Smith said.

It works out the arms and back.

Do six to 10 reps.

PURSUIT | 05

NATURAL HEALING

By Dayana Ramirez

When I was younger, I was always prone to getting sick. When it was not pneumonia, it was bronchitis. Every time the weather changed, I got sick. It started to become typical and something I learned to accept with time.

With such a low-immune system, I had frequent visits to the doctor. However, with each visit I learned to trust doctors less and less. Without running any tests, they would ask how I felt and immediately pull out their pen and prescription pad to jot down the next prescription.

Luckily, I have a wise mother who has always taken interest in alternative, natural remedies. I never drank the prescriptions the doctor handed me, and slowly but surely I developed a stronger immune system.

Far too often, the medicine doctors prescribe have secondary effects that tend to harm other parts of the body. Poor health conditions are maintained and never fully abolished.

I grew to believe that medicine, which is created by man, is not to be taken unless absolutely necessary to prevent high blood pressure or other vital conditions. It can become addictive and have negative consequences for the body.

Instead, what God has given us in its natural form — such as medicinal plants, legumes, fruits, seeds and vegetables — are

06 | PURSUIT

sufficient to help us lead a healthy lifestyle without the need of prescription drugs.

Herbs are much healthier and reliable.

Natural remedies have known ingredients and functions that will not have the side effects of prescription medications. With prescription drugs, we never know what a small pill may contain or understand why it is that drowsiness may be a side effect.

I once read that a human being can live up to 150 years when leading a healthy lifestyle and staying active. Most people who live to see advanced years live in underdeveloped countries where medicine is not easily accessible, and have natural remedies that help them live longer and healthier lives.

So why is it that in a country where doctors are wise, easily prescribe medicine and conduct surgeries, people live shorter lives and are more prone to dying of heart attacks or other diseases? The answer is simply that they face the consequences of taking so many prescriptions that add up over time, and eventually begin harming other parts of the body that in turn, must be treated with more medicine.

It is all a vicious cycle that does not appear to be stopping anytime soon.

VS

Prescribed healing

By Bradlee locke

Anxiety runs in my family. It is the kind of anxiety that makes someone a little nervous in crowds, causes chest pains if stressed or puts their body in “fight or flight” mode randomly. I didn’t know anxiety was genetic, until I started having chest pains.

I am not the kind of person to get stressed until the very last minute. My body felt otherwise, though. When I finally decided to go to the doctor, she asked me if anxiety ran in my family.

“I mean, only two in my family have it.”

That sold it. Now I had some “disorder” that I didn’t know how to handle. Then, she suggested what I did not want to hear: pills.

Nothing like feeling like a freak who has to take pills for something like anxiety.

Some argue that modern medicine is dangerous because of possible side effects and the artificial nature of them.

Side effects can be harmful in some cases. However, this varies from case to case. In some cases, it may be more beneficial to take the drug and risk the

consequences than to not take the drug and risk even worse consequences.

Schizophrenia is a good example of this.

People with schizophrenia can take medicine that changes certain chemicals in their brains and allows them to lead functional lives. For some, the risk factors of this medicine are worth it if it can suppress their symptoms.

Since taking the pills, my chest pains have gone down significantly. The way my body reacts is something I cannot control. Sure I can take relaxation or stressmanagement classes along with working out on a daily basis. In fact, it is better to add these things onto taking pills in order to have the best all-around health that I can.

For the time, I cannot properly manage my stress. That will take time. In the mean time, I can take medicine that helps alleviate the pain and calm my body.

I am not saying prescription medicine is the end-all. Pills may not be what some people want to take. I did not want to, but sometimes it is necessary to ensure better and more manageable health.

Photos by Lisette Nichols

PURSUIT | 07

7 reasons why the recREATION center BEATS your gym

By Sarah Jane O’Keefe

1. Music

Don’t like lugging ear buds that get tangled and messy to the gym? No problem. Students can start jamming to everything from a remixed “Call Me Maybe” to “Gangnam Style” before entering the building. Speakers in the front of the building send tunes across Lancer Plaza. Music plays inside the center, too, and chances are no matter where in the gym that favorite piece of workout equipment is, there is a speaker that is nearby pumping out upbeat music to inspire a stepped-up workout at a good volume level.

2. Basketball court

Top-of-the-line flooring and multiple courts leave little to be desired in this indoor basketball haven. Lace up those high-tops and leave the courts by Mission Hall behind, because in the Recreation Center there is ample space to play a game of pick up. There is also plenty of room to watch other Lancers practice their game from the second-floor viewing area.

3. Friends

Know someone on campus? Have a roommate? Sit next to someone in class? You have 6,000 gym buddies (with schedules similar to yours) that may be available to come along for your workout.

08 | PURSUIT

4. the rock wall Enough said.

5. Classes

Zubma, Circuit Breaker, Spin class – pick your poison and enjoy. With a wide variety of classes to choose from, chances are there is something to suit your workout style as well as your course schedule.

6. Rooftop running track and soccer field Where else can you kick a ball around on the roof ? If this is not enough of a reason to ditch that old gym pass, then you obviously have not tried out the roof track or mini-soccer field. For a unique workout or just plain fun with friends, head to the roof.

7. No monthly membership fees, sort of

Every tuition-paying student pays the price that includes all campus amenities, including the Recreation Center. Stretch that monthly budget by ditching the pricey gym membership and utilize what you have already paid for at the university.

Photo by Sarah Jane O’Keefe

health mythbusters

By Lauren Rios

I

t may not be all apples and oranges, but healthy eating no longer has to be a mystery.

California Baptist University faculty members, Dr. Margaret Barth, professor of nutrition and food sciences, and Dr. Juliann Perdue, assistant professor of nursing and director of clinical affiliations, set the record straight on a few popular health myths.

Myth: Diet soda is good for you because it has zero calories.

Truth: “Soda as a whole is not good for you,” Perdue said. “It’s full of sodium. Diet (sodas) has the sweetener in it, which is laced with chemicals.”

These chemicals will not satisfy an appetite, but they could lead to overeating later. Substituting water for sugary drinks will cut calories and meet the daily water requirements recommended by the FDA. Myth: Fast food does not offer healthy options.

Truth: “I had an opportunity to work on the development for the salad program for various food companies,” Barth said. “Restaurant chains are concerned about having those healthy options.”

The choice is in the hands of the consumer — to go for a cheeseburger or a sandwich filled with vegetables.

“Subway is good because you can get low-calorie sandwiches with the vegetables and apples as a side,” Perdue said.

Myth: I can eat all the fruit I want.

Truth: Some fruits, such as watermelon, contain a lot of sugar.

“Keep in mind fruit juice is not the same as fresh fruit,” Perdue said. “It is full of sugar. Dried, canned and dehydrated fruit are (also) higher in sugar content. It should always be fresh.”

Myth: All carbohydrates are bad.

Truth: Complex carbohydrates are an essential part of a diet.

“There is a difference between complex and simple carbohydrates,” Barth said. “Complex carbohydrates are important in the diet. They are higher fiber foods, whole fruits, whole vegetables and legumes.”

A simple carbohydrate could be a soda that you drink or candy that you eat. In simple carbohydrates, glucose is absorbed almost immediately into the blood stream. When this happens, there is a rapid spike in your blood sugar, which eventually descends and leaves you with a crash.

Awareness of the nutritional information of food is essential for ensuring the body gets the proper nutrients it needs to stay healthy.

Photo by Jacob Armstrong

PURSUIT | 09

2012

the

crowns

By cristin massey

I

t was homecoming night when best friends Aubree Worrell and Brandon Fries stood side-by-side and opened a giant box releasing gold balloons — signaling they are the newest Mr. and Ms. California Baptist University.

However, beneath the crowns stand students finding their way through school and learning how to mix their faith and leadership positions.

Fries, senior sociology major, is a known jokester. Worrell, senior early childhood studies major, is an animal-lover.

Both not only find the timefor friends and studies but also to put the Lord above anything else.

10 | PURSUIT

Beyond

“The title is a reflection of someone who loves the Lord,” Fries says of the selection.

Both Worrell and Fries are heavily involved in giving back and being leaders on CBU’s campus.

Both serve as community advisors for the men’s and women’s dorms; Fries at Smith and Worrell at Simmons Hall. They are even commonly referred to as “Mom and Dad” among their residents.

Aside from gaining a title that will live on, the future for both students is still uncertain, and they do not worry about where God will take them.

Instead, they embrace uncertainty.

Fries may be moving to Oregon or Hawaii after graduation, but Ireland reamains a dream destination. Wor-

rell, on the other hand, wants to live overseas and share the Gospel after getting her teaching credentials and master’s in education.

Between leadership activities and the ever-busy school schedule, Fries still manages to let his cheerful attitude chime in. Worrell commented, with a laughing grin, that he knows how to dance.

“Play a song and I’m there,” Fries says.

Ms. CBU coordinates fun for Smith and Simmons Hall.

“She is so creative,” Fries says. “She came up with all the activities.”

Prestigious titles aside, Worrell and Fries are just regular students who choose to make a difference in people’s lives in their own way.

Mr & Ms CBU Aubree Worrell & Brandon Fries

history behind the crowns

By Sarah Jane O’Keefe

California Baptist College opened its doors to students in the fall 1950, welcoming 42 students to its original El Monte, Calif., location. In 1959, the school began a tradition that has lasted through more than 60 years of change and enrollment growth to omore than 6,000 students.

Through the tradition of electing a Mr. and Ms. CBU., the university continues to embrace the annual royal celebration.

Angie Betts and Warren Campbell were crowned as the first Mr. and Ms CBC in 1959.

California Baptist University gained its “university” standing in 1998, but it was not until the 1999 – 2000 school year that the title officially changed to Mr. and Ms CBU. Heather Lee and Anthony Harris were the the first to earn the title of Mr. and Ms. CBU. This year, due to changes to the annual Homecoming schedule, the winners were crowned at The Fortuna Bowl, breaking the tradition of the announcing the winners at the formal Yule event.

No matter when or where the crowning takes place, Mr. and Ms CBU is a timehonored tradition that alumni and students from any graduation year can bond over.

PURSUIT | 11

TNEDNEPEDN

How to be

Miss Independent By grace ferrell

Living in the modern world women are told to be and do many things, but truly being a woman means to define your own independence.

1

Always accept new opportunities regardless of your perceived qualifications.

I received my first “big girl” camera for Christmas in 2010. As I write this today, I have photographed numerous weddings, presidential candidates and rock stars. How did I get from not even knowing how to turn the device on to where I am today? By never letting fear of incompetence let me turn down an offer or assignment.

Sure, I was terrified during my first wedding gig that I would miss the couple’s big kiss and not provide them with the images every bride and groom want from their big day. However, I also knew that God had blessed me with a talent. If God was blessing my life with great opportunities, then who was I to turn them down by saying I was not ready?

Moses feared himself incapable of leading the Israelites out of Egypt.

However, God equipped him with every skill he needed to complete the job. As Christian women, we too must understand that God is equipping us to handle the job.

We must look at opportunities that God is placing in our lives as gifts, and not let fear of rejection or failure stop us.

Photo by Sarah Jane O’Keefe

2

Balance calls to focus on family and on careers.

Christian women today are raised to vote, buy property and financially support themselves. We have the chance to have high-power careers and high heels. Then, somewhere along the journey, we meet “the one.” Our Pinterest boards become consumed with rings and wedding décor. The career we spent years in college working toward takes the back burner because God is calling us to “focus on family.”

Nothing is wrong with those strong, Christian, stayat-home wives and mothers. They face challenges others never imagine. However, we do a disservice to ourselves, our families and God’s calling when we ignore the career to which we once felt God’s calling in exchange for the family he blesses us with. At the end of the day, Christian women are called to balance both. God might call us for one or the other; however, we should be open to the idea that God wants us to focus on both careers and families.

3

Spend just as much time in a church pew as you do in the office My days are dominated by constant emails requesting something from me. Papers demand to be written for that class I have in a couple hours, and texts from friends I have not seen in months light up my phone at all hours of the day.

Amid all the noise of life as an “independent” woman, I find myself needing the seclusion found in spending time with God. Whether that is through a chapel service, Sunday morning sermon, quiet time during my morning shower or a quick prayer sent up to him during a stressful moment, keeping God on the forefront of my mind is key. It recharges me. It relieves my burdens. It refocuses me on why exactly I am doing all the work that I am — to further God’s ultimate glory and his kingdom.

That alone is why I am an independent, Christian woman.

Major Changes BY olivia miller

In the fall 2006, sophomore Mykale Hall walked into his first college class. However, at this time he was a liberal arts major. Six years, seven schools and six majors later, Hall walked onto the campus of California Baptist University as a kinesiology major in the fall 2012.

He moved through sports psychology, communications, video editing, radio, and has now settled on kinesiology.

“Basketball had been my life, I didn’t know “Once I get into anything else or think something and anything else,” Hall says his analyze it, I ingoal is to become a teacher, as it was six years ago. stantly know if it’s Hall figured out how something I want to to translate his love of do or if I was to try basketball into a career and is working to become something else” a basketball coach and - Mykale Hall physical education teacher.

While in school for film, Hall told one of his classmates an embarrassing story about himself. By the fourth time telling the story, Hall was speaking to a crowd of people. Hall was approached and offered a scholarship to attend radio school.

It is not uncommon to find other students who have changed their majors.

Daniel Garcia, senior marketing major, has changed his major four times. Garcia had his mind set on engineering. Then, he discovered his love for people and decided marketing was a better fit for him.

While frequent changes in major can delay a graduation date and add to the stress of knowing what classes are required, both men agree that exploring different fields has given them assurance they are now where they are supposed to be.

PURSUIT | 13

Day in the life of a commuter

SCHOOL CROSSING 14 | PURSUIT

Photos by Jarel Roxas

By matthew swope

M

ost university students allow themselves adequate time to get ready in the morning, grab a bite to eat, maybe a five-or-10 minute walk to class or even a nap in between classes throughout a work filled day.

The joys of rolling out of bed and practically sleep-walking to class are out of the picture for commuter student, Christina Dodd, sophomore nursing major.

Her day usually starts the night before, with a quick pre-packing of her backpack and a look at what clothes in the closet are clean.

Her alarm clock is set much earlier than a half-hour before class starts. Many factors must be considered: traffic, weather and if coffee is mandatory or elective.

“My day starts with me waking up and getting ready,” Dodd says. “I shower, do my hair and makeup. I make my own breakfast, make sure I don’t forget anything, grab my coffee and work uniform and then head out the door before I am any later.”

After making it to school, Dodd makes trips in between classes to trade out books from her bag to her back seat, keeping her bag light. During her lunch break, Dodd leaves campus, usually making the trip to Islands Cafe, Chipotle or Panera Bread.

Dodd, like other commuter students, finds she is more organized than the typical student living on campus.

“Commuter students are way more organized than conventional students because if we forget something at home, we are pretty much out of luck,” Dodd says.

When the school day ends for Dodd, it is off to work for a few hours. She ends her night with hours of homework and studying.

“After school and work are over, I head home, do my homework and go to sleep. It’s a vicious circle.”

Commuting may seem like an inconvenience, but for a local student like Christina Dodd, the price she pays to save money in the long run may outweigh the fast-paced life she is currently living.

-up wake6:45

6:50-7:25

Wake up, make first cup of coffee!

7:25-7:30

Get Ready!

Pack work clothes and textbooks.

7:45

8:15-8:20

Double check everything is in my car, and leave

Get to school, struggle to find parking.

9-11

lunch11

Leave for lunch (usually Panera, Chipotle or Islands).

Class — Informatics and communications in nursing.

7:30

Make breakfast, prep coffee No. 2 for the drive and put everything in the car.

1-2:50

11:30-1

Class — Theoretical foundations in nursing.

Back on campus to study and prepare.

3:30-4:30 Study/ Facebook/ Pinterest, coffee No. 3 at Starbucks.

4:30 Go to work

9:30 Get off work and drive home.

BUM A H E AP D

3

Leave campus and head to Starbucks by my work.

9:50-10:30

Get home and shower, lay out clothes and work stuff for tomorrow.

e m i t d be

10:3011:30 Study

11:30-1am Go to Sleep!

PURSUIT | 15

Dos & dont’s of being

A

s students, our lives are centered on schoolwork and the degrees we are pursuing. The success of our studies is a top priority for most of us, but how to be successful is something we all seem to struggle with day-to-day. Students all agree that balance and time-management are key factors in the success of students.

student

By Brianna Nelson

“Have good timemanagement, and don’t let the little stress of each assignment get to you,” says Delaney Kinne, sophomore liberal studies major.

16 | PURSUIT

By lauren rios

As one chapter ends, another begins after the diploma is placed in the hands of a hardworking student after years of college.

For many, it is time to get a real-world job and start the career they worked toward for years.

Then, there are those who want to further their educational career and pursue a graduate degree.

Students at California Baptist University debate whether attending a graduate program is the best route to choose.

For Emily Ming, senior Christian behavioral science major, graduate school is more of a distant plan.

a stellar “Finding a healthy balance between fun and studying is important. You have to take care of the most important things in your life, family, hobbies, and studying. Then the little things,” says Whitman Beitel, junior mechanical engineering major.

Great debate: grad school

“Don’t overindulge in Netflix and Google. Don’t skip classes, and try to invest in your courses. If you do as little as possible, it is not fun for you or the professor. Don’t get behind in your classes,” adds Shane Blake, junior English and Christian behavioral science double major.

“I do plan on attending grad school because I desire to pursue a Christian ministries degree,” Ming says. “I would love to learn from the professors that CBU offers.”

However, some students are leery of having more school loans and debt when they graduate.

“Money is a deciding factor because it is part of the reason for me needing to wait a year before starting my master’s,” Ming said.

Loans will add up, and accumulate interest over time.

“Money would be a major factor because I already have so many school loans from getting my bachelor’s of science in nursing,” says Caitlin Hatter, senior nursing major. “I would probably go back to my home state because

prices would be much cheaper for me.”

Although graduate school can be timeconsuming and pricey, having a master’s degree can set you apart from the rest: it can provide a competitive edge over others when interviewing for a job, a promotion or even better pay.

With positives, come negatives as well.

Most graduate schools are highly competitive.

Students are at a crossroads for their decision to continue onto a graduate degree.

“It would be stressful, but it all depends on the timing,” Hatter says. “Life is stressful, I don’t think it is anything I could not handle.”

Evaluating the pros and cons of decisions can provide clarity for students who are wondering if going for a graduate degree is the right choice.

“Take classes you love and want to take. Pick something you’re interested in. Be involved. Being involved in some sort of aspect of the CBU community will help you desire to be here,” says Christina Bauch, junior communication studies major.

“Make sure you wake up ahead of time for class. Don’t study all the night before. Plan for fun activities because you need a life too. Don’t let distractions affect you,” says Jessica O. Acusa, senior nursing major.

Models: Aaron McCalmont and Kimberly McCalmont Photo by Willoughby Douglas

PURSUIT | 17

FASHION

sChubbies, new form of expression

By brianna nelson

en everywhere have been saying goodbye to cargo shorts, and saying hello to the fashionable freedom of what the creators of the Chubbies brand are calling, “the most radical shorts

known to man.”

Known as “Chubbies,” these shorts are bringing back the trend of showing a man’s thighs.

“Pretty much the whole idea with the shorts, and with them being so set apart from any other type of short, is because it’s a statement,” said Benjamin Esau, senior marketing major. “Like the flappers in the 1920s: it’s a choice to wear something that is a little bit more on the socially unusual side.

It is also something that is a statement of freedom.”

With catchy phrases such as: “sky’s out, thighs out,” and “thigh liberation,” it goes to wonder why these shorts have caused a large amount of controversy on and off campus.

“I think guys have more of an issue with it than girls, but some girls have an issue with it as well,” said Paul Jakubowski, sophomore business major.

For those familiar with 1980s fashion, the shift away from baggy cargo shorts is not a surprise. These short shorts may seem like

the

LIBERATION of the

THIGH

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18 | PURSUIT

Lisette Nichols

FASHION seen as an expression of singledom.

“It’s kind of a statement for single guys,” Esau said. “It can be taken one of two ways: either the guy is trying to flaunt what he has, or in some cases doesn’t have but still wants to flaunt it; or he is just enjoying the single life, and enjoying wearing them for the comfort side, and not really worrying about what people think of him. It can be a statement or a choice of comfort.”

No matter the reasoning behind the choice, these men have experienced all types of reactions towards the shorts.

“I was longboarding around campus, and when you longboard the shorts do tend to ride up a little bit more, but it wasn’t anything awful,” Thornburg said. “I was riding in between this one group and I heard this guy say, ‘Uh, dress code, Bro.’” The dress code debate is one that is spreading throughout the campus. Some guys are going so far as to call the shorts “unmasculine.”

“Just as girls should follow a dress code at cbu so should guys,” said Stephen Thomas, graduate EL-MSN student. Besides, nobody wants to see that. It is more of an attention thing. I believe they disgrace masculinity by wearing “chubbies”

something revolutionary when, in fact, the length of the Chubbies is very reminiscent of the shorts found in the 1980s.

“It was perfectly acceptable in the ’80s for guys to wear short shorts, but now, people shun short shorts,” said Aaron J. Thornburg, sophomore Christian studies major.

Thornburg explains that just a generation ago, short shorts, like the Chubbies, were celebrated and a part of every day fashion.

The men who have been a part of this fashion revolution explain that the hesitation surrounding Chubbies centers around one thing: comfort.

“A lot of guys are afraid of showing their legs,” Jakubowski said. “It is totally an inferiority issue. Sometimes it’s an irrational fear, and sometimes you want them to put it 20 | PURSUIT

away because they are white and hairy. Other times, you just want to say, ‘Bro you have nice calves. Or nice upper legs and thighs.’”

Aside from flaunting a man’s assets, Esau explains that aside from fashion trends, it is also a question of comfort.

“I think for the most part it is personal comfort,” Esau said. “It was a little bit easier for me (to start wearing the shorts) because I was in swimming and we wore speedos, which are way more revealing. It kind of harkens back to that same kind of free that I would enjoy from being on the swim team.

One of the guys who started Chubbies put it perfectly: ‘It’s kind of like not having something smothering.’”

The Chubbies community also explains that the liberation of thighs can be

Even girls are chiming in on the debate of these shorts.

“I think guys have more of an issue with it than girls, but some girls have an issue with it as well,” Jakubowski said.

The question is: would the shorts pass the dress code test?

“I’ve had Merea Price, program director for Clubs and Events for Residence Life, joke about it,” Esau said. “She said something about how she was wondering if I would pass the dress code test.”

The CBU dress code explains that “shorts, skirts and dresses [must be] at a length that will allow the wearer’s finger tips to touch the garment when arms and hands are fully extended, while standing.”

While these shorts are short, the men that participate in this trend take special care to abide by the dress code.

Despite the controversy of the shorts, the chubbies community is here to stay.

“We are here,” Thornburg said. “So get used to it.”

This expression of freedom can be seen as the next fashion revolution: marking comfort, freedom and an expression of ‘singledom’ as the justification for this radical shift.

Pretty much the whole idea with the shorts, and with them being so set apart from any other type of short, is because it’s a statement, said Benjamin Esau

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NO

YES NO

NO

YES

If facial hair is a year-round thing for you, you might be in the school of Christian ministries. You care more about your studies, and the massive amount of reading, than personal appearance.

You still look good, but there are more things to worry about than what clothes you wear.

PASTOR WHISKERS

YES

YES

Tank tops and beachwear are the majority of clothing items in your closet?

NO

Do you own more than 10 pairs of shoes?

Likes wearing board shorts as shorts. Sandals, especially Rainbow sandals, are a must. Over-sized flowy shirts with ripped jeans are the casual wear, or shorts with a tank top. Bro tanks for the guys, big sundresses and wavy beach hair for the women.

Rocks Nike shorts and a T-shirt or sweatpants with a hoodie. Occasionally dresses nice, but only for specific reasons. Always ready to hit the gym.

ACTIVE ATHLETE

YES BOHEMIAN HIPSTER

YES

NO

Photos by Jessica Bills

The urban look mixed in with vintage attire. Skinny pants of varied colors with an ironic T-shirt is the casual wear. Rocks glasses with thick rims and old sneakers, is not afraid of layering and wears a lot of scarves.

You LOVE T-shirts, sweatpants and exercise shorts.

NO

YES

Do you dress nice two to three times per week?

NO NO

SOCAL FLAIR

Do you rock facial hair a lot or leave your hair down and natural most of the time?

NO

Do you own more than one pair of Rainbow Sandals?

YES

NO

Have an art to making your hair perfectly messy?

YES

Do you own clothing from a different decade?

NO

Do you blindly grab something out of your closet and put it on?

Do you brush your hair DAILY?

YES YES

Do you exercise DAILY?

YES

Are dress shoes something you wear a lot?

If heels, dresses to the knees and suits are the norm, then you rock the choir attire.

Always looking refined and put together, curls and ties are no bother to you.

CHOIR ATTIRE

YES

Do you wear sweater vests, ties or pencil skirts and long skirts?

NO

YES

BY KIRA KRAMER

discover your style Does it take you LESS than 30 MINUTES to get ready in the morning?

START

Do you style your hair?

FASHION By jessica bills

a salon or barber shop to get their hair cut usually once a month like myself.” he ancient Romans debated over Some guys may entrust their faux hawks which neighboring territories to with professional hair stylists, but others can conquer. The pilgrims who landed on find contentment in asking their roommate Plymouth Rock squabbled over establishing for a buzz cut. A few other guys find great joy towns, religions and relationships with their in shaving their hallmates’ head. While he is newly acquired land. asleep. Without him knowing.

However, the age-old debate of this Jordan D. Singer, sophomore graphic generation will be “to stubble or not to design major adds, “For me, I honestly stubble?” think that (the trend of unique grooming) Grooming for men can be good and even is because this generation is growing up in a great. But, as women we hope that you did time where men are looking to be set apart by not participate in “Jan-u-hairy.” being the most manly of men.”

There are many contributing factors to a In addition, male grooming provides man’s decisions about his appearance. One’s many outlets for guys to express themselves facial hair or preference speaks greatly to his and feel camaraderie with other bearded personality. fellows.

“It certainly speaks to their personal Glenn Rex, junior biology education discipline,” says Jeremy O’Neil, junior liberal major, says he can appreciate a good solid studies major. “Unkempt beards to me show mustache, but on someone else. laziness. For me, I feel like having scruff kind “Mustaches are the business, but I can’t of displays my easyfully support going personality.”

‘While facial hair can tell you small them,” Rex adds.

Danae Lane, details about a guy’s personality, “I have a facialjunior communication it has no bearing on his character’ hair deficiency.” disorders major, has Jeremy O’Neil says.

But these done an extensive music students amount of thinking about the facial hair and Rex should take heart. Facial hair is decisions males make. not the only way guys can showcase their “Personality is often displayed in how we personalities. Really, personality can shine look,” Lane says. “Facial hair can sometimes through whatever beard or bowl-cut a guy portray certain personality traits, like if (guys) may be having that day. are outdoorsy or serious.”

“While facial hair can tell you small Another facet of men’s grooming is the details about a guy’s personality, it has no way they get their hair cut. GQ magazine bearing on his character,” O’Neil says. “Plus, named 27 hairstyles for the year 2013. Some many guys our age don’t even know what of the hairstyles included: the Peak Jagged they’re doing with their facial hair. They’re Cut, the Blended Short Cut, the Quipp, and still exploring what kind of facial hair works even one called the James Franco. for them.”

There is no denying that men’s grooming However, it is your hair in which you takes a prominent role in their lives, whether have to look in the mirror. If you want to they choose to upkeep it or let it go natural. have a beard like a young Santa Claus, then Guys on the CBU campus have been find some pals to play Black Ops with on known to go to barber shops to get shaved.

Valentine’s Day because you probably will “I go to a salon down on Tyler Street not have a date. Kidding. Maybe. But in to get my hair cut,” says Austin Bowman, all seriousness, if you dig those long locks, junior criminal justice major. “I know a lot let them grow. If you enjoy your smooth of guys, though, who trust their friends with face, shave away. Let your personality shine some clippers to do their hair, but not me … through your stubble because that is what will I know plenty of guys who prefer to go to make the right girl stumble.

T

Modern mens grooming 24 | PURSUIT

Photo by Sarah Jane O’Keefe

opinions from a male shopper

BY MATTHEW SWOPE

Inconvenient, time-consuming and expensive are the easiest ways to describe the tedious task of shopping for new threads. Men rank shopping for clothes low on their “to-do” lists.

In contrast to women, men set out on a mission for the specific articles of clothing they actually need. Shopping is not about walking through an entire store and seeing what they have, that takes way too much time. It is all about the visual scan from the doors of the store, hunting for the previous thought-up necessities or anything that pops out.

Decisions go as follows: price, size, buy. We recall what is in our closets that could maybe go along with the item and it is a done deal.

For the most part, dressing rooms are to be avoided — we know our size. Most clothes fit the same way for men. Guys do not have to worry about the way shirts fit in certain areas or if our pants make us look fat. All most guys care about is looking good while feeling comfortable.

Men look for clothes that could be worn with everything, unlike women, who find a blouse or pair of shoes that mainly work with just one outfit or style of dress.

Most men find shopping online is the easiest way to buy clothes. Instead of running around from store to store, or even mall to mall, guys can find the best bargains from the comfort of our couches.

Although, we know looking good means enduring the ongoing shopping battle.

PURSUIT | 25

FASHION

BY REBEKAH WALBERG

CULTURE MEETS FASHION Women are finding ways of incorporating their traditional cultural values with modern American fashion

simple denim jeans and T-shirts.

When she attended college in Hong eeping up with current fashion trends Kong, Chung says she would put more effort can be difficult for anyone but a dedi- into her outfit, since culturally, people dress cated fashionista. However, underup when going out. standing the trends of two separate cultures is Fashion is an integral part of any culture, an entirely different story. particularly in Rwanda. Hosiana Abewe, Luckily for Yann Tsz Yan Chung, junior sophomore biochemistry major from Kigali, kinesiology major, her home city of Hong said a Rwandan can tell another Rwandan by Kong is a cultural melting pot for fashion. the clothing he or she is wearing.

“We have many people from all over the It is customary for women in Rwanda to world,” Chung says. wear modest clothing such as long skirts and This contributes to the wide variety of pants. Leggings, a popular clothing choice in styles that can be found in the areas of this the United States, are only worn with dresses, Chinese mega-city. as it would be considered immodest to wear Hong Kong follows trends outside of them, otherwise.

American fashion. According to Chung, Since it is an important aspect of Rwanone of this year’s trends among teenagers is dan culture, Abewe’s personal style did not the color hot pink. Fashions ranging from change when she moved to the United States. suit styles to makeup are affected by current Most day-to-day Rwandan clothing trends in the city. can look similar to American fashions, but Hong Kong is also influenced by the for ceremonies and other special occasions, fashion trends of nearby Asian cultures.

Rwandan women wear a type of dress called Korean fashion influenced the city for the “umushana.” The sari-like garb comes in all past couple of years, and before that, Japanese colors and textures, from flower-patterned, to fashion inspired its residents. silky white to sequined and glittering.

“We don’t really have a “(Wearing the umushana) ‘Hong Kong’ style,” Chung gives you pride,” Abewe says. says, mainly due the myriad Because of its great cultur“No one wears of fashion elements the al significance, putting on the pants, not even city integrates within its umushana is a way of celebratto bed,” Meghan culture. ing Rwandan tradition.

Iteen says.

Though the overall Meghan Iteen, sophomore fashion trends in Hong liberal studies major, experiKong are different, many enced a unique aspect of culof the city’s residents wear popular American ture shock when she went on an International brands, such as Abercrombie & Fitch and Service Project to Uganda last summer. The Hollister.

California native had to adjust her own wardChung says her personal style does not robe to blend in culturally with Ugandans. change much between her two homes. When In Uganda, Iteen wore knee-length or she is at school, Chung will often wear what longer skirts. the youth in Hong Kong would call “neigh“No one wears pants, not even to bed,” borhood style,” which is casual attire, such as Iteen says of the traditonal female style.

K

Iteen did not find the adjustment too difficult. She says her style in the United States is self-described as “comfortable and casual,” which translated well to the low-key garb she wore in Uganda.

Though Iteen and her ISP team specifically tailored their wardrobes to fit in with the Ugandan community, she still noticed a key difference between her own clothing and true national fashions.

Ugandan marketplaces are filled with bright colors and vivid patterns, much different than the clothes Iteen wore.

“Their fashion even reflects their music,” Iteen said.

“Like when they would sing worship music. They’re very happy and upbeat, which is a lot like their bright clothes.”

Fashion is a vital part of every culture.

Understanding the fashion of a new culture can be difficult at first, but it is ultimately rewarding, as it provides a unique view of the culture and its people.

Left: Hosiana Abewe models a long dress, a typcial style in Rwanda.

Right: Yann Tsz Yan Chung shows off a look from Hong Kong that borrows from styles across the world.

26 | PURSUIT

Photos by Joshua Zubia

RELATIONSHIPS

In Perfect timing

BY Lea Hernandez

E

ach person has someone with who he or she is meant to spend forever. For some students, this person may already be in their lives, but for others this person may seem like an illusion.

Students may find themselves wondering when it will be their time to move forward into a relationship.

It is believed by some that others rush into “finding” the one instead of focusing on “being” the one.

Some students believe that being “the one” means rejoicing in the time they have to be single and concentrating on their relationship with God — believing that everything will happen in His timing.

Beth L. Enlow, senior liberal studies major, says, “God has a plan for each of our lives. Everything is going to happen when it does, I trust in that.”

Others believe that being “the one” means patiently leaning on God to provide their future spouse .They have faith that God will give them the right person at the right time ­­— believing that God is never late.

Patrick R. Smith, senior communications studies, says, “If I am focusing on God, that means I am trusting him to bring the right woman into my life, whether it is just to date or for me to grow through that relationship. Even if it doesn’t work out, I can trust him and be patient that he will eventually bring the right one to me.”

The purpose of waiting for a future spouse is to find satisfaction in Christ alone, and to be whole in Him before committing to a relationship. Some who are looking to be “the one” believe that it is only through Christ that they can have a satisfying and stable relationship.

“We should not find our satisfaction in ‘the one,’” says,Marissa Garcia, senior

28 | PURSUIT

communications major, says.

“When we put everything into another human that is a sinner, we are bound to find heartache and failure, but when we focus on what God is doing, we will always be taken care of. That other person isn’t going to be able to do that.”

Garcia says she believes the relationship she has developed in Christ is preparing her for whatever He has in store for her, whether it is life choices or relationship decisions.

“I should be confident and secure with my relationship with God because if something doesn’t work out with that significant other, I need to know it wasn’t my everything and that my everything is found in Christ,” “They will appreciate Garcia adds. that I have tried to be the Macayla A. Bequette, senior best godly woman I can liberal studies major, says that to be,” Macayla Bequette. be “the one” means to allow Christ to mold them. Believing their future spouse will acknowledge that they took the time to be molded by Christ alone.

“They will appreciate that I have tried to be the best godly woman I can be and with that I hope to be able to encourage each other to find purpose only in the Lord,” says Bequette.

These students are confident that with God’s perfect timing their eyes and hearts will be opened to the one person who God has for them. For these students, being “the one” means having a heart for what He desires because focusing on God’s desires will bring them to the place he has intended.

Photo by Jessica Bills

From Left to Right: Kayla Limonois, Karyn Lo Presti,Laurel Rose Galipault, Abigail Pless, Beth Enlow and Patrick Smith

PURSUIT | 29

RELATIONSHIPS

To ask or not to ask By jessica bills

D

ating etiquettes can range from the guy paying for everything to the woman letting him open doors. Some might say these etiquettes are outdated; others might say they are mandatory acts of chivalry.

Whatever your opinion is on dating mannerisms, one cannot deny that there was once a place for them within dating.

But was that 50 years ago or do these traditions still apply?

What about the custom of a man asking the father of his girlfriend for her hand in marriage? Is this tradition only a polite but unnecessary action or a respectful requirement to begin uniting the families?

Jason Rivette, sophomore business major, says he supports the involvement of the future father-in-law.

“The father’s blessing shows that he

trusts the man to be there for the woman in every way possible, giving her away to a new life for the better,” Rivette says. “Asking a father for his blessing is a way to show the parent you care for their daughter and respect their decision, as well.”

Allison Palenske, sophomore nursing major, adds, “It’s important to ask a dad’s permission. Even if it’s outdated, it’s still respectable, a great way for the guy to start being included with the family.”

Although asking the father’s permission is very popular and often thought of as mandatory, is it really what couples want? Or is it just what they feel pressured to do?

“Traditionally, that’s what is expected,” Alissa Salvati, sophomore music education major, says. “However, in this generation, things have been demoralized. I believe it is based off of tradition. I only feel it is necessary because it’s what is expected, not because it’s my personal preference.”

Robin Whitman, junior biology major, agrees with the idea that asking for permission is an optional form of reverence toward the father.

“We live in a very different time,” Whitman says. “It isn’t necessary, but it is respectful to the father.”

In some cases, it is not helpful for the couple to get the parents involved.

Sometimes, fathers are estranged from their daughters. At times, they choose not to be in their daughter’s life. Sometimes, by choice or not, they just are not around. This can make the ritual unnecessary.

“I don’t think it’s the father’s decision,” Whitman said. “It could cause more of a conflict if the father doesn’t agree and the couple still wants to get married anyway. Also, some girls don’t have their fathers in their lives and some fathers don’t have the same morals and beliefs (as their daughter).”

In another case, Silvia Bolanos, junior

Although asking the father’s permission is popular and often thought of as mandatory, is it really what couples want to do? Or is it what they feel pressured to do?

30 | PURSUIT

nursing major, knows that her father does not want anyone to ask him for permission to marry her, but she hopes he will change his outlook sometime.

“He doesn’t want anyone asking because he won’t give permission,” Bolanos says. “In the future I see him wanting for the guy asking. It would take a long time for him to come to terms with the fact that he will be giving me away.”

Hector Espejel, sophomore business administration major, recently took his relationship to the next level when he proposed Jan. 20 to Celina Diaz, his high school sweetheart.

“It’s tradition for me, but I knew it was important to earn her parents trust and respect before I asked her,” he said. “It would be wrong to do it without their permission.”

Espejel explains the process of getting his future father-in-law’s approval. First, he went to her father and told him of his plans for he and Diaz.

“He said that he knew this day would come and that he knows I love his daughter. I told him I planned to marry her in the future and that I would never disrespect her in any way,” Espejel says. “She is his daughter and he needs to know my intentions and how I will take care of (her). So he needs to say if I am fit to take care of her.”

After some time had passed, Espejel started an accounting internship, receiving further financial stability and a ring.

“The day before I proposed, I talked to (her father) and I told him about Celina and how much I loved her,” Espejel said. “He asked when I was going to do it and I showed him the ring and then he said, ‘Go for it,’ and gave me a hug.”

This traditional etiquette in dating has its place. It may be necessary for one couple, but not to another. It may be mandatory to one family, but not to another. It is a balancing act of respect, tradition, parents and, of course, the couple. Every couple is different and unique, and so isww their wedding, proposal or dating process.

Left Photo by Jarel Roxas Right Photo Illustration by Sarah Jane O’Keefe

LANCER WEDDINGS

By Sharayah Le Leux

W

ith the Fortuna Fountain in the background, Hannah Heighes walked down the aisle in the A.J. Staples Room to Patrick Green. From that day forward, California Baptist University would be where the two alumni earned their undergraduate degrees and wedding certificate.

CBU offers its current students, alumni, faculty, staff and family members the opportunity to have wedding ceremonies, receptions or a combination of the two in various locations on campus.

The package for wedding ceremonies includes: a ceremony in S.E. Smith Courtyard, Harden Square or Fortuna Fountain for 200 – 500 guests varying by location; a wedding coordinator; sound system with an audio/video technician; separate bride and groom changing rooms; a rehearsal; custodial management; security and parking.

The wedding coordinators help the couples in any way they can for

their wedding.

“I always tell my brides I’m not just their wedding coordinator,”says Jenna Sowers, Office of Conferences and Events wedding coordinator.

“I pray over them; I pray for their relationship.”

The wedding reception locations on campus also include the Presidential Copenbarger Dining Room or the A.J. Staples Room.

Quotes can be obtained by requesting information from the Office of Conferences and Events.

“We want to get a really good idea of what (couples) want to do specifically so that we can not only quote them accurately, but be able to answer their questions,” said Coreylon Polk, conferences and events manager.

For more information about hosting a wedding ceremony or reception on campus contact the Office of Conference and Events at (951) 343 – 4374 or stop by the office on the first floor of James Building.

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RELATIONSHIPS

cyber break-ups

planning a

By Alex Korhely-Day

wedding & graduation BY caitlyn fairfax

From sending out graduation announcements to wedding invitations, senior year can be life-changing for more than one reason.

As graduation approaches, the ever-coveted “ring by spring” will become a reality for some, while wedding dates near for others.

Midterms and finals can send college students’ stress levels through the roof, but adding wedding plans to the mix can make for an even more taxing senior year.

Let’s meet the Husens. Kasey, who graduated from California Baptist University this past fall with a bachelor’s degree in public relations, is the director of communications at Crossroads Church in Corona, Calif. Her husband, Kai, is a web developer at PlainJoe Studios in Corona.

“I always told Kai I was fine not getting married until I graduated,” Kasey says.

She knows how tricky it can be to plan a wedding and simultaneously prep for graduation. She and Kai were wed on Nov. 18, 2012, just one month prior to her graduation.

“Going back and forth between school and work each day took a toll on me, but I knew the busyness was only for a season and it would be worth it. I had great support and chose a venue that made planning easy,” Kasey says.

32 | PURSUIT

For some, planning a wedding before graduation is out of the question. It isn’t something they want to think about.

Jessica Lopez, senior communication studies major, says she feels that students should wait until after graduation to get married.

Lopez and her boyfriend have been together for two and a half years, and have made the decision to wait until after graduation to take the next step in their relationship.

There is no rush; students should focus on going to school and getting their lives started, Lopez says. “People change, things change and you have to be accepting of that,” Lopez adds.

Although some students would prefer to keep their senior year as simple and stress-free as possible, the Husens went forward with their plan to merge their lives.

“If I had another year or so left of school, we probably wouldn’t have gotten married before graduation. God timed out everything perfectly for us so that I would finish school at the right time for us to be married,” Kasey says.

“We knew I was going to graduate one month before (we got married), so for us, it wasn’t that big of a deal. It is different for everyone. God gave us the perfect timing and we knew it was right. I think knowing God’s timing is most important.”

Photos by Willoughby Douglas

A part of life is experiencing and trying out new things, although a major downfall to this is when things do not go as planned.

As if breakups are not hard enough, some are finding it harder and harder to cope with and move on because of constant reminders from social media.

Back in our parents’ day, when a couple broke up the only way to know what they were doing was by word of mouth. Now, one click of a mouse, a scorned person is directed to the other’s Facebook, Twitter or Instagram informing them of their every move.

Tyler Garrison, senior kinesiology major, says he believes that a relationship should be kept private outside of social media.

“On a different level social media can dictate a relationship,” Garrison says. “People would talk more in person if we didn’t have it.

Because of it, people opt out of face-to-face communication and depend on social media within their relationship.”

However, Garrison says he is a firm believer in trust within a relationship.

“If (trust) is there, then social media does not have the power to break them and create jealousy, but it can tear the relationship apart if they let it integrate within them,” he says.

Often, once the relationship has ended, social media makes it harder to let go and move on because of the constant reminder of the bond that is no longer there.

Even after deleting or blocking an exboyfriend or girlfriend from the site, pictures and posts are still visible through friends.

Danielle Wesche, junior nursing major, has experienced trying to move on with the

struggle of social media burdening the process.

“I personally believe it makes it harder,” Wesche says.

“You have to change your relationship status to have what seems like the whole world question your motives. If that’s not bad enough, you also have to figure out if you should keep or delete the countless pictures you have stored in social media. If you delete them, then everyone assumes it was a tragic breakup and if you keep them, everyone assumes you are not over the other person.”

Trying to move on is hard enough as it is. Going on Facebook and seeing a tagged picture of your ex with a group of people can be heart-wrenching.

On the other hand, social media has benefits for a hurting heart.

“It can be a stress reliever as well,” Garrison says. “Going through a breakup, you can post something and someone can respond. It is an attention-grabber. Knowing people care about how you feel helps.”

While relationships and break-ups are not easy on their own, adding extra complications, such as social media, make the experience more challenging and harder to overcome.

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TRAVEL

School Is out: Forever STUDENTS HIT THE ROAD AFTER YEARS OF WORK

By Bradlee Locke

T

SEE AMERICA! 34 | PURSUIT

Illustration by Steven Anderson

he first day of kindergarten.

It was when your mother decided to abandon you in an unfamiliar place where you were forced to learn your colors, play on swing sets and drink juice boxes. Life was tough.

Then came elementary school, and you were introduced to writing papers that had to be two whole pages. But that was nothing compared to the papers you wrote in high school, and high school papers were nothing compared to college papers.

As some refer to it, “the years of no sleep” began and things spiraled out of control. Sleep was no longer routine but a privilege. Coffee became your new best friend, and homework piled high on your desk. After four years, most students will put on a cap and gown and walk on stage to accept their diploma while basking in the feeling of achievement. After being in school for 17 long years, a celebration seems to be in order.

“I’m tired of school,” says Alex Bernal, senior mathematics major. “I mean, I’ve been in school for 21 years,

and this is the end. That’s a reason to celebrate.”

A trend has begun among college seniors – a trip. After all, they have earned it with all of the schooling and lack of sleep they have been through. The only problem is finding the money to go on that senior trip.

Although a trend, a good number of students at California Baptist University are opting out of a senior trip because of high costs. Being a broke college kid, a $3,000 trip to Europe just does not seem plausible.

But there are alternatives.

Bernal plans to take this alternate route. A trip to either Las Vegas or San Diego is the cheaper way to go.

“If I go to Vegas, I would try to plan around going to a concert or a big show,” he says. “I don’t want to just go and lose all my money. San Diego would be more laid back, hanging out, doing nothing or going to the beach or something. San Diego would probably be cheaper, so it’s leaning more toward that. Plus it’s less driving time and more vacation time.”

Another senior, Meghan

Geoghegan, liberal arts major, plans to go somewhere where she has always wanted to go: Seattle.

Although she will be checking out a school there, celebrating is first on her list of priorities after graduation.

“I want to go on this trip for graduation because it would be a great way to celebrate with all the people that I love most,” Geoghegan says of her plans. “It is also fiscally manageable rather than taking a huge trip. I know that money is always tight, especially graduating and loans hitting and the real world starting.

So this is why I am choosing to do a smaller trip with my friends and family.”

Most college students do not have a lot of disposable income.

Simple things like going out to dinner or seeing the newest movies are sacrificed so their tuition is paid. Expensive senior trips are an expense that are not affordable to some. Cheaper and closer-to-home trips provide college graduates with affordable options for those not wanting to break the bank.

PURSUIT | 35

TRAVEL

C

S r e l e v a r T r aree

yn Fairfa

By Caitl

36 | PURSUIT

x

S

ome people dream of traveling around the globe for work, soaking up all the world has to offer and never settling for the ordinary nine to five cubicle job.

As students draw closer to graduation, the hunt for viable career paths and job opportunities impel aspiring professionals to make major lifedecisions.

Recent California Baptist University graduate, Mark Gomez, majored in journalism and media with a minor in history. When it came time to put his cap and gown on and walk across the stage, his dreams of working abroad came into reach.

Gomez is working as an English teacher in Ukraine. He felt a connection to the culture and people, so he knew this assignment was right for him.

“I was wanting to find an offer in the Eastern European region. These countries tend to be more particular by wanting at least 1-2 years of experience.

East Asian countries will take almost any Americans for work. I wanted to work in East Europe because I had visited the region and knew how to relate with the culture since the very first time I visited Romania in 2007,” Gomez said.

Some would jump at the opportunity to sojourn around the globe for work, but as with any other major decision or careermove, it is important to wait for the best opportunity.

“The hardest part is trying to find patience for the right offer. I found the offer to teach, work and live in the Ukraine after at least four months of checking job boards.

I will most likely be living and

working in the country’s capital, Kiev,” Cline who have found their dream-jobs Gomez says. no matter where they are.

While some students await their “Though (the company) hasn’t international career debut, others offered me a job yet … if they hire me, envision stateside grandeur, keeping they will most likely send me to New career ventures — at least a little bit — York to work on a several billion-dollar closer to home. bridge,” Cline say.

Christopher Cline, Initially, Cline was “Sojourning senior civil engineering excited to learn that travel major, is currently in the around the could become a regular part process of interviewing globe for work of his life. He has a passion with a heavy civil for experiencing other may be some engineering and cultures and feels his career student’s ideal will fit well into his current construction company on the East Coast for lifestyle and future goals. career Path” a multi-billion-dollar, Although Cline says he bridge-building project. is thrilled to be interviewing The travel possibilities are endless for for a position that is ideal for him now, someone in Cline’s chosen field. he does not plan on traveling for work Even from an early age, Cline knew forever. he was going to pursue a career that “For the initial part of my career I would involve something technical and definitely see myself traveling a lot, but as challenging. my career progresses I would eventually Cline has been fairly resolute in like to settle down in a set location so his decision to pursue a career in civil my family can have a place to call home,” engineering.

Cline said.

“Coming to CBU I wasn’t entirely sure (what I wanted to do) I just knew at that point engineering was best suited for my interests,” he says. “After looking into the various engineering fields, I realized I am most interested in tangible and largescale projects.”

Once Cline narrowed his expanse of career choices down to one — civil engineering — he was able to research further and reflect on past experiences to help guide him to his passion.

“A career in heavy civil engineering and construction is the right occupation for me, and I am sure of this because of the journey I have gone through to finding this career path. …nothing gets me more excited than large-scale projects that will impact human life directly,” Cline says.

The phrase “passion drives success” rings true for people such as Gomez and

Left photo: Christopher Cline Right Photo: Mark Gomez

Left Photo by Lisette Nichols Right Photo courtesy of Mark Gomez

No matter the geographical location, Gomez encourages students to keep their eyes open and begin searching for potential job opportunities during their senior year, or even earlier. He says he feels it is never too early to start preparing for the next step. On a more personal level, Cline urges students to examine their desires in life. He says once students decide what is important to them — regardless of difficulty — they should go for it and never doubt what they are doing.

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TRAVEL

“Went for a family reunion. This small city was really serene. The best part was the little paths in the city that led down to the beaches,” says Lindsey McCartin, freshman biology major.

By ALEX KORHELY-DAY

“You have to take a 20-minute ferry to the island and there are only about 20 different houses there, a huge hotel and plenty of fudge shops.

The only transportation is a bicycle,” says Aubree Worrell, senior early childhood studies major.

Ashland

“It was so lively. You could tell all of the tourists from the locals. Anywhere you go out there everyone has their camera out, such an exciting place to be,” says Regina Anaya, senior behavioral science major.

“It was a beautiful city that was very busy but at the same time extremely peaceful and humbling because of the surrounding nature and greenery,” says Jamie O’Brien, junior communication studies major.

“It is like you are walking into a Hansel and Gretel storybook, like a little Denmark. It is beautiful,” says Rebecca Bernard, junior sociology major.

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“A classic, true American city.

Words cannot describe it,” says Kimberely Howell, junior biology major.

To Kill a Mockingbird’ is based off this city, my hometown, and every year they host a play of the novel and people from all over the nation come to watch it in this small town,” says Amey Fenwick, junior early childhood studies major.

Illustration by Steven Anderson

Road Trip TIps

By Lauren Rios

Traveling across the country does not have to take such a toll on the bank account.

Consider a few money-saving tips to keep costs down.

“If I am staying for a few weeks, then I’ll usually give myself around $10 to $15 a day as well as pack my own food or plan to buy groceries when I arrive,” says Cassie Hanlin, sophomore anthropology and psychology double major.

Packing easy-to-make foods, like sandwiches, is great when visiting a new city.

They are quick, easy and will fit in a purse or backpack. Throw in some chips and a drink on the side to beat the midday hunger.

In most restaurants, lunch is less expensive than dinner. Lunchtime entrées are often the same as dinner, but come in smaller portions at a much cheaper price.

Hotels take a large chunk of a travel budget.By staying at the same hotels, reward points can be earned. By doing this, many “extras” are included, such as free breakfast, getting one night free and cheaper rates.

Students find ways to avoid overspending on vacation without compromising.

“Nonstop driving on freeways is a great way to save gas,” Hanlin says. “Also, carpooling is convenient when everyone pitches in for gas.”

Airborn allows travelers to access thousands of hotels or rooms for rent through their website or smart phone app. By typing in the destination, check in and out date and number of guests, a variety of options appears that best suites the traveler’s needs.

“Depending on where you go, you can try to stay at a relative’s house,” says Nicole Berry, junior psychology and sociology double major. “Look online for discounts on hotels, and always budget with the amount of money that you will be spending.”

There are many ways for CBU students to vacation at a reasonable price when they plan ahead.

PURSUIT | 39

TRAVEL

GEtting your passport

By Sharayah Le leux

A driver’s license equals a legal trip to Target whenever the urge strikes. A California Baptist University student identification card can score students a dinner with friends in the Alumni Dining Commons. A U.S. passport opens the door for citizens to travel the globe.

But how do you get one?

A U.S. passport is an internationally recognized travel document that is accepted for travel by air, land and sea that verifies a person’s identity and nationality.

First time international travelers must apply for passports in person. This can be done at a passport agency or acceptance facility. The closest passport agency is in Los Angeles. However, other approved facilities such as local post offices and libraries can process applications.

Before applying for a passport the Form DS-11: Application for a U.S. Passport must be filled out. Applicants must also have evidence of U.S. citizenship, identification, a photo copy of identification documents, a passport photo that has been taken within six months of the time of applying, as well as payment of a fee.

First time applicants for Adult Passport Books cost $135, which are comprised of a $110 application fee and a $25 execution fee. Adult Passport Cards are also available for $55, and together the Passport Book and Card cost $165. “(The process is) pretty simple; I had to pay to get it expedited because I waited until the last minute to get it before I’m studying abroad,” says Tracy M. Pallares, junior marketing major. “I had to pay extra to get it expedited.”

Once all of the required information has been submitted, the waiting process takes about four to six weeks.

Locations to apply for a passport can be found at travel.state.gov.

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MORE FOR YOUR MILES

By SARAH JANE O’KEEFE

When it comes to travel, the experienced explorer knows the ins and outs of everything from packing to finances, including the world of travel credit cards.

These nifty pieces of plastic do more than an average Visa or MasterCard by bringing rewards such as airline miles, cash and hotel stays. Buyer be cautious, as many come with annual fees, expiration dates on rewards, block-out dates and high-spending minimums.

While these catches may seem enough to turn any traveler away, there is hope. A little research can yield the perfect travel card for everyone from the once-in-a-while runaway, to the annual vacationer and even the always-going globe trotter.

Visa, Discover, American Express and Chase are front-runners of major credit card companies in the competition to provide travelers with bonus-laden cards. However, they are not alone as many airlines and hotels are now offering their own lines of credit.

Breakdown of a few cards: ■■ Case Sapphire Preferred – Perfect for the frequent traveler.

Cardholders earn 40,000 points after spending $3,000 in the first three months and are put on a point system where travel expenses earn two points for every dollar spent on travel and one point per dollar otherwise. This card has a $95 annual fee.

Illustrations by Steven Anderson

■■ Chase Sapphire – This is a little different than the preferred card and is better for a less frequent traveler. By spending $500 dollars in the first three months, cardholders earn 10,000 points. Every dollar spent on travel earns two points and other expenses one point per dollar. There are no limits or expiration on points, and no annual fee.

■■ Capital One Venture – Focuses on miles. Spending $1,000 within the first three months earns 10,000 miles. Cardholders earn two miles for every dollar spent and can earn an unlimited amount of miles that do not expire, but must pay an annual fee.

■■ Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards Premier – In association with Chase, this card’s points do not expire and allow travelers to spend points on international flights. Points per dollar vary based on purchase.

■■ Blue Sky from American Express – Highest reward percentage.

Cardholders who spend $1,000 in the first three months earn 7,500 points, and after that earn 1.33 percent per dollar spent. While there are no blackout dates or expiring points, there are restrictions on what points are spent on. No annual fee.

Picking a travel card requires serious time and research. The many variables create pitfalls and benefits for each card that need to be carefully considered before signing up.

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SPOTLIGHT

Shoes optional S beyond this point

Isaac Monroe

by kira kramer

Isaac Monroe takes advantage of natural training for a triathlon by running barefoot.

42 | PURSUIT

tumbling out of bed in the morning and through time. It took me ‘I like to think that God created the door before his eyes are really open, Isaac about two months to humans without shoes. Adam Monroe, junior public relations major, begins his get used to it. I was morning run. Wearing what he wore to bed, running without ever and Eve ran around barefoot, and Monroe only realizes he is running when he is letting my heels touch that’s what I want to do too.’ already half-way done. the ground. My calf -Isaac Monroe The first mile his heart is playing catch up with muscles definitely took the rest of his body, but then it is smooth sailing a beating, but eventually from there. All he feels are his toes digging into the I was able to ease back and ground below. learned to take small light Conditioning the body is a natural process for most people — steps instead of bigger, long strides.” preparing for functioning in the cold, for hiking, running, eating Being in the U.S. Army Reserve, Monroe has to train his body to healthy and reading. People teach themselves in many different ways, be ready for anything, including the conquering of pain. some more unique than others. Monroe is one of these particular “At first it was painful, but you just got to get over some form of people with a special way of training his body. pain, like stepping on rocks and building up calluses,” Monroe said.

One of the most uncommon ways of conditioning is Monroe’s Now the only thing Monroe worries about is the possibility of desire to train barefoot. shin-splints, also known as Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome. This is “I’ve been wearing the Vibram FiveFingers for over a year now, common for runners, but Monroe says even with the pain and threat but it was this previous summer that I started running barefoot,” of damaging his knees, he will always want to run. He says he believes Monroe says. “I wanted to take it another step further.” people can run their entire lives.

Vibram FiveFingers is advertised as a unique shoe that helps Through his new training routine, he was able to receive the protect users from knee pain and soreness, but allows them to have highest scores in his U.S. Army Reserve unit when tested. This trainthe gains of natural running and fitness training. These shoes coin ing has proved to be beneficial for him. He can now run farther and the name “FiveFingers” because of the design: looking like a foot, just faster with a higher level of endurance. His balance has also improved covered in cloth with a thick rubber sole for protection and grip on an because of the strengthening in the muscles of his feet. assortment of surfaces.

Monroe will not stop there. He sets his ambitions high.

Monroe used them to train the not-often-used muscles in his feet “I used to run track in high school, and now I’m planning on and calves before moving onto running barefoot. doing a marathon and after that a triathlon, and then maybe the Iron “It just strengthens your foot. The muscles in your feet don’t Man someday,” Monroe says. always get used and are forgotten about when wearing normal shoes,”

Tying into biblical knowledge, Monroe adds, “I like to think Monroe said. “It was definitely a completely different learning experithat God created humans without shoes. Adam and Eve ran around ence for me. Imagine running like you are jumping rope the entire barefoot, and that’s what I want to do, too.”

Photos by Jacob Armstrong

PURSUIT | 43

SPOTLIGHT

Confessions of a female engineering student

by Brianna Nelson

I

magine walking into a room full of highly intelligent men as one of the few females in the entire building and feeling the stares of critique as you walk toward a seat. You might be experiencing the first day of class as a female engineering student.

“The first day, when you walk in the building as a woman and see a bunch of guys, and you have no clue what is going on, it is just beyond intimidating,” says Alejandra Gastelum, junior civil engineering major.

Beyond the stares, these women also encounter unique experiences, relationships and conversations with the men of engineering.

“They notice details they don’t think we notice,” Gastelum said.

“Weird little things. They pay attention to what you write and how you write it; it’s interesting.”

Even more, the engineering men notice what the women wear.

“We just started wearing skirts and dresses every single Friday,” says Danielle Lynch, junior civil engineering major. “It wasn’t planned in the beginning. We didn’t originally tell any of the guys; they just kind of caught on. Even the guys we didn’t talk to that much who would sit behind us in class noticed. If we missed a Friday, they would ask why we weren’t wearing a dress.”

Despite the funny situations the women have with the engineering men, they are often met with mixed reactions outside of the College of Engineering.

“Shock and disbelief are the main reactions we get when we tell people we are engineering majors,” says Lynch.

Assumptions are often made about engineers, in general, especially the women.

44 | PURSUIT

“Around campus people assume we are so smart because we are engineering majors,” says Linneah Gomez, junior civil engineering major.

What these women are studying is not only intense for them, but it is also overwhelming for the people they meet.

“Guys are intimidated. I’ve had guys walk away from me when I tell them what I am studying,” Gastelum says. “When I go out, I don’t even want to tell people what I am doing because they will treat you so differently.”

Despite what the women experience outside of the College of Engineering, they say they would not give up the experiences or relationships for anything.

“When we first starting taking classes, we naturally pulled to other girls, but then we found each other,” Gomez says. “Eventually, we started getting comfortable and hung out with the guys.”

The women describe the engineering men as brotherly gentlemen.

Even men they do not know well treat the women with the utmost respect.

“I dropped a paper one day in the engineering library, but just ignored it and kept talking to whoever I was talking to,” Lynch says.

“This random freshman guy comes and picks it up and gives it to me and just keeps walking. It makes you feel really special, the way they treat you.”

The women credit the bonds they have made to the small class sizes in the program.

“Because it’s so small, and everyone knows one another, we are all so close,” Gomez says. “They become your family.”

Women are known for their unique conversations, but the engineering women explain that the men have their own interesting conversations, as well.

“When you are in a male-dominated field for so long, you start to hear conversations girls don’t normally hear,” Lynch says.

“You hear everything because they act like you are one of the guys.”

Their unique conversations are because of the close relationships they have with fellow students. From the absolutely adorable, to the overwhelmingly disgusting habits, the women explain they have seen all of the different sides of the men of engineering.

“We have been witness to pretty much everything,” Lynch says. “From talk about other girls to the guys sniffing their armpits, we just see and hear it all.”

The women explain they have even heard enormous amounts of complaining.

“Girls just don’t normally hear it. Guys are more discreet about it,” Lynch says.

But when the day ends, the engineering women know they cannot only count on each other, but the me, too.

“The guys will joke around and be slightly disrespectful, but when it comes down to it, we all respect each other — our cultures, our religions, our backgrounds, everything,” Lynch says.

The women explain engineering is so much more than the science and math they learn in the classroom; it is about the relationships, experiences and lessons they learn along the way.

“Civil (engineering) reminds me of life,” Gastelum says. “With a building, you have to have a fixed foundation. In life, you have to do that too; you have to be fixed on something. Whether it is what you believe in or anything else.”

In engineering, if the foundation isn’t perfect, then it is not going to stay. In life, if you are not rooted, then you’re not going to stand firm in anything you are going to do in life.”

Photo by Lisette Nichols

beauty more than skin deep by sharayah le leux

Glitzy gowns, high heels and a pile of textbooks can all be found in the room of a pageant-competing college student.

College is a diverse time in which students learn to live out their purposes while taking courses and participating in extracurricular activities. Finding time to balance classes, homework and friends can be difficult. Tack on a tiara and a pair of high heels and you have pageant participant.

Rikayah L. Crawford, sophomore communication studies major, was a tomboy growing up but after being encouraged by a neighbor when she was in high school decided to give pageantry a try.

“I didn’t know about the high heels, I didn’t know about all that. But I went for it, you know? I shared my story and my struggles and things of that nature and came out with the title and it’s been up hill ever since,” Crawford says.

Bianca L. Johnson, political science CBU alum, also began her pageantry career in high school and still continues pursuing titles as a college graduate. Johnson credits her interview skills, confidence and ability to balance her schedule that she used in school to her involvement in pageantry. “(Keeping everything balanced) was challenging but with the help and support of my parents and my brothers, I was able to get through it,” Johnson says.

Although competing in pageants is time consuming, it also allows women to develop skills in confidence, time

-management and speaking.

“I am very tall for a woman at 5-foot-9 and I used to hunch over to look smaller.

Being in pageants taught me to walk in high heels and be proud and stand out,” says Brooke L. Conlin, junior biology major. “It also greatly developed my public speaking skills and helped me to learn how to communicate with important people like mayors, business owners, etc., as I went to events as Miss Norco.”

The duties of a pageant competitor while in college add up leaving little to no free time. It is important to keep a balanced schedule so everything gets done.

“The process is, of course, nutrition, getting ready for if there is a swimsuit competition and even if there’s not a swimsuit competition, you want to look nice in your evening gown,” Crawford says.

However, there are times when academics and pageantry conflict and decisions must be made. Crawford holds the title of USA National Miss 2012 and is under contract to make appearances.

“I have to make a certain number of events, and with me having to do these events, mainly they take place during the weekend or in the evening; it was just conflicting schedules,” Crawford says.

The preparation for a pageant alone is time-consuming and can sometimes prove difficult to be able to give adequate attention to school work. Regardless, Johnson, Conlin and Crawford keep education a top priority.

“School is first and then everything else falls underneath. Work is a huge deal to me since I made a commitment I intend to honor it. Same as when I was holding a title, I always came to every event because I had made a commitment to my city and I knew I would be busy if I won,” Conlin says. “Every week is different, but I always make time to see those important to me: my family, boyfriend and roommates.”

As a pageant competitor, it is important to make sure to keep a balanced schedule and make sure everything on the busy list gets done.

PURSUIT | 45

SPOTLIGHT st

l a o g l a

n o s r e M p y m : k c a b g n i v i g

By Dayana ramirez

John Photo

Most photos will need captions, for now put filler text for editors to write them Dayana Ramirez takes in the prospects of her community service involvement.

46 | PURSUIT

y spirit of volunteerism was born the first day I walked into the classroom of my third grade teacher, Ms. Sacre. While I was only eight years old, being able to contribute and help with her duties was my passion.

From handing out paper and pencils during class to staying after school and decorating the white walls with students’ work and other decorations I made, I discovered I loved helping others.

As I grew older, I began involving myself in activities that would allow me to learn by giving and volunteering.

From helping organize events with my teachers during school to completing many hours of community service in different elementary and middle schools in my free time, I was always jumping from one activity to another.

Through volunteering, I learned different ways to be productive and as helpful. This was my way of showing my faith in Christ, implementing my spirit of volunteering so people could see through my actions how I tried to follow in his footsteps.

College was no different. When I found out there were no clubs on campus that showcased demonstrating love for Christ through contributions to society, I founded the FAITH club. The club stands as an

acronym: Faith, Action, Integrity, Together with our Heritage.

The club is based on community service, allowing students to take the time to contribute to society and demonstrate their faith through their actions. Through the club, we are able to care for society, displaying what we are individually called to do.

While there are other opportunities to reach out on campus, such as Urban Excursion, United States Projects and International Service Projects, these groups are more focused on serving nationally and globally rather than impacting directly the city in which we reside.

My inspiration to start the FAITH club began when I was a part of the Octagon Club

‘This was my way of showing my faith in Christ, implementing my spirit of volunteering.’ in high school, a community service club.

Many activities we participate in as a club at the university are inspired by the activities we engaged with as part of the Octagon Club.

Volunteering is not an easy task. You have to go out of your way, and set time aside to be a part of many activities, but in the end it is all worth it. When we see that our streets are cleaner; more students are going to college because they have a mentor to help them with the application process, or when we see that instead of being involved in gang activities, many teenagers are participating in outdoor activities everything falls into place.

The many lives we are able to impact through our actions is what makes volunteering all the more special. You must want to accomplish it on your own since you are not receiving a paycheck for your services.

It is something I believe Christ has called us all to do, to not only help our communities be a better place to live but also exercise our faith.

Photos by Jessica Bills

Generation to

graduate

By cristin massey

M

y hands were sweaty as I walked up to the Wallace Book of Life Theatre. I took one last look into the mirror as I walked through the door. To my right, black gowns hung on a rolling clothing rack. To the left was a line of students waiting; just beyond that, in front of me, was a photographer snapping portraits. It was now my time; the year I have waited and worked so hard for, the year I graduate from college. Nervous excitement was responsible for my sweaty palms.

I am making history. Not the kind that matters to the world, nor the kind of history that will make any sort of social dent. It is the kind of history that will take place this May on the front lawn of California Baptist University. I will be the first person in my family to graduate from college.

Growing up, college was not something that seemed like an option. Humble means allowed ‘Though my parents my parents to be crucially did not go to college honest with me, even at a very themselves, they young age.

Going have been such an to college meant that I amazing source of would have to figure out how to support.’ pay for it myself.

Once I was in high school, it seemed like that was the end to my education.

I remember thinking that college was out of my reach and not something that I would be able to accomplish. It was not until I got a little older that I really understood the value of higher education and the tenacity that lived inside of me to achieve this dream that I have.

Being the first to do anything is not easy. I found myself navigating unchartered waters; I had no one to go to for advice. However, I found the motivation that kept me going was about changing the history of my family. I wanted to leave a better legacy behind me and make a change for my children and hopefully be a strong influence for my younger sisters.

As the oldest, it is natural for me that I feel a sense of responsibility to my sisters.

From generation to generation, life and its opportunities change.

What makes the difference from one to the next is the tenacity and willingness to change the cycle.

Regardless of the reasons, I will be the first to graduate college.

PURSUIT | 47

SPOTLIGHT

bats Professor shares memories of bathunting, and international cave exploration

D

uring our interview, Dr. Arthur G. Cleveland, professor of environmental science and former vice president for both institutional advancement and dean of research, had about 10 or so bats spread out on his office table. All were able to remind him of a time in his past. As he would pick up each bat, he would read the tag and a smile would break across his face.

The bats ranged from over a foot to under six inches in length and came in different colors and patterns. His large, executive office sits above Wanda’s Cafe,

overlooking the courtyard of California Baptist University.

During our interview, he held up one of the rarest species of animals in the world — the spotted bat. He reflected on the night he found it.

Being able to sit down and talk to someone about their life is something that many of us have the opportunity to do every day. Although, to hear a man almost say that if he died tomorrow, he would have lived a completely fulfilled life, is not something many would be able to say.

Cleveland is known for his work in environmental science and his charismatic approach on mentoring graduate students.

Though he considers his late professional mentor, Karl Koopman of the Mammalogy Department at the American Museum of Natural History in New York, the bat expert, CBU classifies this mammalogist as its own “bat expert.”

Cleveland reflected upon his research and excursions, giving insight into such a unique and interesting career with passion.

Beginning in 1984, Cleveland was given the opportunity to travel to southern China where his interest in bats grew because of the lack of information known about them at the time.

Between 1984 and 1996, Cleveland

backpacked all over the western and southern parts of China on a mission to help save and protect endangered bats throughout those regions.

He worked closely with the Chinese government and their department of ecology to try to do more to protect not only bats but many other small rodent species.

His graduate students traveled with him all over southern and central America as well as where he was able to impact those students’ lives. Cleveland explained that one of his students has become a pediatric doctor because of the trips they had taken together.

Cleveland talked about a particular trip he took with graduate students in Mexico where he was bitten by a bat while wearing gloves but because their teeth were are so sharp, he did not know he was bitten until after he took his glove off and saw the blood.

“The students laughed at me saying that they were going to keep a wooden cross around on a moonlit night,” Cleveland says joking.

The New Mexican Fish and Wild Life Service gave him 24 hours to net a bat.

“They laughed at us,” he said. “Few had ever been able to actually catch one and the park ranger had been working on catching one for decades.”

Left: Dr. Cleveland in his office showcasing his bat collection Right: Dr. Cleveland exiting from a cave in 2005 in Georgia Far Right: Dr. Cleveland holding a bat in Peru along the Amazon River in 2004 on a research trip

Left: Photo by Lisette Nichols Right: Photos courtesy of Arthur Cleveland

He and his students only had a matter of hours left on their permit when they caught the rare bat. Cleveland said the park ranger did not seem to happy that they had caught one so quickly.

When Cleveland talked about the students he had mentored, he was able to recall their name, physical description and their current occupation. His eyes glossed over when he talked about how many students had contacted him years later, explaining that he had forever changed their lives.

Most of his time is spent now off the field, reviewing journals and manuscripts for publishers and professors.Currently, he is working with the state of Georgia and its department of transportation on how to better design and dissemble bridges to make them more bat-friendly.

The bats he has caught can be found on display at CBU and other prestigious institutions, such as Harvard University and the Smithsonian Institute.

Through his own life, he explains he always has been employed, but he never felt he was getting paid to do a job, but to do something he loved. He stressed that having a job that you love doing is important, but not as important as being around those who you love.

Pursuit Magazine

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