Bulldog Survival Guide 2016 - A Tech Talk Special Edition by The Tech Talk

Bulldog S U R V I V A L

G U I D E

THE TECH TALK / SPECIAL EDITION / FALL 2016

Traditions INSIDE

TECH

FROM SHAVING HEADS TO TOSSING MEDALLIONS, TECH HAS HAD MANY TRADITIONS OVER THE YEARS

PAGE 15

TECH PRESIDENTS SPEAK OUT

LaTech president Les Guice and SGA president Mackenzie Potts discuss their hopes for the school year. PAGE 5

Athletes to Watch

Make sure to keep an eye out for these LA Tech student athletes. PAGE 18

Stomach Growling? Let us point you in the right direction to satisty your stomach and palate. PAGE 3

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2 • Bulldog Survival Guide • Fall 2016

fter three months, another summer has come and gone, and the students of Louisiana Tech have returned to reality.

If you’re new, welcome to Louisiana Tech.

I hope this place becomes home for you as quickly as it became home for me. You’ll make friends and memories here that will last a lifetime. For everyone taking summer classes, LETTER congrats because you made it. Your FROM long, dark nightmare THE is over. EDITOR To everyone else coming back from break, it is time to get back in the routine of studying and waking up at a decent hour. The beauty of this time of year is that classes starting brings much more than all-nighters and endless supplies of coffee. It brings a host of things that make Tech, and Ruston in general, a place I could not imagine my life without. When I realized I had to write this message, I thought about my college career as I enter my senior year of school. What will I do after graduation? Will I jump right into the workforce or could I go for my master’s degree? Every college student has asked themselves at least one of these questions at one point in their four plus years of school. Honestly, the more I think, the more I have absolutely no idea how to answer. That seems to be a part of typical college life. When I actually sat down and started writing this letter, I went through every cliché saying and quote I could think of that

could possibly help you as you start or continue this great journey. Instead of telling you something you have probably already heard before from a mass of friends and family as you left home, I figured past experiences would convey my point the best. I transferred to Tech after my freshman year from a small private school in the middle of the state. While I am extremely grateful for my time there and the things I learned as a freshman, I have no regrets about leaving. While I was there, I went to class, worked and hung out with friends occasionally. Otherwise, I kept to myself. Coming to Tech allowed me a chance to restart. I immediately got involved in a local church, started writing for The Tech Talk and played intramurals. That being said, to every student in Ruston, the freshmen and upperclassmen alike, do not waste your years at school and do not take what we have for granted. It will all be over in a flash. Get involved and leave something more at this school than just a brick in the ground with your name on it. Leave a legacy. College is supposed to be the greatest time of our young lives so enjoy every moment.

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4 • Bulldog Survival Guide • Fall 2016

FACT IN FICTION

The

Tech Talk

Find your Ron (or Hermione)

MANAGEMENT EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

CALEB DANIEL Managing Editor | csd020@latech.edu

Matthew Valcho

MANAGING EDITOR Caleb Daniel

NEWS EDITOR

Blake Branch

SPORTS EDITOR

Matthew Valcho

ADVISERS

T. Scott Boatright Dr. Judith Roberts Dr. Reginald Owens

ADVERTISING ADVISER Michael LeBlanc

PRODUCTION MANAGER Michael LeBlanc

ADVERTISING PRODUCTION Michael LeBlanc

SUBSCRIPTIONS Tech Talk subscriptions are $25 a year. Mail to: Tech Talk Subscrip tions, P.O. Box 10258, Ruston, LA 71272.

love a good story. Whether in books, movies, video games or comics, a well-told story can draw me into it until I almost believe it’s real. Part of my passion for stories comes from the idea that the good ones, no matter how fantastical, convey messages of real-world significance inside their fictional packaging. These insightful glimpses of reality inside imaginary worlds are the focus of my Fact In Fiction columns, and this time I finally get to write about one of my favorite topics: the wizarding world of Harry Potter. The world of J.K. Rowling’s bestselling series is making yet another comeback. The script of the London play “Harry Potter and the Cursed Child” hit the shelves in book form in July, and the blockbuster “Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them” will be released in November. Through seven years of magical adven-

tures, Harry Potter slayed giant snakes, outsmarted dragons and defeated the greatest dark wizard of all time. However, as Harry himself said in book 5, “I nearly always had help.” Hermione Granger and Ronald Weasley are two of the most brilliant, stalwart and fiercely loyal friends a young wizard could ask for. Without Hermione’s vast knowledge and Ron’s stubborn determination, Harry would not have even made it through one book. Every time he had a vision of Voldemort, every time he learned some disturbing news while eavesdropping under his Invisibility Cloak, every time he felt like falling under the weight of being The Boy Who Lived, Harry Potter reacted the same way. He went to his friends. He told them everything. He trusted them to take care of him. He held on to their friendship as an anchor from the terror of being hunted by darkness. This fall, a new school year begins at

Louisiana Tech. For many students, this will be their first year away from home. To those students, I cannot give you any greater advice than this: Find true friends. Find that Weasley or Granger that will stand by you no matter the circumstances. Once you find them, do not let them go for anything. There is no greater resource in life than people who love you. At all points in life, ask yourself the question, “If tragedy struck my life right now, who would I go to?” If you do not immediately have an answer, remember Harry Potter and fix that. As you enter the fall quarter this year, keep your friends close. Confide in them. Love them. Do not let them drift away. And if the school ever needs saving from Dark Magic (or homework), you will know who to call. Caleb Daniel is a junior journalism major from Lake Charles who serves as managing editor for The Tech Talk.

PUBLICATION The Tech Talk (USPS 535540) is published Thursdays of the regu lar school year, except in vacation and examination periods, by the Journalism Department of Loui siana Tech University. Publication office is in Keeny Hall, Room 138.

POSTAL Secondclass postage paid at Ruston, La. Postmaster: Send address changes to The Tech Talk, P.O. Box 10258, Ruston, LA 71272.

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TAKE IT FROM BLAKE

The road starts here BLAKE BRANCH News Editor | mbb029@latech.edu

new crop of Bulldogs are about to arrive on campus, confused, intimidated and maybe even a little scared. College can be a tough, winding road to finding one’s self, especially if you do not have any help along the way. My time at Louisiana Tech has been special to say the least. I’ve become a better person because of the people I have crossed paths with along this twisted journey toward self-discovery. Whether it was professors such as Paul Nelson making everyday interesting, the (recent) struggle of summer math class or putting in the mad hours to make deadline for The Tech Talk (even more recent), academics have certainly been a key part of my Tech experience. But they were hardly the only one.

There were friends made during late-night study sessions in Wyly and while working double shifts at Ponchatoula’s. There were questionable decisions made in the early morning hours post-Revelry (and San Miguel, but I don’t expect you incoming freshmen to feel me on that one), Bulldog football games in the student section of Joe Aillet Stadium, basketball games in the Thomas Assembly Center, casual strolls through the campus delivering mail as a student-worker and so much more I can not tell you or forgot about. Becoming a Bulldog was the best decision I ever made, and as you all prepare for the unknown of a new year, new people and new places, I challenge the incoming freshmen of this university to carry the banner for what this school is all about. Get involved. Take risks. Join organizations and clubs. Go out on a Wednesday. Pack the TAC. Talk to strangers. Fall in love. Walk

across campus. Take it all in. Your time here will be brief, unless you are like me, in which case you still probably won’t feel as if you’ve done enough. What binds our tight-knit Tech family together are the moments we share. I have experienced this first-hand with my Tech Talk family, a group of people that know too much about me and vice-versa. They’ve seen me at my cranky, foul-mouthed worst and helped me through both school and personal struggles. I am proud to walk the same path as these dear friends. Incoming Bulldogs, I encourage you to find YOUR path, start walking and never look back. You’ll find the roads of Ruston are paved with possibility. Blake Branch is a senior journalism major from Minden who serves as news editor for The Tech Talk

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR The Tech Talk welcomes letters to the editor. However, we reserve the right not to print anonymous letters. We also ask that each letter be accompanied by a telephone number, address and classification or title. We will not print the telephone number. Viewpoints should be mailed or brought to The Tech Talk office, 138 Keeny Hall, by 4 p.m. the Friday prior to a Thursday publi cation. Letters should be mailed to The Tech Talk, P.O. Box 10258, Ruston, LA 71272. Emails should be sent to techtalk@latech.edu. You can also submit letters online at www.thetechtalk.org/home/ lettertotheeditor/.

Louisiana Tech University is com mitted to the principle of provid ing the opportunity for learning and development of all qualified citizens without regard to race, sex, religion, color, national origin, age, disability, marital status, or veteran status for admission to, participation in, or employment in the programs and activities which the University sponsors or operates. For Title IX information, see University Policy #1445 at http://www.latech. edu/administration/policiesand procedures/1445.shtml.

GUEST COLUMN

Non-Traditionally Speaking JOHN STACK Staff Reporter | jes062@latech.edu

f you were to ask an 18-year-old if he likes college, the people, the parties, the girls, the freedom and he replied, “Yes! I love it!” His tone would take a turn if you then added, “Good thing, you’ll still be here in 20plus years.” If this sounds like the opening of a joke, it is not. I was that kid. It’s not that the work was onerous, although at times it was consuming; focus was the problem. A flood of new sights and sounds and sensations inundated my senses and I forgot why I was there to begin with. That was 1995. Fast forward to 2014. As the years progress we perceive what matters to us and what does not. Priorities change. I realized in my mid-30s that there were certain things that I would like to have. A few years before returning to school I began to study the areas that appealed to me. I had it in my mind those smart, younger students who, just out of school, were sharp as razors would surround me and, while not making me appear foolish, would reveal me for the fool I really was. I also had it in my mind that the professors, on the exams, were

going to try to trick me. I was mistaken. The professors, it turned out, genuinely want to help students and upon being solicited for help are all too happy to provide it. There has been no exception to this; I have been very fortunate. The students who are industrious and apply themselves are far smarter than I was at their age and I’ve found them to be equally glad to help others in any way that they could. It has been amazing. With both, it seems, they sensed direction, and have been glad to help along the way. Fourteen months ago I started making hot sauce for my friends; a business professor tried it and jokingly said I should start selling it. Eight months later we were standing outside of a bottling plant. He is now the director of marketing. One of my fellow students who helped me in any way that she could in classes was studying to be a CPA. She’s a very smart, kind and pretty woman who loves numbers and since day one has said she believed in me and would support me however she could. She is now the head accountant for the business. These things happened as a direct result

not only of being in school, but being there with an agenda. During my sophomore year, for an English final, the class had to write individual essays on Pop Icons. I thought this was a silly subject, expressed as much to the professor, but nevertheless could follow instructions. Two weeks later I turned it in; the professor started laughing. She said in all her years she’d never read anything of the like, and that I should publish it. I did. I went home that afternoon, submitted it to a contest for a literary anthology in Colorado, and was published that fall. The reason that I share this is that I am living proof that anyone can do this. It is not because things are difficult that we do not dare; it is because we do not dare that they are difficult. When asked to write this, I was reluctant to do so, but decided to for one reason above all others to have the chance to publicly say this: To all of you who have helped along the way, and that’s a very long list, I just wanted to say thank you. John Stack is a non-traditional journalism student who serves as a staff reporter for The Tech Talk.

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Fall 2016 • Bulldog Survival Guide • 5

A letter from President Les Guice Louisiana Tech Bulldogs and Lady Techsters, Welcome to what is sure to be an exciting and memorable 2016-2017 school year at Louisiana Tech University! For our incoming freshman and newest members of the Tech family, congratulations on becoming part of a top tier, nationally-recognized research university with a rich tradition in academics, athletics, student life, and community service. For our returning students, it’s great to have you back on the Tech campus and look forward to the leadership that you will be providing for our student body. Together, we are all looking forward to continuing the excellence and traditions that make Louisiana Tech the special place that it is. Among the most important traditions that define Louisiana Tech are the Tenets of Tech – twelve guiding principles that exemplify the personal qualities that Tech students should possess during and after their college careers. The Tenets of Tech are Confidence, Excellence, Commitment, Knowledge, Integrity, Respect, Leadership, Loyalty, Enthusiasm, Caring, Hope, and Pride. I would like to challenge each of you to commit to these Tenets and to use them

as a personal guide for representing your family, your friends, and your university. I am deeply honored to serve as your president and commit to you the support of our administration, faculty, and staff. Our priority is YOU and we will be here to support you throughout your college career at Louisiana Tech. For campus updates and information, and features about Louisiana Tech and its people, feel free to follow me on Twitter at @lkguice and visit my blog at http://guiceblog.latech. edu. I’m also available to you via email at guice@ latech.edu. I wish each of you the best of luck this year and look forward to seeing you around campus.

GO BULLDOGS AND LADY TECHSTERS! Sincerely,

President Les Guice

Meet your SGA president: Mackenzie Potts LACY CAMP Staff Reporter | lmc074@latech.edu Each year the Louisiana Tech University Student Government Association elects new leaders from the student body to serve as the official voice of Louisiana Tech. Having been sworn into office on May 3, Mackenzie Potts now holds the position as SGA president for the upcoming school year. “I am really looking forward to serving as president,” said Potts, a senior human resource management major. “I want to serve the best I can and see Tech constantly become better.” Potts has formerly filled the positions of freshman senator, executive board secretary and director of public relations. “When I was in high school, I was involved in student council,” Potts said. “When I came to Tech, I met some SGA members, and they told me about everything they do, so my freshman year I decided to join and loved it since.” Potts is also a part of Kappa Delta, student recruiters and Tech Leadership Council. “With everything that I

do, my grandmother has considering joining SGA, been a big influence on Potts said there are two me,” Potts said. “She taught ways to get started. at Ruston High and was a “One way is through big leader in the commu- TLC.” Potts said. “It’s all nity. She really taught me focused on the first year about morals and how it’s leadership. The second really important to stay true way is by running for freshto those morals in any posi- man senator, where you tion you hold.” will be working Tech presi- “I want to with the SGA dent Les Guice vice president is also a mentor serve the best on writing bills of Potts. and work on I can and see “He works projects across directly with me Tech constantly campus.” and I get to meet become Potts said up with him better.” any idea a peronce a month son can think about what’s goof could posing on around MACKENZIE sibly be turned campus and POTTS into a bill. SGA President about Tech’s fu“Freshture,” Potts said. men also get “He holds all the tenets of to serve on committees,” Tech, which he is very true Potts said. “They could be to. He leads faculty and stu- on Common Read and pick dents very well.” the book that the freshmen With the fall quarter will be reading and get to starting, Potts encourages sit on committees that can incoming freshmen to get help better Tech.” involved in a group on camEven if it is not the pus. SGA, Potts urges incoming “Find an organization freshmen to find and join a that you seem to fit in at,” group that interests them. Potts said. “We’re really big “School is more than on being a Tech family so what you just learn in the there is something to of- classroom,” Potts said. fer for everyone. I really “You have to develop your encourage freshmen to get outside skills and you can involved right off the bat.” do that by being part of an For freshmen who are organization.”

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6 • Bulldog Survival Guide • Fall 2016

TALKBACK

WHAT TO WATCH ON

What is your go-to Netflix show? “‘GILMORE GIRLS’. IT JUST MAKES ME HAPPY. IT’S ALSO RELATABLE BECAUSE RORY IS IN COLLEGE.” KESI TURNER senior

“‘I LOVE PARKS AND REC’ BECAUSE IT’S REALLY FUNNY” BAILEY THIBODEAUX senior

“‘NEW GIRL’. ZOOEY DESCHANEL IS HILARIOUS” HANNAH WHITTEN senior

“‘THE OFFICE’. IT’S AN OVER EXAGGERATION OF HOW PEOPLE IN THE WORKPLACE ACT” KYLE FISCHER senior

“‘BREAKING BAD’. I LIKE THE STORY LINE IT FOLLOWS AND IT’S NEW WITH EACH EPISODE.” STEPHANIE GREEN graduate student

“‘PSYCH’. IT’S FUNNY BUT IT ALSO MAKES YOU THINK AT THE SAME TIME.” SETH SCRIBER senior

STAFF REPORT The wear and tear of a normal school year can drive any average student into the depths of insanity. Thankfully, Netflix has become one of the most important tools in a college student’s arsenal of tricks to keep from losing their minds. If you currently find yourself in a terrifying “show hole” and have no idea what to add to your queue next, check out these shows:

One Tree Hill “One Tree Hill” is a series for a wide variety of people. This show brings its viewers to tears, laughter, stress, anger and even fear. Created by Mark Schwahn, “One Tree Hill” first premiered in 2003 and aired for nine seasons. A few stars in the show are Sophia Bush, Chad Michael Murray, Bethany Joy Lenz and James Lafferty. The show is about family, friends, forgiveness, and the struggles that high schoolers, post-college adults, and parents go through. Unlike most shows surrounding this generation, “One Tree Hill” has a more realistic take on high school, with added drama to keep it interesting. Taking place and filmed in North Carolina, the first season centers on brooding writer Lucas Scott and bad boy basketball star Nathan Scott. They are half-brothers who despise each other but are forced to put aside their differences when Lucas joins the varsity basketball team. Viewers will not only witness the betrayal of friends and family, but they’ll see the realistic and inspirational ways the characters get through those harder times. Within the first season viewers find themselves emotionally attached to the characters. Not only are the plots of each season interesting, but the music is as well. They showcase an assortment of artists through every season. “One Tree Hill” is filled with life lessons and fans grow to truly care for the characters. - Chelsea Billups, Staff Reporter

American Horror Story One of the few anthology horror drama series on television, “American Horror Story” is a popular show choice for many on Netflix, where four seasons of the ongoing series is available. It continues to air on FX. The brainchild of Glee co-creators Ryan Murphy and Brad Falchuk, the series first aired in October 2011. Each season has a different theme from the last with a subtle continuous commonality through all seasons. So far there have been five different themes: Murder House, Asylum, Coven, Freak

Show and Hotel. Because it is an anthology series, seasons can be watched out of order. Though each season is technically different from the last, they all share the characteristics of being creepy, odd, and intriguing. The first season, “Murder House”, is about a family moving into new house that is haunted with the spirits of people who died in it. Murphy and Falchuk have no limits with this show: ghosts, demon possessed Nuns, resurrection of the dead, men with lobster hands, and a woman whose diet consists of blood (not to be confused with a vampire). Many recognizable actors and actresses have been cast in the series. A few are Evan Peters, Lady Gaga, Emma Roberts, Kathy Bates and Connie Britton. The season 6 premiere episode will be aired at 9 p.m., Sept. 14. - Chelsea Billups, Staff Reporter

ON OUR

RADAR • NETFLIX

HERE’S SOME OTHER SHOWS ON NETFLIX WE ENJOY:

A RUTHLESS POLITICIAN AND HIS WIFE WILL STOP AT NOTHING TO CONQUER WASHINGTON, D.C., IN THIS EMMY AND GOLDEN GLOBE-WINNING POLITICAL DRAMA.

Parks and Recreation “Parks and Recreation” is the perfect “I’ve had a rough day of classes and I just need to watch something good” television show. Through the course of seven memorable seasons, it will sweep you along through countless laughs and surprisingly touching emotion. “Parks and Rec” tells the story of Leslie Knope (Amy Poehler) and her coworkers in city government as she tries to make Pawnee, Indiana, a better place, despite its many unique challenges. Each character, and even the city itself, goes through gradual and immense changes as the seasons unfold, but none of them ever stops being hilarious. The humor in “Parks and Rec” is a relatable humor. The show simply makes observations about the real world and exaggerates them to a ridiculous level. Each character is an exaggerated form of someone you know in real life. Leslie Knope is the ambitious, overzealous, embarrassing friend you never asked for and can’t help but love. Andy Dwyer (Chris Pratt) is the dimwitted, adorable teddy bear you knew in high school. There’s something for everyone: a stuck-in-my-ways conservative (Nick Offerman), a fitness fanatic (Rob Lowe), an uber-nerd (Adam Scott), a sadist (Aubrey Plaza) and a self-absorbed little man who thinks he’s a baller (Aziz Ansari). The appeal of “Parks and Rec” goes far beyond the main characters. The entire town is the stage for this show. Dozens of recurring minor characters throughout all walks of Pawnee life will have you smiling every time they make an appearance. “Parks and Rec” comes at you through Netflix in fun, 21-minute, bitesize pieces, perfect for binge watching. So next time school has you down, stay down, on the couch and watch “Parks and Rec”. Then, next time you visit the Tech cafeteria, ask them for all the bacon and eggs they have. - Caleb Daniel, Managing Editor

THIS CLASSIC SITCOM FOLLOWS THE MERRY MISADVENTURES OF SIX 20-SOMETHING PALS AS THEY NAVIGATE THE PITFALLS OF WORK, LIFE AND LOVE IN 1990S MANHATTAN.

SUAVE, SOPHISTICATED SPY ARCHER MAY HAVE THE COOLEST GADGETS, BUT HE STILL HAS ISSUES IN THIS ANIMATED QUICK-WITTED PARODY OF CLASSIC SPY MOVIES.

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Fall 2016 • Bulldog Survival Guide • 7

‘Love of wisdom’ returns to Tech JOHN STACK Staff Reporter | jes062@latech.edu After 25 years Tech has finally acquired a doctor of philosophy whose credentials certainly warrant the title. Dr. Dan Sportiello was a lecturer in philosophy at Santa Clara University where he taught courses in theoretical and applied ethics. Before Santa Clara, Sportiello was a graduate student in philosophy at the University of Notre Dame and a Graduate Fellow at the Notre Dame Institute for Advanced Study. He will be in Ruston for the beginning of the fall. “We’ve not had philosophy in the regular curriculum, though we teach it sometimes in the honors programs,” said Donald Kaczvinsky, dean of the College of Liberal Arts. “I’ve personally taught foundation, and the students who have attended those classes always loved them. It’s great we can offer it now to all.” He also studied under Alasdair MacIntyre, the

eminent Scottish philosopher and writer primarily known for his contribution to moral and political philosophy but also known for his work in history of philosophy and theology. Kaczvinsky said Tech is lucky to have Sportiello. At Tech, Sportiello will be teaching two philosophy classes (Introduction and Ethics) and head up the university’s Interdisciplinary SPORTIELLO Studies Program, Kaczvinsky said. “I try to teach students how the various disciplines relate to one another—or, rather, how to tackle the interminable task of relating them to one another,” Sportiello said. “For the philosophical task never really ends; this, I suppose, is why we call it not ‘wisdom’ but rather ‘the love of wisdom.’” The philosophical task never really ends, it seems,

because it is the study of the human condition in its entirety. This means, by the way, that everyone is already a philosopher: By virtue of being human, each of us tackles the two fundamental philosophical questions — who we are and who we ought to be — every day of our lives. The value of studying philosophy is to do this more reflectively: A course in philosophy should give us the tools to make sense of our lives — which, even with all of the knowledge available on the internet, remains as hard as ever, he said. “Of course, in a society more and more saturated in corporate and political slogans, studying philosophy is also a matter of freedom — there are many who would like to make their own sense of our lives for us and tell us what to buy, how to vote, and so on,” Sportiello said. He added that studying philosophy should give us the tools to question all of this — in other words, to think for ourselves. “That is no small thing,” he said.

Professors share tips for success in class CHELSEA BILLUPS Staff Reporter | cdb082@latech.edu Most students who go to college have the desire to succeed, but teachers know well that success in the classroom is not guaranteed. A few teachers from various colleges in the university have shared some tips they believe will help the incoming freshmen succeed in the classroom. Lisa Merritt, a speech communication instructor, said to emphasize class attendance. “Go to class; teachers notice when you skip,” Merritt said. “Teachers are more likely to bump your grade up if you attend class, and go to office hours to get

to know them.” Merritt said the teacher’s office hours are just as important for getting to know a teacher as they are for actual help in the class. In fact, she says office visits are one of the things she looks at when deciding whether or not to bump students a couple points away from a higher grade. Bryan McCoy, head of the department of curriculum, instruction and leadership, said he also recommends visiting a professor’s office. “Ask for help right away; if you don’t, you’ll get behind,” McCoy said. “Asking for help early helps you to avoid problems such as bad GPA and dropping classes.” McCoy said it is better to be proac-

tive in getting help in a class instead of waiting until right before the final to seek help from a teacher. Samantha Martin, a doctoral student in psychology, said teachers often present opportunities for the class to get ahead or do well, but it’s up to the students to take advantage of them. “Talk with your teacher if you’re struggling,” Martin said. “If teachers offer reviews in the office before tests, take the them up on the offer.” Sometimes missing class is unavoidable. Martin said this is when it comes in handy to have a friend. “Get to know someone in class so you can get notes and other class information,” she said.

Michelle Jimmerson, an English instructor at Tech, said students must learn to adjust to the college schedule. “Set aside time each day for classwork whether a particular class is meeting that day or not,” Jimmerson said. “Many students have trouble with the transition from a high school schedule to a college schedule, so I advise students to establish a daily study routine.” Jimmerson also had advice for students outside the classroom. “Get involved in campus life,” she said. “Join a club, attend a sports event, meet friends for meals or study sessions.” Jimmerson went on to say the college years go by fast, but the memories made will last forever.

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8 • Bulldog Survival Guide • Fall 2016

Things I wish I knew Upperclassmen give advice to freshmen on things to remember when starting out at Louisiana Tech HALEY REGISTER Staff Reporter | har005@latech.edu

make the same grades you did in high school.” Courtney Stepp, a junior When starting the first marketing major, said she year of college right after urges new college students graduating high school, stu- to avoid being so focused dents may not know what to on the future that they forget expect. Many college fresh- the present. “I wish as a freshman men find that they have to make some big adjustments I would have known that in order to handle all of the education is the most important, but not the only imchanges from high school. Some current and past portant thing,” Stepp said. Louisiana Tech students “I focused and worried so have some advice for this much on school that I forgot to just enjoy being at Tech. year’s freshmen. “Just because you han- You have to find a good and healthy baldled classes at ance between 7:45 a.m. in high school and school, doesn’t having a life mean that you — because can handle 8 studying for a a.m. classes evtest is imporery day in coltant, but so is lege,” said Shay your sanity.” Riptoe, a former Many stuTech student. dents, like “Take that into senior math c o n s i d e r at i o n major Ethan when registering Cash, will for your classes.” experience The differstruggles and ences between CASH will have to high school and adjust in orcollege were a big adjustment for Riptoe, der to handle the demands who said she was over- of college. “I wasn’t expecting it to whelmed during her first be so hard to be away from quarter at Tech. “Be sure to take advan- home,” Cash said. “I didn’t tage of the 24-hour com- fully realize how big of a puter lab on campus,” she change it was going to be said. “Studying is extremely for my mother and for myimportant if you expect to self until I was settled into

my new apartment.” Maggie Torbet, a senior with a double major in graphic design and studio art, said she was not as aware of scholarship opportunities as she should have been. “I wish I knew how to find scholarships that were available to me, rather than having to use loans,” Maggie Torbet said. There are many scholarships available to all sorts of students if they just ask questions and do some research. Torbet said freshmen should apply to every scholarship they think they may qualify for. Amanda Stogsdill, who graduated from Tech with a psychology degree in May, said many students will change their mind about what they want to study in college. “I wish I had known that you don’t always know what you want to major in right away,” Stogsdill said. “You may change your mind and lose your passion for what you originally choose.” Stogsdill said she learned a valuable lesson once she finally realized that Greek life is not for everyone. “You can’t force yourself to fit in with people,” she said. “You have to try things out and figure out where you really belong.”

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Fall 2016 • Bulldog Survival Guide • 9

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10 • Bulldog Survival Guide • Fall 2016

Poké-Mania: old craze reborn CALEB DANIEL Managing Editor | csd020@latech.edu

In July 2016, creatures from another world invaded our reality. “Pokemon Go,” a location-based augmented reality game featuring the creatures from the beloved Nintendo franchise, was downloaded to more than 100 million mobile devices around the world. The game, developed and published by Niantic, employs the GPS and camera technology in a smartphone to make creatures called Pokemon appear on-screen as though they were in the real world. Players must travel around town to find, catch, train and battle these Pokemon. “I love what the game is doing for people,” said Walter Christensen, a junior construction engineering technology major. “Introvert gamers are now almost forced to go out of their comfort zones and meet new people.” The game allows players to choose between one of three colorcoded teams: Mystic (blue), Valor (red) and Instinct (yellow). These teams battle for ownership of areas called “Gyms,” located in real-world locations of significance such as memorials. This summer, Louisiana Tech University’s campus came alive each night as students came together to hunt for Pokemon and conquer Gyms. “I’ve seen the same people out and about at night and had short conversations with them,” Christensen said. “I work all day so it’s a nice way to see some unfamiliar faces which may soon become familiar.” Thus far team Mystic has dominated Tech campus, both in player

count and Gym control. With at least four Gyms located on the main campus alone, it is not uncommon to see each one shining the blue light of Mystic. Nick Winters, a junior architecture major, had a very simple reason for picking his team. “I chose Mystic just because of Tech blue,” Winters said. Despite his team allegiance, Winters said he advises incoming freshmen to consider other options. “Honestly, pick another team,” he said. “It gets boring when we own all the gyms; I’d like to have more battles.” Caitlyn Cornwell, a graduate assistant at Tech, is a leader among Ruston Team Mystic members on social media. She said she enjoys the adventure the game entails. “The best part about the game is the thrill of tracking down the Pokemon,” Cornwell said. “It makes you have to get out, and every day is a different experience. Me and my husband literally got out of bed at 12:30 in the morning when we noticed a rare Pokemon nearby.” “Pokemon Go,” like many Nintendo-based games before it, tries to encourage physical activity from its players. One of the primary mechanisms that does this is the egg-hatching system, by which a players can hatch rare Pokemon from eggs by walking a set number of kilometers while playing the game. Christensen said the exercise component is one of the game’s best features. “It’s doing wonders for getting people more active,” he said. “It’s great for freshmen to maintain some level of activity, because we all know how easy it is to binge-watch Game of Thrones all day.”

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Jessica Chicola, a senior chemical engineering major, said she enjoys the mobility of the game. “My favorite thing about the game is walking around and talking to people while I hatch my eggs,” Chicola said. Chicola said she appreciates that “Pokemon Go” is a game that appeals to non-gamers. “This is the only game I have ever really committed to and enjoyed,” she said. Due to its massive popularity, the game has generated varied opinions of its effects on players and those around them. Proponents claim the game brings people together, while others say distracted players can be a safety hazard. Matthew Watson, a pre-veterinary student at Tech, said students can avoid being a nuisance while catching Pokemon by using common sense. “Definitely never Pokemon and drive,” Watson said. “Always have your designated Poke-pilot in the passenger seat.” Watson said all things considered, the most attractive aspect of the game is its connection to the past. “My first game system was a Nintendo DS, and my first game was Pokemon,” Watson said. “Every time a new Pokemon game comes out I play it and beat it, so when this game came out, I was like ‘yes; now I don’t have to be lazy anymore.’” Christensen said he, too, attributes much of the game’s early success to the fact that it reminds college-age players of their childhood. “My favorite thing is the nostalgia,” he said. “It’s hard to resist. It was every kid’s dream to have Pokemon in real life, and this is as close as you can get.”

Photo by Caleb Daniel

Pictured is an in-game photo of a Bulbasaur jumping from the rim of the Lady of the Mist fountain. Using augmented reality, Pokemon Go! allows players to encounter Pokemon in the real world.

www.thetechtalk.org

Fall 2016 • Bulldog Survival Guide • 11

Surviving college on a tight budget HALEY REGISTER Staff Reporter | har005@latech.edu

Instagram and get the inside scoop.” Thomas said. Students entering college will have In a survey conducted by Edvisors, to start shopping for groceries. Walmart results revealed that 64 percent of col- offers price matching on most of their lege students admitted that they had run food items, so taking advantage of this out of money before the end of the se- will help to save some extra dollars. mester. D’nyelle Katz is a senior For many college freshenvironmental science mamen, the first year is a time jor who said she loves thrift of changes and wake-up shopping. calls. Learning how to bud“If you wear a lot of Tget money is extremely imshirts like I do, Rolling Hills portant for the majority of is the best place to go,” Katz students. said. Stephanie Moore, a se“They have tons of shirts, nior marketing major, said some of them are even Ruston offers many places to brand new, and they are all keep students happy without under $2.” breaking their budget. For things like holiday “If you wear a “Chili’s is where I ate most decorations, gift bags and of my food my first year,” lot of T-shirts simple craft supplies, Katz like I do, RollMoore said. recommends Dollar Tree. “They have a wide vari- ing Hills is the “But be careful,” she said. ety of food with great prices. best place to go. “When everything is a dollar Also, coupons were my best it’s easy to get overly excited They have tons friends. They still are.” and end up spending $20 inMoore also suggested tak- of shirts, some stead of $5.” ing advantage of the many of them are Ashley Stuteville graduatplaces in Ruston that accept even brand new, ed with a bachelor’s degree Tech Express payments. in biology and is currently and they are all Louisiana Tech graduworking on her master’s ate Catherine Thomas listed under $2.” while working as a graduate some of her favorite local assistant at Tech. D’NYELLE KATZ spots for great deals. “Getting a job at a res“For drinks, happy hour senior environment taurant specifically to trade at Sonic,” Thomas said. “For science major food with friends who work food, Ponchatoula’s, Sunat other restaurants would down Tavern and The Dawg House are be a wise decision,” Stuteville said. awesome choices, and for shopping, Stuteville knows that college can be check out the sales.” stressful and she revealed her secret to Thomas suggested going to the keeping sane. downtown stores to look for their week“When the stress makes you wonder ly sales. how much you really need that educa“Follow all of the local shops on tion, El Jarrito has 2 for 1 margaritas.”

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12 • Bulldog Survival Guide • Fall 2016

Tech Farm keeping things local PAYTON POTTER Staff Reporter | jpp017@latech.edu Louisiana Tech’s south campus, home to the agricultural sciences department, contains a wealth of animals, activities and products for every student to enjoy and learn from. Instructor and meat lab supervisor Gordon Reger said he thinks it is important to provide students from all majors with a practical agricultural education. “I’ve had students who have never had an agriculture job and didn’t know anything about agriculture,” he said. “I’m willing to give anybody a chance. Sometimes when we give them a chance, they will switch majors and be like ‘this is what I really want to do. I enjoy this.’ You’ve just got to educate people. The more people you can get and educate, the better off we all are.” Some items produced by the student workers at the Tech Farm are transported to the Tech Farm Salesroom where they are sold. The profits gained from items such as poinsettias and Bulldog Rub are used to fund scholarships for agriculture students. “We have an item that (Mark) Murphey came up with a dry rub called a Bulldog Rub,” he said. “We have it mass-produced somewhere else and shipped back to us now. All the profits that generates go into scholarships.” The Tech Farm also raises scholarship money through an annual livestock sale hosted on south campus. Brittney Wells, an employ-

EVERY TUESDAY NIGHT IS

Photo by Loren Grooms

Louisiana Tech’s south campus is home to a plethora of plant and animal life for agriculture students to utilize and enjoy. This greenhouse produces vegetation such as poinsettias and the Tech Farm Salesroom has a variety of discount meats. ee at the Tech Farm Salesroom and an animal science and agricultural business major, said most of the products sold in the salesroom are locally sourced. “We try our best to be fresh and local,” she said. “We try not to order anything that isn’t from Louisiana. Our eggs are from a guy in Dubach; the milk is from Flowing Hills in Belmont. The Mad Pickles company is headquartered in Texas, but (the pickles are) all from Louisiana. The corn is from an alumnus. The rice is from down south. Like I said, we try to get everything local.” Wells said she encourages students to visit the salesroom and take advantage of marked-down meat. “For students, it would be good for them to come check out the discount cooler,” she said. “It has almost every cut of meat in it. Every Friday, we put everything that hasn’t

sold in the freezer. It is discounted 15 percent. And, of course, we have ice cream.” Kristin Schof, a student worker in the Tech Farm swine unit, said she appreciates the firsthand experience she gained at the farm. “It’s really hands-on,” said the sophomore pre-veterinary major. “Compared to other schools, there is a lot of physical contact. They have classes come out here. My first animal science class, we came out here and earnotched pigs.” Schof said she encourages every student to visit south campus. “Come drive by and see,” she said. “You can always go to Reese Hall up there and ask somebody. They will take you out here and give you a tour. Get involved. Talk to people. All you have to do is introduce yourself and they will take you under their wing and help you out.”

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Fall 2016 • Bulldog Survival Guide • 13

1. A.E. Phillips Laboratory School 2. Adams Hall Classrooms 3. Adams Hall (Residence) 4. Applied Sciences Advanced Studies Labs (South Campus) 5. Argent Pavillion 6. Art & Architecture Workshop (South Campus) 7. Aswell Hall (Residence) 8. Band Building 9. Biomedical Engineering Building (Humana EC Wing) 10. Bogard Hall (Engineering) 11. Bookstore (Barnes & Noble) 12. Business, College of 13. Butler Building (Buildings & Grounds, South Campus) 14. Carson-Taylor Hall (Human Ecology & Science) 15. Centennial Plaza/Centennial Tower 16. Cottingham Hall (Residence) 17. Davison Athletics Complex 18. Davison Hall 19. Dudley Hall (Residence) 20. Early Childhood Education Center (Human Ecology) 21. Engineering Annex 22. Environmental Safety Building (South Campus) 23. Equine Center (South Campus) 24. Farm Shop (South Campus) 25. Farm Storage (South Campus) 26. F. Jay Taylor Visual Arts Center 27. Flight Operations Center (at Ruston Airport) 28. Football Practice Field 29. Forestry Laboratory Building (South Campus) 30. Garland Gregory Hideaway Park 31. George T. Madison Hall (Arts & Sciences) 32. Graham Hall (Residence) 33. Hale Hall (Admissions & Architecture) 34. Harper Hall (Residence) 35. Howard Center for the Performing Arts 36. Hutcheson Hall (closed) 37. Institute for Micromanufacturing 38. Intramural Field (Lower) 39. Intramural Field (Upper) 40. J.C. Love Field 41. Jenkins Hall (Housing Custodial Oces) 42. Jim Mize Track & Field Complex 43. Joe Aillet Field House & Charles Wyly Athletics Center 44. Joe Aillet Stadium 45. KLPI Radio Station 46. Keeny Hall (Administration) 47. Lady Techster Soccer Field 48. Lady Techsters Softball Complex 49. Lambright Intramural Sports Center 50. Landscape/Lawnmower Shop 51. Livestock Production Laboratory (South Campus) 52. Lomax Hall (South Campus) 53. M.S. Carroll Natatorium 54. Maintenance Shops (South Campus) 55. Marbury Alumni Center 56. McFarland Hall (Housing Custodial Oces) 57. Meat Processing Laboratory (South Campus) 58. Memorial Gymnasium 59. Mitchell Hall (Residence) 60. Nanopulse Facility (South Campus) 61. Nethken Hall (Engineering)

ST AD IU M

S ND STA

TECH DR

S ND STA

42 42

CC 90 90CC

NC 9090NC

43 43

78 78

90TCTC 90

ALABAMA AVE (LA HWY 150)

TECH DR

40 40

LOUISIANA ST

16 16

52 52

93 93

76 76

TEXAS ST

BARNET T SPRINGS

50 66 66

1 80

200'

300'

400'

500'

82 82

1000'

80 80

33 DUDLEY

18 18

37 37

14 14

20 20

1919 32 32 CIRCLE

63 63

23 23

57 57

5 CALIFORNIA AVE

NELSON AVE

TECH DR

THORNTON ST

25 25

100'

51 51

61 61 21 21

HERGOT AVE

MAYFIELD ST

84 20

DAN RENEAU DR

79 79

CENTENNIAL WALKWAY

34 34

HERGOT AVE

10 10

15 15

BOND ST

41 41

45 45

87 87 26 26

12 12

35 35

SOUTH CAMPUS

46 46

81 81

56 56

89 89 60 60

70 70

11 11

COLLEGE ST

53 53

GREENWAY DR

CIRCLE

59 59

36 36

29 29 XD MA LO

91 91

KEENY

22 22

7777

67 67

75 75

54 54

72 72

58 58

13 13

HOMER ST

92 47

64 64

WISTERIA

REE

94 94

33 83 83

WISTERIA DR

)

MAYFIELD ST

31 31

62MC 62 MC

RAILROAD AVE

TECH DR

E AV

RAILROAD AVE

OAD

RAILR

JC 62 JC 62 68D

AVE

WEST WOOD

NIA

LIF

6969

GILMAN ST

HULL

SC 90 90SC

EVERETT ST.

48 48

47 47

74 74

W. MISSISSIPPI AVE.

ST WESTERN

62 62HCHC

JAMES ST.

KC 90KC 90

WESTERN ST

ALABAMA AVE.

85 85 ALABAMA AVE (LA HWY 150)

TECH FARM RD

44 44 ST WE

Walkways

28 28

17 17

AGRICULTURE DR

Sporting Fields

STA

URE DR

at Arkansas vs. S. Carolina St. at Texas Tech at Middle Tennessee* vs. UTEP vs. Western Kentucky at UMass at FIU* vs. Rice* at North Texas* vs. UTSA* at Southern Miss*

Sports Facilities BLV

ST EA

AGRICULT

3 p.m. CT 6 p.m. CT 6 p.m. CT 6 p.m. CT 6 p.m. CT 7 p.m. CT 2:30 p.m. CT 6 p.m. CT 6 p.m. CT 4:30 a.m. CT 2:30 p.m. CT TBA

Roads/Parking Lots D

M DIU

Residential/Dorm Buildings

CIRC

E AG

Livestock and Agricultural Buildings

49 49

L VIL

9/03 9/10 9/17 9/24 10/01 10/06 10/15 10/22 10/29 11/05 11/12 11/25

General/Other Buildings

27 27 NIA

LIF

E AV

CAREY AVE

100'

200'

300'

400'

500'

1000'

LOUISIANA TECH UNIVERSITY RUSTON, LOUISIANA

71 71

1. A.E. Phillips Laboratory School

2. Adams Hall Apartments Classrooms 62. Park Place 3. Adams Hall (Residence) HC4.- Applied Hutcheson Commons Sciences Advanced Studies Labs (South Campus) Pavillion JC 5.6.- Argent Jenkins Commons Art & Architecture Workshop (South Campus) MC7. -Aswell McFarland Commons Hall (Residence) 8. Band Hall Building(Residence) 63. Pearce 9. Biomedical Engineering Building (Humana EC Wing) 64. Physical (South Campus) 10. Bogard Plant Hall (Engineering) 11. Bookstore (Barnes & Noble) 65. Planetarium 12. Business, College of 66. Power Plant Custodial Oces 13. Butler Buildingand (Buildings & Grounds, South Campus) 14. Carson-Taylor Hall (Human Ecology & Science) 67. Prescott Memorial Library 15. Centennial Plaza/Centennial Tower 68. President’s 16. CottinghamHome Hall (Residence) 17. Davison Athletics Complex (South Campus) 69. Printing Department 18. Davison Hall 70. Processing Plant (South Campus) 19. Dudley Hall (Residence) 20. Early Childhood Education Center (Human Ecology) 71. Production Center (South Campus) 21. Engineering Annex 72. Reese Hall (South Campus) 22. Environmental Safety Building (South Campus) 23. 24. 25. 26. 27. 28. 29. 30. 31. 32. 33. 34.

SPORTS

SCHEDULES BULLDOG FOOTBALL

Education Buildings

39 39

ADAMS BLVD

O LLD

TECH FARM RD

FALL

55 55

30 30

TECH FARM RD

2016

68 68

VOLLEYBALL

Equine Center (South Campus) Farm Shop (South Campus) Farm Storage (South Campus) F. Jay Taylor Visual Arts Center Flight Operations Center (at Ruston Airport) Football Practice Field Forestry Laboratory Building (South Campus) Garland Gregory Hideaway Park George T. Madison Hall (Arts & Sciences) Graham Hall (Residence) Hale Hall (Admissions & Architecture) Harper Hall (Residence)

35. 36. 37. 38. 39. 40. 41. 42. 43. 44. 45. 46. 47. 48. 49. 50. 51. 52. 53. 54. 55. 56. 57. 58. 59. 60. 61. 62.

MAIN CAMPUS

Howard Center for the Performing Arts Hutcheson Hall (closed) Institute for Micromanufacturing Intramural Field (Lower) Intramural Field (Upper) J.C. Love Field Jenkins Hall (Housing Custodial Offices) Jim Mize Track & Field Complex Joe Aillet Field House & Charles Wyly Athletics Center Joe Aillet Stadium KLPI Radio Station Keeny Hall (Administration) Lady Techster Soccer Field Lady Techsters Softball Complex Lambright Intramural Sports Center Landscape/Lawnmower Shop Livestock Production Laboratory (South Campus) Lomax Hall (South Campus) M.S. Carroll Natatorium Maintenance Shops (South Campus) Marbury Alumni Center McFarland Hall (Housing Custodial Offices) Meat Processing Laboratory (South Campus) Memorial Gymnasium Mitchell Hall (Residence) Nanopulse Facility (South Campus) Nethken Hall (Engineering) Park Place Apartments 62HC - Hutcheson Commons 62JC - Jenkins Commons 62MC - McFarland Commons 63. Pearce Hall (Residence) 64. Physical Plant (South Campus) 65. Planetarium

66. Power Plant and Custodial Offices

Prescott Memorial Library 87. Tolliver Hall/Post Oce 73. Richardson Hall (Art Studios)67. 68. President’s Home 74. Robert H. Rawle Enterprises 69. Center 88. Tractor & Machinery Laboratory Printing Department (South Campus) 70. Processing Plant (South Campus) (South Campus) 75. Robinson Hall (Speech & Hearing Clinic) 71. Production Center (South Campus) 76. Ropp Center (University Club)72. Reese Hall (South Campus) 89. Trenchless Technology Center 73. Richardson Hall (Art Studios) 90. University Park Apartments 77. Sawmill (South Campus) 74. Robert H. Rawle Enterprises Center 78. Sorority Row CC - Caruthers Commons 75. Robinson Hall (Speech & Hearing Clinic) 79. South Hall (University Police)76. Ropp Center (University Club) KC - Kidd Commons 77. Sawmill (South Campus) 80. Spirit Park NC - Neilson Commons 78. Sorority Row 79. South Hall (University Police) 81. Student Center TC - Thatcher Commons 80. Spirit Park 82. T.H. Harris SC - Sutton Commons 81. Student Center 82. Campus) T.H. Harris 83. Tech Farm Sales Room (South 91. University Hall 83. Tech Farm Sales Room (South Campus) 84. Tech Pointe 92. Wash Rack & Bus Shed (South Campus) 84. Tech Pointe 85. Tech Tennis Complex 85. Tech Tennis Complex 93. Woodard Hall (Education & Idea Place) Thomas Assembly Center 86. Thomas Assembly Center 86. 94. Wyly Tower of Learning 87. Tolliver Hall/Post Office 88. Tractor & Machinery Laboratory (South Campus) 89. Trenchless Technology Center 90. University Park Apartments 90CC - Caruthers Commons 90KC - Kidd Commons 90NC - Neilson Commons 90TC - Thatcher Commons 90SC - Sutton Commons 91. University Hall 92. Wash Rack & Bus Shed (South Campus) 93. Woodard Hall (Education & Idea Place) 94. Wyly Tower of Learning

EIU PANTHER CLASSIC 9/9 9/10

4 p.m. CT 11 a.m. CT 7 p.m. CT

9/13

7 p.m. CT

vs. Bowling Green vs. Drake at Eastern Illinois vs. Jackson State

TULSA VOLLEYBALL INVITATIONAL 9/16 9/17

3 p.m. CT 9 a.m. CT 7 p.m. CT

vs. Northwestern State vs. Oral Roberts at Tulsa

9/25 9/30 10/02 10/04 10/07 10/09 10/12 10/14 10/16 10/21 10/23 10/28 10/30 11/04 11/06 11/10

1 p.m. CT 7 p.m. CT 1 p.m. CT 7 p.m. CT 7 p.m. CT 1 p.m. CT 7 p.m. CT 7 p.m. CT 1 p.m. CT 6 p.m. CT 12 p.m. CT 7 p.m. CT 1 p.m. CT 5 p.m. CT 1 p.m. CT 7 p.m. CT

at Rice* vs. Western Kentucky* vs. North Texas* vs. ULM vs. Middle Tennessee* at UAB* vs. Grambling at Southern Miss* vs. Marshall* at Flordia Atlantic* at FIU* vs. UTEP* vs. UTSA* at Charlotte* at North Texas* vs. Southern Miss*

11/18,19,20

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SOCCER 9/09 9/11 9/16 9/18 9/22 9/25 9/30 10/05 10/14 10/16 10/21 10/23 10/28 11/02,04,16

7 p.m. CT 1 p.m. CT 6 p.m. CT 1 p.m. CT 7 p.m. CT 1 p.m. CT 7 p.m. CT 7 p.m. CT 6 p.m. CT 12 p.m. CT 7 p.m. CT 1 p.m. CT 7 p.m. CT

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14 • Bulldog Survival Guide • Fall 2016

WEEKLYHOROSCOPE www.horoscopes.com.net

Aries March 21 – April 19 You might feel cornered into doing something you don’t want to do today, Aries. Perhaps you made a promise to handle a project. Maybe someone decides it’s the day to call in an I.O.U. Either way, say so if you aren’t comfortable following through. Today’s energy enhances your ability to express yourself and be understood. Rescheduling may be far better than potential resentment. Taurus Apr 20 - May 20 You might find that someone close to you needs a hand today, Taurus. They could be too proud to ask for help. Don’t let that stop you. If you see a situation in which you can help, do it. Don’t wait for an invitation or request. Simply assess the situation and do what you can. Your efforts will be appreciated and you’ll feel good about making a difference. Gemini May 21 - Jun 20 When was the last time you used a pen and paper, Gemini? The keyboard has all but replaced these wonderful tools. In the same way that walking provides more than fresh air, the kinesthetic value of writing’s rhythmic motion is far more soothing and healing than people realize. Moving your hand across the page can feel good. It unlocks places within that typing can’t access. Try it. Cancer Jun 21 - Jul 22 Today could bring a keen sense of empathy and understanding, Cancer. Verbal communication is likely to be enhanced. Take advantage of this by talking through any problems or issues with important people in your life. Go to visit or call to work things out. Most importantly, express your affection for those closest to you by telling them straight out what they mean to you. Leo Jul 23 - Aug 22 Don’t be surprised if your mind goes a thousand miles a second today, Leo. Slowing down will be difficult, and you’ll have to find a way to express what’s in your head. The planetary aspects lend strength to communication. Perhaps talking out your ideas or writing to someone whose insight you value will help. Even doodling can give you a place to put your thoughts. Virgo Aug 23 - Sep 22 Welcome to another great day, Virgo! The energy from the planetary aspects is positive and encouraging, especially when it comes to communicating and interacting with others. Take advantage of this. Get together with friends and family for a pleasant visit.

Consider inviting people over for games or dinner. A potluck can be fun. You work hard all the time, so play gently today.

CROSSWORDPUZZLE

Libra Sep 23 - Oct 22 You might be really interested in getting out and doing something with the special people in your life, Libra. You can thank the day’s planetary aspects, which are conspiring to make this a perfect time to get together. Is there a place you’re curious about and want to visit? Go today. Pack up the family or friends, and go for a fun day to check it out.

Across 1. ATM maker 4. Free to attack 9. Investigation 14. Guido’s high note 15. Hopping mad 16. Conger catcher 17. Derelict 18. Claw 19. Data 20. Agent 23. “___ Tu”: 1974 hit 24. Maiden name preceder 25. Frenzied woman 28. Fortuneteller 30. Gore and Hirt 33. Atlas feature 34. Singer Vikki 35. District 36. In spite of 39. Keats works 40. Relaxation 41. Snap course 42. French possessive 43. ___bitty 44. Filthy 45. Ukr. or Lith., once 46. Shrivelled, without moisture 47. Distinguishing feature 54. “Lovergirl” singer ___ Marie 55. Attacked 56. Swelled head 57. Rocky debris 58. Valuable violin 59. CD follower 60. Bit of wisdom 61. Declines 62. Heston’s org.

Scorpio Oct 23 - Nov 21 Scorpio, consider channeling your philosophical inspirations into creative writing, Scorpio. It’s probably something you’ll enjoy. Even if you haven’t expressed yourself in this way before, there’s no better day than today to give it a whirl. Try your hand at poetry or fiction. If that seems too daunting, start a journal. This will give you a place to collect your thoughts and insights. Sagittarius Nov 22 - Dec 21 You can expect today to be kind of intense, Sagittarius. Even if you’ve made a conscious decision not to let anything get you down, you may still harbor some negative emotions from the last few days. Take advantage of this time to relieve stress. Talk to someone close or go out and whack a tennis ball. An artistic pursuit, such as sketching or photography, will help eliminate some of the negative energy. Capricorn Dec 22 - Jan 19 Today you may want to go your own way regardless of what anyone else wants, Capricorn. Your independence is important to you, but compromise might be needed in order to avoid conflict. Consider splitting your time between those close to you and yourself. Explain to your loved ones why you need alone time. If it’s done with grace and humor, they’ll undoubtedly support you. Aquarius Jan 20 - Feb 18 Today may find you in the mood for an adventure or a visit, Aquarius. When was the last time you took a day for something like this? It’s probably been too long. Not only will you enjoy it but others will be thrilled to spend time with you, too. Whether you invite a friend along or go alone, seize the opportunity to visit people or see someplace new.

BestCrosswords.com Puzzle #1 for August 17, 2016

Down

1. Wyo. neighbor Across 2. Hint 1 ATM maker; 4 Free to attack; 9 3. Freeway14 access Investigation; Guido's high note; . Clerisy mad; 16 Conger 154Hopping 5. Rubbed out catcher; 17 Derelict; 18 Claw; 19 6. Stories Data; 20 Agent; 23 "___ Tu": 1974 . Like ___ ofname brickspreceder; 25 hit; 724 Maiden 8. Camp sight 28 Fortuneteller; Frenzied woman; . Bugand Hirt; 33 Atlas feature; 309Gore Fasten again 3410. Singer Vikki; 35 District; 36 In 11of; . Norwegian spite 39 Keats king works; 40 12. ___ noire Relaxation; 41 Snap course; 42 13. Trauma ctrs. 43 ___bitty; French possessive; . Continues a subscription 4421 Filthy; 45 Ukr. or Lith., once; . The end without of ___ moisture; 47 4622 Shrivelled, 25. North Dakota city54 Distinguishing feature; 26. Battery terminal "Lovergirl" singer ___ Marie; 55 27. ___56 Park, Colorado Attacked; Swelled head; 57 28. Fresh Rocky debris; 58 Valuable violin; . Harper’s 5929 CD follower;Bazaar 60 Bitillustrator of wisdom; . Come up 6130 Declines; 62 Heston's org.; 31. Weill’s wife

32. Astronomer Carl Down 34. FDR’s fireside 1 Wyo. neighbor; 2 _____ Hint; 3 35. Sayings Freeway access; 4 Clerisy; 5 37. Aquarium fish 7 Like ___ of54bricks; Rubbed out; 6 Stories; Camp sight; 9 Bug; 10 Fasten again; 11 . Sugar8amt. LAST ISSUE’S SOLUTION back | Print | Help 38. Inflammation a nerve Norwegian king; 12 of ___ noire; 13 Trauma ctrs.; 21Go Continues a subscription; 22 The end of ___; BestCrosswords.com Puzzle #1 for May 30, 2016 . Sharon’s land 2543 North Dakota city; 26 Battery terminal; 27 ___ Park, Colorado; 28 Fresh; 29 Harper's Bazaar Across 44. Add30 fizzCome up; 31 Weill's wife; 32 Astronomer 1 Colombian city; 5 Quizzes, trials; illustrator; Carl; 34 FDR's fireside _____; 35 10 Monks; 14 Pearl Buck heroine; 45. More 15 Uncanny; 16 Kiln for drying Sayings; 37rational Aquarium fish; 38 Inflammation of a nerve; 43 Sharon's land; 44 Add fizz; 45 More hops; 17 Surname before marriage; 46. Family car car; 47 Gospel singer Winans; 48 19 Dept. of Laborof div.; Zeus; 20 Darken; 49 Tobacco plug; 50 Writer rational; 46 Family Wife 21 Male sibling; 23 Kind of 47. Gospel singergull; Winans reaction; 25 Approvals; 26 Too; Janowitz; 51 Small 52 Aviation pioneer Sikorsky; 53 Prolonged unconsciousness; 54 Sugar 29 Watchful one; 31 Oneeighty; 48. Wife of Zeus 35 Camp bed; 36 Make money; amt.; 37 Wide street; 38 Becomes 6/29/2016

49. Tobacco plug 50. Writer Janowitz 51. Small gull 52. Aviation pioneer Sikorsky 53. Prolonged unconsciousness

DAILY U

visible; 40 Exceed; 41 Property; 42 Conceal; 43 Queue after Q; 44 Lauder of cosmetics; 45 Mata ___; 46 Iowa city; 47 Fatty part of milk; 49 Sugar amt.; 51 Shrine to self sacrifice; 54 Express a viewpoint; 58 Caboose; 59 Living on land and in water; 63 Cube maker Rubik; 64 Philosopher Kierkegaard; 65 Part of A.D.; 66 Slay; 67 Pitchers; 68 Capone foe;

Have any ideas for future comics or feedback? Email dwyer@latech.edu

Pisces Feb 19 - Mar 20 Serious thinking and communication are enhanced today, Pisces. They’re already strong qualities in you, and with this added boost, you’ll need an outlet for expression. A journal is an excellent vehicle. Talking is another. If you have issues or worries, consider getting together with all involved and airing your thoughts. It’s a perfect day to resolve problems.

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Down 1 Hair untangler; 2 Wings; 3 Placed down; 4 Blue dye; 5 1980's movie starring Bo Derek and Dudley Moore; 6 Bard's nightfall; 7 Madrid Mrs.; 8 Wood; 9 Visionaries; 10 Footfall; 11 Impetuous; 12 1968 US Open champ; 13 Asterisk; 18 Relative of an ostrich; 22 Body of work; 24 Weeping; 25 Kyoto currency; 26 Without ___ in the world; 27 Easy gaits; 28 March honoree, briefly; 30 Mos. and mos.; 32 Render weaponless; 33 Charlotte ___; 34 Tree houses; 36 Diner; 37 Examine account books; 39 Elementary particle; 40 Title of a knight; 42 Stage hog; 45 Hay stored in a barn; 46 Rome's ___ Way; 48 Efface; 50 Cry out loud; 51 TV horse; 52 Russian airline, _____flot; 53 Hindu queen; 55 Actress Skye; 56 Sisters; 57 Those, to Juan; 60 Opposite of post; 61 That ship; 62 ___ and outs;

SUDOKUPUZZLE

WE ARE BULLGOGS A

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Walking distance from La Tech Beautiful Pool

Call about our specials! 1408 TECH FARM RD. • RUSTON, LA 71270 • 318.255.4928

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LAST ISSUE’S SOLUTION

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Fall 2016 • Bulldog Survival Guide • 15

Photo Courtesy of Lagniappe ‘58

Students shave the head of a Tech freshman as part of freshman initiation.

Photo by Donny Crowe

Convocation medallions are thrown into the Lady of the Mist as a freshman tradition.

Tech traditions come and go LACY CAMP Staff Reporter | lmc074@latech.edu Traditions are key aspects to culture and student life at Louisiana Tech University. With the earliest tradition starting soon after the university’s founding in 1894, some traditions have been recently introduced while some were lost. Since 2007 it has become a custom that every September during Welcome Week, incoming freshmen gather for Convocation and receive a medallion that has a picture of the Lady of the Mist

on the front and the Tenets of Tech on the back. The significance of this event is to mark the first time the students in the freshman class come together and the last time they will officially gather together until graduation. At the end of the ceremony, the students walk from Howard Auditorium along a candlelit, alumni-filled path to the Lady of the Mist, where they deposit their medallions into the fountain as a symbol of their investment in themselves and Tech. “I think one of the greatest opportunities for students

to connect to their university is through traditions,” said Stacy Gilbert, assistant dean of student development. “It’s such a fulfilling experience.” However, throughout the years, some freshman traditions have been almost forgotten. Beginning in the early 1900s, incoming freshmen received pocket-size catalogs, known as the “T” book, describing the regulations of how freshmen should act and dress. “Freshmen shall obey and respect all upper-classmen,” a freshman “T” book from 1902 said. “They shall

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say ‘yes sir’ and ‘no sir’ to all upperclassmen. They shall obey the reasonable wishes and demands of an upperclassman, such as running errands, cleaning up rooms, shining shoes, getting laundry, etc., and give upperclassmen the sidewalk.” If a freshman failed to comply to the rules, he or she would have to face the Dean of Men or Women. In 1928, Dean W. L. Mitchell formed the Freshman Rules Committee to prevent “hazing” toward freshmen. The committee was to “manage the ‘hazing’ on the

freshmen in such a way that they would be able to enter into the spirit of college life on a firm foundation without suffering the physical indignities.” Although the respect toward upper-classmen clause was eventually no longer written in the “T” book starting in 1947 and the committee put a halt to most of the hazing, there was another old freshman tradition upheld until the 1960s. All incoming freshmen girls had to wear green caps given to them by their advisers while the boys had to

have their heads repeatedly shaved by the upperclassmen boys with whatever design the upperclassmen chose. Both the cap wearing and head shaving took place from the beginning of the school year until Christmas. “It’s such an old tradition that most people have no idea about it,” said Joyce Chandler, a staff member at the Tech archives. “I am sure if the freshmen today knew about this tradition, they would be even happier with just having a medallion.”

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16 • Bulldog Survival Guide • Fall 2016

Photos courtesy of John Wood/Welcome to Beautiful Ruston

CALLING RUSTON HOME

THOUSANDS OF STUDENTS HAVE COME AND GONE FROM LOUISIANA TECH, BUT SOME GRADUATES NOW CALL RUSTON HOME PAYTON POTTER Staff Reporter | jpp017@latech.edu TOP: This is a view of downtown Ruston on South Trenton Street in the 1960s.

ABOVE: Ruston International Airport attracted many visitors from across the south.

RIGHT: Former Tech student John Wood would walk the city limits of Ruston in his spare time.

BELOW: The building that would become the Ruston Daily Leader sits barren.

Louisiana Tech is known across the nation as a top-ranking school for many reasons, but in the case of several students and alumni, Tech and the surrounding town of Ruston means a bit more than a place to get a quality education. For Robin Robbins, a Ruston native who met his wife while studying agronomy at Tech, Ruston means family, fulfillment and fortuity. “We love the small town feel and the ease of getting around,” he said. “Tech provides a family atmosphere second-to-none at their sporting events and programs, making this a great place to call home.” Robbins, now 42, has ties to Ruston and Tech that date back to his youth, but they have held him in Ruston throughout the intervening years. “My father started our family business, Irrigation-Mart, while he was a professor at Tech,” he said. “After graduation, I joined the family business full-time to assist my father and brother in growing to what we are today. Ruston is a great place to raise a family and run a business. Being in a college town makes it easier to find qualified employees for our growing company’s needs and keeping us relevant to the current market.” University president Les Guice has been a faculty member at Tech for 38 years. He said his position as both an alumnus and as the president of Tech gives him a unique perspective. “I have my own sort of Tech story,” he said. “Being an alumnus of the institution and getting to serve as a faculty member and a dean and a vice-president and a president is a pretty unusual thing if you look at it nationally. It’s a chance, in my case, to be the president of an institution that I am an alumnus of. That really creates special things for me. I have a historical perspective.”

Although Guice’s original intentions were not to return to Tech as a faculty member, he said the offer was exciting. “When I graduated from here, I did work with some architecture firms,” he said. “Pretty soon after that, I had an opportunity to come back and teach.” “It was never my career aspiration to teach, but I did some as a graduate student; so, when I got invited back to do that, I said, ‘how incredible of an opportunity is that?’” Guice said the social and academic atmosphere at Tech is one of the factors that draws students to Ruston and encourages them to stay after graduation. “I spend a lot of time walking around campus trying to visit with people and help me understand who is here and see what I can do to help,” he said. “Usually when I run into a student, I say ‘how are things going?’ It usually comes down to them saying ‘I love it. I love the environment.’” In the fashion of Guice and Robbins, 2014 graduate Molly Poda also decided to remain in Ruston after graduation. Now an employee at the university bookstore, she said Tech has always been an important part of her life.. “I came to Tech because both of my parents graduated from here, so I grew up loving Tech,” she said. “My mom used to work here, so I was here a lot as a kid. I came to college here and loved it. I loved the area.” Poda said Ruston is far enough from her home that she can be independent while still experiencing the small town atmosphere and encouragement from the people around her. “It’s just far enough away from home to not be home, but it still feels like home,” she said. “It’s far enough away that my parents aren’t checking on me all the time, but I can run home if I need to. It’s the feel of family and the feel that the people here want you to succeed in life even after you leave Tech. It’s a really good place.”

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Fall 2016 • Bulldog Survival Guide • 17

Parking plan will double fines

Rockett says, “...It will cost them a fortune to be ticketed.” By SONJA BAILES News Editor, Spring 1990 Students attending Tech next fall can expect their cars to be towed if they receive four tickets within a quarter. Parking fines will be doubled, and 40 additional student parking spaces will be added. All of these changes were approved by a unanimous vote of the Parking and Traffic Committee, which has both faculty, staff and students representation. Galen Rockett, director of the Student Center and also a member of the Traffic Committee, explained how the new system will work. “Hopefully we will write less tickets due to the increase in fines. But if a student gets four tickets in a quarter, his parking sticker will be suspended and his car will be towed whenever it is parked on campus.”

Last issue we ran a story about parking improvements coming to Tech campus. For some contrast, take a look at this parking story from the front page of the Tech Talk on May 3, 1990. Rockett said this rule has been in the Campus Traffic Regulations booklet for years but has not been enforced. However, beginning fall quarter, enforcement will begin. Students who receive their fourth ticket, whether they have paid them or not, will be notified that their parking privileges have been suspended for the quarter and will be put on a tow-away list. Whenever a ticket writer or member of the University Police sees the car, it will be towed away at the owner’s expense without notification. Students who have their privileges taken away may still park in the dirt lot behind the Physi-

cal Plant, which will not be paved for the fall, or in the Lady Techsters’ softball field parking lot. However, anywhere else on campus will be considered off-limits, Rockett said. The second part of the plan is to double the fines for most parking violations in hopes of decreasing the number of tickets written. Another addition to this plan is that the ticket amount for a parking violation will be an additional $5 if the ticket is not paid within 48 hours. Rocket said this means students “are going to have to start parking legally because it will cost them a fortune to be ticketed.” He

also said, “This (the increased fines) will help keep students from parking in the faculty spaces I realize students will face a shortage in close student spaces, but there are plenty of spaces just a distance away near the softball field.” The final part of the plan is to change approximately 40 faculty/ staff spaces to student parking. These spots will be located adjacent to Tolliver and Wilson Cafeteria. Rockett said students are already parking there, but are currently being ticketed. “I realize 40 student spaces won’t solve the problem. But as for now the committee has been told to come up with other proposals concerning the parking situation,” Rockett said. Tom Stinson, dean of student affairs, said a meeting will be held the week before finals with the committee. Stinson also said if the committee has thought of any new ideas concerning the parking situation, discussions will be held concerning those proposals.

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18 • Bulldog Survival Guide • Fall 2016

BULLDOG WATCH 2016 Louisiana Tech athletes to look out for this year

RYAN HIGGINS FOOTBALL

KATIE SLOAN WOMEN’S SOCCER

CHASE LUNCEFORD BASEBALL

MARILYN SOMETHING RIZZATOSOM SOFTBALL SOFTBALL

The redshirt senior from Hutto, Texas has seen limited action in his first three seasons as a backup quarterback, but after waiting for his chance behind the transfers Cody Sokol and Jeff Driskel, the team now belongs to Higgins. The new look Bulldogs have been picked to finish second in the C-USA West Division and will look to Higgins to help lead them to a conference title.

Sloan, a senior from Kansas City, Missouri, was named to the preseason All-Confernce USA team for the upcoming season. The forward is a two-time all-conference honoree and is on pace to break multiple career records including most shots, most goals and most points. Sloan looks to continue her streak of leading the team in goals every season as the Lady Techsters kick off the season.

Lunceford is a senior transfer student from Clinton, Mississippi. In his first season with the Bulldogs after leaving Hinds Community College, Lunceford led the team in hits, at bats, RBIs, slugging percentage and home runs as the team made it to an NCAA Regional for the first time since 1987. The third baseman looks to continue that hot streak with a new coach and new expectations of returning to a regional.

Softball signee Rizzato was recently named second team MaxPrep’s All-American after a great senior season at North Forney High School in Forney, Texas. The incoming freshman scored 73 runs in 39 games, batting .615 and had 16 home runs on the year. Rizzato helped lead North Forney to the Class 5A District II semifinals. She is Tech’s first All-American softball signee in more than 20 years.

ASHLEY SANTOS WOMEN’S BASKETBALL

ERIK MCCREE MEN’S BASKETBALL

Santos, a redshirt senior who transferred from Marquette University in Wisconsin before last season, is the high scoring returning player for the Lady Techsters after averaging just under 10 points in 27 minutes a game played last season. The guard shot .377 from the field and also finished with 47 assists. As a returning senior, a new look Lady Techster team will look to Santos for leadership.

McCree is a redshirt senior who transferred from Murray State University in Murray, Kentucky. He averages 16 points a game last season with 38 assists on the year. The last two seasons, the forward from Orlando, Florida has played alongside Tech greats Kenneth “Speedy” Smith and Alex Hamilton. Now that they have graduated, the load falls on McCree to help lead the team back to C-USA glory.

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20 • Bulldog Survival Guide • Fall 2016