Issue 7, Fall 2014 - The Quadrangle

THE Vol.93 Issue 7

Q

UADRANGLE A Student Publication of Manhattan College Since 1924

Oct. 7, 2014

Building Bridges

Engineers Put Their Studies to Use in Cameroon

www.mcquad.org

Students to Vote for Upcoming Jasper Days Artist Kelly Burns Asst. A&E Editor/Production Editor

David Pecorini and Anita Hot are members of Engineers Without Borders , the club that is planning to build a bridge in Cameroon.

Courtesy of the Engineers Without Borders Manhattan College Chapter Facebook page.

Claire Leaden Managing Editor/Features Editor Volunteering is a significant part of the much-celebrated Lasallian mission at Manhattan College, made clear from the past and present opportunities for students to offer their time through L.O.V.E. trips, Hurricane Sandy relief efforts and the postgrad program Lasallian Volunteers.

Though all of these ventures undoubtedly give back, it is rarer to find an opportunity that utilizes the exact skills and talents students explore during their studies in their majors. MC’s chapter of Engineers Without Borders is one of the few that does, and the club is taking their real-world experience one step further with their project to design and build a bridge in Cameroon.

Engineers Without Borders (EWB) is a national nonprofit organization that partners in-need communities around the world with aspiring engineers to design and complete “sustainable engineering projects.”

The college established its chapter of EWB in 2011.

Student chapters can adopt volunteer projects through the national organization, and a short time after the club started, the MC members applied - and were later accepted - for the project in Cameroon, which involved building a proper bridge over a river in the village of Mbirbua.

David Pecorini, a second year civil engineering graduate student, has been involved with the club since it began during his undergraduate years.

“We decided to do Cameroon, in Africa, mostly because it had the cheapest

projected listing price on the site,” Pecorini said.

Each chapter has to fund the entire project—from travel expenses to the actual cost of supplies–entirely on their own.

“It was also because at the time there was one chemical engineering student in the club and eight civil engineers, and a lot of the projects had to do with water quality.

So, we felt the strength of the group then was better suited for a civil engineering project,” he said.

Now, Pecorini said, the group is a strong mix of chemical, mechanical and electrical engineering students, with a slightly larger number of civil engineers due to the club’s history.

Anita Hot, a transfer student from SUNY Oswego who is now a senior chemContinued on Page 2

Fundraising for Student Commons Nearly Complete Sean Sonnemann & Joseph V. Cusmano Web Editor and Senior Writer With approximately $43 million out of $45 million dollars raised, Manhattan College expects to complete fundraising efforts for the new student commons on campus by June of 2015.

“The building is basically paid for, we are just in the clean-up stage at this point,” Vice President for Advancement Thomas Mauriello said.

“We raised enough contributions to build the Kelly Commons without creating any stress on our operating budget, and that is all because of the generosity of our alumni.”

While the commons will not be officially dedicated until Oct. 15, it has been fully operational since this past August.

Visitors may have noticed the recent installation of signs and plaques outside of doorways throughout the building. These signs are inscribed with the names of alumni and organizations that made significant donations to the fundraising campaign.

Most notable among these displays is the donor wall located by the elevator bank

Plaques like these are displayed in the commons showing the names of major donors.

Photo by James O’Connor. on the entrance floor of the building. This Mauriello said. wall includes a breakdown of leading doAt the top of the list on the donor nors by dollar amounts. wall is a $10 million donation by Thomas “The final version comes in the spring. O’Malley, former chairman of Manhattan We still have this campaign running with College’s board of trustees. O’Malley’s this ‘get your name here’ kind of thing,” Continued on Page 2

This spring, students will have a say in the artist that is chosen to perform at the Office of Student Activities’ annual Jasper Days concert in the event formerly known as SpringFest.

The idea to use a survey came after complaints from students saying that they had little to no say in last year’s performance from country singer Kellie Pickler.

“I feel like with Student Activities there’s no students involved,” junior Allyson Vena said. “I think that including all the students population vote is a good idea.”

Student Activities had chosen Pickler to prevent a rowdy and disorderly crowd of students. In 2013, Alesso performed at SpringFest, but his electronic dance music resulted in the widespread use of drugs and alcohol by the student body. However, Pickler’s morning performance did not draw as large of a crowd as Alesso’s evening concert two years ago.

“I don’t want a country star. Maybe a rock concert or a DJ, something that we can dance to and that’s not at 11 in the morning,” sophomore Will Lamparelli said.

The survey will be sent out by the end of this week by Student Activities. Students will be able to vote on the artist they would most want to perform at school. The link to vote will be posted on all the office’s social media accounts. There will be about five artists to choose from, two of them being O.A.R and 3OH!3.

According to John Bennett, director of student activities, the artists that are going to be listed are within the office’s budget.

“Those are realistic in aspect that they’re in our price range, appear to be available at this time, are currently taking dates with their management and will play college shows,” Bennett said.

Other plans for the weekend will be the return of the afternoon barbeque. In previous years, students enjoyed plenty of free food on the quad, though the barbeque was missing from Jasper Days in 2014.

“We’re looking to have the barbeque back. A lot of students were vocal about that so that will be at the top of the list,” Bennett said.

Dorm Wars was also a part of last year’s Jasper Days, but Bennett said he is unsure if it will be included in this year or saved for a separate weekend.

In addition, the Yankees are playing a home game against the Mets that Saturday night, April 25, so tickets to that game are in the works.

Students will have to wait until the end of the week for information on potential artists.

But for now, John Bennett has only a few requests for the day.

“First of all, that the weather is nice,” Bennett said. “And that the students are civil to each other and enjoy the events that we call for them on campus.”

news Engineers Put Their Studies to Use in Cameroon

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Oct. 7, 2014

Continued From Page 1 ical engineer, has been an active part of the bridge project and remembers when she first heard about EWB at the college.

“When I found out Engineers Without Borders was basically outreach plus getting engineering experience, I thought, that’s amazing,” she said.

After a lot of fundraising, mostly on Facebook and their project website through EWB, a few members of the group embarked on their first trip of five to Cameroon this past March.

This was the assessment trip where three club students—Pecorini, Hot, and graduate civil engineer Carolyn Brazier— collected data on the area where the bridge would be constructed and interacted with the people of Mbirbu.

“I think the coolest part of it was that you could tell they were learning things along the way,” Pecorini said of their time surveying the area.

“When you’re surveying, you have to mark an area as a reference point so you can be consistent every time,” he said. “We had one marker in a mud area, and we told them [the villagers] how important it was to keep it there. And the next day when we came back, they had put a little palm gate around it, which meant that it was an act of God and no one should ‘mess with it.’”

Pecorini said one of the main reasons the villagers need the bridge is for the rainy season in the summer, when flood waters can rise up to four feet. The current bridge in use is made from branches and twigs.

This year the club leadership positions, at least concerning the project, are being handed down to undergraduate civil engineering students Nelson da Luz and Adam Rothman. The chapter’s professional mentor, Pat Arnett, a structural engineer at Robert Silman Associates, accompanied the students on the trip in March and has been meeting with da Luz, Rothman and Hot to work on the bridge design.

“Using data collected from the assessment trip this past March as well as using information from photos and video of the river where we are building the bridge, we have been able to more accurately design things such as the bridge height and length,” da Luz said of the designing.

Though the group originally planned to return to Cameroon this winter or spring to build the foundations for the bridge, they ultimately decided against it due to the current terrorism in Nigeria and the Ebola outbreak. In the meantime, they hope to continue fundraising as much as possible for the next trip, hopefully the year after, and for the ones beyond.

“They will need at least twice the amount of funds because the trip length

Above, members of Engineers Without Borders meet with local community members in Mbirbu. Below, a photo of the current bridge that the club is working to replace. Courtesy of the Engineers Without Borders Manhattan College Chapter Facebook page. will be at least doubled, since the upcom- understanding of the adaptive-ness and president, dealing with its general duties as ing trip entails the installation of the bridge flexibility needed to realize sustainable de- a resource for students. foundation,” said the chapter’s faculty ad- sign solutions in an international setting.”

“We volunteer for Habitat for Humanvisor Elizabeth Lennon, Ph.D., assistant ity in Breezy Point,” Lang said of how the Pecorini said the college’s chapter of professor of chemical engineering. club functions outside of the bridge project.

EWB acted mainly as a project-club over “Engineers Without Borders often the past three years, completely focusing “And then it’s just normal club things— works in regions of the world with less es- on the bridge project, and this year they we’re doing Safe Halloween, a mocktablished infrastructure and varying politi- have decided to change the structure to career fair on Monday, doing gingerbread cal climates, which can lead to unique chal- make sure it works as a regular campus bridges around the holidays—just anything lenges,” she said. “In developing solutions club as well. to drum up awareness and fundraising in to the original problem and emergent, unThough da Luz and Rothman are the general. Every little thing counts.” predictable challenges, students and faculty new project managers, junior civil enalike gain a much deeper appreciation and gineer Katie Lang is acting as the club’s

Fundraising for Student Commons Nearly Complete Continued From Page 1 gift to the construction of the commons was one of the largest contributions ever made in the history of the college.

As the leading donor for the commons, O’Malley also was given the opportunity to choose to formally name the new building after his 1963 classmate and former police commissioner of New York, Raymond Kelly. The name of the East Hill residence hall on campus was also recently changed to Lee Hall in order to honor O’Malley’s mother, Margaret Lee O’Malley.

Below O’Malley’s name on the donor wall is a contribution of over $1 million

by Gourmet Dining, the current supplier of dining and catering services to the college.

“When you look at the negotiations

with vendors, all vendors are expected to give to the college. It is something that they do,” Mauriello said.

The college frequently receives donations from vendors who have contracts with the school, both for special capital campaigns and routine fundraising efforts.

Mauriello explained that it is a practice that is not only standard for the college, but also customary for any businesses in contractual agreements with nonprofit institutions.

“With anybody who has a business relationship with the college, we have an expectation that they are going to support our vision, that they are going to support our mission,” Mauriello said. “We don’t really enter into any big contracts without a clear understanding that, because we are a not-for-profit, we expect them to support

our mission.”

In addition to O’Malley and Gourmet Dining, the list of notable donations includes $1 million from Verizon a gift between $500,000 and $1 million from Con Edison.

“Every name on that wall has a story,” Mauriello said.

The completion of the commons has been hailed by administration as the final stage of MC’s historical transition from a commuter college to being a primarily residential campus.

“The opening of the commons represents an exclamation point on the last 20 years of the college,” President Brennan O’Donnell said at the first senate meeting of the academic year.

Several other members of the MC

community feel the building successfully unites north and south campus.

"I love the way the new commons connects our campus,” Jean Marie Beckerle, senior special education major said.

“I always felt that when I would occasionally have a class in Leo, no one ever looked familiar. With the commons, all parts of campus really feel ‘on campus.’”

Alumni were overwhelmingly the source of funding for the commons capital campaign. Meghan Marro is a recent graduate of the class of 2013 who still resides in Riverdale and has been back on campus to see the finished commons.

"I think Manhattan spent their money very well. The school needed a slight upgrade and the student center is the perfect spot where anybody can go," Marro said.

3 news The Students Focus on Safety While Quadrangle Studying and Volunteering Abroad www.mcquad.org

Vol. 93 Issue 7 Oct. 7, 2014

Spain, England and France.

“When a student comes and tells us that Staff Writer he or she would like to study in a certain location, the first thing we do is we check As he navigates the world on a cruise the U.S. State Department website which ship, Benjamin Fisher, sophomore at Man- lists which countries have to be avoided,” hattan College, is stopping at various ports Wanger said. on his semester at sea and learning a little Mozambique, Yemen, Nigeria, Venezubit about other cultures as he goes. ela and Ukraine are just some of the places “I had the pleasure of spending an that the U.S. Department of State currently afternoon with a Russian man I met in a has travel warnings out for. café. He was in the Russian military and According to Wanger, the Study Abroad even allowed me to take a picture with his Office takes many precautions when stuhat on,” Fisher said. dents go abroad.

Fisher said, “When I asked him if he The office watches the news to keep up would be in the picture with me he refused with current events and keeps in touch with and said it could get him in a lot of trouble program directors abroad. if anyone saw.”

Wanger said that even if MC does not Studying abroad in college can be a have any students in a certain country, the unique experience depending on which international program directors still send destination a student chooses. However, MC’s study abroad staff updates on condidepending on the chosen destination, stu- tions in certain countries. dents can expect different safety concerns “So in that sense we are comfortable as well as historical events to present knowing that our students are not in danthemselves. ger. Also, we have a good insurance plan The Spanish vote for independence for the students and if there is some turwas a historical event that junior Sarah moil, we could bring them back,” Wanger DeCaro was able to experience as she is said. currently studying abroad in Barcelona.

“I have seen demonstrations but noth“I have not witnessed any violence ing that even hinted at violence. Most of while I have been here so far. When they the demonstrations were held by voters in had the march in Catalonia for the vote for the Yes campaign, but even then everyone independence, there was a very big group was very respectful and willing to talk and that participated, however no violence discuss their views,” Sokoli said. took place,” said DeCaro.

“I feel extremely safe while studying One of the biggest stories in recent abroad in Barcelona. I have actually never news was the Scottish Independence ref- felt more safe in my entire life. Everyone erendum that Elvis Sokoli, senior at the here is willing to help you if you ever have college, was able to be a part of during his a problem, and that is a very comforting 2014 fall semester abroad. feeling,” DeCaro said.

“There wasn't a person on the street, “I hate to talk so negatively about Rusyoung or old, that didn't have an opinion sian politics without mentioning that the on independence. And, no fault to Scot- Russian people were absolutely phenomland, but the morning after the vote was enal and very nice. Many seemed to undervery anti-climactic,” said Sokoli. stand the oppressive aspects of their govof Career Professor NonieOffice Wanger is the Pathways director ernment,” Fisher said. of the study abroad program at ManhatAnother program on campus that has tan College. With over 3,000 study abroad been affected by unpredictable internationprograms, students have seemingly end- al events is the Lasallian Outreach Volunless possibilities that go well beyond Italy, teer Experience (L.O.V.E.) program.

Office of Career Pathways

Kyleigh Panetta

The L.O.V.E. program goes to places like Haiti, Ecuador, El Salvador and multiple locations in the U.S. Jenn Edwards, coordinator of the L.O.V.E. program, said that she follows many of the same guidelines that the study abroad office follows including communicating with the directors of the international programs.

If a destination is determined to be unsafe, Edwards first tries to switch the destination of the trip. However, if that does not work, the L.O.V.E. trip could possibly be cancelled all together.

Edwards determined that the 2014 L.O.V.E. Kenya trip was too risky after the Nairobi Mall bombing on Sept. 21 of last year.

In this case, the 11 students, one chaperone and Edwards tried to establish connections with the De La Salle Christian Brothers in Ethiopia, which also did not work out due to growing threats targeting westerners.

“Most of the locations our L.O.V.E. programs go to are areas which have dire poverty, conflict and other issues that pose a threat to safety,” Edwards said.

The study abroad and L.O.V.E. programs both have potential safety concerns which is why the directors of these programs at MC are always alert and looking out for the safety of students.

“Sometimes there are manifestations in the countries students are in and they like to be there, to witness the events but sometimes it becomes violent,” Wanger said.

“Nowadays there is no safe place, look around Manhattan,” Wanger said.

Some advice that Wanger has for students traveling internationally is to always travel in groups, stay aware of their surroundings and to not attract attention as foreigners.

Wanger also tells students, “take a ‘big heavy suitcase full of common sense’ with you and just follow the instructions that directors give you.”

Center for Career Development

Business

expo

Jumpstart Your Career!

Explore career options. Discover opportunities. Network with key contacts.

View the full list of participating companies at manhattan.edu/BusinessExpo2014.

Seniors: Prepare for the Expo and get your résumé reviewed during walk-in hours.

tuESday, octoBEr 21 Smith auditorium 2:00 to 5:00 P.m.

Natalie E. Sullivan Editor-in-Chief Michelle DePinho Managing Editor/News Editor Michael Peyko Asst. News Editor Claire Leaden Managing Editor/Features Editor Kieran Rock Asst. Features Editor Natalie Heinitz Op/Ed Editor/Production Editor Maya Astabie Asst. Op/Ed Editor Lauren Carr Arts & Entertainment Editor Kelly Burns Asst. Arts & Entertainment Editor/ Production Editor Chris Cirillo Sports Editor Jonathan Reyes Asst. Sports Editor Jaclyn Marr Asst. Sports Editor Sean McIntyre Social Media Editor James O’Connor Photography Editor Sean Sonnemann Web Editor John Abbatangelo Sam Martin Editorial Cartoonists Daniel Molina Distribution Editor Joe Cutbirth, Ph.D. Faculty Adviser The Quadrangle is a news organization run by the students of Manhattan College.

The staff of The Quadrangle meets every Tuesday at 4:30 p.m. in room 412 of the Student Commons.

Contact The Quadrangle at thequad@manhattan.edu The opinions expressed in The Quadrangle are those of the individual writer and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Editorial Board, the College or the student body.

opinions & editorials

4

Oct. 7, 2014

NFL Domestic Violence Scandal: What is the Next Step?

Jaclyn Marr

Asst. Sports Editor “We’ve seen all too much of the NFL doing wrong. That starts with me,” Commissioner Roger Goodell said in a press conference.

It seems like whenever the National Football League is in the news these days, it is something negative. Stories of arrests and domestic violence cases are taking away from the game of football. Being a huge football fan myself, it’s disappointing to see what has been happening within the league. Something needs to be done about it, and it starts with Commissioner Goodell.

“I watch these guys play every week,” junior Rachel Harrison said. “It’s scary. I cannot believe that some of them can do this.”

Commissioner Goodell came under scrutiny during the Ray Rice incident. It remains unclear when exactly the league and Goodell had received the video of the domestic violence incident between Rice and his wife. Despite these reports coming out, Commissioner Goodell and the NFL gave Rice a two-game suspension, compared to players who have been punished for less

severe offenses not involving violence.

“It shows a hypocrisy in the punitive process of the NFL’s personal conduct policy,” senior Alexander Szivos said.

“Players get four-game suspensions for drug use but there are no guidelines on how to deal with domestic violence. It shows that they care more about what the players put into their bodies than what they do off the field, because the league makes money off their bodies,” Szivos said.

However, once the video came out to the public, the league decided to make a more significant move and Rice was suspended indefinitely. When unconfirmed reports came out that the league received the video right after the alleged incident happened, most of the public accused Goodell of withholding this information.

“He should be fired for sure,” Harrison said. “The only reason he did anything about it now is because the video got out.

That’s just unacceptable. These players aren’t anything special. They’re still human beings and should be held accountable for their actions.”

Domestic violence continues to be a major issue in our society. This goes beyond the NFL. However, the NFL should use its high profile to bring attention to domestic violence. Goodell announced upcoming chang-

es to the disciplinary process for players.

In addition, he revealed new partnerships between the league and the National Sexual Violence Resource Center, as well as the National Domestic Violence Hotline.

The hotline has since received an 84 percent increase in calls in just one week.

It is great that the league has been taking steps to make these changes. But they need to be making changes that are seen by the general public. For one, not many know about these new partnerships the league has. The league never did anything to make people aware. If they, for example, organized something during one of the games, the public would appreciate it more. Right now, they are seeing players still being accepted by the league.

They need to see the league stepping up and bringing attention to this societal problem. They need to see more than just suspending the player and trying to forget about it.

“I think that it is unfair,” junior Kassandra Pujols said. “I understand that he’s a public figure, but that was a personal matter between him and his wife. If she went on with the marriage, then that should not fully reflect on him as a player and his contribution to the team.”

“If they’re not cut from the team,” ju-

nior Giaunna Gwinn said, “it might seem like that is okay to do. If they’re not punished by the law, they should be punished somehow.”

In the end, the NFL domestic violence issue has to be resolved, and soon. The league needs to create stronger conduct policies in its player disciplinary process.

These recent cases of domestic violence against their players should not be taken lightly, like they have been. However, this goes much farther than within the NFL. Domestic violence needs to be addressed at the societal level. It is more than just an issue involving football players. Once domestic violence is addressed as a problem of society, changes will happen everywhere.

“The NFL is totally being viewed in a poorer light right now,” Gwinn said. “You said Ray Rice and I wasn’t sure if you were talking about the player who hit his wife or the one who hit his kid. That alone should say something.”

If Commissioner Goodell and the league make significant improvements soon, hopefully in the coming weeks, then they may be able to gain some respect back from the public.

Cartoon by Sam Martin.

Cartoon by John Abbatangelo.

opinions & editorials

The Ugliness of Beauty Pageants

5

Luke Hartman Staff Writer

“Miss America represents the highest ideals. She is a real combination of beauty, grace, and intelligence, artistic and refined. She is a type which the American Girl might well emulate."

Let’s take a minute to really look at this statement made by Atlantic City Chamber of Commerce President Frederick Hickman 75 years ago about who Miss America is and what she represents. According to the the pagaent’s official website, this sentiment rings true even today. If this in fact is true and believed by our country then we have a serious issue.

The Miss America Pageant has been an annual event present in the U.S. since 1920 and is almost a commonplace institution in our cultural identity. Based on poise, presentation, talent and intelligence, one young woman is given the task to travel and spread awareness about whatever campaign she chooses in order to empower the young women of America.

Looking, however, at the qualifications for Miss America and even the statement above, is this really the standard we hold women to?

Does this fit into how women should be viewed if we are attempting to move to an equalized society? What does this say about how we look not just at women but people in general? Essentially, is there a fundamental problem with the idea of a beauty pageant, and does it do more harm than good in terms of shattering the glass ceiling or empowering women?

Professors Bridget Chalk and Natalia Imperatori-Lee, who both are involved with the women and gender studies department on campus, shared their ideas and opinions about Miss America and general beauty pageants and how they shape the mindsets of women…and men.

“In general, I think beauty pageants participate in the ongoing objectification of women and I find it doubly disturbing in the fact that they start from such a young age,” Chalk said.

This is especially true looking at other reality programs such as “Honey Boo-Boo” or “Toddlers in Tiaras,” which instills from childhood, that without makeup, a fake tan and some revealing or skin tight garments, you are considered a second rate ugly woman or even normal.

“I don’t think it is useful to talk about things being against or for feminism. I think it is a red herring because it makes us argue what feminism is, rather the focus staying on the very real problem of sexism,” Imperatori-Lee said.

“I am a fan of beauty pageants because I like watching fashion, and looking at dresses, the same way I am a fan of Fashion Week. I am not however uncritically a fan of them. By my enjoying looking at dresses at fashion week, and in pageants, I am participating in the commodification of women’s bodies,” Imperatori-Lee said.

This commodification is a big part of Miss America due to the presence of the eveningwear and swimwear competitions.

This makes up half of the segments shown on television on what these women are being judged on.

“I saw a clip of the pageant discussing the winner and the general shot was the line of women in bikinis and just seeing that suggests that there is no way to argue that this is a method of empowerment. This is a competition that requires women to put particular costumes on to display the body,

Miss America 2014 Nina Davuluri and Miss America 2015 Kira Kazantsev at their respective competitions.

Photos courtesy of Creative Commons. which doesn’t break down any barriers be- negative entity they are supporting at the only be a certain way because that is the cause they are following guidelines insti- same time. kind of product people want. It is not betuted by someone else,” Chalk said.

“I think that women can continue the cause women aren’t sexually turned on by “There is no question that this is objec- propagation of other women, but women visuals or men are only this way. Both men tification. We are watching on a stage in a contestants whether they are aware of it and women are capable of being superfispotlight what happens to women every- or not are performing for the male gaze. It cially attracted to someone and both men where they go. They are judged on their is the same thing as like the cover of Cos- and women are capable of being profoundappearance, they are judged on their poise, mopolitan magazine. It is a publication for ly attracted to someone that is beyond the they are judged on their quick responses to women but the women on the front of it are physical which is an argument I hear all the questions and it all remains on a superficial posed seductively, so there is a disconnect time,” Imperatori-Lee said. level. No one wants to be judged this way, there. This highlights an extremely pervaGoing back to the initial quote from the because it sets up impossible standards. In sive social dynamic, which is that we all Miss America website, it seems as if, subMiss Universe, a lot of those women have look at women through the male gaze as consciously, there is an encouragement for plastic surgery to make themselves ‘more sexual objects,” Chalk said. all women to aspire to be one certain imbeautiful.’ That doesn’t seem like an em“While there is a focus on education, age. As long as you are skinny, have shiny powering message,” Imperatori-Lee said. charity and presentation…. none of them hair, can smile nicely, walk in heels with“I don’t think that Miss America is have cellulite so there really is no way one out tripping, say a couple intelligent senin any way empowering. I think they say could realistically argue that this is empow- tences about current events and regardless this to get people to watch it, or just make ering or different from Miss America of the of race, fit into the Euro-Western idea of themselves feel better. Ultimately, I think 50s. Again though, it isn’t any worse than beautiful, you are going to do great in life it is a money-making machine like every- any of the other reality TV programs we and be successful. thing that is on television. I don’t think it consume. It is just older so people confuse “In these sort of competitions there are is any way empowering to women to have it with tradition and people are reluctant to no different body types, there aren’t enough them be judged on superficial means. At get rid of it,” Imperatori-Lee said. minority bodies, so it is not empowering at the same time, so many things on TV are Another interesting aspect to look at, all to the majority of women,” Imperatorisuperficial. If ‘Survivor’ or ‘The Bachelor- especially if we are looking at the issue of Lee said. ette’ said it was empowering people, we gender equality, is the male role in all of “The notion of a beauty pageant is just wouldn’t believe it, so we don’t need this. Why isn’t there a male equivalent to flawed from the outset. What is beauty? to believe it about beauty pageants,” Im- Miss America? How does a women’s com- Do you know what is a great beauty pagperatori-Lee said. petition whether beauty or otherwise im- eant? The spelling bee. It is a real triumph However, many feminists argue that pact the participatory men? How does this of what humans can do. What if we had an Miss America, while predominantly fo- contribute to a hierarchical dualism? anti-beauty pageant for people who defy cused on the exterior, lets women speak “I find that any sort of pageant that traditional notions of beauty but never the out for platforms they believe in, and show judges women against each other for other less are profoundly beautiful. Even the that they are more than just a pretty face. talents, especially if it isn’t present for men Dove Real Body campaigns are annoying Nikki Gloudeman in an article for Rav- is extremely offensive, because then wom- saying ‘Oh, you are so great chubby girl’ is ishly.com said, “What do all these wom- en seem to be on display as objects. Any not an empowering message because still en--women any feminist would be proud sort of competitive pageant in that sense your body defines you. There is so much to support--have in common? They're all suggests that women need to fit into a cer- more that goes into being a person,” ImperMiss Americas. And here's the thing: The tain mold in order to succeed. Actually any atori-Lee said. fact that they participated in a, yes, pretty sort of competition that is solely gender Looking to the future, is there really ridiculous, beauty pageant doesn't detract specific suggests that they can’t compete any place for Miss America or beauty pagfrom their entirely worthy accomplish- equally, which is also problematic,” Chalk eants in general if we indeed want to work ments or their right to be an icon for other said. towards a society where women and men women.”

“Men’s bodies are not products for sale share equal rights and are looked at in the This is also something to look at. The in the way women’s bodies are. Men look same way? Pretty sure that the answer is a women who participate are all smart, edu- a thousand different ways and are protago- resounding no, no, no and once again no. cated and passionate about making a posi- nists. You can be tall or short, fat or skinny, tive change on society. It is hard though bald, ugly whatever and still get praise, but to be fully on board when looking at the that doesn’t exist for women. Women can

6

features

The College Cost

Oct. 7, 2014

Working on Campus

Kieran Rock

Asst. Features Editor College costs a lot. Somewhere between books, food, concert tickets, metro cards and other endless things that cost money in New York City, the bill starts to add up.

Students are spending money every day and that money is bound to run out eventually, so how are students supporting themselves? For some, the answer might be savings from a summer job. For others, parents might be covering certain expenses. One of the most common ways college students make money is through campus employment.

There are a lot of different places students can work on campus. From the mailroom to tour guides, almost anyone could find a job they like. For senior Ian Rhatigan, who has been working on campus in the admissions office since freshman year, getting an on-campus job has allowed him to continue enjoying himself while at school.

“I got a work-study job because I had to. In all seriousness, I got one to help with tuition and for money to spend while I’m at school,” Rhatigan said. As a tour guide, he shows prospective MC students around the campus, and when he’s not giving tours he’s completing office duties.

While the work-study job is a way to make money to spend during the semester, it also has made some connections for Rhatigan. “I’ve been a tour guide since my freshman year, and it has definitely been a positive experience. Many of the tour guides have become some of my closest friends,” he said.

Sophomore computer science major Alanna Hupe has found that her on-campus job with ITS client services offers both a chance to make some money and an opportunity to apply her learning.

“I really thought that ITS would be a way to make some money and also be a way to implement some of my skills to help people. And it’s a way to learn and gain experience,” Hupe said.

While she enjoys what she does at work, Hupe does think that having a job on campus has taken up some of her time.

“It’s taken up some time for sleep, but just in general time that I would be studying or doing things that don’t require me to fix people’s computers,” she said.

Sophomore Linda Barr began working this semester for the Center for Academic Success as an e-portfolio facilitator. The eportfolio program is new on campus this year. Barr works with an Arches class to help them prepare e-portfolios, which she describes as “a supplement to a resume.”

Barr saw the opportunity to work on campus as a chance for a good experience.

“I’ve wanted to get a job for a while and I was recommended for this one by a professor,” Barr said. “It seemed like a good job because I’m an education major and I thought this would give me good teaching practice.”

Another sophomore, Alexa Wroblewski, began working on campus this semester too. Wroblewski took a job catering with Gourmet Dining as a way to make money during the semester.

“I think having a job on campus will be really great because I don't have to go far to do my job,” she said. “The convenience is my favorite part, so instead of sitting in my dorm, I could make a few bucks.”

Wroblewski is planning to study abroad in Spain next semester and will use the money she earns on campus for the trip.

She doesn’t expect to stop working after her semester abroad though.

“I expect to hold this job for the next couple years, if possible,” she said.

As she just began her job, she is learning the ropes and getting excited for what is to come.

“My first day wasn't too bad but I know I have to wear comfortable shoes from now on,” Wrokblewski added.

On-campus employment allows a student to make money to sustain themselves without even having to leave MC. Whether students work in the tutoring center, the admissions office, the library, for Gourmet Dining or ITS, the opportunity to make money and gain work experience is usually

Professor Chat Suzanne Rudnick

Dorian Persaud, a math tutor at the Center for Academic Success and office assistant for the President’s Office, is one of many students at MC who has an on-campus job.

Photo by James O’Connor. a good one. job and you have much more time for it,” Of course with classes to worry about Hupe said. and the other important things that come If students can come to balance the with being a college student, sometimes a pressures of school, friends and an onjob on or off campus can be a struggle. campus job, they will not only be making “It can be extremely stressful working money but they will be getting experience during the school year, because you’re try- that will help them during their time at MC ing to balance a social life and five classes. and beyond in the real world.

During the summer you are just doing the

Kelly Burns

Asst. A&E Editor/Production Editor This week’s “Professor Chat” is with Suzanne Rudnick, professor of biochemistry. Rudnick can be found teaching Biochemistry I, Topics in Science II and Fundamentals of Science I this semester. Read on to find out a little more about your professor.

Q: Why are you a professor in the subject you are?

A: I’ve always enjoyed science from the time I was a child. The natural world has always fascinated me and this is just an extension of that.

Photo of Professor Rudnick courtesy of Manhattan College website.

Q: What is your favorite part about MC? A: Probably the sense of community here. The classes are small enough and interaction with students is often enough that you really do feel that you are a part of their development as students and ultimately as professionals. You’ll only get that at a small college, which is not going to happen in a major university. If you put 300 people in a classroom there’s no interaction with the professors. I can look back now at students who I’ve had in the past who have

been very successful in biochemistry and feel happy for them that they’ve been successful and proud that we, Manhattan College, have been able to make a difference in their lives.

Q: What is your biggest student pet peeve (if you have one)?

A: Cellphones in class. It’s very straightforward; I have one, you have one, we wouldn’t want to be without them but when they’re in class and they’re on and you see students who are paying more attention to their phones than they are to you, it is distracting.

Q: Where can you be found on the weekends?

A: Going to library book sales, biking on the various rail trails around the area or hiking in the many state parks.

Q: What is your favorite thing to read (book, newspaper, magazine, etc.)?

A: Probably books. I tend toward nonfiction books, particularly history books and books about American social history intrigue me. Of course there’s professional reading but that’s different than leisure reading. I wish I had more time for leisure reading because I find the most intriguing books at library book sales.

features From Students to Humanitarians: The Post-Grad World of Lasallian Volunteers Tara Marin

The Freshman Files Midterm Mania Ally Hutzler

Staff Writer

For each Jasper here at Manhattan College, there is some kind of vision for the future. Most students’ post-graduation plans involve going right into their career of choice or attending graduate school.

Life might keep them here in New York, or it may take them somewhere completely different so they can pursue our dreams.

Whether they have discovered it yet or not, all students have a passion, and for some students that passion is to selflessly give to others. Luckily, these students have the opportunity to do exactly that through the Lasallian Volunteer Program.

This program of the De La Salle Christian Brothers was founded in 1988 with a mission to administer devoted and qualified volunteers to serve the poor.

Graduate volunteers dedicate themselves to one or more years of service in schools or agencies in various states across the country.

Current senior Lindsey Pamlanye is planning on becoming a Lasallian Volunteer (LV) in San Francisco. She admits that prior to attending college, she was unaware of who the Christian brothers were and had never even heard the word “Lasallian” before, but coming here was what opened doors for her.

Her first education class with Brother Gus brought her to the realization that she was best at working with students, and she credits most of her growth to the brothers who taught her about education and the importance of giving.

“Lasallians are about coming together and doing what you do best, the best you can, so you can help do something or help some person who needs what only you can give,” Pamlanye said.

After four years of being inspired by the stories of current volunteers and also participating in a L.O.V.E. trip to a volunteer site, Pamlanye is itching to become a part of the program and says the LV community could not get rid of her if they tried.

“The Lasallian connection is very real, and it's not something you can just let go of,” she said. “I would be happy working for students within this community, fueled by the Lasallian mission, for I think a long, long time. In the end, I just want to be a really good teacher for kids who otherwise might not have one, because they deserve it.”

Carlos Orbe, who graduated from MC last spring, is in his first year of volunteering in Portland, Ore. He serves as the IT and media representative at De La Salle North Catholic High School, and his duties will progress into tutoring, substituting and coaching.

“Many people tend to overlook the beauty that life has to offer,” Orbe explained. “My hope, as a volunteer, is to take some of the load off of others so they can experience all the things that I have come to love about life.”

Although the application process was long and the current work can be challenging, he tells us it was one of the best decisions of his life.

“Seeing these kids having to beat the odds on a daily basis and show up to school has truly changed me internally,” he said when discussing the realizations he has made while volunteering.

“We tend to overlook the basic gifts we are blessed with daily when we walk

7

Staff Writer

Above: Megan McShane with two of her students at the De LaSalle Gala in St. Louis.

Below: Megan taking a selfie with her students during theater class.

Photos courtesy of Megan McShane. the quad, take the train downtown, and eat the mediocrity of Locke's. But these kids would kill for an opportunity of this nature to show the talents they have and eat the food that we are given in surplus amounts.”

Ivy Seraphin is another MC alum from the class of 2014 who has been working as an LV in Racine, Wis for the past month.

She offers support to both middle school and high school students at the John XXIII Educational Center.

“When I found out I was placed in Racine, I was really nervous,” she said. “I've never lived in the Midwest before this and the thought of being a plane ride away from my family and friends was rather upsetting for me. But, the Lasallian Volunteer program tries to place you at sites where you are best suited, and with my interests and background in psychology, it seemed perfect that I would be facilitating support groups with middle schoolers.”

Seraphin said the experience has been very positive for her so far and she looks forward to the rest of her time there.

Megan McShane, class of 2013, is a current LV at a school in St. Louis, Mo. She explained that the application process was very intense, involving difficult questions and two interviews.

Moving to St. Louis was also a severe

culture shock for her and she initially felt very isolated and scared, but has grown to love it.

“I have had a kid tell me that I helped him understand how to control his anger and helped him grow up. He said I was one of the first teachers who really cared about him. That was pretty powerful,” McShane said.

Volunteering has also made her aware of the importance of education, and she plans on working in education with students in low-income areas.

Clare O'Connell, also from the class of 2013, serves as a math tutor at De LaSalle High School in Minneapolis, Minn., and has had revelations very similar to McShane's.

“Living in a community has taught me a lot about who I am and how I communicate with others. Living in a faith-based community and serving at a Catholic high school has helped me grow tremendously in my faith,” O'Connell said.

If students are interested in becoming a volunteer and want to find out more, visit lasallianvolunteers.org, and also visit the college website under “Campus Ministry and Social Action” to read more testimonials from other alumni.

October is finally here. While there is nothing like fall in New York, we can’t enjoy the crisp autumn weather just yet. Midterms are just around the corner, as well as the potential loss of our sanity.

Midterm week is a bi-annual occurrence where caffeine is your best friend and the library is the coolest place to be on a Friday night. Juniors and seniors probably have this week down pat, but for us freshmen, you could say that we are freaking out a bit.

We still aren’t used to staying up until 3 a.m. to study or reading for hours about religion or economics. Plus, finding the right routine or the perfect study spot can be just as tough as memorizing those chemical formulas or philosophical theories.

So we asked a few students around campus to share with us how are they studying, where are they studying and how are they feeling.

“I am preparing for all four midterms by reviewing my notes and trying to make sure I understand the material as I learn it,” freshman Lauren Wiater said.

Her favorite study spot on campus is a desk cubby in the library, preferably with a hot cup of coffee in hand.

“I am a little freaked out, just because they are the first major exams I will take in college,” Wiater continued. “I did not have midterms in high school, just mid-year grades, I don’t know what to expect.”

And she is not alone. Steven Carlucci, another freshman at MC, also expressed his worries about these exams.

“Compared to high school, there are a lot less questions on these tests, so each problem will be worth more,” he said.

“There is very little room for error and it’s nerve-wracking.”

Many students combat these concerns by spending some time studying every day and trying not to procrastinate.

“I’m going to study for each of my classes for an hour or two every day,” said Akash Patel, a newcomer to MC’s track team this fall.

Gianni Cedeno, while agreeing with the other students, shares some of his own study tips.

“Do practice problems for classes like math and science. You can’t always get better by reading, you have to practice too,” he said.

Cedeno, like Waiter, prefers a desk cubby in O’Malley library to get his work done.

“The personal outlet spots allow me to get so much done because they limit distractions,” he said.

WebMD suggest drinking black tea to reduce stress and anxiety and several other websites propose stretching, getting some exercise, eating well and getting plenty of sleep. There is no shortage of sources willing to give you helpful advice on how to handle the stress and pressure of midterms.

Just breathe and try new things until you find what works for you. Maybe you do your best when you wake up early and study before class, or perhaps you get more done at the bakery across the street instead of in the library.

So, get off of Facebook and open a textbook – it’s midterm season.

8

arts & entertainment

Fresh at the Met

Oct. 7, 2014

Ally Hutzler Staff Writer

As summer draws to a close, museums around the city are cleaning out the old and bringing in the new. Here’s a look at the most recent exhibitions on display at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Thomas Struth: Photographs This exhibit portrays why Thomas Struth is perhaps the most influential photographer of the last half century and one of the key figures in bringing photography into the world of contemporary art. His work hit close to home for us at MC as a dozen images showcased in the exhibit are from his “Streets of New York” series including crisp, black and white photos of cityscapes devoid of people. Larger, 5 by 7 foot color photographs including Times Square and the Berlin Wall are also focal points of the exhibit. Thomas Struth: Photographs is on display until February 2015.

The Art of the Chinese Album This exhibition showcases the album the most personal form of Chinese painting. There has never been a Chinese album on display at the Met until now. Dr. Joseph Scheier-Dolberg, assistant curator, suggests that this is because the exhibit is very demanding of the viewer. The structure of the album is similar to that of a book, with pages that unfold a journey while surprising the viewer at every turn. The centerpiece of the exhibition is “Returning Home” by Shiato, a story of a man who retires the pursuit of fame and fortune to follow his dream as a painter.

The Art of the Chinese Album is on display until March 2015.

Assyria to Iberia at the Dawn of the Classical Age The exhibition opens at the end of the Bronze Age and the beginning of the Iron Age. The magnificently immense showroom – with about 260 works of art including stone reliefs, ceramics and jewelry – examines the interconnected world with networks of trade that extended as far as the Atlantic Ocean. It has attracted heavy traffic as it focuses on a part of the world that is prevalent in our media and

society today – the Near East, or the Middle East. Assyria to Iberia at the Dawn of the Classical Age is on display until January 2015.

Thomas Hart Benton’s America Today Mural Rediscovered The focal point of the exhibit is the epic ten-panel mural painted by Benton in 1931 to adorn a building on West 12th Street, New York. The mural, depicting a sweeping panorama of American life during the 1920s, is one of Benton’s most renowned works and one of the most significant accomplishments in American art from the time period. The piece is accompanied by a wider range of works from the museum that closely relate, including works from Jackson Pollock. America Today is on display until April 2015.

Kimono: A Modern History The exhibition explores the complex history of the kimono and its transformation from an everyday garment to a special occasion outfit to an international icon of Japanese culture. With about 50 robes on display and dim lighting, the showroom environment is similar to that of a fashion show. The exhibit offers insight in how

check us out...

Quad 2.0 mcquad.org

Ally Hutzler Staff Writer

MET visitors take in the new exhibits at the museums. Photos By Ally Hutzler this piece of clothing influenced culture, propaganda and even society norms throughout the centuries. Kimono: A Modern History is on display until January

2015.

Visit metmuseum.org to check out upcoming exhibits and to plan your next trip.

Arts & Entertainment

Cinema at MC:

9

The Film Society on Campus John Abbatagelo & Amy Cardoza

Editorial Cartoonist & Staff Writer The Film Society is a student run group that many people overlook or don’t know about. Every year they congregate and the board of students votes on films within a central theme. The theme changes annually and this year’s theme is memory. The main goal of the society is to try and find films that students enjoy watching and talking about.

They encourage cinematic discussion and formed for people who love film, but may not be able to take film classes, like engineers or students with rigid schedules.

“People might think it’s for film minors or something, but the basic premise of the club is for students to watch and learn about different films by talking about them,” says Leah Cordova, one of the advisory board members.

The Film Society is an academic club advised by Margaret Toth, Ph.D. and associate professor of English, and although they don’t have a set meeting schedule, they usually host screenings in Hayden 100.

Film is more important than just entertainment. It is a source of a cult following and devote familiarity that is

considered paramount in its role in shaping parts of society, especially among younger people. Halloween is fast approaching and anyone bold enough to don the costume of their favorite movie character may be right near you for sure. Some people are huge cinephiles, or very faithful moviegoers and viewers.

Quotes from these fans’ favorite flicks are in some cases the lifeblood of their little groups and can be taken both in comedic taste and downright seriously. For everyone else, movies still remain a noteworthy source of intrigue and fascination.

“Just like novels, music and painting are unique mediums, film has its own way of accessing and communicating ideas,” assistant Sarah Scott, assistant professor of philosophy and faculty adviser to the Film Society said. “Watching a film, we enter into a new way of relating to the world around us. Because most film is designed for communal watching it’s natural to enhance the experience by discussing it with others in venues such as the film society.”

The idea that a film can offer one a new perspective on something, often better than other forms of communication, is one thrill that cinema offers. It is one component the Film Society takes a look at.

“Film, like any art form, can be a lens through which we understand ourselves

and our relationships with the world,” Evelyn Scaramella, Ph.D. and assistant professor of modern languages, said. She is another adviser on the board of the society.

“We show films from a variety of cultures, genres, and periods of history in order to get our members to become engaged with the social, political, ethical, and/or historical issues at play in that particular film.”

For those that wish to take a more elaborate look, the Film Society “discuss[es] the composition of the films we screen, which is a useful tool in helping students to think critically about the aesthetics of art in general,” Scaramella said.

This year’s theme of memory will feature movies that all have common elements of memories.

While Toth and the club are still in the process of finalizing the schedule for this year’s series, films and their accompanying discussions like “Paris is Burning” (Oct. 29), “Memento” (Nov. 18), “V for Vendetta,” “Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind” and a week-long film festival on war films and memory sometime during the spring are all set in the running. Other films like “Shutter Island” and “Dazed and Confused” are front-runners in the student-proposed film categories. The club seeks to have one student presenter per semester.

The Film Society is also working hard on expanding.

“If there are any budding filmmakers, directors, writers or actors out there, we want them to join us,” Cordova said.

The society is also in the planning process of creating a student film festival for the spring semester that will spotlight student filmmakers on campus, which is why they are interested with any available talent on campus. Advertising will begin before the end of the semester.

Ideally, they want to be able to get speakers relative to the film industry, such as directors and screenwriters to speak about their professions.

They would also like to host screenwriting workshops and provide more opportunities for people to not simply watch films but discuss and learn about them.

The Film Society is a small group of people who want to share the cinematic experience with the Manhattan College community while discussing the elegance, beauty, intelligence, and other various characteristics of a film. If you are interested in any more information on Film Society or want to join yourself, email Kelly Cousins, Deonta Wortham or Toth.

arts & entertainment

10

Oct. 7, 2014

Today’s Folk Music Sean Sonnemann Web Editor

The arrival of fall brings with it crisp temperatures that quickly remove any remaining traces of those beloved sunny summer months. Plus, by the time October rolls around, school is unequivocally back in session. In the northeast, there is also the usual autumnal revival of foliage, farmers markets and, of course, flannel. It only seems fitting that Jasper Jams continues the alliteration with a look this week at contemporary folk music.

The word “folk” is a loaded term in the music world. Some might argue that it refers to 60s-era rock songs by the likes of Bob Dylan and Pete Seeger, often heavy with social commentary and words of protest. Others could claim folk means music traditional to specific ethnicities and national heritages.

In recent years, folk has loosely been used to describe a certain strain of indie bands whose styles blur the lines of conventional genres. You know the sound when you hear it: heavy acoustic instrumentation featuring banjos and fiddles, toe-tapping melodies and lyrics fit for hearty group sing-alongs.

The Lumineers and Mumford & Sons have easily been two of the most visible artists that meet this description. Here are some other musicians that also blend elements of country, blues, rock and bluegrass to create a sound suitable for the fall months.

1) Boy Named Banjo I first discovered Boy

Named

Banjo several years ago when I found their noteworthy cover of Passion Pit’s “Sleepyhead” on a music blog. The group began while three of the original members were still friends in high school down in Tennessee. Their first album “The Tanglewood Sessions” was actually recorded before they even graduated. Now in college and five men strong, the band brings with them a mellow backwoods sound centered on the twangy pickings of their namesake instrument. Check Out: “Bound for Leavin’” and “19” 2) Vance Joy You might recognize Vance Joy’s hit song, “Riptide.” A native of Australia, the singer mixes up the conventional singersongwriter style with folk instruments and even the occasional ukulele. He recently released his second album “Dream Your Life Away” a few weeks ago. While of course musically strong, Vance Joy’s strength lies in his powerful vocals and poetic lyrics. They wind up lingering in your head after just one listen. Check Out: “From Afar” and “Mess is Mine” 3) Shovels & Rope A duo out of South Carolina, Shovels & Rope consists of married couple Michael Trent and Cary Ann Hearst. More on the blues and rock side of folk music, the pair’s work sometimes has a heavier, darker, more electric sound than some of the other artists featured on this list. Hearst’s rich voice usually dominates most tracks, but the two complement each other well. Check Out: “Birmingham” and “Save the World”

Boy Named Banjo performs. Photo Courtesy of Creative Commons just how broad the folk genre is today.

4) Jamestown Revival Check Out: “California (Cast Iron Soul)” Another duo, Jamestown Revival is and “Wandering Man” made up of childhood friends Jonathan Clay and Zach Chance. The twosome’s As always, be sure to check online at music is thick with Americana and hearty mcquad.org to find this week’s and past folk-rock melodies. Their latest album editions of Jasper Jams, including several “Utah” was allegedly recorded in a cabin in bonus tracks not found in print. Each of the Wasatch Mountains of that very state. them includes a carefully crafted Spotify The tracks from that album run the full playlist to make it easy for you to listen spectrum of blues, roots rock and Western along and enjoy some great music. country. It serves as a fitting example of

2014 Science, Technology, engineering and MaTheMaTicS

Tuesday, October 7 DraDDy Gymnasium | 12:00 to 4:00 p.m. professional dress required for all students

Set the foundation for your future! Some of the participating companies are:

résumé review Walk-in hours 2:30-4pm monday – thursday in miguel room 500 and Leo room 258. for more info contact careerdevelopment@manhattan.edu or call us at 718-862-7224. for the list of registered employers, visit: manhattan.edu/stemcareerfair2014

the 2014 career fair is sponsoreD by The aluMni SocieTy anD The cenTer for career developMenT.

sports

Jaspers Fall Short Against Gaels

11

Senior Aislinn McIlvenny had just one shot in the loss against the Gaels. Photo taken by Lauren Lamantina.

Jaclyn Marr

Asst. Sports Editor Coming off of its first MAAC win of the season against Marist, the Manhattan women’s soccer team saw the other side quickly.

Competing against the Iona Gaels gave the Jaspers its first MAAC loss of the season. The Jaspers fell 1-0 to the Gaels at Mazzella Field. Iona is 5-6-2 so far

and 1-1-1 in the MAAC. Manhattan now stands at 6-4-1 and 1-1-1 against MAAC opponents.

The first half remained even until Iona scored just before the game went into halftime. The Jaspers earned a corner kick in the last minute. Junior Kristen Skonieczny saved the first shot, however, Iona’s Erika Flowers got one past her in the last second before the halftime whistle.

Manhattan started off strong in the second half with some good chances early

on. Then, its defense stepped up and came up big later in the half. Iona’s Marisa Bentley shot about 25 minutes into the half but it was cleared off the goal line. Shortly after, junior Colleen Kavanagh had a couple strong shots but Iona goalkeeper Morgan McBrier was able to come up with the saves. Kavanagh struck once again in the waining minutes of the game. However, McBrier had the save again.

Skonieczny had seven saves for the Jaspers and they tallied five shots on goal

against McBrier. The Gaels, however, led Manhattan in shots total, 22-9. They outshot the Jaspers 8-6 in the second half, but the Jasper defense was able to keep it a one-goal game.

Manhattan returns to action on October 8 when they host the defending MAAC champion Monmouth Hawks. The Hawks (3-1 MAAC, 8-4) are going into the game with a two-game winning streak after beating Saint Peter’s and Niagara.

This Week In Sports On Oct. 1, it was a disappointing day for Manhattan Jaspers’ sports: women’s soccer lost at Iona 0-1, men’s soccer were shutout for a fourth straight game, 0-2, at Marist and volleyball lost 1-3 at Stony Brook.

On Oct. 4, volleyball lost 2-3 at Rider and at Saint Peter’s.

As of noon on Oct. 5, men’s soccer (0-1 MAAC, 1-5-1) is tied for last place out of 11 teams in the MAAC standings.

Women’s soccer (1-1-1 MAAC, 6-4-1) is tied for fifth in the MAAC out of 11 teams. Volleyball (2-3 MAAC, 8-8) is tied for fourth in the MAAC out of 10 teams.

of the Week Malia McGuiness: She recorded her 1,000th career dig against Rider on Saturday. She is the fifth volleyball player in Manhattan history to have 1,000 digs and kills.

Kristen Skonieczny: Despite the loss, the women’s soccer goalie made seven saves against Iona.

She has given up multi-goals just once in the past nine games.

sports

Back of the Net:

12

Jaspers Struggle on Offense

Jonathan Reyes Asst. Sports Editor

Author’s Note: As MAAC play enters its second week, the “Back of the Net” biweekly column plans to give inside access to Manhattan Jaspers men’s soccer outside of game coverage.

At about the mid-point part of their season, the Manhattan Jaspers have been shutout in their last four games, a total of 402 minutes.

They need a goal and soon.

What’s Going On? What can be done?

Jasper freshman are developing and their strength to possess the ball as a team has helped in creating a number of goal chances. Neither are the problems that they are dealing with.

The main problem is something head coach Jorden Scott has emphasized at team practices: playing more of an attacking style.

They are tied for 11th out of 11 MAAC teams with an average of 0.50 goals per game and ninth with 12.83 shots on goal per game. This makes them a whole two goals behind the No. 1 goal scoring team in the conference the Rider Broncs, who are averaging 2.43 goals per game and third with 14.86 shots on goal.

Broncs head coach Charlie Inverso said for his team it starts with personnel.

He said he has nine players who are scoring, automatically placing opposing teams in a bind because there is not one player who can be focused on.

“The more adept you are and the more guys that you have that can score in different ways, the better off you’re going to be,” said Inverso. “If basically all you’re relying on is just one guy or one way of scoring, you’re going to be easier to stop.”

Inverso said the troubles that schools like Manhattan and Rider face is that a 6-foot-2 inch striker who can score goals willingly is not coming anytime soon.

“They’re hard to find,” Inverso said.

“As much progress as we’ve made in developing players in this country, we still

have a long way to go and often times the guys that are really gifted in this country aren’t going to go to mid-major school like Rider or Manhattan. Often times it’s just not going to happen. And if you do happen to have a kid from this country with that gift, he’s usually turning pro instead of going to college.”

Scott has said he is instead trying to develop a player with goal scoring “instinct.”

An interesting and smart way to work around the political obstacle low to midmajor college athletics comes across.

“We’re just missing our final piece of the jigsaw, individual abilities not moments,” said Scott, “and there are so many things that factor into that moment that it’s hard to train that one specific thing.”

A couple of possibilities could be sophomore Daniel Laguna Kennedy and freshman Joe Hulme, though Hulme is much more comfortable on the defensive side of the ball. Hulme should get a lot more attention solely because of his breathtaking natural ability to cut and slash his way through defenders quickly and fluidly.

But junior captain Alex Shackley said no one has emerged just yet.

“Right now, we’re struggling to find that guy,” Shackley said.

Most of the Jaspers see Kennedy as “that guy.”

“More often than not, he is the one with the opportunity, and so I think that he has to burden some of that,” said Scott.

Although he did acknowledge that the offensive production couldn’t all be placed on Kennedy and that others must contribute.

Until “that guy” and those goals come along, the Jaspers have to keep focus on soccer, fundamentals and ball movement to build confidence.

Scott said goal scoring for them is going to happen one of two ways.

“It’s either going to be a moment of brilliance or going to be an absolute disaster of a mistake by the other team,” Scott said. “It’s one or the other. There’s nothing in between for us at the moment.”

And senior Andrew Santos said it does not matter how pretty the goal looks as long as it goes into the back of the net.

“It’s just going to take one goal off

Sam Washuk

Tommy Amos, Alex Shackley and Alex Coates McDowall during player introductions before the first game of the year at Lehigh. Photo taken by Jonathan Reyes your knee, your back, your shoulder,” Santos said. “You just got to see the ball go through the net.”

Senior captain Tommy Amos is encouraged by the goal chances that have come their way.

“We’ve created our chances, we’re getting them and we know soon they’ll drop,” said Amos.

As for Kennedy he thinks they have just been “unlucky.”

“We’ve hit a couple of crossbars,” said Kennedy. “But this also happened last season…. So once everything clicks on, I think we’ll be fine.”

MAAC Play Week Two and Beyond With week two of MAAC play already upon the Jaspers, Scott said he is looking to get a road win especially against the Monmouth Mountainhawks because he said they could be one of the top teams in the conference.

“That’s like the test,” Scott said.

The further the Jaspers get into conference play his message to them is simple.

“It’s a race to five wins. Do we want to win the conference? Absolutely,” he said.

“But let’s get to five wins first and then deal with it afterward because five wins gets you into top six guaranteed.”