The Swinging Bridge Magazine: October 2015

Suicide, Stress, and Semi-Colons; PAGE 12

Halloween on Campus PAGE 6

Volume 96 // Edition 2 // October 2015

Tuition and Athletics PAGE 28

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LetterfromtheEditor Volume 96 // Edition 2 // Oct 2015

Swinging Bridge Magazine Staff Student Director Assistant Student Director Editor-in-Chief Online Editor Student Life Editor Culture Editor Sports & Rec Editor Design Managers Design Assistants Audio/Visual Manager Audio/Visual Assistants Business Manager Social Media Manager Web Manager

Alexandra Coonradt David Broomell Maddie Crocenzi Bree Whitelock Rose Talbot Mimi Pedercini Ashlyn Miller Megan Dobinson Abbey Wylie James Gibbons April Nguyen Lindsay Corriveau Becca Simon Ryan Emerick Josh Husmann Jessalyn Megerle Erin Zakin From left: Suzanne Brothers, Maddie Crocenzi, Jody Brant, and Terri Gross

Monday – Friday | 1pm – 5pm (717) 766-2511 ext. 6081 1 College Avenue Suite 3058 Mechanicsburg, PA 17055 (Downstairs South Wing of the Larsen Student Union)

The Swinging Bridge Magazine is published through The Pulse: Messiah College Media Hub, run by students. The Pulse consists of Pulse FM, The Clarion yearbook, The Swinging Bridge Magazine and social media to keep you informed. The Swinging Bridge staff strives to publish quality student writing, photography, and design. To learn about job and volunteer opportunities, email thepulse@ messiah.edu.

Every year, I face October with a sense of boundless excitement. I don’t even mind admitting that I fulfill every fall stereotype. I like corn mazes, apple cider, pumpkins, and the general coziness that comes with the changing season. Say what you want, but I really just love fall.

October is usually a jam-packed month; however, the crazy schedule only adds to my excitement. One thing I look forward to every October is homecoming at Messiah. It’s easy for me to say I enjoy the student events, such as the Color Run, the food trucks parked outside of the Union, and Eyas’ White-Out march down to Starry. But although my friends and I participate in all of these events, it’s the other side of homecoming that never fails to makes me happy.

I love seeing the families: the many dads, moms, and small kids decked out in Messiah gear. I love watching kids’ eyes light up when they see the Lottie dessert bar. When old friends, long out of college, reconnect and reminisce at their old dorm buildings. When now-married couples remember the exact spot they met on campus. The pure joy and wonder kids experience when they walk around this beautiful campus that far exceeds their tiny world.

It’s this reason why Messiah is synonymous with family. My own three aunts graduated from Messiah, leaving me three amazing

Messiah legacies to live up to. It’s fascinating to see that Messiah is often a family tradition, persisting throughout the generations.

This magazine is a prime example of this. Once The Swinging Bridge newspaper, this magazine by the same name carries on the tradition through the new class.

It’s a testament to the endurance of the Messiah legacy, entrenched in the minds of many.

It’s my hope that just as current students will pick up this magazine on homecoming weekend, alumni will also appreciate what’s on its pages.

Throughout the years Messiah has been a home, a place of joy, a source of growth, and a community to those who have entered. This magazine survives to show the community that Messiah is still that place today.

To all of you alumni reading this, sit back, enjoy a cup of coffee at the Falcon, and welcome home.

Maddie Crocenzi Editor in Chief

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STUDENT LIFE

Activity Calendar OCTOBER//NOVEMBER S UNDAY

M ONDAY

T UE S DAY

WED N ESD AY

TH U R SD AY

F R I D AY

S ATU R D AY

18 19 20 21 22 23 24 Mechanical Bull Riding // 7pm // Union

Powerhouse // 8:30pm // Hostetter Chapel

25 26 27 28 29 30 31 Career and Grad School Expo // 8am - 3pm // Brubaker

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Powerhouse // 8:30pm // Hostetter Chapel

Lost Films: Mad Max*

Lost Films: Mad Max* Fall Fest // 1pm // Union

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Powerhouse // 8:30pm // Hostetter Chapel

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Lost Films: End of the Tour*

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Lost Films: End of the Tour* Ultimate Frisbee Tournament // Lancaster, PA

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Ultimate Frisbee Tournament // Lancaster, PA

The Movement // 9pm // Union

10 11 12 13 14 Impact Venture Challenge // Frey 105 // 7 - 8:30pm

Powerhouse // 8:30pm // Hostetter Chapel

Lost Films: Look of Silence*

Lost Films: Look of Silence*

Ultimate Frisbee Tournament // West Windsor, NJ

Family & Friends // 9pm // Union

*Lost Films times are as followed: 6 and 9 pm on Fridays and 3, 6, and 9 pm on Saturdays If you have an event that is coming up and you would like to see it featured in the Swinging Bridge Magazine Activity Calendar please e-mail thepulse@messiah.edu with your event details!

Contents 0 2

4 Student Life What Do You want to do with that Major?

OCT 2015

8 Student Life Campus Closet: What’s Trending this Fall?

10 Student Life Hitting That Sophomore Stretch

16 Culture What can we do now?

Why the Color Yellow has Become Symbolic in Malaysia

10 Culture The Evidence Releases New EP

22 Sports & Rec The Loft Climbing Wall

24 Sports & Rec Reflecting the Spotlight: A Look at the Career of Judi Tobias

HUMANS OF MESSIAH COLLEGE

By Rose Talbot

JEREMY JENSEN What’s your major and why did you choose it?

My major is journalism, and I chose it because in high school I really liked to write, but I also was really interested in news. I thought it would be cool if I could combine those two things I was really interested in.

If you could have your dream job, what would it be?

I have two dream jobs. One would be to be a film critic. The other would be to work for a video game magazine, where I get to write about video games, play video games, and review them for the magazine.

In fact, the AARP magazine is the number one circulated magazine in the country.

The second is Game Informer, which is a gaming magazine. Everything I do is moving towards that and getting my foot in the door, which I’ll need five years of experience for in order to work there.

What’s better than interviewing video game designers, playing video games, and then writing about them? It’s the fastest growing medium, everyone plays games, and their magazine’s doing really well. It’s perfect for me.

What is one weird habit you have?

I’ll find a word I really like, and find a way to use it in every single conversation.

For a while, I was trying to fit the word “schadenfreude” into conversation… it doesn’t fit in a lot of contexts, but I thought “if I can just fit this in once per week, I’ll feel accomplished.” It’s probably the journalism part of me that always tries to fit it in, whether it’s to try and sound smart or just because I think it’s funny. No one can even spell the word “schadenfreude,” but it’s hilarious to say.

What is one of your pet peeves?

My biggest pet peeve is when people talk about how other people pronounce words. Someone pronounces “chocolate” or “water” differently and everyone has to comment on it for the next half an hour.

Everyone is different, everyone has a dialect; it’s okay.

What would you be most scared of in a haunted house?

What is something that people might be surprised to learn about you?

If anything touching or inspirational happens, I’ll tear up almost every single time. I’ll see movies or motivational speeches and it hits me right in the heart. I have a surprisingly fragile soul.

What’s one piece of advice you wish you’d known going into college?

If you have the option between working on homework, or hanging out with friends, or taking advantage of attending a lecture that the College is hosting, set aside the homework. As long as it’s not pressing or urgent, just pick the other option.

Homework will always be there, but you won’t necessarily have another chance to meet that guest lecturer or listen to Robin Collins’ talk about philosophy, or hang out with your friends and play games and be young. You have these last four years, so make the most of them.

I’m pretty much scared of anything, so just about anything would get me really bad – my voice reaches a new pitch whenever there’s a jump scare.

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STUDENT LIFE

So, What do You Want to do with that Major?

By Andrew Weir

As college students, there are many questions we are asked throughout our time here. “How late are you usually up?”

“Do you like your roommate?” “How often do you study?” “Wanna go to Bakers?”

Or the crowd favorite: “So…What do you want to do with your major after graduation?”

This question either makes you sweat profusely as you’re reminded that you have no idea what you want to do after college, or electrifies you with excitement because you’ve got it all figured out. Either way, we went around and asked a few Messiah students and professors that very question.

“What are some career paths that students can take with a biomedical engineering (BME) degree?”

Emily Farrar: Professor of Biomedical Engineering

Emily Farrar, a Biomedical Engineering Professor and 2010 Messiah alumna, went into great detail about what you can do with a BME degree. After graduation there are three directions you can go with your BME degree. You can either go straight into the industry, go to medical school, or join a graduate program. Most Messiah students, according to Farrar, go directly

“What do you want to do with you major after graduation?”

Christopher Scheib: Senior Biomedical Engineering Major

Bridgette Rodgers: Senior Biopsychology Major

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OCT 2015

“I hope to get involved with a research based university with a lab that focuses on either cardiovascular, regenerative medicine, or biomechanics research,” Scheib says. Within the cardiovascular field, he would like to help develop alternative methods to help the heart work, whether that be through stents, valves, or

“What do you want to do with your major after graduation?”

Graduate school is in Rodgers’ sights, as she hopes to attend either the University of Pennsylvania, Georgetown University, or Princeton University. Upon finishing

into industry. Biomedical engineers in the industry can go on to work for companies such as Johnson & Johnson, DeVilbiss, and many more. For jobs like these, BME’s are needed to help develop things that go into or support the body, from stents or pacemakers, to hip and knee replacements.

As for things that support the body – well, take a look around a hospital. Odds are the pieces of equipment you’re looking at – walkers, heart monitors and dialysis machines, for example – were developed by a biomedical engineer.

actual organ replacements. Regenerative medicine is focused on pharmaceuticals, drug analysis, and the development of new alternatives for certain drugs. And last but not least: biomechanics. Scheib expresses his love for sports and how being a BME can play a huge role in performance. As a member of the Messiah Cross Country team, he would like to help develop new ways to help injury-prone people, as well as help prevent further injuries for athletes.

graduate school, she hopes to work in translational cognitive neuroscience, which entails working with patients in hospitals to help them better understand their specific illness, such as Alzheimer’s.

Ultimately, Rodgers would love to teach at the collegiate level – maybe even here at Messiah one day.

By Elizabeth Gutman

APPLE WRAPS For this next edition of “Lottie Life Hacks” I have come up with a lunch idea that may be “the apple of your eye.” This healthy snack satisfies the protein, dairy, and fruit food groups and is titled “Apple Wraps.”

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You will need: • Apples: Either by the yogurt bar or on the fruit shelf next to the cereal.

• Cheese: Near the sandwich bar.

• Turkey: Near the sandwich bar.

Shua Wilmot: Senior Human Development and Family Science Major with a Theater Minor

“What do you want to do with your major after graduation?”

Wilmot is in a different boat than many other students interviewed. Although he does not have a set post-graduation plan, he’s not lacking in ideas. He explains how his major has helped him acquire the skills to work with people one-on-one.

“A lot of what I’ve learned is applicable to everyday life,” he says, referencing his development of interpersonal relationships and understanding of family dynamics.

His main goal is to obtain his Master’s degree at either Shippensburg University or Taylor University, and later go on to be a Residence Director. He hopes to one day work at a Christian college, and ultimately, return to work at Messiah.

How to make: Step 1. Pick up a few apple slices from the mixed fruit tray or cut your own apple into slices and place them on a plate.

Step 2. Take one slice of turkey and cut it horizontally into three thinner slices.

Step 3. Then, take one slice of cheese (your preference) and cut it horizontally into slices the same size as the apple slices.

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Step 4. Place both an apple slice and a cheese slice on top of the meat, and then fold the meat over on both sides to create a mini wrap.

Step 5. Continue this process for as many apple wraps as you prefer and enjoy!

Optional: Use another meat, such as ham, instead of turkey.

This recipe gives a twist on the typical sandwich and is ideal for those with a gluten allergy. Try using different kinds of apples, cheese, and meat combinations as well to alter the taste. Pair this tasty snack with a salad or a bowl of soup. It will leave you feeling full and happy!

Enjoy and keep an eye out for more Lottie Life Hacks!

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STUDENT LIFE

The First October 31st

By Kaitlyn Russell

For some, Halloween is just an excuse to eat too much sugar and dress like a fool. Here at Messiah, however, we embrace the fun-loving and spellbinding holiday with just as much enthusiasm as any other school event. So, first-year students in particular, listen up. Here’s all you need to know about Halloween on campus!

Whether you are a regular Halloween-celebrator or, like firstyear student Summer Coon, have never gone trick-or-treating, the fall season is full of unique activities to make the most of the cooling weather.

In the weeks leading up to Halloween, as girls settle into the comfort of their leggings, many fun activities will begin to pop up around campus. From dorm decorations to new flavors of coffee, the entire student body is getting ready to celebrate. First-years Amy Vorhauer and Tim Sarac are two of the many new students who are anxious to see what rooms, dorms, and the campus as a whole will look like as October 31st approaches. I personally will be decorating my room with pumpkins, orange lights, and plenty of ghosts and goblins. Who knows what other surprises will appear around campus?

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OCT 2015

On Halloween night, black cats and cowboys are sure to make their appearances around campus, but Sophomore Lauren Bontrager says it’s interesting to see the select few in their own creative costumes. Firstyear Kelly Webber will be one of these as she plans on dressing up as the Cookie Monster while handing out freshly baked cookies to her dorm.

Once everyone is dressed and ready to go, the freshmen dorms have their own tradition: a costume contest.

Organized in a similar manner to a fashion show, the residents show off their creations for judging and gather to celebrate a night of fun together. Making their way through all of the freshmen residence halls, students go door-to-door, knocking and asking for candy (supplies, by the way, can be purchased ahead of time at the Union).

Students such as Tim Mahoney will anxiously wait to see what their classmates dress up as, and others, such as Emily Lykens, will be pinterest-ready for pumpkin carving with friends. Classic Disney Channel Halloween movies, such as Halloweentown, will start to pop up on the TVs, which will lead to some great dorm movie nights.

So get your thinking caps on, put up some pumpkins, drink some new coffee, and enjoy this fall’s Messiahstyle Halloween!

Illustrations designed by freepik.com

Now that it is officially fall and we have all had our fair share of pumpkin and caramel drinks, it is time to talk about the upcoming fall holiday: Halloween.

DIY Costumes

If you’re not a first-year student, you may be asking yourself why Halloween still matters, if it even does at all. I would argue that Halloween is still a fun holiday at any age.

How often can you dress up like a zombie?

(That’s not every Monday, Wednesday, Friday at your 8 a.m.) Or what other day of the year can you make perfectly simple but delicious Halloween treats? Despite all of the awesome costumes, goodies, and general fun that accompany Halloween, I would argue there are three reasons why you should still participate in Halloween at any age: 1. Free candy. 2. Free candy. 3. Um, more free candy!

The Minimalist: Error: Costume not found

Couple’s Costume: Wilson and the Fed Ex Box

Here’s a list of some popular Halloween candy sure to make even the hardest of hearts pull on a costume: 1. Candy Corn 2. Caramel Apple Milky Ways 3. Reese’s Peanut Butter Pumpkins 4. Marshmallow Pumpkin Peeps 5. Pumpkin Spice Hershey Kisses

Group: Shark Week

Haven’t convinced you yet? Maybe the costume is the problem. If you’re lacking in creative ideas, or cash, I recommend Pinterest. (I recommend Pinterest for basically everything, but especially Halloween.)

Pinterest has some hilariously simple DIY costume ideas. Here are some of my personal favorite costumes arranged by categories. So get out your scissors and markers, and head on out there for those coveted pieces of chocolate.

The Punny: Dunkin’ Donuts

Trying out any of these costume recommendations?

Send us your photos or tag us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram!

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STUDENT LIFE

Campus Closet

By Bree Whitelock Photos by Emily Budenz

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College kids remain moderately good at one thing - stretching their dollar to the last cent. Well, except for when we purchase something we need, that we didn’t really need, yet really wanted…but that’s a story for a different day.

As students who love fashion but also enjoy saving money, Junior Bree Whitelock, along with Senior Alex Monroe, attempt to recreate some of the many styles behind their “one-stop shop” looks.

A little black dress has always been the remedy to any girls, “What do I wear?” moments. But people commonly look past what comes next: “What do I wear because I can’t wear the same black dress I’ve worn for the last two weekends?”

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More recently, denim joggers have become the staple piece of any guy’s laidback, classic approach to fashion. How do you manage to repeat this comfy look without receiving the weird brow raise that says, “Do you wash your clothes?”

Starting simple and sticking to the basics of the season, Whitelock and Monroe, first choose flannels; a layer left unbuttoned exerts an edgier approach. For the dress, a color-popping flannel helps to keep the dress noticeable as the base piece of the outfit, while drawing your focus elsewhere as well. For joggers, the flannel helps with the reverse – your attention is drawn more to the flannel rather than the bottom half of your outfit. The bolder color and straightforward print helps draw your eye to the flannel first, then to the rest of each outfit.

OCT 2015

Moving across the spectrum, fall floral becomes the next fashion statement.

Choosing what most would see as a warm weather sleeveless top, Whitelock layers the top over her black dress to give it the extra length it needs to become more than simply a shirt. An added cardigan for warmth moves the outfit from single-season to year-round. Monroe uses floral in a more focalized manner to keep the onlookers’ attention on the top portion of the outfit.

Floral is an attention grabber: don’t be shy, floor-em in floral.

Taking a slightly different approach with each piece, both Whitelock and Monroe embrace the phrase “sweater weather.” For a dressier take, gray sweaters seem to hit the mark. An oversized sweater layered on top of the black dress gives the impression of a continued look. For joggers, a sweater increases the credibility, forging the appeal of a completed look. A sweater helps to up the ante for each outfit, making the staple piece go almost unnoticed.

Think of fashion as an art project – there’s always a new combination, color scheme, or detail to be perfected. Are seasonal allergies hitting an all-time high or are you simply sick of your wardrobe? Play dress up for a little (no shame) and see how you can form new twists on old favorites.

Check out “Campus Closet” on the Swinging Bridge website at swingingbridge.messiah.edu for more takes on these one-stop shop looks.

Homecoming Through the Ages

By Sarah Beairsto

Homecoming: a reunion of past alumni and current students to celebrate the common experience we all share in Messiah College. We see homecoming today as a time to attend a big soccer game or a dance – but that wasn’t always the case. Let me take you on a journey through the past where we will look at the evolution of homecoming through the years here at Messiah College.

Students of the 80’s celebrating at the annual parade of floats.

Students in the 90’s were among the first to celebrate homecoming with a formal dance.

The homecoming host and hostess, as the king and queen were once known.

1975

1985 Even in the 1990s, things were still radically different. The Whiteout March did not exist yet, but the annual homecoming soccer game was still huge. In the early 1990s, Jay McClymont witnessed a spectacular stunt to celebrate the start of the game. Before the game started, students watched someone parachute out of a flying plane to bring the first soccer ball to the team. Homecoming court was not to be forgotten either, as McClymont, the 1992 “Homecoming Host” recalls.

2010 2015 Today, there are many opportunities and events planned for students and alumni. Students such as Sophomore Sandra Snozzi enjoy going to the homecoming dance. She, like others at Messiah, loves to dress up and have some fun dancing with friends as a much-needed study break. Ashley Burkett, SAB Dances Executive, says she cannot wait for Homecoming this year. The Masqueradethemed homecoming, complete with photo booths and DJs, is sure to be a success. Students and alumni of all ages look forward to Homecoming as a chance to see the changes that have taken place on campus, and reunite with faces both old and new.

In the 1970s, Messiah College contained about 800 students. Each student knew almost everyone by name, according to Bob Knapp, class of ‘75. Good luck trying to organize a homecoming dance!

Dancing was strictly prohibited on campus because of Messiah’s ideals of Christian modesty.

In the 1980s, you could instead play a fun game of “Bed Races” at Homecoming, says Kathie Shafer, class of ’85. Those that finish first were awarded money or prizes, such as a Senior class trip to Myrtle Beach, according to alumnus Jay McClymont.

1992

In the early 2000s, dancing had already been permitted on campus.

Lyndsey Keet, class of ’10, helped with Messiah’s centennial Homecoming celebration. It was an event that would be remembered – but sadly for unexpected reasons, according to Keet. During this Homecoming weekend it rained for three days straight, making it the first time in 100 years that Messiah canceled their annual soccer game.

photos provided by the clarion yearbook

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STUDENT LIFE

Hitting that Sopho Y

our first year of college is often a wild ride: you’re living somewhere new, meeting different people every day, and finally immersed in the exciting and emotional world they call college.

But they never film movies about the sophomore year.

Deborah Chang, a Senior Marketing major, says her second year took a serious downturn from her first year college experience.

“My first year was full of excitement and fun,” she reflects. “I took a lot of easy geneds, and everything was new: the people, the environment, the culture.”

By sophomore year, however, the thrill had begun to wear off. Partly instigated by a national tragedy that occurred in her home country of South Korea, Chang says she fell into a spiraling depression and started to question her purpose.

“The ferry accident that happened back in Korea during my sophomore year made me start to think about why those people had died and I hadn’t,” she says. “I wondered what God’s plan for me was, and the more I thought about the more I “Personally, I had the it, started to lose sense of most challenging times my my identity.”

sophomore year, but also experienced the deepest sense of satisfaction in answering very hard questions in my own life.”

On top of her personal struggles, the burden of more challenging coursework became a source of anxiety.

“My classes were harder sophomore year, as I started to take higher level courses. I drifted away from a lot of friends, because people start to stick more with their groups after the first year.”

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Another problem Chang identifies is the lack of events centered on sophomores. “During the first year, we were given a lot of attention. RA’s looked out closely for us, and there were activities to help us get to know each other and become comfortable around campus. By sophomore year, that attention had shifted to the new first-year students. We were supposed to know who we were and what we were doing. We were kind of left to ourselves after that.”

It wasn’t until the end of her second year that Chang began to change her mindset and see her situation with new eyes. “I stopped questioning God’s plan, and realized it was fully impossible for me to understand. Changing my mindset and attitude helped make everything better, as I started to let go of some of my cares and stresses,” she says.

While each student’s situation is unique, Chang is certainly not the only one to encounter this struggle.

The phenomenon is known as the “sophomore slump” or “sophomore stretch,” and is applicable to college students across the globe. In Australia, it is commonly referred to as the “second year syndrome,” and similarly in the U.K. it is called the “second year blues.” It is also known as the “sophomore jinx,” and can refer to secondseason athletic performances, sequels of films, or second albums for bands.

Bryce Watkins, Residence Director of Sollenberger Residence and Mellinger Apartments, says he has observed this struggle often during his time working with students. “Most notably are students content with their involvement on campus,” he says, referring to those who limit themselves to only going to class and hanging out with their small circle of friends.

“There are lots of clusters in Solly, and I only occasionally see deep connections formed by people throughout different clusters. Often times the friend group you enter the year with is the one you leave with, which feels very limiting.”

Waktins added that a further problem many sophomores encounter is related to academics. “I also have a number of conversations regarding anxiety over major because now that students are no longer a first-year, they expect they should have everything figured out.”

Another problem area is the attention drop between first and second year. “It would be easy to come back to school as a sophomore and feel neglected because there

omore Stretch might be a significant difference in how they are involved and engaged with as a sophomore, as opposed to all the attention they received as a first-year student,” says Julie Price, Residence Director of Grantham Residence and Smith Apartments.

Amy Nicols, Residence Director of Hess and Kelly, thinks that the housing changes also have a part to play.

The switch from first-year residences to more general buildings can cause some sophomores to “feel lost and taken out of their communities.” While the cluster model can help to alleviate some of these effects, it may still be a disorienting experience.

Many Messiah RD’s who are aware of this common theme are planning sophomore-specific events, such as Sophomore Trivia Night, Coffee & Calling, and other events that are in the works. Nicols also stresses that intentionality, from RD’s, RA’s, and other students, is important.

“I would encourage them [sophomores] to embrace the ‘stretch’ language,” she says, when asked what advice she would give to second year students. “They need to understand that there will be certain challenges (expected and unexpected) during their sophomore year; however, if they could see these as opportunities to grow instead of low points, I believe that they would feel more encouraged even in the face of hardship.”

Nicols, Watkins, and Price also mention the importance of community, and the option of reaching out to older students. “I would also encourage them to share about their experience with other sophomores so that they could empathize with one another. They can also reach out to juniors and seniors and ask them about things they experienced their sophomore year and ask them to share things that they wished they knew,” says Nicols.

If students feel they need an avenue to vent or receive individualized attention, counseling at the Engle Center is also a free and readily available solution. Professional counselors are there to help students dealing with discontentment, stress, questions about their purpose, frustration with friendships, or any other problems students may be dealing with.

“I think that sophomore year presents so much opportunity for growth and a deeper understanding of oneself,” says Nicols. “Personally, I had the most challenging times my sophomore year, but also experienced the deepest sense of satisfaction in answering

very hard questions in my own life.”

To defeat that sophomore stretch, USA Today recommends interning or studying abroad. Getting a change of scenery or a challenging career start can drive you out of your bubble, create opportunities to meet new people, and cultivate a passion for your major.

The article also suggests meeting with your advisor frequently to avoid feeling overwhelmed and stressed about harder classes and your direction. One of Messiah’s distinct qualities is the fantastic professorstudent relationships, and the genuine desire of each educator to see his or her students succeed. Figure out your advisor’s office hours and availability, and don’t make your appearances an obligatory once-a-semester drop by.

The last, and perhaps most important, piece of advice from USA Today is for students to get as involved as possible on their campuses.

Messiah offers a myriad of special interest clubs, from Animal Alliance to League of Legends. You can find an organization for pretty much any of your hobbies, whether it’s classical films, Chinese, or exploring the great outdoors. Get plugged in, take on a leadership role, try new things, and make this campus your own.

From there, I guarantee your sophomore year can turn from uninspiring to unforgettable.

By Rose Tablot

Avoid the slump • Intern • Study abroad • Meet new people • Cultivate a passion For your major • Meet with advisor Frequently • Get involved in a club!

• Sophomore Trivia Night, Coffee & Calling

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STUDENT LIFE

On Suicide, Stress, and Semi-colons;

By Rose Talbot

If

you’ve ever noticed a person with a semi-colon tattoo inked on their body, you’ve been a witness to a statement far bigger than a form of punctuation made permanent. The semicolon project symbolizes hope for those who struggle with depression, suicide, or addiction. And it aims to tackle an issue more prevalent than many of us realize.

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OCT 2015

The real question at the heart of this issue is, why? What are the driving forces causing a thousand-plus college students a year to end their own lives, when they stand just at the starting point of it all?

Marcelle Giovannetti, Engle Center Counselor and Program Director specializing in alcohol and drug addiction, believes the answer lies in a complex set of pressures.

sources of stress “The reason that this age group is at risk is because of the amount of stress they’re under,” says Giovannetti. “College is a huge financial investment, for one thing.”

The SPRC also mentions financial anxiety as one of the stress points for college students, as it adds a level of responsibility, as well as a burden, to others who view loans as a looming weight coming for them as soon as they graduate.

Suicide is a serious and continually growing problem on college campuses across the nation. According to The Suicide Prevention Research Center (SPRC), suicide is the third leading cause of death among university students in the U.S. Their research reveals that at least 7.5 percent of college students have seriously considered suicide, and there are over 1,100 suicides at colleges per year. This suicide rate has tripled since the 1950s.

Modern culture has its own blame to share in these rising statistics. “It doesn’t help that college students are now in a time where everything is displayed on social media. There’s this persona of ‘I’ve got to have everything together,’” adds Giovannetti. “Everything has to look good on the outside, which doesn’t leave a lot of room for conversations about struggle. It creates a culture of pressure and perfectionism. Everyone wants to succeed, but first they need to see unplanned changes as learning opportunities instead of failures.”

This culture of perfectionism that Giovannetti references is a reality that millennials are particularly susceptible to, as the pervasive social media presence makes the comparison game hard to ignore. “It all adds to a sense of peer pressure that’s hard to escape,” says Senior Andrea Yong, a Psychology major. “You can feel like you’re just not measuring up.”

“All of the changes a student is going through – from transitioning to college to later trying to get ready for the ‘real world’ – can lead to anxiety and stress, and possibly depression. Sometimes this can build to suicidal thoughts,” says Yong, who includes that depression was a key topic of discussion in her Abnormal Psychology class.

Another common source of anxiety for college students stems from poor time management and an overcommitted schedule.

“Students often sign up for way more than they can fit in their schedule – while it’s great to have so many options, it can become overwhelming and create extra stress,” says Senior Eric Moore and President of Minds Matter. “That’s what I tell students at the opportunities fair . . .

Pick a few things you really love and spend your time on those, that way you’re not trying to do five things at once.”

stopping silence Giovannetti believes that lifting the silence is key in giving a voice to those who are struggling.

“In terms of mental illness, most people have more of a vocabulary around mental illness now than they ever did in the past. Before, things like depression and anxiety just weren’t talked about. I think now, as a culture, we’re getting better about talking about these issues and trying to de-stigmatize these things, and say, ‘everyone struggles, to some degree.’”

Despite the progress that has been made, some of this mental illness stigma remains, creating a cultural atmosphere that can make it difficult to verbalize your needs.

“A lot of times, when people are talking about a mental health issue – whether it’s stress or suicidal thoughts – people feel isolated and alone. There’s something poignant about feeling alone in the middle of a group,” Giovannetti says.

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do something In light of this issue, many college faculties are beginning to pay closer attention to the pulse of their students, but there is still much more work to be done. A recent article published by The Chronicle of Higher Education highlights the fact that while almost all colleges have rapid-response plans set in place for emergencies such as a campus shooter, many still lack proper training on how to deal with students’ mental illnesses.

In a 2014 survey conducted by the Association for University and College Counseling Center Directors, less than 60 percent of colleges reported offering faculty training on this issue. Training can take any number of forms, from education on mental health services, to “distress symptoms” charts. The bottom line for most of the formal or informal training faculty receive is a simple message: Do something. No warning sign is too small, and even a simple expression of care and concern can make an impact.

One of the mental health resources available to students at Messiah is the Engle Center. It exists for more than administering flu shots or distributing ice packs: It also functions as a counseling center. Students can make an appointment online or stop by in person, and all counseling sessions are both confidential and completely free.

When asked one thing Giovannetti wishes students would understand about counseling, it was this: “Self-care is not selfish – in fact, caring for yourself is one of the kindest things you can do. No problem is too big or too small to come talk to a counselor about.”

“You should recognize that some degree of stress is normal – it’s a common human problem.”

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The Engle Center also provides consultations, where students can talk to a counselor about a friend they might be having concerns for. If a student has serious concerns about someone they think might be a risk to themselves or others, they are urged to immediately reach out to their RA, RD, or a counselor. The Engle Center’s website provides additional detailed information for emergency contacts and hotlines.

Giovannetti relates stress to being inside a dark tunnel, where your vision becomes extremely narrow. “We’re not in the business of fixing. We, as counselors, are here to come alongside you with a flashlight and help you find your own way out of the tunnel – to help you feel less lost.”

But one doesn’t just jump from happy-golucky college student to suicide statistic overnight. Hopelessness and depression are root causes that often spiral from much smaller, seemingly normal triggers.

“You should recognize that some degree of stress is normal – it’s a common human problem,” says Giovannetti. Stress can come from any number of sources: worrying about the future, classes, relationships, finances, and the list goes on and on in an endless supply.

Sometimes, students are so busy being busy that they lose a certain amount of self-awareness, allowing stress to build until it becomes overwhelming. Some common indicators of high stress levels to look out for are: difficulty concentrating on a task, lack of motivation, short temper, changes in sleeping or eating habits, and physical tension. While many other stress symptoms exist, these are some simple

“Sometimes, students are so busy being busy that they lose a certain amount of self-awareness, allowing stress to build until it becomes overwhelming.” and tangible ones to look out for when you consider your own wellness.

When the busy peak of the semester hits, sleep is often the first thing to go out the window. For some, the sleep deprivation starts when midterms roll around – for others, it begins as early as move-in day.

Getting an ample amount of rest, however, is crucial for more than just avoiding the appearance of a zombie the next morning.

“Most students will give up sleep and diet routines for deadlines,” says Giovannetti.

“But wellness is a whole picture – which includes sleep, diet, exercise, and healthy relationships. Taking care of all of these can really reduce anxiety.” According to research conducted by Brown University, approximately 11 percent of students report good sleep, while 73 percent report experiencing sleep problems. It is not surprising that college students are statistically one of the most sleep-deprived age groups, despite the fact that sleep deprivation limits concentration and memory, facets which are key to learning and test-taking.

Diet and exercise are other important, but often overlooked, elements of holistic health. Giovannetti often tells students, “food is the body’s fuel – and you can’t drive a car on an empty gas tank.”

professional health column: minds matter While the Engle Center is an accessible professional resource, there are also other places to turn to on campus for questions about stress and mental health. One such club is Minds Matter.

“Minds Matter is focusing on getting rid of negative stereotypes surrounding mental illness, and also promoting positive mental health on campus,” says Moore.

The club provides events throughout the year designed to bring awareness to mental illness and help to alleviate students’ stress struggles. For example, Minds Matter hosts a Zumba activity, offers pet therapy day, and lets students relieve a little tension by screaming for some ice cream. For September’s Family Weekend, Minds Matter partnered with SAB to provide a screening of the Pixar movie Inside Out, an animated film that brought to life the importance of acknowledging your emotions.

In addition to De-Stress Fest activities, Minds Matter also seeks to provide educational material to the student body.

Last spring, their topic of focus was body image; this semester, they will be tackling the issue of anxiety, in collaboration with College Ministries. They will also be talking about stress and body image as a part of the wellness lecture series.

“I think what Minds Matter does is a really good example of what people should be doing around campus,” says Yong. “Their events, from pet therapy to bubble wrap popping, are all good ways to help students relax, because they don’t require students to set aside a lot of time. It’s a quick, easy way to brighten someone’s mood and release some stress.”

Look out for Minds Matter’s thought-provoking stickers around campus this semester, and continue to place priority on your wellbeing, including taking advantage of the resources available to you. “I’ll continue to encourage students: don’t be afraid to reach out and ask for help, whether it’s for yourself or for someone else,” says Giovannetti. “It takes an enormous amount of courage, but it can make a difference, not having to go through a difficult time on your own. It can make all the difference in the world.”

Managing Stress

By Betsey Miller, Nurse Practitioner at the Engle Center

The National Institutes of Health define stress as “a feeling of emotion or physical tension…that can come from any event or thought that makes you feel nervous, anxious or frustrated.”

Some students thrive on stress and pressure, but the majority are affected negatively. If you struggle under pressure, consider some of these tips to help get your stress level under control.

Sleep is sacred – Try to stick to a regular sleep schedule, and protect your sleep fiercely. Nothing will work against you more than pulling an all-nighter.

Time management – Don’t just look at what’s due tomorrow; look ahead and plan accordingly. Avoid procrastinating.

Say NO – You can’t do it all. Learn to save your “yeses” for the best things, and don’t feel bad about saying no to the rest.

Make time for fun – Some of your “yeses” should be fun, relaxing, social things with the people you love to hang out with.

Exercise – Messiah is beautiful this time of year. Take a walk by the creek. Breathe in the crisp fall air. Get your heart rate up. Get out of your room. Yoga, pilates, soccer, frisbee, running….something!

Thirty minutes a day. Go. Don’t skip meals – Your brain needs fuel. FOOD is FUEL. Get help - It’s normal for all of us to feel stressed at times, but if you’re feeling stressed all the time, it might mean you need to seek some help.

Betsey Miller, MSN, CRNP is the nurse practitioner at the Engle Heath Center. She is a 1993 Messiah alumna who returned to campus last year after obtaining 17 years of family practice experience. She is excited to be back at Messiah and to have the opportunity to serve the campus community’s health needs.

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What can we do now?

Why the Color Yellow has Become Symbolic in Malaysia ByX.Ling*

Pictures and news articles circulating around social media, of masses of people in yellow, carrying signs and flags, shared by the Malaysian students at Messiah have piqued the curiosity of many. Famous headlines stating the rise of the Malaysian Ring`git, as well as the recent increase in inflation have been the common headlines most web users most likely see. Not to mention the news about protests being held in the city of Kuala Lumpur involving multiple folds of people.

“This event where everyone is sporting the yellow attire is to show support for a rally that is going on in Malaysia, which is organized by Bersih, which in English, means ‘clean.’ It is a watchdog organization advocating for clean elections ” says Luke*, a Malaysian student at Messiah. He continues to explain how Bersih is seen by the Malaysian government as a regime intent to topple the government, but Berish says its desire is for democratic reform.

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Apart from news websites within Malaysia, international news sources such as the BBC, The New York Times, and The Telegraph have implicated the Malaysian Prime Minister. In a New York Times article the Malaysian Prime Minister, Najib Razak, is accused of “mismanaging Malaysia’s sovereign wealth fund.” Thus, after the accusations and investigations were made, members of the public expressed their disappointment, as well as their dissatisfaction with the actions of the Prime Minister.

So how do the yellow shirts help? Fellow Malaysian student Emily*, expresses her thoughts on the eye catching attire. “Skeptics would say that wearing a color won’t help to ease the corruption, but in my opinion, wearing it is something. Whatever impact you can make or voice you can make, make it.”

There are other ways to help Malaysian citizens during their country’s time of uncertainty and anxiety. Besides providing emotional and spiritual support to their friends and family back home, Malaysian students at Messiah with a job on campus may choose to help by “financing these rallies if you wish to do that, especially families, since we are here in America and earning the US dollar” Luke* explains. In addition to financing these rallies, sending money to families back home is also helpful.

With the recent increase of the Malaysian currency, and inflation affecting the economy, students having workstudy scholarships are not only helpful to them, but their families as well.

So how can we as students, be there for them? Besides staying well connected through social media, and prayer for change, it’s important to stay up to date on the issue.

Luke* mentions that in terms of international awareness, when asked about what is going in Malaysia, Malaysians are be able to inform those who inquire, and let them make their own inference based on the information given.

What can our Christian response be in this situation? How do we respond reasonably, and at the same time, show love towards others, just as Jesus has shown us? According to Emily* “anger and hatred will not solve any of the problems of the country. But rather, I think we should pray, this is time for the Malaysian church to wake up, not just that but in general, the Malaysian youth in particular, I think it is really just time to wake up and start praying really hard for the country, wherever you are in the world.”

Christians at Messiah College and around the world have a choice in how they view and respond to the situation in Malaysia. Dr. George Pickens says as “God calls us to be good citizens, so we should be good examples ourselves, be good citizens of our nations, work for the best of our nation, but we are first citizens of the kingdom of God and as Christians, that is our primary identity, so we should behave in a Christian way, that may set us apart from other citizens of our own nation.”

Names* have been changed in this article due to the wishes of the author and those interviewed.

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Devotional

Murray Library Reading List Matthew 5:48

By Lindsey Longoria Some of Jesus’ teachings are engrained in us. Others confuse us. The latter is the case for Matthew 5:48 – “Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.” In fear, you may ignore this. You may use it to employ judgment. Let’s strike a balance. Regarding community, author Jean Vanier states, “It’s difficult to make people understand that the ideal community doesn’t exist…that [what] they imagine possible comes only after years of struggle, and even then only as flashes of grace and peace.”

This isn’t comforting in the face of the command to be perfect. Considering the Gospel’s totality, we see a new command to love people despite their flaws. Perfect love embraces the whole person, and seeks out flashes of grace and peace in their Godly image. It’s easy to love agreeable people, but that ideal doesn’t exist. Instead, we seek perfection by seeking Christ’s face in others.

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The Poor Will Be Glad: Joining the Revolution to Lift the World Out of Poverty

By Peter Greer & Phil Smith Suggested by: Katie Logan Messiah graduate Peter Greer, alongside his coauthor Phil Smith, draw from their personal experiences with poverty relief to provide insights into the field of charity and aid. Examining the “pitfalls of traditional approaches and outlining a new model of economic development aimed at breaking the cycle of dependency,” Greer and Smith seek to empower a new generation of Christian humanitarians to make a difference in a way that is

both effective and sustainable.

The Forsaken: An American Tragedy in Stalin’s Russia

By Tim Tzouliadis Suggested by: Michael Rice With fascinating and groundbreaking insight into a harrowing bit of forgotten history, The Forsaken tells the story of Americans lured to Soviet Russia during the Great Depression, and how they met their unfortunate ends. From midnight executions to harsh labor in the gulags of Siberia, countless Americans—seeking better lives for themselves and their families—disappeared in the frenzy of Stalin’s purges.

Tzouliadis uncovers the lives of these forgotten migrants, shedding new light on the terrors that swept Russia and the USSR in the early

20th century.

Aloud: Voices from the Nuyorican Poets Cafe

By Miguel Algarin & Bob Holman Suggested by: Carly Laird There is no need to be a poet to enjoy this unique and lively arrangement of slam poetry from the famous Nuyorican Cafe. The words come alive as readers are drawn from their homes and bedrooms into the heart of the Nuyorican (a portmanteau of “New York” and “Puerto Rican”) artmovement in Alphabet City, New York. Aloud is a mustread for anyone looking to gain insight into the artistic culture of the Big Apple.

The Evidence Releases New EP

By Ashlee Miller

Student Reviews

T

he Evidence is a newly born Christian music group that is made up of current Messiah College students and alumni. The group consists of Diana Kleinmanns (keys and vocals), Dana Miller (acoustic guitar and vocals), Brian Gallagher (drums), and Kevin Shea (electric guitar). The Evidence recently released their first EP titled Recycled Love, which contains a title track that speaks upon the idea of Jesus loving and forgiving us unconditionally and allowing Him to use our lives to glorify His kingdom. Another song on the album titled “All You Need” is a song that expresses how in Jesus, we find peace and love in all sorts of

situations. This song was written the first time that the band got together for a jam session, right here on Messiah’s campus in Parmer Hall, according to band member Diana Kleinmanns. The Evidence shares that they “want their [our] music to express a connection to God through music. We truly believe that God put us together for a reason and that He’s got something to say through our music! Our prayer is that our music is a blessing, challenge, and encouragement to those who hear it.”

Check out Recycled Love on iTunes and download your own copy today!

“The Evidence's EP album Recycled Love is an amazing combination of beautiful lyrics and great musicianship.

The lyrics are very relatable and are great declarations of our need for God in the good and hard times.” -Lindsey Armstrong, Sophomore, Music and Worship major

“Recycled Love is fantastically written.

While this album is, at its core, a worship album, it is a very different sound from other corporate worship styles. The lead vocal tradeoff between Dana Miller and Diana Kleinmanns keeps things fresh and interesting and allows for a greater dynamic contrast.” –Matt Fahnestock, Junior, Music and Worship major

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Live music Friday, Saturday, and Sunday Nights.

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Cornerstone Coffeehouse 2133 Market Street, Camp Hill, PA 17011 Fri 6:30a-11:00p Sat 7:30a-11:00p Sun 7:30a- 9:00p

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CULTURE

Thoughts on Police Brutality:

How One Year has Changed So Much

By Jeremy Jensen

It has been well over a year since Mike Brown’s death in Ferguson, Missouri. The news coverage of the riots following will be remembered by those who saw it in the same way the riots after the beating of Rodney King are remembered by our parents.

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This past year, police brutality stories seem to constantly be circulating.

Such as a new story about an unarmed African American being killed by a cop who used excessive force, in which that cop goes to trial and is ultimately released. Many groups, including the Black Lives Matter Movement, held protests at the site of such a killing. In worse cases, there are riots. The police mobilize for crowd control. The situation gets out of hand, people get angrier, and the cycle continues. This is how you could describe many events in the last year in America.

“Sometimes the media oversensationalizes it and sometimes they take things that aren’t exactly brutality and try to paint it as that, but you can’t deny there are some cases where there is evident police brutality,” says Kevin Wilcox, a Criminal Justice major. “The one case, I believe in North Carolina, where it was an unarmed African American man, simple traffic stop, he ran, the officer fired six bullets into his back. We talked about it in class and my professor clearly said if someone has their back to you they pose no threat, you just don’t shoot.”

The case Wilcox refers to is the Walter Scott incident where an officer was caught on camera firing six bullets into a fleeing suspect’s back after a slight tussle in an abandoned parking lot. The entire incident was captured on camera and can now be viewed online.

Other cases, such as the Eric Garner case have sparked outrage on both sides. On July 17th, Garner was killed by Staten Island, NY police officers by using a chokehold. This incident was also captured on a cell phone video and seen by millions.

“Choking him out on the street is okay in a lot of people’s eyes. Scrolling through Facebook you see opinions that that action is okay, it is justified. And I don’t understand it,” says Naomi Henry, President of the Black Student Union.

Eric Giles, a Senior Criminal Justice major who spent the most recent summer working as a police officer in Ocean City, Maryland covering the 10 p.m. to 8 a.m. shift, gave insight to the reality of police work.

Amongst his experiences were a “bunch of domestic assaults, high speed chases, people pulling guns, people stabbing each other, and one arson case.”

“For certain things, we look at things very differently than the general public because we aren’t just listening to what the people are saying. For example, there was a pool party in Texas where a whole bunch of officers were on a whole bunch of kids. You’ll see

“if I think somebody is about to pull a gun on me, I am drawing just as quick” one of [the kids] reaching up behind his waistband.

For us, this is a big red flag of ‘someone’s going to pull a gun on me.’ That’s why you see one of [the officers] pull a gun. So I won’t say it got blown out of proportion because, yes, he could have acted differently, but in the same situation if I think somebody is about to pull a gun on me, I am drawing just as quick,” shares Giles.

Giles also expressed concern that he feels that there is a growing anti-police sentiment. Many have echoed his concerns and argue that there is a “war on police” in America. However, some studies point to the exact opposite. As of September, 2015 is shaping up to be one of the lowest years in law enforcement deaths: 25 in all, the same as 2014 and much lower than the 67 deaths of 2007, when there was no where near as much publicity as there has been in the past year.

Cases of police brutality also do not only involve African American males.

The case of 20-year-old white male David Connor Castellani is one prime example. Five Atlantic City police officers beat Castellani after he talked back in frustration. After Castellani was on the ground, a sixth officer with a canine unit purposely allowed the dog to repeatedly bite Castellani on the back of the head. The wound required 200 stiches.

In the wake of these incidents, many states are issuing police department reforms. For example, the International Business Times says the New York Police Department has unveiled new force procedures as a direct result of resident complaints. The new procedures include an updated definition of force as well as tactics to intervene when excessive force is used by an officer.

Despite the negative media coverage of recent police brutality incidents, many insist that officers are regular human beings, making tough decisions in the span of a few moments. Reverand Gary Smith sums this up in an article to the New York Times about one such incident.

“To expect of him some Superman, supernatural perfection in what he does, is unrealistic. He just found himself in a very challenging situation that the majority of us would never find ourselves in, and had to make a tough choice in a critical moment.”

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SPORTS & REC

THE LOFT CLIMBING WALL

That’s a Nice

Boulder

By Kelly Webber

Behind the garage doors of The Loft, a special treasure unlike any other reveals itself behind the doors—and there’s no need to say “open sesame.” Back for another year, The Loft is opening its garage doors for students to enjoy the climbing wall.

Some students enjoy exploring the climbing wall and trying to make it to the top or across the ceiling. In addition to “free-climbing,” there is an assortment of routes for those who prefer a more specific goal to climb toward. Each route is labeled with colored duct tape and numbered according to skill level. Routes with lower numbers are geared toward beginners while larger numbers provide a greater challenge.

Although the levels give a tentative idea of which route one should try according to skill level, each one challenges different people in unique ways. “Everyone has a different climbing style,” says Loft Team Student Leader Jennifer Golden. For example, someone who enjoys challenging his or her upper body strength would love “The Aliens Have Landed,” a short climb requiring some core strength.

Some include a sitting start, such as “Alpha and Omega,” or a two-hand finish like “Inigo Montoya.”

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photos by the Pulse // illustration by Jo Forsbloom via freepik.com

While the wall has been present for many years, the experience is consistently changing and always a new adventure. Thanks to the assistance of Loft Team members, students have the opportunity to rearrange the boulders in order to create new routes that optimize and personalize everyone’s bouldering journey.

“Whiteout” is another easy route, although it is a bit more challenging than “That’s a Mosquito.”

Intermediate levels include “Blue” and “Yellow.”

Don’t be fooled; “Blue” is the one with yellow tape and “Yellow” has the blue tape. The highest level at the moment is a 550 route called “Take It Slow Girl.”

In the past, there have been routes that have gone all the way up to level 700.

There are also ways to get creative with routedeveloping. Rather than using varying sizes of boulders, it is possible to create an entire route using only “crinks,” the smallest climbing hold size. This makes for a route that requires climber accuracy and precision. There is also a slingshot route, which means that once the climber reaches the destination, the second challenge is making his or her way back down the wall to the beginning.

This route is level 150 and called “Hannah’s Got It Handled.”

Despite the variety in rigor and style of numerous routes, it’s okay if there’s not one tailored to your specific climbing style. The Loft Team hopes to modify the wall on a regular basis by adding new routes, which can be created by adding new climbing holds, discovering a route with previously installed holds, or a combination of the two.

Loft Team Student Leader Benton Mitchell says the wall offers students more than just climbing. “What I like most is the community that comes around the

wall; there are people climbing, working, hanging out, and socializing. It is just an accepting area to de-stress from school and hang out.”

In front of the wall and underneath a sign with the word “Chillax” in block letters is a comfortable area where students can recline on the sofa, socialize, and unwind from a busy day of classes.

This aspect of the climbing wall is one reason students enjoy coming. Whether they’re adventure education students with extensive training in climbing, or students testing the boulders for the first time, all students can enjoy the positive social side of the experience.

“The rock climbing wall is the most fun I have socializing on campus,” says Loft Team Leader Jake Sargent, who enjoys coming to the wall whether he’s in the mood for climbing or not.

CLIMBING WALL << <<< HOURS: <<<< <<<< <<< Monday: 4:15-6:15 p.m.

Tuesday: 8-10 p.m.

Wednesday: 8-10 p.m.

Thursday: 4:15-6:15 p.m.

<<< <<<<<<< <<<<<<<<

Currently, the easiest route is titled “That’s a Mosquito,” which is a level 15 route. This is also one of the newest routes, created at the beginning of the fall 2015 semester by First-year student Sabrina Bogdan. She had never rock-climbed as a hobby before coming to Messiah, but began coming to the wall during climbing hours as a recreational outlet to relieve stress at the end of a long day.

While rock climbing is just one activity sponsored

by The Loft, it is a favorite among the team and students. One of the driving forces behind its success is the passion behind it. The Loft Director Wendell Witter is an avid climber, and is a certified Single Pitch Climbing Instructor of the Professional Climbing Instructors Association. He says, “The setting is a great place to meet members of The Loft Team and learn more about how The Loft serves the campus and how to get involved in other Loft activities. In addition, it provides another setting to pursue health and wellness by using the bodies that God has given us.”

The Loft wall is open to students, faculty, and relatives. Climbing shoes are provided. If you are interested in trying out some of these routes, or making one of your own, head on over to The Loft during open climbing hours.

Students climb the Loft wall during open hours.

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SPORTS & REC

REFLECTING THE SPOTLIGHT:

A look at the career of Judi Tobias

By Ashlyn Miller

Twenty years of coaching. Over 350 career wins—the winningest in team history. Four consecutive Commonwealth Conference championships. This could fit any legendary coach, but in this case, it describes the coaching career of Judi Tobias, Head Coach of Messiah Women’s Volleyball.

It’s likely that most of these achievements come as surprise to the student body—that was by design. Tobias has always wanted to stay away from the spotlight—which grew harder and harder to do, especially entering her final season.

She initially planned not to disclose her decision to the team, because she didn’t want the players to feel pressured to preform or spend the season focused on her. But then, she realized her decision didn’t line up with the two most important values—integrity and commitment—she has stressed to her players over the years.

“It was kind of selfish for me (to think of not telling them), but I also didn’t want all the distractions, so I wasn’t going to tell them until November. But then, I recognized, when I tried to recruit kids, I couldn’t be honest. I could not with integrity and commitment, tell a recruit, ‘come to this program,’ and then not be there. So I decided to tell the team first,” says Tobias. “But we’re not talking about it all the time, we’re living in the here and now.”

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It was this decision, though, that better describes Tobias as a coach and a person rather than a list of numbers. Ask anyone who knows Tobias, and one of the first things he or she will mention is Tobias’ commitment to her faith and values, as well as her dedication to pouring into her players.

“I love everything about Messiah volleyball, and I think (Coach Tobias) definitely set the standard. It’s more about playing with a purpose to glorify God, and it’s just a beautiful thing she has us do,” says Brooke Gallagher, Junior setter.

“As a player, I am extremely indebted to the way she invested in me outside of my volleyball skills. I was from Michigan—so I was farther away from home than most people on the team—and she truly was my mom away from home,” says Brittany Salloum, a Messiah volleyball alumna and Tobias’ Graduate Assistant.

Beginnings Messiah itself has been a huge part of Tobias’ life, not only as a coach, but

in her playing career and education.

Tobias attended Messiah as a Health and Physical Education student and played for Messiah’s club volleyball team her freshman year—an official varsity team wasn’t established until the following year.

At that time Messiah hired Joan Chamberlain, the first Coach for the women’s volleyball program and the only person who has held the position other than Tobias.

Tobias assisted Chamberlain for three years after she graduated, while she was teaching in the public school system and working on her Master’s in Health Education.

“I was burning the candle at both ends, going to teach at school at 7 a.m. and getting home from practice at 7 p.m. Two weeks in, I had a player ask me, ‘What’s your coaching philosophy?’ Joan was furious, but at the time I really didn’t know that the player was (challenging me).”

When Chamberlain resigned a few years later, Tobias applied and was accepted for the position. At the time she had several young children, the youngest of which was two.

“The early years were just crazy,” says Tobias. “When I see young coaches with young children, I empathize with them, because it was so hard. It took a while to figure out how to balance it all.”

Eventually, she found a system that worked well with her responsibilities. Debbie Rutter, who was an assistant coach with Tobias for 18 years, says family remained a priority for Tobias throughout the years.

“For Judi, it’s family first, and she’s really committed to that. Even with her children that are now adults, she still takes the time to support them. She’ll never say no to letting you out of practice early if you need to get to something to support your kids,” says Rutter.

With the balance perfected, Tobias was set on building Messiah volleyball into the best program it could be.

“We took big steps of improvement, fast. The entire athletic department was encouraging throughout the process. There is a unity, a team focus that developed.

When you walk down the athletic department hall, people will say ‘hey, nice match last night,’” says Tobias.

Taking life as it comes Tobias is well-loved by the Messiah community for her joyful and laid-back nature.

“She is the most caring person, and is so easy to talk to. She’s hilarious and she’s fun to be around,” says Gallagher.

Tobias says she always keeps her door open and players frequently stop by if they need to talk. In addition, she talks to them individually at certain points throughout the season to make sure things are going smoothly on and off the court.

“I try to be really transparent with the players. I’m not a complex person, they know who I am and what’s on my heart.”

She describes herself as a “fly-by-the-seat-of-my-pants person,” and that quality has developed into one of her peers’ favorite qualities about her.

“One night, we were waiting for Coach Judi to pick us up after a tournament, and we couldn’t figure out why she hadn’t shown up yet. Eventually she pulled up, and told the team, ‘Sorry, I saw a yard sale, and I had to stop and look.’ So now that is always a big joke for the team,” says Salloum.

Both Salloum and Rutter do not consider themselves “laid-back” people, so working alongside Judi has helped grow them in different ways than they expected.

Tobias’ initiative to start taking the team on mission trips relied heavily on her calm nature as well. Salloum and Gallagher both mention how Tobias calmed the fears of players who were getting caught up in the

logistics, and reminded them that God would find a way to provide for them.

Several years later, the team has been on three mission trips, twice to Costa Rica and one to the Dominican Republic.

A teacher at heart “Judi is a teacher at heart—and ultimately, coaching is teaching,” says Rutter. “She often said she had the perfect job because her love for teaching and volleyball have been paired together for so long now.”

Rutter recalls Tobias always bringing along papers to grade during long drives or weekend tournaments— fulfilling her commitment to both her players and her students.

Tobias has also taught her colleagues through her coaching. Rutter remarks how Tobias never saw a division in importance between the head coach and the assistant coach, but rather viewed their work together as a partnership.

“So much of what I did with with Judi helped me to become a good head coach,” says Rutter. “Even simple things, like how to treat opposing coaches. It’s small, but they define who Judi is: kind, caring, always looking to help.”

Tobias tries to harness both her teaching qualities and helpful nature in recruiting, an area that she has focused heavily on during her time at Messiah. The results show, especially in how strong the program has grown.

“We try to make it valuable for each kid, no matter what their role is,” Tobias says. “It’s all about Jesus. We’re looking to play for Him. I have great memories of great, great kids—at all different stages, when we were good, when we were not so good. I would think, ‘man, I wish I was that mature at your age.’”

For all the growth that has occurred, Tobias still makes the commitment to spiritual growth a top priority.

“I keep trying to challenge them in their faith—because you’re never there, there’s always room to grow. And athletics are an amazing tool for that. If you keep refining, you never know how much better you could become.”

But for all the achievements Tobias has reached with her team, this year’s group is pushing to reach one more goal.

“She has always told us that if we win MACs she’ll get a tattoo, so we definitely want to see that happen,” says Gallagher.

If it comes to that point, it can be sure that Coach Tobias will follow through on the deal with a smile. After all, with the mark, it makes sense that Messiah Volleyball would leave a mark on her.

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SPORTS & REC

Outdoors Club Opens Up New (Out)Doors

By Maddie Crocenzi

D

o you ever find yourself wanting an outdoor adventure as elaborate and beautiful as the ones featured on Instagram? If so, the Outdoors Club has you covered.

“We provide mostly free trips to students on campus to come out and enjoy being outside and enjoy sweet trips they wouldn’t have the means to do otherwise,” says Outdoors Club President Emilie Myers.

These free trips include kayaking, caving, hiking, and climbing at various locations. Students can also attend trips that require additional equipment or transportation at a low cost. White water rafting is around $30 a person and the fall break vertical caving trip is $40 per person.

“Everything we do, if they’re paying, it’s because it’s a really expensive trip. We

cover more than half. They’re getting a really awesome deal,” says Myers.

to Skyzone on November 5th, and taking an intermediate kayking trip on November 7th.

A smaller trip, such as kayaking or hiking, typically has thirteen spots open to students in a fifteen-passenger van. The remaining two spots, are for a specialist and a trip leader. Both go through extensive training and meet high standards of approval to ensure safety.

“We do Climbnasium and Skyzone trips during the winter and we try to get out to Roundtop and do a skiing or snowboarding trip,” Myers says.

All equipment for trips is provided to make them as accessible as possible.

Students only have to come wearing the proper clothing and ready to step out of their comfort zones.

“The Outdoors Club is a really easy way to do things that you wouldn’t

The Club has many opportunities open to students this fall. There are normally two kayaking trips each weekend on the Breeches or the Susquehanna River.

The club is going caving in West Virginia next weekend, October 21st, and will be climbing at the Climbnasium on October 30th.

Worried that there will be less opportunities during the winter? Myers says that’s not the case. The Club is planning on doing a kayaking roll session at a local YMCA on October 31st, making a trip

have the means to do otherwise. It pushes people to do new things.

We live in a beautiful part of Pennsylvania, get out and enjoy what God’s made,” Myers says.

If you’re interested in joining the Outdoors Club, email Myers at em1353@messiah. edu to be notified of all upcoming trips.

The Outdoors Club travels locally and elsewhere in the country on special trips.

Students participate in Outdoors Club events throughout the year.

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OCT 2015

Fall Rec Sports: The Definitive Power Rankings

By Caleb Ostrander

One of the most anticipated (and sometimes very humorous) events every fall at Messiah is the start of the rec sports season.

Men’s and women’s basketball and outdoor soccer, as well as co-ed outdoor volleyball, are just now seeing their seasons get underway. Hundreds of aspiring “student-athletes” are thrilled to begin a new chapter in the highly prestigious book of Messiah Intramural Athletics.

Men’s 3 on 3 Basketball Men’s basketball is sure to be a hotly-contested league this year. With 11 teams gunning for the title, there will be no shortage of competition. Some classic basketball puns appear in a few of the team names such as the “Court Marshals” or the “Court Jesters,” and a couple teams got pretty clever with their names, a personal favorite is the unflattering “0-and-76-ers.” Keep an eye on “What’s a Layup?” and “Space Jammers” with both teams having returning champions from last fall.

Women’s 3 on 3 Basketball Three teams will battle it out for the bragging rights to the ladies’ basketball crown this year. “Rocket Power,” “Triple Threat,” and “KeepCalm&StephenCurryOn” will all be getting very familiar with each other this season as they will face each other at least three times, or more once the playoffs arrive. The good news for these teams: They all have 1/3 chance of winning it all.

Illustrations designed by freepik.com

Men’s Outdoor Soccer A plethora of teams will be competing in the men’s outdoor soccer league, as per usual of fall rec sports at Messiah. The names in this league are great, with some of the standouts being “Dyslexia CF,” “FC Real Lottie,” “ABCDE FC,” and “It’s Gonna Get Messi.”

One of the most hilarious aspects of this league is the twin rivalry between captains Alex Reinhard’s and Connor Reinhard’s respectively named “ManChestHair United” and “ManChestHair City” teams. (The latter being the copycat of the two, just ask Alex).

Women’s Outdoor Soccer The women’s soccer title will be a battle between four teams. “Wiz Khafifa,” “The Banana Slugs,” “Sly Tacklers,” and “It’s Muchmore” will all be squaring off over the next couple weeks to determine the top dogs.

Rumor has it the league champion must face the Messiah women’s soccer team for the real championship.

(Rumor also has it not to believe all rumors.)

Co-Ed Outdoor Volleyball The largest league by far, which also happens to be the punniest league, by far, will definitely be one to watch.

Between the 27 participating teams, every volleyball pun known to mankind seems to be featured, from “Bumper to Bumper” to “Setting Ducks” to “All About that Ace” and everything in between, there is plenty of volleyball humor to go around in this league.

Some of the more obscure names feature “Shmorgy Dorg,” “Pancakes and Penguins,” and my personal favorite “Thundering Platypi.” How to determine a champion in a league this big beats me, but time will tell who “sets” themselves apart from the rest.

Overall, the stage is set for a great fall of rec sports at Messiah. Although many warriors will fall in defeat this autumn, what really matters is the true heart of rec sports: everyone having lots of fun and giving it their all! …Just kidding, everyone knows it’s all about the shirt, and anything less should be viewed as unacceptable. May the best teams reign victorious!

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SPORTS & REC

$

& Sports

By Willie Hope

Every year across the country, students pay thousands of dollars in tuition to go to the university or college of their choice. That money goes towards the various needs and wants of the college or university. Most students believe that a substantial amount of that money goes towards athletics.

What most students do not know is here at Messiah only 2.5 percent of the schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s budget, or roughly 2.5 million dollars, goes towards athletics, according to Chief Financial Officer David Walker.

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OCT 2015

photos provided by messiah.edu and the Pulse // illustration by James Gibbons

TUITION

A number that small might shock students since Messiah is a prominent Division III athletic program, known for delivering consistent excellence in many sports. The recognition seems to keep growing, with Messiah’s women’s athletics earning a place in Stack Magazine’s top 10 colleges for female athletes. Both soccer programs’ success remains touted nationally, as the men have won ten national championships since 2000, and the women five.

Softball, wrestling, and track and field have each won recent national championships as well. Despite all of this, academics truly come first at Messiah.

Contrary to other state-funded or larger universities, Messiah’s athletic budget is not based on prominence or performance. Every year, the athletic department is given a set amount of money to spend.

Athletic Director Jack Cole, reminds students that “we can only control the operational budget given to us.” Once the College gives the department the 2.5 percent cut of the school budget, it is up to the department to distribute it amongst sports. The athletic department cannot try to negotiate for a bigger cut. Cole fully agrees with this arrangement and says the program is “extremely blessed to have what we have.”

Messiah’s overall operating budget is 91 million dollars, most of which is funded from the students’ tuition dollars. While a set percentage of student tuition dollars do go to athletics, Walker says it is an “intellectual stretch to be able to determine just how much that is (on a per student basis).”

“The budget is tight, but fiscally achievable,” says Walker. This requires sacrifice from coaches, but Walker says they are never disagreeable about the outcome. “Coaches would like to see more funding,” Walker says, “but they are good stewards with the resources they receive.”

Another aspect of Messiah’s smaller athletic budget hinges on its Division III status. Division III schools cannot give athletic scholarships. “Students understand that there aren’t going to be those big athletic scholarships,” Walker says. Additionally, the majority of athletes who come to Messiah are not expecting to play their sport at the professional level. However, there are a few cases in which Messiah athletes have gone on to play professionally, such as baseball player Chris Heisey, but it is rare.

Most simply play because they love the sport.

Teams also supplement budget funding with their own fundraisers and individual team funds. The funds teams have received are more than enough in virtually every case. “In my time here, I haven’t yet experienced a situation where budget funding hasn’t been sufficient,” Walker says.

Compared to other Division III schools, Messiah is comparable with those who do not have a football program. Compared to Lebanon Valley College, another college in the MAC, Messiah’s allotment is very similar. Cole put LVC’s athletic budget at around 3% of the operational budget, which is slightly higher than Messiah’s, mainly because LVC has a football program.

One misconception people may have about the athletics budget may be tied to the fact that Messiah is planning to renovate Sollenberger Sports Center.

Some have argued that it is only benefitting the athletes, and that more money must be going into the athletics program in order to make the renovations happen. However, the Sports Center has not been updated since 1985, and the new renovations are intended for the general population at Messiah.

The renovations will give certain athletic teams who play in the Sports Center better facilities overall.

These athletic teams include wrestling, basketball, volleyball, and swimming. However, the project also gives the general population new opportunities that they did not have before, with new gyms and a newer fitness center and weight room.

These future projects on the Sports Center further show the equal treatment of Messiah student athletes and students. The notion that student athletes receive benefits because of their athletic prowess is a myth.

As mentioned before, no athletic scholarships are given at Messiah.

Student athletes are considered general students, with a little less free time and a lot less money left on their meal plan at the end of each semester.

So how does all of this factor into student tuition?

In terms of where student money goes, most of it is not to athletics. While the common perception may seem different, all the numbers say otherwise. “As far as us taking chunks of student money to fund athletics—it’s a myth,” Walker states, “we have a good balance here.” Overall, Messiah is a school that puts the general student population and academics first, while keeping God at the center of it all.

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