The Miami Hurricane -- July 15, 2010 by The Miami Hurricane

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IMPRESSION A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E M I A M I H U R R I C A N E

A tradition of excellence STEVEN STUTS // File Photo

April 26 - April 28, 2010

THE MIAMI HURRICANE

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Welcome to

Miami 2010 Donna E. Shalala President

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Now it’s

your turn

Patricia A. Whitely Vice President for Student Affairs

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Welcome to the

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family

Dear New Hurricane, I am excited to welcome you to the family, the Hurricane family.

Get excited because you are about to embark on a journey of a lifetime! Becoming a ‘Cane is truly an honor. It is time for you to make your mark in this world and the University of Miami is here to show you the way. A Hurricane is a force of nature, not easy to be reckoned with. You now belong to a community and family from all over the world that blends beautifully and then bleeds orange and green. It is important to understand the hurricane spirit you are becoming part of. Being a ‘Cane is more than just cheering for a great football team or excelling in academics. It is a way of life. Students are given opportunities to work in any field and are challenged to take the lead.

Christina Farmer UM Student Government President

Exciting things are happening at UM and we are glad that you are here to share in this great experience. I want you to be aware of a couple of things as you come to your new home. Student Government in coordination with Auxiliary Services will be offering a Textbook Rental Service at the Bookstore. We are excited to offer a chance for students to rent books at half the price that you would to pay to buy them. Make sure that you wear ORANGE to the first football game. It is important for us to stand out as we are cheering on our ‘Canes. As Student Government President, I will be hosting a weekly lunch for any student to ask questions or to pitch ideas to me. Make sure you go to all of the Orientation events your first week . These events and information sessions will give you invaluable information and also offer a great place to meet your fellow classmates. Go to CANEFEST. We have over 280 different student organizations; come and find the one that fits your passion. Student Government is here to put U First; our door is always open. Please do not hesitate to contact me over the summer with any questions you have about your upcoming year and about how to get involved on campus. My email is c.farmer@umiami.edu. I look forward to meeting each and every one of you! See you at orientation! Go ‘Canes! Christina Farmer President Student Government University of Miami

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New center welcomes alumni back to school Building to open this fall on Hurricane Drive BY LAURA EDWINS SENIOR NEWS WRITER

A university is measured by the achievements of its alumni, and at the University of Miami there’s a lot to be proud of. There are actors and entertainers like Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, Gloria Estefan and Enrique Iglesias. There are business tycoons like Ralph Alvarez, president and COO of McDonald’s Corporation, and even former mayor of Miami, Manny Diaz. The list of notable alumni from UM goes on and on. To honor the contributions these graduates have made to their respective fields and to the university community, the University of Miami Alumni Association will open the new Robert & Judi Prokop Newman Alumni Center this fall. The purpose of the building is to serve as a welcome center for returning alumni, to provide more university office space and to act as a gathering place for the UM community as a whole. At 70,000 square feet, the alumni center will house its own library and café as well as a living room, a conference room and a courtyard to be used as an indoor/ outdoor space. The four-story building is currently under construction at the corner of Brescia Avenue and Hurricane Drive facing Alex Rodriguez Park at Mark Light Field. World-renowned architect and Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) professor Michael Dennis designed the building to provide alumni, students and friends of UM with both intimate and grand settings in which to congregate. "This building should not be flown in from a corporate office park," Dennis said. "It should be more like a house or a villa. In a climate like this, colonnades, promenades and courtyards are part of the program." Like many buildings on the University of Miami’s Coral Gables campus, the alumni center is designed to echo the unique style and atmosphere of South Beach’s modern hotels. Dennis’ main concern while designing the center was to create a comfortable,

CHELSEA MATIASH // Photo Editor

BREAKING GROUND: Donors from the University of Miami Alumni Association to the new Robert and Judi Prokop Newman Alumni Center along with President Donna E. Shalala broke ground at the ceremony. It is scheduled to open this fall. inviting space that was both moving and powerful. "There are many ways—some fun and some more serious—to make a building unique and give it personality," he said. To add to the building’s unique personality the alumni association is selling brick pavers, which can be engraved with a message and will be placed in and around the new building. The pavers are intended to provide alumni with the opportunity to leave an everlasting impression at the university that has given them so much, and that they have given so much to. "Each student who has attended the University of Miami has added to its character, piece by piece,” said Robert Prokop Newman, who graduated from UM with a B.B.A in 1963 and donated to the new center. “The pavers will be an integral part of the magnificent new Alumni Center—a way to memorialize the people and events that form the University's living history." Laura Edwins may be contacted at ledwins@ themiamihurricane.com.

To learn more about the Robert & Judi Prokop Newman Alumni Center, to view the construction by live web cam or to see sketches of the new facilities visit miami.edu/alumnicenter.

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Christina De Nicola Jess Jurick Robert DuBord Robert Radziewicz Chelsea Matiash Alexandra Leon Amanda Gomez, Christina De Nicola Kenneth Garcia, Allison Goodman, Felipe Lobon & Demi Rafuls Ivan Rocha Maria Jamed

First Impression is published annually and is edited and produced by undergraduate students at the University of Miami. This publication does not necessarily represent the views and opinions of advertisers or of the university’s trustees, faculty or administration. Newsroom: 305-284-2016 Business Ofﬁce: 305-284-4401 Fax: 305-284-4404 © 2010 University of Miami SUMMER 2010

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Freshman orientation teaches UM traditions

Toppel Center offers free career guidance Start getting advice once on campus BY MEGAN GARBER SPECIAL TO FIRST IMPRESSION

TANYA THOMPSON // File Photo

ALL ABOUT THE U: Football coach Randy Shannon and women’s basketball coach Katie Meier show freshmen how to do the “U” at ‘Cane KickOff last August.

Six-day introduction to include smaller sessions BY JONATHAN BORGE CONTRIBUTING NEWS WRITER

Orientation is a time when students can get their first taste of what it means to truly bleed orange and green. Six days of all-new activities are set to establish pride, tradition and love of alma mater. Focusing on the fundamental first year of college, the orientation staff has been working hard to ensure that new students feel completely welcome and comfortable during their first few days. Unlike previous years, orientation will now focus more on the students' easy adjustment to a new lifestyle at the University of Miami. According to Dr. Brian Orefice, director of orientation, the main goals are to ensure that students successfully engage in both social and academic integration. Orientation will now consist of smaller, more streamlined sessions. “We recognized that orientation is a process and not an event,” Orefice said. “After these first six days, we will continue to reach out to students throughout the semester, providing more in-depth information.” Centered on the theme “My choice, My future, Miami,” Orientation 2010 will also be more personalized for freshman, transfer and international students. While freshman ori-

entation will emphasize tradition and spirit, international students will discuss coming to a new country and dealing with language barriers. Transfer students will have a shorter, two-day program that will focus on the unique aspects of the Coral Gables campus. Additionally, there will be a continuous outreach towards commuter students. “We want commuters to have mentors and resources,” Orefice said. “The Commuter Assistants are in more active positions and will help students early on from the Great Start program in the summer, to Orientation in the fall.” Student coordinators are especially ready to get this week started. After many hours of preparation, they are ready to share the experience they enjoyed their first year with new students. “I became an orientation leader because I had a great experience as a freshman and I wanted to provide that same, great 'new experience' at UM with other students,” said Maury Abascal, a rising senior majoring in marketing and motion pictures. “I think this year's group of student leaders make the perfect group to guide our new students and provide them with the knowledge and information they will need to succeed.” The first meeting with orientation groups is scheduled for Aug. 19. Jonathan Borge may be contacted at jborge@ themiamihurricane.com.

Great academics, small class sizes, a beautiful campus and diversity: these are all things that may have attracted you to the University of Miami. Now that you are about to begin, you will soon find that UM has more to offer than you even thought possible. One of the great services that you will soon have access to is the Toppel Career Center. From the moment you arrive on campus, you can use the Center’s services to find your true interests, choose a major, find internships, create your own business, prepare for graduate school and, of course, find a job. Beginning with your freshman year, you will find that Toppel has resources for every stage of your college career, even if you are uncertain about your major or career path. With three career aptitude tests, career advising and programs on different industries and companies, you’ll soon have a better idea what direction you would like to head in. Toppel has a great staff of advisors that are willing and very eager to help! Another component of career advice is The Launch Pad at Toppel, which will help you create your own job. The Launch Pad serves both beginning and experienced entrepreneurs, assisting with opportunity recognition, feasibility assessment and strategy for starting and growing companies or non-profits. Entrepreneurship is a career choice for students from all backgrounds and majors, and it’s a career choice that you can start your freshman year! Whatever career path you want

to pursue, Toppel offers many interesting programs and workshops. There are workshops in resume and cover letter writing, interviewing skills and dining etiquette. Every semester there are different programs, such as Careers in the Music Industry, Careers in Sports, Diagnosing Your Healthcare Experience: A Guide for Pre-Health Students and Exploring Your Summer Options. These programs cover different industries and provide an opportunity for students to hear what industry insiders have to share regarding their experiences, insights, and advice. There are also two large career fairs each year called Career Expo. At these career fairs, students have the opportunity to interact and speak to over 100 employers. These fairs are attended by a variety of companies such as Deloitte, Citi, General Electric, Microsoft, and the CIA. Toppel also has specialized career fairs such as an Architecture Career Fair and a Government & Non-Profit Career Fair. These fairs are an excellent opportunity for students to interact and network with employers and will ensure that you will feel very comfortable with employers when the time comes to apply for a permanent position or internship. Toppel has something for everyone. To learn more, please visit www.HireACane.com. You can also get a head-start by following us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/ toppel and Facebook (just search for Toppel Career Center). Stop by when you get to campus, take advantage of the resources and don’t let the opportunity pass you by! Welcome to UM! Megan Garber may be contacted at m.garber@miami.edu.

Toppel has something for everyone. To learn more, please visit www.HireACane.com. You can also get a head-start by following us on Twitter at www.twitter. com/toppel and Facebook (just search for Toppel Career Center). Stop by when you get to campus, take advantage of the resources and don’t let the opportunity pass you by! Welcome to UM!

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Wellness Center expansion shifts workouts Overcrowding meant need for an upgrade BY JONATHAN BORGE CONTRIBUTING NEWS WRITER

With construction well underway, the expansion of the Patti and Allan Herbert Wellness Center will be finalized by mid-February 2011. The current phase of construction will remain the same through the summer and into the first half of the fall semester. As a result of overcrowding due to a dramatic increase in the student population, designs and renderings for a double-sized fitness room, two multi-purpose rooms and new restrooms began in December 2009. The indoor fitness room will increase the facility’s size from 6,800 square feet to 10,000 square feet. The additional space will allow for about 50 new pieces of cardio equipment, new classes and state-of-the art light and sound systems. The temporary inconveniences that currently exist will only give way to a more comfortable and adaptable Wellness Center. “We’ll be able to leave the weight training equipment and the weights in the fitness room until around Thanksgiving,” Director

of the Wellness Center Norm Parsons said. “Everything will be usable besides the outdoor basketball courts.” Center Court will serve as a main space for cardiovascular equipment like treadmills and elliptical machines, while the existing fitness room is slowly transformed into construction staging areas. “Obviously there’s a little bit of an inconvenience because it’s not the same atmosphere,” said Alana Jones, a rising sophomore fitness assistant at the Wellness Center. “But you can still come get your workout and benefit from having the equipment available.” The Wellness Center staff will continue to establish a close relationship with its patrons throughout the different stages of construction. E-mail messages, Facebook, Twitter and white boards found throughout the Wellness Center will assist in keeping gym users wellinformed on the status of the expansion. The overall organization of the expansion process is designed to keep the majority of equipment available and group classes on schedule. Incoming freshmen will also be updated on the process of construction. According to Parsons, the transition of new students during the orientation process this upcoming fall will be in small, tour-like groups. There will be no grand opening.

CHELSEA MATIASH // Photo Editor

MIAMI’S WORKOUT PLAN: The Patti and Allan Herbert Wellness Center is mostly crowded in February, when there is often even a wait for the machines. Parsons said the greatest challenges lie in managing the staff and guests through the inconvenience and as the construction process unravels. “With all good things sometimes we have to take a half a step backwards in order

to go two steps forward,” he said. “So for now, we will put up with the inconveniences.” Jonathan Borge may be contacted at jborge@ themiamihurricane.com.

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New smoking fee may help to kick the habit $50 charge on insurance plan BY REBECCA ZIMMER CONTRIBUTING NEWS WRITER

Beginning in the fall, a $50 per semester surcharge will be added to the university health insurance plan of students who smoke. Students will need to fill out a form on myUM stating whether they are a smoker. Those who confirm that they are smokers, as well as those who do not fill out the form, will be charged the $50. This will be the first year that students will be charged an additional fee for smoking. University of Miami staff and faculty have been paying a smoking surcharge since 1992. Under staff and faculty’s 2010 medical plan, smokers’ monthly premium for medical coverage will be increased by $40, and if their spouse/domestic partner is a smoker, their monthly premium will be increased by $40 as well. Rising junior Shayla Malauulu is on the UM health insurance plan and is currently a smoker. “I understand that it may be more expensive to cover smokers, but college students aren’t likely to get sick because we haven’t been smoking for long,” she said. “I’m already on my

way to quitting and plan to be completely smoke-free by this fall.” Jennifer S. Cohen, executive director of health plan administration for UM, said that statistics show how costly smoking can be. “According to the American Cancer Society, smokingrelated medical costs averaged more than $100 billion each year between 2000 and 2004,” Cohen said. “This translates to $2,247 in extra medical expenses for each adult smoker per year as of 2004. These additional expenses are for cancer, cardiovascular disease, etc.” Rising junior Laura Costa is also a smoker, though she is not covered by the student health insurance. She believes, however, that the surcharge will ultimately be beneficial. “I think it’s a good thing because if you’re on the school’s health insurance, you should understand that they’re just taking precautions in case something bad happens,” she said. “I think it’ll help people realize that they need to quit smoking.” In filling out the insurance papers, students are on their honor to be honest about their smoking habits. Lying, however, may have consequences. “Students will be referred to the Dean of Students Office for suspected cases of dishonesty,” said Dr. Howard Anapol, direc-

PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY RACHEL STEINHAUSER

SIN TAX: Rising senior Chris Velante smokes by the University Center Rock. This fall semester smokers that have the university’s insurance plan will be charged an additional $50. tor of student health services. UM’s main campus is taking small steps toward becoming a smoke-free campus, following the example of the Miller School of Medicine campus, which went completely smoke free on March 2. The university also provides numerous resources to aid students who want to quit smoking and avoid the fine.

The “Be Smoke Free” program offers free “Quit Smoking Now” classes at the wellness center. The classes offer resources for smokers interested in kicking the habit. Smoking Cessation Services is another option available to help students quit smoking. Medical providers are available to help with smoking cessation for all students eligible

to receive care at the Student Health Services and smoking cessation aids, including nicotine replacements and other medications. These are free for those on the UnitedHealthCare Student Health Insurance plan. Rebecca Zimmer may be contacted at rzimmer@themiamihurricane. com.

‘STAY:’ UMPD’s new safety emergency policy Department aims to raise awareness BY RAMON GALIANA SENIOR NEWS WRITER

The next time the Coral Gables campus is flooded with red and blue lights, it won’t just be up to the police to keep students safe. In a statement released on Feb. 22 to the university community, the University of Miami Police Department (UMPD) issued a new policy regarding on-campus incidents that reinforces personal responsibility and safety during

emergency incidents. The new STAY policy is designed to provide direction to students, faculty and employees should an emergency occur. The name of the new policy is a mnemonic device that helps one remember the instructions: Secure your area, take cover, advise and you must take measures to protect your safety. “What we had here in place, it was a model that followed high schools, middle schools and elementary schools, which is ‘lockdown’,” UMPD Chief David Rivero said.

According to Rivero, the university’s former lockdown policy was derived from the response to the 1999 Columbine High School massacre. “[The lockdown] model existed in our emergency plans and in reality we can’t meet that criteria because UM is such an open campus,” Rivero said. “There are many buildings that we can’t even lock the doors to.” Part of the challenges the university faces during emergency situations is the ability to lock all buildings and keep people inside. According to Rivero, only about 50

percent of the buildings on campus can be locked remotely through Cane Card access. To raise awareness, UMPD will incorporate the STAY policy into its presentations during freshman and transfer orientation. The university’s human resources department will also sponsor programs to raise awareness for employees and faculty. “If you’re sitting in a little cubicle by yourself, no one is going to lock the door for you,” Rivero said. “You’re going to have to take care of yourself. There’s a perception that somehow people are goSUMMER 2010

ing to come, lock doors and keep you safe. It’s impossible to do that here.” One student familiar with the policy agrees that UMPD faces unique challenges in a location like South Florida. “You can’t be everywhere,” rising junior Ryan Zangeneh said. “The text message and e-mail service helped last semester during the incidents. There’s only so much you can do because Miami is so open.” Ramon Galiana may be contacted at rgaliana@themiamihurricane.com. FIRST IMPRESSION

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Hurry ‘Canes shuttles routes restructured Shorter wait times expected BY ALEXANDRA LEON NEWS EDITOR

Since first-year residents cannot park their cars on campus, Hurry ‘Canes shuttles offer an easy way to travel around school and Coral Gables. Beginning next semester, the shuttles will be even easier to use. The Department of Parking and Transportation will be altering shuttle routes in the fall to make the shuttle service more efficient for students, while also reducing fuel costs. “We asked ourselves what would be the best and most costefficient way of accomplishing our goals,” said Richard Sobaram, director of parking and transportation. “I think it’s practical and

fair to say that we need to get people within a five-minute walking distance of their destination while cutting out our current extensive wait times.” These changes will affect the current route schedule. The new schedule will include two shuttle routes, the Ponce Garage/Fountain Route and the Ponce Garage/Stanford Circle Route, with six buses travelling simultaneously. There will be 14 stops, four fewer than before, reducing the wait time between buses to five to eight minutes, which should improve service to 95 percent of shuttle riders. Sobaram’s department arrived at these conclusions by surveying Hurry ‘Canes passengers and conducting simulations for new bus routes in 2009. The department timed buses at peak traffic hours and is adjusting routes

according to how quickly buses can arrive at their destinations. About 100 students, faculty and staff members answered the survey, with a strong majority agreeing that having shuttles arrive on time was their main concern. “I’m glad to hear that they’re doing something about it,” said Loubna Turjuman, a rising senior majoring in broadcast journalism and psychology. “I stopped using the shuttle because every time I wanted to use it I was waiting for about half an hour and I was always getting to class late.” Another concern bus riders had, according to Sobaram, was having shuttles piggyback each other. Because of the way the three shuttle routes have been structured in the past, buses would often arrive back-to-back after long wait periods. “The buses were not running the same route, so they couldn’t

coordinate with each other,” Sobaram said. However, the changes to shuttle routes will impact certain groups of riders more than others. Metrorail riders will now have to switch shuttles at the Ponce Garage to reach stops on the Fountain Route; Mahoney/ Pearson residents will use Stanford Circle as their pick-up/dropoff point; University Village residents will use either the Brescia stop or the Hecht Athletic Center stop to access shuttles. Getting to these stops, however, will not take more than a five-minute walk. “We went out and actually walked it, and no walk took longer than five minutes,” Sobaram said. “Our main concern is getting students from point A to point B more quickly. We can’t have a door-todoor service and cutting down the number of stops will also allow us

to economize on fuel.” Shuttle changes may pose an inconvenience for some students, but availability is their biggest concern. “I don’t really care about the changes. As long as I have a shuttle to take me where I need to go, it doesn’t make a difference to me,” said UV resident Nikolaus Rizos, a rising senior majoring in broadcast journalism and geography. Students can use the university’s shuttle tracking service at UMshuttles.com, which they can log onto from their computers or cell phones, to determine how long they should wait for their bus. The service displays the buses by GPS and gives an estimated time of arrival at designated spots. For longer trips, the university also provides students with Zipcar. Students using Zipcar can rent a car at an hourly rate of $8 that includes both gas and insurance after paying a $35 yearly fee. They can also be parked for free at any university parking lot. Zipcars can be reserved on the telephone or at zipcar.com. Alexandra Leon may be contacted at aleon@themiamihurricane.com.

HURRY ‘CANES SHUTTLE The Ibis Ride provides off-campus shuttle service DESTINATIONS: The Shops at Sunset Place, Publix, CVS, Whole Foods HRS OF OPERATION: Thurs - Friday, 5 p.m. – 2 a.m., Saturday 12 p.m. – 2 am., Sunday 12 p.m. – 6 p.m. DESTINATION: Coconut Grove HRS OF OPERATION: Thurs - Saturday, 8 p.m. – 3 a.m.

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Frost one of the top music schools

A&S finds niche for every interest Expansive program offers unique freshman experience BY SAVANNA STIFF CONTRIBUTING NEWS WRITER

COURTESY FROST SCHOOL OF MUSIC

WIND BENEATH YOUR WINGS: The Frost School Wind Ensemble performs at its concert at the Gusman Concert Hall during the 2009 spring semester for the University of Miami’s Frost School of Music.

New fall program an added boost BY BROOKE BURGSTAHLER CONTRIBUTING NEWS WRITER

The Frost School of Music is listed among the top music schools in the country, and a new, ground-breaking program this fall called the Experiential Music Curriculum could boost it higher up the charts. The purpose of the mandatory curriculum, which begins this fall, is “to provide an integrative music teaching and learning environment that ensures all undergraduate students receive a broad education that includes all aspects of musicianship,” according to the school’s Web site. “It is more reflective of the vision of the dean and of the faculty realizing that a lot of music schools were training people the way they were 100 years ago,” said Julia Berg, director of marketing and communications for the Frost School. “They really felt like it was time to make some curricular changes in that way.” The Experiential Music Curriculum focuses more on hands-on experience rather than theoretical approach. Each week, students learn about music theory, composition, ear training and music history in small groups rather than large lecture classes. And the sessions explore a wide array of

musical styles in the process. The school, with roots stretching back to the founding of UM in 1926, now has about 500 undergraduate and more than 200 graduate students. They are taught by a faculty of 58 full-time professors and 56 adjuncts. There are more than 4,500 Frost alumni in the United States and around the world. Frost students can choose from a plethora of majors, including theory/ composition, instrumental keyboard and vocal performance, music engineering, music education and music therapy. The wide selection of majors is one thing Berg says sets the Frost School apart from other music schools: “There is an incredible broadness of musical subjects that someone could study here in addition to the necessity of maintaining a very high level of performance training.” Rising junior Paige Martins, who is in the musical theatre program, said that the variety of musical knowledge the Frost School offers was her main reason for attending. “Frost really works hard to give every type of student, whether they are studying instrument, voice, music business, music education, etc., the full experience to gain any knowledge they can or want,” Martins said. “We are required to take a variety of different classes that develop us into stronger musicians and give us a head

start for our futures over other students studying music elsewhere.” Classes in the Frost School are fairly small, often around four to eight students, which dovetails nicely into the Experiential Music Curriculum. Furthermore, ‘Cane Records and CAT5 Music Publishing, a studentrun record label and a publishing company respectively, are successful business ventures that give students more hands-on experience and better preparation for industry jobs after graduation. Frost also hosts a number of major events through the year to showcase talent. The biggest one happens every fall when Festival Miami– now in its 27th year– offers dozens of concerts to entertain students, faculty and campus visitors. Come senior year, Frost students are given the opportunity to showcase their talents and teachings through the Senior Concert Experience. Recent graduate Dion Kerr, who studied jazz performance, said the concert is a great opportunity for music students and the audience. “You get to put together a group of musicians and a program of music that best demonstrates your ability on your instrument and as a composer,” Kerr said. Brooke Burgstahler may be contacted at bburgstahler@themiamihurricane.com.

During her first semester at the University of Miami, Dani Graham found herself at the Miami Seaquarium swimming with dolphins as a part of her “Sounds Of The Sea” class. “’Sounds of the Sea’ was one of the most invigorating classes I've had here because of the field trips and the way the information was taught,” Graham said. “Having a professor that usually only teaches high-level classes was a good way to learn the difference between college and high school right off the bat.” “Sounds Of The Sea” is just one class offered as a part of the College of Arts and Science’s (CAS) Freshman Seminar program, which offers freshmen small, specialized classes, such as “Utopias and Disenchantments” and “Extreme Weather Conditions,” taught by distinguished faculty members. The classes are limited to 18 students and foster mentoring relationships between professors and students. At the University of Miami, CAS boasts the largest student pool and the most diverse range of majors— 36. From Microbiology to Africana Studies, religious studies to biochemistry, French to computer science, a diversity of programs and opportunities allows virtually every student to find a niche. “My priorities are to make sure faculty have what they need to be world-class scholars and to ensure that our students are actively engaged in that scholarship,” Jacqueline E. Dixon, Interim Dean of CAS, wrote on the college’s Web site. CAS incorporates several different honors programs into its curriculum that offer students smaller classes and a discussion-based approach. The General Honors Program is open to all Arts and Sciences majors, while honors programs in marine geology, medicine, and Latin American Studies target specific majors. “They put on a lot of events; they’re always hosting talks and films so you can supplement what you’ve learned inside the classroom and make it relevant,” said Stephanie Kryzak, a rising junior double majoring in international studies and anthropology. “Next semester I can’t wait to take a class on imperial China.” CAS also provides ample research opportunities that extend literally across the globe. Students have studied volcanoes in Iceland and primates in Madagascar, as well as conducting research in UM labs. The college’s “Beyond The Book” scholarship allows students to submit proposals for the opportunity to win $2,500 to fund their research. There are also plenty of avenues for students interested in the arts to express themselves. Recently, CAS has opened art galleries on campus and in Miami ’s Wynwood Art District, a hub for the modern art movement in Miami. Writers can take advantage of the Creative Writing program, whose students have produced over 40 published books. Or by Mangrove, a literary journal that publishes once a semester and features works of poetry, short fiction, non-fiction and visual arts. With such a wide range of programs and extracurricular activities available, CAS offers something to meet almost every student’s interests. Savanna Stiff may be contacted at sstiff@themiamihurricane.com.

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Peer mentors give freshmen a ‘great benefit’ Business school creates experiences BY DANA HATIC CONTRIBUTING NEWS WRITER

Paola Ortiz came to the University of Miami no stranger to community service, but her decision to major in business brought her up close and personal with an entirely new community outreach experience. During the fall 2009 semester, Ortiz and eight other freshman business students worked to develop an informational pamphlet for the Center for Autism & Related Disorders (CARD). It was designed to market the organization and spread awareness about autism. The project was part of one the school’s courses, in which students work together under the guidance of a teaching assistant to create a project for a local nonprofit organization (NPO), focusing on developing effective tools

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for messaging, marketing and branding for the NPOs. This collaborative effort aims to help students develop the interpersonal skills needed for teamwork in the business world. Last year, Vice Dean Linda Neider introduced the course as a part of the F.I.R.S.T. Step Program (Freshmen Integrity, Responsibility and Success through Teamwork), a program created to provide freshmen the opportunity to learn about civic engagement, business practices and ethics. The course, which is mandatory for freshmen, involves lectures on Mondays and Wednesdays and a separate section on Fridays in which the freshmen, divided into groups of eight to 10, meet with a student teaching assistant. The lecture portion of the course focuses on acquainting students with the functional areas of business and issues entailing social responsibility, business ethics and social entrepreneurship. It exposes freshmen to introductory principles and prepares

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them for the more rigorous concentration classes they will take later on in their college careers. Ellen McPhillip, the assistant dean of the School of Business, said that this course ensures that when freshmen enroll in upperlevel courses, they are not blindsighted by topics and terms. She added that this innovative course helps freshmen decide which major they wish to pursue. The group portion of the course offers freshmen the opportunity to interact with peers and NPOs in the Miami area. This year, the groups are working with 17 different organizations. “Together, as a team, they develop solutions,” McPhillip. Nadja Koch, an alumna who served as a peer mentor in the course, saw great benefits in the new program. “The course introduces freshmen to a higher level of business class coursework than they normally would have gotten early on,” Koch said. “As a TA I learned how to guide others and

emphasize the shared experience of getting along.” Ortiz quickly recognizes the benefits of having a peer mentor. Her TA, Melissa Hebra, helps the group work together to apply the business principles learned in class to produce the informational pamphlet for CARD. Peer mentors are “wonderful touchstones for the freshman ex-

perience,” McPhillip said. Koch described the group project experience of the course as invaluable, both for her and for the freshmen. “It’s great for students to do something of that magnitude early on,” Koch said. Dana Hatic may be contacted at dhactic@themiamihurricane.com.

CHELSEA MATIASH// Photo Editor

FROM CORAL GABLES TO WALL STREET: Students at the School of Business receive opportunities as soon as they reach campus.

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Undergrads explore the Galapagos Islands Living laboratory offers practical learning BY SARAH HARTNIG CONTRIBUTING NEWS WRITER

The Galapagos Islands are perhaps most well known for their role in Charles Darwin’s five-year voyage aboard The Beagle, where Darwin performed ground-breaking research, exploring the archipelago’s exceptional biodiversity by collecting data that established the foundation for modern evolutionary theory. This spring, 11 undergraduates from UM’s Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science (RSMAS) took advantage of the newly implemented “UGalapagos” study abroad program designed to provide students with a handson learning experience. Although students involved in the program sat through morning lectures on topics such as species evolution, conservation biology and sustainable management in marine and terrestrial ecosystems, afternoon excursions allowed the undergraduates majoring in marine affairs and marine science to truly take advantage of the wonders of the Galapagos. “UGalapagos offers students an incredible opportunity to study in one of the most unique and pristine natural environments on the face of the earth,” said Larry Peterson, associate dean of academic affairs and a professor at RSMAS. In addition to snorkeling with species like sea lions, penguins and sea turtles, students also performed fieldwork under the supervision of UM faculty members, as well as experts from the Isabela Oceanographic Institute (IOI), located in the Galapagos. “It was an amazing academic experience both in and out of the classroom,” said rising senior Katharine Woodard, a marine biology major and trip participant. “You learn more about yourself and it just made me enjoy my major a lot more again because we were out in the field and we were able to see exactly what job opportunities were available.” According to Peterson, students enjoyed the “living laboratory.” During their trip, the undergraduates stayed with host families in Puerto Villamil on Isabela Island, providing the students with the opportunity to immerse themselves in the local culture and improve their Spanish-language skills. The students also received a taste of the local seismic activity when, following the 8.8 magnitude earthquake that struck Chile on Feb. 27, the Galapagos 20

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FINDING MARINE LIFE: RSMAS students who take part in the UGalapagos program snorkel with species like sea lions, penguins and sea turtles when they’re not in the informative morning lectures about species evolution and biology. were put under tsunami warning and students were forced to f lee to the IOI’s second-f loor classrooms. There was even a 4-foot drop in water level. “Our group saw the small tsunami, after which the area quickly refilled,” UM professor Michael Schmale said. “We also saw several smaller surges follow over the next 30-60 minutes.” According to Schmale, there was never any danger to persons or structures on land. “They had the whole adventure,” RSMAS communications director Barbra Gonzalez said. Although the first semester of UGalapagos was geared toward RSMAS students, this fall UM plans to extend the program to target students majoring in a wider variety of subjects. Students will take classes like geology and anthropology in order to fulfill general education requirements. “For students interested in the natural world, I can’t imagine a better place to spend a semester,” Peterson said. COURTESY RSMAS

Sarah Hartnig may be contacted at shartnig@themiamihurricane.com. SUMMER 2010

REPTILE WORLD: Native lizards can be found during fieldwork around the Galapagos. Students are supervised by University of Miami faculty members.

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School of Architecture workshop helps Haiti rebuild Participants met with UN officials BY COLLEEN DOURNEY CONTRIBUTING NEWS WRITER

The School of Architecture hosted a five-day workshop at the end of March to help suggest ideas for rebuilding Haiti after the destructive earthquake in January. It all began when the Haitian government’s commission for reconstruction asked UM’s School of Architecture to help it with postearthquake rebuilding plans. The result was an overwhelming response to help. Ultimately, it was decided that the best way to hear everyone’s ideas and make the most of the unique situation was to hold a “Charrette.” A Charrette is a collaborative effort that integrates ideas from many areas to achieve the best results for one common vision. Joining UM participants were architects, economists, engineers, city planners and simply anyone else

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who wanted to lend a helping hand from all over the United States as well as participants from Haiti. All of the contributors to the Charrette were volunteers and helped purchase plane tickets for members from Haiti’s post-earthquake teams. Individuals from the Haitian front included United Nations ambassador Leslie Voltaire. “The mission was to illustrate the vision of the plan that will be presented in New York by the Haitian government,” Voltaire said. “I think we’ve succeeded in a way that will allow us to go from city-to-city and get input from populations and help rebuild our country after the earthquake.” The final presentation of the workshop was revealed at the Glasgow Auditorium by Dean of the School of Architecture and Distinguished Professor Elizabeth PlaterZyberk. “The presentation was not supposed to be a final solution or plan, instead illustrations and ideas to provide broader goals and strategies to

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be discussed by the Haitian government who will make the final decision,” Plater-Zyberk said. In the final presentation, the efforts of all groups were incorporated in a showcase full of possible sketches and ideas. Included were ideas to possibly grow economies in new rural areas that the Haitian people have retreated to. The Charrette highlighted the already-strong Haitian culture and exposed it to make the country’s cultural wealth better known. Activities such as zip lining and SCUBA diving, as well as cultural characteristics such as Haitian architecture and art were the focus of the possible solutions in order to strengthen the Haitian community and the tourism industry. Sonia Chao, director of the Center for Urban and Community Design and a research associate professor, saw this as a unique opportunity for many architecture students. “It gave them an opportunity to understand the roles architects play in civic life as leaders,” Chao said.

Several different plans were also drawn up as alternative, temporary housing for displaced Haitian residents called “starter shelters.” Plater-Zyberk uses the term in order to provide hope for additions to the shelters as the rebuilding process continues instead of the possibility of the shelters remaining as tempo-

rary housing. “It was a great experience and now we plan to stay as involved as possible and begin working on funding to help out our Haitian neighbors,” Chao said. Colleen Dourney may be contacted at cdourney@themiamihurricane.com.

LINDSAY BROWN // File Photo

POINT TO THE MATTER: Marinna Yerak presents her team’s plan for the Habitat for Humanity project to representatives.

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College of Engineering now has free remote access Students balance academics and rec BY DANNI ZHAO CONTRIBUTING NEWS WRITER

Students in the College of Engineering will no longer have to be on campus to work on computer assignments. That's because the implementation of Virtual Academic Computing (ViAComp) provides free remote access to all the specialized engineering software used in teaching undergraduate and graduate engineering courses. ViAComp is compatible with iPhone apps, including its newest tablet computer, the iPad. "I can work on my senior project while I'm backpacking throughout Chile," said Giro Samale, a recent graduate in industrial engineering and economics. Students in the College of Engineering are required to have their own computer so that they can interface with ViAComp. With need-based financial aid packages available through UM, they can either purchase a new laptop or

upgrade their current one to meet the required ViAComp specifications. Founded in 1947, the College of Engineering is located on the west side of campus. It offers bachelor of science degrees in aerospace, architectural, biomedical, civil, computer, electrical, environmental, industrial and mechanical engineering, as well as engineering science, and masters and doctoral degrees in a number of disciplines, with several specializations in each field of study. With students from 50 different countries spanning each continent except Antarctica, the College of Engineering has an impressively diverse student body. The college is 28 percent female (double the national average) and ranks among the top 10 nationwide in female enrollment. It is also seen as having one of the most intense and demanding curriculum on campus. "The biggest challenge you might have is balancing your social and academic life," said Ya-Ning Peng, a graduate student majoring in industrial engineering. "Time management is the most important skill that you should have if

you pursue a program in the College of Engineering." To help its students succeed, the College of Engineering gives personalized attention to students immediately after enrollment. Freshmen are matched up with peer counselors, who have been carefully selected from the school's sophomore and junior classes. These counselors offer tutoring during a student's first year. They usually work with five to seven students, ensuring that engineering students receive information about on-campus resources and important dates. In addition, Engineering Dean James M. Tien, who has an open-door policy for his students, hosts a monthly "STEM (second Tuesday of every month) Coffee with the Dean" session. Students can ask questions and discuss their ideas with him over a cup of coffee and biscotti. The college provides many opportunities to its students to learn from research and collaborate with professionals from a wide spectrum of disciplines. The three primary areas of research are healthcare and technology, informatics and risk and sustainable systems.

Also, the college provides some free specialized engineering software, such as Minitab and Maple, which students can download to their own computers. "You don't need to pay a large amount of money to purchase the software,” Peng said. “The college is providing us with lots of useful tools.” To supplement UM’s Toppel Career Center, the College of Engineering operates its own Career Service Center to provide its students with information on job opportunities. The college also has its own placement program that works with industry partners, including Microsoft, GE, Johnson & Johnson, among others. Students in the College of Engineering also enjoy their extracurricular activities. The Society of Woman Engineers mentor high school students and host an annual Introduce a Girl to Engineering Day. Engineers Without Borders travel internationally to establish safe water and other infrastructure systems. Even Salsa Craze, a UM dance team led by two engineering students, helps engineering students dance their stress away. Danni Zhao may be contacted at dzhao@ themiamihurricane.com

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Three programs rank among nation’s best School of Ed provides variety BY ANTONELLA STELLUTO CONTRIBUTING NEWS WRITER

With three of its programs ranked among the “Best in the Nation” in the annual Academic Analytics report, the University of Miami’s School of Education offers students a variety of innovative programs in education, psychology and health. The school is made up of three departments: Teaching and Learning (TAL), Educational and Psychological Studies (EPS) and Exercise and Sport Science (ESS). Each area has a number of programs that are popular with new students. A relatively new program that is getting a lot of interest from freshmen is Human and Social Development, the only undergraduate major offered by the EPS department. This program is available to incoming

freshman and transfer students who are looking to work with people in community programs, universities, schools and governmental as well as non-governmental agencies. “Students are enjoying this program because it deals with how to work with communities, corporations, individuals and families by applying psychology,” said Shawn A. Post, associate dean for undergraduate academic services. Meanwhile, the Exercise Physiology program, offered by the ESS department, is the fastest-growing undergraduate major in the School of Education. This area of study, primarily selected by pre-medical and biology students, provides skills in the operation and use of some of the most sophisticated biomedical equipment. “Exercise Physiology is very popular among students because it has a pre-med track,” Post said. “So freshmen and upcoming students who are in-

terested in going on to medical school and who want to build real-life skills should consider this option. There are many new students that are not yet aware of the pre-med pathway this major offers.” The Professional Training Option (PTO) is a pathway for non-education majors. Open to “any major” throughout the university, the PTO is an 18-credit minor that provides students with the ability to begin teaching with a three-year state teaching certificate that is given once the student passes the state’s content examination in the teaching field he or she chooses to focus on. Along with the traditional majors in elementary and secondary education, the TAL department is starting a 12-credit minor in special education that gives Teaching and Education majors the opportunity to receive multiple certifications in both elementary and special education programs.

CHELSEA MATIASH // Photo Editor

AN EDUCATION: The School of Education is located in the Merrick Building in the heart of the Coral Gables campus. “In the past we had a major in the field, but due to a lack of enrollment it disappeared for the past two years,” Post said. “Now, we will have it again as an option, but this time as a minor program.” The special education mi-

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nor will be available to undergraduate students in Spring 2011. Antonella Stelluto may be contacted at astelluto@themiamihurricane. com.

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RSMAS provides hands-on learning experience Marine research one of a kind BY SARAH HARTNIG CONTRIBUTING NEWS WRITER

Recently named one of the top-five institutions in geosciences by Thomson Reuters' “Essential Science Indicators,” UM’s Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science provides students with a unique, hands-on approach to learning. Located on Virginia Key on a 65-acre marine research and education park, RSMAS offers majors in biological, chemical, geological and physical oceanography, marine biology, marine science/computer science, meteorology and marine affairs and policy. This past spring, RSMAS launched the R.J. Dunlap Marine Conservation Program in conjunction with the Leonard and Jayne Abess Center for Ecosystem Science and Policy. This program will follow the model set by the

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successful South Florida Student Shark Program in order to further the study and conservation of shark species in Florida waters. “We will be able to expand the program to address other marine species and reach new audiences around the world,” said Neil Hammerschlag, director of the R.J. Dunlap Marine Conservation Program. According to Hammerschlag, the program will even offer an “Adopt a Shark” program. “[This program] will enable us to track great hammerhead and bull sharks using sophisticated satellite tags that students will help attach to live animals," Hammerschlag said. "That will allow us to better understand their migratory routes and habits, which will assist us in creating stronger polices to protect these critically threatened species.” Rising sophomore Cameron Rhodes participated in the Dunlap conservation program this past school year. “It is very rare for students,

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especially freshmen, to be able to experience this kind of hands-on work,” Rhodes said. “RSMAS does a great job of making sure young students can get a wide variety of incredibly interesting internships and other opportunities.” Rhodes recommends that incoming freshman and transfer students take advantage of the unique opportunities provided by RSMAS, and not count themselves out before they try. “I never expected to receive such a great internship as a freshman, and fortunately I was accepted,” Rhodes said. “RSMAS helped make that possible.” This past spring RSMAS also launched UGalapagos, a new study abroad program that allowed students majoring in marine affairs and marine science to study the Galapagos Islands’ brilliant biodiversity and endemic species. The RSMAS campus, next to the Seaquarium on the Rickenbacker Causeway, is about eight

miles away from the Coral Gables campus. Hurry ‘Canes shuttles run daily between the two campuses from about 7:45 a.m. to about 5:30 p.m. “Undergraduates bring a new dimension and a new energy to

our campus,” RSMAS communications director Barbra Gonzalez said. “They go out and do wonderful things.” Sarah Hartnig may be contacted at shartnig@themiamihurricane.com.

COURTESY BARBRA GONZALEZ

MOTION OF THE OCEAN: RSMAS offers students internship and job opportunities on the 65-acre Virginia Key campus.

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SoC students get a head start

Professional schools on rise

Comm school houses several media outlets

Medicine and law continue to move up national rankings

BY PATRICK H. TODD CONTRIBUTING NEWS WRITER

Now celebrating its 25-year anniversary, the School of Communication is giving students more opportunities to develop practical skills than ever. Located at the northern end of campus, the school offers its students a variety of hands-on experiences in several areas of communication, from journalism to advertising, public relations to film studies. “Students at the School of Communication graduate with a solid resume of projects attractive to employers in a competitive job market,” Dean Sam L. Grogg said. “The school is committed to offering students practical and professional-level experience in their chosen field while they pursue their undergraduate and graduate degrees as part of our ‘Hands On, Early On’ programs.” The hands-on opportunities begin right away and increase as students develop more skills and expertise. “As early as their freshman year, students get more than enough exposure and work experience to tackle any opportunity in the future,” Assistant Dean Luis Herrera said. As a result, Herrera said, most students are ready to make a swift transition from college into the workforce. One of these outlets for professional experience is the Knight Center for International Media, which is focused on adapting evolving digital technologies for the easy f low of news and information across national and cultural borders. Like the rest of the school, the center offers students the chance to anchor major projects on under-reported issues of global significance, such as the world’s water challenge and the transforming cities of the world. The school also provides a popular entertainment outlet for all UM students, faculty and the Miami community. The Bill Cosford Cinema in the nearby Memorial Building shows a va-

BY RAMON GALIANA SENIOR NEWS WRITER

CHELSEA MATISH// Photo Editor

First Amendment: Rising senior Brittany Ramos gives her winning speech at the Common Ground Soap Box Freedom of Speech contest at the SoC. riety of award-winning contemporary, classic and foreign films in a classic widescreen format, which are free of charge for current students. The hall also hosts lectures from renowned actors and directors, some of who are school alumni. Students at the school have ample opportunity to practice what they learn. Among them: UM’s debate team, the advertising and public relations agency PRADUM, the Society of Professional Journalists and igKnite, which stems from the Knight Center. The School of Communication also houses its own cable television station, UMTV, and supports other student-run media outlets including The Miami Hurricane newspaper, WVUM radio, Distraction magazine and the Ibis yearbook. All of them have collected dozens of major awards that recognize them as being among the best college media outlets in the country. For example, UMTV walked away with eight first-place awards at the National Broadcasting Society AERHo National Production Competition for student work and its programs.

Last year, the program “Newsvision” was nominated for a 2009 Suncoast Regional Emmy. “If your dream is to anchor the nightly news, break the news that makes headlines or run a show in a TV studio, UMTV is for you,” said Natalia Crujeiras, director of broadcast operations at the station. “UMTV gives students hands-on training in television production with state-of-the-art equipment and serves the Coral Gables community with programming that is educational and engaging.” PRADUM recently launched an innovative event called “PhilADthropy” in which students provided local non-profits with pro bono help with logo/identity design, print ad concepts, TV storyboards, radio scripts, brochures, newsletters, posters, direct mail and interactive design concepts. “The work in the agency is as close as it gets to real work experience,” said Ivette Yee, director of communications and an alumna. Patrick H. Todd may be contacted at phtodd@themiamihurricane.com.

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Despite economic pressures to cut funding and other challenges facing the university, two of UM’s professional schools and one program continue to improve. According to the 2011 edition of U.S. News and World Report, the University of Miami’s professional schools have risen again in national rankings. The UM Miller School of Medicine, formerly ranked No. 51, is now placed at No. 47, according to the news magazine. Like UM’s undergraduate ranking, the medical school can now boast a top-50 spot. “This prestigious ranking from U.S. News is further evidence of the high caliber of our students, our education and the research being conducted at the Miller School of Medicine,” said Pascal J. Goldschmidt, dean of the medical school, according to UM Media Relations. “[It] ref lects our deep commitment to educating the medical leaders of tomorrow, while making the discoveries that will help patients in South Florida and around the world.” The Miller School’s physical therapy program is ranked seventh in the nation. The medical school rankings were based on the submissions of 120 schools. Also, the School of Law is now ranked No. 60, rising 11 positions from its previous rank. Of particular note is the ranking of its tax law program, which broke into the top of the rankings at No. 5. “I am pleased to see this public acknowledgement that the UM School of Law is a place on the move,” said Patricia White, dean of the law school, according to UM Media Relations. Additionally, the clinical psychology graduate program of the College of Arts and Sciences ranked No. 25 out of a total of 210 schools. In 2010, the program received 500 applications to fill 15 open slots. The Department of Psychology is overall ranked No. 60 of 241 schools. The 2011 edition of U.S. News and World Report was published in May and is now publicly available. Ramon Galiana may be contacted at rgaliana@themiamihurriane.com.

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Pitching tents for Haiti

ALEX BROADWELL // File Photo

U R Awesome: Recent graduate Kemy Joseph pitched tents on the University Center Green in order to recreate tent cities in Haiti after the earthquake.

Student activist went to island to assist BY ANDREA CONCEPCION SENIOR NEWS WRITER

Out on the Green, near the path to Richter Library, stands a rather large tent. Scattered a few feet away are some glow sticks, a deck of cards, shoes and stuffed animals. On a cold Miami night, wearing a blue bathrobe over his clothes, recent graduate Kemy Joseph tried selling these items to pay for his meals. “The hardest thing for me to do is set prices for this stuff,” Joseph said. Joseph planned to spend a maximum of $10 per day on meals. A percentage of the money he earns from selling personal items will go towards buying flipcams for citizen journalists to record the devastation in Haiti. Joseph, the founder of UR Awesome Inc., and former president of Random Acts of Kindness (RAK), pitched the tent to bring awareness and insight to the UM community on what is really going on in Haiti. When RAK led the Haiti donation drive, Joseph predicted people would begin forgetting about the tragedy by March. During spring break, Joseph took the initiative to spend eight days in Port-auPrince. When he came back he decided to pitch a tent and live like many of the now homeless Haitians. Gustavo Lang Jr., president of RAK, was inspired by Kemy’s initiative and sense of action. “If you set your mind to it, you’ll find 28

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a way to make it happen,” he said. Joseph saved up money and went on his own. “The first two days I went to the provinces and those days affected me the most,” Joseph said. “It was hard to sleep.” He witnessed the tent cities, in which mounds of trash surrounded rows and rows of tents. Though many people think all of Port-au-Prince must have been destroyed, a significant amount of structures still stand. Many homes are still intact with running water and electricity like Joseph’s family home, where he stayed during his trip. Some pharmacies, restaurants, banks and even radio stations are open. “Port-a-Prince is a very poor Miami,” he said. “It just sucks that the beauty is overlooked and blocked by the amount of sadness.” He found that the best aid to give the Haitians was not donations, but rather, the chance for work. Ninety percent have no jobs. Many times mobs would form where officials gave job contracts. Throughout the trip, Joseph filmed his experiences. Tod Landess, a School of Communication staff member who leads a group of student media organizations and volunteers trying to keep the idea of Haiti relief alive will post the footage on the group’s Web site, kozeayiti.org. Koze means conversation in Creole and Ayiti is the Creole spelling of Haiti. “It’s so easy when you’re in this environment to forget the innocent living in hell on Earth,” Landess said. Andrea Concepcion may be contacted at aconcepcion@themiamihurricane.com.

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Four SAE brothers visit Haiti in relief effort Weekend mission brought supplies BY COLLEEN DOURNEY CONTRIBUTING NEWS WRITER

While weekends in college usually consist of relaxation and freedom, on the weekend of Feb. 19, four UM students instead traveled to Haiti as a relief effort. After congregating under the leadership of UM alumnus, Peter Groverman, 120 people made the decision to travel to Haiti in order to help the victims of the Jan. 12 earthquake. Among these 120 were four UM students, as well as Coral Gables Mayor Don Slesnick, II. Groverman is no stranger to organizing relief efforts. He first extended a helping hand when Hurricane Katrina hit Biloxi, Miss. in 2005 with the help of fellow UM students, now alumni, Armando Gutierrez, Jr. and Lori Bailey.

Groverman, a law student at Villanova University, along with Gutierrez and Bailey, founded the RELIEF Foundation, which stands for “Relieving and Embracing Lives Interrupted by Earth’s Forces.” “As soon as the earthquake happened, I started receiving text messages from people with ideas that wanted to help,” Groverman said of his team. He then reached out to members of the UM community, including those of his fraternity, Sigma Alpha Epsilon. Four members of SAE answered the call for service. Evan Gallo is one of those members who was eager to help. “I was truly excited to go to Haiti and help out the members of their community,” he said. “I’ve always been involved in service, but this was definitely a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to be a part of a hands-on experience that means a lot to me.” Gallo, as well as three other

SAE members, Michael Eisenstein, Elias Hionides and Joey Rappaport, got vaccinations, packed up supplies and contacted friends and family for donations to support their trips. The crew left Feb. 22 at 8 a.m. out of Miami and returned three days later. Gallo was excited for their arrival in Port-auPrince because Haitian Prime Minister Jean-Max Bellerive was there to greet them. The final plans for the fourday mission included loading up a 737 airplane and a chartered boat with as many supplies as possible consisting of food, water and building supplies. “Our main goal was to help rebuild an orphanage in Portau-Prince by setting up a tent and delivering supplies to those in need and then by just being there for these people,” Gallo said of the trip. Colleen Dourney may be contacted at cdourney@themiamihurricane. com.

JESS HODDER // File Photo

SAE: Joey Rappaport, Elias Hionides, Michael Eisenstein and Evan Gallo with Mayor of Coral Gables, (center) Don Slesnick II.

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Butler Center urges students to volunteer Gandhi Day is top service event BY ALEXANDRA LEON NEWS EDITOR

For those who want to participate in community service and leadership initiatives at the University of Miami, the Butler Center for Volunteer Service & Leadership Development (SLC) delivers. “Service and leadership is a big part of my life,” said Natalie Fontela, a rising sophomore majoring in athletic training. “It’s just something that makes me happy and every time I volunteer I leave with an experience that opens my eyes to lives outside of my own little world.” Fontela became involved with the SLC by joining STRIVE (Serving Together Reaching Integrity, Values & Engagement) her freshman year. STRIVE is a “living and learning” organization under the SLC in which students share a common living area in Pearson Residential College and are committed to civic engagement,

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volunteer service and leadership endeavors, according to the SLC Web site. Members must complete a certain number of service hours a week, participate in service programs and take part in a mentoring and networking program with their peers. “Being in STRIVE and around the members just encourages me to keep doing what I’m doing and never give up on the passion of helping my community,” Fontela said. Rising senior Matthew Robayna, a political science major, also found the perfect avenue for becoming involved with community service early on by taking advantage of the SLC’s Freshman Leadership Academy, which offers students the opportunity to attend personal development workshops and seminars, during his first year at UM. He is currently a community assistant for STRIVE and has served as a site leader for campus-wide service events such as National Gandhi Day of Service and travel-based service programs such as UM Alternative Breaks. “Leadership to me is really about taking initiative: seeing something

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that needs to be done, be it a small task or something that changes the world, and actually doing it,” Robayna said. “One of the things I love about the SLC and the programs that I participate in is the tie-in between service and leadership, in the sense that leadership is strongly focused on taking service to another level.” The SLC also offers other programs to first-year students who wish to make a difference in their community and refine their leadership skills. First Year U helps students become better acquainted with their professors and the Miami area while learning about leadership. There is also a Freshman Fellows program that enables freshmen to become more involved in community service. All of the SLC’s programs revolve around the Active Citizen Continuum model. According to Robayna, the model says that there are people who volunteer their time without really understanding what they are doing or what the larger purpose behind their service is, and the SLC wants to turn that around. “It should be the goal of service

TANYA THOMPSON // File Photo

MAKE A DIFFERENCE: Several groups at the University of Miami participated in the National Gandhi Day of Service in 2008. and leadership education to help people understand root causes behind social issues and move them to dedicate their lives to working to affect change at the root rather than on the surface level,” Robayna said.

For more information, visit the SLC’s office in Whitten University Center, Room 240. Alexandra Leon may be contacted at aleon@themiamihurricane.com.

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Healthy vending machines the new trend Five currently on Gables campus BY REBECCA ZIMMER CONTRIBUTING NEWS WRITER

Healthy vending machines have revolutionized snacking. Chips and cookies are no longer the only option. Now, anyone can choose from a variety of fruits or vegetables. Jan. 29 marked the unveiling of the new healthy vending machines on campus. “I think it’s a good thing,” said Brody Shulman, then a secondyear law student. “I have seen tons of students walking around with fruit, and the great thing is that it’s about half the price compared to Starbucks.” The innovative new trend makes it easier and more convenient to eat healthy. Busy students may quickly stop by these vending machines on their way to classes. All the fruits and vegetables are replaced three times a week in

order to guarantee freshness. “I’ve worked for UM for 15 years, and this is the first time I’ve ever seen something like this,” Vice President of Auxillary Services Mel Tenen said. There are currently five machines: Two contain fresh fruit and two contain healthy snacks like granola bars, 100-calorie snacks and other low-calorie options. The Ashe Building houses a fresh fruit machine and a healthy snack machine, the law school offers a fresh fruit machine and the University Center and the Memorial Building have healthy snack machines. “Our plans are to expand the program, based on student input and sales, to several more locations,” Tenen said. All of the selections range from $1 to $2.25. “It is consistent with our wellness efforts,” President Donna E. Shalala said. “I think the students will appreciate it.” The healthy snack machines will replace duplicates of regular

snack machines in some areas, and in other areas they will just be an addition. Students like Brad Fishburger do not like the idea of the new machines. “I don’t buy pre-packaged fruit,” he said. The fresh fruit machine in the law school was the first machine to be available and all of the selections have generated considerable sales. “A combination of feedback from students and the availability of these brand new machines are what prompted us to get them,” Tenen said. “These are the first of many.” By the summer, the university plans to make all of the snack and drink machines, including the new healthy machines, accessible by credit and debit cards. At the moment vending machines across campus have limited credit and debit availability. COURTESY UM MEDIA RELATIONS

Rebecca Zimmer may be contacted at rzimmer@themiamihurricane.com.

YUM: Vice President of Human Resources Nerissa Morris, President Donna E. Shalala and Sebastian the Ibis unveil the options.

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Student government promises a good year Summer dedication facilitates new programs BY ANDREA CONCEPCION SENIOR NEWS WRITER

In a small cramped office room, Nick Cote is writing on a dry erase board. His small handwriting shows three columns titled “To Do,” “In Progress” and “Completed.” The To Do column has the longest list of items. Nick Cote is treasurer of student government (SG). He was going over what needs to be done for the new administration for the upcoming year under the new president, rising senior Christina Farmer. For the first time, the majority of the SG executive board members will be in attendance over the summer to develop the platforms they promised in their campaign for the next year. Rising sophomore Ryan Aquilina, the SG press secretary, a new position that Farmer’s administration created, said that if SG gets its major proposals ready to move, they will be ready to advertise them at the beginning of the fall semester. “We can use the time to really reach out,” he said. “We want to focus on the new things.” After their first three weeks in office, the newly appointed SG executive board completed one policy they guaranteed in its campaign platform. During finals for the spring 2010 semester, students had a 24-hour library and a 24-hour C-store. SG members also hosted a study break, where they greeted students and gave out snacks, and served midnight breakfast at the Hecht-Stanford Residential dining hall. During the summer, members will take on some of their initiatives as projects. For example, rising senior and Vice President Valentina Lamas will be in charge of bringing a Fresh Farmer’s Market to the Rock. The market would offer healthier options and welcome local organic farmers to sell their produce at the heart of campus. “It would be cheaper in price than Publix or Whole Foods,” Lamas said. “It’s something that the students will want.” Lamas said President Donna E. Shalala was receptive to the idea, but she has to figure out where to place it. Cote, a rising senior, will not be joining the members staying during the summer, but he will have his own project: improving the pre-professional tracks, such as pre-law and pre-medicine. Cote said he wants to secure more 32

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CHELSEA MATIASH // Photo Editor

OATH OF OFFICE: President Christina Farmer (left) and Vice President Valentina Lamas get sworn in as members of student government for the 2010-2011 school year. They campaigned during the spring semester as the UFirst ticket. advisers for the different tracks. Right now, advisers help with courses students need to graduate, instead of classes that will benefit them in general. “There are so many gateways these degrees afford, [other] than the certified doctor,” Cote said. He has talked with Christian Garcia, head of Toppel Career Center, and Dr. William Green, vice provost and dean of undergraduate education, about what is next and what is going to be accomplished. Farmer’s main goal is to bring greater student involvement into the SG process. She also wishes to have open meetings on the UC Foote Green for students to ask questions and give feedback. “We don’t want people to come to the SG office,” Farmer said. “We want to go to them.” SG is working on hosting an idea generator for its Web site. The members want to have students share their concerns or thoughts on projects they would want done. It will provide resources on where to go and who to go to. All the suggestions will be read at the executive board meetings. “It takes a while to find out where to get things done,” Farmer said. “There are SUMMER 2010

so many administrators.” Additionally, SG wants to work together with the other branches of student government. The legal aid platform has been given to the judicial branch to work on. The idea will give students a chance to gain advice from lawyers and law professors from the School of Law and probono lawyers outside of the university. Farmer said they will work on it all summer and hope to have it in the fall, but

for now, it’s in the preliminary stages. “We’ll be here,” she said. “Come see us, we’ll come see you. It’s going to be a good year.” For more information on next year's student government, visit www. voteufirst.com. Andrea Concepcion may be contacted at aconcepcion@themiamihurricane.com.

SOME STUDENT GOVERNMENT INITIATIVES FOR 2010-2011: Fresh farmer’s market Improvement of preprofessional tracks More efficient food services: Credit card use in kiosks, calories on menus, slushy machine in C-Store, 24-hour C-store during finals Student legal aide Textbook rental service Canes Nights to experience Miami on and off campus

Convenient parking service, discount carpool passes, wellness and apartment area all-access lots Campus-wide access to software, such as SPSS, Adobe Creative Suite and Final Cut, through the internet UPlanner: Sync your calendar with UM events of your choice Rent-a-Bike program

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International Week celebrates diversity COISO is mother org for 20 groups BY NINA RUGGIERO SENIOR NEWS WRITER

One student organization tries to spread a message to the university community through a week of events: When love and cultural diversity join forces, anything is possible. For the first week of April 2010, the Council of International Students and Organizations (COISO) took over the UC Patio with its annual event, International Week. COISO is the mother organization to 20 smaller international student groups on campus. This year the event was extended over five nights instead of its usual four to include Asia Night, Caribbean/Pacific Islander night, Africa/Middle Eastern night, Latin night and a new event, Unity night, to bring all of the cultures together. The theme, “For the Love of

COISO,” was based on the VH1 reality love television series. “We wanted the last night to culminate with the theme of people from all different backgrounds coming together for the common love of COISO,” said Valerie Valero, the organization’s secretary and I-Week chair. The week kicked off with a Chinese dragon parade from the HechtStanford Bridge to the UC. Members then performed a skit centering on a person searching for love in Asia. Caribbean/Pacific Islander Night featured dances and a skit in which a character went island hopping in order to find a suitor. Rising senior Lisa Davis, treasurer of the Organization for Jamaican Unity (OJU) and COISO cabinet member, was in the show and helped with operations of the week’s other events. “I love the idea that a bunch of students can put together such an extravaganza in spite of all the obstacles involved,” she said. “Last year there were dancers, fire breathers,

stilt walkers- it was epic. I am looking forward to doing it again.” Different cultures are matched up each year to encourage different groups to work together. “The goal is to spread awareness about the cultural diversity on UM’s campus,” Valero said. The African/Middle Eastern Night show told the story of love between people of two different backgrounds. The show involved belly dancing and professional performers from the Miami area in addition to student performers. Latin Night included Flamenco and Tango dancing as well as a salute from the National Association of Latino Fraternal Organizations (NALFO). And as a bonus for many students, plenty of free international food was given out each night. “If nothing else attracts students, this could be a whole week away from Charties,” Valero said. Nina Ruggiero may be contacted at nruggiero@themiamihurricane.com.

DOMINIQUE RIOFRIO // File Photo

ALOHA: International Week extends over five nights and includes Caribbean/Pacific Islander Night with dances.

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Dean Hall holds court at Wellness Center Encourages students to exercise and play BY KELSEY PINAULT CONTRIBUTING NEWS WRITER

As the dean of students, Dr. Ricardo Hall sometimes faces the frustration of dealing with problem students charged with everything from plagiarism to criminal acts. So to blow off steam and do something he loves at the same time, Hall can be found most weekdays rocketing a small ball off the walls of the Wellness Center racquetball courts. Hall, who began playing in college, has DEAN HALL made racquetball one of his favorite physical activities. Whenever he can, he tries to block off an hour or so around lunchtime to play. "I think that physical activity provides a good outlet and lets us balance ourselves," Hall said. To encourage students to exercise too, Hall started his personal Racquetball Challenge. Any student can contact the Dean of Students Office to schedule a match. Just send your name, C number, phone number and preferred times to play to doso@ miami.edu. And if a student wins two out of three games, Hall buys lunch. So far, though, he hasn't had to spring for the food. "I just wanted to get some games together and I thought it would be fun to play students," said Hall, who estimated that only about a half-dozen students have accepted the challenge so far. When there aren't students to play, Hall has matches with friends from the university faculty and staff. Since he plays mainly for fun and exercise, Hall said he doesn't keep track of his record, but thinks he has won more games than he's lost. One of his regular opponents, Associate Director of Housing Bob DuBord, says Hall is a tough competitor. "He takes the game very seriously and is really enjoyable to play with," DuBord said. Hall, who also likes basketball, soccer and football, takes his position as dean of students just as seriously as he takes his passion for sports. Starting as a resident assistant at Ohio University, where he earned his doctorate, Hall has always been interested in helping students with their troubles.

Prior to coming to the University of Miami in 2006, Hall worked at four other schools- University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, Indiana University of Pennsylvania, Clemson and Wake Forest. "Dean Hall is a great person to meet with if you have any issues with teachers, students or classes," said Jenna Marie Perez, a recent graduate. "He always shows you he cares and listens." When he's not in racquetball clothes, he's almost as easy to spot around campus wearing one of the bow ties from his vast collection. And that's not all he collects. His office in the Student Services Building next to the Pavia Garage is adorned with an array of Pez candy dispensers that he's been amassing for 15 years, ever since he saw a "Seinfeld" episode on TV that reminded him of the childhood toy. Hall's job, however, does not always entail dealing with problems. He is involved with students in organizations across campus, including the Center for Alcohol and Other Drug Education, Greek life, campus chaplains, crisis management and student-community relations. Hall also oversees the Undergraduate Honor Council, which protects the academic integrity of the university. Over the years he has created strong relationships with many students and staff alike. "Dean Hall is a teacher, a friend, a comic book fanatic, a leader, a racquetball champion- but, most of all, an inspiration," said Ren Werbin, graduate assistant and advisor to the Honor Council. "Anyone who comes in contact with him truly leaves as a better person, inside and out."

COURTESY MIAMI.EDU

MAKING A RACKET: Dean Ricardo Hall waits for the ball to bounce off the wall in one of the racquetball courts at the Patti & Allan Herbert Wellness Center.

Kelsey Pinault may be contacted at kpinault@

IF YOU GO WHERE: Wellness Center racquetball courts WHEN: TBD INFO NEEDED: Name, C number, phone number and preferred time CONTACT: Dean of Students Office at (305) 284-5353 or doso@miami.edu If a student wins two out of three games, Dean Ricardo Hall will buy lunch

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Gay-friendly fraternity adopted at the university Re-defining the meaning of what it is to be Greek BY COLLEEN DOURNEY CONTRIBUTING NEWS WRITER

The college Greek stereotype typically isn’t comprised of gay and bisexual men, yet fraternities at the University of Miami chose to defy that image. During the spring 2010 semester, by a vote of 10-2, the university’s fraternity presidents approved the adoption of Delta Lambda Phi, a gay, bisexual and progressive male fraternity. The Interfraternity Council (IFC) affords every fraternity one vote in deciding whether to allow another fraternity to colonize or not. Delta Lambda Phi will be the 13th fraternity under the IFC, the umbrella organization of all male fraternal organizations. “Last year all of my friends rushed fraternities. I didn’t want to hide my identity as a gay person,” said rising junior Vincent Foster, president of Delta Lambda Phi. “I started asking around which would be the best fit, and when all of them basically told me they didn’t know, I knew it was time for me to do something.” His friends suggested he just start his own fraternity. “It’s been a long uphill battle, basically a year, but it’s definitely been worth it, now being able to bring Delta Lambda Phi to our campus,” Foster said. According to the IFC’s constitutional

laws, one requirement for any IFC fraternity is that it needed to be recognized by the NorthAmerican Interfraternity Conference (NIC), which Delta Lambda Phi was not. After voting on a constitutional amendment, however, the 12 fraternity presidents of the IFC decided to welcome any male fraternal organization into its ranks. Phi Delta Theta, another fraternity already on campus, is not recognized by the NIC either, but has now been able to overcome the constitutional law. Delta Lambda Phi will begin recruiting in the fall. Beginning in the spring 2011 semester, Delta Lambda Phi will recruit alongside all other IFC organizations. Tony Lake, associate dean of students, advises the IFC through weekly meetings with its five-member executive board. “The [board] members saw that the rule was outdated and decided to change it in order to expand Greek life and get even more students involved,” Lake said. “Our IFC becomes one of a very few fraternity communities nationwide who understand that ‘fraternity’ is about something greater than yourself.” To be a member of Delta Lambda Phi, a student doesn’t have to be gay or bisexual. Gay rights serve as the foundation for the fraternity. “The goal of Delta Lambda Phi isn’t to exclude people; instead, it is to break down stereotypes,” Foster said. Colleen Dourney may be contacted at cdourney@ themiamihurricane.com.

COURTESY VINCENT FOSTER

SAYING NO TO STEREOTYPES: Members of the University of Miami’s newest fraternity, Delta Lambda Phi, pose for a photo. It became UM’s 13th frat. SUMMER 2010

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Special interest housing is a fun, unique experience Similar students live together, bond

Education is the main goal BY CORNELIA GREEN CONTRIBUTING NEWS WRITER

BY CAITLIN GOOD CONTRIBUTING NEWS WRITER

Every spring, students must decide on their living arrangements for the following school year. For those who may want more out of their housing experience than the usual f loor setup, there is another option. Mahoney, Pearson and Eaton residential colleges offer special interest housing for students who share common backgrounds and beliefs. On these f loors similar students have the opportunity to live together and simultaneously enhance their academic and social experiences. Each interest housing group establishes programming and services for the residents through funding provided by the university. There are no additional fees to live on a special interest housing f loor. “Special interest housing provides upperclassman students a family community feel where everyone knows their neighbor and has their door open,” said Emily Vaughan, the Program Coordinator of Special Interest Housing in the Office of Academic Enhancement. The current special interest housing f loors include CASTLE (Canes Advocating a Substance Temperate Living Environment); STRIVE (Serving Together Reaching Integrity, Values and Engagement), a student service community coordinated by the Butler Center for Service and Leadership; and U Live U Learn, where students pursue academic discourse beyond the classroom; The Audio Abode, an environment focused on exploring the applications of sound engineering; Foundations, a community focused on exploration of diversity; Hashi, an environment that encourages the exploration of diverse cultural viewpoints; Becoming a Healthier U, a group of students dedicated to creating a healthy, balanced life; and The Cultural U, who explore academic, career and cultural programming. While STRIVE is a long-standing group, CASTLE and U Live U Learn were themes proposed by students. Rising senior Cybele Safadi has enjoyed expanding her worldly knowledge in special interest hous-

Honor Council promotes ethics

COURTESY EMILY VAUGHAN

WALK THE LINE: This was a ropes course as part of a reorientation for the Spring 2010 semester held at Broward Community College. ing by participating in cultural food dinners and talks with professors. She has also attended plays like “Platanos and Collard Greens” with the other community residents. “The events bring us together, and there is always something exciting to do on the f loor,” Safadi said. Rising junior Jordan Balke, who resided on the CASTLE f loor, hopes to continue living in special interest housing next year. “Everyone supports each other, and you have the ability to take something you like and build upon it,” she said. “It’s like freshman year, but with your own suite.” As a substance-free community, CASTLE hosted a Halloween party as an alternative to partying at the Grove, and wants to become more involved with Safe Spring Break Week. Aside from formally planned events, such as trips to the Miami Museum of Science and Planetarium to see the laser rock show, Balke looks forward to hanging out with her friends in CASTLE. “We go to the Rathskeller on Wednesdays to play pool to get over the bump of the week,” she said. To join or form a special interest housing community, groups must submit applications each spring outlining theme, programming and

goals for the community. The Special Interest Housing Selection Committee will select groups to make a presentation explaining how they will achieve their missions. Since limited space is available, the number of interest groups allowed depends on the number of applicants. Special interest groups need 1232 potential members to be considered for housing. In addition, residents are required to attend monthly meetings and participate in at least half of the f loor events. Safadi recommends that students consider applying for special interest housing even if they only have a minimal interest in it. “You can’t imagine everything that it has to offer,” she said. “The university puts money into doing things we like, and you get to learn more about Miami.” Caitlin Good may be contacted at cgood@themiamihurricane.com.

DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND RESIDENTIAL LIFE 1211 Dickinson Drive Telephone: 305-284-4505

Upon entering the University of Miami, all undergraduate students sign a pledge to uphold the Undergraduate Honor Code. “Every student has a role in seeing that the institution’s academic efforts are above board,” Dean of Students Ricardo Hall said. “The Honor Council plays a role when it’s alleged that an academic work is not a student’s own work or is not properly cited.” The Honor Council, an entirely student-run organization, was established in 1986 as the result of a student referendum. “The student body did vote and decide that they wanted this to be a part of the university,” Assistant Dean of Students Dayle Wilson said. “It gives the students an opportunity to say how the community should be run and have a say in what happens if someone violates the code of ethics within the UM community.” Meeting twice a week, the Honor Council is made up of 29 undergraduate students from the various schools and colleges of the university. Graduate assistant to the Honor Council, Ren Werbin, thinks the Honor Council being a student organization is an advantage. “It’s different when an adult tells you something or when you go through something with an adult versus your own peers,” Werbin said. “I sometimes think it’s more important and more of an eye-opener when your peers are being involved because they are going through what you’re going through at the same time.” Faculty members who feel that one of their students violated the Honor Code can contact Werbin and fill out a violation form. The students are then notified of the complaint. “More times than not, the teacher approaches the student,” Werbin said. “So it’s not a shock when they get the call.” Two student members of the Honor Council are assigned to investigate the case. They speak with both the accused and the complainant to get both accounts, and also review the questioned work in cases of plagiarism. Once reports are filed, Werbin and the two investigators decide whether the case should go to hearing or be dropped. Although many students view the Honor Council in a negative light, its purpose on campus is to help. “It’s tough and it’s hard to sanction people because they see it as ruining their lives,” Werbin said. “But we see it as helping them. When you get out into the real world, you could do a lot more harm to yourself than just learning now.” The Honor Council is not just a disciplinary body. Along with investigating complaints and holding hearings, it also strives to educate the UM community. The Honor Council hosts an Academic Integrity Week every year in the spring semester, but it also promotes academic integrity on a daily basis. Members of the Honor Council make presentations to classes and proctor exams when a professor requests them. “The Honor Council is responsible not just for adjudication,” Wilson said. “But also for educating the community about issues of academic integrity.” Cornelia Green may be contacted at cgreen@themiamihurricane.com. SUMMER 2010

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Office of Disability Services lends a hand Note-takers help fellow students BY REBECCA ZIMMER CONTRIBUTING NEWS WRITER

Thierry Djemmo, a rising senior business major, is an A student who always takes notes in his classes. In his Finance 320 last semester, however, he was not just taking notes for himself, but also for another student in the class— someone he didn’t even know. Djemmo is one of about 500 students across the university who are volunteer note-takers for students with disabilities, who qualify for the accommodation under federal law. Once class is over, Djemmo e-mails a copy to the Office of Disability Services (ODS). “It’s good to know that someone is actually using your notes, that it’s actually helping someone else,” he said. “It gives you incentive to look over your notes since you need to proof-read them before you send

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them out.” One participant, a rising senior who agreed to speak on condition of anonymity, said she has Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), a medically recognized disability. “It’s often hard for me to listen and take notes at the same time,” she said. “If I’m really focused on writing everything down perfectly, then I end up missing what the professor says next.” ODS exists under the mandate of the 1990 Americans with Disabilities Act and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. The laws require that post-secondary institutions supply appropriate aids and services to students with disabilities in order to give them an equal opportunity in the educational process. Note-taking is one of several services ODS offers. A note-taker is responsible for attending every class in which they have signed up to be a note-taker. They are expected to take comprehensive notes on lectures, class discussions and any other communication.

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If they have at least a 3.0 GPA, they are recruited from the classes in which they are currently enrolled. “Everything is confidential. The note-taker does not know which student or students in the class receive their notes,” said Dr. Mykel Jane Mangrum Billups, assistant dean at the Academic Resource Center and ODS director. “This is done for the protection of the student with a disability and the note-taker,” The aids and services are free to students, who must provide documentation of their disability to qualify for help. “Students must register with ODS and be granted note-taking as an official accommodation,” Billups said. “Then students must request notes for each class every semester and abide by the policies and procedures for that accommodation. “This requires students to take their own notes and attend class. Students sitting in class without taking notes or not attending class jeopardize their accommodation.” Potential note-takers are identified through a database. ODS usual-

ly sends e-mails to top students who are in the specific courses that need a note-taker. It is up to the student to volunteer. Note-takers are rewarded with 60 hours of community service, which can be used for any UM club, sorority/fraternity or even outside of UM with the certificate from the

ODS office. In addition, note-takers are given a small gift valued at $25 from the UM bookstore. “It is an easy and impressive addition to any resume,” Billups said. Rebecca Zimmer may be contacted at rzimmer@themiamihurricane.com.

THE ACADEMIC RESOURCE CENTER The ARC at the University of Miami offers a multitude of resources for every constituent of the UM community: students, parents, faculty, staff and administrators. Our goal is to provide resources to help manage success and advance potential. SERVICES: Peer Tutoring; UMX, “The Ultimate UM Experience”; Academic Resource Workshops; Disability Resources; Faculty Support; Resources for Parents. HOURS: Monday, 8:30 a.m. - 6 p.m.; Tuesday, 8:30 a.m. - 7 p.m.; Wednesday, 8:30 a.m. - 7 p.m.; Thursday, 8:30 a.m. - 6 p.m.; Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.

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SportsFest’s celebrated rivalry an honored Hurricane tradition Campus-wide event all about school spirit BY CALVIN CESTARI SENIOR NEWS WRITER

At a University of Miami without SportsFest, there was an annual competition called “Budweiser Super Sports” where students could compete in sports and athletic events for gifts and prizes. Student organizations and individuals would register teams and, according to old yearbooks, the event was fairly popular. Administrators Norm Parsons and Rhonda DuBord decided to make this sports competition a bigger part of student life, however, and so began the legacy of SportsFest. When Hecht and Stanford were built in 1968 they were named ‘68 and 960, the former for its construction year and the latter for how many beds it held. In the 1985-86 academic year, the residential colleges changed their names and ‘68 became known as “The Honors Residential College” and 960 known as “The Residential College.” SportsFest was started in the spring of 1986 as a challenge between the two almost identical counterparts. These two teams, over time, would come to be named Stanford and Hecht. Vice President for Student Affairs, Dr. Pa-

tricia Whitely, was a residence coordinator in the Residential College (‘68, Stanford) the year SportsFest began. After that year, the program added Eaton as a competitor and later Mahoney, followed by Pearson, to round out a five-team, school-wide event by the spring of 1989. Today, there is no bigger student event on campus than SportsFest, boasting over 2,300 participants. “Nobody could have predicted the success of SportsFest, but the residential college system is one of the reasons that it has been so successful,” Whitely said. “It is a great opportunity for students to build community.” Parsons and DuBord are largely responsible for the success that the event has had over the years and are still part of the team that organizes the event. “Participation is essential; with this scoring system, any residential college can win,” Parsons said. Tom Soria is the assistant director of intramurals and special events and the logistical mastermind behind the competition. Organizing an event with so many activities, participants and referees may seem like a mountain of a task, but according to Soria it’s “like seeing a masterpiece at work, almost like a symphony.” Calvin Cestari may be contacted at cmcestari@ themiamihurricane.com.

CHELSEA MATIASH // File Photo

IN IT TO WIN IT: Participants from Hecht Residential College celebrate winning the Ethics award at this year’s SportsFest. Hecht won for the ninth consecutive year.

COSO aims to get all Hurricanes involved Oversees more than 275 student orgs BY IAN HEST CONTRIBUTING NEWS WRITER

The Committee on Student Organizations (COSO) is designed to do one thing: get students involved. If there is a club that exists on campus, it falls under the umbrella of COSO. “COSO is the Student Government of student organizations,” said Jaife Calil, f o r m e r p r e s id e nt of COSO for the 2 0 0 9 -10 school year. “We over view every club and approve new clubs and hold workshops for sponsorship and leadership.” From salsa dancing to Random Acts of Kindness, there seems to be a club that will satisfy all students. If there is a club that doesn’t exist, however, starting one couldn't be easier. “We had 20 new organizations approved last school year,” Calil said. Students only need to submit a proposal as well as a constitution that states the ideals and goals for the club to the COSO offices on the second f loor of the University Center. If you don’t want to start your own club, but are just looking to get involved, COSO hosts two events, one per semester, which showcase student organizations and allows students to see all of the options that they have. These events – Canefest in the fall and the Spring Involvement Fair – give members a chance to pass out information about their clubs and allow interested students to sign up. “I think these events are great,” last year’s Vice President of COSO Amar Mandalia said. “It shows the variety of organizations on campus and really highlights SUMMER 2010

student involvement.” Canefest, a bigger version of the Spring Involvement Fair, is held annually on the f loor of the BankUnited Center. During this event, sponsors give away pizza, drinks and t-shirts, and the University of Miami cheerleaders and dance teams take the stage to perform. “Canefest is a great way to get freshman and transfer students to see what’s going on on campus,” Calil said. “It’s also a really good way to network.” The event is intended for new students, but is so popular that st udents from all grades attend. “Going in as a freshman, it was really beneficial just because it gave you a feel of what you could join and the opportunities you had at UM,” rising senior Heather Gaines said. “I went to Canefest and joined the Young Democrats because I wanted to get involved in the election, and they provided an opportunity for that.” These events are great ways for incoming students who may be overwhelmed by everything thrown their way, but still want to get involved. “These organizations are designed to showcase whatever you could want,” Mandalia said. “It adds to the UM experience.” Ian Hest may be contacted at ihest@ themiamihurricane.com.

IF YOU GO WHAT: Canefest 2010 WHEN: Tuesday, August 24 TIME: 5 to 8 p.m. WHERE: The BankUnited Center FIRST IMPRESSION

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Green building earns LEED certification UM Field House used for various events BY AUSTEN GREGERSON CONTRIBUTING NEWS WRITER

While the lives of many students revolve around which sport is in season, one of the University of Miami’s biggest offseason additions has received national recognition– the UM Field House. Roughly about 30,000 square feet, the structure that sits next to the BankUnited Center was recently certified with the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) rating system at the gold level due to its use of environmentally friendly materials and energy conservation methods. LEED, a set of energy-efficient building standards established by the U.S. Green Building Council, recognizes buildings that utilize “green” construction techniques in an effort to continue raising awareness of the impact made by buildings on the environment. In the United States alone, buildings account for nearly one-third of all greenhouse gas emissions, according to Scientific American. Buildings are subject to a point scale during their design and construction, and if

they meet the necessary requirements, they are recognized for their efficiency. According to a UM press release, Miami’s Field House is just one of 35,000 projects using LEED standards across all 50 states and over 90 countries. “The University is committed to energy conservation and the reduction of energy dependency,” Eduardo A. Lopez, senior project manager of UM Facilities, Design and Construction Department, said in the press release. The UM Field House, with its new basketball courts, is the practice facility for both the basketball teams and is also utilized for various events at UM. This building was part of Miami’s Green U movement, a campuswide initiative started in 2005 to make all parts of the University stay true to one of its school colors. “The green building movement offers an unprecedented opportunity to respond to the most important challenges of our time, including global climate change, dependence on non-sustainable and expensive sources of energy and threats to human health,” said Rick Fedrizzi, president, CEO and founding chair of the U.S. Green Building Council. Earning LEED gold certification, however, may not promise that the building will

successfully conserve energy. According to the New York Times, over half of the LEEDcertified buildings through 2006 did not qualify for the Energy Star label, a program run by the Environmental Protection Agency. What impact the Field House, rather

than just the basketball courts, will have on the environment is yet to be determined. Fedrizzi still thinks the university is at the beginning of something big. Austen Gregerson may be contacted at agregerson@themiamihurricane.com.

COURTESY UM MEDIA RELATIONS

GOING GREEN: UM’S Field House, which is located right next to the BankUnited Center, is roughly 30,000 square feet and hosts various functions and events.

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Ombudsperson gives guidance to students Role is to help in various situations BY ALEXANDRA LEON NEWS EDITOR

Q: What is the role of an ombudsperson? How many are there? The role of the ombudsperson is to listen and provide guidance to students. We facilitate a voluntary process to open communication between students and members of the University community in order to resolve concerns and issues. We listen to student concerns,

gram work? Our motto is “Stop! Come see us first – Student Talking Out Possibilities” Students should see us when they are looking for guidance on how to address a concern such as grade appeals, class withdrawal, financial assistance, or a housing concern. The program was established to open channels of communication between students and the university by providing an identifiable person to listen to student concerns. The objective of the program is to connect students to faculty and administrators who will listen, answer questions, interpret policies/procedures and provide guidance on the appropriate steps to consider for a resolution. We do not want students to feel as though they are being shuff led around and not receiving answers to their concerns. Q: Do different departments on campus get their own troubleshooters? How many troubleshooters are there on campus? A University Troubleshooter is designated by his/her department, college or school to fulfill that role. For 20102011, there are 19 academic troubleshooters and 21 administrative troubleshooters. The listing may be found at www.miami.edu/ombudsperson or by calling 305-284-4922.

GAIL A. COLE-AVENT

investigate the facts surrounding the matter and make objective recommendations to achieve an effective resolution. It is important to understand that the ombudsperson does not dictate or override existing policies. There are two administrators who serve in the ombudsperson role. I have served as the University Ombudsperson since June 2008, and I oversee the Ombudsperson and University Troubleshooters Program. I address student concerns regarding administrative offices and services. Mr. V. Chunoo serves as the Academic Ombudsperson. He focuses on academic concerns with the schools and colleges. Q: How does the Ombudsperson and University Troubleshooters Pro-

Q: What different channels are available for students who wish to contact an ombudsperson or troubleshooter? How does a student get in contact with you? I recommend that a student start by contacting the appropriate University Troubleshooter, first. In most cases, a concern can be resolved at the departmental level. A student may find the contact list on the website www.miami. edu/ombudsperson, which includes email addresses and phone numbers. You may also contact 305-284-4922 to request that information. Once the appropriate troubleshooter has been contacted, you may reach out to an ombudsperson, if needed. You may contact us at ombudsperson@ miami.edu or call 305-284-4922. We request that students fill out the on-line case submission form prior to meeting with an ombudsperson at www.miami.edu/ombudsperson.

Q: What advice would you give to a student placed in a difficult or uncertain situation? Do not be fearful, ashamed or too proud to seek help. We are here to provide support so that you will be successful at the University of Miami. Students often do not access an ombudsperson or university troubleshooter until their situation is at “crisis” level. Crisis level means that it has to be resolved in less than 24 hours and that is often challenging, especially when other departments must be included. This is why we encourage students to start early.

When I was a student at my undergraduate university, I initially had a difficult time transitioning. There were several student affairs administrators who really reached out and helped me identify ways to be successful and continued to provide that support throughout my four years. That same commitment and concern that they had for me is what I strive to provide to collegiate students. I want to see students succeed in all aspects of their life while at UM. I take my time to get know students with whom I am working in one-on-one interactions. Alexandra Leon may be contacted at aleon@themiamihurricane.com.

Q: What do you like best about helping students?

Dr. Cole-Avent’s list of things to consider when addressing a conflict or concern: When in doubt, seek us out. Our motto is probably one of the most effective ways to find a resolution. S.T.O.P and Come See Us First. If you think you have a question or anticipate something may need to be addressed, see us first. The University Troubleshooters and Ombudsperson representatives want to help students talk out possibilities for resolving their concerns. Start early. Many students wait until that last moment, which can be a challenge if a quick response is needed. Start seeking out the appropriate people early. Even if you have a preliminary question, the troubleshooters and appropriate ombudsperson can point you in the right direction. Learn about the Policies and Procedures. If applicable, ask about the policy and procedure that addresses your concern. It will describe the parameters and if there

are any exceptions. Fully read and understand any contract that you sign. A contract at UM is the same as a contract with any other institution or business. You must fulfill your commitment. Document your interactions. Keep a record of who you spoke to, when you spoke to him/her, and the outcome. This is good practice for life. When speaking to students, we hear the general statement “they told me.” It is challenging to address the specifics of a scenario with the elusive “they.” Be Respectful. Yelling, screaming or cursing at a fellow student or administrator is not the most effective way to resolve a situation. Some situations will lead to frustration, but try to keep a cool demeanor. Individuals are more willing to listen and respond when they are engaged in a conversation where respect is exhibited.

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BRITTNEY BOMNIN // File Photo

CREATIVITY: Students taking part in CGIU spent the morning coloring with children in Homestead.

COURTESY CLINTON GLOBAL INITIATIVE BRITTNEY BOMNIN // File Photo

SPREADING TRADITIONS: Kalpen Modi helped a child paint his hands in University of Miami colors.

JOINING IN THE FUN: Soccer player Brittney Steinbruch, football players Jacory Harris, Orlando Franklin and Damien Berry and women’s basketball player Shenise Johnson throw up the U with President Bill Clinton.

Clinton Global Initiative University

MARLENA SKROBE // File Photo

INFO: Attendees participated in CGIU Exchange where they learned more about those present.

JESSICA HODDER // First Impression

PANEL: Ethan Zohn, co-founder of Grassroots Soccer and winner of Survivor: Africa, speaks.

JESSICA HODDER // File Photo

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Embracing Earth Day, UM’s environment Hug the Lake, get a free T-shirt and love the earth BY SAVANNA STIFF CONTRIBUTING NEWS WRITER

Random Acts of Kindness (RAK) has made a sincere effort over the past semester to provide assistance to the ravaged island of Haiti. But RAK’s most well-known event faces challenges at home. On a Thursday, RAK hosted Hug the Lake, where students hold hands around Lake Osceola to symbolically “hug” it. The annual event, which promotes environmental awareness and sustainability, is open to the entire UM community. This year, the slowed economy and the divergence of cash to aid disaster relief in Haiti conspired to dry up funds that might have gone to Hug the Lake. RAK, which has a “low, low, low, low, budget,” according to president Gustavo Lang, relies on funds from donors and UM organizations to raise the $3,000 necessary to purchase event T-shirts, which help publicize the event and increase student participation. Last year, the Butler Center for Service and Leadership (SLC) was able to swing most of the cost with help from Student Government, Hillel and Hurricane Productions. The year before, t-shirts were generously donated by President Donna E. Shalala. Lang and the rest of the RAK executive board were willing to settle for event buttons, until Lang encountered his friend Jordan Balke and stopped to chat. When Lang mentioned that RAK wasn’t going to be able to order shirts, Balke immediately offered to look into donating discretionary funds from her special interest housing group, C.A.S.T.L.E. (Canes Advocating a Substance Temperate Living Environment), and her employer, Kaplan, to cover the cost of ordering shirts. Two hours later, Lang was dancing in the breezeway, elated that this year’s

RACHEL STEINHAUSER // File Photo

WITH ARMS WIDE OPEN: Random Acts of Kindness (RAK) hosts the annual Hug the Lake event to take place during Earth Day. During Hug the Lake, students hold hands for a few minutes around Lake Osceola after receiving free t-shirts. event would still feature “Larry the Lake” T-shirts. Ultimately, money from C.A.S.T.L.E and ULive ULearn, Lang’s special interest f loor, totaled $1,500. “The most difficult task at RAK is fund-raising money for Hug The Lake every year,” RAK President emeritus Kemy Joseph said. Club funds awarded by SAFAC each year are based mostly on club size, and with little more than 15 steady members, RAK feels more like a family than a club. But that’s the way they like it. “We come together as a family because we believe we should have fun while doing good,” Lang said. “Everything you give us, we’re turning around and giving right back to you.” Savanna Stiff may be contacted at sstiff@ themiamihurricane.com.

GO TO THEMIAMIHURRICANE. COM FOR NEWS 24/7 SUMMER 2010

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Iron Arrow the highest achievement on campus Select few get tapped into honor society BY COLLEEN DOURNEY CONTRIBUTING NEWS WRITER

“Oh my God! What’s happening?” said recent alumnus Rory Lincoln, who was invited to become a member of the Iron Arrow Honor Society last semester. Lincoln was originally told he needed to be at the School of Communication to give a tour. Instead, he was surrounded by a group of people wearing the brightly colored Seminole jackets characteristic of Iron Arrow members. An arrow was then horizontally thrust at his chest, and he was “inked” with orange, white and green paint across his forehead. “It was probably one of the most intimidating things I’ve ever been through,” Lincoln said. “I didn’t realize that there was no student and no tour, and I kept asking to be let go because I thought I was being pranked. “No one answered because [we are] supposed to be silent, which I eventually caught on to.” Iron Arrow “tappings” occur once every semester and are carried out in manners often similar to Lincoln’s story. Any member of the UM community

can be tapped, from students and faculty, to alumni and administrators. It is the highest honor achievable at UM. Third-year law student Elena Doyle was tapped as an undergraduate and is the society’s former chief. Doyle sees membership in Iron Arrow as being part of a long-standing tradition of great leaders at UM. “To be an Iron Arrow member is to be recognized for having all five of the characteristics [we value- scholarship, leadership, humility, character and love of alma mater,” Doyle said. Society Chief Jodie Barkin, a medical student, acknowledges tradition as one of the most identifiable attributes of being an Iron Arrow member. “Being an Iron Arrow member has been a tradition of greatness at the university since it began in 1926,” Barkin said. This spring semester, 35 new Iron Arrow members were tapped. After joining Iron Arrow, members agree to establish an everlasting bond with the university that lives on long past their graduations, retirements or relocations. “Members of Iron Arrow participate in many acts of service to give back to the community, a tradition UM has long been known for,” Barkin said. Colleen Dourney may be contacted at cdourney@themiamihurricane.com.

COURTESY JC RIDLEY

FOLLOWING TRADITION: Already-inducted Iron Arrow members, wearing their Seminole jackets, walk across campus in 2007 in search of new tapees, 52

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SportsFest 2010

LOPO DE CASTRO // File Photo

LET THE GAMES BEGIN: The SportsFest torch was lit on campus during the opening ceremonies to signify the beginning of the campus-wide event for the 25th year.

CAYLA NIMMO // File Photo LOPO DE CASTRO // File Photo

OPENING CEREMONIES: Eaton Residential College’s Warriors in Pink march to the IM fields.

ROW, ROW, ROW YOUR BOAT: Freshmen Christine Heidbreder and Victoria Charvat of the MT 5 team paddle their canoe. SUMMER 2010

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Learning from the University of Miami’s leader President Shalala shares Peace Corps experience BY RAMON GALIANA SENIOR NEWS WRITER

In 1962, a Peace Corps volunteer began her two-year visit to southern Iran to teach English to locals in a small village. She wanted to volunteer in the Middle East, particularly because her family is Lebanese. Forty-six years later, she would share her experiences with about 20 students who were thinking about embarking on a similar journey with the Peace Corps. “We listened to their priorities and it became a very important life lesson,” said University of Miami President Donna E. Shalala. “The Peace Corps gives you the opportunity to be as creative as you can be.” The event invited past and current UM Peace Corps volunteers to discuss their experiences with prospective students. The forum, at Storer Auditorium, occurred just weeks after UM was named No. 15 in the country for producing Peace Corps volunteers from mediumsized colleges. “There’s something about Americans [and their ability to] organize. They know how

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to put a process together to get people organized and going,” Shalala said. “Almost everyone who went to the Peace Corps with me was young and just out of college. We learned how to listen to the local people.” During her speech, Shalala detailed her training prior to embarking for Iran. She and other volunteers were grouped with Iranian graduate students who helped them understand the culture in which they would be immersed. She spoke of a local mullah, a religiously educated Muslim man, who helped guide her efforts in the village during her visit. “He taught me to listen to the leadership wherever it was and to try understanding what people, even the poorest people, on earth thought were their priorities,” she said. After Shalala concluded her speech, Michelle Tsiknakis, a UM alumna who graduated last December with a degree in health sciences and Spanish, spoke about her upcoming trip to Guatemala. “Every experience is definitely to-eachtheir-own, everyone has a different experience,” Tsiknakis said. “I’m really excited for the opportunity, but I’m going to be doing a little bit of everything. I’m going to be going to my country, seeing what they need and hopefully be fulfilling

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COURTESY DONNA E. SHALALA

ALWAYS AN EDUCATOR: President Donna E. Shalala worked with the Peace Corps teaching English at Ahwaz Agricultural College in Molasani, Iran in 1964. that need.” Tsiknakis began serving as a health technician in Guatemala in April, bringing needed medical help to her those in need. “Hopefully I’ll be as successful as [Sha-

lala] was,” she said. Ramon Galiana may be contacted at rgaliana@ themiamihurricane.com.

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Health Center fights illness, offers resources Campus facility open seven days a week BY TAIMANIA MATTHEWS SPECIAL TO FIRST IMPRESSION

For most students, college is a transition to adulthood without the benefit of a nearby chaperone to lead the way. When the excitement of meeting new people and being in a new place wears away, it is not unusual for students to feel slightly overwhelmed, especially when illness or injury occurs. Fortunately, the staff of the Student Health Service goes out of their way to make students feel comfortable when receiving care at a new location. In addition to providing primary care services, the Health Center provides specialty care including women’s health and orthopedics, smoking cessation resources, x-ray and lab services, and advice on health related issues. The Health Service staff includes board certified physicians and nurse practitioners who are available to diagnose and treat minor injuries, provide care for many acute and chronic illnesses and offer appropriate referrals when required. Students with chronic medical conditions are encouraged to visit the Health Center to meet and get to know one of their primary care providers early in the school year. Prior to the start of the semester, all new students are required to provide proof of immunization against measles, mumps and rubella and must also provide proof of immunization against hepatitis B and meningococcal meningitis, or sign a waiver declining these immunizations. All international students must also be screened for risk of tuberculosis by completing page two of the Immunization Form. Nursing students are required to obtain additional immunizations and a tuberculosis screening as described on the Nursing Immunization Form available at www.miami.edu/studenthealth. The Student Health Service web portal, mystudenthealth.miami.edu, permits students to enter their immunization information and check for preliminary compliance. However, final immunization compliance will not occur until the Student Health Service staff receives immunization forms completed and signed by a health care provider. The mystudenthealth portal also allows students to make appointments on-line, access forms required for their visit prior to the appointment and print immunization records to submit to other institutions. Although health insurance is re-

KATIE SIKORA // First Impression

THE FLU FIGHTERS: Sebastian the Ibis receives his flu shot. President Donna E. Shalala stressed the importance of getting flu shots. Flu shots are free to students at the health center. This flu shot is for the regular yearly flu virus, not H1N1. quired for all students while attending the University, domestic students with alternative health insurance coverage may request cancellation of the annual fee by completing a waiver request via myUM under the “Life at UM” prior to the established deadlines. Students with limited out of area coverage or otherwise inadequate coverage are urged to carefully review their options before waiving the University’s sponsored insurance plan. Students are not required to have the University’s sponsored insurance plan in order to use the services of the Health Center. Effective Fall 2010, students enrolled in the University’s sponsored insurance plan are required to complete a Smoker Designation Form each academic year via myUM also found under the For most students, college is a transition to adulthood without the benefit of a nearby chaperone to lead the way. When the excitement of meeting new people and being in a new place wears away, it is not unusual for students to feel slightly overwhelmed, especially when illness or injury occurs. Fortunately, the staff of the Student Health Service goes out of its way to make students feel comfortable when receiving care at a new loca-

tion. Parents are usually pleased to learn that prescriptions can be filled on campus and that prices are often lower than at local drug stores. Most students prefer to drop off their prescriptions and come back after class to pick up their medication but others don’t mind the short wait. The Pharmacy is conveniently located on the second f loor of the Health Center, accepts many insurance plans and can fill most prescriptions written by out-of-town and off-campus providers. When prescription number is available, prescriptions refills are promptly handled by calling the automated refill line at (305) 284-5922 or via myUM under the “Life at UM” tab. Established deadlines, forms, mystudenthealth.miami.edu instructions, smoking cessation programs, emergency information including listing of Urgent Care Centers and additional information can be found at www.miami.edu/ student-health. The Student Health Service is located across from the Pavia Garage in front of the Lowe Art Museum and is open Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Fridays 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Thursdays 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Sundays from

Noon to 4 p.m. When the Health Center is closed, after-hours assistance is available by calling (305) 284-9100. The Health Center and Pharmacy staff is happy to assist students with any of their medical needs or address any immunization or insurance questions. Do not hesitate to send your inquiry to studenthealth@miami.edu. Taimania Matthews may be contacted at t.matthews1@umiami.edu.

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IF YOU GO WHERE: Across from Pavia Garage HOURS: M-F 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. Thurs 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. & Sundays 12-4 p.m. CONTACT: (305) 284-9100 Main www.miami.edu/studenthealth studenthealth@miami.edu mystudenthealth.miami.edu

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WE ARE THE CHAMPIONS, MY FRIENDS: Sisters of Delta Phi Epsilon celebrate their victory as Greek Week sorority champions for the second year in a row during the closing ceremonies on the University Center Rock. The men of Beta Theta Pi emerged as the victorious fraternity, also for the second consecutive year.

TRUE LIFE:

CHELSEA MATIASH // File Photo

GREEK GODDESS: Delta Gamma’s Tori Riley took the crown in the Greek Idol competition.

I’M GREEK CHELSEA MATIASH // File Photo

TALENTED TWOSOME : Senior Brandi Wyskocil (left) and junior Molly Piccione perform during Greek Idol competition representing Kappa Kappa Gamma.

COURTESY ALEJANDRO RENGIFO BRITTNEY BOMNIN // File Photo

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GRRR: Sophomore Bijan Heravi won the championship wrestling title for Beta Theta Pi during Olympic Day.

JESS HODDER // File Photo

BRAVE DONOR: Junior Ethan Alpern gave blood for points for Phi Delta Theta.

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Greek Week events unify the community Members’ efforts raise lots of funds BY COLLEEN DOURNEY CONTRIBUTING NEWS WRITER

Every spring, Greeks come together to host one of the university's most popular, and most charitable, weeks on campus. Greek Week is a series of events that unite members from all social Greek fraternities and sororities of the National Pan-Hellenic Council and the National Association of Latino Fraternal Organizations Council to raise funds for United Cerebral Palsy of South Florida. Greeks have raised a combined $400,000 over the past 15 years. Last year alone they raised over $20,000. Other recipients of the Greek Week endowment are the Community Blood Banks of South Florida, who has received over 1,000 pints of blood from the Greeks’ efforts. “Everyone’s spirit and enthusiasm helps to not only increase Greek visibility on campus, but also reconfirm our commitment to doing posi-

tive events to help others,” said recent graduate Dallas Short, a Phi Delta Theta brother and former co-chair of Greek Week. The theme this year was “Reality TV,” meaning each event had characteristics of recent popular reality television shows, but also incorporated current events. Featured events included “Extreme Makeover: Haiti Edition” and “Miami’s Best Dance Crew.” The theme of the week overall was “True Life: I’m Greek,” based on MTV’s show “True Life.” Greek Week is similar to Homecoming in that there are a series of events over the course of a week that bring everyone together, but recent graduate Devin Murphy, Kappa Kappa Gamma sister and former co-chair of the week, sees some differences. “I think this week offers a lot more of a chance for unity amongst all of the social Greek life on campus since all Greeks are involved,” she said. Homecoming, on the other hand, is an event that is more focused on networking with UM alumni and celebrating the annual Homecoming football game through displays of

school spirit. Each event at both Homecoming and Greek Week is a competition, with a big emphasis on participation. While there is always a first-place winner based on performance, a considerable number of points are given for participation. “It’s a great way for Greeks to not only compete, but through that competition, get to know each other and show our unity as a Greek community,” Short said. Greek Week also has its appeal to non-Greek students at UM. “I was just walking by the patio last year with some friends and saw some really tight dance moves, so I decided to stick around,” recent graduate Try Spano said. “Even though I’m not Greek, it was definitely entertaining to watch.” GREEK WEEK EVENTS: Blood Drive Greek God and Goddess Organized Cheer Greek Olympic Day Colleen Dourney may be contacted at cdourney@themiamihurricane.com.

CHELSEA MATIASH // Photo Editor

REPRESENT: Recent graduate Amy Levine performs during Organized Cheer for Zeta.

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Rhodes finalist passionate about studies Kartik Telukuntla humbled by honor BY MEGAN TERILLI SENIOR NEWS WRITER

Kartik Telukuntla, a recent alumnus who majored in biology and political science at the University of Miami, was named one of 216 finalists in 2009 for the prestigious Rhodes Scholarship to study at Oxford University in England. Each year more than 1,500 students embark upon the rigorous Rhodes application process by first requesting the endorsement of their universities to compete for the scholarship. According to Kefryn Reese, the assistant director of international education and exchange programs, four UM students applied this past year for the UM endorsement through the Office of Academic Enhancement. Telukuntla and one other student, Derek Freitas, received endorsements. Telukuntla was the only UM student that advanced to

become a finalist. The Rhodes scholarships are the oldest international fellowships in existence today. The list of past recipients boasts 1,800 notable names, including former President Bill Clinton and famous astronomer Edwin Hubble. Two students from each of the 16 U.S. districts receive the scholarship, which includes full funding to attend Oxford for two-to-three years and pursue either a Master’s degree or a Doctorate in a subject of their choice. Any student from any school or college in the university may apply. Although he did not win the scholarship, Telukuntla is still very proud of his accomplishments. “I am so honored,” he said. “I really felt privileged and truly blessed. I didn’t expect to make it that far. To say it was humbling would be an understatement. It just inspired me to work that much harder.” Telukuntla was the chief justice of the Student Government Association, the President of the Honor Council and a member of the

President’s 100, the president’s ambassadors to the university. He has plans to attend UM’s Miller School of Medicine and hopes to work in health policy while tending to patients. The selection process for the Rhodes scholarship is especially difficult, requiring a lot of preparation for interviews and even five letters of recommendation, according to Reese. “I worked with him very closely,” she said. “But a lot of credit goes to his professors who worked with him throughout the entire process.” Telukuntla prepped for two weeks before going to Birmingham, Ala., last fall for the final interviews. “I got to meet some of the most talented and accomplished students out there,” Telukuntla said. “You just realize they’re ordinary people working extraordinarily hard. My advice to anyone would be to just find your passion and act on it.” Megan Terilli may be contacted at mterilli@themiamihurricane.com.

RAMON GALIANA // File Photo

EXTRAORDINARY: Kartik Telukuntla was one of 805 finalists for the Rhodes Scholarship and the only one from Miami.

Entrepreneur creates various applications Student made software for iPhones and BlackBerrys BY RAMON GALIANA SENIOR NEWS WRITER

As smartphones become more popular among college-aged students, the differences among them widen. One student entrepre-

TYLER MCINTYRE

neur, however, thought of a program to reconcile messaging differences between popular cell phones. “I’ve been going through BlackBerry and

iPhones for a very long time,” rising sophomore Tyler McIntyre said. “I found that one of the major problems between switching over from BlackBerry to iPhone is the inability to communicate with each other through a platform like BlackBerry Messenger (BBM).” Arguably the most popular application on BlackBerry devices, BBM allows users to limitlessly message each other without being charged a text message fee. Though similar to other popular messengers such as America Online Instant Messenger (AIM) and Yahoo Messenger, BBM was specifically created for BlackBerry users. McIntyre’s LuciD Messenger (LM) allows users of iPhones, BlackBerrys and Android-based phones to communicate with each other through a similar messenger-style application. It was also developed to address many of the grievances critics had about previous messaging programs. For example, when a user is invited by another to become a contact, the software will automatically update both users’ contact list. According to McIntyre, small details will distinguish his program from others currently on the market. Users will be able to search for friends using either their LM username, their actual name, phone number or e-mail address. “We tried making it as easy as possible to

find your friends on the messenger,” McIntyre said. Although LM has already been approved for use by the BlackBerry and Android application stores, the iPhone’s App Store has yet to accept the application. McIntyre, however, is confident that they will approve LM. “What I created was like a network in itself that you can download from your applications store,” he said. “Everyone can download it and can send messages back and forth. You can have chat conversations with multiple people, send pictures between each other and even send smiley-faces.” McIntyre’s LM is now fully operational, and will be released when approved by Apple. “We followed all the regulations and the standards they require, so we’re just waiting to get approved with them,” he said. After first creating a prototype of the messenger application, McIntyre approached the Toppel Career Center’s LaunchPad entrepreneurship office with the idea. “He was one of the more advanced freshmen that we’ve taken through our program,” said Lucas Sommer, a program manager at the LaunchPad. “His plan was well thoughtout and in place. I was very impressed by Tyler even the first time we met.” The LaunchPad was able to help McIntyre with marketing strategies, such as promot-

ing the application through social media Web sites like Facebook. He now hopes to promote his messenger to businesses with cell phone plans for employees. Now, instead of providing only BlackBerrys because of their compatibility with BBM, companies would be able to provide a wider variety of smartphones and still use a free messenger program. He is commonly asked by the business and technology media whether he believes his messenger may replace other popular smartphone messengers like BBM. “I don’t really think that might happen anytime soon just because BBM is automatically installed on every single BlackBerry device,” he said. “However, I hope to incorporate all smartphones into this messaging system so that it becomes the leader in messaging.” When his idea was first presented to his peers, McIntyre was met with a variety of responses; from awe, to bitter skepticism. “The most common response that I get from people checking out my program on Web sites is ‘Wow, I can’t believe no one’s ever thought of this,’” he said. “But still, a lot of people said it couldn’t be done.” Users can sign up for more information by visiting www.lucidmessenger.com. Ramon Galiana may be contacted at rgaliana@ themiamihurricane.com.

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Healthy options available to students at food court Affordable menu items gaining steam BY SARAH HARTNIG CONTRIBUTING NEWS WRITER

MATT WALLACH // File Photo

BUSY: A line forms at Mango and Manny’s Marketplace, the food court’s hot spot.

Watching your waistline? Try the new Well ‘Canes bundled meals for only $4.95 at some of your favorite on-campus dining locales. Dining Services has partnered with the Patti and Allan Herbert Wellness Center to provide on-campus diners with affordable value meals with a twist. Instead of your server asking, “Would you like fries with that?” each meal comes with an apple and a 20-ounce bottle of water. “We have to be more aggressive,” Wellness Center Director Norman C. Parsons said. “We have to start taking care of ourselves.” According to Vice President of Auxiliary Services Mel Tenen, every day of the week, dining facilities like Niko’s, Market Square, Mango and Manny’s and Oasis host a different Well ‘Canes bundled meal. The dining halls are not participat-

ing in the bundled meals initiative. The program began in February 2010 with buffalo chicken flatbread from Niko’s. Other items on the menu included Mediterranean chopped salad from Market Square, California salad with grilled chicken from Mango and Manny’s and an egg and arugula salad sandwich from Oasis. Each main item has less than 352 calories and less than 12 grams of fat. According to the nutrition information on its Web site, a chicken club sandwich from Wendy’s has 620 calories and 29 grams of fat. And that’s without the sugary soda and greasy fries. Panda Express’ Web site says that an order of orange chicken and lo mein has 800 calories and 34 grams of fat. Despite the colorful signs advertising the Well ‘Canes bundled meals throughout the food court, students don’t seem to be that enthusiastic about the meals offered at Niko’s, where a toasted salad and a soda usually costs about $8.97. The open-faced vegetable sandwich didn’t have many takers. “I’m not a vegetable kind of girl,” rising senior Lara Ryan said. “I got the gyro.”

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But according to Oasis employee Alonza Bryant, students have been lining up to take advantage of the healthy bundled meals. At Oasis, a signature sandwich with a bag of chips and a soda costs $11.33, more than double the price of a Well ‘Canes bundled meal. “We sold out of what we made,” Byrant said. “I would rate it pretty good.” This isn’t the first healthy on-campus dining change of the year. The university added two new healthy snack vending machines and two new fruit vending machines to campus this past year in popular locations like the Ashe building, the law school and the University Center. It can be difficult for students to maintain healthy lifestyles. The most convenient foods are not always the healthiest options. “As a college student, it's expensive to go out. The typical meal at the dining halls is about $10,” rising sophomore Steven Blikstein said. “This $4.95 plan encourages students to eat better while being lighter on the wallet.” Sarah Hartnig may be contacted at shartnig@themiamihurricane.com.

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Lessons in going beyond the book Students apply early research as undergrads BY RAMON GALIANA SENIOR NEWS WRITER

Academics are more than just cracking open books and regurgitating ideas on a midterm. Funded by a donation from alumna Jill Viner, the College of Arts and Sciences is sponsoring the Beyond the Book scholarship for undergraduate students in the college to execute independent research proposals. “The scope of proposals is limited only by the imagination of the students,” said Jacqueline Dixon, interim dean of the College of Arts and Sciences. Students who wish to apply for the project must submit a document detailing an initial project idea, along with a preliminary budget for the $2,500 they would receive if awarded the scholarship. With her scholarship, recent alumna Kristina Astone traveled to Costa Rica to conduct research in anthropology.

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Her project included the excavation of 11 skeletons on an island off the mainland. “It was fun to experiment and just take in the culture,” she said. “I’ve never been camping before, so it was a huge experience for me living in a tent with no running water.” Another student, recent alumnus Derek Freitas, who also received the scholarship, worked with Professor Nita Lewis to improve molecular wires, or microscopic threads, that can be used to connect the components of miniscule computers or nano-sized medical devices that may, in the future, be used to fight diseases. “Because I was given a stipend, research was all I did over the summer. All of my time, 40 hours a week, was devoted to just research,” Freitas said. “It was a lot of hands-on experience, finding out what research was about. Just working in the lab a lot of time.” Candidates for the scholarship dedicate themselves completely to creating a research project organized and pertinent enough to merit a scholarship. To download an application for the Beyond the Book scholarship and view

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COURTESY IVETTE YEE

HE BLINDED ME WITH SCIENCE: Derek Freitas, a 2009 Beyond the Book winner, used his award to improve molecular wires that help in fighting diseases. previous student proposals, please visit w w w.a s.m i a m i .e du /u nd e r g r a du a t e/ beyondthebook.

Ramon Galiana may be contacted at rgaliana@themiamihurricane.com.

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Alpha Lambda Delta honors freshmen First-year students eligible for society BY ALEXANDRA LEON NEWS EDITOR

So you’ve been recognized on the Dean’s List or the President and Provost’s Honor Rolls for your academic achievement. What comes next? Students in their first year at the University of Miami have the opportunity of being initiated into the Alpha Lambda Delta (ALD) honor society. After receiving a 3.5 or higher GPA, and being in the top-20 percent of their class, students will be invited to join the prestigious honor society during the spring after their first semester. “It’s an honor to be a part of ALD because this society has a long tradition of recognizing students from the entire nation for their academic accomplishments,” said former ALD vice president Miguel San Pedro, a rising junior majoring in accounting. However, ALD also gives members

the opportunity to not just be recognized as exemplary students, but also demonstrate their initiative and leadership skills while interacting and socializing with students from all academic majors in a variety of service events that begin as soon as they are initiated. “I really enjoyed the Beach Cleanup that I participated in shortly after being initiated,” San Pedro said. “I spent an entire day having a good time with ALD members while also giving back to the environment and making Miami’s beaches better for its residents.” Last year’s events included cardwriting parties for patients at Miami Children’s Hospital and soldiers stationed in Afghanistan, as well as participation in the university’s Gandhi Day of Service and a cereal giveaway in the Hecht and Stanford dorms during finals. “ALD provides a great opportunity for ‘excellence at its best.’ Students can develop leadership skills,” ALD moderator Dayle Wilson said. “I also believe that it is a good way to become a part

of the UM community without overwhelming the members.” Aside from various opportunities to be involved in service at UM and around the Miami community, members have the opportunity to apply for study abroad scholarships, book awards, graduate fellowships and the Trow Scholarship, which offers 10 finalists $3,000 and 25 semi-finalists $1,000. Seniors will also receive honor cords from ALD to wear at their graduations. ALD was founded in 1924 as an all-female honor society at the University of Illinois. It is now a co-ed honor society present in over 250 institutions across the country, and has been a part of UM for over 20 years. Students may participate in national conventions and service activities to meet members from other ALD chapters, or submit articles to be included in the society’s magazine, The Flame, which is distributed at each initiation. “My favorite aspect has been watching the transition from first year to senior year. I usually keep in touch

with the executive board members during their time at UM,” Wilson said. “I enjoy the experience of being a part of the change. Everyone can make a difference and ALD is a great place to start… You may even find a life-long friend.” While it takes a lot of dedication and hard work to achieve the necessary academic standing to join ALD, a student’s most important job is to participate and be focused, according to San Pedro. “The best advice I could give to an incoming student would be to find a good balance between academics, extracurricular activities and personal time,” he said. “Employers and graduate schools are looking for well-rounded college graduates that have demonstrated success in those three areas.” For more information, visit www. nationalald.org or pass by the Dean of Students Office in Building 21-H behind Pavia Garage. Alexandra Leon may be contacted at aleon@themiamihurricane.com.

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FACT FORUM unique psychology program All declared majors may participate BY DR. VICTORIA NORIEGA SPECIAL TO FIRST IMPRESSION

All declared Psychology and Neuroscience majors are invited to take the Psychology Department’s comprehensive orientation, advising and mentoring program, FACT FORUM. This unique program, now in its 12th consecutive year, is designed to help first-year students acclimate to the University, understand policies and procedures, and explore opportunities that will help make the most of their college experience. Approximately 150 new students meet each week in one of the eight different sections of FACT (Freshman Advising Contact Term). The weekly hour-long sessions, led by Dr. Victoria Noriega, Director of Undergraduate Studies in Psychology, will give you a chance to get to know some of your fellow freshmen and to develop an alliance with the advising staff. As we

DR. VICTORIA NORIEGA

discuss topics such as academia, the liberal arts, research and various issues of the day, you are encouraged to use critical thinking in making both shortand long-term plans for your education and future careers. During the spring semester, you will get to choose a mentor for your FORUM (Faculty Overview of Research and Undergraduate Mentoring) section. This part of the program is designed to give you a broad introduction to classic and contemporary research in psychology and neuroscience. Nine faculty members who conduct

research will lead groups of about 16 in weekly, one-hour classes to discuss psychology and neuroscience research in general at UM, and to take a specific look at the mentor’s research efforts. The program has proven to be beneficial to both students and mentors, often resulting in future collaborations with faculty members. Over the years, FACT FORUM has been successful in helping over 1,150 students get their academic feet on the ground, become educated about opportunities and develop curriculum plans to ensure a timely graduation with double majors and minors, research, study abroad and honors theses. If you have any interest in Psychology or Neuroscience, it is a good idea to declare now and get into FACT for the fall 2010 semester. This way, you will get a head start on what you need before you graduate. If you decide you do not like these majors, we will help you decide on which other major might be appropriate for you and will help you change as soon as you are ready. One result of the FACT FORUM program is that our students know how

to get involved in research. Psychology students do more research than in any other major and also go on to complete Senior Honors Theses, which is the culmination of work they have done with a mentor. Make no mistake, the Senior Honors Thesis is a lot of work, but it is also very satisfying and makes what might otherwise be characterized as a good education, a great education. Planning for the Senior Honors thesis takes place in FACT FORUM. If you are a serious student who wants to make the most of your time here at UM, you will want to be in FACT FORUM. For more information contact Victoria Noriega, Ph.D. (Director of Undergraduate Studies in Psychology) or Sean Kilpatrick, M.S., Associate Director of Advising in Undergraduate Academic Services for Psychology at 305 284-3303. You can also check out our web-pages at www.psy. miami.edu/undergraduate. Dr. Victoria Noriega may be contacted at vnoriega@miami.edu.

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Insight

Life on and off campus at University of Miami EDITED BY CHRISTINA DE NICOLA // cdenicola@themiamihurricane.com ALEXANDRA LEON // aleon@themiamihurricane,com DESIGNED BY ALLISON GOODMAN // agoodman@themiamihurricane.com

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BRITTNEY BOMNIN // File Photo

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BEST OF MIAMI 2010 A

Z PIZ

BEST SALON/SPA

California PIZZA Kitchen

NIKITA Paris

BY DANIELLE PELOQUIN CONTRIBUTING INSIGHT WRITER

BY DANIELLE KASLOW SENIOR INSIGHT WRITER

California Pizza Kitchen serves up hearth-baked gourmet pizzas in a trendy atmosphere. With toppings like Jamaican jerk chicken, pear and gorgonzola and carne asada, there is something everyone will love. And if you’re not in the mood for pizza, CPK has a full menu of appetizers, pastas, soups, sandwiches, smoothies and unique salads to choose from. You can even call in your order for takeout or have it delivered right to your dorm.

Upon entering Nikita Paris, a receptionist sweeps past you to take your jacket and offer you a beverage. Many of the stylists on staff are originally from France, adding a unique European flair to the salon. It is not uncommon to hear French, Spanish and English spoken simultaneously during your visit. Using their Parisian flair to coordinate with your personal vision, stylists create an effortlessly elegant hairstyle upon every visit. Whether you simply want a trim or entire style makeover, you can’t go wrong with Nikita Paris.

BEST PLACE TO FIND A HOT DATE Otto G. Richter Library

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BEST KEPT SECRET Bougainvillea’s BY DANIELLE PELOQUIN CONTRIBUTING INSIGHT WRITER

Bougainvillea’s is a cozy, laid-back bar located in the heart of South Miami and it is known for its live music and friendly crowd. Come in Tuesday through Saturday night to hear a variety of live bands with styles ranging from rock to jazz, and from reggae to R&B. There are drink specials every night of the week, but never a cover charge. Ladies drink free on Wednesdays, and Fridays feature live classic rock.

BEST PLACE FOR A FIRST DATE Villagio Ristorante

BY NICOLE ADLMAN CONTRIBUTING INSIGHT WRITER

Villagio consistently serves great tasting food, intimate service and a beautiful setting, whether seated inside or outdoors. You should definitely try the lasagna once (creamy, well-portioned and deliciousness), any cut of veal and either the quattro formaggi (four cheese) or margherita pizza. For dessert, the apple pie will leave your taste buds rejoicing: its thinly-sliced apples, ample cinnamon and an airy puff-pastry crust will end any night on a high note.

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CAYLA NIMMO // File Photo

BY REBECCA FALCON CONTRIBUTING INSIGHT WRITER

Next time you consider going out to find a date, don’t forget about “Club Richter.” The Otto G. Richter Library is filled with students at all hours of the day who could use a study break and, with so many dark corners, who wouldn’t want

to cuddle up to someone in the stacks? Next time you see someone go from writing their essay to writing on someone’s Facebook wall, invite them for a coffee at the conveniently located Starbucks next door and see if sparks fly.

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BEST ASIAN Stir MOON/MOON

AU NATURALE

BY CLAUDIA AGUIRRE CONTRIBUTING INSIGHT WRITER

BY DANIELLE KASLOW SENIOR INSIGHT WRITER

If you’ve never tried Thai or Japanese food, Moon is the perfect place to begin your love affair with Asian cuisine. Moon and Stir Moon are both walking distance from the UM campus on U.S. 1, and conveniently stay open until 11 p.m. most days. The restaurants offer a wide variety of food from their two separate menus of Thai and Japanese, sure to please everyone in your dinner party.

What’s the point of visiting a tanning salon when you live in Miami? Students can be found laying out daily on the IM fields, soaking up the sun at the UC pool and tanning between classes. Despite having to study for finals and writing term papers, students pressed for time at “Sunshine U” still know how to achieve the perfect bronze...the all natural way.

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BEST AFTERHOURS SPOT Flanigan’s Seafood Bar and Grill BY JEREMY ROSENTHAL CONTRIBUTING INSIGHT WRITER

BEST DESSERT WHIP ‘n DIP BY DANIELLE PELOQUIN CONTRIBUTING INSIGHT WRITER

to be made of wood salvaged from Noah’s Ark) and its high quality food. The ribs here are standouts from a menu filled with delicious sandwiches, pastas and seafood dishes. When you go, in the wee hours of the night or otherwise, be sure to keep your cup- next visit refills are $1.39 and unlimited.

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Whip ‘n Dip may be located a few blocks away from the hustle and bustle of downtown South Miami, but it is well worth the walk. The shop is famous for its homemade ice cream and light soft serve. Its whips and dips come in all the typical flavors, as well as mouth-watering monthly specials like brownie batter and cherry pie. Whip ‘n Dip also serves an array of other sweet temptations like chocolate-dipped frozen bananas, homemade cookies and custom cakes. With all the tasty treats to choose from, you’ll be coming back for more.

Twenty-one Flanigan’s Seafood Bar and Grill locations dot the South Florida coast. Among these, the Flanigan’s in Coconut Grove is elite: it’s open until 5 a.m., making it a popular destination for University of Miami insomniacs. Students love its rustic, seafaring charm (and by rustic, it looks

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Keeping campus cool and stylish BY NINA MARKOWITZ CONTRIBUTING INSIGHT WRITER

Sean Goldfaden always wanted to start his own business, but he just couldn’t find the right idea. First, it was “Fedora Stora,” an online fedora boutique offering a massive selection. It was the perfect idea, except that sizing became too complicated. Looking around for his next big idea, Goldfaden found it right before his eyes. That is when Wayfarer World was born. “I love the sunglasses because they are bright and fun,” Goldfaden said. “I wanted to offer unlimited color combinations so everyone could get the exact pair they want.” The concept is simple: a madeto-order, instant creation of low-cost, customizable Wayfarer-style sunglasses. Goldfaden, a rising senior advertising and psychology major and a brother of Sigma Alpha Mu fraternity, began to formulate his concept last summer, as well as looking for ways he could incorporate online marketing. “I’ve been really involved with social media and internet marketing for a while and I decided I could take what I know about social media and apply it to my business,” Goldfaden said. He was still in the first stages of forming Wayfarer World in November 2009 when he heard about the Elevator Pitch Competition hosted by UM’s Launch Pad and OfficeMax. With a $25,000 grand prize and judging criteria that included enthusiasm and charisma, it was an opportunity Goldfaden couldn’t pass up. He entered and won. “I was enthusiastic and energetic,” Goldfaden said. “The success of this business is getting people excited about their colors and making their own sunglasses.” With the funding he needed, Goldfaden’s Wayfarer World took off. First, he ordered wayfarer style frames and earpieces of all different types and colors, which Goldfaden individually assembles and pairs. Next, he established a Facebook fan page that 1,675 members have joined. Finally, he made a commitment to his mother’s breast cancer foundation through philanthropy. “My mom is an eight-year survivor of breast cancer so I’ve always wanted to find a way I could donate

Free movies at Cosford BY BROOKE BURGSTAHLER CONTRIBUTING INSIGHT WRITER

COURTESY NINA MARKOWITZ

I WEAR MY SUNGLASSES AT NIGHT: Wayfarer vendor Sean Goldfaden sells custom wayfarer shades in the University Center breezeway. back,” Goldfaden said. “All proceeds from the sales of pink sunglasses go to The Karen Schweibish Breast Cancer Foundation.” Wayfarer World had its official launch mid-April in the UC Breezeway, with Goldfaden and his girlfriend, recent graduate Emily Dash, manning a table covered in colorful sunglass combinations. Brothers from Sigma Alpha Mu also stepped in to help Goldfaden assemble custom pairs and collect money from eager student customers. Each pair costs $10. “Business is going incredible,” Goldfaden said. “In one week, we sold over 350 sunglasses.” After a successful launch, Goldfaden has returned to collecting orders via the Wayfarer World Facebook Fan page. “I’m trying to expand the business to other campuses,” he said. “It wasn’t until after the campus launch, when I watched over 300 people buy

sunglasses and how excited they were, that I realized this is a really big thing on campus right now and I’m glad I got started early.” One student who purchased wayfarer-style sunglasses thought his item was great. “I think they’re awesome to be honest, what a fantastic idea,” rising senior Camron Ghorbi said. “I think they’re the only cool vendors I’ve seen in the breezeway in my entire three years here.” With the support of his friends, girlfriend, fraternity and UM students, Goldfaden will continue to expand Wayfarer World and future entrepreneurial ventures. “They’re really excited that I started my own business and it’s going well,” Goldfaden said. “Now they just want me to finish school and graduate on time.” Nina Markowitz may be contacted at nmarkowitz@themiamihurricane.com

A movie at the Shops at Sunset Place will run you $10, and on the weekends, parking is a flat rate of $6. For two hours of entertainment, why pay such high prices? The Cinematic Arts Commission (CAC) brings free movies to campus every Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday. And it’s just a walk from the dorms. Part of the Hurricane Productions organization, the CAC is made up of a group of students who simply like to watch movies. Members like movies so much that they have chosen to dedicate their time to bringing free showings to campus at the Bill Cosford Cinema, which is located in the Memorial Building. In addition to the weekly showings, CAC hosts special events, providing University of Miami students with unique experiences. For instance, Vice Chair Joey Kadin’s favorite event is “The Rocky Horror Picture Show” screening. “We’ve done it for two years now and completely filled the entire Cosford and even had to turn people away when we had two nights-worth of shows,” Kadin said. “Rocky is a cult classic...we partner with another HP group, QuantUM Entertainment, to have a full shadow cast acting out the movie in front of the screen. Everyone shows up in costume, and we hand out prop bags to all the audience members.” This past semester’s final event was a special double feature of “American Beauty” and “American Psycho.” “CAC likes to do double features or short festivals on occasion, of relating or contrasting films,” rising senior Derek Stuckert said. “So since we were showing ‘American Psycho,’ we thought it might be fun to show another American movie along with it.” If you’re looking for something to do, looking to save some money or just looking for a good time, check out the Cosford Cinema. “There is no reason not to take advantage of what we bring to campus. Everyone likes movies, they are free and CAC makes the experience cheeky and fun,” Stuckert said. “What more can you ask for?” Brooke Burgstahler may be contacted at bburgstahler@ themiamihurricane.com.

CINEMATIC ARTS COMMISSION (CAC) FOLLOW for updates on screenings, sneaks and more! TWITTER.COM/CAC_MIAMI. MEETINGS are Wednesdays @ 6:30 pm in UC 211. SHOWINGS are Wednesday at 8 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. at the Cosford Cinema. ENCORE showings are Saturday @ 10 p.m. & Sunday at 8 p.m.

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Homecoming 2009 Rock

Like a Hurricane

BRITTNEY BOMNIN // File Photo

Members of the Federation of Cuban Students (FEC) cheer for their team during Alma Mater finals on the Rock on a Thursday. FEC won the Most Spirited Organization award.

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Hecht residents freshman Gina Satriale, sophomore Paige Martins, junior Romy Portuondo and freshman Nick Moore perform for the judges during Alma Mater Finals on a Thursday at the Rock.

LEFT TWO: TANYA THOMPSON // File Photo RIGHT: CAYLA NIMMO // File Photo

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Enjoy food and games at the Rat BY BROOKE BURGSTAHLER CONTRIBUTING INSIGHT WRITER

Looking for the best place to watch University of Miami football games? It might be a lot closer than you think. It might also be your favorite place to grab a bite to eat between classes. The Rathskeller, UM’s hot spot and campus landmark, has been hosting UM tailgates or watch parties for several away football games and basketball games. According to tailgate chair Ali Levenson, the Rathskeller Advisory Board (RAB), which operates under Hurricane Productions, hosts these tailgates completely free of charge. “There’s always plenty of free food and we often play games that involve winning a ton of free giveaways,” Levenson said. Rising junior Kristen Chuber, who has attended the events in the past, said the tailgates are the next best thing to watching the real game. “When you think about a game you think of fried food and guys yelling, and the Rat delivers the full experience,” Chuber said. According to Rat employee Christine Ira, the crowd at the Rat during the tailgates is usually only Hurricane fans. “When you come here, it’s all green and

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orange, and the energy is so much more heightened,” Ira said. Tailgate regulars have described the events as watching a game with 300 of your closest friends. “For Miami games, it’s awesome to be with a bunch of people your own age,” said recent graduate Zach Burkowski, who is a regular. Spirit and adoration for the Hurricanes is one thing that brings students to the Rat for tailgates, but the setup isn’t too bad either. “You don’t ever get to watch a game on a 200-inch pull-down screen unless it’s at the Rat,” Burkowski said. Brooke Burgstahler may be contacted at bburgstahler@themiamihurricane.com.

TOP MENU ITEMS Walker's Chicken Fingers Nia's BUFF-alo Wings The Bergman RAB’s Fish and Chips Milkshake of the Month

BRITTNEY BOMNIN // File Photo

TROPICAL LAKESIDE VIEW: Students and guests alike eat lunch at the Rathskeller’s signature swinging tables near Lake Osceola on campus.

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Farmers’ Market offers raw vegan delights nature that can solely be found at this venue. “There’s nothing really quite like this anywhere,” said manager Stan Glaser, his Seated on a picnic table bordering narrow frame attesting to his 35 years as a Grand Avenue, Jude Diaz takes a bite of the raw vegan. He is also the owner of Glaser ice cream he purchased a few feet away. His Organic Farms, which provides most of the eyes widen and light products featured. up. The market “You need to try IF YOU GO is spread out along this- it’s made out of Grand Avenue. Colnuts,” he tells his wife orful displays of recWHAT: Coconut Grove Rachel, shoving the ognizable produce Farmers’ Market cup in her face. “No occupy most of the dairy!” space alongside foods “No dairy?” she WHEN: 10:00 a.m.-7:00 that are not as recogasks. p.m. every Saturday nizable: red flax seed No dairy. Like crackers, raw hump many other food prodWHERE: 3300 Grand seed nut butter, chickucts sold at the CocoAvenue, Coconut Grove pea carrot croquettes nut Grove Farmers and more. Market, it’s also raw The market also vegan and organic. features 50 different Foods considered ‘raw vegan’ have no trace kinds of juices, a salad bar and a deli, in addiof animal origin and have not been cooked at tion to spreads, pies and salad dressings- all more than 118 degrees Fahrenheit. raw vegan and all organic. Each Saturday, about 1,000 people atRecent graduate Melanie D’Andrea tend the farmers market, which USA Today made an impromptu visit to the market on named as one of the best in the nation. The her way back to campus two miles away. She market sells organic produce, raw vegan conwent raw vegan for two weeks. coctions, and other rare food products of this “[The market] opens your mind to what BY FARAH DOSANI CONTRIBUTING INSIGHT WRITER

food is and how you can prepare it differently,” D’Andrea said. “For the people who... are at S’barros 24/7, it’s a good way to get healthy food.” “When you eat a lot of processed food, they become robbed of nutrients. Raw food is nutrient dense,” said Tracy Fleming, the raw food chef at Glaser Organic Farms. She is the creator of many of the prepared raw vegan products sold at the farmers’ market. Under one of the tents, local yoga and martial arts instructor Kiro Ace eats a slice of raw vegan strawberry shortcake and washes it down with coconut water. “I’ve become addicted to the feeling of [being] healthy,” he said. But, the feeling comes with a price. Sixteen ounces of organic vegan ice cream is listed at about $16, almost three times the cost of a regular pint of ice cream in any typical grocery store. Although only a small percentage of the individuals who visit the market are actually raw vegan, Manju Goradia and other customers agree that the food is worth the occasional splurge. “I would rather eat here than the best restaurant in town,” Goradia said. Farah Dosani may be contacted at fdosani@ themiamihurricane.com.

FARAH DOSANI // File Photo

FUN FOR THE TASTE BUDS: A guest puts toppings on her vegan ice cream.

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For University of Miami students, by UM students BY BROOKE BURGSTAHLER CONTRIBUTING INSIGHT WRITER

CAYLA NIMMO // File Photo

A WHOLE NEW WORLD: Anna Clausen rehearses her solo for QuantUM’s musical.

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This past semester, QuantUM Entertainment, a student-run theater group, brought three new plays to the University of Miami free of charge. The organization, part of Hurricane Productions, puts on several plays and musicals throughout the year, and students are in charge of every aspect of each show. “All positions- designers, crew, actors, directors and producers- are students,” said Joanna Lamb, vice chair of QuantUM. “Students who participate in QuantUM can come from any major, and there are no prerequisites for participation.” Technical director Katie Sikora is the perfect example. “I was a theater nerd in middle school and high school and didn’t have that outlet when I got to college as a marine affairs and visual journalism double major,” Sikora said. “So my second semester of freshman year, one of my friends put me on the listserv for QuantUM, and I ended up as co-producer of the last two productions of the spring semester.” “Songs for a New World” went off without a hitch during the month of February at the School of Communication Courtyard. “Fat Men in Skirts” took the stage in mid-April and “Ben” to conclude the semester. In the musical “Songs for a New World,” which features works written by composer Jason Robert Brown, a variety of unique characters are linked by one common theme. Lamb felt very passionate about the showing of this musical at UM. “I think this show is especially relevant for college students because it addresses the pivotal moments in life when one decision

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can change everything,” Lamb said. “Everyone who comes to the show may take a different message away from it, but I know that everyone will enjoy the beautiful music and phenomenal acting of our great cast.” Lamb also said that this was a show that most UM students had never seen before, and was excited to bring something new to UM. “Since those working on the show are entirely students, the shows themselves are always fresh and innovative because it is your fellow students with the vision,” QuantUM treasurer Kathleen Molinaro said. Best of all, shows are free for UM students, faculty and staff. “Our shows are free because our funding comes from the student activity fees that every student pays,” Lamb said. “If you come to a QuantUM event, you’re getting use out of your own student activity fee!” Brooke Burgstahler may be contacted at bburgstahler@ themiamihurricane.com.

CAYLA NIMMO // The Miami Hurricane

HUG: A performer sings a part.

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Running for Miss USA, BY NICOLE ADLMAN CONTRIBUTING INSIGHT WRITER

On a balmy Saturday afternoon in Miami Beach, a fairytale was being rewritten. The Cinderella in question was not in glass slippers, but in black patent leather Yves Saint Laurent platforms, and the men wielding pins at her feet were far from mice; they are famous dressmakers from Venezuela, flown in specifically for the day’s fitting. There was no wicked stepmother, just her real mother, sitting on a couch with pride brimming in her eyes as her daughter walked around the room in a makeshift gown. For this Cinderella, dreams do not end at m i d night.

a Cinderella story

Meet recent graduate Mackenzie Green. As a broadcast journalism and sports administration double major, she hopes to one day be a broadcaster for ESPN. And she also ran for Miss USA 2010, with the Miss DC crown in her possession. “I really do love all sports,” she said, doing away with any misconception that this pageant hopeful is all about primping. She has played sports all her life, and was a competitive swimmer and horseback rider throughout high school. Along with her academic goals and new pageantry dreams, Green was thoroughly involved on campus. She was the station manager for UMTV, a member of UM Ambassadors, a reporter for SportsDesk and was involved in USport. It’s a balancing act that she’s been perfecting for years, and so far, it has not overwhelmed her. “If I’m involved with it, I’m going to do the best job I can for it,” she said. She even rushed and became a member of the Kappa Kappa Gamma sorority. “I picked a school where I didn’t know anyone,” she said with a laugh. “What crazier idea than to join a sorority?” Green likes to surprise people, and she did just that by running a marathon and becoming Miss DC without missing a beat at school. “No one expected it,” she said, “I had what you call a 1/8 life crisis. I ran a marathon. Everyone wanted to know what would be the next thing I did. The next thing we know, I’m Miss DC and headed to Vegas.” You would think she was a seasoned veteran. “Nope,” she said, “I [had] never done a pageant. Never walked in heels for more than [a couple] hours. Never did my hair or makeup.” It seems that Green is all about mo-

mentum, especially when building toward a goal she has her sight set on. “It was something I wanted to do,” she said. “I see. I want. I get.” If there is fear of failure in Green, she does not show it often. Her confidence is almost a physical attribute; you see it in her posture and hear it in her voice. “I had this dream for the longest time and made it happen,” she said. “People try and sometimes fall short. This will be the second time I’ve ever [been in a pageant] and I’m just going to go out there as myself.” She hopes that when other girls see that this is her first try at pageantry, they might feel encouraged to try new things as well. “I used to watch a pageant and want to be that girl,” she said. “I hope some 5-year-old girl can look at me and think ‘I can do this too.’” Coach Grace Fontecha has been in the business for years, with back-to-back Miss Universe titles under her belt. “I’ve never trained two women the same,” Fontecha said. “But I do always perfect the look from the inside to the outside. After you have gained self-esteem and showed your personality, we can work on the walk and appearance.” Not only has Green made a change in her own life course, but she hopes to prove that some dreams may not be too farfetched to attain. She compares herself to the Disney Channel character “Hannah Montana” (though, make no mistake, she’s always been more of a “Lizzie McGuire” fan)- someone who can have the best of both worlds: a college education and a chance for the crown. “By the time I graduate, you will know who I am,” she said. Nicole Adlman may be contacted at nadlman@ themiamihurricane.com

DANIELLE KASLOW // File Photo

COURTESY MACKENZIE GREEN

MISS DC: From Kappa Kappa Gamma to the desk at UMTV’s NewsVision, Mackenzie Green keeps herself busy with on-campus activities and pageants. SUMMER 2010

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Student media at the University of Miami

1. Student volunteers produce, film, edit and star in programs ENTERTAINMENT: “Off the Wire”: Sketch comedy program filmed before a live studio audience “U-Tunes”: UM’s own “American Idol” “The Slate”: Movie news and reviews

NEWS: “Newsvision”: Bi-weekly newscast “UniMiami”: Spanish language news and entertainment show

SPORTS: “Sportsdesk”: A weekly show featuring both national and campus sports

MORE INFORMATION:

A remarkable loss, a healthy gain BY PATRICK TODD CONTRIBUTING NEWS WRITER

With the stresses of college life, gaining weight might be one of the easiest tasks. Struggling to lose and keep off the weight can prove burdensome and arduous. But sophomore Michael Acosta managed to lose a remarkable 90 pounds in six months. “I had been overweight my entire life,” said Acosta, a psychology and theater major. Last May, he decided to make a change. “I don’t want to say I was unhappy with my life, I just knew I wasn’t at the potential that I wanted to be and I knew my weight was something I could control.” Acosta decided change his eating habits and alter his lifestyle. “One day I just got up and said I wasn’t happy with myself and that I was going to change it,” he said. “And that’s what I did.” Acosta joined a local Weight Watchers group close to his home in Kendall and began a daily exercise routine. “I was able to eat whatever I wanted to eat, just in moderation,” he said. He also began an exercise routine of mostly cardio work. Acosta said he went to the Wellness Center and ran three miles or hopped on the elliptical machine. Toward the end of last year, he hired a personal trainer at the

OPINION speak

UP!

STAFF EDITORIAL

I’M STUCK IN A

ENRIQUE NUNEZ Junior “To fly!”

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The Miami

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creasingly difficult to lose weight. In the absence of alcohol, the liver metabolizes fat, but when alcohol is around it chooses to breakdown alcohol first, resulting in a build-up of fatty acids. Additionally important is the negative effect alcohol has on sleep. A poor night’s rest leads to insufficient amounts of sleep, which in return leads to weight gain. Gabriela Halder is a graduate student at the Miller School of Medicine and a peer educator for Pier 21 and the Sandler Center for Alcohol and Other Drug Education. She may be contacted at ghalder@ themiamihurricane.com.

February 25 - February 28, 2010

MATT ROSEN //

BRADLEY KENIN Senior “The ability to teleport .” Speak Up answers are clarity, brevity and edited for accuracy. compiled by

Kyli Singh

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POLL RESULTS: What do you think of Valenti I’m a free b*tch, ne’s Day? All the single baby! Mmmm... There’s too much ladies chocolate red and pink!

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February 15 - Februa ry 17, 2010

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5.HURRICANE UM’s student-run newspaper since 1929

404.

EDITOR IN CHIEF Chelsea Matiash

BUSINESS MANAGER Jessica Jurick

MANAGING EDITOR Christina De Nicola

WEBMASTER Brian Schlansk y

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COPY CHIEF Laura Edwins

NEWS EDITOR Ramon Galiana PHOTO EDITOR Brittney Bomnin SPORTS EDITOR Justin Antweil EDGE EDITOR Danielle Kaslow OPINION EDITOR Ed S. Fishman ONLINE aav EDITOR Megan Terilli ASST. NEWS EDITORS Lila Albizu Nina Ruggiero ASST. SPORTS EDITOR Calvin Cestari

COPY EDITORS Amanda Gomez Alexa Lopez Kyli Singh ADVERTISING EDITOR Emma Cason-Pr att PUBLIC RELATION Jacob Crows S ADMINISTRATOR ASSISTANT Maria Jamed ACCOUNT REPS Shoshana Gottesman Misha Mayeur Katie Norwood Brian Schuman Jack Whaley GRADUATE ASSISTANT Nick Maslow

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The golf team won the Edwin Watts/ Kiawah Island Classic in South Carolina. Read about this and more in Calvin Cestari’s sports briefs. Subscribe for the e-mail edition of the newspaper at www. themiamihurricane. com/subscribe.

Was created in 2007 from what was originally a class project Aims to draw students out of the everyday monotony of classes and schoolwork, and get them more engaged with the campus community, hence the name, “Distraction” Explores campus lifestyle from athlete profiles and stories on UM history and traditions to Miami’s hottest restaurants and studentinspired fashion Distraction is a Four Star/Mark of Distinction All-American Associated Collegiate Press winner and a Gold Medalist from the Columbia Scholastic Press Association Student volunteer organization for those interested in writing, editing, photography and design. To get involved with Distraction, students should send an e-mail to h.carney1@umiami.edu or attend one of the information sessions held at the beginning of the semester. “Distraction gives students a chance to better learn about one another, to understand and explore the quirky and stimulating Miami environment,” Carney said. “Plus, it’s an entertaining magazine, easy to throw in a bag and read at the pool, beach or in between classes. It gives students a break from nauseating textbooks.”

For advertising rates call 305-284-4401 or fax 305-284-4

Explore news editor Ramon Galiana’s blog, Cloture, for his take on the healthcare situation.

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percentage of ethanol in an alcoholic beverage – a drink that is 40 percent ethanol is 80 proof). If you are having trouble Now, lets consider the number of calories meeting your weight-loss mixers add. Per each 8-ounce serving, orange goals, you might want to conjuice contains 111 calories, soda about 100, and sider revisiting the number ginger ale or tonic around 80. These numbers of calories you are ingesting indicate that each mixed drink amounts to with each alcoholic drink. about 150-200 calories, which is about as much First, consider the amount ofBRITTAN caloriesEYal-BARTOW as a chocolate chip cookie at Subway! cohol contributes to each drink. One ounce of n Freshma Think beer is any better? Think again. 12 “To lightning out of hard liquor that is 80 proof (such asshoot gin, vodka, of regular beer is 150 calories, while the mycalories fingertipsounces .” rum, whiskey or scotch) amounts to 64 same serving size of light beer is 105 calories. per ounce. If the hard liquor is 100 proof, then Alcohol also affects your body’s northe calories are bumped up to 80 per same servmal fat-burning mechanism, making it ining size (proof is defined as twice the volume

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An Associated Collegia Hall of Fame Newspa te Press per NEWSROOM: 305-284-2 016 BUSINESS OFFICE: 305-284-4401 FAX: 305-284-4404

Check out Lindsay Brown and Alex Broadwell’s photo slideshow of men’s basketball’s 74-62 victory over the this attention. Virginia Cavaliers There can be some solace at the BankUnited taken in the career-e Center. nding track

If you could have Stock up on laundry deter- and tanning, super power, what any gent and stay out especially the Situawould of the tanning tion and Pauly D, booths, because the it be? they are creating cast of “JerseyJESSICA HODDER // The Miami Hurricane a buzz over unworth Shore” is coming y subjects. to out South SWEATING IT OUT: Sophomore Michael Acosta works onBeach the at the Wellness Center. He has for their Think about second season. all the people other reality stars lost 90 pounds since last May and has maintained current weight since December. that are not Before going his getting the have to South Beach they deserve. Locally attention Remember Tila Tequila? taken. to try to be Snooki’s She at the Uni- off Antonella Stelluto match made versity the face of the planet fell in heaven of Miami ness Center. It is equipped with Wellness Center to help plan his work, Acosta dropped from 260 or to there has the scoop about try to see the Situis groundafter her second season ation’s situation research being diet and nutrition experts to evaluworkout. He said he exercised just pounds to 170., however Although this breaking “A Shot at free coffofeehouse done , please by Love,”awhere professor consider she tried to that do eating why these people about every day in his six-month drastic transformation is uncomate and sdevelop not getguidelines for residents ofchoose Eaton nearly between are fa- as mous. muchtoattention a selection of males or individuals. effort to lose weight. mon, the methodology used was specific the Apartment as Ronnie femalesand did when he got in to win her heart. The Some appeal might a fight onregularAcosta still exercises “When I met Michael at the effective. of the ask, Area. showwas the is boardwa These the huge lk. shows GUILLER This personal are not comis abetter MO SALINAS itytoo and- haspletely Spring Involvement Fair on Feb. Acosta’s weight loss much too ly and says he feels misplace of the charment of values in our acters, void of cultural society. value. Terilli more confidence and self-esteem.They Megan 4, wasSenior very intrigued,” said soon? like the Situation’s ego and “ToIspeed give us somethi ng extreme objectific The up time so I has a responto talk captured footage of women. walk around school andabout, and “It’s a lot ofation weight but the sibility.“I audience Patty Swift, assistant director of wouldn ’t have It leaves They need to step let us marvel at to sleep the audience asking of Wednesday the through wellnessall and people don’t recognize back me,” he is that he did it right,” said and themmyrecreation, classes.” “He lost key selves put the y of some people’s if these people are show into context. absurditaft lives. ernoon’s election for real, of Before said. crowds Musto, associate director weight the right way- no fad diets, Tony At the very least, and doubting these head out to see everythin shows in the UC are they say. in Snooki and gwellness, just common-sense eating and fitness entertainresults ing, and can pass make club appeara Asprograms celebrity magazin nces, at Lower Lounge.time. es shoot rememb to The Miami Hurricane. Patricker Todd may be contacted exercise. I’m convinced there are an oute-mail new articles that in the larger Just keep them in perspect ive. addressingmany Watch the video for these of ptodd@themiamihurricane.com. Forrs’other students, young men and women out there characte tendencies, and their scheme of life she is relativity thoughts on the runEditorials represent the methods Acosta used can be unimportant. There who can identify with Michael.” love of the gym, doing are much of The off. the majority view After six months of diligent found here on campus atlaundry the Well- bigger problems Miami Hurricane editorial that deserve staff.

BY GABRIELA HALDER CONTRIBUTING COLUMNIST

NEWS

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Reality bites

Does this drink make me look fat?

“

Before crowds head out to see Snooki make club appear ances, remember in the larger scheme that of life she is relativity unimportant.

Crown award from the Columbia Scholastic Press Association for the 2009 Ibis and a nomination as a Pacemaker finalist from the Associated Collegiate Press To get involved, e-mail IbisEditor@gmail.com or stop by University Center, Room 229 “I love that a group of passionate students can come together to create a 512-page book from essentially nothing,” editor-in-chief Rachel DeHayes said. “And I love holding the final product, watching students point to themselves among the pages, and thinking to myself, ‘Yes, I did that!’”

Student magazine

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Check out what’s exclusively available at TheMiamiHurricane. com.

Sophomore sheds 90 pounds in six months

Pier 21

MASTHEADS courtesy of UMTV, WVUM, Distraction, Ibis and The Miami Hurricane.

“Try it all… Learn what your specific niche is,” WVUM DJ D’Andrea said. “We have a real world platform to experiment and express our voice to show the world what the future of thought and creativity is.”

Sections: Lifestyles, Academics, Sports, Greeks, Organizations, People Writers, photographers, designers and editors are paid for their work Yearbooks are free and are given away in the fall on the Rock Professional photographers come onto campus to take portraits of underclassmen, seniors and graduate students Awards won include a Gold

“We the Students”: Online, interactive debate show

Alexandra Leon may be contacted at aleon@themiamihurricane.com.

“Best FM Station in y the Miami New Times in Miami” by 2006 and 2007, 20 and “People’s Choice for Best FM Station in Miami” in 2009 Tune in at 90.5 FM or listen online at wvum.org.

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Has won awards such as best college sports program for “SportsDesk” and best comedy program for “Off the Wire” from the National Broadcast Society. "NewsVision" was also recently nominated for a 2009 Suncoast Regional Emmy Broadcast on Comcast channel 96 in Coral Gables and streamed live on umtv. miami.edu There is a general meeting at the beginning of each semester where students can watch a presentation from each program and sign up to work with individual programs “It’s great to work with the people you like day in, day out, because they are people who share the same values and the same enthusiasm about what you’re putting on the air,” said Alejandro Fonseca, executive producer for "Newsvision" and the "Slate."

2. WVUM 3.

Specialty music shows range from disco, to punk, to 60’s music, to hard core, and even movie soundtrack and scores Hourly newscasts and news shows Sports talk shows and live broadcasts from games ly student-run and Completely volunteer lable in underwriting Positions available (com me r c i a l sales), promotion, music, sports, news, ngineering production and engineering Have sponsored red events like Ultra Music Festival, open mic nights and biweekly university center patio concerts Giveaways often include tickets to concerts and local events, even cars The station has received awards for

FINANCIAL ADVISER Robert DuBord FACULTY ADVISER Bob Radziewicz

of Miami

The Miami Hurricane regular academic is published semi-weekly during the year and is edited by undergradua and produced te students at the University of Miami. The publication does views and opinions not necessarily represent the of advertisers or trustees, faculty the university’s or administratio n. Unsigned editorials represent the opinion of The Hurricane’s Commentaries, Editorial Board. letters and cartoons the views of their represent only respective authors. and business offi ce of The Hurricane The newsroom Norman A. Whitten are located in the University Center, Room 221. LETTER POLICY The Miami Hurricane encourages all their opinions on readers to voice issues related to the university or response to any in report published in The Hurricane. Letters to the editor may be submitted handwritten (please typed or the Whitten Universitymake your handwriting legible) to Center, Room 221, P.O. Box 248132, or mailed to Coral Gables, FL, 33124-6922. Letters, with a suggested length of 300 words, and include a copy must be signed of your student number and year ID card, phone in school.

ADVERTISING POLICY The Miami Hurricane’s business office is Stanford Drive, located at 1306 Norman A. Whitten University Center, Room 221B, Coral Gables, FL 33124-6922. Hurricane is published The Miami during the university’s on Mondays and Thursdays fall and spring academic Newspapers are terms. distributed free of charge on the Gables campus, Coral the off-campus locations.School of Medicine and at several DEADLINES All ads must be received, cash with copy, in The Hurricane business Miami office, Whitten University Center, Room 221B, by noon Tuesday for Thursday’s issue by noon Friday and for the Monday issue. SUBSCRIPTIONS The Miami Hurricane is available for rate of $50 per subscription at year. the AFFILIATIONS The Miami Hurricane is a member of Collegiate Press, the Columbia Scholastic Associated Florida College Press Assoc. and Press Assoc.

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SECTIONS: News Sports EDGE, for arts and culture Opinion Dear V, where students can get advice from the sassy “V” Comes out bi-weekly and can be found in orange and red newsstands around campus

Student employees can write, edit, design, shoot photography and video, or sell advertisements Check it out at www. themiamihurricane.com and pass by University Center, Room 221 for applications “There’s nothing more interesting than deadline night with your friends,” editor-in-chief Christina De Nicola said. “Where else do you get the chance to write articles, take photos, shoot videos and design pages?”

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Tasty treats found across the street at My Yogurt Bliss BY KELLY BURNS CONTRIBUTING INSIGHT WRITER

If you’re looking for a light frozen treat after a long day of classes but are unwilling to pack on the pounds, opt for a healthier choice at self-serve frozen yogurt store, My Yogurt Bliss. Conveniently located across from UM on U.S. 1, My Yogurt Bliss treats guests to a buffet-style yogurt bar in which the flavors change daily and the toppings never cease to entice. When you walk into the store, grab a 16-ounce container that you can fill with frozen yogurt, mixing and matching flavors and choosing any toppings you wish. The cost is determined by the weight of the container, priced at 48 cents an ounce. My Yogurt Bliss offers an extensive number of selections in comparison to other local choices, like Yogen Früz and Yogurbella, and presents the opportunity to prepare your own dessert. It offers 10 different flavors, ranging from conventional choices such as vanilla or strawberry, to daring flavors such as cake batter or red velvet. Topping selections are just as diverse with over 40 choices, including brownie and cheesecake pieces, cereal, candy, sprinkles, peanuts and hot fudge. Or one can enjoy a healthier treat, topping the dish with fresh fruit. My Yogurt Bliss, which opened last semester, is already a staple in many students’ routines. “I go to My Yogurt Bliss at least once a week, although sometimes more,” rising senior Danielle Watkins

said. “My favorite flavor is the original and I top mine with cheesecake, strawberries and blueberries.” The seating is limited, but this doesn’t pose a problem as many yogurt-goers purchase and leave. Around 7 p.m. each day, however, the line for yogurt stretches to the back door; it’s the busiest time of the night. If you’re ready to experience the bliss, the shop is open from 11 a.m. until 11 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and until 12 a.m. on Friday and Saturday. Whether you prefer your yogurt sweet or tart, low in calories or loaded with sugar, My Yogurt Bliss has something for everyone. Kelly Burns may be contacted at kburns@themiamihurricane.com.

MY YOGURT BLISS

WHERE: 1554 South Dixie Highway (on U.S. 1 across from UM, between Subway and the AT&T store) HOURS OF OPERATION: Sun.- Thurs.: 11 a.m.- 11 p.m.; Fri. and Sat.: 11 a.m.12 a.m. COST: 48 cents an ounce

BRITTNEY BOMNIN // File Photo

A DIFFERENT SERVE: Lane Carico of the volleyball team takes time out of her schedule to serve herself some My Yogurt Bliss.

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Wynwood: Miami's art hotspot 'RENT' takes Ring Theatre by storm BY DAVID SARGENT CONTRIBUTING INSIGHT WRITER

JESSICA HODDER // First Impression

URBAN ART: Wynwood, a neighborhood just north of Downtown Miami, is an escape for artists who can’t afford the high prices of Coconut Grove and other similar areas. BY NINA RUGGIERO CONTRIBUTING INSIGHT WRITER

Abandoned lots and barbed wire adorn autorepair shops leading up to Robert LeClerc’s store in Wynwood, a neighborhood just north of Downtown Miami. Down the street, a family sells fruit out of its truck, parked across from a dilapidated building that calls itself a doctor’s office. “In about four years, this will be the hottest spot in town,” LeClerc said. “This is going to be the new South Beach.” LeClerc, the owner of Living in Art, an eclectic home décor boutique filled with manmade waterfalls, Buddha statues and colorful lanterns, is so confident in Wynwood because little by little, a rising new community has been transforming the rough neighborhood into a trendy art district. “Historically, art galleries move to areas in distress to find cheap rent,” said Francisco De La Torre, a UM graduate and gallery owner. “The area improves, rents get higher and the galleries that made the area hip in the first place can’t afford it anymore.” De La Torre recently moved his gallery from Coconut Grove to Wynwood to escape high prices. Though he sees this phenomenon in Wynwood’s distant future, he is not as optimistic. “It’s going to take a long time for that to happen here,” he said. “This is the forgotten part of town the city is finally trying to revitalize.” Wynwood holds on to its working-class image, but the city’s efforts are notable. The predominantly Puerto Rican neighborhood is home to the Fashion District and is a part of the Design District, an area filled with art and furniture galleries, antique dealers, boutiques, restaurants and bars. Regardless of form, art is everywhere and

some local artists believe this marks a shift in the personality of Miami as a whole. “Miami is moving forward from a superficial city to a deeper one,” said Facundo Poj, furniture artist and co-owner of Poj gallery. “It is becoming mature enough for a real art district.” Nearby hotels are now recommending a stroll through the art-filled streets of Wynwood to their guests, making it an "off-the-beaten-path" spot on tourist maps. Sonia Shahdadpuri, a college student from New York, experienced the area while staying at a downtown hotel with her family in January. “Wynwood was a cultural side of Miami I didn’t expect,” Shahdadpuri said. “There was no glitz or glamour to it, but that’s part of what made it so refreshing.” Wynwood hosts an art walk on the second Saturday of every month from 7 to 10 p.m. when art lovers and socialites can browse the exhibits, chat with the artists and enjoy drinks and music. “This is a great opportunity for the public to be exposed free of charge to world-class artists of all types within walking distance,” said R.E. Sanchez, the founder of Life is Art, an organization for networking within the art world. The neighborhood is also one of the main sites of Art Basel, an annual contemporary art exhibition featuring street fairs, showcases, movie screenings and other cultural events. “I believe that as Wynwood continues to grow, we will see a serious shift in regards to Miami as a world-class arts destination,” Sanchez said. “Maybe someday it will rival places such as Chelsea and SoHo in New York City.” Nina Ruggiero may be contacted at nruggiero@ themiamihurricane.com.

“RENT,” the record-breaking rock opera, was the epic finale to the University of Miami’s Department of Theatre Arts’ high-energy season. The Tony Award-winning musical, which was written by Jonathan Larson and based off of Giacomo Puccini’s legendary opera, “La Bohéme,” first premiered in 1996. It is about a group of young struggling artists during the 1980s on the Lower East Side of New York City. With its powerful contemporary rock score, the musical addresses issues such as poverty, drug-abuse, bisexuality and AIDS. Students and faculty have been developing, designing and rehearsing to adapt “RENT” to the Jerry Herman Ring Theatre’s unique circular stage. “With the Broadway production, there was often too much activity on stage to follow the story,” said Christine Kellogg, co-director and choreographer. In rewriting much of the choreography, her and co-director, Bruce Miller, chose to focus on the plot. “Doing it in the round theater has actually helped to tell the story… perhaps better,” Kellogg said. These fresh transformations suited the long standing Broadway hit’s live-for-the-moment “No Day But Today” anthem.

“It’s about living for the here and now,” said Matt Mickenberg, a recent graduate of the musical theatre program who played Mark Cohen, the story’s narrator. “Forget about regretting things and just do it.” This attitude, combined with the emphatic energy of the cast, made this unique UM performance one of most fun productions he has been a part of, according to Mickenberg. Considering the style of music and the themes explored, the theatre department chose "RENT" to appeal to a broader college-aged audience. “This is much more topical for this generation,” Kellogg said. “Many of our actors already knew the words and the score.” The Broadway production ran for 12 years, making it the eighth-longest running show in history. Kellogg, a former choreographer and professor from the University of California at Los Angeles who came to UM last year, was excited about the performance at UM. “There are some extremely talented students here, and the tech team’s pretty spectacular,” she said. “There was a good vibe with everyone.” Mickenberg put it more simply: “It just rocked.” David Sargent may be contacted at dsargent@themiamihurricane.com.

BRITTNEY BOMNIN // First Impression

LA VIE BOHEME: The student cast of “Rent” at the Jerry Herman Ring Theatre perform a song from the Tony-award winning musical. SUMMER 2010

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The ‘Lowe’ down: vast collection inspires generations BY MORGAN MILLER CONTRIBUTING INSIGHT WRITER

Miami is a city rich with culture, but University of Miami students do not need to look any further than the Lowe Art Museum on campus for a variety of artistic and educational offerings. Located at the main entrance on Stanford Drive, the Lowe Art Museum contains pieces from all over the world. According to its Web site, the strength of the museum’s 16,000-object collection lies in its Renaissance, Baroque, American, Ancient, Native American and Asian art. Entrance into the Lowe is free to University of Miami students. Regular admission costs $10 for visitors and $5 for seniors and non-UM students. “We have quite a few student tours. [It’s] not just UM students, also elementary, middle school and high school students,” Curatorial Assistant Gita Shonek said. Students often utilize the on-campus museum, whether to supplement a class or just for extracurricular interest. “The Lowe definitely changed my opinion on art museums,” rising senior Christina Crocco said. “I had to go for my English class and I was surprised to see that there were pieces I could relate to.” Rising senior Casey Vest said the Mexican exhibit was not only enjoyable for the artistic

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pieces, but also for the opportunity to sample Mexican cuisine. “The traveling exhibits they bring in are very impressive and bring a lot of vibrancy to the museum and to the campus,” Vest said. While the Lowe is beneficial to members of the UM community, it also plays a role in the Miami area. “The Lowe was the first museum in MiamiDade County,” Membership Coordinator Yina Balarezo said. “It is very old, so it has very strong member support. It has a big name.” During Miami Museum Month, patrons’ memberships at the Lowe allow them free access to any participating Miami museum. Lowe membership costs $30 for full-time students and educators at the University of Miami. “This is a way to enrich yourself,” Shonek said. “It gives you something different to do.” The Lowe’s new public hours are from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m Tuesday through Saturday and 12 to 4 p.m. on Sunday. The museum is closed on Mondays. “For students, networking is really important,” Shonek said. “It’s the only way to get your foot in the door, especially if you are doing something with art.” Morgan Miller may be contacted at mmiller@ themiamihurricane.com.

SUMMER 2010

BRITTNEY BOMNIN // File Photo

SIT STILL: This life-size sculpture of a Miami Dolphin football player by Duane Hanson in 1981 is housed at the Lowe Art Museum.

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Advice from Paris for students studying abroad BY CLAUDIA CURIEL CONTRIBUTING INSIGHT WRITER

Rising senior Claudia Curiel, who studied abroad in Paris through the Inter-university Mission for Coordination of Franco-American Exchanges, offers her advice for others looking to study abroad in the future. 1) Research the programs available to you and ask others’ opinions before you decide. I was told there was only one program available in Paris, but I found out later you could do a few others that are not always mentioned or encouraged. I would never take back this opportunity, but I would do it differently. My program is completely laissez-faire, there are no living arrangements and you must find housing on your own. It was truly a mission since you are going to classes at the same time and most places in Paris are tiny, old, dirty and overpriced. I also had to choose my own university and classes; I thought it was very unorganized and unstructured. 2) Have living arrangements sorted out prior to the beginning of your program. I was given a dorm for

10 days and by the end of that I had to find a place to live. I did not know anyone and luckily found my roommate through an acquaintance. Everything ends up working out; don’t stress. 3) Do not overpack. During your time abroad you will accumulate so much that going back will be even more difficult than getting there. My parents came with me to help me during the apartment search so I was unfortunately able to bring an excessive amount of clothes in my luggage as well as theirs. This turned out to be a very negative thing. 4) Do take advantage of traveling. Especially if you study in Europe, everything is so close and there are discounts just for being under 25 or a student. Unlike Miami, where you drive for seven hours and remain in Florida, you can get to another country in just two hours and stay there for the weekend. 5) Do not worry about meeting people. I had a small freak-out right before embarking on my study abroad trip. I knew no one and had no idea who I would live with or hang out with. Despite my worry, I could never have made a better decision in my life.

In the past three months I have met so many amazing people, including two princes, and friends from all over the world. 7) Recognize that we are spoiled in the United States in terms of space and convenience. Everything is much smaller in Europe, and in France there is a protocol for everything. Tasks that are extremely simple back home can be a mission while abroad. Back home you can fix almost anything through the phone or online, whereas in Europe you need to show up in person to get almost anything accomplished. 8) Enjoy your time abroad. You don’t know when you’ll have the opportunity to live in another country again without worrying about major responsibilities. Go see and do everything that is available in your city including going to museums, parks and monuments. Go out, have fun, meet people, establish relationships and travel! Claudia Curiel may be contacted at ccuriel@themiamihurricane.com.

COURTESY CLAUDIA CURIEL

PARISIAN POINTERS: UM rising senior Claudia Curiel studied abroad in Paris this spring and offers tips for survival.

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Sports

The players and teams at University of Miami EDITED BY CHRISTINA DE NICOLA // cdenicola@themiamihurricane.com DESIGNED BY FELIPE LOBON // flobon@themiamihurricane.com DESIGNED BY DEMI RAFULS // drafuls@themiamihurricane.com STEVEN STUTS // File Photo

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FOOTBALL

Another tough schedule lies ahead for Canes Miami begins with three of four on road BY LELAN LEDOUX SENIOR SPORTS WRITER

Once again the University of Miami football team is back in the national spotlight. It also had the opportunity to return as a perennial powerhouse this past year. No team in the nation had a harder four-game schedule to start the season than the Hurricanes as they faced top-25 teams. Many predicted the Canes wouldn’t survive the harsh schedule. Few expected a 3-1 record, but that’s exactly what Miami did. With a thrilling win over Oklahoma on Oct. 3 at Sun Life Stadium, the Hurricanes beat a top-10 team for the first time since November 2005 and climbed as high as No. 8 in the polls. Conference losses against Virginia Tech, Clemson and North Carolina placed Miami third in the Atlantic Coast Conference’s Coastal Division behind the Hokies and ACC Champion Georgia Tech. Looking for their first 10-win season since 2003-04, the Hurricanes (9-5, 5-3 ACC) lost 20-14 to Wisconsin in the Champs Sports Bowl. “Last year was last year,” head coach Randy Shannon said. “We started off strong and how we wanted to play. We won some key games, but we lost some games. “Things like injuries happen in the season. You see Jacory [Harris] get nicked up. You see a lot of the defensive players nicked up. Now is time to take the next step since everyone will be returning.” Players are still holding a grudge on how the season unfolded last year with some difficult losses. “Last year didn’t end the way we wanted it to,” said rising senior defensive lineman Allen Bailey, who recorded seven sacks last year and is projected to be a top NFL prospect in the 2011 draft. “We lost too many games. We just have to work hard throughout every game next season to make up for that.” In his first full season as a starter and under the tutelage of offensive coordinator Mark Whipple, rising junior quarterback Jacory Harris compiled 3,352 yards with 24 touchdowns. He completed nearly 60 percent of his passes.

Harris’s only knock was forcing the ball, which translated into 17 interceptions. Harris was a semifinalist for the Davey O’Brien Quarterback Award, given to the nation’s top passer, and was the first Hurricane quarterback since 2002 (Ken Dorsey) to throw for 3,000 yards in a season. The offense is getting ready to take its game to another level in the upcoming year. “We’re more prepared,” said rising junior wide receiver LaRon Byrd, who was second on the team with 33 catches and 460 receiving yards. “Last year it was a new offensive coordinator and we adjusted. Now we have a year of experience under our belt. Look out for us, we are on the raise again.” As Shannon’s first recruiting class becomes seniors and his top-ranked recruiting class enters as upperclassmen, expectations will be set high for the Canes. In May, Shannon signed a new fouryear contract extension. “I think we can be everything we were expected to be last year but even better,” rising junior defensive end Marcus Robinson said. “We want to better as whole.” Miami will face another brutal schedule this season as the Canes travel to Ohio State for the first meeting since the 2002 National Championship game. That year the Buckeyes won on a controversial pass-interference call that cost the Hurricanes back-to-back titles. The following week Miami visits Big East foe Pittsburgh. In consecutive games UM will try to avenge last year’s loss against the Clemson Tigers and will look to defeat rival Florida State without legendary coach Bobby Bowden. To end the season, the orange and green faces the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets, Virginia Tech Hokies and South Florida Bulls. UM looks forward to the challenging competition in the fall once again. “We’re definitely ready for the next step,” rising junior All-American cornerback Brandon Harris said. “We have seen the schedule and we know we got to take it to another level. Hard work is going to get us there.” Lelan LeDoux may be contacted at lledoux@ themiamihurricane.com

ALEX BROADWELL // File Photo

HEISMAN HOPEFUL?: Rising junior quarterback Jacory Harris looks to connect with one of his many playmakers on offense during a game last season.

DRAFTED Name

Pos.

Team

Selection

Epps, Dedrick

Chargers

Round 7, Pick 28

Fox, Jason

Lions

Round 4, Pick 30

Graham, Jimmy

Saints

Round 3, Pick 31

Sharpton, Darryl

Texans

Round 4, Pick 4

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FOOTBALL

No longer ‘Berry’-ed in the depth chart Running back finds playing time BY JUSTIN ANTWEIL SENIOR SPORTS WRITER

It was time for then-junior running back Damien Berry to get some meaningful carries. Berry, the 5’11,” 217-pound bruising back, had proven he needs to get a legitimate shot to play against top-rate opponents. Berry was a highly regarded safety coming out of Glades Central. His sophomore year, he moved to running back where he saw the majority of his time helping Canes prepare for opponents on the scout team. He was named 2008 Scout Team Offensive Player of the Year. Berry had his breakout performance in the spring game where he rushed for 114 yards on just 14 carries. He was named Spring Game MVP. He patiently waited during last season’s first four games as the Canes played four top-25 teams. Against Florida A&M, Berry made the most of his opportunity. He marched all over the Rattlers, accumulating 162 yards on 14 carries. Let’s not forget Berry has a football pedigree too, as he is the son of Kenny Perry, a defensive back who played for the University of Miami from 19871989. After his stellar performance, the humble Berry credited the offensive line. Although the unit did a fantastic job, Berry made some electrifying runs as he eluded numerous tackles. “Damien has done a good job all year,” said Tommie Robinson, the running backs coach. “He capitalized on his opportunity. If you are a football player, you are a football player. “He is a good kid. And let me tell you, FAMU was one of the toughest teams we’ve played thus far. They have some athletes and what you see on paper is not always how it plays out on the field.” To close out the season,

BILLY GILBERT // First Impression

DASHING INTO THE END ZONE: Rising senior running back Damien Berry scores a two-yard touchdown early in the fourth quarter against the Duke Blue Devils in a 34-16 victory on Nov. 21. Berry finished the season with 628 yards rushing and eight touchdowns. Berry continued to see more playing time and finished with 628 yards rushing, which was second on the team behind starter Graig Cooper. Berry scored a team-high eight touchdowns and averaged 6.6 yards per carry, also tops on the team. A dominant run game pushes the linebackers and safeties up and opens up the pass game. If Berry can implement himself in offensive coordinator Mark Whipple’s dynamic offense, the sky will be the limit. Justin Antweil may be contacted at jantweil@themiaimhurricane.com.

Date Sept. 2 Sept. 11 Sept. 23 Oct. 2 Oct. 9 Oct. 16 Oct. 23 Oct. 30 Nov. 6 Nov. 13 Nov. 20 Nov. 27

MIAMI HURRICANE 2010 FOOTBALL SCHEDULE Opponent Stadium vs. Florida A&M Sun Life Stadium at Ohio State Ohio Stadium (“The Horseshoe”) at Pittsburgh Heinz Field at Clemson Memorial Stadium vs. Florida State Sun Life Stadium at Duke Wallace Wade Stadium vs. North Carolina Sun Life Stadium at Virginia Scott Stadium vs. Maryland Sun Life Stadium at Georgia Tech Bobby Dodd Stadium vs. Virginia Tech Sun Life Stadium vs. USF Sun Life Stadium SUMMER 2010

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VOLLEYBALL

Volleyball team scores spot in NCAA Tournament Roller coaster year ends on high note BY ADAM BERGER STAFF SPORTS WRITER

ALEX BROADWELL // File Photo

BUMP IT: Rising junior Lane Carico recorded 22 kills and 23 points during the Hurricane Invitational in August.

When the University of Miami volleyball team made it to the NCAA tournament last year, it came as a bit of a surprise to the players, coaches and fans alike. The Hurricanes had an up-anddown season with times when the team looked untouchable, and times when it lost close heartbreaking games. On more than one occasion, the Canes blew 2-0 leads. Miami finished with a record of 18-13 (11-9 ACC). UM made it to the Big Dance for only the second time in the program’s young history, after being snubbed the previous year. Head coach Nicole Lantagne Welch and her players recognized how special the achievement was. “You put so much work into a season and into reaching your goals

that it was just very exciting to see our name up on the [selection] board and know that we were going to the postseason, something that we really had felt that we had earned a year previously,” Lantagne Welch said. Rising junior outside hitter Lane Carico couldn’t help but smile looking back on the surprising finish to the season. “I was so excited. At very first I didn’t believe it and I was like, ‘I think there’s been a mistake,’ because our chances were so slim,” Carico said. “It just seemed like if anything we would have made it the year before…. Once it settled in that we did make it I was just like, ‘Wow, it’s time to get back to business,’ and it felt great.” Roller coaster year or not, the Hurricanes were good enough to make it to the postseason, proving they belonged in a thrilling five-set match with cross-town rival Florida International in the first round of the tournament. Unfortunately for Miami, the Golden Panthers won the match 3-2

(25-16,20-25,22-25,27-25,15-11). Nevertheless, both the players and the coaches fully expect to build upon the success of the past two seasons and make it back to the tournament in 2010. “I always have high expectations for our team, and I feel like we have a lot of key players back in key positions,” Lantagne Welch said. Carico, an All-America Honorable Mention for the second consecutive year who is now an upperclassman, will be a key leader for the Hurricanes squad next season. The 5-11 outside hitter finished the season with an ACC-best 506 kills. She already has high hopes for the upcoming year. “I expect a lot,” Carico said. “I expect to make the tournament and I think everybody is willing to make changes and work really hard and push ourselves way harder than we have before.” Adam Berger may be contacted at aberger@themiamihurricane.com

FAN PROFILE

Avid volleyball fan serves up energy, motivation Chambers becomes volleyball fixture BY ADAM BERGER STAFF SPORTS WRITER

In a University of Miami sport that only a dozen or so regulars frequent, rising junior Ian Chambers, along with a fluctuating combination of fellow juniors Charlie Roberts and Luke Barton, attend nearly every volleyball game. Sitting in the second row of the Knight Sports Complex wearing a neon orange wig, Chambers rises to his feet and begins to lead the crowd in a “Go Canes” chant. “We actually really enjoy it,” said Chambers, who missed only two games the entire season. “We just became fanatics. I’m just obsessed – I love it, I can’t get enough of it.” The players and coaches can’t seem to get enough of it either, and they’ve taken note of Chambers’ devotion. He makes sure that the group arrives early to each match so that it can give Miami the half hour pre-game cheering he feels the Hurricanes deserve.

Rising junior outside hitter Lane Carico said she loves the support and enthusiasm the guys bring to the Knight Sports Complex and head coach Nicole Lantagne Welch really appreciates the home-court advantage Chambers and his friends have provided. “The very first game I noticed them right away, and all I could say is, ‘This is great; This is what college athletics is all about,’” Lantagne Welch said. “You want to have people that are going to go nuts at your games, support you in every situation and we love having them in the stands… It just brings a smile to my face to know that they’re out there for us.” Chambers orchestrates all of the cheers from the bleachers. “We almost always lead something with Sebastian [the Ibis],” Chambers said. “He’s usually sitting with us so we’ll start up a ‘Go Canes’ chant or something like that.” The effort and support they have brought to the team really does make a difference, and one man who can truly appreciate it is Bryan Harvey. He is the sports information director for volleyball, rowing, women’s tennis and swimming and diving- all sports with rela-

tively low fan bases and media coverage. “I think that Ian provides the volleyball student-athletes with an experience similar to the one teams like basketball and football receive at every game,” Harvey said. “I honestly believe the volleyball team thrives on the energy provided by not only Ian, but the entire crowd, as a whole.” As to where Chamber’s knack for fanaticism comes from, look no further than his parents, both of whom are avid college sports fans. They are in no way taken aback by his devotion to the volleyball team because it is something they have seen plenty of times before, during Ian’s high school days. “I am not surprised at all by Ian’s enthusiasm,” said Kathy Chambers, Ian’s mother. “He made his sister’s field hockey games the place to be in high school. His younger teammates and friends still paint their chests and come to the big games. Many of them let me know when they see Ian on ESPN at a football game… That orange wig has certainly gotten its wear.” Adam Berger may be contacted at aberger@ themiamihurricane.com

JESSE SWANSON // File Photo

A SPIKE IN SPIRIT : ian Chambers cheers on the volleyball team against the Duke Blue Devils. SUMMER 2010

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FAN PROFILE

Sparkle and shine: UM’s Glitter Girls are back Fans leave messy trail of school spirit BY EMILY WINGROVE CONTRIBUTING SPORTS WRITER

On Saturday gamedays there is a spotlight on two rising juniors, and their names are not Jacory Harris and Sean Spence. A TV camera pans to the cheering crowd in the stands and then stops suddenly on two students aglow in orange and green-- the Glitter Girls. Lauren Lococo and Alex Goldklang, suitemates who live in Pearson Residential College, spend approximately four hours glittering up their entire bodies for each home football game. And that means giving up tailgating beforehand because these super fans have to shoulder their way in line to get front-row seats in the end zone in the student section. "We just want to make people

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excited and we want to support the team," Goldlkang said. Fortunately, Lococo and Goldklang have gained enough popularity that fellow students help by saving seats so they can be near the "Glitter Girls." The pair also gets repeated requests for pictures, not only with students, but also with Miami natives and alumni too. Matthew La Pan is a recent graduate who has sat near the Glitter Girls. "Even though I get covered in glitter when I sit near them, at the end of the day these girls are the perfect women: They love football," he said. Lococo finds it easy to have so much school spirit because she was born and raised in Miami as a Hurricanes fan. She even got a U tattoo before she was accepted into UM. "Lauren educated me on the UM history and it was really easy to get into it," said Goldklang, who is from New Jersey. Both girls came up with the

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idea to begin the glittering and it has turned out to be a bonding experience. This was the second year the girls have been glittering, but they received much more attention this past season, perhaps because the Hurricanes gave fans a lot more to cheer about. With new fads and fashions, there is always a risk of getting copied, but Lococo and Goldklang are not worried about that. "I don't think people will copy us because I don't think they'd have what it takes to commit to this," Goldklang said. "I even doubt myself sometimes." Despite all the work their fullbody glittering entails, Lococo and Goldklang said they will continue to attend every game. And when they graduate, they plan to pass down the ritual to two prospective freshmen to take over the responsibilities of the Glitter Girls. COURTESY OF EMILY WINGROVE

Emily Wingrove may be contacted at ewingrove@themiamihurricane.com

DIE-HARD DUO: Juniors Lauren Lococo (left) and Alex Goldklang stand out in the crowd with their sparkling spirit.

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CROSS COUNTRY

Long-distance speed fuels cross country Both women and men reached NCAA Tourney BY ERNESTO SUAREZ SENIOR SPORTS WRITER

COURTESY SCOTT ZAVITZ

KEEPING THE PACE: Rising senior Katharine Woodard has been on the crosscountry team for three years and is the top performer for the women’s team.

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Sometimes it’s about how long one can maintain one’s speed. Tasked with running long distances over rough terrain at different times of the day, the cross-country team competes in races as long as five miles. “South Florida has some of the worst conditions for cross-country running; the heat, humidity, and flat landscapes are not ideal,” rising senior Charles Michel said. “At the same time, having to prepare in those conditions makes racing in colder places up north easier.” Cross-Country season traditionally goes on during the fall semester, beginning in early September and usually ending just before December comes around. The team kicked off its season at the Greentree Invitational in Miami, where the men finished fourth and the women third, before traveling to locations such as

Gainesville, Orlando and Raleigh to finish the semester. After both teams finished 12th in the ACC Championships, they were invited to the NCAA Regional Championships for the first time since 2006. “Even though we didn’t place as high as we wanted to, I believe the season was a success,” rising senior Katharine Woodard said. “We showed we can all run well together, and on a good day, we can be really good.” Although seen as an individual sport, Woodard attributes real success to being able to rally behind your teammates. “No one wants to let anyone down,” she said. “We all have to do well for the team to do well.” As for next season, the team hopes to ride its momentum and advance. “There may be some uncertainty with the new freshmen that are coming in,” Michel said. “Still, most of last year’s team is returning, so we should be ready for a good season.” Ernesto Suarez may be contacted at esuarez@ themiamihurricane.com.

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ROWING

Rowing team brimming with potential Top-10 finishes excite second-year head coach BY ERNESTO SUAREZ SENIOR SPORTS WRITER

Rebuilding a program and changing the culture in the locker room is usually a long process, but for head coach Andrew Carter and the University of Miami rowing team, the first year already brought signs of promise. Coming in with over 20 years of coaching experience from both collegiate and international fields of competition, Carter set his main goal as creating a “first-rate rowing program through teambuilding and recruiting.” After completing the fall season with three top-10 finishes at the annual Rivanna Romp in Virginia, the team kicked off the spring season in early March, taking on teams such as Connecticut, Indiana and North Carolina. The Hurricanes would make it to the Atlantic Coast Conference Championships, where they finished sixth. Rising senior Sarah Medland was named to the All-ACC Rowing Team for the first time. “I’m pretty proud of the work put in this year,” Carter said. “In a transition year, there’s bound to be

a few bumpy roads. But those who have dedicated to it this year have really come out on the other end of the tunnel.” The team ended its season at the Aramark South/Central Regional Championships, earning a second-place finish on the final day of competition. Since Miami fielded just two boats in the ACC Championships, one of the challenges going into next season will be to expand the roster and add depth on all positions of the boat. It’s a challenge that Carter is ready to take. “There are some good recruits coming in, but one of our main focuses this coming year is a harder recruiting push on campus,” he said. “A lot of rowers are walk-ons, some row their way into scholarships, and in successful programs such as (’09 National Champion) Stanford, they do a good deal of their recruiting on campus.” Ask any of the rowers on the team and one might hear a similar message: Next year is brimming with potential. Anyone interested in joining the team can e-mail Mary Quinn at m.quinn@miami.edu. No rowing experience is necessary, though having a sporting background is a huge advantage. Ernesto Suarez may be contacted at esuarez@ themiamihurricane.com.

COURTESY BRYAN HARVEY

I’M ON A BOAT: The rowing team collected three top-10 finishes during a rebuilding season with a new head coach in Andrew Carter.

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SOCCER

Hurricanes finding themselves in ACC Toughest conference proves to be a challenge BY DEBORA RUBI SENIOR SPORTS WRITER

At the end of a roller coaster schedule of games, the University of Miami women’s soccer team (8-10-1, 3-6-1 ACC) continues to find its identity within the Atlantic Coast Conference, one of the toughest in the country. Heartbreaking losses started and ended the Hurricanes’ season. It began with a close 1-0 home loss to then-No. 8 Florida in front of the largest crowd ever (2,277) at Cobb Stadium. It ended with a 2-0 loss to Virginia that eliminated the Canes from the ACC Tournament. Miami, however, earned its biggest win in program history when the host Canes upset No. 2 North Carolina 1-0 on a Beverly Goebel goal. “The highlight of the year was beating UNC,” rising sophomore forward Kate Howarth said. “It’s just really important that we play as a team and improve together as a team.” For the second year in a row, strong defense defined the team, led by rising junior goalie Vikki Alonzo, who already holds the school record for shutouts (17). But the offense found it at times difficult to support Alonzo’s strong outings. Eight of the Hurricanes’ losses were shutouts, including heartbreakers against powerhouses Portland and Michigan. Despite this, the team continued to find success in both All-Academic ACC and NCAA honors. Rising senior defender Brittney Macdonald and rising senior forward Brittney Steinbruch earned All-Academic ACC for the third year in a row, while Goebel and rising junior midfielder Ashlee Burt made it for the first time. This upcoming season Miami must replace six seniors that played varying positions on the field. The Canes lose speed in the back without Jessica Wyble and attack up front without Paulelett Ricks-Chambers. Goebel, who was drafted by the Washington Freedom in Women’s Professional Soccer (WPS), will be a missed force in midfield for the Hurricanes. “There are always positions you're going to have to fill, but we have a great young class under us,” Steinbruch said. During spring practice, Howarth said that the improvement already fixed some of the mistakes from the fall. To Steinbruch, spring was the highlight of the season as it was the time when

ALEX BROADWELL // File Photo

GOAALLL!!: Rising senior Brittney Steinbruch fires a shot between two defenders into the left side of the net from 15 yards out as the Hurricanes scored a goal in each half for a 2-0 win over the Clemson Tigers on Breast Cancer Awareness Night. the team most came together. “The spring semester was different from other years,” Steinbruch said. “We did drills and agility as usual, but what we changed on and off the field was to create a great bond and chemistry to recover for next year and have a great season."

With a strong underclass that includes Howarth, rising sophomore midfielder Jordan Roseboro and four recruits, the goal remains to make both the ACC and NCAA Tournament. “We're different since it’s our last year,” Steinbruch said. “The seniors are driven to SUMMER 2010

win and have a great season and the young class is coming up and clicking with us.” Debora Rubi may be contacted at drubi@ themiamihurricane.com.

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SOCCER PROFILE

Soccer player maintains family legacy Ashlee Burt is the third to play at UM BY DEBORA RUBI SENIOR SPORTS WRITER

When Ashlee Burt decided to enroll at the University of Miami in 2008, she continued an athletic tradition started by her father, Jim Burt, Sr., who played football with the Canes. In addition, her brother Jim Burt, Jr., was an outfielder on the 2001 UM baseball team that won the College World Series. Burt carries on the athletic pedigree as a key member of the women’s soccer team. Two seasons ago she was one of just three freshmen to start all 22 matches. This past year her biggest moment came on the west coast when she scored the lone goal as Miami defeated No. 20 Washington 1-0. She vividly recalls attending her brother’s baseball games when he played from 2001 to 2004 at then-Mark Light

Field. “I love the area,” Ashlee said of Coral Gables. “It was like some of the best memories I had were here watching my brother play, so when I came back here I had all these memories of good times.” Her father was a two-time AllAmerican and played for the orange and green from 1978 until 1980. He would go on to win two Super Bowls with the New York Giants and the San Francisco 49ers as a defensive lineman. Ashlee didn’t always want to come to the University of Miami. “I kind of just wanted to do something different, just to be different, but in the end this is the right choice,” she said. Burt chose UM over Virginia, Princeton and Boston College. The New Jersey native had a strong desire to attend an Atlantic Coast Conference school, seen by many as the top soccer conference in the country. It was not until she met head coach Tricia Taliaferro that she realized the University of Miami was the perfect

place for her. “I think for her it was stepping on campus and interacting,” Taliaferro said. “There was a good connection. She is very much a blue-collar worker, something I really push for on the team.” Ashlee’s mentality has allowed her to be a starter since her arrival. The leftside defender has turned into one of the leaders of the team. Her parents usually make the trip down to watch her, just as they did with her brother. “She brings her competitive spirit and work ethic to the team,” Taliaferro said. “She leads by example, takes points to push her teammates in a way in which her teammates respect her.” Ashlee often seeks advice from her brother. Jim has even helped her train during the off-season. “Miami is a great school and a great program, and I knew it was a place where she could be an impact player and help build the program,” Jim said. Debora Rubi may be contacted at drubi@ themiamihurricane.com.

Learn the art and science of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, one of the most effective martial arts on the planet. Meetings are Friday 7:30-9:30 PM and Saturday mornings 11 AM - 1 PM. All skill levels welcome. No experience necessary. E-mail umjiujitsu@gmail.com for more information. 102

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CAYLA NIMMO // File Photo

WE ARE FAMILY: Rising junior Ashlee Burt poses by the goalpost following practice at Cobb Stadium.

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MEN’S BASKETBALL

Youth shows glimpses of bright future Freshman players impress team, coach BY LELAN LEDOUX SENIOR SPORTS WRITER

With the departure of one of the greatest players to ever compete at the University of Miami in Jack McClinton, the 2009-10 men’s basketball team set out to prove it could be a better unit without him. However, the Canes fell short with a 20-14 (4-12 ACC) record. Despite going to the National Invitation Tournament last season under McClinton, the Hurricanes didn’t qualify after a rough end to the regular season. Picked to finish 10th in the Atlantic Coast Conference, Miami got off to a 15-1 start for the first time since the 1959-1960 season and finished its non-conference slate with a perfect 14-0 record. Cracking the polls for the third year in a row, the Hurricanes went 3-11 the rest of the way. UM failed to capture any wins in eight conference games away from the BankUnited Center. It wasn’t until the ACC Tournament that the Canes played their best basketball of the season as they upset two of the best teams in the tournament despite being the lowest seed. Miami beat Wake Forest and Virginia Tech before losing to the ACC Champion and National Champion Duke Blue Devils. Prior to this season, no team in program history had ever won two postseason conference games in the same season. Even when the Hurricanes shared the Big East Title in 2000, the Canes didn’t win two games. And the team did this without its leading scorer and rebounder, recent graduate Dwayne Collins. “You can just see the potential of this basketball team,” head coach Frank Haith said. “I think our best basketball is

LINDSAY BROWN // File Photo

NOTHING BUT NET, AND FOR THE WIN: The Miami Hurricanes celebrate at mid court after James Dews sinks a game-winning threepointer at the buzzer to upset the 20th-ranked Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets, 64-62, Feb. 10. at the BankUnited Center. ahead of us in this program. These guys are all babies and we’re only going to have one senior on our team next year, so I think it’s going to be a team that can have some success down the road.” Guard play will be Miami’s strong suit this upcoming year. Towards the end of the season, rising sophomore Durand Scott took over for the Canes and proved to be the playmaker the team needed. Scott was Miami’s first ever ACC All-Rookie team pick and he received ACC All-Tournament First Team. He will share the backcourt with redshirt junior Malcolm Grant. The pair could be the

fastest combination in the ACC this upcoming season. Scott said he is ready for the challenges presented to him and his teammates. “I was born to do this. I live for this,” Scott said. “As a team we have to get better and we will have a better season next year.” Redshirt sophomore Reggie Johnson, who was an ACC AllTournament Second Team pick and was named Most Improved Player on the team, will be the force in the paint. “I learned a ton. The speed of the game is so much different from high school to college,” he said. “Dwayne Collins taught

me a lot. He showed me moves in the post and I became a better player. I treated the practice like it was my games and kept telling my teammates just wait until next year.” Said Haith: “There’s no question, the way these young guys played at the end of the year, it gives us encouragement going into next season. There’s reason to be optimistic about what this team is capable of next year. I think we are capable of having a great year.” Lelan LeDoux may be contacted at lledoux@themiamihurricane.com.

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2010 SIGNING CLASS ERIK SWOOPE 6-5, 220-pound (F) North Hollywood, Calif. RION BROWN 6-5, 190-pound (G) Hinesville, Ga. RAPHAEL AKPEJIORI 6-9, 230-pound (F) Lagos, Nigeria

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MEN’S BASKETBALL Q&A

Playing some ball with Reggie Johnson Redshirt sophomore looks to build on success BY JUSTIN ANTWEIL SENIOR SPORTS WRITER

The University of Miami men’s basketball team finished last in the Atlantic Coast Conference this past season, but came on strong in the ACC Tournament. A key returner is redshirt sophomore Reggie Johnson. Johnson averaged 6.4 points and 4.6 rebounds while leading the team in free-throw percentage, shooting at a 78.5 percent clip. REGGIE Get to know “Big JOHNSON Reg” a little bit better. The Miami Hurricane: How would you best describe this past year? Reggie Johnson: It was so much fun. Just playing in the ACC was unreal. When you play teams like Wake Forest, Duke and UNC, you know you’re legit. It was great traveling and being in hotels, and I just love my teammates.

TMH: Did you expect to be that effective your first year? RJ: I honestly thought so. I always had the right mentality. I was just waiting on an opportunity. Once Dwayne [Collins] went down in the ACC Tournament, I had the opportunity and I made the most of it. TMH: What did you learn from your redshirt year to your first year? RJ: I learned a ton. The speed of the game is so much different from high school to college. Dwayne Collins taught me a lot. He showed me moves in the post and I became a better player. I treated practice like it was my games and kept telling my teammates to just wait until next year. I treated my practices like I was going up against Duke and North Carolina. TMH: How much weight did you lose and how hard was it? RJ: I lost 40 pounds. It was real hard. I had to change my whole eating style. Whole milk became 2 percent milk. Frosted Flakes became Cheerios. Fried chicken became baked chicken. TMH: What’s your best move in the paint? RJ: I actually like backing down the defender, then doing a little hook shot. TMH: Tell me about the ACC Tour-

nament when you were named to the ACC All-Tournament Second Team. RJ: It was a great experience because it was in my hometown. I knew all the guys on Wake Forest, so that was fun. Virginia Tech is a hard-nosed team and Duke is Duke. It was frustrating losing to Duke, but we realized that they played together and that showed us what playing together can do because they ended up winning the national championship. They are not the most talented team, but they played together. TMH: What makes you such a good free-throw shooter? RJ: I guess I just have a soft touch. I actually led my high school team in free-throw percentage as well. TMH: Why did you choose UM and what other offers did you have? RJ: I had offers from Wake Forest, Virginia Tech and VCU, but I chose UM because Coach [Frank] Haith was the most persistent and wanted me the most. He was always in Carolina watching my high school games or visiting my house. I wanted to let him know that I appreciated his support so I came to UM. TMH: Do you think playing a tougher non-conference schedule next year will help this team?

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RJ: I think it will definitely help. Playing great competition earlier on will prepare us for the ACC. I know Syracuse has a sweet dome so I want to go there. TMH: What is something that people don’t know about Reggie Johnson? RJ: I love singing. I am singing all the time in the locker room. I like Boyz II Men. I can actually dance too. Adrian Thomas taught me all the Miami moves. TMH: What was your welcome to the ACC moment? RJ: Our first ACC game against Boston College. We got totally demolished on the boards and I could not believe it. There are 6-foot-1 guys out rebounding 6-foot-8 guys. We were more talented, but BC played harder. It taught us that you cannot quit. TMH: How good can Miami be next year? RJ: We can be real good. I’m looking forward to it. I cannot wait for the season. We were on such a roll at the end of last year I wanted to go to the NIT. We will come out hungry. We competed with the national champions twice, so that should say enough. Justin Antweil may be contacted at jantweil@ themiamihurricane.com.

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WOMEN’S BASKETBALL

Miami celebrates as WNIT runner-up

MELANIE MAXWELL // The Associated Press

IN IT TO WIN IT: Miami players celebrate after defeating the University of Michigan, 76-59, in the semifinal round of the Women’s National Invitation Tournament.

Program earned its best finish of all time BY JUSTIN ANTWEIL SENIOR SPORTS WRITER

The marching band, cheerleaders, faculty and students gathered at the rock for a pep rally to honor the University of Miami women's basketball as it returned to campus after traveling 10,000 miles in less than a week. With a 22-14 (4-10 ACC) record for its most successful season in five years, Miami won five games in the WNIT, but lost 73-61 in the championship game to California. Regardless of the result, this was still an extremely successful year for the Hurricanes as they grew and matured over the past month of the season after dealing with heartbreaking

losses in the Atlantic Coast Conference. “I’m extremely proud of my players and coaching staff,” fifth-year head coach Katie Meier said. “We worked really hard all season, but just got outplayed by Cal. I have never seen a team make more shots in the final 10 seconds of the shot clock in all my years of coaching.” It could have been very easy for Meier and the Hurricanes to fold and give up. At a school known for its football and baseball prowess, this UM hoops squad usually flew under the radar. Instead, the team made a statement in its final month of play to prove that it is a formidable opponent with NCAA Tournament aspirations next year. Eighty percent of the team returns. “This was a great learning experience,” second team All-ACC guard Riquna Williams said.

Miami could have made numerous excuses, but Meier wasn’t going to let anyone have sympathy for her team. The Hurricanes traveled to three different time zones in a five-day span. They had eight underclassmen. No UM women’s team had ever won more than one game in a single postseason prior to this year. With the toughest draw of any team in the 64-team field in the WNIT, Miami took down scrappy Florida Gulf Coast, the rival Florida Gators, an N.C. A&T team that should have made the NCAA Tournament, host Providence, Michigan and a Cal team that had three McDonald’s All-Americans. Despite the tough circumstances, Meier and her team handled the adversity. Miami has a top-25 recruiting class coming in next year, but, more importantly, its two stars - rising juniors Shenise Johnson and Williams SUMMER 2010

will be back. Johnson is an All-American candidate who is a triple-double threat every night and Williams was a three-pointer away from tying the ACC record for most three-point field goals made in a single season. All the Hurricanes are lacking is a dominant post-player down low. They got beat 4826 in the paint by the Golden Bears. Still, there is hope and promise because the final few weeks of the season taught this team how to win. There is a fine line between winning and losing, and the Hurricanes, under the guidance and tutelage of Meier and her resilient staff, learned how to finish and learned how to overcome adversity. Justin Antweil may be contacted at jantweil@ themiamihurricane.com. FIRST IMPRESSION

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SWIMMING AND DIVING

Diver concludes stellar four-year career Reuben Ross won a national title in 2008 BY ERNESTO SUAREZ SENIOR SPORTS WRITER

COURTESY JC RIDLEY

JUST KEEP SWIMMING...: Rising sophomore Kayla Smith swims some practice laps during the 2009-2010 Swimming & Diving Photo Day.

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Senior Reuben Ross capped off his collegiate career with a fifth-place finish in the 1-meter springboard at the NCAA Men’s Championships in Ohio this past spring. Swimming and diving season kicked off in early October, with the Hurricanes starting off with tough losses against Clemson, Georgia Tech and Western Kentucky. Although the team lost out on some wins due to not competing in the diving portions of competition, there was improvement across the board in the swimmers’ times. At the Ohio State Invitational in December, the Canes were able to piece together fifth out of 15 teams. Rising sophomore Christine Anderson finished first in the C finals of the 200-yard breaststroke and rising junior Erin Simpson collected a UM-best mark in the 200-yard butterfly. “The girls swam really well today,” head coach Christie Shefchunas had said after the

first day of competition. “We had a lot of breakthrough swims for a lot of ladies. Today wasn’t even supposed to be a strong day for us, but everyone did well.” Miami ended its season 10th overall at the ACC championships in Chapel Hill, N.C. Individually, rising senior Annika Saarnak finished 13th in the 100-meter freestyle, which earned her an NCAA “B” cut qualifying time. Rising junior Roxanne Meyer captured third in the C-Finals in the 200 backstroke. Ross was the only member of the squad who competed in the NCAA Zone Championships and NCAA Championships, REUBEN ROSS and was named to the ESPN The Magazine Academic All-District III for the second year. “There is no doubt Miami swimming and diving is a program on the rise,” newly hired assistant coach Shaun Zitani said. Ernesto Suarez may be contacted at esuarez@ themiamihurricane.com.

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GOLF

Hall of Fame coach retires after 27 years The end of the women’s golf season this year also brought with it the end of a reign by one of the longest-tenured Hurricane coaches. Lela Cannon stepped down as head coach of the women’s golf team after 27 years. Among her remarkable accomplishments were five state championLELA CANNON ships and a national championship in her first year with UM. The Hall of Fame coach announced her decision to retire in November. “I really have enjoyed my time at the University,” she said back in Decem-

ber. “The University of Miami has been my home for the last 27 years, and I will continue to support the Hurricanes.” Heading into the season, the squad was relatively young, with three freshmen, two sophomores and two juniors making up the roster. However, the team did have its fair share of success as the season progressed. The Hurricanes finished eighth out of 17 teams at the Hurricane Invitational in February. It also took first place at the Edwin Watts/Kiawah Classic, the largest collegiate women’s tournament, for the second straight year. Miami ended its season in the Atlantic Coast Conference Tournament in Greensboro, N.C., where the Hurricanes placed eighth out of nine teams, finishing just ahead of Boston College. Rising junior Begona Sarabia recorded the best score for the Canes, finishing at 21-over par. Taking over the reins for the Hurricanes will be Patti Rizzo, a former UM

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Lela Cannon will be replaced by Patti Rizzo BY ERNESTO SUAREZ SENI0R SPORTS WRITER

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All-American and 20-year veteran on the Ladies Professional Golf Association (LPGA). She comes in after coaching Barry University for five seasons, leading them to a top -10 national ranking in each of her five years. “I’m extremely excited. I’ve been dreaming of this opportunity,” Rizzo said in April. “I started my career at the University of Miami and things have come full circle where I have the chance to finish up where I started. “I am so appreciative of the support from my family, friends and the people at Miami. I am just so thrilled to be back.” The golf team starts the new season in mid-September. Information for this article was compiled from hurricanesports.com. Ernesto Suarez may be contacted at esuarez@themiamihurricane.com.

STEVE ROOT // File Photo

PUTTING FOR THE VICTORY: Golfer Christina Hirano was one of the team’s juniors during this past season.

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BASEBALL

Gators oust Canes from NCAA Tournament Florida beats Miami for the second year BY JUSTIN ANTWEIL SENIOR SPORTS WRITER

The University of Miami’s pursuit of a fifth national championship came to a halt in Gainesville, Fla. for the second time in as many years. Miami (43-20) was swept by the rival University of Florida Gators in the Super Regional and was not able to reach the College World Series, the team’s ultimate goal every year. "It was a good season," 17th-year head coach Jim Morris said. "Ninety-five percent of the teams in America would like to have it, but at Miami there’s a high standard. It was an outstanding season, but a great season is when you win it all.” The Canes committed nine errors in the two games of the Super Regional, which ultimately haunted them. They committed a season-high seven errors in the final game. In 2009 Miami lost to Florida twice in the Gainesville Regional. “Anytime we don’t make it to Omaha we view the season as a failure,” junior pitcher Chris Hernandez said. “A lot of guys had good seasons individually, but as a team we fell short of our goal.” The Hurricanes had trouble winning series against top-notch competition. Miami lost to Florida, Georgia Tech, Florida State, Virginia Tech and Virginia. It also lost two of three games in the Atlantic Coast Conference Tournament in Greensboro, N.C. All five of those teams made the NCAA Tournament. “We just need to be more consistent,” sophomore pitcher Sam Robinson said. “We have all the tools. They just need to come all together at once.” Despite the bitter end to the season, there were some great individual accomplishments. Junior catcher Yasmani Grandal had one of the most productive seasons in Miami baseball history. He was named ACC Player of the Year and was selected 12th overall in the 2010 Major League Baseball Amateur Draft by the Cincinnati Reds. Grandal will join former Hurricane first-round pick Yonder Alonso in the Reds organization. The two played with each other in 2008. “It’s disappointing we could not go back to Omaha like we did my freshman year, but I’m excited about my future,” said Grandal, who hit .401, with 15 home runs

STEVEN STUTS // First Impression

GOING FOR THE SWEEP: Senior first baseman Scott Lawson hits a ball during the third game of a three-game series against Wake Forest this spring at Alex Rodriguez Park at Mark Light Field. The Miami Hurricanes would go on to win 10-1. and 60 RBI. “All the hard work has paid off and I’m excited to see what my future has in store for me.” Grandal’s battery mate, Hernandez, had a stellar campaign that earned him a selection by the Boston Red Sox in the seventh round. Hernandez earned First Team AllACC Honors while tabulating a 10-3 record with a 2.64 ERA. He struck out 110 batters and walked just 35. Hernandez went 2-0 in three postseason appearances, tossing 16.1 innings and allowing only one earned run. But Miami was decimated by injuries throughout the year. Redshirt junior Eric Erickson, who was 23-6 in his Hurricane career, missed the final two months of the season due to

left elbow soreness. He had Tommy John surgery two years ago and missed the entire 2009 season. “A lot of things have to go right to get to Omaha,” Morris said. “He and Chris [Hernandez], they were like having 1A and 1B. We felt they could beat anybody.” Sophomore third baseman Harold Martinez, who led the team with 21 home runs and 69 RBI, did not play the final game against Florida in which the Canes were eliminated 4-3 in extra innings. Martinez started the first 122 games of his Hurricane career, but was sidelined in the final game with a left leg infection after fouling off numerous balls on his shin the last few weeks of the season. This was the first team in Hurricane SUMMER 2010

history to record at least 100 homers, 100 stolen bases and 20 triples. It was a young squad that started four freshmen, so much of the core returns next year. “We were a young team, but we had a lot of fight in us and great chemistry,” Hernandez said. “I think with the next couple of teams they’ve got coming in they’ll be back in Omaha and definitely be a contender.” Listen to every Miami Hurricanes baseball game whether it be at home, on the road or during the postseason on the student radio station at the University of Miami, WVUM 90.5 FM. Justin Antweil may be contacted at jantweil@ themiamihurricane.com. FIRST IMPRESSION

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BASEBALL PROFILE

Announcer calls four decades worth of ball Jay Rokeach remains staple for UM baseball BY CHRISTINA DE NICOLA EDITOR IN CHIEF

All Jay Rokeach wanted was a free trip to Hawaii and Los Angeles when he started his first semester at the University of Miami back in 1968. As Rokeach passed the baseball field he introduced himself to future Hall of Fame head coach Ron Fraser and started working for him that day. Forty-two seasons later, Rokeach remains the public address announcer at Alex Rodriguez Park at Mark Light Field. “It’s a nice sign to see that I’ve been able to last,” he said. “I’ve seen hundreds of great players. I’ve seen a wonderful program develop from a very minor program to what is certainly now one of the top-five baseball programs in the country.” Rokeach has lent his voice to other

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University of Miami sporting events: football games since 1986, basketball games since 1988 and volleyball matches since 2001. According to Rokeach his announcing style isn’t a science. “It’s just making sure that the fans and players are excited and that you’re creating a great environment,” he said. Head coach Jim Morris said he even remembers Rokeach’s signature delivery while visiting as the coach of Georgia Tech. “JayRo’s great. Anytime I come out here, to be honest with you, and I don’t hear JayRo’s voice and I hear another voice I kind of look down because he’s expected,” Morris said. Rokeach has been around for all four national championships. “When you think of baseball you think of his voice,” former player Ryan Perry said. “He’s been here forever and he’s one of a kind.” Christina De Nicola may be contacted at cdenicola@themiamihurricane.com.

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STEVEN STUTS // File Photo

THE U: Jay Rokeach introduces Milwaukee Brewer and former Cane Ryan Braun.

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BASEBALL FEATURE

Tasty milkshakes are home runs at A-Rod Park Stand has been around for 25 years BY MICHELLE SALOM CONTRIBUTING SPORTS WRITER

At baseball games, fans always eat the traditional food that complements America’s favorite pastime. Hot dogs, peanuts and cracker jack are the typical snacks of choice. But

“THE LIGHT” FAMOUS MILK SHAKES $4.50 Jayro Everything chocolate Omaha Express Chocolate mint Any 2 flavors

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at Alex Rodriguez Park at Mark Light Field, milkshakes are the hot commodity. Milkshake vendor Mitch Freedman has been making his delicious frozen treats at Miami Hurricane games for over 25 years. His stand, called The Home Plate Creamery, has been cooling people off longer than most of the students at UM have been alive. Battling the South Florida heat is tough, but a Freedman milkshake is just the thing to cool you down. Outfielder Michael Broad is a big fan of the milkshakes. He even drinks them before games to get a boost. “Those milkshakes have been at the field for as long as I could remember,” Broad said. “When I was little I would always come to the games and have them, but now that I am a player and he is still here making them and I can enjoy them before a game is so cool.” Freedman says that his milk-

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shakes are the best in town because he uses only natural ingredients and does it all by hand. “We use the same mentality as Papa John’s pizza; better ingredients, better pizza,” he said. Fourth-year pitcher Eric Erickson believes milkshakes could even be a recruiting tool. “Being able to have a quality milkshake from A-Rod Park is an added benefit of being a Hurricane ball player,” the southpaw said. Due to the new stadium, Freedman has had to make a few adjustments in location and appliances. Having a good workspace and a lot of appliances that help him produce milkshakes faster has been better for business. “People always used to have to wait and now this location has cut down the waiting time for all my customers,” he said. Freedman could not disclose how many he sells per game, but he did say the most popular flavors are

BRITTNEY BOMNIN // File Photo

TASTY TREAT: Former baseball player, Neil Carson, lets his son, Hayden, sip from a milkshake during a baseball game. chocolate and Oreo. He uses real Oreo bits, whole milk, Haagen Dazs ice cream and frozen yogurt. He said the fresher the ingredients, the better the taste.

Michelle Salom may be contacted at msalom@themiamihurricane.com.

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TRACK AND FIELD

Ti’erra Brown claims second at NCAAs

COURTESY CHERYL TREWORGY

UP, UP AND AWAY: Rising senior Ti’erra Brown competes in the 400-meter hurdles at the NCAA Championships in Eugene, Ore. She finished in second place.

Hurdler goes on to win USA event BY ERNESTO SUAREZ SENIOR SPORTS WRITER

In a year where potential championship talk was the norm for some squads, one member of the track and field team came through for the orange and green. Rising senior Ti’erra Brown became the first UM athlete to win a USA National Track title for the program when she captured the 400-meter hurdles during the U.S. Outdoor Track & Field Championships in Iowa. She won the race in 54.84 seconds, the second fastest time

in her career. “It was one of the greatest feelings coming away with the championship today,” Brown said after the event. “Coming out of the NCAAs, I was kind of down, but I knew it wasn’t the only race in the world. So I used that frustration to my advantage this weekend.” Rising senior Tameka Jameson also competed in her first USA Championship, placing fifth with a time of 56.48 seconds. “Personally, I’m grateful for the opportunity to compete in the championships, but I was not satisfied with my race,” Jameson said. “I can use this experience as a stepping stone for greater races in my near fu-

ture.” The track team began its indoor season at the Kentucky Invitational in Lexington, where Deandra Doyley and Corey Nelms led the Hurricanes to impressive wins. The indoor season was also highlighted by Devon Hill and Ashley Dukes coming away with their first conference titles. During outdoor season, which began in mid-March at the Hurricane Invitational in Coral Gables, Jameson got off to a fast start, winning both the 200- and 400-meter dashes. The outdoor season also included competitions in Gainesville, Clemson and Philadelphia, before ending in Atlanta. On the men’s side, Nelms

had what was arguably his best season as a senior. In the National Quarterfinals, Nelms ran the 100-meter hurdles in 13.65 seconds, a school record. He was also a member of the 4x100 relay squad, alongside DeMarcus Van Dyke, Travis Benjamin and Brandon McGee, that broke another school relay record at 39.57 seconds. Also making an impact during the season was the announcement that Ohio prep star Latwan Anderson had signed a Letter of Intent in March to join the squad. The dual athlete was ranked 12th in the nation in the indoor 55-meter dash and played defensive back for the Glenville SUMMER 2010

football team, where he was named Division I Second Team All-State. Although several members of the squad are already looking forward to next season, that’s not to say that it won’t present a few challenges. Still, there is a lot of optimism for the squad. “Having two Lady Hurricanes competing in the finals together shows the great depth within Miami’s hurdle program and definitely put us on people’s radar,” Jameson said. Information for this article was compiled from hurricanesports. com. Ernesto Suarez may be contacted at esuarez@themiamihurricane.com.

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ALUMNUS PROFILE

Former Cane plays for hometown Fish

COURTESY FLORIDA MARLINS CREATIVE SERVICES

HOMETOWN KID: Gaby Sanchez takes a lead off first base as a Florida Marlin.

COURTESY ROB DUNNING

IT’S ALL ABOUT THE U: Gaby Sanchez steps up to the plate as a Miami Hurricane.

Gaby Sanchez plays first base for Marlins BY CHRISTINA DE NICOLA EDITOR IN CHIEF

As Gaby Sanchez rounded the bases following his first home run of the season, a three-run shot off of Los Angeles Dodgers right-hander Vicente Padilla, chants of “It’s great to be a Miami Hurricane” filled Sun Life Stadium. Sanchez, a local product out of Brito High School and the University of Miami, won the Florida Marlins starting first base job during spring training. The 26 year old had seen limited action since his Major League Baseball debut on September 17, 2008. “He was more relaxed this year than

he was last year, and I think what he went through last year helped him to make the team,” then-Marlins manager Fredi Gonzalez said. According to University of Miami head coach Jim Morris, what sets Sanchez apart is his hitting, something that’s a necessity to making “The Show.” “Gaby has always been a good hitter whether it was in high school or at the University of Miami,” Morris said. The molding of this future major leaguer started at the age of 4 when Sanchez began to play catch with his father, Remberto, Sr.. Around this time, the Florida Marlins celebrated their inaugural season in 1993. Playing sports year-round, Sanchez rarely attended games. Instead, he and his dad would watch games on TV. Sanchez doesn’t remember

his first game at then-Joe Robbie Stadium, but he does recall going to the World Series parade in 1997. While some of his teammates skipped college to sign professional baseball contracts, Sanchez believes his three years at UM give him an advantage. “I feel like college baseball definitely prepared me to be in the situation that I’m in now with the work ethics, the working out, playing the game [the way] it’s supposed to be played,” he said. Of all the college baseball programs, the Hurricane fraternity can make an argument as one of the best in the major leagues. Milwaukee Brewers outfielder Ryan Braun was Sanchez’s roommate their junior year and they still talk twice a week. The pair was even selected in the 2005 MLB Draft- Braun in the first round (fifth overall) and Sanchez in the fourth (126th overall). Since the two-time All-Star and former National League Rookie of the Year has four years of experience under his belt, Sanchez at times looks to his former teammate for advice. “He’s one of my best friends and I’ll always be here for him,” Braun said. “I’ve been through everything he’s going through right now. Whenever something does come SUMMER 2010

up he doesn’t hesitate to ask.” A call that Sanchez’s father received from a former modified softball teammate who also happened to be the regional scout for the Marlins changed everything. On March 3, Sanchez came full circle when he faced the Hurricanes in an exhibition game in Jupiter. “When I went to school and we got to play against Florida, it was a big thing for us,” Sanchez said. “To be on the other side of it now… We can’t let a college team beat us, but it’s still fun.” As 16 of his family members took their seats behind home plate, Sanchez trotted out when his name was called during player introductions on opening night. “It’s one of the things I’ve looked forward to my entire life,” he said. After Sanchez’s three-run homer gave the Marlins a 4-3 lead, Remberto looked around to find those adorned in teal throwing up the U sign and chanting Gaby’s name. Pride clearly evident in his voice, Remberto finishes describing the scene. “And now after [fan favorite] Cody [Ross], they’re going ‘Gaby.’” Christina De Nicola may be contacted at cdenicola@themiamihurricane.com.

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MEN’S TENNIS

Highly rated recruiting class set to arrive Miami hopes to get back to NCAA Tourney BY DEBORA RUBI SENI0R SPORTS WRITER

GRACE FULLER // First Impression

RETURN GAME: Rising senior Christian Blocker returns a serve this past season. Blocker, in his second year at UM, played in both the first and second positions.

Taking on top-ranked Virginia in the Atlantic Coast Conference Tournament, the 41st-ranked University of Miami’s men’s tennis team’s season came to a premature close with a 4-0 loss. For the first time since 2005 the Hurricanes failed to make the NCAA Tournament. “We had a slow start and started to play better towards the end,” head coach Mario Rincon said. The Canes (11-11) had a tough season trying to overcome the loss of All-American Daniel Vallverdu in the first position and David Rosenfeld who played in both the second and third positions. “Losing such important players definitely made the year challenging,” Rincon said. “We had to depend in a lot of matches on a group effort in order to try and main-

tain the level we had the last couple of years.” Rising seniors Carl Sundberg and Christian Blocker alternated at the top position. Sundberg, who was the only Miami singles player ranked nationally through the season, had competed in the third spot. “I think we got better as the year progressed,” Blocker said. “We didn’t start so well as a result of not playing together, and we hadn’t gotten a lot of practice in.” Miami notched a 4-3 come-from-behind victory against No. 14 Duke at home to cap a four-game winning streak. During the offseason the program added Omar Aly from Oklahoma, ranked No. 48 in the country, and Gabriel Flores from Puerto Rico, ranked seventh in the nation. “Our No. 1 goal is to make the NCAA Tournament,” Blocker said. “We all disliked that feeling of not making it this year and we expect to be back to the form we had the last couple of years and making the Sweet 16.” Debora Rubi may be contacted at drubi@ themiamihurricane.com.

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WOMEN’S TENNIS PROFILE

Vallverdu sets program mark for victories Senior became all-time wins leader during illustrious career BY PEDRO ORTIZ-MEOZ CONTRIBUTING SPORTS WRITER

On a quiet, cloudy Sunday afternoon f te t rn noo oon n at the Neil Schiff Tennis Center, hi hisstory was made. You wouldn’t have been able le to tell by the reactions, however. As a matter of fact, even the he athlete that fought her way into the hee University of Miami record books okss wasn’t aware of what she had just s t ac ac-complished. With a 6-1, 6-2 singles victory y over over M Misis-is sissippi State’s Olesya Tsigvintseva e va o on n Ja JJan. n. 3 31, 1, UM’s recent graduate Laura Vallverdu allv al lv ver erdu du became b ec ecam amee Miami’s all-time leader in singles w wins women’s in n s fo forr wo wome m n’ me ns tennis. She celebrated the win like any othe other, h r, with h a small fist pump and a handshake ke with her rival be-fore heading to the other courts to cheer on her team-mates. “I had heard I was getting close ose but I didn’t know w how close or even how many matches h the h record d was,” ”

Vallverdu said. Vallverdu, now a four-time All-American with a No. 7 singles national ranking, had won her 111th career singles match to surpass alumna Audrey Bañada (2003-2007) for the most all-time UM women’s tennis singles competition victories. g p deserves “Nobody d de serves it more. She puts work and in tthe he w he ork or k a n d she’s got the attitude,” head coach Paige Yaroshukninth-year h he ad coac “She’s probably one of the Tews said. “ “S he’s pro you see in college most explosivee players yo pl she’s very receptive to coaching. tennis and she e’ss v ve ry rece apart.” Those things sset ett her apar Val a Valencia, Venezuela naVa a l lverdu, l vee rd lve rdu, u, Valenc tive, credited Yaroshuk-Tews after her tive ti ve,, cr ve r ed e it ited ed Yaro Ya ro o sh s breaking win. r e c o r d brea br ea a ki k “From the beginning she real“Fro “F r m ro t eb th believed in me and saw ly be e li liee what wha wh a my weaknesses were we and helped me improve them,” she im said. s sa “Also, I really love the Unia versity of Miami and I wanted to give them back LINDSAY BROWN // File Photo for all they’ve

given me.” Bañada was in attendance for the match and reminded her former teammate, Vallverdu, that she was approaching her record. Yaroshuk-Tews praised Bañada for her impact on the program. “Audrey is the reason why we’re a top-10 team in the country right now,” Yaroshuk-Tews said. “She was a player that came through here and set high standards for everyone and really helped establish Miami tennis.” Vallverdu, an NCAA Singles Finalist in 2009, has now raised the bar and guided the seventh-ranked Miami women’s tennis team. “Laura is an incredible leader to have on this team,” said Yaroshuk-Tews. Vallverdu was not concerned about all-time records and rewriting history, she had other things on her mind. “I’m looking forward to getting into shape during the whole season to peak at the right time, and go for the national title,” Vallverdu said. “But my first focus right now is the team.” Pedro Ortiz-Meoz may be contacted at portizmeoz@ themiamihurricane.com.

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WOMEN’S TENNIS

Pair reaches NCAA singles’ Sweet 16 Miami only college team to achieve feat BY CHRISTINA DE NICOLA EDITOR IN CHIEF

Despite losing two of its top four singles players, the University of Miami women’s tennis team made it to the NCAA Quarterfinals for the fourth time in five years. The 10th-ranked Hurricanes lost 4-0 to the third-ranked Florida Gators in Athens, Ga. Recent graduate Laura Vallverdu and rising senior Bianca Eichkorn both reached the “Sweet 16” to make Miami (20-6) the only program to send two singles players into the round. “I don’t think anyone expected this year’s program, once we found out Julia Cohen wasn’t coming back, to end up No. 10 in the country,” head coach Paige Yaroshuk-Tews said. “We kept our focus and we kept moving forward and we kept getting better.” Vallverdu, a four-time All-American whose run ended in the semifinals, finished her UM career with the most singles victories in program history. Her record was 131-34 over four years and she led the team with a seasonhigh 35 victories. She was the NCAA singles runner-up last year. “It hasn’t really sunk in yet that I’m not going back to school and playing for the team,” Vallverdu said. “Not only was it an athletic experience, but I hung out with amazing people for four years.” Next season the Canes will field two freshmen, two sophomores and two juniors. Eichkorn, who ranked 40th in the country and won 26 consecutive matches until she lost in the Sweet 16, will be the lone senior. “I think she’s proven to herself that she can play with the best kids in the country and that’s what she’s going to be doing next year,” Yaroshuk-Tews said. “We’re going to expect her to step up and lead the team and I think that she’s finally proven to herself that she can do that.” It will be up to Eichkorn to fill Vallverdu’s shoes as the team leader and player at the first position. In college tennis, six singles players can win a point for the overall team score. Three doubles matches decide the doubles point. The first team to four points wins. “She’s a great girl. She’s very disciplined,” Vallverdu said. “She’s going to

COURTESY CÉSAR BARROSO

HIT ME WITH YOUR BEST SHOT: Rising junior Anna Bartenstein went 7-2 during fall singles competition. Before transferring to the University of Miami, Bartenstein played for Tulane University. She also finished 2-1 against nationally ranked opponents. have to be tough on the new girls, but take them under her wing. She keeps up what she’s doing and she’s going to do great. She just has to stay calm and don’t let the pressure of being the top position affect her.” Set to attend Barry University to receive her master’s in sport and exercise psychology, Vallverdu plans on attending matches next spring. She’ll continue to be her vocal self and encourage her

former teammates while in the stands. “The other girls are doing awesome. They finished this year very well,” Vallverdu said. “I think they’re just going to have to stick with the philosophy and keep doing what Paige preaches.” Yaroshuk-Tews doesn’t expect any sort of drop in play with the loss of Vallverdu. This past season the team won 15 of its first 17 matches and finished second in the Atlantic Coast Conference beSUMMER 2010

hind the North Carolina Tar Heels. “My expectations for any team I coach is that they come out and they give everything that they have and whatever happens, happens,” Yaroshuk-Tews said. “We like to keep things pretty simple and focused and that’s what we do.” Christina De Nicola may be contacted at cdenicola@themiamihurricane.com. FIRST IMPRESSION

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CLUB SPORTS

Rolley hockey named ‘Most Improved’ Club is now one of the most competitive BY ERNESTO SUAREZ SENIOR SPORTS WRITER

Although it may not be the “Miracle on Ice,” there is one team on campus that has made a dramatic comeback. The UM Roller Hockey Club, after struggling both competitively and financially just one year ago, is now arguably one of the more competitive club sports on campus. The team has a rags-toriches-type story, where hard work and dedication led the team to its most successful season in recent memory and a bright future in front of it. President Bradley Armas and Vice President Alex Lopez’s work ethic has been essential in this resurgence of the club, which recently won “Most Improved Club” at the Club Sports Award Banquet this past spring. “The team was pretty much handed to us, so we had to start from scratch,” said Lopez, who has been with the club

for three years. “We had to meet with Rhonda [DuBord] for hours and hours to try and save the club.” The team currently has about 40 members, of which 12 travel and attend competitions. Practices are held at least once a week and are spent working on drills, recreating game scenarios and participating in team scrimmages. Practice usually starts within the first two weeks that students return for classes. Though classified as a Division-II team, the club faces both Division-I and Division-II opponents from the southeastern region, including state foes such as UF, FSU and UCF. At one point this year, the roller hockey team was ranked as high as No. 10 in the country. This came after going 4-0 against both FSU and UF, beating them twice and then coming away with the club’s first ever victory against UCF, a national powerhouse in roller hockey. “UCF was ranked No. 3 when we beat them, being able to do that for the first time ever was a high point in a sea-

son full of them,” said Armas, a finance major in his first year as president. Not only was the team able to compete and win games against some of the better teams in the nation, but it was also able to get completely new uniforms out of it as well. With the help of DuBord, associate director of club sports at the Wellness Center, and Micheal Borok, the club sports accountant and treasurer of the club baseball team, the roller hockey club was able to put together the money needed for new helmets, gloves and jerseys. “Mike, Alex and Brad were awesome,” DuBord said. “I am very proud of them.” All students have the opportunity to join the club, no matter what their level of experience is. “We accept any members, male or female, and we provide equipment,” Armas said. “We just want members to fall in love with the game, just as we have.” Ernesto Suarez may be contacted at esuarez@ themiamihurricane.com.

COURTESY ALEX LOPEZ

HOCKEY NIGHT IN SOUTH FLORIDA: UM’s goalie waits in front of the net for the puck during a 6-5 win over UCF.

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CLUB SPORTS

Equestrian team sends riders to nationals Club holds practice three days a week BY ERNESTO SUAREZ SENIOR SPORTS WRITER

COURTESY KATIE SICKLING

JUMPING WITH HORSES: Recent graduate Kristen Boisseau jumping at SCAD for the equestrian team.

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For the first time since the club was formed in the fall of 1997, the equestrian team sent two of its riders to the Intercollegiate Horse Show Association National Championships. Erika Dagum, a rising junior majoring in international finance and marketing, qualified for open flats. Jessica Warren, an alumna who majored in psychology, was also set to participate. They represented UM in Lexington, Ky. “It’s really exciting to be going up to compete in Nationals,” Dagum said. “I’m really thankful for the team and for our coach.” The equestrian team holds practice every Tuesday through Friday at Tally Ho Farm, though riders choose which days and times they can practice according to their schedules. Here, they train by

riding on different horses and work on their equitation (body position) and practice how to navigate different horses. Although horseback riding season lasts all year, the team attends shows from October through March, about once or twice a month. The team does a lot of traveling for most shows, but also hosts an annual show at Tropical Park. It’s important for riders to get used to riding on as many horses as possible; when riders go to competition, they draw a number which corresponds to a horse they have never ridden before. Upon entering the ring, the stewardess gives different commands for the riders to perform, which are judged based on the rider’s body position and their command of the horse, but not necessarily on the attitude of the horse. Katie Sickling, former president of the team, sees a tremendous betterment for the future of the club. She attributes this improvement to team cohesion. “This year our team just came together; we had a great year,” she said. “The team is still pretty young though, so

we can keep getting better.” Warren believes that this new group can be something special. “There were a lot of new riders this year, a lot of new talent,” she said. “This team has a bright future in front of it.” Although many of the team members have been riding for most of their lives, the equestrian team is open to anyone who is interested, regardless of skill level. Practices are offered to those who are interested in learning and who have never ridden a horse before. “Anyone interested should definitely come out to meetings, come out and check out the barn,” Warren said. One of the goals for the club is to become more recognized, especially on campus. “Making nationals was a great accomplishment,” said rising sophomore Tara Reaves, who will be president of the team next year. “Hopefully this will put our name out there and generate some interest in the team.” Ernesto Suarez may be contacted at esuarez@ themiamihurricane.com.

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MASCOT PROFILE

Two mascots, one goal: Get fans pumped

BRITTNEY BOMNIN // File Photo

STEVEN STUTS // First Impression

SCHOOL SPIRIT: Sebastian the Ibis (left) attends all football games and shows up for other UM events. The Miami Maniac is the baseball team’s mascot.

Sebastian the Ibis, Miami Maniac rep the U BY KELSEY PINAULT CONTRIBUTING SPORTS WRITER

When you go to Sun Life Stadium to watch University of Miami football this fall, you're bound to see a big, loveable bird- Sebastian the Ibis- leading the crowd in Hurricane cheers. If you catch a University of Miami baseball next spring, however, you'll soon realize Alex Rodriguez Park at Mark Light Field is a no-f ly zone for Sebastian. Instead, a curious-looking creature named the Miami Maniac rules the turf. UM is one of the few schools in the country that has two high-profile team mascots. The older and more prominent of the two is Sebastian the Ibis, who

regularly appears at athletic events except baseball, as well as many student activities on campus. Sebastian landed on campus in 1957 as an entry in a homecoming competition. He quickly caught on as the team mascot for about 25 years. That's when legendary UM baseball coach Ron Fraser decided his championship-caliber teams needed their own mascot. As a result, the Miami Maniac was born. What really made the Maniac so popular was the man inside the costume. John Routh, a University of South Carolina graduate, was hired in 1982 after being recognized for his unique talent of amping up the fans. During his time as a Gamecock cheerleader, Routh was selected two years in a row as the College World Series official mascot. Routh was delighted to play the

Maniac. Part of the reason was the costume. “The old Sebastian costume didn't let you do much,” he recalled. “The head was papier-mâché at one point and weighed a ton, so it was hard to move around in.” Canes baseball fans quickly fell in love with his new look and on-the-field antics. Routh went on to perform as the Miami Maniac from 1983-1993; he also played Sebastian the Ibis from 19841992. The Maniac has become a mainstay around the ballpark, and not just with the fans. “The Maniac brings a lot to games,” freshman left-hander Ethan Borstein said. “I'm pretty sure it's safe to say that home games just wouldn't be the same without him.” Now, both mascots are so well established at UM that it's hard to have a favorite. SUMMER 2010

Students love the popular C-A-NE-S chant that Sebastian leads by forming the letters with his body. The Maniac is just as quirky, racing through the stands and hugging and kissing many a baseball fan. “They both are great mascots- good with kids and adults alike,” said Connie Nickel, assistant athletic director for events. “They both carry the spirit of the U exceptionally well.” Kelsey Pinault may be contacted at kpinault@themiamihurricane.com.

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SPORTS FEATURE

Student-athletes show their creative sides Theatre 101 a way to express themselves BY CHRISTINA DE NICOLA EDITOR IN CHIEF

On the football field, Jordan Futch intimidates opponents with his hard hits. But when it came time to take center stage at the Jerry Herman Ring Theatre, Futch shied away from showing off his hidden talent. “I sing really good,” he said. “But only in the shower.” Instead, he and six teammates – Allen Hurns, Stephen Morris, Shane McDermott, Tyrone Cornileus, Storm Johnson and Billy Sanders – simulated two-minute practice and game situations for their classmates. Morris, an early enrollee who will serve as one of the team’s backup quarterbacks, came up with the idea. In a 5-on-2 drill, he brought the offense into a huddle and called plays such as 85, 4, NASCAR. “We figured it was the easiest thing,” Futch said. “We wanted to show people behind the scenes how it really goes and how we get in

the huddle and things like that.” Five years ago professor Patricia Dolan thought up the idea to hold a “Golden Extra Credit” i n her Introduction to Theatre (THA101) course to close out the semester. Students’ talents range from singing to dancing, but a performance

JORDAN FUTCH BRITTNEY BOMNIN // First Impression

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doesn’t hold any actual grade value. According to Dolan, “It’s worth its weight in gold.” “It’s just a way to bring a kind of energy into what it is to perform in front of another person, an audience,” Dolan said. “Everyone in my class has multiple talents. You never know who’s in the room either. Sometimes in this little discovery I find a hidden piano talent or a singer.” Over the years she’s seen a football player, unbeknownst to teammates and coaches, sing opera. Another, Curtis Porter, played the piano. “When students see them actually get up here and perform, sometimes out of their element, the audience understands and enjoys watching the athlete showing another side of them,” Dolan said. “The next time they watch those particular players they’re going to remember a small little moment here.” Porter took the course as an early enrollee last spring. New to both the university and his teammates, he embraced the opportunity. “I needed a few more points in class to pass and I wanted to show others another talent God has blessed me with,” Porter said. So, the gentle giant – all 6-1, 315 pounds of him that tackles the opposing football team on a weekly basis – performed Hoagy Carmichael’s

“Heart and Soul.” Since the eighth grade Porter has played the piano. His “true love,” however, lies with his rare bass back home in Charlotte. In the same class, women’s basketball player Shenise Johnson read some of her poetry. Men’s basketball head coach Frank Haith also enjoys the fact that his student-athletes interact with their classmates. He believes that it helps them become better acclimated with the college environment and experience. “I encourage that. The students are such an important role in terms of what we do,” Haith said. “I think that it’s great that their peers see them in a different light, see them just being normal people.” Like many of his classmates, Futch wasn’t too familiar with theater until he took the course and learned about its elements, such as set design and music. “I just wanted to widen up my horizons and see other things,” said Futch, who is a business marketing and management major. “Maybe after football I might do what Dwayne Johnson did and follow his path.” Christina De Nicola may be contacted at cdenicola@ themiamihurricane.com.

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MHMC- Commercial Template Doc Size 11.25” X 14”

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FIRST IMPRESSION

SUMMER 2010

MAGENTA YELLOW BLACK