January 29, 2016 | The Miami Student

ESTABLISHED 1826 – OLDEST COLLEGE NEWSPAPER WEST OF THE ALLEGHENIES

The Miami Student FRIDAY, JANUARY 29, 2016 Volume 144 №28

Miami University — Oxford, Ohio

MIAMISTUDENT.NET

Surge in arrests, hospitalizations linked to ‘rush’ GREEK LIFE

EMILY TATE

MANAGING EDITOR

REIS THEBAULT EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Greek recruitment has gotten off to a troubling start this semester, as the university and the Greek governing councils linked a spike in arrests and hospitalizations

‘The Great Blizzard of ’78’ revisited

earlier this week with the concurrent fraternity “rush.”

The hospitalizations — which the president of Miami’s Panhellenic Association estimated to be more than 20 from Sunday and Monday nights alone — have prompted a conversation about the current state of Miami’s Greek life, which has seen three chapters sus-

pended in the last year.

In an email to all sorority presidents, Panhellenic president Elizabeth Nelsen encouraged members of the organizations to “stop to think why we are Greek.”

She said that recent incidents are indicative of a larger problem in Miami’s Greek community.

“Our community is cur-

rently battling an extremely severe situation that has unfortunately also become our norm,” wrote Nelsen, a junior. “Nothing about this situation is normal.”

In that email, she said the Blood Alcohol Contents of three students were recorded between .245 and .3 — levels considered to be just drinks away from “life threaten-

ing,” according to the National Institute of Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism.

Nelsen wrote that, during the first two days of fraternity recruitment, 23 people were taken to the hospital.

Though she later said that number was rumored, both Miami and the Interfraternity Council (IFC) acknowledged that several arrests and hos-

Vigil held for three deceased professors

pitalizations stemmed from fraternity recruitment.

Between Saturday and Monday, the Oxford Police Department reported at least five arrests for liquor violations, one of which led to a hospitalization. All five were Miami University students — four of which were male, GREEK »PAGE 9

Students struggle back to campus through snow

HISTORY

WEATHER

OLIVIA OVERMOYER

MAGGIE CALLAGHAN

Miami University senior Larry Schachter sat with his roommates in their offcampus apartment as snow piled up outside.

“We ventured out into the street, and you wouldn’t see a car come down for five minutes,” Schachter said.

The men’s basketball team, however, was unaware that conditions were so bad in the western part of Ohio while they piled onto the bus after a big win at the University of Toledo.

“There was really no effective method of communication so it all kind of travelled by word of mouth that everybody should stay inside and classes were cancelled,” Schachter recalled.

While they began their long trek home on the evening of Wednesday, Jan. 25, 1978, the snowfall picked up speed, and soon it was impossible to travel any further due to the large quantities of snow and ice covering the road.

“They were all very, very concerned,” said head coach Darrell Hedric.

“Most of the guys were sleeping, and when they woke up, they saw that no one was moving,” After asking the bus driver to take the closest exit off of the highway, the team ended up in Vandalia. As they pulled into town, they saw the lights of a local latenight doughnut shop. Seeking a telephone, a few of the coaching staff ventured off the bus and into the store.

The coaches explained their predicament and the local police officers enjoying a late-night snack came up with a plan. They opened up the local courthouse and jail to the team as shelter from the storm.

“We piled in, and wandered around trying to find a place to sleep,” said assistant coach Joe Barry.

Not everyone on the bus found the cells to be comfortable, however. One of

Leap of Faith His family roots drove him to a growing passion for the environment. “[My parents] came from rural India, farming villages, and the connection between the environment and livelihood is so dispersal,” he

Lucy Fox woke up early last Friday morning to find 4 inches of snow already covering the ground outside her home. The sophomore’s plans to return to Oxford on Friday from Nashville were derailed because of this storm and she had to wait until Saturday.

Only 10 minutes into her trip from Nashville, Fox noticed cars lining the side of the unpaved interstate.

Then, just minutes later, her car spun 180 degrees into a ditch.

“We weren’t going very fast, but I guess we hit a spot of ice or slushy snow,” said Fox, who was a passenger at the time.

Like Fox, many Miami University students had trouble returning to Oxford this past weekend because of the historic Blizzard “Jonas.” The blizzard stretched through a large portion of country, sweeping through the South, Mid-Atlantic and Northeast corridors from Thursday all the way through Sunday.

This storm has left at least 48 people dead and many more still stranded in their homes. A record 26.8 inches fell in Central Park according to the National Weather Service, and states such as Maryland and Virginia experienced the most snow that has ever been recorded in those states.

Virginia Bulger, first-year from Herndon, Virginia, witnessed the storm’s power firsthand.

“It didn’t stop for 36 hours,” said Bulger. “I woke up Sunday and my car was hidden.”

Students were forced to make tough decisions about returning to Oxford because of the storm’s intensity and strength. Aly Wong, a sophomore from Cleveland, was deciding between returning on Saturday or Sunday.

“The storm definitely made us lean toward Sunday … [My dad] doesn’t

SAMY »PAGE 5

SNOW »PAGE 5

THE MIAMI STUDENT

1978 »PAGE 4

SENIOR STAFF WRITER

IAN MARKER THE MIAMI STUDENT

A group led by Miami’s Association of Black Faculty & Staff honored three African-American professors — Adrian Gaskins, Augustus “Gus” Jones and Heanon Wilkins — who died in the past two months.

MEMORIAL

GRACE MOODY NEWS EDITOR

A vigil was held yesterday in the Armstrong Student Center to honor Adrian Gaskins, Augustus “Gus” Jones and Heanon Wilkins — three African-American professors who have died within the past two months.

Gaskins, a professor of American Studies and Black World Studies, died over the winter term, and Jones, a political science professor, died unexpectedly Dec. 3.

Wilkins retired from Miami in 1992 and died Dec. 16. He was Miami’s first tenured track AfricanAmerican professor, and the Heanon Wilkins Faculty Fellowship was created in his name. Gaskins joined Miami as a Heanon Wilkins fellow in 2008.

The vigil began when Morrel Wax, president of Miami’s Association of Black Faculty & Staff (ABFAS), led a group through the Armstrong Student Center, holding a sign that read, “In loving memory, gone

but never forgotten.”

The group then stood on the stage, each holding a sign with words such as “scholar,” “educator,” “Political Science” and “professor.”

Rodney Coates, director of Miami’s Black World Studies program in the Department of Global and Intercultural Studies, spoke to the crowd at the vigil.

“The Miami tradition is no longer reflected in the lives of three of our colleagues,” Coates said.

“These three scholars, who

represent the epiphany of what Miami is about, geniuses that for over 20 years — 30 years in some cases — dedicated their lives to students, oftentimes overcoming obstacles of indifference and overcoming obstacles of ignorance.”

Coates closed by saying, “What made each of them so wonderful is that not only did they embrace their scholarship and exude humility, but they had this warmth and love and so therefore we celebrate their lives here at Miami.”

Alum named to Forbes ‘30 Under 30’ ALUMNI

ABIGAIL KELLY

THE MIAMI STUDENT

Miami alumnus Kevin Samy (’09) was named to Forbes’ “30 Under 30” for his professional success as a speechwriter for environmental and climate change policy. Samy, 28, was one of 600 honorees for “30 under 30,” and received the award in the Law & Policy category.

However, a successful career in public service was not Samy’s intention when

he started at Miami in 2005.

Instead, the past 10 years has been a long journey of creating and recreating his own game plan.

The Original Game “There was so much that went into my decision to go to school at Miami that revolved around football,” Samy recalled.

The Canton, Ohio native was recruited as a defensive linebacker for the RedHawks with the dream of playing professionally after graduation. That dream was abrupt-

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WITHROW COURT TENANTS DISPLACED

BELOVED PROFESSOR DIES OVER WINTER TERM

As demolition nears, club sports teams continue search for new homes.

Adrian Gaskins, American Studies and Black World Studies, died over break.

ly ended by an injury early in his second season.

Six months after the injury and two surgeries later, Samy finally had to come to terms with finding a new path.

“I was no longer ‘Kevin the football player,’” he said.

But Samy decided to see his situation as an opportunity.

“It was really a moment for me to focus on not football, and I got to think critically about other life options,” said Samy.

He continued his Miami career by focusing on his accounting courses. However,

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throughout his junior year, he had the frightening realization that he was in a major he did not want to make into a career, and it was too late to change his degree.

OPINION p. 6

SPORTS p. 10

THE ‘STUDENT’ STAFF PICKS ITS TOP MOVIES

EDITORIAL BOARD: GREEK SYSTEM IN NEED OF REFORM

BASKETBALL TEAM NEARING HISTORIC LOSING STREAK

The rankings are in, the people have spoken: find out which movies the staff loved.

Panhellenic president agrees, calling on her fellow Greek life members to shape up.

The team has lost 10 in a row, approaching a bottom-feeding status not seen since the 193233 team lost 12 straight.

2 NEWS

FRIDAY, JANUARY 29, 2016

NEWS@MIAMISTUDENT.NET

FDA proposes banning minors from tanning beds HEALTH

TESS SOHNGEN

SENIOR STAFF WRITER

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a proposal restricting minors from sunlamp products like tanning beds on Dec. 22, 2015.

The proposal comes in response to findings that early exposure to tanning beds results in higher risk of melanoma, a form of skin cancer. Melanoma especially affects users under 18 years old, according to The Skin Cancer Foundation. Another study published in JAVA Dermatology on Jan. 20 found that teenagers using indoor tanning are at higher risks of substance abuse.

“What is really frightening, and that most people don’t realize, is that high intensity UVR [ultraviolet radiation], such as that from tanning beds, causes direct chemical modification of your DNA in your skin cells,” said Rick Page, an assistant professor at the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry at Miami University.

Whether the damaged DNA results in a minor or major problem, like melanoma, is up to chance, said Page.

“There really isn’t such a thing as ‘safe’ UVR,” said Page. “Any

UVR exposure has the chance of causing DNA damage. The key is to limit your exposure.”

Fifty-nine percent of college students and 17 percent of teens in the United States reported using a tanning bed at least once, according to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD).

Caucasian teenagers and young women make up 70 percent of tanning salon customers, according to the AAD, and have increasing rates of melanoma. A study in Minnesota found that the number of first cases of melanoma for people 18 to 39 years old increased eight-fold for women — double the increase for males.

“I tanned a lot more in high school, but I realize it’s bad for my health,” said junior Katie Tullis. “I try and limit it to a couple times a year.”

Tullis has gone to Palm Beach Tan in Oxford for the past few months and has also gone to Attitudes Uptown for indoor tanning.

She said she uses indoor tanning only before she travels somewhere warm to avoid burning from direct UV rays from the sun.

Attitudes Uptown requires parent permission for minors before they can use an indoor tanning bed, which will become a legal

JENNIFER MILLS THE MIAMI STUDENT

Due to research that shows early exposure to tanning beds leads to high risk of melanoma, the FDA hopes to restrict minors from using sunlamp products. requirement in Ohio in March.

“I personally wouldn’t want my child to [tan indoors],” said Kristi Abrams, a stylist who has worked at Attitudes Uptown for five years. “But I honestly think it should be up to the parent or guardian.”

Attitudes Uptown follows the Ohio State Board of Cos-

Withrow Woes: Club Sports forced to move pending building demolition Students and community members struggle to find a replacement for the facility ATHLETICS

“Withrow Court was built back in the 1930s and needed millions SOPHIE WHORF THE MIAMI STUDENT of dollars worth of upgrades,” Cady said. “It was going to cost For senior Jake Cottingim, too much money to repair Withbeing president of Miami’s row, so the final decision was to Weightlifting Club has made tear it down.” his Miami experience.

Cady says the varsity ten“I love it because, like any nis, golf and baseball teams, other club sport, you can which were originally connect with people with based out of Withrow, have similar interests.” found temporary homes.

However, with the pending Although Miami’s club sports demolition of Withrow Court, programs will soon have a which currently serves as a prac- new place to call home as well, tice facility for approximately 25 many teams are disheartened of Miami’s 50 club sports teams, by the demolition, as it will demany organizations like the stroy much more than just an Weightlifting Club will be per- 85-year-old structure. manently displaced by the end of “Everyone is upset the gym is this school year. being torn down because it repre“I was really disappointed sents a culture and a home base,” that Miami isn’t building an- said Cottingim. “That gym holds other space like that,” said a lot of memories. There are reCottingim. “They’re giving cords and signatures written on us the Chestnut Field House, the walls by past members and but it’s not the same.” presidents. It has a lot of sentiSenior Lindsay Schweitzer mental value.” agrees. Schweitzer is the current The Weightlifting Club will president of the Gymnastics Club transition to the Chestnut Field and has been an active participant House, which is located near the since her freshman year. old Talawanda High School. The “We were fighting [the demoli- Gymnastics Club will move to tion of Withrow] from the start,” Sawyer Hall, an abandoned waresaid Schweitzer. house behind Peabody Hall on Steve Cady, senior associ- Western Campus. ate athletic director, said WithSchweitzer credits Mike Arnos, row — a building that lacks air senior director of programs & conditioning and needed heat- academic partnerships at the Recing and plumbing repairs — reation Center, with assisting the was beyond reconstruction. club sports in finding new homes

and making the adjustment as seamless as possible.

Schweitzer says Arnos found homes for club sports in Phillips Hall, the Chestnut Field House and the new Dauch Indoor Sports Center near Yager Center.

“Mike Arnos has been very communicative throughout the whole process,” said Schweitzer.

“He’s been working with us for the past few years.”

Cottingim, however, wasn’t as satisfied with the new displacements, noting how they aren’t as centrally located as Withrow Court.

“A lot of students like Withrow because of its prime location,” said Cottingim. “It is very close to where the kids live on campus.”

Schweitzer, on the other hand, displayed optimism about her team’s transition to Sawyer Hall.

“They’re planning on starting renovations soon,” said Schweitzer. “It will be a little crammed, but we’ll make it ours.”

Miami club sports teams haven’t officially been removed from Withrow quite yet. Both the Weightlifting Club and the Gymnastics Club will continue to hold practice in the historical gymnasium until the end of April.

“We’ll definitely miss it,” said Schweitzer. “It’s been my home for four years. Thankfully, I don’t have to be there for the transition.”

TYLER PISTOR THE MIAMI STUDENT

Without Withrow Court, many club sports teams and community programs are lacking adequate space for their activities.

metology by requiring their patrons wear protective eyewear and sign a waiver before they use a tanning bed.

The proposal from the FDA also includes new safety regulations for indoor tanning, such as requiring users’ signature of risk acknowledgment associated with indoor tanning.

“I know high schoolers I went to school with are already dealing with skin cancer, and that’s a huge issue that we actually need to look out for,” said Tullis.

The public has until March 22 to comment on the proposal before the FDA decides whether to publish it as a rule in the Federal Register.

Super PAC educates, brings awareness of student debt POLITICS

TESS SOHNGEN

SENIOR STAFF WRITER

The Student Debt Reform Political Action Committee (SDR PAC) from Chicago extended to Miami University last semester to raise awareness for student debt reform and super PACs. The bipartisan, non-profit PAC promotes legislation that allows students to refinance their student loans and advocates for officials who support making college more affordable.

Such political figures include Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D) from Massachusetts and presidential candidate Sen. Marco Rubio (R) from Florida.

Sophomore Colin Mackintosh from DePaul University founded the SDR PAC in January 2015 after his political science class inspired him to become more active in political and student affairs.

“Our main goals are educating people and making students more aware,” said Mackintosh. “This year we’re going through more fundraising and advertising.”

Mackintosh’s mother and uncles grew up poor and worked their way through college and into their careers. Today, his mother is a teacher who watches her own students try to do what she did.

“Now, you can’t really do that … you have to take out student loans,” said Mackintosh. “That’s a huge weight around your ankles when you graduate.”

Miami student James Guilfoyle is the financial consultant for SDR PAC, and hopes to start promoting the organization in the next month. Internet promotions will start at Miami as well as DePaul, and billboards will also go up in Chicago this semester.

He said support for the super PAC has already exceeded expectations, and he expects the number of donations to SDR PAC to surpass $8,000 by the end of next month. Most small donations have come from students, but non-students have also contributed larger donations.

Guilfoyle and junior Addison Caruso, the political consultant for SDR PAC, seek to expand the awareness of student loans and super PACs to Miami this semester primarily through

educating students.

Fifty-three percent of Miami students graduated with student loans in 2014, and the average debt of graduates in 2015 was $28,887, said Brent Shock, director of Student Financial Services.

The average debt at graduation at Miami increased 34.2 percent from 2004 to 2014, below the Ohio and national average debt increase of 53 percent and 56.1 percent respectively.

“I think it is very possible we will see loan debt increase because of the winter term,” said Shock.

He said that he and Miami’s staff have been working hard to keep costs as low as possible and

Being able to refinance student loans is an important issue collectively among college students ... it sets the stage for the future for myself and other students.

BOBBY ROBAINA DEPAUL UNIVERSITY

increasing the number of scholarships provided to students.

Bobby Robaina, a political science student at DePaul University and political consultant for SDR PAC, became involved in the organization through a professor’s recommendation, and said that he will continue to work with SDR PAC. “I’m now a senior at college, and I recognize that student debt is an issue for myself and all my classmates,” said Robaina. “Being able to refinance student loans is an important issue collectively among college students … it sets the stage for the future for myself and other students.”

Guilfoyle said he would encourage a super PAC to students.

“I would encourage more people to look into starting a super PAC because there’s something that can end in change,” said Guilfoyle.

NEWS@MIAMISTUDENT.NET

Beloved friend, colleague, professor dies over break NEWS EDITOR

JEFF SABO MU MARKETING

Adrian Gaskins started his career at Miami in 2008. A former student, senior Craig Byll, described him as, “not only a great professor, mentor, advisor and role model, but as a genuine friend.” admired Gaskins’ commitment to taking students on these trips.

“He certainly lived his life in terms of taking on adventures and fostering citizens of the world, no matter how complex the planning,” Brown wrote. “His commitment to internationalism/global studies permeated his pedagogy and real life.”

Ron Becker, an associate professor in the Media, Journalism and Film Department, worked with Gaskins on a committee to propose a new co-major in the Global and

Intercultural Studies Department.

“Right when we began the committee work in the fall, he was dealing with the death of his mother, and even though I’m sure that was a really tough time for him, he was always engaged fully,” Becker said.

Gaskins will be greatly missed by Miami students and faculty, he said.

“He was probably the most sweet and generous faculty member,” Becker said. “Adrian’s commitment to students at Miami was tremendous.”

Virtual honors society finds its way to Miami’s campus through email MARY SCHROTT

SENIOR STAFF WRITER

Scholastic achievement is recognized in various ways at Miami University. Awards, scholarships, the Dean’s List and even the President’s Lists are offered to academically successful students.

Aside from Miami-specific recognition, many students are also contacted by outside honors societies through email and letters.

While many students receive invitations to various honors societies, few take the time to respond.

But last summer, senior Christine Broda found herself on a listserv from the Society for Collegiate Leadership and Achievement (SCLA) and decided to reply.

“I was curious and emailed back inquiring why they had gotten my email,” said Broda.

The email she received asked Broda to consider fostering a chapter of SCLA on Miami’s campus.

SCLA is a national honors society that “honors students’ achievement and empowers them to be the leaders of tomorrow.”

There are upwards of 135 SCLA chapters across the country that, according to the group’s website, “aim to maximize student potential through our powerful, customized skills development platform, vibrant mentor and peer community and competency-based certification.”

Broda said SCLA reached out to her because of her senator position with Associated Student Gov-

UNIVERSITY SENIOR STAFF WRITER

GRACE MOODY

ACADEMICS

Winter term student enrollment continues to rise LAURA FITZGERALD

DEATH

Adrian Gaskins, a lecturer in the Department of Global and Intercultural Studies at Miami University, died over winter term.

His colleagues were informed of his death Jan. 8.

Gaskins joined Miami in 2008 and conducted research on the African Diaspora, American Studies, critical race theory and popular culture. He worked at Dartmouth College and the University of Virginia prior to his career at Miami.

Gaskins received his B.A. at the University of Kentucky and his M.A. at Michigan State University. At the time of his death, he was a Ph.D. candidate at the University of Minnesota.

One of his former students, senior Craig Byll, described Gaskins in a statement as a remarkable figure both in and out of the classroom.

“I can say he truly impacted my college career by altering the way I thought about learning,” Byll said.

“Dr. Gaskins taught me that the human condition is inextricably linked to the quest for knowledge, and that true compassion should be universally expressed.”

Tammy Brown, an assistant professor in the Global and Intercultural Studies Department, wrote a statement about Gaskins.

“Adrian’s excellence as a teacher, generosity of spirit and good humor will be sorely missed,” Brown wrote. “He lived in the present moment and knew how to laugh.”

Gaskins was a co-director of the Americans Abroad summer program in Paris and London. Brown said she

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FRIDAY, JANUARY 29, 2016

ernment and her high GPA. She decided to work with SCLA after speaking with them and is now the chapter president and founder of the Miami University chapter of SCLA. “For SCLA, the requirement is a 3.5 and what makes it different is the majority of work is virtual,” said Broda. “You’re not missing out if you don’t make a meeting.”

SCLA operates virtually by presenting members with various personality quizzes and connecting them to mentors around the country.

of Miami’s chapter of Phi Sigma Pi, another national honors fraternity.

“There are a couple things that I think are good benefits for having some connection on campus like an honors fraternity,” said Clements.

Though SCLA is new to campus and plans to have several physical meetings after more members are gained, established honors fraternities like Phi Sigma Pi offer many events for its members.

“We are always working on fellowship, like by having an

It’s like an online class, only an honors society. I already feel like I have all these connections.

Miami University students expressed mixed emotions about winter term as enrollment hit record numbers and the College of Arts and Science introduced a new deadline for faculty submitting study abroad and away programs.

Sophomore Megan Carroll stayed home for the winter term and did not take classes or study abroad because she said she was considering changing majors and did not know what to take.

Carroll said if she had not been deciding her major she would have taken classes and will probably take a class next year over winter term.

Winter term offers good opportunities for students who do take classes or study abroad, Carroll said, but for students who do not enroll, the break can feel long.

“I think it’s a good idea, but when you don’t take classes, it gets kind of old,” Carroll said.

Sophomore Angel Martinez took KNH 375, an online class.

The class met via webcam half of the week and had assignments due the other half.

Martinez transferred last semester from Northern Illinois University, where the winter break was four to five weeks. Martinez said he preferred the shorter winter break because he gets bored at home and prefers to end school earlier in May. Martinez said he took the class so he would not get bored at home.

The workload was so heavy and the class was so short, Martinez said.

He didn’t get a lot of value from the class because he felt he didn’t learn that much.

“I feel like it’s not really that useful if you’re not trying to go back and try to graduate on time,” Martinez said.

While students expressed mixed emotions, winter term continues to see increasing student enrollment.

In January 2014, Miami’s first winter term, 3,338 students enrolled in classes across all campuses, including Oxford, Hamilton, Middletown, Voice of America and Luxembourg. In 2015, that number increased to 4,379. This year, 4,903 students enrolled in classes, according to Phyllis Callahan, the Provost and Executive Vice President, indicating a 47 percent increase since the first year.

Of those students, 2,425 registered for classes online while 1,829 took a class on campus, according to Miami’s website. Approximately 650 students studied abroad or away.

There has also been a change in the way faculty submit proposals for study abroad and away programs, which may have an effect on the programs.

In previous years, faculty could submit study abroad and away

proposals on a rolling admission basis, meaning they could submit proposals as they were created.

However, Global Initiatives usually encouraged faculty to have proposals for the following summer and winter submitted by mid-spring semester of the previous year, said Erin Brandyberry, coordinator of Global Programs.

The College of Arts and Science (CAS) is launching a pilot program in which all CAS faculty must have their proposals for summer 2016 and winter 2017 study abroad and away programs submitted by Feb. 15. Brandyberry says the goal is to have all options for students available far in advance so they can make informed decisions.

“We hope that having an earlier program submission deadline will better help students know what programs will be offered so they can plan accordingly in order to facilitate that participation,” Brandyberry said.

Brandyberry said this probably won’t affect the number of programs being offered for next winter term.

The formal deadline also promotes collaboration between departments and programs, rather than competition as multiple professors try to get students to sign up for their course, said Patricia Newberry, senior lecturer in the Media, Journalism and Film department.

“The College of Arts and Sciences is pleased with these explosions of programs,” Newberry said. “But they don’t want people competing with each other and cannibalizing each other’s courses.”

Out of the nine study abroad and away programs in the MJF department, two are for the winter term, one of which, Inside Chicago, was introduced this winter. However Newberry said students have to pick which programs they are able to do, so competition can happen between winter and summer programs.

Other winter programs were still created elsewhere this winter term, such as a six-credit hour program in Cuba offered through the Farmer School of Business. Students learn about business and finance as relations with the country open up.

Newberry led NYC Media, a three-year-old study away program in which students completed two weeks of online coursework and six days in New York City, visiting 17 media organizations and interviewing 19 journalists.

Newberry said the course was long enough to give students a look into the world of New York City media, even if they couldn’t go into great depth.

“I think winter term courses are a deep and quick immersion into a topic,” Newberry said. “So, obviously, in three weeks you can’t learn everything about New York City media, but you can take a big bite to chew on.”

CHRISTINE BRODA SENIOR, SCLA PRESIDENT

“It’s like an online class, only an honors society,” said Broda. “I already feel like I have all these connections” SCLA is now operating on The Hub and will be recruiting members this spring. However, for some students, an online experience isn’t desirable.

“I was hesitant to join an honors society that wasn’t housed and had some connection to Miami,” said senior Grace Clements.

Clements is the acting president

intramural team or having a bonfire at a member’s house, so you can really get to know one another,” said Clements.

Both SCLA and Phi Sigma Pi require a new member fee and semester dues to be considered an active member.

“People do get emails [from Phi Sigma Pi] saying ‘Oh, you qualified,’ but you don’t pay any dues or fees until after you completed a semester-long induction. It’s a competitive process,” said Clements.

AJ NEWBERRY THE MIAMI STUDENT

Since its start in January 2014, Miami’s winter term has increased enrollment by 47 percent — from 3,338 students the inaugural year, to 4,903 students this year.

TMS ONLINE M I A M I S T U D E N T . N E T

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PERELMBK@MIAMIOH.EDU

Humans oƒ Oxford

Staff votes on best movies of 2015

Lizzie Docel — Falling in love with Miami again and again PEOPLE

FILM

EMMA SHIBLEY

We polled senior staff writers, Culture staff writers and editors to find out which movies of 2015 were the favorites among Miami Student staff. Of the over 40 films submitted on individual lists, these were the 10 that came out on top.

THE MIAMI STUDENT

Lizzie Docel is back for her final semester in Oxford. It’s not bittersweet — not yet. For the time being, it feels a bit like an obligation.

“I’ve made my peace with leaving,” Lizzie says.

After all, she has a job waiting after graduation. She’ll soon have four years of crazy and wonderful undergrad adventures in the books.

And she already knows what saying “goodbye” to Miami is like.

Two years ago, Lizzie began what she thought was her final term as a RedHawk.

In the fall of her junior year, Lizzie studied acting at New York University. She wasn’t “studying away.” She had officially transferred to NYU, eager to earn a degree in drama and leave the Farmer School of Business 642 miles behind her.

But, as she puts it, Lizzie had two years of business school floating around in her head. She has always sought a personal balance of left and right brain pursuits.

She wasn’t really satisfied studying marketing at Miami, but she wasn’t satisfied living and breath-

1. “Spotlight”

In a year that saw me attend just three movies in theaters, I made sure to get to this one. Perhaps my intended profession makes me biased, but it was one of the best movies I’ve seen in a while.

It didn’t glorify the bootstrap reporting that the Spotlight team did, nor did it seek to elevate any particular character to a star role.

In this way, I think it portrayed perfectly the dynamics of the Iteam at the “Globe” — they work as a team and it’s not always sexy, but they get a damn good story.

It also did a good job of rekindling the Catholic Church’s mass cover-up, something that passed through the public conscious all too quickly after Pope Francis took over. (Reis Thebault, editorin-chief)

COLIN SHIMROCK THE MIAMI STUDENT

ing an actor’s dreams in New York, either.

She transferred back to Miami after one semester with a new drive to prove herself.

Back in Oxford, she was quickly swept up in recruiting new Chi Omega sisters and practicing improv with Sketched Out. She took 20 credit hours and proclaimed herself a “book hermit.”

By December of her senior year, she had booked a flight to Ann Ar-

bor, Michigan for a second-round interview with Google.

Lizzie’s Google career begins next January. Until then, she hopes to travel, start playing guitar and finally learn to drive on the highway.

“I can just …” she pauses, trying to find the right words. “I can just be present in Oxford this semester for the first time in three years. I don’t have to worry about what’s coming next. It’s already set.”

2. “Star Wars: The Force Awakens”

Arguably the most anticipated film of the year, “Force awakens” delivered on unprecedented levels. It was fun, fast-paced and heartbreaking, and maintained the quality of the franchise’s beloved originals. The new trio (Daisey Ridley, John Boyega and Oscar Isaac) held their own against the older cast and gifted us with new desert scavenging, spaceship-stealing heroes to love. (Kirby Davis, Culture staff writer)

Free group fitness week finds success

3. “Room”

Out of all the movies I’ve seen this year, “Room” was the only one where I could feel my heart in my chest while watching. Not only is the storyline thrilling, but the creativity behind the characters and their situation makes it worthy of its Academy Award nomination. This movie gives you everything you want — mystery, fear, thrill, love and a very satisfying ending that takes you deep into the characters’ lives.

(Mary Schrott, senior staff writer)

JENNIFER MILLS THE MIAMI STUDENT

Miami students take advantage of free group fitness classes at the Rec this week by attending classes like spinning, Zumba and kickboxing.

RECREATION

MEGAN BOWERS

SENIOR STAFF WRITER

In room 275 of Upham Hall, first-year Sarah Martin sits anxiously on the edge of her seat, counting down the minutes until her sociology class ends so she can go to Vinyasa Yoga.

In correspondence with the first week back after winter break, the Recreation Center is hosting Free Fitness Week. This means all group fitness classes are free, everything from strength training to cardio.

“It’s our way to say thank you to the students, welcome them back and show them what services we provide,” said Olivia Ellis, director of group fitness. “It gives them a look at what they are in for the rest of the semester.”

Martin has been practicing yoga since her sophomore year of high school and found the free classes to be the perfect way to kick-start the semester.

“It was a hard first day because you are getting back into the routine,” said Martin. “But as soon as

I got there I felt relaxed because I could leave my stresses at the door and take a mental break while also getting a good workout in.”

Many students try group fitness classes during the first week in an effort to relieve stress and let out energy. The fact that the classes are free is an added bonus, one that tends to raise attendance and often can alter the typical class layout.

“I try to be prepared for beginners,” said Vinyasa Yoga instruc-

4. “Inside Out”

While all Pixar movies are meant to be enjoyed by all ages, “Inside Out” might be the first that is actually more accessible to adults than to the children they bring to see it. Hidden among all the clever personifications of our emotions and mental processes is a bittersweet tale about what it means to grow up. Older viewers will see their own development and loss of youthful joy mirrored in Riley’s personal struggles. If nothing else, “Inside Out” teaches us to not run from sadness, but to accept and appreciate our entire emotional spectrum. (Devon Shuman, senior staff writer)

FREE FITNESS »PAGE 5

A look back — The Great Blizzard of 1978 FROM 1978 »PAGE 1

the players, Randy Ayers, was able to find a different sort of accommodation.

“They put him up in the court room and he slept on the judge’s stand,” Hedric recalled.

As it turned out, though, the snow was not the only danger the team would face that night.

“No sooner had we settled down, than the bus driver had a heart attack,” said Hedric.

As the basketball team faced one obstacle after another, the Oxford campus celebrated their unexpected four-day weekend.

Sales of alcohol rose as students piled into the local bars.

Those who didn’t care to face the snow stayed inside and relied on the limited technology of the day and the company of friends to get them through the storm.

“We had three television channels, so it’s not like we had a lot of television to watch, so we listened to records,” said Schachter.

Students celebrated several days of canceled classes because of the blizzard, but other facets of student life were in danger of closing, as well.

“People couldn’t get to work, so the kids were working in the dining halls,” recalled Schachter.

The students on campus weren’t the only ones stepping up. A local retirement home in

Vandalia was in need of help after days of snow left them shortstaffed.

“We were able to lend a hand and make it a positive experience,” said Barry.

The team helped change bed sheets, shave the residents’ faces and keep the residents company.

After a few days, travel became possible again and the team finished the journey back to Oxford.

“The team was close already, but I think it brought them closer,” said Barry.

The 1978 men’s basketball team finished their season with an overall record of 19-9 and ended up winning the MAC in a big upset against Marquette.

5. “Brooklyn”

In a year of great films, “Brooklyn” was perfection. The story, about an Irish immigrant who moves to New York City in the 1950s, may seem simple, but Nick Hornby’s adaptation is so beautifully crafted it doesn’t mat-

ter. Irish actress Saoirse Ronan takes on a role that mirrors her own life with such poise, and the chemistry between she and her two male co-stars is undeniable. With beautiful cinematography and a soaring soundtrack, “Brooklyn” is for anyone who has ever longed for home, been torn between family and first love, or gone through the wonderful and terrible process of growing up. (Britton Perelman, managing/culture editor)

6. “The Martian”

Matt Damon excels as an astronaut left for dead on Mars after a planned mission goes wrong.

He’s got to find a way to communicate with Earth to let NASA know he’s alive, and does so with smarts and wit. Based on a book of the same title by Andy Weir and helmed by Ridley Scott, the flick is touted as the most realistic space film ever made. And it’s funny. (Megan Zahneis, senior staff writer)

7. “Mad Road”

EMAIL PERELMBK@MIAMIOH.EDU

Fury

“Mad Max: Fury Road” doesn’t care if you’re keeping up with it, or if you’re just being dragged around in the dust. An instant classic, George Miller’s return to the post-apocalypse is a thereand-back-again story on chromed inhalants, flying through the deserts and dust storms at breakneck speeds, but remaining visually comprehensive all along. It is the best editing of the year, and possibly the decade. (Jack Ryan, senior staff writer)

8. “The Revenant”

A film that is as big as the legends that surround it, Alejandro G. Iñárritu and cinematographer Emmanuel Lubezki reunite in their follow up to their Oscarwinning “Birdman.” Composed of some of the most beautiful images of nature and primal human emotion, this two-and-a-half hour blockbuster is an epic art film that defies convention and defines the medium. Viewers who have cried out for Leonardo DiCaprio’s Oscar will exalt his fearless performance, big screen recommended. (A.J. Newberry, cartoonist)

9. “Me and Earl and the Dying Girl”

A beautiful and quirky story about life and friendships and what they all mean. The characters are so stereotypical and relatable — taking you back to the great awkwardness of high school, yet still completely original. It will have you laughing one minute and crying the next. (Alison Perelman, senior staff writer)

10. “Trainwreck”

“Trainwreck” was funny from the opening scene to the credits.

Amy Schumer’s brand of blunt, honest humor brought roaring laughter from the entire theater with every scene. With names like Judd Apatow and Bill Hader behind the project, I expected at least a few funny moments, but the energy stayed strong the entire runtime of the film. The most surprising part, though, was Lebron James’ superb comedic ability. With an all-star cast and a killer script, this movie was definitely one of the best of the year. (Olive Overmoyer, culture staff writer)

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FROM FREE FITNESS »PAGE 4

tor Scott Williams. “I want to give them a taste of what this yoga class is while still making it accessible to people who have never been in a yoga room before.”

The calming atmosphere of the yoga class encompasses you before you even step into the room allowing you to be at peace the entirety of the class.

Soothing music plays in the background and the wall of windows provides the unique opportunity to watch the sun rise or set over the course of the class.

Each of the fitness classes offers a similar feeling of belonging that causes many people to return the next week and pay full price.

“Our instructors get so excited seeing everyone,” said Ellis. “It is really neat to see the connections made between the instructors and the participants.”

The experience is incomparable in that it introduces students to types of fitness they wouldn’t have thought to explore previously.

“If I didn’t know exactly

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5

FRIDAY, JANUARY 29, 2016

what the class was, I probably wouldn’t pay for it,” said Martin. “But I am now considering buying a pass because I really liked the instructor.”

A single class could even lead to a lifelong passion.

“Free week is kind of hectic and not what we do all the time,” said Williams. “But I actually found out about yoga in a free week so I think it is a really good thing. People will try something they never have before.”

The students in Fitness Room B lay on their mats, completely still. The instructor talks to them softly, helping them get into the most comfortable position.

His voice eventually fades away, giving them the ability to soak in the music and let go of all stress and tension in their lives. They then lie at peace until the class comes to an end.

In stereotypical fashion, each student bows to the instructor and those around them before leaving, saying, “namaste.”

Every group fitness class at the Rec is free through Sunday.

FROM SNOW »PAGE 1

like the snow,” said Wong.

Travel has been a nightmare for those affected. Around 12,000 flights were cancelled last weekend because of the snow storm. One of those who experienced these cancellations was Miami sophomore Kylie Curtin.

Curtin, who is originally from New Jersey, was scheduled to come back to Oxford on Saturday. However, by Saturday morning, ‘Jonas’ had already dumped 30 inches in her area.

Due to major delays, Curtin was unable to leave until Monday afternoon.

“By Sunday night into Monday, I started getting a little anxious because I wasn’t sure if I was going to make it out by Monday night or even Tuesday, especially because I’d be missing a bunch of classes,” said Curtin.

Curtin was not the only student to miss class on Monday because of the storm. Bulger was unable to return to her dorm until Monday afternoon and had to miss her classes that day.

However, she said her professors were extremely understanding of the situation.

“My professors were really nice about it and wanted me back safely,” said Bulger.

Even with the storm, Miami did not change its policy on returning back to residence halls. As of right

now, students have to pay $22.50 in advance for every night that they plan to stay in their dorm room.

Students who do not make this request in advance have to pay $55 for every night. The dorms did not officially open until Sunday morning at 9 a.m.

Many students and parents have been left frustrated with this policy.

Meaghan Murtagh, a first-year, was not planning to return early from Boston, Massachusetts, but due to the storm, she came back to Miami two days early. Murtagh said her parents were mad they had to pay extra when her three other sisters have to pay nothing at their universities because the residence halls open two to three days early.

According to Brian Woodruff, the Director of Housing Options, Meals, and Events at Miami, students are charged for returning early because the residence hall room rates only cover the fall and spring semesters.

However, those who live in Heritage Commons are not charged this fee because they pay for the entire academic year.

Flights are gradually returning to their regular schedules.

However, schools affected by the storm were still cancelled on Tuesday, and many side roads have yet to be cleared.

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REBECCA FROST

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FROM SAMY »PAGE 1

said. “The idea that the rain comes is very much a part of quality of life.”

With a few hundred dollars a month from his parents, left the idea of accounting behind and started doing working internships at Washington, D.C. NGOs and the White House and crashing on friends’ couches before pursuing his Masters Degree from Yale University in Environmental Management.

Following his Masters, he returned to the White House to begin helping shape the climate change policy for President Obama’s 2012 campaign.

Following Dreams is Success As a speechwriter, Samy manages the input of many people who want to help shape the discussion of policy. After meeting with policy experts, his job is to create the narrative.

“No good speech is just a list of facts,” a mentor once told Samy. “It is narrative first, policy second.”

Forbes wrote that Samy “has helped shaped the narrative on policy issues throughout the executive branch.”

“You work really hard on a speech … And then, two days later, a newspaper article comes out.

So, in a way, I feel like I shaped the public discourse,” said Samy.

“So the news reporter and the people reading that paper, it is that ideation and that background process that I was managing.”

Even though accounting may have taken him on a more lucrative career path, Samy said he is very proud of the work he has done to be named a part of the “30 under 30” Samy said he hopes other Miami students will follow their passions, too.

“Get up doing what you love?

Man, I have been so lucky that I have been able to do that.”

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6 OPINION

FRIDAY, JANUARY 29, 2015

EDITORIAL@MIAMISTUDENT.NET

‘Our normal is not normal:’ Greek expectations, reality don’t match up EDITORIAL

Last Sunday kicked off fraternity recruitment. That night, 15 students were transported to the hospital. The next night, eight more hospitalizations followed.

Of these students, two had blood alcohol levels of .3.

Panhellenic president Elizabeth Nelsen said these alarming numbers are rumored, and are in the process of being confirmed. What’s known for sure, though, is Oxford’s police departments saw a spike in arrests and hospitalizations and linked this rise to Greek recruitment.

Nelsen cited these numbers in an email sent to all sorority chapter presidents on Monday, saying, “Our community is currently battling an extremely severe situation that has unfortunately also become our norm. Nothing about this situation is normal.”

Nelsen’s direct expression of disapproval toward the behavior of certain chapters is commendable.

However, the focus seems to be

The following piece, written by the editorial editors, reflects the majority opinion of the editorial board. more on protecting the reputation of Greek organizations rather than the safety of members.

Greek life is a powerful force at Miami, and many first-years spend fall semester waiting to join. They imagine wearing letters, attending parties and making friends. By the time recruitment rolls around and they are welcomed into their chapters, the excitement is tangible.

People want to celebrate, which almost always involves alcohol.

Many Greek organizations have strict anti-hazing rules — however, the pressure to drink is often not as obvious as the stereotypical fraternity president force-feeding alcohol to pledges or commanding them to chug more beer.

The pressure can be subtle and comes in many forms. It can be as simple as someone handing you a drink, then another and another.

You know you are more intoxicated than you should be, but you accept because you want to seem cool

and make a good first-impression.

Even good-intentioned statements like, “You don’t have to drink if you don’t want to,” or, “You can go home if you’re uncomfortable,” can come off as a challenge. The unspoken but understood subtext hidden between the lines of these offers is that if you don’t drink, people might judge. If you go home early, you will miss out on the fun.

And even if no one else is pushing you, you push yourself.

People have an innate desire to fit in, and the pressure to drink can happen to anyone in any group.

But for students participating in rush, this feeling is amplified.

When no one is actively trying to stop this phenomenon, things can get out of hand.

This stereotype is perpetuated by the media, which portrays college as a four-year-long episode of binge drinking. People think this is how they are supposed to behave, and the cycle continues.

We are not condemning Greek life alone. There are members of Greek organizations on our editorial board who have nothing but positive things to say about their experiences. Those of us who are not Greek have friends who love their chapters.

Yet, there is a trend here that cannot be ignored. For all the good Greek life does, there is also an overwhelming amount of evidence that it can pose problems. While a lot of other groups, like club sports and bands, also haze, and while college students not affiliated with Greek life also engage in high-risk drinking, no other type of organization attracts attention for incidents like Greek life does.

What’s most interesting is that despite the recent hospitalizations, recruitment at Miami continues this week. Why? Why do people value getting into a club more than they value their own wellbeing?

The Interfraternity Council

(IFC) press release claims, “The health and safety of the Greek community and the student body as a whole” are its No. 1 priority. But their actions don’t always support this sentiment.

“Something needs to change in order to maintain a viable Greek system that we as members of our organizations can be proud of,” Nelsen’s email reads. “At this point, we need to all stop to think why we are Greek.”

The ideas of “Greek values” or showing people “what it means to be Greek” are often used but extremely ambiguous phrases. It is, however, clear that being a member of any student organization should not put students in dangerous situations or pose a risk to their safety.

It’s time to challenge the absurd norms the system upholds.

IFC organizations are built on pillars of leadership, community and brotherhood. It’s time to start acting like it.

The curse of keeping up with Chicago news Despite exploitation, refugees continue search for safety LIFE

CARLEIGH TURNER WEB EDITOR

Leaving my school in downtown Chicago was one of the most difficult yet important decisions of my life.

In order to keep in touch with the happenings back home, I still follow various Chicago news outlets on Facebook and Twitter to get my daily dose of Chicago news.

However, I have recently contemplated unfollowing these news sources because of the incredible amount of violent content and news that quite literally hits close to home.

When I lived in Chicago, I found out about a stabbing and shooting just feet from my apartment after passively scrolling past a familiar street in a post from ABC 7 News’ Facebook page. Now, when I see a post about a shooting in Chicago, I hesitantly click the link and pray I don’t know anyone in the article.

The city I still love and have learned so much from looks different when you move 277 miles away.

The violence in Chicago has begun to garner media attention with the release of the film “Chiraq” and recent debates on gun control.

However, I believe the extent the violence reaches is impossible to imagine or portray in a film that lasts only 118 minutes.

The daily violence is documented by the Chicago Sun Times’ Homicide Watch where one may keep up with homicides in the Chicago area.

On Jan. 26 alone, there were six reported homicides.

According to the Chicago Tribune’s Crime in Chicagoland, Chicago Shooting Victims webpage, there have already been 244 shooting victims from Jan. 1 to Jan. 27, 2016

and 2,986 shooting victims from Jan. 1 2015 to Dec. 31, 2015 .

I am tired of opening up my Facebook newsfeed to body counts and mugshots.

Keeping up with the city’s violence is more heartbreaking than leaving it.

When I sit on my bed and look up at my Chicago Transit Authority EL maps, I understand how incredibly lucky I was to have never been personally affected by the violence of a city I called home for two years.

However, I never stopped anticipating violence.

Living in Oxford, Ohio, for a se-

Leaving Chicago has allowed me to truly understand the gravity of what is happening in the city and I didn’t know how to respond.

When you live in Chicago, violence is commonplace. Hearing faint echoes of gunshots and the rumbling of the EL are just part of the ambiance.

However, after separating myself, I now realize why my mother began calling hospitals and police stations when I did not answer my phone for five hours.

That being said, focusing on the violence in Chicago may be counterintuitive. Keeping up with Chicago

When I see a post about a shooting in Chicago, I hesitantly click the link and pray I do not know anyone in the article. mester has opened my eyes to what living in one of the more violent places in the country has done to me.

Walking home from classes at night, I still slip my keys between my index and middle finger and mentally practice the moves I learned from a self-defense class I took last year.

I still don’t like walking with headphones on because I was taught it can make you more vulnerable to an attack and I still get nervous watching everyone stare at their phones while they are walking. ‘Do they not know that is such an easy way to get mugged?’

Certainly they have seen the statistics, old Facebook photos and mugshots. However, these too can get numbing after a while. Headlines such as, “Man, 76, found shot to death in far south side home” begin to have little to no effect. That is incredibly frightening.

ultimately leads to keeping up with homicides in Chicago and I have begun to understand that many view the city as “Chiraq.” However, I refuse to see Chicago that way.

Being aware of the violence is important and I will continue to do so. I will also remind people that Chicago is worth more than its violence and has taught me more about life in two years than I ever thought possible.

I learned, and memorized, a transit system. I learned how to be independent and to ask for help. I befriended bus drivers and coffee shop baristas while learning how to stand on a train with 50 other people and not spill my coffee.

Chicago is more than its violence and I will not let news outlets convince me otherwise.

TURNER59@MIAMIOH.EDU

GLOBAL

MADDIE LAPLANTE-DUBE COLUMNIST

So, the refugee crisis isn’t going well.

Back in Dec. 2015, famous graffiti artist Banksy painted another one of his iconic pieces near London’s French embassy. Set against the backdrop of a tattered French flag, the work featured a black and white, empty-faced girl from Les Miserables. Tears stream from her eyes as tear gas rises from her feet, engulfing her.

According to TIME, The Guardian, BBC, Irish Times and many other major news publications, the work is in direct reference to the overnight raids in Calais, France. Here, police officers shot tear gas, rubber bullets and concussion grenades at refugees in an effort to make them vacate the camp in January. Since its opening in 1999, the French government has attempted to close or destroy Calais, also referred to as “The Jungle,” with their most recent attempt involving bulldozers and the displacement of upwards of 1,500 people. Many refugees consider Calais to be temporary home after fleeing their respective war-torn origins and use it as a connection in their attempts to gain access to the United Kingdom.

The humanitarian artist-of-thepeople did not stop with just one painting. On the actual walls of “The Jungle,” Banksy painted his nowviral piece of Apple founder Steve Jobs carrying a chunky computer and a bag over his shoulder. Jobs’ parents were Syrian migrants. By Calais’ immigration office, Banksy

A.J. NEWBERRYNEWBERAJ@MIAMIOH.EDU

painted an altered version of “The Raft of Medusa,” with his shipwrecked subjects waving in vain at a distant yacht floating by. On the side of a beach building in Calais, the silhouette of a child peers through a looking glass in the direction of the United Kingdom, a vulture sitting atop the instrument.

According to The Guardian, London’s authorities have covered Banksy’s newest piece, the Les Miserables reference, in an attempt to preserve the work. Similar attempts were made at the site of his reincarnation of Steve Jobs in Calais by covering the work in a sheet of glass, which has since been vandalized.

Banksy’s pieces have become some of the most sought-after artwork of the 21st century, with his most expensive piece selling at auction for $1.8 million.

Interesting how Western governments prioritize providing sturdier protection to a piece of graffiti than to traumatized men, women and children looking for a better life.

The refugee crisis has, if anything, only gotten worse, and Western superpowers like the United States, the United Kingdom, France and Germany, who throughout history have forcefully involved themselves in various global humanitarian issues whether or not they were invited to, are now either failing to step up or complaining that they have to. Some European countries like Germany are beginning to seize valuables and cash above $378 (350 euro) in exchange for services.

Denmark is expected to vote in favour of “drastic reforms curbing refugees’ rights,” according to The Guardian. “Refugees will now have to hand over cash exceeding 10,000 kroner ($1,450) and any individual items valued at more than that amount.”

Unlike the rules of the Nazi regime, however, wedding rings and items of sentimental value may be left out.

This is all in an attempt to make these countries seem unpalatable to incoming refugees and deflect them to neighboring countries.

There is no doubt that Europe especially is straining under the weight of the waves of people crashing into the continent. The United State’s plan to relocate 10,000 Syrian refugees came under Islamophobic scrutiny after the attacks in Paris. But the refugee crisis will not go away, nor can it be exploited.

These families need help, they need protection, and they are worth more than some piece of graffiti spray-painted on a wall. We have the resources. It is time to step up to the plate and give these people what they need.

Plus, who knows; maybe one of our refugees could become the next LAPLANMM@MIAMIOH.EDU

EDITORIAL@MIAMISTUDENT.NET

OPINION 7

FRIDAY, JANUARY 29, 2016

CHRIS CURME CURMECM@MIAMIOH.EDU

The magic behind Harry Potter’s success as a book, film franchise and timeless brand BOOKS

ELLEN STENSTROM STAFF WRITER

“There will be books written about Harry. Every child in our world will know his name!”

When JK Rowling wrote this now famous line, she had no way of knowing that it would really come true.

The Harry Potter series is perhaps the most famous fiction series ever written, with 450 million books in print in 73 different languages.

In the United States, 328,259 new books are published every year, but only a few take hold in the hands of today’s readers.

Clearly, the Harry Potter series had what is required to take root, first in Great Britain and America, and then the rest of the world.

Though Rowling’s books tell of semi-realistic students in somewhat realistic situations — with school and friends, at least — the Harry Potter books are essentially a collection of modern-day fairy tales.

The fantasy genre has a way of connecting with kids and adults on a deeper level than it would seem. Harry provides miraculous solutions to intimidating problems and demonstrates the bravery of a classic hero.

Dr. Ildiko Mohacsy, a New York based professor of psychiatry says that “The fairy tale ... conforms to the way a child experiences the world … He can gain better solace from a fairy tale than he can ... based on adult reasoning … A child trusts what the fairy story tells ... its world view accords with his own”.

However, adults are often drawn to fantasy as well, contributing to the multigenerational success of the series.

Many adults lead lives of unsettled pasts. They, too, are vulnerable to the pains and wants of a younger child. Helpless children grow into helpless adults, childhood heroes may pass, but

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the gap left behind still needs to be filled. And for so many, Harry is that figure. Like many heroes of fantasy, Harry comes from difficult circumstances, overcomes the hardship, survives with unexpected help and is carried by a series of miracles into the position of success.

Then what is unique about Potter? The plot and character elements of the series also contribute to its worldwide fame. On a simplistic level, Potter’s literary quality makes it rise to the top like rich cream from milk, but

series to the next level. After books came movies, and Potter’s circumstances as a movie saga were unique as well.

An Economist writer points out that “Most modern blockbuster franchises have two things in common: they are based on known properties such as books and comics, and they are steered by respected, but little-known directors.”

Most of the actors, directors and writers hired for the project were little known before their role in the Potter series. This led

The fact that Harry comes from humble circumstances and must fight to be successful is inspirational to readers.

the series also built on itself exponentially with each installment drawing more and more readers.

The main character, Harry Potter, grows up as an orphaned and abused boy before being whisked off to wizard school where he finds that he is famous, and must fight the most infamous dark wizard of all time, Lord Voldemort.

The fact that Harry comes from humble circumstances and must fight to be successful is inspirational to readers, making them invested in the next epic adventure of their beloved hero.

Harry faces great difficulty much like adolescent readers do.

He feels different than the others around him, like readers often do. He perseveres through challenges like many readers hope to do. Despite Harry’s ability to fly and speak to snakes, Dr. Mohacsy argues that Harry is just like any other person.

Harry’s adventures are heroic and his life intriguing, but this is not unique either. After the books were over, it was Potter’s marketability that carried the

to an unusually stable team that has stayed loyal to the franchise from the beginning, and their dedication has paid off.

The movies’ success has led to the construction of “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter” at Universal Studios in Florida, another attraction complete with rides, themed food and plenty of souvenir shops.

Lastly, bridging the gaps of time between old Potter and new is fan-fiction. This genre of writing has developed a reputation for being amateur, unoriginal and often sexually explicit, but it is ordinary people creating their own versions of the Potter story that allow the legacy to live on.

JK Rowling tried 13 times before she got an offer for Harry Potter, but it was well worth the wait. None can say how long this craze will last, but don’t be surprised if Harry Potter shows up on the list of classics one day.

STENSTEK@MIAMIOH.EDU

Be careful what you rush for: being realistic in recruitment LIFE

GRETA HALLBERG STAFF WRITER

Freshman girls are anxiously comparing outfits and practicing hairstyles for sorority recruitment, which begins today.

I know this because four years ago, I was one of them. I, along with many of the girls on my floor, traipsed across a snowy campus in January to meet the girls that would someday become our sisters.

I fell in love with the prospect of meeting 50 girls, my soon-to-be best friends and my future bridesmaids.

During recruitment, I met countless new girls. I had conversations about anything and everything. I had a perfect rush. Though exhausting, I loved recruitment.

My friends I had met first semester were not as lucky. Girls get cut from sororities they thought they loved. I watched some of my best friends cry when they received their schedule for the day and found fewer chapters than they had expected. I saw hearts break right in front of me, not from a stupid boy, but by a group of girls they had known for 20 minutes.

Despite the obvious pain this process was causing, I was still determined to join a sorority. My first semester was, in all honesty, pretty horrible. I was hundreds of miles away from my home in Minnesota. I experienced complete culture shock when I was faced with the reality of binge drinking.

At 18, I knew that being in a sorority was going to completely change my perspective. I was going to be obsessed with college.

When it came time to preference my top sorority, it was an easy choice. In fact, it’s the one I’m in now. I was thrilled when I got my bid to the sorority of my dreams.

A few weeks in, I was thoroughly disappointed. I was having fun, no doubt, but I found myself overwhelmed by the amount of new people I was meeting. These girls were supposed to be my best friends and I could hardly remember their

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names. Notoriously shy, it was hard for me to insert myself into the friend groups that were naturally forming.

And I hadn’t met a single girl I knew was going to be my Maid of Honor.

Four years later, things have improved immensely. I don’t have 50 best friends which, I now realize, was an unrealistic expectation. I do have a group of 50 women that I am proud to call my sisters, but I know that not every friendship will last beyond Oxford. I have a circle of girls I regularly hang out with and probably three of them will someday be in my wedding.

Needless to say, Greek life was not what I expected. Sure, I have had fun. I loved sharing 50 closets in the corridor. I learned a lot about myself and being part of a team.

But Greek life did not bring me out of my homesickness and my low mood. My job as a camp counselor, getting involved with writing on campus and my internship in DC changed my perspective on college.

It was self discovery, not membership in a sorority, that lifted me out of my freshman year blues.

Being in a sorority does not change the catty girls — they’re going to exist in every facet of your life. It does not eliminate drama or erase cliques. It does not guarantee that you’re going to get along with all 50 girls in your pledge class.

Don’t get me wrong, I’m glad I rushed. I do love the friends I have made through my sorority. I will always look back fondly at college, and Greek life will be included in those memories.

But it is not the most important thing you’ll do in your life, or even in this chapter of it. Greek letters emblazoned across your chest do not determine your self worth. The “tier” of the sorority you decide to pledge does not matter now, or ever.

It does not reflect on who you are or the quality of your experience.

I love my sorority and the friendships I’ve made through it, but it’s not the be all end all.

HALLBEGM@MIAMIOH.EDU

?

8 FYI

FRIDAY, JANUARY 29, 2016

The Miami Student

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FROM greek »PAGE 1

including one first-year, a sophomore and two juniors, and one junior female.

Between Monday and the early morning hours of Wednesday, the Miami University Police Department (MUPD) responded to at least 12 cases of alcohol violations on campus, spanning from High Street to Western Campus.

Of the 12 incidents, eight involved males and four involved females — though no more is revealed about them from MUPD’s police reports — and at least five of the cases resulted in hospitalizations.

Together, these amount to 17 alcohol-related incidents reported to Miami and Oxford police.

However, these reports may not account for all hospitalizations this week. Some students may have been transported directly to the hospital for care, especially in cases that did not involve alcohol — cases of physical violence, for example.

In a release, IFC president and junior Jack Kellenberger said that, once he became aware that reports cited fraternity involvement, IFC “acted immediately and placed reported chapters on interim suspension pending investigation.”

Kellenberger said that IFC would have an “increased presence throughout recruitment,” emphasizing more late night house checks and event checks.

Jayne Brownell, Miami’s vice president for student affairs, called the high-risk drinking reported in the last few days “really concerning,” regardless of whether it is stemming from fraternity recruitment.

Brownell urged students to be aware of what they’re drinking and how much of it they’ve had, but also to look out for each other during the high-pressure weeks surrounding Greek recruitment.

And, she warned, the freezing temperatures only heighten the

9

FRIDAY, JANUARY 29, 2016

risks associated with alcohol consumption.

Despite the incidents surrounding fraternity recruitment, it will continue as scheduled, Brownell said, but with “closer oversight.”

Recruitment is scheduled to last through tomorrow, two days after the kick off of formal sorority recruitment.

All Greek chapter presidents have agreed to a “dry period” for the remainder of fraternity and sorority recruitment, during which time all Panhellenic and IFC organizations — whether they are recognized by the university or not — should refrain from hosting or attending social events.

Dean of Students Mike Curme said the university is investigating the incidents, then, if necessary, will pursue disciplinary action.

“Our number one concern always is the safety of our students,” he said. “After we make sure our students are safe, then we look to see if there might be violations to our student code.

We have expectations for students and for organizations, and we have high expectations for both. For egregious and significant violations of student code, there are significant consequences.”

Though he could say little for certain, Curme made clear that Miami’s long and storied Greek tradition should be a point of pride. To Nelsen, in order for this to happen, “something needs to change.”

“They should be models for the nation, and that’s our goal,” Curme said. “We shouldn’t accept anything less than that.”

Jenny Levering, director of the Cliff Alexander Office of Fraternity and Sorority Life, did not respond to requests for comment.

Elizabeth Nelsen, Panhellenic president, and Jack Kellenberger, IFC president, declined to comment beyond their official statements.

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10 SPORTS

FRIDAY, JANUARY 29, 2016

SPORTS@MIAMISTUDENT.NET

CONNOR MORIARTY PHOTO EDITOR

CONNOR MORIARTY PHOTO EDITOR

CONNOR MORIARTY PHOTO EDITOR

A MESS IN MILLETT The Miami University men’s basketball team’s 10-game losing streak is its longest since 1932-1933, when that team dropped 12 in a row. Miami’s current team ranks 336th in the nation in scoring (63.3 points per game) and 341st in assists per game (10.4). Senior guard Eric Washington leads the RedHawks in scoring, assists and steals, but did not dress for Tuesday’s 68-51 loss to Central Michigan University. Washington has been fighting a lower leg injury since the Jan. 16 game against Ball State University. Sophomore forward Logan McLane was also out Tuesday with a shoulder injury. After the game, head coach John Cooper said the statuses of both players are day-to-day.

Flashback: Sean McVay, Washington Redskins offensive coordinator FEATURE

GRACE REMINGTON SPORTS EDITOR

Sean McVay, offensive coordinator of the Washington Redskins and Miami University ’07 graduate, talks with sports editor Grace Remington about Brick Street Bar, his freshman-year residence hall, the Cradle of the Coaches and his advice to the current football team.

To watch the full interview, visit The Miami Student Sports channel on YouTube. Read part of the interview below: Grace Remington: Before we talk about football, let’s talk about the important stuff. When you were a freshman at Miami, which dorm did you live in?

Sean McVay: I lived in Symmes Hall.

GR: Okay, so tell me your wildest Symmes Hall story.

SM: Wildest Symmes Hall story can probably not go on camera [laughs]. But I had a great time

there. Miami’s a special place.

Made a bunch of great relationships with some of my teammates, who I still keep in touch with, some of my best friends.

Had a bunch of great coaches, and you can see why they have the tradition there that they do.

It’s a special place.

GR: What about your favorite spot Uptown?

SM: Favorite spot Uptown was definitely Brick Street.

GR: So you’re probably familiar with Trashcans.

SM: [laughs] Haven’t had too many experiences there. But Brick Street was an awesome place. Will [Weisman, Brick Street owner] was always great to us, took care of us, so we loved it there.

GR: If you went back to Miami today or in April during spring training, and you went down to Yager Stadium and went into the locker room to talk to the current team and motivate them – remember this is your alma mater, this is your team – what would you say?

SM: Well, I think it’s about taking it one step at a time. Always working on improving and trying to create a culture that’s conducive to winning every single day, and that’s everyone being the best that they can be in every single thing that they do, whether that’s on the field, off the field, in meetings, at practice. If everybody’s striving to reach their highest

potential that’s when you can accomplish some great things.

GR: And I’m sure your familiar with the Cradle of the Coaches – Bo Schembechler, Woody Hayes, Ara Parseghian and, just recently, John Harbaugh. When we look at your career path – you’re 29 years old, offensive coordinator [of an NFL team] and you were first hired in that position when you were 27. Do you ever imagine seeing your name up there with all the greats?

SM: I’m just trying to do a great job in the role that I’m in right now. I’ve been very blessed to be around some great people that have helped me get to this spot. I’m just taking it one step at a time right now. But those are definitely some great special coaches, and anytime you have a chance to be mentioned in that same light you feel very honored and flattered. *** McVay played wide receiver for the Miami football team from

2004-07.

He became the youngest offensive coordinator in Redskins history in January 2014, when he was hired at 27 years old.

McVay comes from a family rooted in football.

His grandfather, John McVay, played center for Miami’s football team from 1950-52 and won the Salad Bowl in his first season.

John served as vice president and general manager for the San Francisco 49ers from 1979-1995, leading the team to five Super Bowl Championships.

John McVay Jr., Sean’s uncle, played defensive back for the RedHawks from 1972-74, winning two Tangerine Bowl games.

Flashback is a series of stories about notable Miami University alumni. We revisit their time as students at Miami and look at the paths they have taken since graduating. Have an idea for the next flashback? Send us a tip at eic@ miamistudent.net or sports@miamistudent.net.

BRIEFS HOCKEY TAKES ON NO. 13 DENVER

REDHAWKS SEEK END TO CMU WIN STREAK

HARRISON SCHWARZ STAFF WRITER

JULIA RIVERA THE MIAMI STUDENT

Coming off a sweep of seventh ranked University of Nebraska-Omaha, the Miami University men’s hockey (9-11-3) team faces No. 13 University of Denver (12-7-5) this weekend in a two-game series. The RedHawks look to continue their three-game winning streak.

Head coach Enrico Blasi gave his take on the team’s recent success.

“Every day is an opportunity to get better,” Blasi said. “Our focus the last month has been fairly good in practice in terms of working on things. The guys are doing a nice job of, one, being responsible in their actions and being ready to go on a dayto-day basis. And then holding each other accountable on the ice to a standard that

we’ve set for them.”

The Denver series marks the beginning of a two-week home stretch that concludes Feb. 6 against St. Cloud State University.

Sophomore defenseman Louie Belpedio looks to continue the recent success from last weekend’s games against Omaha into the homestand.

“We want to carry the momentum from last weekend’s games,” Belpedio said.

“We finally had a little bit of a scoring breakout, which was nice. Guys got their confidence up and we just have to carry that over to this weekend.”

MU plays Denver at 7 p.m. Friday and at 7:05 p.m. Saturday in Oxford, Ohio.

Miami University women’s basketball is set to take on Central Michigan University Saturday.

After a win against Buffalo, Miami is 8-10 overall and 2-5 in the Mid-American Conference. The ’Hawks look to end the 12-7 Chippewa’s three-game winning streak.

In a press conference on Monday, head coach Cleve Wright said sophomore guard Baleigh Reid will miss the remainder of the season due to an injury. It’s troubling news for the ’Hawks, as Reid is the team’s highest scorer, averaging 15.3 points per game.

Sophomore guard Kayla Brown came back from an injury last week against Buffalo. She led Miami with a season-high

16 points, hitting 6-of-11 shots from the field. She also had season-highs with six rebounds and five assists in 37 minutes of action.

The last time the two teams met in a conference game, the RedHawks were unable to finish a comeback and were defeated 7258. Miami leads the all-time series 31-27, but CMU has won the last five meetings.

CMU’s freshman guard Presley Hudson poses a threat for MU. She has been the Chippewas’ leading scorer in four of the last six games. Hudson averages 15.5 points per game this year.

Tipoff is 1 p.m. Saturday in Mount Pleasant, Mich.