A MUSTAN
/// FROSH TIPS /// NEW TO SAN LUIS OBISPO? Suggestions for Newcomers
G DAILY AD
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11 AUGUST 20
/// POINTS OF INTEREST Map & Guide to Campus Resources
/// FEES, FREEDOMS & FERPA What You Need to Know
11 AUGUST 20 / Y IL A D G MUSTAN
2 / EDITOR’S NOTE 4 / POINTS OF INTEREST
A map and guide to on-campus resources
7 / QUESTION & ANSWER WITH PRESIDENT ARMSTRONG Behind the scenes with Cal Poly’s new president
9 / ADJUSTING TO THE COLLEGE LIFE
Parents and students share their suggestions and advice for the college transition
11 / CONSTRUCTION UPDATE
Summer construction closes Cal Poly roads and walkways
13 / NEW TO SAN LUIS OBISPO?
Restaurant suggestions and things to do in SLO for newcomers
16 / NEW COLLEGE, NEW EXPERIENCES, NEW OPPORTUNITIES FOR FRESHMEN photography credits: this page and cover, Laura Howell
How to get involved as a freshman faced with a new life
19 / FROSH TIPS: A GUIDE FOR NEW STUDENTS Frequently asked questions about campus life
23 / FAMOUS FACES OF CAL POLY
A directory of some of the most influential people on campus
25 / FEES, FREEDOMS AND FERPA: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW Information regarding students rights and liberties
28 / WOW PREVIEW
A preview of Week of Welcome 2011 mustangdaily.net / 1
EDITOR’S NOTE
MUSTANG DAILY SUMMER STAFF 2011 SOAR Margaret Pack special sections coordinator Breann Borges SOAR advertising director Laura Howell SOAR art director
EDITORIAL Kaytlyn Leslie editor-in-chief Karlee Prazak managing editor Nicole Marcell news editor Cate Harkins arts editor Brian De Los Santos sports editor Alicia Freeman staff writer Victoria Billings staff writer Katelyn Sweigart staff writer Cody Boyles staff writer Christian Millan design editor Margaret Pack copy editor Alyssa Santos copy editor
ART Brad Matsushita graphic design manager Emily Hsiao production manager Laura Howell advertising designer Jenna Pile advertising designer Nha Ha photographer
WEB Ken Orvick
online editor
ADVERTISING Breann Borges advertising manager Miles Buckley advertising representative Chelsea Harden advertising representative Sarah Tjepkema advertising representative Nick McCracken advertising representative
BUSINESS Brittany Renfro business staff Sarah Diekneite business staff
ADVISOR Paul Bittick general manager Stephanie Murawski advertising coordinator
Graphic Arts Building, Suite 226 California Polytechnic State University San Luis Obispo, CA 93405 Editorial general line / 805 756 1796 Advertising general line / 805 756 1143 Fax / 805 756 6784
2 / mustangdaily.net
Welcome to Cal Poly! I hope you’re as excited to attend (or for your student to attend) Cal Poly as I was when I attended SOAR three summers ago. Now entering my fourth (and last) year at Cal Poly, I realize that SOAR was the real beginning to the great experience I have had at this university. When I first arrived at SOAR, one thing I was still very nervous about was who my randomly assigned freshman roommate would be. Luckily, when I was in line for my first Poly Card, I met a friend who made me think, yes, if I get a roommate like her, I will be very happy. It turns out that today she is still one of my closest friends at Cal Poly and was a roommate for both my sophomore and junior years. Everyone I approached at SOAR was not only prepared, but also enthusiastic to answer my questions. I’ve found that that’s just how Cal Poly is. Most people are not only ready to help you— they want to help you. They want to you to love Cal Poly just as much as they do. Now that I’m an upperclassman, I know that this is what makes me excited to interact with those who are new to campus. If I can give you (or your student) one piece of advice coming in as a new student, it would be to get involved. Getting involved at Cal Poly is an awesome way to help make the university’s size less intimidating and make Cal Poly your own. That doesn’t mean the very first minute that you’re here you have to join everything possible. I wasn’t ready my freshman year to commit myself to extra activities— simply because I didn’t really know what I wanted to be involved in. I dedicated my first year to spending time with new friends, and of course, squeezing in study time. Then, during my second year, I had a better idea of how I wanted to become a part of the school. Whatever way you choose to spend your time here, try to make the most of being a Mustang. We’ve provided tips and ideas in this publication to help you get started. These four (or five or six) years will go by quickly— so try not to waste any time!
Margaret Pack
Special Sections Coordinator journalism senior
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A GUIDE TO
CAMPUS RESOURCES Robert E. Kennedy Library
www.lib.calpoly.edu Voted #1 Study Spot by Cal Poly students, the library not only has books, periodicals and a knowledgeable staff to help find exactly what you need, but group study rooms, Wi-Fi, laptop rentals, a café, vending machines and outdoor seating. Cal Poly Print & Copy is located in the 24 -Hour Study Room, where you can scan and print projects and papers or purchase supplies like index cards, pencils and USB flash drives.
Health Center
www.calpoly.edu/~hps The Health Center provides an on-campus health care facility by appointment or urgent care. It employs board certified physicians, licensed physician assistants and nurse practitioners, and offers laboratory testing, X-rays, vaccinations and prescription medications. It also provides counseling services for managing stress, depression, drug and alcohol resources and other mental health issues.
Recreation Center
www.asi.calpoly.edu/rec_center_project The Recreation Center will be closed until the end of construction, which is estimated to be until January 2012. Basketball and tennis courts behind Mott Gymnasium are open for informal use, and the Sports Complex has basketball courts and fields as well. The PRE-REC, a temporary fitness facility in building 19, will have Cybex Eagle machines, treadmills, stationary bikes and ellipticals. Cal Poly students have automatic membership, paid for by student fees.
Media Distribution Services
www.mds.calpoly.edu MDS provides equipment such as cameras, laptops and projectors for checkout, video services, classroom support, video conferencing, special event services and technical consultation. There are two sites for this service: the Cotchett Education Bulding in room 9 and the Alan A. Erhart Agriculture Building in room 125, according to the Cal Poly Media Distribution Services website.
Study Help
www.sas.calpoly.edu Student Academic Services in room 112 of the Kennedy Library provides programs and support services to help students better their study skills. They also provide a referral list of tutors.
University Writing Lab
www.calpoly.edu/~wrtskils 114 YOSEMITE Located in the Alan A. Erhart Agriculture Building room 138, this service offers free consultation in writing projects for any major or discipline. It is possible to schedule an appointment over the phone for Writing Lab services. The lab is for enhancing students’ writing skills, and not a proofreading or editing service.
El Corral Bookstore
www.elcorralbookstore.com El Corral Bookstore sells textbooks, courseware and Cal Poly merchandise. It also sells various electronic supplies, from laptops to software, gifts and school supplies.
Football Stadium
www.gopoly.com The Alex G. Spanos Stadium is planning a renovation to expand capacity from approximately 11,000 to 22,000 seats. Cal Poly holds soccer and football games in this stadium.
University Union
www.asi.calpoly.edu The UU is a campus hub of activity, providing many services and entertainment— student lounges for socializing and quiet study, Internet stations, a Starbucks, a pizza parlor, conference rooms, club and organization resource areas and an auditorium for guest speakers, career fairs, club events, dinners and dances. The UU Plaza is an outdoor community area that is great for socializing or attending events like concerts and club fairs.
International Education Programs Office
www.iep.calpoly.edu The International Education and Programs office is located in the Mathematics and Science Building, room 145. Students can go there to find information on study abroad programs, information sessions, scholarships and other various resources.
University Police Department
www.afd.calpoly.edu/police The UPD’s mission is to maintain order, enforce laws and promote a safe learning environment for the campus. They also handle parking, access and emergency services.
Student Life & Leadership
www.studentlife.calpoly.edu Located in the UU, Cal Poly offers a variety of offices and resources such as the MultiCultural Center, Pride Center, Greek Life, Gender Equity Center, Orientation Programs and Student Community Services.
Career Services
www.careerservices.calpoly.edu This center provides resources and counselors to help students on their path to a career. It helps to develop career plans, create résumés, find internships and jobs, contact alumni and employers and develop graduate school plans.
Disability Resource Center
www.drc.calpoly.edu Its mission is to “assist in creating an accessible university community where students with disabilities have an equal opportunity to fully participate in all aspects of the educational environment,” according to the Cal Poly Disability Resource Center website. mustangdaily.net / 5
President and Mrs. Armstrong
QuestioN ANSWER with
ARMSTRONG Cody Boyles codyboyles.md @ gmail.com Cal Poly President Jeffrey Armstrong is now entering his first fall quarter at Cal Poly. He shared how he is adjusting to the university and the Central Coast— and gave advice for incoming Cal Poly students, who are also about to transition to a new life in San Luis Obispo.
How are you feeling coming into you first new school year at Cal Poly? Excited? Anxious? I’m ecstatic! I’m still going through the first of everything and am honored and humbled to be the ninth president of Cal Poly. I’m also excited to be arriving with this great incoming freshman class.
photography credit: Cal Poly Public Affairs
PRESIDENT
Which university was the most difficult to leave? Leaving North Carolina State was the (most difficult) because it is my alma mater. I have great memories there, such as playing pick-up basketball games with members of NC State’s 1983 National Champion men’s basketball team.
Do you have any advice for students adjusting to the Cal Poly and San Luis Obispo lifestyle? Do you feel well-adjusted to the Cal Poly campus? I feel right at home with Cal Poly’s Learn By Doing philosophy. It’s great to know that the entire faculty and staff are completely focused on student success. My wife and I feel right at home in San Luis Obispo.
They should dive right into their school work and treat it like a job — be serious. Students should take advantage of the multiple resources provided by colleges, units and residence halls. I also advise students to get involved in clubs, athletics and student government.
What do you miss most about Michigan State University?
How has your experience at Cal Poly been so far?
I miss the relationships we developed, both personal and professional, with the faculty and students. You develop an attachment with a campus that is hard to leave, but my family and I are excited to be at Cal Poly.
It’s been awesome. The people and the climate have been extremely welcoming. It’s the happiest place on Earth and that defines it pretty well. We have had great interactions with the city council, chamber of commerce and alumni. mustangdaily.net / 7
Do you have any favorite places you would recommend? Definitely Bishop Peak. I hiked it with my wife and son at sunrise and it was absolutely beautiful.
What made you interested in becoming Cal Poly’s president? There were two factors. As a product of Learn By Doing, I have always strived to do better— in this case, I wanted to expand my leadership role. Second, as I learned more and more about Cal Poly during the interview process, it became apparent that Cal Poly was a perfect fit for my wife Sharon and I.
Michigan State has one of the best supported sports programs in the country. From your experience, how do sports enhance a student’s college experience? We have a great athletics program with a new athletics director— Don Oberhelman. Athletics are a great example of Learn By Doing. Performing arts and sports are front doors to the university— both are great ways to get involved with the university. We want to enhance our athletic programs by expanding facilities and continue to enjoy support from our student body and alumni.
Lastly, how do plan on improving communication between the student body and the university’s administration? What sets Cal Poly apart academically from other universities you have been associated with? The Learn By Doing philosophy and the university’s absolute commitment to student success. The students, staff and faculty have great pride in what the university has accomplished and we all want to see our programs get better. We hope to continue to enhance the Cal Poly brand both nationally and globally.
We will continue to connect through (Associated Students Inc.), college councils and other groups. Student organizations provide a great avenue for communication. This past spring we held multiple focus groups with students, faculty and staff. We plan to continue these discussions with special opportunities to listen to incoming freshmen. Also groups such as Week of Welcome, ASI and our residence hall programs provide students with a great way to integrate themselves into campus life.
ADJUSTING TO THE COLLEGE LIFE:
PARENTS & STUDENTS SHARE THEIR SUGGESTIONS & ADVICE Margaret Pack
McKinley also added that it is crucial to always keep the lines of communication open, whether through texting or making phone calls.
mpack90 @ gmail.com As fall is just around the corner, both students and parents will prepare for the college transition. Many parents might be worried about keeping in touch with their students or making sure they make the right decisions. Cal Poly Parent Program Advisory Council members, Susan McKinley and Judy Lee, stressed the importance of understanding that college is a time for parents to allow their students to become independent and make their own choices and decisions.
“I will answer my phone any time, day or night, if one of my kids is calling,” she said.
“College is a time for young adults to get out there on their own (and) make mistakes in a recoverable atmosphere,” Lee said. “I just think the most important things parents can do is let the kid know that you will always be there for them— but don’t hover.”
Don’t Hover— This is a time for learning
She said after having two sons attend Cal Poly, she realized each student handles the transition differently, which should be dealt with accordingly. “I have two very different students at Cal Poly— my older student only wanted me around when he wanted me up for something specific,” she said. “My younger one was very different. He does not object to me being there very often as long as I don’t interfere with his activities. I let him know when I’ll be up and he let’s me know when he’s free— let them guide the amount of time I plan to spend.” McKinley gave similar advice for parents who are preparing for the college transition. “They need to have opportunities to make decisions and see the consequences of their decisions,” she said. “We’re there to be counselors and advisers but ultimately they’re going to make the choices and we can only be there to support them.” Both Lee and McKinley shared many of the same suggestions for parents with college-bound students.
Learn to Text and Skype “Number one— I would definitely learn how to text,” Mckinley said. “Parents need to know how to text (because) children aren’t going to answer their phone. Make sure your computers have Skype so that maybe once a week you can actually see and talk to your child.”
Lee said texting was important to keep in touch with your new student, who is probably more likely to send a quick text during his or her busy freshman year. “Parents should be proficient at texting,” she said. “That’s a great communication tool; that way you don’t bug your child.”
Lee suggested the relationship you have with your student once he or she is away at college should be initiated by the student. “How much a parent should be involved or how much a parent should know to be involved is really guided by the student,” she said. McKinley was very matter-of-fact about speaking with incoming students about the realities and possible consequences of alcohol and drugs. “Parents should have some very down-to-earth talks about drinking and drugs,” McKinley said. “As it is in high school, it’s going to be there and they have to make good choices and healthy choices.” She also said the relationship parents have with their students have been built their whole lives, and now is the time to continue that relationship. “You built on this relationship for the last 18 years and that openness that you have with your child needs to continue into college,” she said.
FIGURE OUT how finances will be handled before School starts Whether it’s deciding who will pay for tuition, what bank you will choose or how to use an insurance card, students and parents should discuss these issues before they are away at school. McKinley said there is a specific permission form that students must sign to allow their parents access to their campus finances, and that it is important to do so.
“ We’re there to be counselors and advisers but ultimately they’re going to make the choices and we can only be there to support them.” — Susan McKinley, Cal Poly Parent Program Advisory Council member
mustangdaily.net / 9 mustangdaily.net / #
“I liked that (my parents) were open to whatever I had to say about the social aspects as well as the academics.” — Griggs Ziesing, business administration senior
“If (parents) are involved in their child’s finances, they need to have their child sign that financial aid form, which gives them permission to call the financial aid office,” she said. This is the Authorization to Release Student Account Information Form, available on the Student Accounts website. McKinley, an out-of-state parent from Nevada, said it is important to choose a bank that can easily transfer funds and is fully accessible in both states. “When my son first went to college, I could not put money into his Nevada account and have it go into the California system,” she said. “Now it will, but at the time it wouldn’t.” She suggested to do some research on the bank your student will use if he or she is coming from out of state. In other financial woes, McKinley said being insured is not the only important part of anticipating an emergency or medical issue. “Make sure if (students) have their insurance card that they have their own personal copy and that they know how to use it,” she said.
Encourage your Students to sign up for WOW! Both parents agreed that Week of Welcome (WOW) is a great opportunity for new students to become adjusted to the college experience. “(Many parents are) very interested in how their children might fit in socially if he or she was not super social and not super popular in high school,” Lee said. “My answer to that is that WOW really starts it off in the best possible manner. I always promote WOW week and the importance of showing up with a positive attitude, being excited about it and just jumping right in.” McKinley said not only is it important for students to participate in WOW, but also for parents to know that once WOW has started it is time for them to go home and allow their students to adjust. “Say goodbye, (give) hugs and kisses, and let them become integrated— drop them off and go home,” McKinley said.
Heed a student’s advice Griggs Ziesing, a business administration senior, said he transitioned easily into college— partially because of the relationship he had and maintained with his parents. “I liked that they were open to whatever I had to say about the social aspects as well as the academics,” Ziesing said. “They didn’t want to force me to do anything; I felt comfortable to talk to them about both social and academic changes.” He also said he liked that his parents took an interest in his college life, without hovering and questioning him. Ziesing said he enjoyed knowing that his parents trusted him, but that they would be there for him if he encountered a problem. 10 / mustangdaily.net
Still have questions? The Cal Poly Parent Program offers a variety of services for parents with questions or concerns regarding their new Cal Poly students. Parent Program coordinator Nona Nickelsen suggested parents should take advantage of the variety of resources the Cal Poly Parent Program offers, especially if they feel like they don’t know where to start or where to go with their questions. Staff is available to answer questions via a helpline. The Parent Program also distributes an e-newsletter and connects parents with each other through the Cal Poly Parents Facebook page. Her advice to new parents? “Have confidence that you raised your child to have the sensibility and the skills they need to succeed at Cal Poly,” Nickelsen said. “The most rewarding part of college for you will be when you see how well your student can solve problems on their own.” To get involved, parents can become a part of the Cal Poly Parent Program by joining the Parent Program Advisory Council— members of which serve three-year terms as parent ambassadors.
photography credit, Laura Howell
Construction Update : Victoria Billings
Summer construction closes Cal Poly roads and walkways
victoriabillings.md@ gmail.com
University Union (UU) pedestrian walkway that leads from the UU to the Kinesiology Building, adjacent to the Recreation Center, Judd said.
Blocked roads and chain-link fences decorate most of campus, as Cal Poly’s construction projects kick into high gear for the summer.
There are also plans for a cul-de-sac for vehicle traffic at the end of the pedestrian pathway, which will be completed by the start of Fall Quarter 2011.
The drop in the number of people on campus for summer quarter makes it easier for construction zones to be expanded in association with ongoing construction projects, said Joel Neel, associate director of facilities planning and capital projects at Cal Poly. These include projects such as Area 52 and the remodeling of the Recreation Center. During the summer months, construction crews turn their efforts toward roadwork and other projects that would be inconvenient to the large masses of students returning to Cal Poly in the fall, Neel said. “If we have to dig a trench down the middle of the road, we like to do that during the summer,” Neel said.
Though there are still students on campus during the summer months, most are fine with the expanded construction. Roads are closed and walkways blocked off, but alternative routes keep the construction from being an inconvenience, industrial engineering junior Eric Goldsmith said.
“People complain about the current construction, but the next generation appreciates it.” — Kenny Sing, art & design senior
University Drive, for example, was closed for two-and-a-half weeks, and finally reopened on June 28. With the road reopened, North Perimeter Road is next. It will be closed for the next month, Neel said. The summer construction progress is evident not just in road closures but also in new structures on campus. The biggest is a 1.5 million gallon thermal water tank across from the Recreation Center, which will help supply water to the whole campus, Neel said. The Recreation Center is also nearing its final stages of expansion, after closing down completely in early June. It is set to reopen in January 2012. The final steps of renovating the gym, wrestling room and pool deck are now being undertaken, said Perry Judd, project manager for facilities planning and capital projects. “Pretty much everything that we had kept open had to get closed so that we could renovate,” Judd said. A section of South Perimeter Road was also fenced off from pedestrian traffic. That area will be turned into an extension of the For current updates on construction check out: www.area52calpoly.com
“They’ve done a decent job of making detours and keeping what they can open,” Goldsmith said. Goldsmith said the only aspect of construction that bothers him is the closure of the Recreation Center’s facilities. “Not being able to go to the gym has been difficult because it’s one of the few within walking distance, and it’s essentially
free,” Goldsmith said. Goldsmith is not the only student who wishes the Recreation Center was still open. Art & design senior Kenny Sing said his roommates also miss having the Recreation Center’s facilities available. “Talking to my roommates who would have loved to work out at the Recreation Center this summer, they’re kind of disappointed about that,” Sing said. However, Sing said, none of the construction on campus really bothers him. He said he accepts that some portions of the campus will always be under construction, which is just how Cal Poly keeps its facilities modern. Sing said he’s enjoyed the construction projects that were completed before he came to Cal Poly, just as future students will appreciate the results of this summer’s construction. “People complain about the current construction, but the next generation appreciates it,” Sing said. This article was originally published in the Mustang Daily on July 6, 2011 mustangdaily.net / 11
Stay in the loop ! Keep up with campus life from mustangdaily.net
mustangdaily.net Where you’ll find breaking news stories, Mustang sports coverage, campus events and photos, editor blogs, videos, and reader comments that will keep you informed while you’re at home.
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is just a click away!
photography credit, Laura Howell
San Luis Obispo is filled with local treasures— these are just a few of our reader’s favorites. However, we recommend trying everything— you never know which will become your own!
NEW TO SAN LUIS OBISPO? $ $0–10 / dish
$$ $10-20 / dish
$$$ $20 + / dish
approximate pricing
YOU’VE GOTTA TRY FIRESTONE GRILL
GREAT BREAKFASTS $-$$
great tri-tip sandwiches
BREAKFAST BUZZ
$
known for the “Buzz” breakfast burrito
FRANKS FAMOUS HOT DOGS
$
LINNAEA’S CAFÉ
$
SPLASH CAFÉ*
$
DEL MONTE CAFÉ
$$
LOUISA’S PLACE
$$
famous clam chowder bread bowls
PETRA MEDITERRANEAN PIZZA & GRILL
$
MAMA’S MEATBALL
$$
THAI PALACE
$$
SYLVESTER’S BURGERS
$$
DELIS & SANDWICHES
known for its 5 lb burger, located in Los Osos
OLD WEST CINNAMON ROLLS
$
located in Pismo Beach
NOVO RESTAURANT & LOUNGE
$$‑$$$
great outdoor atmosphere by the creek
F. MCLINTOCK’S SALOON & DINING HOUSE*
HIGH STREET DELI
$
BEN FRANKLIN’S SANDWICHES
$
GUS’S GROCERY & DELI
$
delectable homemade potato chips
$$$
* Downtown San Luis Obispo and Pismo Beach locations
All restaurants are located near downtown San Luis Obispo unless otherwise stated.
HOUSE OF BREAD
$
LINCOLN MARKET & DELI
$‑$$ mustangdaily.net / 13
VEGETARIAN HOTSPOTS
MIDNIGHT MUNCHIES
These are all great spots for carnivores too!
BEL FRITES
$
NATURAL CAFÉ
$
VRAJA’S KITCHEN
$
TONITA’S MEXICAN FOOD
$
VEGAN SPICES THAI CUISINE
$$
PITA PIT
$
THE WILD DONKEY CAFÉ
$$
TACO BELL
$
BIG SKY CAFÉ
$$‑$$$
WOODSTOCK’S PIZZA
$
french fries with unique dipping sauces
SUSHI SUGGESTIONS SHINS SUSHI BAR
SWEET TREATS
$
SUNSHINE DONUTS
$
SUSHIYA $$
SLO DONUT CO.
$
HANABI JAPANESE RESTAURANT
COWBOY COOKIE N’ GRUB
$
$$
nothing compares to a fresh “Cowchip”
SUMO SUSHI & GRILL
$$
YANAGI SUSHI
$$‑$$$
multiple locations, some with Teppanyaki grills
GOSHI JAPANESE RESTAURANT
$$‑$$$
POWELL’S SWEET SHOPPE
$
BALI’S SELF SERVE FROZEN YOGURT
$
YOGURT CREATIONS
$
Special Deals
There’s always a reason to visit the Courtyard.
Banquet space for all size events Group Discounts available for all occasions Discount packages available: Golf at Avila Bay Resort Wine Tasting Hearst Castle Tours Plus More! Check Website for Details
Book Online Today! Marriott.com/sbpcy • Heated Pool & Spa
805.786.4200
• Complimentary Wi-fi • Coin Laundry & Dry Cleaning • 24 hour Fitness Room Available • Café open for Complete Breakfast Buffet and dinner as well!
1605 Calle Joaquin Road San Luis Obispo
FUN ACTIVITIES IN SAN LUIS OBISPO Take part in these San Luis Obispo traditions— and create your own! Relax and swim at beaches such as Avila, Pismo or Shell
Visit the Leaning Pine Arboretum on campus
Hike Bishop Peak, Cerro San Luis, or for a short hike, to the Cal Poly “P”
Check out the “architecture graveyard” in Poly Canyon (down the Poly Canyon trail, not Poly Canyon Village!)
Go kayaking in Morro Bay
Head to Morro Bay for fresh seafood
Shop and stroll in downtown San Luis Obispo
Pick pumpkins for Halloween, visit the petting zoo and purchase fresh produce, baked goods and treats at Avila Valley Barn in Avila Beach
Hot springs in Avila Beach Hike or bike around Montaña de Oro and check out the tide pools Come up for Parent’s Weekend Attend a Cal Poly sporting event Check out the Farmers’ Market every Thursday night in downtown San Luis Obispo Ride your bike through downtown San Luis Obispo for “Bike Night” the first Thursday of each month after Farmers’ Market Visit Bubblegum Alley in downtown San Luis Obispo Buy fresh produce at Cal Poly U-Pick
Line Dance on Thursday nights at The Graduate; lessons begin at 8 p.m. and dancing to follow at 9 p.m. Watch a movie outdoors at the Sunset Drive-In movie theater Bowl at Mustang Lanes— the Cal Poly bowling alley Shape a surfboard, learn to blow glass, throw clay or create other crafts at the Cal Poly Craft Center Take an outdoor adventure with the help of Poly Escapes (guided trips and equipment rental) Drive up North along the Highway 1 to tour Hearst Castle
...and much, much more!
NEW COLLEGE, NEW EXPERIENCES, NEW OPPORTUNITIES FOR FRESHMEN. Alyssa Santos alyssasantos.md @ gmail.com For incoming freshmen, September 19 marks the beginning of a new part of academic life— exciting for some, frightening for others and likely transforming for most. Many new students at Cal Poly will undergo a change in geographic locations, social groups, living quarters and overall lifestyle as a college student. In this new scene, freshmen often miss high school friends and time with family, seeking a new community in San Luis Obispo to call family for the next four years. Luckily, Cal Poly welcomes them with an enormous directory of on-campus resources and a friendly community of peers. A valuable resource for new San Luis Obispo residents is the Student Community Services (SCS) office on campus. In addition to the MultiCultural Center, the Pride Center and the Gender Equity Center, SCS is located in the University Union (UU) and provides a seemingly unlimited number of volunteer programs for students with extra time. Architecture senior Alisha Ginsberg said she has volunteered since her freshman year at Cal Poly and, as an out-of-state student, said SCS has allowed her to really “get the most out of living in SLO.” “(Freshman year) is a time to try new things and learn from people 16 / mustangdaily.net
completely different from yourself,” she said. “It’s a great way to meet people outside of your major, gain a better understanding for the area and become a more well-rounded student.” Also operating out of the UU are all services offered by Associated Students Inc. (ASI), including the Craft Center, Poly Escapes office, student government and ASI Events. The Craft Center offers studio space, tools and classes in bike repair, ceramics, flame working, jewelry making, skateboard construction, surfboard shaping and wood working. Kinesiology junior Holly Wiswell currently works at Poly Escapes and said she recommends both becoming involved in ASI and visiting the Poly Escapes office to learn about trips and equipment rentals. “A lot of students don’t know what is available (at Poly Escapes),” Wiswell said. “It really is the best option around for gear rental and there are awesome trips that people might not have a chance to do otherwise.” Poly Escapes provides trips for students interested in a wide variety of activities, including backpacking, hiking, kayaking, surfing, rock climbing, snow shoeing and even ice climbing, led by a trained and experienced student guide.
photography credit, Aaron Lambert
Students can explore the University Union to find their niche; concerts are held in the outdoor plaza as well as craft sales, movie showings and tons of club events. Of course, it’s also always a great place to socialize with friends.
Wiswell also said working for Poly Escapes within ASI has taught her how to balance work and school and allowed her to meet active people from a variety of majors.
“(Rho Phi Lambda) has opened my eyes to how welcoming people are in my major,” Black said. “You really feed off each other’s passions, dreams and goals; it gives you more vision for your future.”
Opportunities to get involved can also begin the very first weekend of the quarter with recruitment for greek life. Cal Poly offers 37 fraternities and sororities, including cultural, religious and scholastic chapters. Joining a sorority or fraternity has allowed hundreds of new students to gain immediate brothers and sisters that often become lifelong friends. Many students who dive into greek life find their calendar filled with social activities, spirited events, service projects, fundraisers and surrounded by a network of close peers.
Other programs like University Graphics System (UGS) and the Mustang Daily allow students to hone their skills further and apply their knowledge to a working environment.
Another easy and beneficial place to get involved is within a particular major’s club, college ambassador group or honor society. Cal Poly offers more than 300 student-led clubs that have contributed to the ultimate college experience in countless ways including professionally, recreationally, politically and academically. Recreation, parks, and tourism administration ( RPTA) senior Amber Black said joining Rho Phi Lambda, the RPTA honors society, has introduced her to people who share similar interests and has helped her get the most out of her major.
Week of Welcome (WOW) orientation program and Open House committee have both maintained high popularity in the past for freshman students. After Open House showcases the best of Cal Poly to prospective students and parents, current students can participate in spring training to become a WOW orientation leader when they return in the fall as sophomores. Other areas to get involved include intramural sports teams, dorm council and dorm social events. While finishing up her last class at Cal Poly, Black said joining oncampus groups and clubs can help new students transition and meet new people, adding, “The people you meet (are) what make college most fulfilling.”
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Frosh Tips
A Guide for New Students Victoria Billings
victoriabillings.md@ gmail.com
Housing What housing options are available for students? In their first year, students can choose from several different housing options. The North Mountain Halls are mostly for engineering students, while the South Mountain Halls (or red bricks) are divided up according to college. Sierra Madre and Yosemite (the towers) are mixed halls, where freshmen can make connections with Cal Poly students from every major. Finally, Cerro Vista is housing for freshmen as well as some sophomore students and new transfers to Cal Poly.
What are living arrangements like in the dorms? The North Mountain Halls, South Mountain Halls, Sierra Madre and Yosemite are all one-room dorms, with two to three students per room. Each residence hall comes with a microwave, refrigerator and each individual room includes storage space, beds and desks. Cerro Vista is one person to a room, with a common living area in the apartments, as well as a kitchen. All floor plans for rooms are available at the Cal Poly housing website at: www.housing.calpoly.edu
What should students bring with them when moving in? Bedding and towels, coat hangers, a fan, surge protectors, a computer for schoolwork, a clock radio, etc. More items are listed on the housing website under the “Freshmen Moving In” tab.
What items aren’t allowed in the dorms? Air conditioners, extension cords, fire hazards such as candles and toasters, furniture, bed risers, weapons and pets are all forbidden. Students should also not bring too many clothes and personal items with them, said director of housing administration and planning June C. Serjeant, because the dorms are not very big. “What they need to remember is that the rooms are small and there’s going to be roommates. Don’t bring everything you own,” Serjeant said. Instead, Serjeant recommends that when students go home to visit for holidays like Thanksgiving, they take summer clothes home and return to the dorms with their winter clothes.
What housing options are available for sophomores? Cal Poly offers housing for returning students at Poly Canyon Village. “Poly Canyon Village was built and designed with secondyear students in mind,” Serjeant said. Students can choose their roommates and pick their own rooms. For those who want to live off campus, University Housing also offers rental listings on its website.
MEAL PLAN How does the meal plan work at Cal Poly? All freshman students in the residence halls are required to purchase a meal plan. “We don’t want freshmen to have to worry about going to the grocery store and cooking meals,” Serjeant said. Dining plans include both dining credits and Plu$ dollars. Plu$ dollars can be used to buy food anywhere on campus with a Poly Card. Dining credits are used at specific locations to purchase meals, and students can pick from various dining plans to select how many dining credits they would like per week. Plu $ dollars are carried over from quarter to quarter, while dining credits expire at the end of each week. The Freedom plan offers students one dining credit per day, while Flexibility offers one to two per day and the Value plan offers students two dining credits per day. All plans cost the same amount, and offer a different amount of Plu $ dollars for students. Full descriptions of meal plans and Campus Dining venues are available at: www.calpolydining.com
Are there any dining options for students with diet restrictions (vegetarian, vegan or gluten-free, etc.)? Campus Dining allows for diet restrictions by providing salad bars, build-your-own-burrito menus and other opportunities for students to pick what they would like to eat, said Yuki Nishinaga, director for public relations and marketing for Campus Dining. “In a lot of the options you’re able to modify your meal,” Nishinaga said. All nutrition facts are listed on Campus Dining’s website under the nutrition tab, with a special list just to show which foods are gluten-free, vegetarian, vegan, dairy-free, low fat or peanut-free.
Should students have extra money for eating off campus? Students should have a little extra pocket cash on hand for when they need a change from campus food said business administration sophomore Nicholas Johnson. “I definitely recommend food money aside from school because school food definitely gets old after a week or two,” Johnson said. Check out the article on page 13 for some great off-campus restaurant suggestions!
How should students pick which meal plan is best for them? Nishinaga recommends students pick a plan based on how they anticipate dining throughout the quarter. The Value plan, mustangdaily.net / 19
with more dining credits and fewer Plu$ dollars, is ideal for students who want to get three square meals a day, while the Freedom plan is better for student that “eats maybe smaller meals a day or more sporadically,” Nishinaga said. If a student ever runs out of meal credits, Campus Dining is adding the Fast Pass program this year. Fast Passes are packs of meal credits that students can purchase in groups as small as five and as large as 120, and can be redeemed at the 19 Metro Station dining facility. Unlike the dining credits included in the residence dining plans, Fast Pass meal credits do not expire at the end of the week, but last all academic year.
BANKING What banking options are available in San Luis Obispo? There are plenty of banks to choose from in San Luis Obispo, many of them conveniently downtown. In just a few blocks, people can find Coast National Bank, Union Bank, San Luis Trust Bank, Mission Community Bank, First Bank of San Luis Obispo, Wells Fargo, Bank of America, Heritage Oaks and Chase.
What banks have ATMs or branches on campus? Currently, Wells Fargo, Chase, Bank of America and Golden 1 Credit Union have ATMs on campus.
How much are dining credits worth during different meal periods? Each meal period allows for one dining credit to be used. Prices and times for each meal are as follows: Breakfast 7:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.
$7.90
Lunch 10:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
$9.00
Dinner 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
$10.75
Late Night 8:00 p.m. to 2 a.m.
$8.75
Do any local banks have programs tailored to college students whose parents’ banks are not local? Both Union Bank and Chase are examples of banks with banking programs specifically tailored to college students. Union Bank gives students free checking accounts, with online banking and bill pay, ATM access and debit cards included, as well as a free savings program, according to its College Banking brochure. Chase gives students checking accounts with free debit cards, online banking and bill pay, access to ATMs and mobile alerts. Students can bank at Chase fee-free for up to five years while in college, said Scott Doi, the San Luis Obispo-Chorro branch manager.
TRANSPORTATION Do students need a car their freshman year? A car isn’t necessary for freshmen because of San Luis Obispo’s public transportation system, but it’s nice to know someone with a car, said business administration sophomore Katherine Berendt. “Getting around downtown is fine on buses,” Berendt said. “You don’t need a car for that, but for fast transportation and to go to the beach, it’s nice to have a car.”
Is there public transportation for students? Is it easy to use? Buses are free to students with their Poly Card, and pick up and drop off at both Kennedy Library and the Performing Arts Center. Buses run downtown, as well as throughout San Luis Obispo. Bus routes are available at: www.rideshare.org.
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How much does a parking pass cost? Residential parking passes are available for $495 for the 2011-2012 academic year, and allow students to park in the residential spaces near the residence halls.
Is it easy to get home using public transit if students don’t have their own cars? Amtrak buses pick up near the Performing Arts Center, and can take students to the train station, which is approximately two miles from the Cal Poly campus.
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FAMOUS FACES OF CAL POLY
With so many students, faculty and staff at Cal Poly, it might seem difficult to remember everyone you meet. Here are some of the important people who keep Cal Poly successful.
photography credits, clockwise from top: Cal Poly Public Affairs, Mustang Daily - Nha Ha, Cal Poly Public Avffairs, Cal Poly Corporation, Cal Poly Publci Affairs, Mustang Daily - Amber Kiwan, Athletic Media Relations, Cal Poly Police Department, Athletic Media Relations
Jeffrey Armstrong Cal Poly President President Armstrong was appointed in December of last year and formally took office February 1, 2011. He has actively integrated himself into the Cal Poly campus. Don’t forget to check out the Q&A with President Armstrong on page 8! Cornel N. Morton Vice President for Student Affairs
Jean DeCosta Dean of Students
Kiyana Tabrizi Associated Students Inc., President Cal Poly ASI President for 2011-2012 school year.
“I plan to be utilized as a resource and connect students with the information that is most important to them in gaining a better college experience,” Tabrizi said.
Bonnie Murphy Executive Director of the Cal Poly Corporation & Associate Vice President of Commerical Services
Robert Koob Provost & Interim Vice President for University Advancement
Other people new students should make sure to get to know on campus: Their academic and department advisers The chair of their department
Musty the Mustang Mascot
William “Bill” Watton Chief of Police
Don Oberhelman Athletics Director
Their resident adviser (RA), community adviser (CA) and coordinator of student development (CSD) mustangdaily.net / 23
can write a statement about why he or she thinks the information is false and give an account of what the truth is according to him or her. This statement will be included with the record permanently. A student’s right to make amendments only applies to facts. Disagreements about grades, evaluations or other subjective material are not protected by FERPA.
Fees, freedoms, and FERPA* what you need to know
Academic records are shared between the university and the student. If another person or organization wants to view these documents, the student must provide written consent. This rule does not apply to personnel considered “school officials”— people with a reasonable need to see the information like school doctors, teachers, etc. Specifics about who is considered a “school official” must be provided by the school if asked.
There are a few exceptions to the disclosure rule. It is not necessary to receive the student’s consent if: He or she has applied to another school, and that school wants to view the records It is used to determine financial aid The student’s parents claim him or her as a dependent and wish to see the information It is a health or safety emergency The student is under 21 and in legal trouble It is considered directory information (name, phone number, major, etc.)
*The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974
Haley Petersen haleypetersen.md @ gmail.com New Cal Poly students have to learn a lot very quickly. Learning will take place inside and outside of the classroom, through both textbooks and individual experiences. Before even entering the dorms, students can educate themselves about their rights as a Cal Poly student. All Cal Poly students are entitled to specific rights regarding their academic records. The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act, abbreviated as FERPA, was passed in 1974 as a federal law. This act is intended to give students a degree of control and security by granting them certain entitlements to access, amend or disclose personal academic information. “Education record” refers to any information that identifies a student, is associated with his or her academic history and is kept by a scholarly institution, which in this case is Cal Poly. Students are entitled to access all of these records. Course progress or grade reports are exempt from this rule if the student is currently enrolled in a class. Unless the teacher has kept a record of grades and progress, Cal Poly is not obligated to create one. Interested parties can request to examine their files, and the Cal Poly staff is required to disclose the information within 45 days. If there is inaccurate information in one of the documents, the student can ask to change the falsities. The Cal Poly staff can refuse to change it, in which case a hearing may occur. The student gets to decide whether he or she wants to take this next step. After the hearing, if the faculty still denies the change, the pupil
For more information, visit the U.S. Department of Education website.
Students are also entitled to other rights outside of FERPA. One way of fostering a diverse atmosphere at Cal Poly is through a nondiscrimination policy. As stated in the Policies on the Rights and Responsibilities of Individuals, Cal Poly cannot victimize anyone because of race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, physical or mental disability, medical condition or veteran status. Typically, about three to four students per year file complaints against faculty members or staff, said Martha Cody, director of Employment Equity. The most common complaint regards sexual harassment, followed by complaints about failure to accommodate a student with disabilities, she said. Individuals who experience any form of discrimination should report the act by filing a complaint with the Office of Employment Equity, located in building 33, room 290. Students are also encouraged to contact the Office of Student Ombuds Services in Kennedy Library, room 113. The Ombuds staff will listen to any issues a student might have and will help walk the individual through the available options for action or inaction. Student Ombuds Services are based on the pillars of informality, confidentiality, impartiality and independence. “We serve as a means of helping students navigate the various processes,” said David Conn, associate vice president for inclusive excellence and director of Ombuds Services. “We would try to understand the issue and let the student talk it through. We don’t advocate either for the student or for anybody else.” Unlike staff in other offices, Ombuds are not required to disclose mustangdaily.net / 25
any information or invite any third party input unless the matter is potentially threatening to the physical well-being of the informant or anyone else involved. Staff members in the Office of Employment Equity cannot guarantee complete confidentiality. “We try to keep it as discrete as possible,” Cody said. “But if someone comes to me with something that could be against the law, I have to disclose it. There is a legal duty to report.” In addition, students are entitled to factual information and teachers who are organized for class. Professors may express opinions in their courses, and students may be held accountable for knowing the information. However, if it is pertaining to subjective material, the pupil has the right to disagree with the teacher’s opinion without fear of repercussion. “At this point, the preponderance of issues coming in are academic,” Conn said. “That seems to be the biggest thing.” Like students, professors are expected to come to class focused and prepared. Each instructor is required to give students a syllabus
containing the professor’s name, phone number, hours that he or she will be available for office hours (designated time to help students), the office location, the title of any literature that will be required reading in the class, a statement of purpose for the course, the style and how often tests will be given, what is required before enrolling in the class and grading standards. If a student is not given the aforementioned material, does not think the professor gave significant and relevant instruction that relates to the purpose of the course or thinks the teacher is consistently unprepared for class, the student can issue a complaint with the Cal Poly Fairness Board, according to the Cal Poly Academic Senate website. Cal Poly also complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act. All programs and resources, including information technology services, are made accessible to any individual with a disability. This applies to all university services, programs, events, employment, resources and activities.
It is also a student’s right to know what he or she is paying for. There are a few main fees that every individual attending Cal Poly should know about: Tuition Covers the costs of classes, which includes materials, resources, amenities and teaching
Campus academic fee Funds a university project that examines the quality of education, student progress and the university’s level of productivity
Associated student fee Pays for the Children’s Center, athletic scholarships, the programs run through Student Community Services and student government programs
Instructionally related activities fee Sustains various campus programs including the Cal Poly radio station, intramural sports, art exhibits, agricultural activities, drama and music
Health services fee Covers the cost of medical consultations at the campus Health Services Department
Cal Poly ID Card fee Funds all of the services associated with Poly Cards — these include campus dining, entrance to the Recereation Center, access to free transportation on local buses and library services
University Union fee Supports the operation of the University Union and all that it entails as far as staffing and administration. A portion of this fee is also used for some campus-wide sports and gym maintenance Freshmen will also be required to pay fees for student housing and meal plans. These fees will vary depending upon where a student lives and which meal plan he or she selects. For more information, please visit the U.S. Department of Education, Cal Poly Academic Senate and Cal Poly Administration & Finance Division websites. 26 / mustangdaily.net
WOW Preview
Don’t to sign forget up for Week of Welcome Cal Pol , y ’s FA LL orientation program !
What Cal Poly has in store for the fall Week of Welcome, or WOW as it’s commonly known, is a great opportunity for new Cal Poly students. The week includes five days jam-packed with activities, workshops, making new friends and seminars to help students get involved with campus life. Students participating in WOW (known as “wowies” during the week) are split into groups of approximately 10 to 12 and led by two student leaders.
Margaret Pack mpack90@gmail.com “It’s all about helping you with the transition to college life,” said psychology senior and WOW 2012 executive board member Bryanna Lindgren. “I knew from the second day of being a wowie that I wanted to be a WOW leader,” Lindgren said. “My leaders were really cool and they boosted my confidence, and so I really wanted to pass on how they made me feel to a group of wowies. I wanted to have the same impact that they had on me. And so that’s the reason I became a WOW leader, because I had such a good experience.” Lindgren said she was so caught up with WOW when she was a freshman that it completely distracted her from being homesick. “I had no time to think about missing home or not knowing anyone because I was so distracted by meeting new people and doing all these fun things that it made the transition really easy,” she said. “My mom was eager to know what I was up to but I was already off doing my own thing. Flying out of the nest, I guess.”
Here are just a few of WOW’s well-known highlights:
WOW-A-RAMA “All the incoming students get together on one field at Cal Poly playing all these interactive games and icebreaker activities to get them out of their comfort zone and meet a bunch of new people, all in about two hours. You probably meet at least 50 people — at least— I don’t even know how many I met when I was a freshman.”
Awareness presentations “There are a bunch of awareness topics covered that students or their friends might face during college, to help them prepare for them if they come up. These are topics such as alcohol, drugs, eating disorders, overall stress and mental health. The main thing is having that awareness to try to prepare incoming students for the struggles they or their friends may face.”
28 / mustangdaily.net
Day of Service “WOW leaders sign their individual groups up to go and volunteer in the community,” Lindgren said. “We end up saving our community a ton of money by just putting in two or three hours of community service. It’s all over the place — wherever we’re needed, just a way to get the wowies involved in the community and to care about the community they now live in. That way, they realize they’re not just a part of the Cal Poly community, but also the San Luis Obispo community.”
SLO Bound “San Luis Obispo businesses have booths to showcase what their venues offer and WOW leaders take their wowies on individualized tours and show them around downtown San Luis Obispo. It’s a good promotion for businesses because everyone will point out what their favorite spot is or things that wowies might not know about. Wowies also get to pick up a bunch free stuff from businesses along the way!”
Evening Entertainment “In the past, wowies have enjoyed evening entertainment such as a hypnotist show, the school comedian group Smile and Nod, watching movies under the stars (and) going to bonfires.”
CUstomized activities with your group “Each pair of WOW leaders plans an individualized schedule for the week and do unique activities with their group. This can include anything from kayaking to bowling to hiking or going to the beach.”
About the Future WOW Leaders “Your WOW leaders went through more than 40 hours of training preparing for Week of Welcome. They’re getting ready and have been planning your fun schedule all summer and are excited to meet you in September!” WOW 2011 will occur from September 14 through 18. For additional WOW information, check out the Week of Welcome
website: at www.studentlife.calpoly.edu/orientation/wow.