WOW edition 2016

Celebrating 100 years of delivering the news

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10 Places to go during your first week in San Luis Obispo

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How to banish your freshman year fears

Check out Page 14 to find out how you can win FREE pizza!

Saturday, September 17, 2016

WEEK OF WELCOME | 2

MUSTANG NEWS Graphic Arts Building 26, Suite 226 California Polytechnic State University San Luis Obispo, CA 93407

Gurpreet Bhoot

@gurpy15

CONTACT EDITORIAL (805) 756-1796 ADVERTISING (805) 756-1143 CLASSIFIED (805) 756-1143 FAX (805) 756-6784

EDITORS & STAFF EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Celina Oseguera MANAGING EDITORS Gurpreet Bhoot, Olivia Proffit BROADCAST NEWS DIRECTOR Chloe Carlson DIRECTORS OF OUTREACH AND ENGAGEMENT Cara Benson, Hannah Avdalovic NEWS EDITOR Naba Ahmed ARTS EDITOR Gina Randazzo SPORTS EDITOR Ayrton Ostly BROADCAST SPORT PRODUCER Clara Knapp BROADCAST SPORTS DIRECTOR Allison Edmonds SPECIAL SECTIONS COORDINATORS Suha Saya, Kristine Xu PHOTO EDITOR Chris Gateley OPINION EDITOR Neil Sandhu HEAD DESIGNER Zack Spanier OUTREACH COORDINATORS Hayley Sakae, Claire Blachowski WEB DEVELOPER Jon Staryuk

GURPREET BHOOT | COURTESY PHOTO

Two worlds coming together to tell one story picture books. We wanted to see that prince slay the dragon and see that little boy hug a tree. The moment we were forced to throw out our pretty pictures and pick up a chapter book was crushing.

Devastating. Chapter books were “boring” and too “grown up.”

From that moment on, it was textbooks and novels and screenplays and more and more books without pictures.

Do you ever feel nostalgic and miss those picture books from your childhood? At Mustang News, we do. That’s because we understand our words become much more meaningful when a visual can bring them to life.

This is not to be misinterpreted — at the heart of every news story is the news. We need to tell our audience what is going on in the world. We need to report on the good, the bad and the ugly.

We need to dig deep and expose hidden truths. We need to show our audience what is going on around them.

Without a story, there can be no visuals. But without the visuals, the story is not finished.

Visuals compel readers. Headlines catch their attention and

COPY EDITORS Quinn Fish, Bryce Aston, Andi DiMatteo DESIGNERS Kylie Everitt, Aaron Matsuda, Tanner Layton

Gurpreet Bhoot and Olivia Proffit

We need to be the storytellers we say we are. That’s not an easy feat.

Our job as a news organization is to inform. We are trained to give our audience the information they need to make educated decisions.

There’s a formula for that: find a story, report on the story, publish the story. But, how should we chose to publish the story? That’s the most important part. That’s when we become storytellers.

It’s easy to assume that a story is simply made up of 500 words that tell you what you need to hear.

And it’s easy to get carried away with the visuals that catch your eye. But a story is not just a set of words or pretty pictures; it’s both.

Words need visuals and visuals need words. Without one or the other, a story is not complete.

As this year’s Mustang News managing editors, our goal is to deliver you stories in the most optimal way possible, and that means combining our writers’ skills with our multimedia journalists’ skills to tell the perfect story.

A story without visuals loses its flavor. It’s as simple as that.

As children, we were drawn to

STAFF REPORTERS Sydney Harder, Megan Schellong, James Hayes, Connor McCarthy, Elena Wasserman, Allison Royal, Cecilia Seiter, Brendan Matsuyama, Austin Linthicum, Sabrina Thompson, Nicole Horton, Carly Quinn, Greg Llamas, Olivia Doty, Frances Mylod-Vargas, Mikaela Duhs, Francois Rucki, Tyler Schilling, Erik Engle, Michael Frank, Tommy Tran

content provides them with the details, but visuals keep them attracted. Photos, videos, infographics, all of these tools enhance the storytelling experience.

Readers can interact with the story by hovering over images to read different captions of what is happening in the picture.

Through audio elements, they can hear the journalist’s interview.

With videos, they can see the subject of the story working in their element. Infographics present them with the important details that are better understood visually than through written content.

But multimedia cannot stand alone, it needs content to give it context. Visual components strengthen stories, telling them in the most optimal way possible.

Words tell. Infographics inform.

Pictures show. Polls engage. Tell, inform, show, engage. As a news organization, it is our responsibility to do all of these things.

Without visuals, content loses its fire. Without content, visuals have no meaning. We need to use both to tell the perfect story. And that’s exactly what we plan to do.

We are going to be the storytellers we say we are.

OPINION COLUMNISTS Elias Atienza, Brendan Abrams, Brandon Bartlett PHOTOGRAPHERS Matthew Lalanne, Sophia O’Keefe, Hanna Crowley, Samantha Mulhern, Andrew Epperson, Christa Lam, Kara Douds, Iliana Arroyos ILLUSTRATOR Roston Johnson ADVERTISING MANAGERS Maddie Spivek, Kristen Corey ART DIRECTOR Erica Patstone PRODUCTION MANAGER Ellen Fabini MARKETING MANAGER Ross Pfeifer ADVERTISING CONSULTANTS Clara Howley, Levi Adissi, Trevor Murchison, Carryn Powers ADVERTISING DESIGNERS Jacqui Luis, Habib Placencia, Kelly Chiu DISTRIBUTION MANAGER Dylan Ring FACULTY ADVISOR Pat Howe GENERAL MANAGER Paul Bittick

WRITE A LETTER Mustang News reserves the right to edit letters for grammar, profanities and length. Letters, commentaries and cartoons do not represent the views of Mustang News. Please limit length to 700 words. Letters should include the writer’s full name, phone number, major and class standing. Letters must come from a Cal Poly email account. Do not send letters as an attachment. Please send the text in the body of the email.

EMAIL editor@mustangnews.net ADVERTISING EMAIL advertising@mustangnews.net MAIL Letters to the Editor Building 26, Room 226 Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, CA 93407

Olivia Proffit

@ojproffit

ONLINE mustangnews.net

CORRECTIONS Mustang News takes pride in publishing daily news for the Cal Poly campus and the neighboring community. We appreciate your readership and are thankful for your careful reading. Please send your correction suggestions to editor@ mustangnews.net.

NOTICES Mustang News is a “designated public forum.” Student editors have full authority to make all content decisions without censorship or advance approval.

Printed by UNIVERSITY GRAPHIC SYSTEMS ugs@calpoly.edu Mustang News is a member of Associated Collegiate Press, California Newspaper Publishers Association, College Newspaper Business and Advertising Managers and College Media Advisors.

Saturday, September 17, 2016 Publishing since 1916 2016 WOW edition

OLIVIA PROFFIT | COURTESY PHOTO

“I’m going to photoshop the dicks outta my face.”

Saturday, September 17, 2016

WEEK OF WELCOME | 3

Making the most of your

WOW

experience

NEW STUDENT AND TR ANSITION PROGR AMS | COURTESY PHOTO

Sydney Harder @CPMustangNews

Week of Welcome, more commonly known as WOW, is noted as a rite of passage for incoming Cal Poly freshmen. Facilitated by enthusiastic student leaders, the week-long festivities help students with the often intimidating transition to college life and their establishment of a new home in San Luis Obispo. Don’t take WOW for granted — let the motto “You Only WOW Once” characterize your adventures and mindset for the week.

WOW activities were planned with you in mind Curators of fun and friendship, the WOW leaders of Fall 2016 have trained for months for your arrival, carefully scheduling excursions and activities dedicated to helping you assimilate to college.

“It’s important to welcome freshmen into the Mustang life

and way with pride, charac- torious college party hub, but ter and responsibility because there is only one week to bond (WOW) is really a special expe- with your fellow “WOWies” and rience,” WOW leader and politi- bask in the fun before fall quarcal science sophomore Brandon ter begins.

Bone said.

Instead of moseying through the day with your own agenda in mind, attend as many of the activities scheduled for your I know more friends WOW group as possible. than I can count on my You wouldn’t want to miss out on watching a hand that still hang out sunset, hiking the bounwith their WOW group. tiful nature trails around campus and kayaking (an It’s like a family. unspoken WOW tradition) with all your peers eager to BRANDON BONE begin this chapter of their life at Cal Poly.

“I know more friends than I can count on my hand that still hang “This is your only time in out with their WOW group. It’s college to enjoy so many free like a family,” Bone said. activities and to explore. Make sure you’re doing it right,” forResist the temptation to mer WOW leader and art and attend a party design junior Kelli Chollar said.

You have four years to tread Moreover, Chollar explains down Hathway Avenue, the no- how WOW leaders often plan

the “most fun in the evening” and keep their WOW groups busy long after the sun has set.

“The more students that stay, the more fun it will be,” Bone said.

After hours of socializing and walking, whatever energy you have left should best be diverted to climbing in bed in anticipation for the next jam-packed day.

Don’t ignore the serious talks While the fun never seems to stop during WOW, there are times when it is best to shed the light-hearted antics.

WOW incorporates an awareness program that addresses issues afflicting college campuses nation-wide, including sexual assault, gender violence, drugs and alcohol abuse and the lack of inclusion and diversity.

“These are real issues,” Chollar said. “We just need to talk about them and make them normalized.”

WOWies can expect to participate in several interactive exhibits aimed at shedding light on these problems and shaping a proactive attitude to combat them.

Keep an open mind and heart Though it may be a daunting task to overcome, stepping out of your comfort zone to make connections and network with others is vital to having a wholesome WOW experience. “(WOW) doesn’t quite force you out of your bubble, but it does push you by meeting new people and promoting students to work with one another and talk with one another,” Bone said.

WOW leaders encourage this socialization by “asking thought-provoking questions (and) bringing groups together to share things because of the presentations and videos they’ve seen,” Chollar said.

While your WOW leaders will provide the stepping stone, it is ultimately up to you to

take the initiative to forge new friendships by actively contributing to group discussions and branching out.

When it’s all over, take the WOW spirit with you As WOW comes to a close and fall classes begin, there will inevitably come a time when anxieties and doubts threaten to surface again.

Just remember that you’re already ahead of the game.

“What (WOW) really taught me was how to have an open mind and be prepared for challenges,” Chollar said. “In learning that, I learned that there will be things I’m not familiar with and that’s okay.”

By embracing the lessons you learned and the steps you take throughout the week; you’ll be on your way to familiarizing yourself with your new home and becoming a blossoming embodiment of Cal Poly’s Learn by Doing philosophy.

NEW STUDENT AND TR ANSITION PROGR AMS | COURTESY PHOTO W O W IE S

| The WOW activities freshmen and transfers will experience run the gamut. These activities include roller skating, bowling, silent discos and more outdoorsy activities like kayaking.

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WEEK OF WELCOME | 4

Jana Colombini takes the ASI presidential reigns Megan Schellong @meganschellong

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Plans for leadership “She doesn’t hold her own ideas to the highest, but (rather) any new ideas that’ll help Cal Poly,” mechanical engineering senior and ASI presidential opponent Isaias Diaz said.

One of Colombini’s goals as ASI president is to increase communication between the ASI president and students. She’s already begun that task by creating an ASI president Snapchat for students to gain a greater understanding of ASI. “It’s a 10 second way students can be informed on what’s going on,” Colombini said.

The Snapchat account will foster greater communication between the entirety of ASI and contribute to increased transparency.

“She is the one that is wanting freedom for students and she likes to fly above the drama and hate. She really likes to be perched in, watching what happens to take everything in,” ASI Chief of Staff and philosophy senior Anthony Haddad said.

Because Cal Poly’s student fees are one of the highest in the California State University system, Colombini feels students deserve to know exactly what ASI does for the students.

With Colombini’s goal to increase transparency as one of three of her campaign components of “Care, Communicate and Connect,” she also has other activities on her San Luis Obispo bucket list to complete before graduation.

“I’ve never done the tri-tip challenge before, so definitely that,” Colombini said.

Colombini is now the seventh of her family to attend Cal Poly and the second to hold the ASI presidential title, after her brother Jason. However, she is determined to leave her own impact on Cal Poly’s student body.

“Yes, my brother was ASI president, but we are both really good at shaping our own lives and our own legacies,” Colombini said.

This upcoming year, Colombini will bring her tenacity and enthusiasm for Cal Poly in an effort to care, communicate and connect with the campus.

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Where her source of inspiration comes from As the incoming ASI president, Colombini will serve as the role model she aspires to be, with much of her inspiration stemming from her mother — a breast cancer survivor — who continued to attend Colombini’s soccer games amidst her recovery.

“She’s a stay-at-home mom and she treats it like a job, and she rocks at it,” Colombini said.

One of Colombini’s favorite memories of her mother traces back to their Easter traditions.

Her mother would hide eggs in the living room for her and her brother, leaving clues, Starbucks gift cards and candy bars along the way.

Life outside of school Outside of her family life, Colombini makes time for friends even with her busy schedule as a student body representative.

When she has free time, Colombini watches Netflix, hikes or plays video games like “Lego Batman” with her close friend, animal science senior Ashley Nowlin.

“She’s currently ‘President Robin’ in my phone right now,” Nowlin said.

The pair met during their freshman year and bonded over their mutual knowledge for the video game, “The Sims.”

“When we greet each other, we do our handshake and screech words from ‘The Sims.’ People give us strange looks, but we don’t care,” Nowlin said.

Nowlin and Colombini’s friendship is a unique one, and they remained close during Colombini’s campaign and even after.

In addition to providing support to her friends, Nowlin said she admired Colombini most for her management of a hectic election schedule spring quarter.

“I was proud Jana was able to

survive the stress of a campaign and when she needed her game face on, she could put it on,” Nowlin said.

While Colombini’s ability to juggle multiple tasks at once is one trait seen as admirable by her friends, her leadership qualities and openness to new ideas also don’t go unnoticed.

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“As long as I’ve got my Mustang Way bracelet and my peanut butter crackers, I’m good for the morning,” 2016-17 Associated Students, Inc. (ASI) President and agricultural sciences senior Jana Colombini said.

Every day, Colombini leaves the house with her Mustang Way bracelet as a symbol of the pride, character and responsibility it represents.

“It’s just a little reminder to me that people are looking to see what I’m doing and that I can be a positive example,” she said.

While Colombini and her brother may roll their eyes at their mother’s gesture to hide the eggs every year, Colombini said she appreciates it nonetheless and incorporates the same eagerness to her job as ASI president.

Yes, my brother was ASI president, but we are both really good at shaping our own lives and our own legacies.

JANA COLOMBINI

Saturday, September 17, 2016

WEEK OF WELCOME | 5

Introducing the members of Cal Poly administration for 2016-17 Administration and Finance Senior Vice President for Administration and Finance Cynthia Vizcaíno Villa will complete her first full year with Cal Poly this year. Villa oversees accounting and business functions, facilities, public safety, Cal Poly Corporation, the Christopher Cohan Performing Arts Center (PAC) and Human Resources. This year, Villa said she is most looking forward to launching new software to improve preventive measures, reducing the cost of operations, reviewing the facilities to see where improvement can be made and the new staff housing at the corner of Grand Avenue and Slack Street.

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Cal Poly Corporation Cal Poly Corporation Executive Director and Assistant Vice President of Commercial Services Lorlie Leetham has been with Cal Poly for 17 years, but will serve her third year as the head of Cal Poly Corporation this year. Leetham oversees the University Store, Campus Dining and sponsored programs. She coordinates vendors for the corporation and ensures the corporation improves faculty, student and staff success. This year, Leetham said she is most looking forward to seeing the university bookstore improvements, the new facility development and the new management group overseeing Campus Dining.

Photo Credit: (1) Cynthia Vizcaíno Villa, (2) Kelly Azel, (3) Office of the Provost, (4) file photo, (5) file photo, (6) Adam Jarman, (7) Jo Campbell, (8) Office of the Vice President

University Housing Executive Director of University Housing Jo Campbell will start her first term with Cal Poly this year. She is responsible for managing the three primary components of University Housing — including residential life and education, administration and facilities. These departments include on-campus student staff hiring such as resident advisors, marketing assignments for campus housing and organizing the housing depot and renovations. Some of the newest buildings this year include the lofts in downtown San Luis Obispo that house students working on entrepreneurship. This year, Campbell is most excited to meet new students.

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Office of the Provost Provost & Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs Kathleen Enz Finken oversees the Division of Academic Affairs. She offers strategy and direction for the leadership teams, faculty and staff in each of the six colleges, as well as the Office of the Registrar, Kennedy Library, University Advising and Financial Aid, to name a few of the many departments. She also communicates with University Development, Student Affairs and each college’s dean to ensure student success. Finken’s work has a direct impact on students’ majors, minors and concentrations. In an e-mail, Enz Finken said she is most looking forward to meeting new faculty members and seeing the new instructional facilities develop on campus.

Megan Schellong @meganschellong

Student Affairs Vice President for Student Affairs Keith Humphrey is the head of orientation, housing, campus health, campus clubs and organizations and Associated Students, Inc. (ASI). As the leader of these sectors, he ensures all the departments work together to create a positive student experience. In addition to organizing each of these branches, Humphrey is a member of the president’s leadership team. As a member, he discusses policies with President Armstrong and how decisions will impact student retention, graduation and success.

This year, Humphrey is looking forward to the excitement of the incoming freshmen class and developing the next plan for student affairs.

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Office of the President As the face of the university, President Jeffrey D. Armstrong is in charge of setting the direction and strategy for the university. This will be his sixth year as the president of the university. Armstrong is responsible for communicating with the California State University (CSU) Chancellor and CSU Board of Trustees. This year, Armstrong said he is most looking forward to everything from Week of Welcome (WOW) to graduation.

4 Office of Diversity and Inclusivity Interim Executive Director of Diversity and Inclusivity Jean DeCosta has been with the university for 22 years and will be retiring this fall. The chief diversity officer is in charge of communicating with leaders across campus that oversee clubs.

The officer collects information from the club representatives to discuss how Cal Poly can improve the campus climate.

In this position, the officer is also responsible for tracking diversity and inclusion and moving those initiatives forward.

This year, DeCosta said she is most excited to lay the groundwork for her successor so that he or she will have the materials needed to proceed with the action plan for the academic year.

University Development Associate Vice President and Senior Director of Development Adam Jarman is a representative of the university to the community of donors.

Jarman is a journalism alumnus of Cal Poly who graduated in 2002. He has been with University Development, previously University Advancement, for more than 11 years. He is responsible for securing private support to Cal Poly. He works closely with alumni and other donors to support faculty and staff. This year, Jarman said he is most looking forward to WOW and commencement.

Saturday, September 17, 2016

WEEK OF WELCOME | 6

10

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places to go during your first week in San Luis Obispo

Sabrina Thompson @sabrinaswriting

Knock down some pins at Mustang Lanes

Visit the Farmers’ Market

One unique feature of Cal Poly is the bowling alley right on campus. Spending a round at the one and only bowling alley in town with your new group of friends is a great way to bond, and helps relieve the stress of move-in weekend. Mustang Lanes is open from 5-10 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday and noon to 10 p.m. on Sunday.

If you don’t have classes on Thursday night, head downtown for the San Luis Obispo Farmers’ Market. Get some fresh groceries for your new place and embrace the crowded streets with music and great food. Local businesses take this opportunity to push their best deals on you, so it is an easy way to get discounts on some of the more expensive places in our city.

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GURPREET BHOOT | MUSTANG NE WS

ILIANA ARROYOS | MUSTANG NE WS

Hike the “P” If you love the outdoors, hiking can be one of the first things to do when you get to campus. Right off campus is the “P” — a concrete 50-by-30 foot letter at the top of a reasonably climbable hill. While it has been debated why it was formed, its rich history and incredible view of campus is worth the climb.

GURPREET BHOOT | MUSTANG NE WS

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Saturday, September 17, 2016

WEEK OF WELCOME | 7

Catch a movie at Sunset Drive-In

Eat at Firestone Grill

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Known as a popular grill downtown, Firestone’s barbecue style servings are a great way to start your time in San Luis Obispo. Its tri-tip sandwiches are fresh, and the friendly service is sure to brighten your day. Take on the Tri-Tip challenge, one of San Luis Obispo’s hiking traditions, by hiking all three peaks in San Luis Obispo — Madonna, Bishop Peak and the “P” — in one day and follow it up with a tri-tip sandwich from Firestone. This can also be a great place to get to know your new classmates over a delicious meal.

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GURPREET BHOOT | MUSTANG NE WS

ILIANA ARROYOS | MUSTANG NE WS

See beauty at the University Art Gallery

Relax at the Leaning Pine Arboretum Right on campus lies five acres of trees, bushes and other landscape plants.

Changing with each season, the arboretum is a place that encourages exploration and relaxation. Fountains and small lawns provide a little escape from the city.

Located on the north side of campus, the arboretum is open Monday to Saturday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. with free admission.

The garden is maintained by Cal Poly students and remains a beautiful place on campus to learn about plants that are native to the California Coast.

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ILIANA ARROYOS | MUSTANG NE WS

Located underneath the Walter F. Dexter building right by the library, Cal Poly features student and professional work in the University Art Gallery. Admission is free and the exhibit is open to the public Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Check out the ever changing creativity of Cal Poly students.

Located downtown on Higuera Street, this alley between Broad and Garden streets is covered in chewed up bubble gum. While this may sound gross and unsanitary, it is a longstanding tradition in San Luis Obispo.

Among the gum you can find wrappers and business cards or old receipts and movie tickets. Visitors have helped build the layers of gum for several decades and the decorated alley has also been featured on TV shows, in music, poetry and several news publications as a very special attraction in San Luis Obispo.

ILIANA ARROYOS | MUSTANG NE WS

Go line dancing at The Graduate One of the few times freshmen will be allowed in a bar is on Country Night at The Graduate. This small bar downtown opens its doors at 8 p.m. every Thursday night for anyone over 18 to enjoy some country music and learn how to dance from Cal Poly’s Line Dancing Club. For those under 21 it’s $10 for admission, and for those 21 and over it is $5 for admission. Lessons are given beforehand at 8 p.m. and line dancing goes from 9 p.m. to 2 a.m.

GURPREET BHOOT | MUSTANG NE WS

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ILIANA ARROYOS | MUSTANG NE WS

Put your piece on Bubblegum Alley

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Sunset is a step back into the past. The drive-in movie theater is a wonderful way to see old classics and recent blockbusters. With admission at $8, it is a cheaper way to catch some of the most popular movies. Using your car radio, or a portable one, you can tune in and view the show from the comfort of your car. Pack the car with friends and food and get ready for an exciting night out.

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Sit at Front Porch

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Right off campus behind the Health Center is a small cafe that is only open to Cal Poly and Cuesta students. Run by a local church and staffed by volunteers, the coffee house provides free food, coffee, tea, Wi-Fi and a place to study and connect with fellow students. Dinners are provided once a week and the building also has multiple study rooms and seating options for those looking for a place to study or simply engage in friendly conversation.

CELINA OSEGUERA | MUSTANG NE WS

october 6th 11 am–2 pm mott lawn

Like Mustang News on Facebook! facebook.com/cpmustangnews

Saturday, September 17, 2016

WEEK OF WELCOME | 9

and enjoy Cal Poly residence hall life MUSTANG NE WS FILE PHOTO

Carly Quinn @carlyquinnMN

No matter what your situation was at home, moving into the residence halls freshman year is a brand new and very different experience than living at home.

Maybe you’ve never shared a room before, or maybe you’ve never had to wear shoes in a shower. It might scare you that there’s only one TV for the whole building, or maybe sleeping in a building full of complete strangers is what gets under your skin.

Regardless of what your worries are, everyone around you is feeling the exact same way.

College is a jump for everyone. Residence hall life may be daunting, so here are a few veterans sharing their advice from

freshman year.

“Unforgettable” was the word liberal arts and engineering studies senior BJ Yebisu used to describe his freshman year living in Sierra Madre Tower 2.

“It was probably the best freshman year experience I could have had,” Yebisu said. “I like how different it is from home; it’s like a breath of fresh air.”

Sharing bathrooms was the biggest transition for him, and he stresses the importance of bringing your room key everywhere. Being locked out of your room in a towel is not something you’re going to forget.

Environmental management and protections junior Conor McKay said connecting with people is the best thing you can do with your time in the residence halls.

“There is no other opportunity in life to be surrounded by people in the same situation as you.” McKay said.

Living in Yosemite Tower 5 as a freshman, McKay went on to be a resident advisor (RA) for the same tower the following year. He said becoming an RA was a great way to make connections and to further involve himself on campus.

Simple things like leaving your door open or heading over to grab some food with other people in your hall makes it seamless to make friends. Living in the resident halls exposes freshmen to people with different majors, compared to only meeting people in classes, which tend to mostly be comprised of people in one major.

And if you can’t seem to meet

MUSTANG NE WS FILE PHOTO

anyone else, you’ll always have your roommate.

Transitioning into living with another person in such close quarters may be hard, especially for those who have never had to share a room before.

The most important thing to remember across all boards is respect. Go over the roommate agreement given to you by your RA, and agree on some general rules for sharing the room. This could include lights on and off times, rules on having guests or how loud music can be played.

Keep in mind that your roommate doesn’t have to be your best friend. It’s perfectly normal to have completely different lives and friends, as long as the situation is civil. Counseling services are offered through multiple university entities to mediate any

problems that may arise.

While your roommate may not be your best friend, you can certainly find your best friend or future roommates through residence hall living. Landscape architecture sophomore Gianna Pray said she found her social group while living in the Fremont residence hall.

“Don’t change yourself to impress new people,” Pray said.

“Ride the wave and go with it until it’s comfortable.”

Health is another concern that may not have crossed your mind as much while living at home.

Close quarters such as the residence hall makes it easy for sickness to spread rapidly.

Make sure to eat for every meal, regardless of the homework load. Get a quick quesadilla at Tacos To-Go to munch

MUSTANG NE WS FILE PHOTO

on, or a salad and coffee from Julian’s Cafe.

Staying hydrated and maintaining a well-rounded diet are key to staying healthy, so bringing a water bottle everywhere you go is another small step to help you out when you don’t have time to feel sick.

Cal Poly Housing Services provides students with any help they may need for living on campus. Counseling and other student services are also available. If you are unsure of where to go with any issue you have, Student Ombuds Service can help steer you in the right direction.

In the end, freshman year is as cliché as it gets; it’s what you make of it. Go for what you want when you want it, because it’ll be over before you know it.

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Be mindful of your Plu$ Dollar budget Nicole Horton @CPMustangNews

SOPHIA O’KEEFE | MUSTANG NE WS

Every year, Cal Poly welcomes nearly 5,000 freshmen. Arriving on campus with their polished PolyCards in hand, these eager students are ready to fully embrace their new lifestyle. As of last year, freshman PolyCards are equipped solely with Plu$ Dollars — $1,466 Plu$ Dollars each quarter for those living in the residence halls, $1,118 for those living in Cerro Vista or Poly Canyon Village Apartments. This method allows for flexibility, but also demands more budgeting.

Many options are available when it comes to how and where to spend your Plu$ Dollars. Though Vista Grande, the most popular late-night food stop amongst freshmen, will be undergoing construction during the 2016-17 school year, the remaining dining facilities on campus will be new and improved by the start of the fall term, allowing for an easy transition for incoming students.

Cal Poly will even boast two new food trucks — one serving food and the other serving Starbucks drinks, which can be

tracked using a Twitter hashtag come the start of the school year.

With all these new options, it is important for students to know where their Plu$ Dollars are going, so they can ensure they will have enough to last them the entire school year.

To keep track of dining expenditures, biological sciences junior Keila Wedow, suggests downloading the “Plu$ Dollars” app.

This app allows students to check their current Plu$ Dollar balance, as well as view their dining history, and see the hours and locations of all dining facilities on campus.

“It’s important to check the app frequently so that you won’t be surprised when the quarter’s coming to an end,” Wedow said.

“Using the app, I’d suggest calculating your remaining balance and then based on how many days are left in the quarter, creating a daily budget.”

If students find themselves almost out of Plu$ Dollars midway through the quarter, there are a few ways to work around it.

19 Metro Station, Cal Poly’s one and only all-you-can eat restaurant, only charges students

$4.50, which offers students a great alternative to the more expensive grab-and-go stops.

Or students can make their way to Campus Market. Eating every meal on campus can quickly add up, so some students may choose to buy their items in bulk.

For instance, instead of purchasing an individual serving of cereal and a miniature carton of milk at The Avenue on your way to class, it might be wise for students to pick up a large box of cereal and a half-gallon of milk at Campus Market to keep inside their residence hall or apartment refrigerator. Fixing up quick meals in the residence halls is an easy way to save money throughout the quarter.

While Campus Market offers students a wide array of fresh fruits and vegetables, these items often come with a hefty price tag.

For those who want to keep fresh produce in their diets, while still staying on budget, check out Cal Poly’s frozen yogurt shop, Yogurt Creations.

This frozen yogurt shop is a popular spot for students to treat themselves to a tasty snack, but many people often overlook its extensive topping bar. Instead

of paying nearly $8 for a small carton of berries, students might think about heading on over to Yogurt Creations, going straight to the topping bar and filling their cup with fresh fruit to keep in their rooms for later.

For some, overspending might be a hurdle, but for a few students, it’s the exact opposite.

Biochemistry sophomore Molly Gaddis, found herself in a sticky situation spring quarter of her freshman year.

“I had over $1,000 in Plu$ Dollars to spend in two weeks, because I was out-of-town for a few weekends, so I ended up having everyone in my dorm use my card because there was no way I could spend that amount on my own in such a short time,” Gaddis said.

To avoid this issue, it is important for students to not only know their average daily spending, but also be aware of the time they plan on spending away from campus.

Staying on top of dining expenses will definitely take some getting used to, but knowing the resources, as well as thrifty dining alternatives, will definitely ease the process.

WEEK OF WELCOME | 10

Saturday, September 17, 2016 SAMMI MULHERN | MUSTANG NE WS

San Luis Obispo’s

BEST James Hayes @jimbles_hayes

For many Cal Poly students, fitting in 25-35 hours of studying a week is difficult with busy schedules. For others, the bigger challenge is finding where to spend those hours. Whether you prefer sunny beaches and mountain tops or quiet cafes, San Luis Obispo is home to beautiful landscapes and unique urban settings that provide ample environments for students to study.

Kreuzberg Kreuzberg is a popular study spot for many students, as well as a casual hang out spot with an excellent atmosphere. This unique coffee shop gives students a little taste of Europe with its carefully crafted beverages — complete with latte art — and creates a pleasant atmosphere for students hitting the books.

This cafe offers both indoor and outdoor seating, complete with unique and stylized decorations that make a creative and refreshing study environment.

Kreuzberg also has a variety of sandwiches and other snacks to fuel long study sessions.

Located in the heart of downtown, this coffee shop gets a lot of

attention from students as well as other members of the community. Kreuzberg gives students the perfect downtown atmosphere as well as creates a productive study environment.

Montaña de Oro For the students who take a more outdoorsy approach to studying and are willing to go a bit outside of San Luis Obispo, Montaña de Oro is the place to go. With sandy dunes, gorgeous bluffs and an all-around beautiful landscape, Montaña de Oro is a hidden treasure.

Tucked away in the town of Los Osos just west of San Luis Obispo, this beach is most known for Spooner’s Cove, a small beach with a campground, picnic tables and a great outdoor atmosphere to study in.

Montaña de Oro also offers a more secluded beach with dunes that stretch up and down the coast and trails leading through the bluffs. This beach is perfect for someone who enjoys being outside but also needs a quiet study space. The dunes are nesting places for the Snowy Plover, so a portion are protected and roped off, giving this beach a very untouched feel unlike many along the Central Coast.

study spots

With its array of natural environments, Montaña de Oro is a unique spot for students to visit and experience.

Front Porch Right behind Cal Poly’s Health Center, every poor college student’s dreams are realized.

Front Porch is not only a great spot to study — with long hours and free Wi-Fi — but it also gives free coffee and tea every day, as well as free meals on Wednesday evenings.

While many students are busy trying to budget for textbooks, classes and supplies, it may seem like there isn’t any room to spend money on coffee. Front Porch remedies that with volunteers who supply groggy students with their much needed jolt of caffeine.

However, the tales of free coffee and food have gone far and sometimes makes Front Porch a busy spot. Students wishing to take advantage of their free food, drink and Wi-Fi should make sure to arrive early.

SAMMI MULHERN | MUSTANG NE WS STUDYING UP

SAMMI MULHERN | MUSTANG NE WS

| Students have a variety of study spots to choose from.

CELINA OSEGUER A | MUSTANG NE WS

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Saturday, September 17, 2016

WEEK OF WELCOME | 13

How to banish your freshman year fears ZACK SPANIER | MUSTANG NE WS

Sydney Harder @CPMustangNews

The bustling campus seems surreal, almost larger than life, as you stand in the center of University Union, doe-eyed and ready to tackle the challenges accompanying fall quarter — or not.

Perhaps the rosy lens has faded and now college looms ominously ahead.

The onslaught of cloudy uncertainties in this turbulent sea of change are inevitable, but conquerable.

Academic advisors Martina Lasich and Cassie Pitkin at the Mustang Success Center put to rest some universal freshman phobias, providing the foundation for a successful first year.

Fear 1: “I’m not going to be able to keep up with the quarter system.”

With a dash of time management and a pinch of organization, the fast-paced nature of the quarter system will lose its daunting facade.

“By the end of the first week, every student should have a quarter planning sheet and it goes by the week, so you can map out every assignment and when it’s due,” Pitkin said. “Identifying those peak times (is) when you

will have to put your feet down and run a little faster.”

Lasich stressed the importance of finding a study schedule tailored specifically for you.

“Don’t procrastinate. Definitely figure out what sort of time management is going to work for you, whether it’s a calendar through your email or a physical calendar you put up on your wall,” Lasich said.

Fear 2: “I’m too nervous to approach my professors.”

Whether it’s to ask for clarification on an assignment or simply to introduce yourself, communicating with your professors is rarely as scary as you may imagine.

Pitkin emphasized to be transparent with your professors.

“Humility is huge here,” Pitkin said. “Going in and saying ‘I’m a little nervous to talk to you’ takes off that Band-aid a little bit.

The next time, they have a face established so it feels more like a conversation.”

It’s important for students to take the initiative of asking for help and avoiding suffering in silence, Lasich said.

“Ask for help, ask for help,”

Lasich said. “There are tons of people and resources here and you are expected to take ownership of that.”

Fear 3: “Isn’t it impossible to change majors?”

“It’s possible, but not guaranteed,” both Pitkin and Lasich said.

While Cal Poly has garnered a reputation for glueing students to their declared major track, changing majors can happen.

“It depends on a variety of things, like your GPA in your current major and if you were eligible for (the major you’re switching to) when you were admitted,” Pitkin said.

Additionally, workshops dedicated to demystifying the change of major process are held each quarter.

“If you think you have a question or you might have one, Mustang Success Center is a good place to start,” Lasich said.

Fear 4: “I don’t want to be stressed all the time.”

Juggling extracurricular responsibilities, a college workload and resident hall chores is not easy, but a balanced lifestyle

is achievable.

“There are over 300 clubs to get involved in,” Lasich said. “Making sure academics isn’t your only focus is crucial in finding that balance.”

Pitkin suggests writing a list of “negotiables,” such as social outings, and “non-negotiables,” like studying for an upcoming midterm, each morning in order to effectively plan each day.

When stress does seem to inhibit any productivity, take a step back and breathe.

“Exercise is a popular way many students unwind,” Lasich said.

There are also one-on-one counseling services available on campus to students in need of extra emotional support, alongside “workshops for meditation, weekly programs and group counseling” Lasich said.

Fear 5: “I’m afraid of being broke.”

San Luis Obispo boasts an array of shops, but perhaps the biggest money-spending pitfall is the plethora of foodie eats downtown.

“Eating out is the biggest part,” Lasich said. “Ten bucks here, 6 bucks there, it can add up.”

Pitkin recommends creating a “buddy system” to combat unnecessary spending.

“Find someone on a similar schedule as you are,” Pitkin said.

“Having someone that keeps you accountable … is incredibly helpful.”

Fear 6: “Will I find my circle of friends?”

When it comes to establishing new friendships, starting with a clean slate may feel disheart-

ening, but remember that a blank page — much like the beginning of this chapter in your life — requires time and patience before it is filled with meaningful words.

“It doesn’t happen overnight.

It takes time,” Lasich said. “The first people you meet don’t have to be your best friends.”

Lasich adds that “taking baby steps like keeping your door open in the residence halls so people can stop by and say hi” and remembering that everyone is in the same boat is key when getting to know your peers.

Both Pitkin and Lasich point out that it’s also important to not assume that everyone else is happy based on social media.

“Reflect inward, ‘Is this who I am? Is this who I want to be?’”

Pitkin said. “Because this is the time to recreate that.”

Show us where your WOW group adventures take you! Send @mustangnews a picture of your group with our snap ghost mascot, Spook!

The winning group will receive free Fatte’s Pizza courtesy of Mustang News! Winners will be announced September 25th and have their photo featured in our Back to School edition.

Saturday, September 17, 2016

WEEK OF WELCOME | 15

Go greek:

How to get involved with greek life FRATERNITY RECRUITMENT BEGINS ON SUNDAY, OCT. 9 AND IS FOLLOWED BY TWO RECRUITMENT BARBECUES ON MONDAY, OCT. 10 AND TUESDAY, OCT. 11.

RECRUITMENT FOR CAL POLY’S 10 SORORITIES BEGINS SUNDAY, SEPT. 25 WITH CHECK-IN AND MANDATORY ORIENTATION.

James Hayes @jimbles_hayes

For the 20,000 students at Cal Poly, it’s not uncommon for some students to feel like they do not have their niche. However, many students participate in greek life, which offers not only brotherhood and sisterhood, but scholarships and leadership experience.

Cal Poly has 36 different sororities and fraternities on campus with approximately 3,600 students involved, making 20 percent of Cal Poly’s population a part of greek life.

Recruitment for most chapters happens at the start of fall quarter, with additional recruitment periods for other chapters each quarter.

To get involved in greek life, all students have to complete the Greek Pre-Recruitment Tutorial online. The tutorial takes about 20 minutes and gives students a foundation for joining greek life.

Before getting involved, students should research each chapter to find the ones they are interested in being a part of. Each chapter has a specific charitable foundation they sup-

port. Chapters will hold multiple philanthropic events throughout the year to fundraise for the chapter’s foundation.

Recruitment for Cal Poly’s 10 sororities begins Sunday, Sept.

25 with check-in and mandatory orientation. From Wednesday, Sept. 28 to Wednesday, Oct. 5, students will take part in different events that familiarize them with different sororities such as house tours, sisterhood day and philanthropy day.

Students interested in joining Alpha Epsilon Phi — Cal Poly’s Jewish interest sorority — follow a slightly different re-

cruitment schedule beginning with an introductory event on Thursday, Sept, 29 and other events from Saturday, Oct. 1 to Wednesday, Oct 5.

Pinterest boards with style and clothing guidelines are provided for students on Cal Poly’s Panhellenic website at www.cpslopha.com.

For more information on recruitment or scholarship and leadership opportunities, visit Cal Poly’s Panhellenic website.

Fraternity recruitment begins on Sunday, Oct. 9 and is followed by two recruitment barbecues on Monday, Oct. 10 and Tuesday, Oct. 11. Frater-

MATTHEW L AL ANNE | MUSTANG NE WS DECISIONS, DECISIONS | Cal Poly has 36 different greek organizations.

nities will be holding separate events for the next week and a half and recruitment will conclude on Wednesday, Oct. 20 with “Bid Day”. On Bid Day, students must accept any offers to become a potential member of a fraternity.

For students who didn’t rush in the fall, another recruitment period is scheduled for winter quarter and will be posted on the Interfraternity Council’s website as well.

Rush schedules and more information on each chapter can be found on the IFC website, www.calpolyifc.com.

Saturday, September 17, 2016

WEEK OF WELCOME | 16

Tips for fighting the freshman 15 Sabrina Thompson @sabrinaswriting

Gone are the days of home cooked meals and structured mealtimes. With this new-found freedom that college presents there is a danger of gaining the “Freshman 15.” This is the weight many freshmen gain within their first year as a result of stress and poor meal choices.

Here are a few tips to avoid putting on those extra few pounds.

Have it your way

The fact Cal Poly has a multitude of meal options to choose from, and the fact your dining dollars end up feeling like monopoly money, may make the task of mealtime a bit over-

whelming. Rest assured that you have an endless array of options to choose from when it comes to finding the healthiest choices.

Customizable orders at just about any dining place on campus can help substitute high calorie and fat foods. Campus Market, The Avenue and Metro 19 all feature salad bars with fresh mix-ins, not to mention Red Radish has build-your-own salads and specialty salads that are sure to satisfy you while still being healthy. These options are great when you are on the go or heading home and don’t want to cook.

You can also make meals in your new home It doesn’t matter if you are in an apartment or dorm room, there

are plenty of ways to get the vital nutrients in your body without leaving the comfort of your living space. Each living community is equipped with a full kitchen.

Apartments may have easier access, but residence halls provide the pots and pans for you. All of the rooms have a fridge and freezer to keep things fresh, and for some residence halls, the microwave becomes your best friend.

With a quick Google search you can find endless recipes of microwavable meals that are low in processed ingredients.

Finding out what healthy means for you Cal Poly has so many resources available to you; there is nothing you have to do alone.

PULSE, a student-run health

organization located below the Health Center, has an entire department dedicated to helping and educating students about the healthy options available on campus. The one-on-one peer sessions can include planning exact meals and help give you the healthiest options that are easily available on campus.

They can teach you about substitution and also help explain each line on a food label. To encourage you to get the help you may want, the services are free. There are also departments within Campus Dining that specialize in helping students set up dietary plans based on their individual needs.

It is not all about food Food and exercise are the sur-

est ways to avoid putting on the “Freshman 15.” Fortunately, we have a state of the art Recreation Center, with plenty of options to burn calories and build muscle. The Rec Center offers a free session with a personal trainer as well as staff ready to assist you. There are classes in aerobics, cycling, yoga and more available on different days of the week. You can also join an intramural or club sport which are a great way to make friends while staying in shape. Outside of that, there are many bicycle and hiking trails with beautiful views for your work out.

It is about mind and body While eating right and staying active are important to truly avoid the “Freshman 15,” you

STAY HYDR ATED. QUENCH THAT THIRST BY BRINGING A REUSABLE WATER BOTTLE TO CL A SS.

DON’T NEGLECT MENTAL HEALTH. THE HEALTH CENTER HAS FREE COUNSELING SERVICES. TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THEM.

FUEL UP! SKIPPING MEAL S WILL HAVE YOU RUNNING ON FUMES AND FEELING LETHARGIC ALL DAY.

LET’S GET CREATIVE! ENJOY A DE-STRESSING ACTIVIT Y LIKE DR AWING OR PAINTING.

GET THOSE FEET MOVING WITH FREE EXERCISE CL A SSES AT THE REC CENTER INCLUDING SPIN, YOGA AND MARTIAL ARTS CL A SSES.

EVERY DAY IS LEG DAY AT CAL POLY. TONE THOSE MUSCLES BY WALKING TO CL A SS!

must also be mentally fit. Stress eating is a common cause of the phenomenon, and college can be extremely stressful at times.

Take the time to listen and learn about your body and what it has to tell you. It is also important to love the body you are in. If you want to change it, that is okay, but fighting the “Freshman 15” should not turn into a war against yourself.

What you eat is going to change now that you are away from home. You may end up eating later than you did before or eating on the go. Whatever the changes are, you should aim to make them positive so that you are equipping yourself with habits that can keep you happy and healthy after your freshman year.

DESIGN BY AARON MATSUDA | MUSTANG NE WS

ARTS

Saturday, September 17, 2016

ARTS | 18

No worries.

No car?

Nicole Horton @CPMustangNews

Cal Poly is lucky enough to be situated in one of the most beautiful towns in California.

Exploring the ins and outs of the San Luis Obispo area is high on the college bucket list for most students. However, students might find themselves yearning adventure, but lacking a way to get there.

Fear not, car-less students, there are plenty of ways to get around this charming college town.

The most painless way to explore San Luis Obispo is through its very own SLO Transit system. These buses are free and take students all around the city with a single swipe of their PolyCard.

Whether students are headed downtown to study in the many beloved coffee shops, off to Madonna Shopping Plaza for some retail therapy or to Target for some housing essentials, SLO Transit has got them covered.

If students find themselves intimidated by the idea of public transportation, there’s an app for that.

The SLO Transit app allows its users to plan their trips and receive alerts when the nearest bus will be at their desired stop.

Landscape architecture sophomore Tori

CP

get to places around SLO, and either the bus times didn’t work for me, or (the bus) couldn’t get me to exactly where I needed to be. So, I decided to sign up for Zipcar,” Wooldridge said. “I love Zipcar because it allows quick and easy access to a car at almost any time of the day. I can get to wherever I need to go in an instant.”.

Cal Poly boasts a heaping amount of active and adventurous students. Students can see and do so much if they’re willing to get their shoes dirty and break a little sweat.

For this adventurous bunch, there are a few great places on campus to check out when a break from the residence halls is needed.

The famous Cal Poly “P” hike is a great escape and provides incredible views of the campus and surrounding area. Its trailhead is located behind Trinity and Muir Hall and is a spot frequented by many.

Another hidden gem is Poly Canyon. Students can explore its crazy structures and enjoy the beautiful San Luis Obispo weather by walking over to the Poly Canyon gates, located just a few minutes away from the apartments.

Students should never feel limited by not having a personal vehicle on campus. There are plenty of options when it comes to getting around, and with each new day these methods are becoming more personalized to accommodate students.

Fields was hesitant at first about using the bus system, making sure only to ride with her experienced friends. However, with the app’s help she became confident enough to ride on her own.

“I found the app to be extremely helpful because it allows you to see the next bus set to arrive at your destination,” Fields said. “It even gives you the option to set a timer, which will notify you when it’s just a few minutes out, which I appreciated because I am not the best with timing.”

For those who are searching for a mode of transportation that is more sensitive to their schedule, Zipcar might be the better option.

Zipcar is a car rental service that allows consumers to reserve a car for an hourly rate.

All students have to do is download the application or apply online. Once their application is approved, they will be able to access any Zipcar they desire in the area. There are multiple Zipcars that call Cal Poly home base.

Students don’t even have to worry about gas expenditures; it’s covered in the cost.

Zipcars can be rented for just one hour, or can be reserved for a maximum of seven days.

Business administration sophomore Jack Wooldridge is a frequent Zipcar user and has had nothing but good experiences with the service.

“There have been times that I’ve needed to

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Saturday, September 17, 2016

ARTS | 20

Get involved with clubs on campus Connor McCarthy @conr_mccarthy

As a new school year begins, Cal Poly clubs are looking to recruit new members. With more than 325 clubs and Independent Student Organizations (ISOs), there is coalition for nearly every interest, major and religion at Cal Poly.

To lead and operate a large community of student organizations is the responsibility of the Associated Students, Inc. (ASI).

Agricultural science senior and the 2016-17 ASI President Jana Colombini describes how to narrow down searching for clubs.

“There are almost 400 clubs on campus and it can be really hard to choose a few to get involved in,” Colombini said. “The best thing to do is to attend the first meeting of all the clubs you are interested in, see what they say

and then figure out if it is something you really want to dedicate your time to.”

Finding the right club to join can be as hard as deciding which university to enroll in. Mechanical engineering sophomore Spencer Grenley wasn’t sure what club he wanted to join the beginning of his freshman year.

“I stumbled upon PROVE (Prototype Vehicles) lab and ended up sticking with it because I loved the people in it,” Grenley said.

“They are attempting to beat the land speed record for fastest solar powered car and I was able to actually get a piece of the project and contribute as a freshman.”

Clubs and ISOs help students grow their skillset within their major.

With the Learn by Doing motto engraved into the minds of all students at Cal Poly, students are pushing their educations beyond

the classroom.

“I feel that clubs enhance the Learn by Doing philosophy at Cal Poly,” Colombini said. “They provide students with an opportunity to expand their knowledge, meet

nization can normally take longer than a three-hour club showcase.

Some students, like animal science sophomore Aldo Marquez, don’t choose a traditional club.

Marquez volunteers at the Cal

FIND SOMETHING YOU ARE PASSIONATE ABOUT AND IT WILL HELP YOU CONNECT TO CAL POLY. JANA COLOMBINI ASI PRESIDENT

new people and display their talents. In my opinion, they are essential to this campus.”

Clubs help create a sense of community on Cal Poly’s campus.

However, finding the right orga-

Poly Cat Shelter, and he still feels the same sense of connection as any student would have in a traditional club.

“It took me a while to find an organization to be part of,” Mar-

quez said. “I wanted to join the Cal Poly Cat Shelter because a lot of people in my major are a part of it. I think the experience will help me in my future courses.”

Even if there is no club or organization that spikes interest, there is still the option to start a new coalition of a specific interest. Colombini said it’s easier than most students think to start up a club.

“All you have to do is make sure the club doesn’t already exist, find an advisor, show that there is an interest in the potential new club and then create bylaws,” Colombini said.

Find out more information on the club services page at www. asi.calpoly.edu, under the University Union tab.

Whether it’s joining an organization or creating a new one, clubs on a university campus are seen as one of the most valuable

and beneficial resources offered.

Grenley’s advice for searching for clubs is to be open minded about signing up.

“Choose a club in your major, especially if you are on the fence about switching majors. It will help you with that decision immensely,” Grenley said. “Don’t just rely on classes to see if you like a certain discipline.”

Colombini hopes the food incentive at club meetings is enough to attract students who are checking out different organizations.

“Usually, at first club meetings they serve free food. So if you play your card right, you can get free food for the first two weeks of the quarter,” Colombini said. “But join a club because you want to, not just because all your friends or roommates are doing it. Find something that you are passionate about and it will help you connect to Cal Poly.”

MUSTANG NE WS FILE PHOTO PL AY THE FIELD

| There are 325 clubs and Independent Student Organizations on campus. ASI President Jana Colombini suggests going to the first meetings of clubs you are interested in to decide which ones to join.

Saturday, September 17, 2016

ARTS | 23

Get to know Cal Poly’s international community Connor McCarthy @conr_mccarthy

Cal Poly’s international students are doing more than adjusting to doing their own laundry; they are adapting and adopting a whole new country and culture.

Cal Poly’s international community is small compared to universities such as the University of Southern California or the University of California, Los Angeles. But Brazilian mechanical engineering junior José Borges wasn’t attracted to universities in global cities such as Los Angeles.

“I have always liked smaller cities because they are more peaceful. Moreover, the small distance to the beach was a huge factor,” Borges said. “However, the education quality was first in my list.”

Assistant Director for International Recruitment & Admission Roxana Tunc’s job is to market Cal Poly’s renowned education overseas.

Under the direction of the International Center on campus, Tunc works with the admissions office and Cal Poly representatives abroad to recruit students.

“We participate in international events, student recruitment fairs and conduct high school visits,” Tunc said. “In addition, we collaborate with official organizations such as EducationUSA, Institute of International Education and Council of International schools.”

Some students, such as Chinese mathematics sophomore JingTian Ye found out about Cal Poly after moving to the United States in high school. She decided to continue her college education in America because she thinks there are more opportunities in this country.

“I came here from China for post-secondary education because I was hoping to get my undergraduate and even graduate education at a country that has better overall college institutions,” Ye said. “ Also, by going to

school here, I want to have a better opportunity, or more opportunity when it comes to options of graduate school, research interest and so on.”

Borges chose Cal Poly after researching top mechanical engineering schools in the world, and Cal Poly was on the top of the list. He adjusted to the American education system easier than he expected.

“I think that the American and the Brazilian systems are very similar overall. I had to get used to the language, but this only took me a few months,” Borges said. “In addition, Cal Poly was very helpful, it provided me with many resources like advisors and student volunteers, called International Peer Contacts, to help me adjust.”

Even with so many resources available for international students, adjusting to a new way of life isn’t as easy as it sounds for some. Ye adjusted to the United States smoothly, but she can understand how it can be difficult to assimilate to a whole new life.

“I think language barrier is something American students are very aware of, and helpful with,” Ye said. “However, the culture differences is something American students are not aware of, and it’s simply because we grow up listening to different music, exposed to different TV shows, news media and etc. As long as both sides have respect and an open-mind, the differences could be learned. Although, to adjust, to understand and to catch up with the culture might take longer.”

Other factors, like being far away from home, challenges international students. Borges highlighted how most American students do not understand how far an international student’s home might be. Despite the distance, Borges has learned important lessons beyond the classroom.

“The United States culture taught me a lot. I live in an environment where people are very focused and dedicated to their jobs. In addition, people are very communicative and polite to others,” Borges said. “I have learned that it is very important to leave your comfort zone and try new things, how to be more independent and make things happen for myself, and I have also learned how to be more extroverted, to go out and meet new people.”

Like Borges, Ye is grateful for what she has learned, experiencing school in the United States and immersing herself into the culture.

“The United States overall has exposed me to more people and made me a more open-minded person,” Ye said. “Throughout the guidance and support of my mentors and my own work, I think I am on the right track figuring out my passion and combine that with what I can study and essentially serve a bigger audience’s sake.

I appreciate the opportunity that is out there available to me, but my experience in America so far has also taught me to work hard and earn what I deserve.”

Tunc hopes the international community can educate American students on their culture and global knowledge, like how Borges and Ye experienced the American way of life. Tunc also wants American students to understand how crucial their international peers are for the campus community.

“International students bring a different point of view in classroom discussion,” The United States culture taught me a lot.

Tunc said. “They help other students to learn how to adjust to different I live in an environment where people are cultures and work styles and they help them realize how diverse our very focused and dedicated to their jobs. In world is.”

addition people, are very communitive and polite to others.

JOSÉ BORGES

SPORTS

Photo by Matt Aguirre

Saturday, September 17, 2016

SPORTS | 26

Fall sports preview

CHRISTA LAM | MUSTANG NE WS

OVERTIME THRILLER

| Men’s soccer beat UCSB at home in a double-overtime finish last year. The team ended the season with an 11-5-5 standing and secured 3rd place in the Big West Conference tournament.

Ayrton Ostly @AyrtonOstly

The Fall 2015 season was one of multiple highs and some lows for Cal Poly sports, as many teams enjoyed their most recent success and others failed to meet expectations. But with a new year comes fresh hope and opportunity to capitalize on last year’s results.

Here’s a look into each Cal Poly sport’s performance last fall and their outlook for the upcoming season

Men’s soccer 2015 result: 11-5-5, 3rd in Big West Conference Head coach Steve Sampson’s maiden season was as exciting as it was successful. The Mustangs started out the season 5-2-1 before conference play and continued that good form all the way to a berth in the NCAA tournament. Most importantly, the Mustangs won 3-2 in a double-overtime thriller at home against UC Santa Barbara in the season’s Blue-Green rivalry game. In the second install-

ment of the rivalry, the Mustangs scored with six seconds left in regulation to tie the game 2-2 and remain undefeated in the nation’s top soccer rivalry.

However, the run of success fell short in the Big West Conference Tournament as the Mustangs lost to Cal State Fullerton in the semifinals. Cal Poly would end its season with a 2-0 loss to UCLA in the NCAA Tournament’s opening round.

This season, the Mustangs will be without many familiar faces on the team. Chase Minter, 2015

Big West Midfielder of the Year, was drafted 21st by the Columbus Crew in the 2016 MLS SuperDraft. Two-time Big West Goalkeeper of the Year Wade Hamilton was drafted 61st by the Portland Timbers and defender Kip Colvey was drafted 49th by the San Jose Earthquakes. A loss of talent like this puts more pressure on players from last year’s team to produce similar results in more important roles. Three players were named to the pre-season All-Big West Conference team: senior forward Justin Dhillon and

senior defenders Ruben Duran and Kody Wakasa. The trio will likely lead the team in Sampson’s second season.

Another year learning Sampson’s philosophies and system should provide an opportunity for more success as a team, and a big name like Sampson will continue to attract high-profile recruits to sign letters of intent and improve Cal Poly’s program in the future.

Football 2015 result: 4-7, 10th in Big Sky

Conference Last season was not the best for the Mustangs, as they went 1-6 following their 20-19 season opening win against Montana State. If defense wins championships, as the legendary college football coach Paul “Bear” Bryant said, it’s easy to see why Cal Poly was far from contending from a championship last season. The defense gave up an average of 35.5 points per game, third worst in the conference, Continued on page 28

CAL POLY FALL SPORTS 2015-2016 SEASON Cross country Men 2nd in conference

Football

Cross country

4-7

Women Conference champs

10th in conference

Soccer Men

11-5-5

3rd in conference

Volleyball

19-8

3rd in conference

Soccer Women

6-8-5

8th in conference

Saturday, September 17, 2016

SPORTS | 27

Sports 101: How to get involved with sports on campus

Ty Schilling @ty_schilling106

College is a completely different atmosphere than high school. It takes time to adapt to the larger student body or to new responsibilities that come with sudden independence. But there is one thing high school and college will always share — sports.

If you attended sporting events in high school, be prepared for an even crazier experience than before. If you weren’t much of a “sports person” in high school, you’re in for a real treat.

College sports have always been comprised of rambunctious student bodies and outof-this-world plays that seem to only happen in Hollywood movies. Cal Poly lives up to the hype every year with overtime goals and last second shots.

As Cal Poly students, it is our job to get involved and keep college sports living forever.

With 25 club sports and 20 NCAA sports, there are many opportunities to compete with or support Cal Poly.

During fall quarter, the Alex G. Spanos Stadium is the place

If you attended sporting events in high school, be prepared for an even crazier experience than before.

to be. Hosting both the Cal Poly football and soccer team, Spanos Stadium is always buzzing.

Students are lucky to find a place to sit during the annual Blue-Green Rivalry soccer game against UC Santa Barbara. This rivalry tends to draw some animosity between both schools, which results in tortillas littering the field.

As for football, Spanos Stadium lights up like any college football stadium. The stadium nearly sells-out during each game and students are able to finally show

off their school spirit.

Women’s volleyball fills Mott Athletics Center to the brim, always competing at the top of the Big West Conference. Many nights students are called to attend for support, whether it be colored shirts or distractions for the other teams.

NCAA teams on campus pro-

K AR A DOUDS | MUSTANG NE WS YOUR CHOICE

| Students can choose to either play or watch sports.

vide many opportunities for students to attend events with wrestling, swimming and basketball in the winter, as well as baseball, tennis and softball in the spring.

Club sports, however, follow more along the lines of the common student. The athletes in club sports are non-scholarship, regular, everyday students. But don’t let their status fool you, club athletes are just as competitive as the NCAA athletes on campus.

Cal Poly has brought in 18 Club Sport National Champi-

onships in the last 10 years, all from everyday students who had a little bit of extra free time.

And of course, if you’re a student just willing to play sports for the fun of it — intramurals is the way to go. Cal Poly allows students to participate in a variety of leagues, sports and tournaments through registration on the first Thursday of every quarter.

So, whether it be competing for an intramural sport, NCAA sport, club sport or cheering on fellow students, Cal Poly students have multiple ways to get involved with sports on campus.

Saturday, September 17, 2016

SPORTS | 28 Continued from page 26

while also giving up the ninthmost yards per game (457.6) and allowing teams to score in the red zone 88.5 percent of the time, third-worst in conference again. In games that often turned into scoring shootouts, the Mustang offense couldn’t overcome the deficiencies on the other side of the ball.

This season the Mustangs have to shore up the defense in order to contend. During Fall Camp, head coach Tim Walsh seemed optimistic about an improvement for the unit.

“I loved the way we came out on defense,” he said after a situational scrimmage pitting the first team offense and defense against each other. “We pressured the offense pretty much the entire way and prevented the big play.”

With an offense that ranked second in yards per game (478.5), first in rushing (387.3 yards per game) and sixth in points in conference, the Mustangs don’t need a stifling defense to win close games.

Instead, the team needs the defense to be just good enough to let its potent rushing attack take control on Saturdays this fall.

Volleyball 2015 result: 19-8, 3rd in Big West Conference After a combined 25 wins from 2012-2014, the Mustangs put on their best show in years, winning 16 of their first 21 matches on the 2015 schedule. The team couldn’t carry its momentum from October into the final month of the season and lost out on a chance to make it to the NCAA tournament.

One of the biggest reasons for the resurgence was then-freshman outside hitter Adlee Van Winden. The 2015 Big West Freshman of the Year led the team with 391 kills, fourth best in conference, and consistently scored to win crucial set points. She was one of four players and three underclassmen to be selected to the 2015 All-Conference team.

That supply of talent, as Van Winden returns this season with fellow All-Conference players junior outside hitter Raeann Greisen, junior setter Taylor Nelson and senior middle blocker Taylor Gruenewald, gives the Mustangs one of the more talented rosters from top to bottom in the conference. Cal Poly also has size in spades, as the average starting lineup for the Mustangs last season featured five players six feet tall or taller. Between the youth, size and continued development of one of the conference’s best players, a Big West Conference Title isn’t out of possibility for head coach Sam Crosson’s squad this fall.

After a combined 25 wins from 2012-2014, the Mustangs (volleyball) put on their best show in years Women’s soccer 2015 result: 6-8-5, 8th in Big West Conference In contrast to the men’s side, the women’s soccer team had a down year in 2015. They finished the season 2-6 after a strong start and missed out on the conference tournament for the first time in three years. In order to improve on last year’s performance, the team has to fill the gaps left by two of the program’s all-time best players, forward Elise Krieghoff and goalkeeper Alyssa Giannetti. Krieghoff, who signed with the Boston Breakers of the NWSL, was First Team All-Conference every year of her career and holds the school record for most goals in a season (21 in 2013) and in a career (52).

Giannetti, currently playing for Arna-Bjørnar in Norway, led the conference in saves last season with 95

and made an All-Conference team three times in her career.

Senior midfielder Megan Abutin, who scored three goals along with five assists last season, was the only Cal Poly player selected to the pre-season All-Conference team and will look to fill Krieghoff’s role as the veteran leader. Sophomore forward Caitlyn Kreutz, who led the team last season with seven goals, has already been named Big West Conference Offensive Player of the Week for her work in two of the 2016 season’s first three games.

With contributions from younger players throughout the roster coupled with production from Abutin and Kreutz, the Mustangs have a chance to improve on last year’s second-to-last finish.

Cross country The 2015 season was a great success for the women’s side, as true freshman Peyton Bilo led Cal Poly to a conference championship. She led the team in the final five meets of 2015 and was selected to run in the NCAA Championships. She’s joined this season by fellow sophomore Katie Izzo, who won an individual conference championship in track last spring, and senior Ashley Windsor, who was named Big West Cross Country Freshman of the Year in 2013. Along with senior Mary Jo Wright, junior Sydney Szabo and sophomore Hannah Hull, the women return with six athletes who ran at the conference championships and have the potential to repeat as conference champions.

The men’s side also returns six runners from last year’s Big West Conference Championships: seniors Nick Woolf, Swarnjit Boyal and David Galvez and sophomores Garrett Migliozzi, Devon Grove and Peter Cotsirilos. The team finished a close second to UC Santa Barbara in the conference championship and, with a good supply of veteran talent that had a solid track season, could bridge the gap to a potential conference championship this fall.

MUSTANG NE WS FILE PHOTO WIN STREAK

| Volleyball won 16 of their first 21 matches in the 2015 season. The team won 3rd in conference.

Saturday, September 17, 2016

SPORTS | 30

Five freshmen that will make an impact this fall 2 Ayrton Ostly @Ayrton Ostly

College athletes, depending on the sport, often take a season or two to develop into major contributors. A better understanding of the coach’s system, acclimating to a higher talent level and working around a college student schedule can make it difficult for freshmen athletes to have an immediate impact.

That being said, here are a few freshmen heading into their first season this fall that could have an impact on their respective team.

1 Kenneth Higgins, men’s soccer Higgins comes to Cal Poly after a solid high school career that included being named to the Best XI team at the 2014 US Youth Soccer National Championships.

One of four freshmen listed as a midfielder, Higgins could have the best chance of the four to fill the void in the middle left by 2015 Big West Midfielder of the Year Chase Minter. Though only 5-foot-6, the San Clemente, Calif. native led his high school squad to a league title and was a twoyear letterwinner.

Jessica McRoskey, volleyball It’s hard to imagine any freshman volleyball player having an impact like 2015 Big West Freshman of the Year Adlee Van Winden did last season. But for the second year in a row, the Mustangs could have a very talented freshman as outside hitter. The 6-foot McRoskey is one of three freshmen outside hitters but has already made her way into the starting rotation in the first few matches of the season. In high school, she was a four-year scholar athlete and won league MVP in 2013, as well as team MVP in 2013, 2014 and 2015. For a team that already has two All-Conference outside hitters, the Mustangs may have an embarrassment of riches at the position this fall.

3

4

Sophia Brown and Jessica Johnson, women’s soccer Goalkeeper had been a position of strength for the past few seasons for the Mustangs.

Alyssa Giannetti, now playing professionally in Norway, made All-Conference team three times in her career. With her departure came the chance for Brown to start right away for Cal Poly. At pressrun, Brown has already recorded two shutouts in her first

six starts and is fourth in the Big West in saves with 21. She has big shoes to fill in the coming years, but if Brown maintains her early season form she could develop into one of the team’s best players by the end of the season.

The freshman from Pleasanton, Calif. was part of the Olympic Development Program from 2011-2014 and was named California’s female Scholar-Athlete of the Year for 2016.

Johnson will have a similar chance as Brown this fall as the graduation of Elise Krieghoff leaves the Mustangs without their career leader in goals. Johnson has already started multiple games to begin the season and scored the winning goal against Saint Mary’s in her third career start. The Lakewood, Calif. native was named to an all-league team for three straight seasons for St. Joseph High School and won a league title in her final year for the Jesters.

5

Cate Ratliff, women’s cross country After an incredible season by then-freshman Peyton Bilo in 2015, the Mustangs could again have a newcomer lead the way. Ratliff, the freshman from Santa Cruz, Calif., won the California State Championships for cross country as a senior before finishing 11th at the Nike Cross Country Nationals. She was awarded the Gatorade State

Female Cross Country Runner of the Year honor in January and finished her high school career ranked 21st in the country by MileSplit United States.

“(Ratliff) won the California State Championships from cross country as a senior before finishing 11th at the Nike Cross Country Nationals.” “(Brown) has big shoes to fill in the coming years, but if Brown maintains her early season form she could develop into one of the team’s best players by the end of the season”

“Though only 5-foot6, (Higgins) led his high school squad to a league title and was a two year letterwinner.”

“In high school, (McRoskey) was a four-year scholar athlete who won league MVP in 2013, as well as team MVP in “(Johnson) 2013, 2014 was named to and an all-league 2015.” team for three

straight seasons for St. Joseph High School and won a league title in her final year for the Jesters.”

Where to watch fall sports

Mott Gym Location: Across from The Avenue and left of the Recreation Center.

Hosts: Volleyball CELINA OSEGUERA | MUSTANG NE WS

Alex G. Spanos Stadium Location: North entrance is on California Blvd., going toward campus. South entrance is on campus at the corner of S. Perimeter Rd. and College Ave. Hosts: Soccer and football CELINA OSEGUERA | MUSTANG NE WS