Freshman Focus 2019

VOL VI / ISSUE I

SUMMER / FALL 2019

T H E O N LY C A M P U S M A G A Z I N E F O R F R E S H M E N , B Y F R E S H M E N .

GET INVOLVED WITH

THE BEST OF

A GUIDE TO CAMPUS

CLUBS & ORGS

MASON

RESOURCES

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Fairfax • (703) 278-8117

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We accept

Mason Money _ MCALISTERSDELI.COM @MCALISTERSDELI ©2019 McAlister’s Franchisor SPV LLC 313277

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TABLE

of

CONTENTS 6 t i p s f o r c o l l e g i at e

SUCCESS

12

le a r n fro m Wo r ld -r en oWn ed

FACULTY

14 24

m a s o n ’s b e s t

EVENTS

4

Campus Resources

6

UNIV 100

9

Finding Our Niche

11

Favorite Study Spots

13

Write Your Next Chapter 17

s e i z e yo u r l e a d e r s h i p

MOMENT

Welcome from the VP

30

Choosing Your Major

18

Green Machine

21

Going Greek?

22

Around the Globe

27

Make an Impact

32

Club/Intramural Sports 35 Freshman Athletes

36

Navigating Fairfax

40

Student Deals

45

Seek & Discover

48

Play-by-Play

50

Faces of Mason

51

My Time @ Mason

52

George’s Birthday

60

best of

MASON

38 Follow Us! @gmustudentmedia

first of their

NAME

47

studentmedia.gmu.edu

LE TTER

from the

EDITOR STAFF

W Photo courtesy of Elijah Nichols

elcome to Mason, Patriots! As you read this, a now newly enrolled student at Mason, I really want to emphasize the importance of these next four years. Within this time, you might experience your first taste of adulthood.

Believe me, it isn’t always easy.

However, the hard times are always able to be overcome.

During your time at Mason, you are going to make some lifelong friends, fully engulf yourself in your studies, as well as explore who you are as a person. There are so many ways to get a head start on this journey of personal growth. For instance, you can join a student organization! Or, you can even create one. Coming to Mason, I knew that I wanted to bring the gun violence prevention movement to Fairfax, as we did not have a Students Demand Action chapter. So, I created it alongside some wonderful organizers from the area. Other registered student organizations on campus can be found on GetConnected.gmu.edu, and they range from political advocacy groups to club sports, all of which breed amazing experiences and new friendships.

As you follow your perspective paths, join differing student organizations, and find your friends on campus, I urge you to take some time for yourself too. It’s definitely one of the struggles as a college student, but luckily there are some great tips and tricks in this year’s edition of Freshman Focus.

Best, Elijah Z. Nichols Class of 2022

Elijah Z. Nichols EDITOR - IN - CHIEF Kafia Hirad GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Mary Jane DeCarlo COVER ILLUSTRATION FACULTY ADVISORS :

Kathryn Mangus, Director Jason Hartsel, Assistant Director David Carroll, Associate Director Benjamin Hosig, Business Manager STUDENT MEDIA SALES STAFF :

Yamilet Membreno Kimberly Garcia STAFF WRITERS :

Erin Rodgers Summer Brown Chierren Denman Zach Wolfson Sean Diment Cedric Price Natalia Kanos Deema Turkomani

Ian Shiff Mackenzie Nelson Phylicia White Anna Bertino Eduardo Fajardo Brooke Lewitas Nandini Tivakaran Rosemary Wright

CONTRIBUTORS :

Alex Dzuricky Imani Holloman Zach Hamilton Erik Sather Ross Shinberg Angelique Arintok Avni Singh Erik Truong Sofia Velasquez Ayleah Hanton Monica Echols Cody Borden Ashley Romulus Bacot Alexandra Kostovski Sara Kyle Jordan Christopher Campos-Perez SPECIAL THANKS TO :

2 | Freshman Focus

Rose Pascarell City of Fairfax Creative Services Tyler Byrum University Life Offices & Directors

a m e ssag e f r o m

UNIVERSITY LIFE

C

Don’t forget, you are not alone. Your fellow classmates might just be going through the same thing. Be courageous, and connect with your Mason community to get the best out of all the time ahead has to offer.

As with any new adventure, expect a period of adjustment.

This might be anything from finding your way around campus to figuring out how to spend your free time here.

Have fun, stay safe, and once again, welcome to Mason!

Photo by Evan Cantwell/Creative Services

ongratulations on a successful high school graduation and your admittance to Mason. We are excited to have you join this wonderful community of fellow students, faculty, staff, and alumni.

Your unique contributions will enrich Mason in a way that no one else can, so welcome! I urge you to use your time here to excel academically, but also to step forward in other ways.

Whether you are the first in your family to go to college, or higher-education is part of a long-standing family tradition, we are ready to help you succeed.

4

An important thing to remember is this: your choices will define your Mason experience. Mason offers you the opportunity to keep learning when class ends, to be curious and take the kind of risks that propel you to the next level.

Here, you can discover where your passions lead you, both in your future and in the world. Lean in to the hundreds of ways Mason lets you get involved, choose the ones that matter most to you, and make your mark. And, if you see me walking across campus, stop and let me know how you’re doing.

ROSE PASCARELL, Vice President, University Life

UNIVERSITY LIFE

Your success is our success. We are here for you.

University Life is with you every step of the way.

The Division of University Life is here to help you succeed. We connect you to others, help you stay healthy, provide opportunities to learn in multicultural and global settings, and offer support when you need it. Through involvement and guidance from our expert staff, we help prepare you for success at Mason and beyond.

WHAT WE DO

Well-Being

ulife.gmu.edu

Global and Multicultural Competency

Career Readiness

Civic Learning and Community Engagement

@MasonULife

CaMP U S RESOURCES

ARE HERE

TO HELP

Photos courtesy of Creative Services

Counseling & Psychological Services SUB 1, Room 3129 Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) provides free and confidential services to Mason students and the broader Mason community. CAPS staff members consult with students, faculty, staff, and parents to provide a coordinated program of personal and academic development services and to assist students in resolving adjustment and performance issues.

The range of services offered includes: • Individual and group counseling • Psychiatric services • Skills-based workshops • Referral services 6 | Freshman Focus

• Consultation with faculty, staff, parents, and friends Students may use CAPS services to address a variety of concerns, including managing anxiety, depression, grief, and/or anger; personal, family, and relationship concerns; traumatic experiences; difficulty with alcohol, other substances, or food; sexual identity; race/ethnicity, culture, and diversity; and attaining educational and academic goals.

CAPS services are provided by a staff of professional clinical psychologists, counselors, and psychiatric providers.

For students who are in need of more intensive services, we offer referrals to assist them in locating community-based providers and facilitating successful connections with these resources.

In addition to working directly with students, CAPS provides consultation to faculty, staff, parents, and friends who may be concerned about another student. By speaking with an oncall clinician, individuals can gain information and support about how they might approach and address issues with the student of concern.

Learn More: caps.gmu.edu

Learning Services SUB 1, Suite 3129 Learning Services assists Mason students in achieving their academic goals by teaching metacognitive and self-regulation strategies. Many students find that learning and studying at Mason is different than what they were accustomed to in high school. The staff provides a variety of free services to empower students to help them study effectively, manage assignments, and prepare for exams. Some services they offer include: • Academic Coaching (by appointment: tinyurl.com/masonlearning) • Academic Success Workshops • Online study strategy videos Learn More: learningservices.gmu.edu

Student Support & Advocacy Center SUB 1, Suite 3200 The Student Support and Advocacy Center is committed to providing an empowering environment for all Mason students to seek support services and to explore healthy life choices.

We offer educational programming, one-on-one consultations, and resources in the areas of interpersonal violence, personal wellness, and alcohol and drug use. We assist students in encountering barriers to personal success in many forms.

Services: Patriot Pantry (provides access to non-perishable food items, toiletries, and basic school supplies to George Mason University students), free condoms, free HIV “OraQuick” Rapid Test, Stay Mason Student Support Fund (assists matriculated George Mason students who are at risk of not continuing their education due to unexpected financial situations), and much more.

Learn More: ssac.gmu.edu

Medical Amnesty: The University, at its discretion, provides an “amnesty” program as an effort to support students who experience a first alcohol and/or other drug related situation, and the responsible student(s) who seek assistance for them. “Amnesty” offers students who proactively exhibit responsible behavior the opportunity for educational, non-disciplinary intervention for the incident.

GET CONNECTED WITH

CAMPUS RESOURCES Counseling & Psychological Services (703) 993-2380 | caps.gmu.edu

Disability Services (703) 993-2474 | ds.gmu.edu

Learning Services (703) 993-2380 learningservices.gmu.edu

Student Health Services (703) 993-2831 | shs.gmu.edu

Student Support & Advocacy Center (703) 993-3686 | ssac.gmu.edu For a full list of campus resources:

University Life ulife.gmu.edu | Emergencies: 911

Summer /Fall 2019 | 7

SOURCES: Bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/psychologists.htm#tab-8 Psychologydegree.com/the-average-salary-with-a-psychology-degree Psychologytoday.com/blog/fulďŹ llment-any-age/201209/the-top-10-reasons-major-in-psychology

@GMUPSYCHOLOGY

/GMUPSYCHOLOGY

f i n d yo u r f i r s t - y e a r s u c c e s s :

UNIV 100 ALEX DZURICKY Contributor

Y

• Academic success • Adjusting to college • Stress management • Health and mental well-being • Effective study habits • Major & career exploration • Time & money management

“UNIV 100 IS YOUR

• Introduction to campus resources

CHEAT SHEET FOR

• Communication skills

TRANSITIONING INTO COLLEGE AND MAKING SURE YOU THRIVE AND SURVIVE.” managing stress. All the while you’ll be forming bonds that can last you the rest of your college career. It’s not uncommon to meet your best friend in UNIV 100, and if you find yourself needing guidance down the road, you can return to the connections you made with both your teachers and your peers from that course.

Speaking of which, one of your teachers will be a student themselves,

• Diversity awareness • Campus involvement LEARN MORE:

transitions.gmu.edu likely only a year or two older than you and able to share with you the college experience as something between a mentor and a friend. I immediately applied to become a Peer Advisor myself after taking the class, and now I get to pass on the things I learned and the fun I had to new students. It is easily the most rewarding part of my life here at Mason, and I have a feeling that you’ll agree once you’ve taken this class.

Summer /Fall 2019 | 9

Reprinted from Freshman Focus 2018

Take it from me: one of the wisest choices you can make right now is signing up for University 100 (UNIV 100) for your first semester.

Worth one credit, this class will be your cheat sheet for transitioning into college and making sure you thrive and survive here. It’s a lowstress, casual environment where the curriculum is tailored to address your needs. It can be anywhere from pragmatic things like accessing campus resources, developing your professionalism, and connecting to opportunities you may not hear about elsewhere to more sensitive things like dealing with roommate problems, trouble making friends, and

UNIVERSITY 100 CURRICULUM TOPICS

Photo courtesy of Alex Dzuricky

ou want to get the most out of your time here at college, and there’s no shortage of people willing to offer you some advice. You’ve already made the right choice in coming to Mason, but your decision-making doesn’t end there.

Maybe you’re still asking yourself, “what should I choose for a major?” or “what clubs should I join?” or “what classes should I take?” Maybe you’ve already got most of that squared away, but there’s still more for you to find that you didn’t even know.

OUR

NICHE

First-person stories about getting involved and finding your place here at Mason.

ERIN RODGERS

SUMMER BROWN

Staff Writer

Staff Writer

As a research assistant in the School of Integrative Studies, I’m grateful for the opportunity that I’ve had to conduct social justice-oriented research alongside faculty members. For me, this took the form of an independent study where I helped develop research questions, collected literature, and gathered preliminary data. Fall semester I am doing another independent study in order to gather the rest of the data and begin to analyze it so we can publish our findings. With this opportunity, I feel as if I’ve not only grown academically, but as a person as well. Each day I learn more and more about myself, such as how interested I am in the research process or how interesting the topic of social justice is. As a freshman, it’s so important to find a place that not only challenges you in your studies, but also that allows you to thrive as an individual. I’ve definitely found that place and more here at Mason, and I encourage you to find your place as well!

I Photo courtesy of Erin Rodgers

C

oming to Mason, I was amazed by the number of student organizations on campus that I could join. Soon enough, I got involved with Every Nation Campus and Club Field Hockey, where I’ve been able to meet great people that I couldn’t have gotten through my first year without. While these are both great organizations, I also wanted to be a part of something that aligned with me academically; this is where I found my second home in the School of Integrative Studies.

n high school, I did nothing. Quickly, through the college application process, I realized that by not getting involved, I was going to miss opportunities.

I stumbled upon Student Government at Mason. At orientation, a member of the Student Senate told to me about the organization and I immediately gained interest. Later, I talked to the vice president and we discussed the processes of joining.

Throughout my time at Mason, I have accomplished a lot. I have been able to participate in 11 initiatives to improve campus, submit 150+ work orders for essential repairs, work on an international project that goes beyond Mason, build relationships with departments on campus, and make friends along the way. This all started with one student organization, which has allowed me to join other groups on campus. If anything, Student Government helped me transition from a highschooler to a busy college student who is active in the community.

College can be intimidating at first — you’re alone now. You might know others attending with you, but our university is so big that it can make you feel small.

I get that. I truly do, as I was there just nine months ago. The best thing you can do for yourself is get involved at Mason. No matter how hard you look, you will find something that you will fall in love with that makes you feel at home.

Summer /Fall 2019 | 11

Photo courtesy of Summer Brown

finding

6 TIPS

f o r c o l l e g i at e

SUCCESS ERIK SATHER Contributor

T

here are many things that one can do to start preparing for college. In fact, there are potentially too many things available now to do in preparation for college life. Perhaps you assume your high school experience as a club president, a member of an honor society, or even a valedictorian of your class has already prepared you for all you’ll encounter at a university. In truth, it might matter very little what you’ve done to prepare for the transition — success in high school doesn’t necessarily transfer into college.

So, we get to start with the good news!

College is a fresh start for everyone, tablua rasa, a clean slate, and it comes with both academic as well as ideological freedom. In many ways, the decisions you make in the first two years of your college career will have the most impact on the remaining years at university.

The advice outlined here aims to help you not only survive the first year of college, but to thrive during that time.

Make sure to always be sure to be yourself and try to enjoy your college experience as much as possible. Expect to feel some stress and homesickness, but don’t let these issues wear you down.

So, without further ado… Here are 6 tips for flourishing at Mason:

12 | Freshman Focus

1

4

2

5

SHOW UP. Go to all orientation events; the faster you learn the basics, like your way around campus, the more at ease and prepared you’ll feel when traffic, chaos, and the unexpected happens. And go to class! Sleeping in and skipping that 8 am class will be VERY tempting at times, but avoid the temptation.

NEW HOME, NEW FAM! Get to know roommates and others in your residence hall. It seems simple, but the people you live with are often going through similar experiences or emotions and can be a source of comfort and understanding.

Taking time to get to know your peers and professors expands your safety net.

3

GET TO KNOW YOUR ADVISORS & PROFESSORS. There only seem to be upsides to getting to know your professors, especially if you need their help later in the semester.

Professors schedule office hours for your benefit so take advantage of them. Academic advisors are also a key resource you can turn to for help with conflicts, scheduling, and deciding on majors or minors. Don’t be afraid of requesting another advisor if you don’t click with the one first assigned to you.

GET ORGANIZED & STAY ORGANIZED! This will alleviate many, many headaches. Unlike in high school, college professors expect you to be prepared on your own. Use an organizer, an app, or a big wall calendar — whatever it takes to meet deadlines and avoid procrastination.

TAKE ACADEMICS SERIOUSLY. Professors provide syllabi and calendars so that you will know exactly what is expected of you and when, but it’s your responsibility to stay on top of dues dates and exam schedules. Good grades may have come easily in high school, but you will have to earn them in college. That means setting goals and working hard to achieve them.

6

SEEK BALANCE & GET INVOLVED. College life is all about balancing social life and academic responsibility. Try a variety of things but only pursue the ones you enjoy most. Don’t try to do too much or you’ll disturb the balance.

My final piece of advice is to remember that you are not alone and that reaching out to others for support is expected.

GOOD LUCK AND HAVE FUN!

my

FAVORITE

STUDY SPOTS Original photos by:

IAN SHIFF Ian is a freshman marketing student, a freelance photographer, and a beatboxer for Mason Some Noise, the premiere co-ed a cappella group.

 FENWICK LIBRARY is a great study spot and has quiet zones and comfy pods to help you focus when preparing for midterms or finals. You can reserve rooms within the stacks to work on group projects.

THE JOHNSON CENTER

 MASON POND is perfect for a picnic or a relaxing afternoon in warmer months. Plenty of benches and beautiful foliage surround the boat house and pond with changing leaves in fall and colorful blossoms in spring.

NORTHERN NECK STARBUCKS

 THE RIDGE is a late-night study lounge complete with couches and outlets to charge your devices.

Located between the Sandbridge and Blue Ridge residence halls, The Ridge doubles as a study lounge and event space.

Summer /Fall 2019 | 13

learn from

WORLD-RENOWNED

FACULTY NANDINI TIVAKARAN Staff Writer

Beyond any of my first-year extracurricular experiences at Mason, my academic ones have been most transformative. Like most of my peers, I had vague ideas about my post-collegiate pursuits that vaguely corresponded with a major. But after taking a few classes, the uncertainty hit me. How am I, as an 18-year-old, supposed to make decisions about what I want for the rest of my life without precisely knowing my future goals? I’ve learned that it is unlikely I can know every detail about my future, but I know Mason has the resources and guidance I need to make informed decisions.

14 | Freshman Focus

Photo courtesy of Nandini Tivakaran

A

s a prospective economics major, I was absolutely intimidated by Mason’s status as a top-tier research university represented by two Nobel laureate economists. I subsequently expected my professors to be cold and focused more on their research than on their students. I never expected that out of 36,297 students, my professors would care about an insignificant freshman named Nandini. I was proven wrong for the first of many times during my freshman year. Mason defies all the stereotypes of large research universities, as it maintains cutting-edge research while providing students personalized care.

“YOUR ACADEMIC EXPERIENCE AT MASON CAN BE MORE TRANSFORMATIVE THAN YOU THINK, IF YOU ARE WILLING TO LET IT TRANSFORM YOU.”

IT’S ACADEMIC •M ason has been classified twice as a “Carnegie Tier-1” research institution.

•O n track to meet goal of $225M in annual research expenditures by 2024.

•F aculty includes Fulbright, Pulitzer, & Nobel recipients.

Not only do Mason’s professors help transform their students into powerfully articulate and forthright individuals, but they also care about us. Who else would voluntarily invite clueless young students to their offices to let us barrage them with questions?

They care more than we know. For example, my economics professor Dr. Thomas Rustici says that he is “willing to move mountains” for his students, provided that we approach him.

I’ve found that professors hold an abundance of wisdom and thoughtful advice, but to access it, we are responsible for two prerequisites: (1) honestly asking our questions, however trivial they may be and (2) approaching them with the sincerity that we will give their answers a chance.

While it can be overwhelming to approach leaders in their fields with academic or personal questions, I’ve learned that to not take advantage of this opportunity would be a waste of both their time and mine.

After all, when else will I have the uninterrupted ear of a worldrenowned scholar? Your academic experience at Mason can be more transformative than you think, if you are willing to let it transform you.

Summer /Fall 2019 | 15

SOMETHING STIRS F R O M B E YO N D. . .

Introducing Mason’s ONLY

SCI-FI & FANTASY literary magazine:

Submit your original works: theforgegmu@gmail.com

WEB StudyAbroad.gmu.edu • EMAIL GoAbroad@gmu.edu • PHONE 703-993-2154

W r i t e yo u r

NEXT

CHAPTER ROSEMARY WRIGHT Staff Writer

M

My private teacher and my studio class showed me so much support, so much kindness, and even brought a warming sense of friendship. I quickly felt that same warmth from other voice professors and faculty in the music department. Every single professor that I have interacted with at Mason’s School of Music (SoM) truly cares deeply about young artists and their craft. All my professors here, especially those in the voice department, have helped me learn so much about myself, but more importantly, how I need to

STRIKE A CHORD • The School of Music offers over 20 academic programs and concentrations in performance, composition, technology, and more.

Photo courtesy of Rosemary Wright

y biggest fear coming into college was that I wouldn’t be able to keep up. The busy schedule, the thousands of people, all the new friends I’d have to make. And most importantly, staying on top of my studies as a vocal performance major. I’ve loved to sing my whole life, but I was afraid of being crushed under the pressure of the music school. I was especially afraid of the older, more knowledgeable, and accomplished students. I only had started classical training about two years ago, and I was unsure if the other students would look down on me. Luckily, I realized that those fears were wrong as early as the first day of classes.

“MY PROFESSORS HAVE HELPED ME LEARN SO MUCH ABOUT MYSELF. I FOUND A STRONGER SENSE OF CONFIDENCE AND LEARNED TO ALWAYS BE PREPARED.” think about myself. Putting yourself in a negative light, as I did upon first coming to Mason, will greatly affect the way you share your art with others, and it will greatly affect the way others see you. Through their teachings, I learned to find a stronger — though nowhere near perfect — sense of confidence and I learned the importance of always being prepared.

• Mason’s 40+ musical and theatre ensembles present over 100 concerts, recitals, and workshops each year.

LEARN MORE:

music.gmu.edu I have gained such wonderful opportunities by learning these lessons. Through hard work and dedication, I was able to place first in my category at the Virginia state NATS (National Association of Teachers of Singing). When I was preparing for, and performing at NATS, I was of course able to gain valuable practice for stressful auditions in the future, but I was also able to gain a sense of pride through the hard work that I’ve put into my craft. Through lessons learned, as well as my experience at NATS, I have been inspired to keep pushing, growing, and learning. Mason’s School of Music is such a special place. I’m so thankful that I have the opportunity to call it my home!

Summer /Fall 2019 | 17

choosing

YOUR

MAJOR MACKENZIE NELSON Staff Writer

W

Photo courtesy Mackenzie Nelson

hen coming to college, most people think there is an expectation to already know your major as well as your plans for the future. While that is true for some, choosing your major isn’t always as clear for others. The idea of trying to pick one field to pursue for the rest of your life can be scary, but it is also very exciting!

When coming to college, now is the perfect time to try new things and figure out what you like. This also applies to choosing your major.

Here are a few tips to consider when exploring your options:

1

UTILIZE YOUR DEPT’S WEBSITE AND MASON’S COURSE CATALOG. When navigating each academic department’s website, you will be able to explore each degree’s requirements, keep up-to-date on the department news, and find out what events are happening on campus. The Course Catalog (catalog.gmu.edu/courses) is also a great resource to explore different majors and decide when to schedule your courses.

2

MEET WITH ACADEMIC ADVISORS. Exploring different majors can be confusing, so meeting with an academic advisor from that school can be very helpful. Don’t be afraid to ask any questions that you may have!

18 | Freshman Focus

3

5

4

6

TAKE A FEW CLASSES WITHIN THOSE MAJORS. Another way to help you decide which major to choose is to take a class or two within the field you are considering.

This can be helpful in getting a little experience and insight into what the major consists of.

REMEMBER: DON’T RUSH INTO IT. Take your time! Don’t feel pressured to declare a major right away. This is about your future. You will have, and you do have, time to talk with professors, advisors, and to follow where your research takes you. With that being said, don’t feel the need to rush into anything.

You have time!

GO TO DIFFERENT DEPARTMENT’S EVENTS. If you see a flyer or announcement for an event hosted by a department you’re interested in, then go! This is a great opportunity to network and to get another individual’s perspective.

EVERYONE HAS A DIFFERENT PATH. When choosing your major, remember that you are following your own path and yours alone. Consider all of your options and do what is best for you.

The Center for Academic Advising, Retention, & Transitions is dedicated to helping you achieve academic success. Learn more at advising.gmu.edu.

green

MACHINE

Photo courtesy of Creative Services

PHYLICIA WHITE Staff Writer

L

Prior to coming to Mason, I knew I wanted to be a lawyer. As I transitioned into high school, I was able to narrow it down to being a criminal defense attorney. During the summer of my junior year, I received a flyer in the mail detailing an event regarding future law students and lawyers. I knew that I had found my dream school.

When I officially arrived at Mason in August, it was such an eventful experience. Everyone I encountered was so nice and genuine, but I couldn’t help to feel unsure and homesick. As weeks had gone by, I still felt at a sense of lost.

One friend named Teresa, kept raving

about a group called Green Machine.

One day I went with her to practice and my life was forever changed.

Photo courtesy of Phylicia White

ooking back at my freshman year, I am happy that I made the ultimate decision to attend Mason. This is my home away from home. I did not think I would be able to thrive so effortlessly in a new state and I never truly thought that I would find my footing within a place of vast opportunities. However, I can say that I finally have.

“WITHOUT GREEN MACHINE, I DON’T KNOW HOW MY FRESHMAN YEAR WOULD HAVE TURNED OUT.”

#1 PEP BAND! Green Machine was named the top pep band in the nation by the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) in 2015. Watch them in action: youtube.com/gmugreenmachine LEARN MORE:

greenmachine.gmu.edu

I have always enjoyed being a part of the arts in some way. Everything from playing instruments, being a cast in plays and/or musicals, joining color guard, singing at talent shows, and even becoming a member of the marching band. When I finally gathered my courage and joined the Green Machine, I realized that it was the best decision that I had made in my freshman year.

The environment is welcoming and you are guaranteed a good time at every basketball practice and game.

Currently, I am in the vocalist section, but you can be a part of any section, as you are welcomed with literal open arms. Within the Green Machine, I’ve made the most amazing friends and encountered so many interesting and fun-loving people. Without Green Machine, I really don’t know how my freshman year would have turned out.

But one thing is for sure: the best is yet to come with my friends in the Green Machine. Stay tuned!

Summer /Fall 2019 | 21

gOIng

GREEK? Photo by Craig Bisacre/Creative Services

ZACH WOLFSON

Staff Writer

Staff Writer

22 | Freshman Focus

J

oining Greek life at Mason has been one of the best decisions that I’ve made since becoming a student here. On my very first day on campus, I had a vague idea that I wanted to join a Greek organization.

Photo courtesy of Zach Wolfson

C

oming to Mason, I knew I wanted to join a sorority to be more involved on campus, to help with the transition from high school to college.

Living in the dorms my freshman year, I knew that I wanted to find a sorority that I could call my “home away from home.” Going through recruitment, I did not know what to expect. I had to trust that I would end up in the right sorority, one that was meant for me. Luckily, I found my home at Alpha Omicron Pi. The women within this chapter have shown me genuine sisterhood. Greek life here at Mason is completely different than any other university. There’s so much diversity and unity within the different chapters on campus. The decision of going Greek has helped me build better leadership skills and stressed the importance of my education here at Mason. With Greek Week bringing all the Greek organizations together, this past year, we were able to collectively raise $30,566 for the Shelter House, almost $3,000 for the Bee Foundation, and we even collected 17,871 pounds of cans for Food for Others. There is so much more to Greek life than the stereotypes make it out to be. Being a part of Mason’s chapter of Alpha Omicron Pi has been a rewarding experience, one that I would suggest to anyone at Mason.

Photo courtesy of Chierren Denman

CHIERREN DENMAN

However, I didn’t necessarily know where to start; and when the Fall 2018 Rush period began, I met so many awesome brothers in various fraternities.

After eventually accepting a bid from Alpha Epsilon Pi, Mason’s Jewish Fraternity, I gained a sense of the incredible experience Greek life has to offer. From giving back through philanthropy, to being a part of a vibrant community, to building lifelong friendships, Greek life has made my time here at Mason exponentially better.

I don’t think my college experience would have been nearly as enriching had I not been a brother of Alpha Epsilon Pi. With that being said, I cannot recommend joining Greek life enough to Mason students.

1,800+

40+

Community Members

Fraternities & Sororities

LEARN MORE:

si.gmu.edu/greek-life

The Hub, Suite 2300 | 703.993.2909

IT’S Time TO GET INVOLVED!

Student Involvement

We help students GetConnected to Mason Nation through campuswide events, student organizations, trainings, student advocacy, and personal interactions to bring ideas to fruition, create a sense of belonging, and prepare students for success in their future.

Let’s Be Social MasonInvolvement MasonPatriots MasonPatriots si.gmu.edu

REGISTERED STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS

getconnected.gmu.edu Joining one (or more) of the 350+ student organizations can be one of the best ways to build your experience at Mason! If you don’t see an organization that interests you, you can start your own!

STUDENT GOVERNMENT

sg.gmu.edu Student Government represents students and advocates on behalf of the student body. SG provides leadership opportunities for students to work with university administration to create change on campus.

TEDXGEORGEMASONU

tedx.gmu.edu A division of TED made for selfstarters who want to execute their own conference and present “Ideas worth Spreading”. This organization’s primary goal is to present the brilliant minds that have compelling ideas on how to better our world.

FRATERNITY AND SORORITY LIFE

With over 1,800+ students involved in more than 35 national and international fraternities and sororities, they set high academic standards and provide opportunities for campus involvement, networking, and leadership development.

PATRIOT ACTIVITIES COUNCIL

The student programming board works to bring fun events to the campus community! PAC ignites school spirit by hosting DIY activities, concerts, carnivals, and so much more!

WELL-BEING TEAM

The Well-Being Team contributes toward a well-being culture on campus through programming and peer-led workshops that allow all members of the Mason community to thrive!

OFF-CAMPUS STUDENT INVOLVEMENT

We’re providing opportunities for students living off-campus to engage in university life at Mason! Our goal is to create connections to resources, organizations, and other members of the off-campus community.

SI AT THE CFA

cfa.gmu.edu Student Involvement partners with the Center for the Arts to provide performances that the student body will be sure to enjoy! Who do you want to see throughout the year?

FREE MOVIES!

We strive to keep students involved outside of their academic work, and one of our favorite things to do is watch movies! Every month we will be providing FREE movie showings on and off-campus!

s e i z e yo u r

LEADERSHIP

MOMENT SEAN DIMENT Staff Writer

The car ride is 3.5 hours, and I talk to my parents the majority of the time.

I’m wearing my green George Mason University Patriots shirt loud and proud. We recap, and talk about how crazy it is that I’m heading to college and how it feels like orientation was just yesterday. During orientation, my mom accumulated an entire bag of free stuff. She would yank my arm towards each table — even if I wasn’t majoring in that subject — saying “Hey, free is free!” My dad stayed away from the 24 | Freshman Focus

Photo courtesy of Sean Diment

“H

ey Sean! Make sure you have everything,” I hear my mom say for the millionth time. I walk around the house to do one last sweep through. I take my time though, as I know this will be the last chance to wander through my house until Thanksgiving. As I slowly walk down the hallways, I closely examine family pictures, feel the beige walls, and take one last good look at my room. My pictures from childhood, artwork from middle school, and prized possessions like my 2007 World Series baseball signed by David Ortiz, look back at me with a final salute. As I say “see you later” to my room, I stand by the door and say “thank you” to my house before walking out.

“THE BIGGEST LESSON OF COLLEGE FOR ME HAS BEEN GRATITUDE...

REMEMBER THAT YOU HAVE SOMEONE TO THANK FOR GETTING YOU WHERE YOU ARE.” action, casually refreshing Twitter and biting his tongue to avoid making a sarcastic comment. The conversation about orientation fades, as we see the campus appear on the horizon.

During move in, my mom asserts complete control over the process and usurps the role from the move-in volunteers. She repacks everything they put in the green bin, while my

dad and I shoot each other a look, but it is not one of surprise. To my mom, I’m her baby boy; and after having been an independent child, she just wants to help one last time. The same takes place in my room, as she does the majority of the setting up, saying “a mother knows best.” When the room is done, we head to lunch at Panera Bread in the JC to eat one last meal together. Our family tradition is to eat out every Saturday night after church, and this moment was no different. We hug, and say our goodbyes, but not before my mom asks a random stranger to take a family portrait in front of the George Mason statue. I hug them, say my final goodbye, and turn to walk towards my door, not looking back, but forward. Everyone’s holding back tears, but we go our separate ways. Getting back to my dorm, I take a look at the letter and picture frame my mom secretly left in my drawer. It had kind messages from my family members on it, and reminded me of my purpose at this school: to make them proud, and build the foundation up for my future.

This year, I have been so privileged to have had the opportunity to serve in Mason’s Student Government as Vice-Chairman and then Chairman

of the University Life Committee. I focused my work this year on increasing Patriot Pride, honoring the sacrifice of American Veterans, sexual assault prevention, campus safety, and keeping our campus clean. Through the program that I created, Maintain Mason, students on campus are able to use biodegradable materials to collect trash. This year, we collected over 2,200 cigarette butts, and over 200 pounds of trash with in a fairly short period of time! Additionally, I am a member of the Filipino Cultural Association and now serve as the Health Director for the NAACP where I will be focusing my attention on increasing awareness and accessibility to STD tests on campus. I feel that this year, I have continued to remind myself where I came from, and through classes at the Honors College like my Leadership, Civility, and Personal Responsibility course, I have grown as a leader and a human being. Currently, I am majoring in Biology while minoring in Spanish, as I hope to join the Medical Service Corps through the United States Navy.

Through my leadership positions and thanks to the countless opportunities Mason has to offer, I hopefully will be able to achieve my goals and aspirations. However, I always think back to what my family did for me to get here by offering their love and support. The biggest lesson of college for me has been gratitude, and to remember that no matter who you are, you have someone to thank in this world for getting you where you are today. I feel that I have matured so much during my time at Mason, and am so excited for what is yet to come. Good luck, fellow Patriots!

TAKE THE LEAD...

•T he Leadership Education and Development (LEAD) office believes that everyone has the potential to be a leader and provides training, resources, and recognition to empower students.

•H osts the annual LeaderShape Institute retreat to help students develop leadership capacity.

•O rganizes Freedom & Learning Forums to bring guest speakers like chef José Andrés and Parkland survivor Cameron Kasky to campus.

•O ffers Meyers-Briggs, StrengthsFinder, and Emotional Intelligence assessments.

LEARN MORE:

Disability Services University Life WHAT IS A DISABILITY? According to the Americans with Disability Act, “An individual with a disability is defined by the ADA as a person who has a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities, a person who has a history or record of such an impairment, or a person who is perceived by others as having such an impairment.”

Some disabilities are invisible. Don't judge people and remember that you don't know exactly what anybody else is going through.

TOP 10 MOST COMMON DISABILITIES AT MASON 1. Psychological 2. ADD/ADHD 3. Learning Disabilities 4. Medical 5. Asperger/Autism 6. Neurological 7. Deaf/HoH 8. Mobility 9. Visual 10. Brain Injury

HOW CAN I BE AN ALLY? People are more than their disability.

Don’t assume that you know what their disability is or that you know their identity. Never underestimate them.

Physical aids (wheelchairs, service animals) are an extension of a person, treat them as such. Be respectful of everybody and their right for privacy. Remember that language is powerful.

AVAILABLE SERVICES Disability Services also supports faculty and staff in a variety of ways, such as providing consultation regarding student concerns and information about disabilities and their effects.

Housing accommodations Meal plan accommodations Academic accommodations Referrals to campus/community resources

lead.gmu.edu LEARN MORE AT ODS.GMU.EDU

SOURCES: bls.gov/study.com/articles/Pediatric_Therapists_Salary_Job_Description_and_Duties.html

@GMUPSYCHOLOGY

/GMUPSYCHOLOGY

AROUND

the

GLOBE

First-person stories about finding a new home on a new continent.

NATALIA KANOS Staff Writer

“I

I was so excited to leave home; that was until I got to Mason. Leaving my small town of Jos, Nigeria and taking a 21-hour flight to Fairfax was exciting.

For weeks on end, I planned out how my dorm would look and what clubs and organizations I would join. I was excited to move on to campus and to start my new life with independence.

Move-in day was a blast, I finally was able to fall in love with a campus that I had never toured. While I was standing there, in my dorm, I realized that I was ready. This is where I’d be spending the first year of my college experience. This is where I could find independence.

However, all of that disappeared in a matter of minutes after my mum left.

I waved goodbye, while she sat in her Uber, and I made my way back in to my dorm. I closed the door and sat at my desk and I realized I was alone. I was in a different country; different

Photo courtesy of Natalia Kanos

hate it here.” ” I want to go home.” “Nobody gets me.” “I think I made a mistake.” These were all statements I made in my first couple of weeks at Mason. How did I get here you’d ask? Well, let me tell you:

“ONCE I STOPPED PUTTING SO MUCH PRESSURE ON MYSELF, EVERYTHING FELL INTO PLACE.” place and I was alone. I knew nobody, nobody knew me, and the first couple weeks were filled with a deep sense of sadness. I knew no one, I was far away from home, away with people I had grown up with for eighteen years. I had to start all over again.

While this might seem like a sad story, and the worst college experience ever, it was (and is) not all doom and gloom.

Slowly, I fell in love with Mason. At

first it took time, but then it happened all at once. You make friends at the least expected times; like a late-night bus ride to Walmart, where I met three of the craziest girls. It was such an innocent encounter but it luckily turned in to a wild and treasured friendship. After that moment it was a domino effect, as I felt more and more at home. My love for Mason sprung from events hosted by African Student Association where I bonded with a community that reminded me of home, joining Student Government, and interacting with Mason’s diverse population. Once I stopped putting so much pressure on making friends, trying to be a different version of myself, everything fell into place.

While I have found my niche, I still miss home, Nigerian food, my family, and my friends. As an international student, it is important to lean on your family and motivate yourself with the sacrifices they are making for you to be here. I learned to live in the moment and embrace the experiences and interactions I have, instead of forcing them to happen. Mason’s supportive community has made all the difference.

Summer /Fall 2019 | 27

AROUND

the

GLOBE

First-person stories about finding a new home on a new continent.

DEEMA TURKOMANI Staff Writer

I

The process of applying to colleges was scary. I had lived in Bahrain all my life. I didn’t know what schools were good. I didn’t know where I’d feel comfortable. But, luckily, I remembered visiting Mason a few years back with my brother and hearing about it from my alumni cousins. When I was able to visit again I felt a sense of belonging. In front of Sub I there were painted benches from student organizations representing a wide variety of Mason’s diversity. At that moment, I knew that I could be a part of this community.

Now here I am, three weeks away from the end of my freshman year. I am miles upon miles away from my 28 | Freshman Focus

Photo courtesy of Deema Turkomani

remember waking my mom and friend up at 3 AM to sit and watch the Tony Awards with me.

I remember staring at the television, seeing the awards and credit given to Middle Eastern actors in ‘The Band’s Visit.’ With the conflict and politics aside, I was empowered and in awe seeing those performers get their welldeserved praise. I knew that I needed to have my own ‘Band’s Visit’ moment, and that is why I moved to America.

“I FOCUS ON REACHING MY GOAL AS A PERFORMER AND ARTIST, AS I KNOW IT WILL MAKE MY PARENTS AND COUNTRY PROUD.” home, reflecting back on the past few months. I can’t believe that I am already here, as it has gone by so fast. The bonds I’ve created with such passionate and genuine people, petting dogs and drinking giveaway smoothies during finals week and my job at the Center For The Arts here at Mason has brought me a sense of belonging.

In all honesty, it has been hard being so far away from my home, Bahrain.

I miss my family and cat dearly, but I’ve been able to keep myself busy with the right people, the endless amount of rehearsals, and my studies. Those things have helped me to miss them a little less, as I focus on reaching my goal as a performer and artist, as I know it will make my parents and country proud.

As an Arab woman, it is exciting to break the stereotype that comes with my identity in America. I am able to attend Mason, work towards the goals that I’ve dreamt of since that time in front of that television screen, as well as teach others of my own Arab identity. Mason has already given me so many opportunities in my first year alone; From performing with talented actors in the Mason Players’ ‘Fringe’ production of ‘The Wolves’ by Sarah Delappe and training to welcome incoming freshman this summer as a Patriot Leader.

LEARN MORE:

ofps.gmu.edu/patriot-leaders theater.gmu.edu

Review online resources to learn more about how to prepare for and respond to emergencies that might occur on campus or in our region.

F

rom Welcome2Mason in the fall to Mason Day in the spring, something exciting is always happening on campus!

We’ve collected some of the most popular events here, but always be on the lookout for the next big thing to happen at Mason.

WELCOME 2 MASON



AUG/SEPT 2019 — Mason offers a wide variety of events

and activities for students to meet their fellow Patriots and get involved with clubs and organizations. What used to be a single week of welcome events now runs throughout the entire first month of classes so more students can experience all Mason has to offer!

fall SEPTEMBER SORORITY/FRATERNITY RECRUITMENT FALL FOR THE BOOK FESTIVAL

oCToBER mason madness

noVEMBER family WeeKend gold rush

DECEMBER de-stress fest george mason’s birthday

spring MaRCH health and fitness eXpo lgbtQ pride WeeK

APRIL sibs and Kids WeeKend



greeK WeeK mason taKes oVer Kings dominion

MASON DAY

APRIL 2020 — Mason Day has been held every spring

REPEAT EVENTS VOLITION open mic nights CAREER FAIRS 30

(careers.gmu.edu)

(volition.gmu.edu)

for over 50 years and has evolved into a major celebration where students, families, faculty, and community members come together for live music, carnival rides and games, food trucks, and lots of free giveaways. Student Involvement hosts the festival in Lot L next to EagleBank Arena in late April.

INTERNATIONAL WEEK



APRIL 2020 — Travel around the world without leaving campus!

Ph

oto

s co

ur t es y

of C

r ea

t iv

eS

er v

ices

The annual iWeek parade kicks off a celebration of all the cultures that make Mason a vibrant and diverse place to live and study. Enjoy sport tournaments, food tastings, trivia, dance competitions, and more.



HOMECOMING

FEB 2020 — There may be snow on the ground, but

nothing can stop the Mason Patriots from leaving it all on the court. Homecoming is much more than just the big basketball game! Festivities include a parade, block parties, spirit competitions, Mason Majesty, and more. One thing’s for sure: the cold can’t stop our Patriot Pride!

31

MAKe

An

IMPACT

Photo courtesy of Creative Services/Alexis Glenn

CEDRIC PRICE Staff Writer

S

In Student Government’s history, several initiatives have been implemented and advocated on behalf of students. A select few include the active efforts in student IDs having the Mason Police Department’s phone number located on the back; the proposal of the Independence meal plan option, which is a popular choice amongst students; and, even the creation of two unique programs that serve to provide a service to the university and leadership opportunities 32 | Freshman Focus

for students — Mason Stewards and Maintain Mason.

Photo courtesy of Cedric Price

tudent Government serves as the official representation of the students, where the role is to represent and promote the student’s interests. As Student Government is an elected group of forty student senators, making up the Legislative Branch, and approximately thirty elected and appointed members of the Executive Branch, these positions have had a wealth of active and passionate students committed to making a positive difference.

WHAT IS SG? • Advocates on behalf of the student body and serves as a liaison to administrators, faculty, and the community.

• Student Body President, VP, and 30 Student Senators are elected each spring.

• Appointed members serve on Parking Appeals, Student Funding, and Dining boards.

• Organizes the annual Mason Lobbies event in Richmond, VA to meet with state reps.

LEARN MORE:

sg.gmu.edu

Student Government has also worked to tackle matters involving discussions with university administrators.

In the past, Student Government has aimed to pass a plethora of resolutions, some focused on tackling the issue of sexual assault prevention, addressing appropriate measures for active shooters, and even holding the university accountable for their decisions, as well as much more.

Student Government has also worked to allow for students to receive access to course syllabi before course registration and they have worked to allocate funds to provide scantrons free of charge to students.

Student Government without question is a powerful force capable of making a significant impact here at Mason. As we work to serve the student body, the past accomplishments prove that the student’s voice is, in fact, a powerful voice!

GET YOUR WORK PUBLISHED!

HAVE YOU WRITTEN A RESEARCH PAPER? We are looking for exemplary undergraduate writing from across the curriculum that re-visions scholarship!

georgemasonreview.submittable.com SPORTS | NEWS | EVENTS | STUDENT PROJECTS

CAMPUS CHANNEL 8.1

CAREER CONFIDENCE

for credit, at Mason

Finalizing your plans for the fall semester? Consider these one-credit career courses to help you answer the questions: what major should I choose, and what am I going to do with it?

Decide/Confirm Major UNIV 220: Identify the path that’s right for your interests, skills, and personality.

Internship/Career Readiness UNIV 320: Pursue internships and other career-related experiences.

REGISTER NOW FOR CAREER COURSES

details: careers.gmu.edu/careercourses

STUDENT ACCOUNTS

www. gmufourthestate .com

Communication Policy The Student Accounts Office communicates with students via their Mason email address. Students are required to activate their Mason email account and check it regularly.

Electronic Billing Balances are accessible electronically through the Bill and Payment System. Paper invoices are not mailed.

Semester ebills are sent electronically to students and authorized users.

Authorized Users Students may set up authorized users in the Bill and Payment System for access to the student account.

Authorized users will receive ebill notices, be able to review account activity, and make payments. Please visit our website for the guide to set up an authorized user to the Bill and Payment System.

Registration Policies and Class Drop Deadlines Classes will not be canceled for nonpayment or nonattendance. Please visit studentaccounts.gmu. edu for penalty deadlines. Students are responsible for confirming the withdrawal of any classes by the published liability deadlines.

saccount@gmu.edu 703.993.2484

studentaccounts.gmu.edu

@GeorgeMasonRec

recreation.gmu.edu

club and intramural sports:

GET ACTIVE ANNA BERTINO Staff Writer

I

Long story short, going to that interest meeting was the best decision I’ve made within my freshman year. I tried out in late September, and by October was competing with Mason’s Intercollegiate Horse Show Association (IHSA) team.

Every week, I got to take a break from worrying about papers and exams. I was able to head out to the barn, to focus on my horsemanship and equitation instead.

Weekly lessons gave me the ability to decompress in a non-school environment, and snuggle some ponies, while also building solid friendships with people I wouldn’t have gotten to meet otherwise.

Being part of a team was something I didn’t know was missing in my life. We all practice together, sure, but it’s more than that. It’s the shared experiences within a tight community that really make Mason feel more like home. We share the frustration of low placings, commiserate waking up at 5am to host competitions — which there’s never enough coffee — and celebrate any and all victories together. There’s always a shoulder to lean on when you need it.

Early in the spring semester I was elected to serve as treasurer in the culmination of my own personal cowgirl Cinderella story. A leadership position in my first year seemed out of reach, but it was much more attainable than I’d ever imagined. I am excited to continue to grow within this team, both on horseback and as a leader.

JOIN THESE CLUB SPORTS:

Photos courtesy of Anna Bertino

’ve never been a very athletic person. I was the archetypal “theater kid” in high school, the natural enemy of the student athlete. So, I was pretty surprised to find myself joining Mason’s Equestrian Club and show team in the fall of my freshman year. I’d taken riding lessons in middle school, and while I loved it, I was never really very good. So, in true cliche “freshman year of college” fashion — and mostly on a whim — I decided to go to the interest meeting.

MEN’S

CO-REC

• Baseball

• Badminton

• Football

• Ice Hockey • Lacrosse • Rugby

• Soccer

• Ultimate

• Volleyball

WOMEN’S

• Basketball

• Ice Hockey • Lacrosse • Rugby

• Soccer

• Softball

• Ultimate

• Volleyball

• Brazilian Jujitsu • Crew • Cycling • E-Sports • Equestrian • Fencing •F ield Hockey • Log Rolling •P ower Lifting • Quidditch • Running • Ski & Snowboard • Squash • Swimming • Tae Kwon Do • Tennis • Trap & Skeet • Triathlon • Underwater Hockey

WANT TO START A NEW CLUB? Interested in taking part in Club Sports when you come to campus? Remember to bring your equipment with you when you move in — some clubs start practicing the first week of the semester!

Don’t see the club you are interested in?

Visit our website and set up a meeting with us to help get a new club started!

Email gmuclubsports@gmail.com.

clubsports.gmu.edu

Summer /Fall 2019 | 35

o u t s ta n d i n g

FRESHMEN

ATHLETES ROSS SHINBERG Contributor

DEANNA BALSAMA Women’s Lacrosse Finished first on the team in goals (49), assists (22) and points (71). Named A-10 Rookie of the Year and earned All-Conference 2nd Team Honors.

ANNUAL SPIRIT EVENTS • Mason Mayhem (August) • College Colors Day (September) • Mason Madness (October) • Gold Rush (November)

MARLANNA BOZICEVICH Women’s Volleyball Played in 22 matches as a freshman. Her best game came at Davidson when she set season-high marks in digs, kills, points, and blocks.

• Homecoming (February) • Mason Day (April)

GO PATRIOTS! • Show your valid Mason ID and attend all Athletic events for free!

• Attend the Game of the

JAMAL HARTWELL II Men’s Basketball Played in 31 games. In his lone start against Richmond, he scored a career-high 15 points in 31 minutes. His three point percentage is 44.6%.

Week and receive a new giveaway item or free food each week (for Mason students only).

• Check out the Fan Central link at www.gomason.com for the latest sports news and schedules.

Women’s Soccer

• Watch Athletic events from your dorm on Mason Cable Network 8.1 or anywhere via ESPN+!

Named Virginia Sports Information Director Player of the Year. Named Rookie of the Year and First Team All-State Forward.

36 | Freshman Focus

LEARN MORE:

gomason.com

Photos courtesy of Mason Athletics

EMMA VAN DER VORST

Want a Career in Sports Media?

Join the Sports Broadcasting Team!

Gain EXPERTISE in: • • • • • •

Camera Operation Technical Direction Announcing Sideline Reporting Graphics / Replay Editing

Put NCAA Division I sports broadcast experience on your RESUMÉ!

Sports We Broadcast:

NO EXPERIENCE NECESSARY!

• • • • • •

Baseball Men’s & Women’s Soccer Men’s & Women’s Volleyball Softball Lacrosse Wrestling

SPORTS

Email sportsdesk@masoncablenetwork.com Use Subject Line: “Sports Broadcasting”

BEST

of

MASON

Presenting the “Best” as voted by students who took part in Student Media’s 2019 online survey.

THINGS TO DO I N D.C.

Photo by Mimi Albano

PLACES TO STUDY Fenwick Library: Calm, clean, and comfortable, the newly renovated library is an incredible place to study and the overwhelming favorite in our survey. It’s open on most days until midnight so you can cram as much as you please.

Johnson Center: The top two floors (3 & 4) of the Johnson Center offer comfy, movable chairs, individual study cubicles, and long tables with accessible power outlets for group studying.

RUNNERS-UP: • The Ridge • Mason Pond • Northern Neck Starbucks

Monuments: Between the Jefferson, Lincoln, and MLK Memorials, the Washington Monument, and the many war memorials, simply walking around downtown Washington, D.C. can make for a fun day of historic sightseeing. When lit up at night, the monuments manage to look even more impressive.

Clubbing: Whether it is dancing the night away at Ultrabar and the Living Room, checking out the scene on U Street, or exploring neighborhoods like Adams Morgan or Dupont Circle, the best way to make a night memorable is to take advantage of D.C.’s lively clubs and restaurants.

RUNNERS-UP: • Live Music • Restaurants • Smithsonian

Fair Oaks Mall & Fair Lakes: Home to many shops, stores, and restaurants, these shopping centers are accessible via the Gunston Go-Bus (free for any student with a Mason ID).

On Metro’s Silver Line!

Photos by Mimi Albano

PLACES TO HAVE FUN ON CAMPUS Corner Pocket: A place where the Mason community can gather to relax and have fun, Corner Pocket offers a dozen different games and activities including foosball, billiards, air hockey, corn hole, and arcade games. All games are free or under $5!

RUNNERS-UP: • JC • Campus Events • Athletic Games

38 | Freshman Focus

PLACES TO SHOP

Tyson’s Corner: Tyson’s is a great place to visit if your family is in town or if you’re scrambling to find last-minute holiday gifts.

Dorm Rooms: Dorms are a cozy (and affordable) hangout; you can listen to music, eat snacks, and invite your friends over to relax in your own space.

Photo courtesy of Creative Services/Alexis Glenn

Photo by Mimi Albano

RUNNERS-UP: • University Mall • Target/WalMart/Giant • Springfield Mall PLACES TO TAKE A DATE • Sister’s Thai • De Clieu Coffee Shop • Brion’s Grille • Fair Lakes/Fair Oaks Mall • Old Town Fairfax • Mosaic District • D.C. Monuments/Museums

PLACES TO EAT ON CAMPUS

PLACES TO EXERCISE

#1 - The Globe (Global Center) #2 - M anhattan Pizza (Merten Hall)

Aquatic and Fitness Center: For students living in President’s Park, the AFC makes it easy to stay in shape.

#3 - Chick-fil-A (SUB I) #4 - Chipotle ( JC) #5 - Southside RUNNERS-UP: • • • • • •

laze Pizza ( JC) B Garbanzo ( JC) Panda Express (Merten Hall) Ike’s (President’s Park) IndAroma ( JC) Panera ( JC)

PLACES TO EAT OFF CAMPUS

Photo courtesy of Creative Services

PLACES TO WORK ON CAMPUS Student Media: studentmedia.gmu.edu “Dedicated to providing hands-on, experiential learning opportunities for students who aspire to a career in media production or journalism.”

New Student & Family Programs: ofps.gmu.edu “Whether it be as a Patriot Leader, a Student Coordinator, or even a Front Desk Assistant, the fun and loving environment is surely enjoyable.”

#1 - Sister’s Thai (Old Town Fairfax)

Fenwick Library: library.gmu.edu “Available student assistant positions are posted on and filled through HireMason. If positions are not listed on HireMason, no positions are available.”

#2 - Halal Guys (Univ. Mall)

RUNNERS-UP:

#3 - Taco Bamba (Univ. Mall) #4 - Tropical Smoothie Cafe (Univ. Mall) #5 - Noodles & Company (Main Street)

• • • •

JC (Student Centers): studentcenters.gmu.edu Student Involvement: si.gmu.edu Admissions: www2.gmu.edu/admissions-aid Bookstore: gmu.bncollege.com

RUNNERS-UP: •C heesecake Factory (Fair Oaks Mall) • Chuy’s Tex-Mex (Lee Hwy) • Elevation Burger (Turnpike Shopping Mall) • Brion’s Grille (University Mall)

Photo courtesy of Creative Services

PLACES TO SEE LIV E MUSIC • EagleBank Arena (www.eaglebankarena.com) • Jammin’ Java (www.jamminjava.com) • Center for the Arts (cfa.gmu.edu)

• Epicure Cafe (www.epicurecafe.org) • 9:30 Club (www.930.com) Photo courtesy of Creative Services/Evan Cantwell

• Wolf Trap (www.wolftrap.org)

The RAC: The Recreation and Athletic Complex offers more than just a place to exercise.

Invite others over to have a game of basketball, volleyball, racquetball, or squash!

Skyline: Not only does it

feature a climbing wall, but it is open until midnight most days!

Photo courtesy of Creative Services/Craig Bisacre

CLUBS OR ORGS TO JOIN AS A FRESHMAN Greek Life: Mason boasts over 40 Greek letter organizations with a diverse population of over 1,800 students. si.gmu.edu/greek-life Student Media: The home of over 10 unique student-run media groups including Mason’s newspaper, radio station, and TV station. studentmedia.gmu.edu Green Machine: Doc Nix leads an award-winning pep band. greenmachine.gmu.edu RUNNERS-UP: • College Democrats • College Republicans • Cultural Organizations

Summer /Fall 2019 | 39

NAVIGATING

FAIRFAX PARKING TIPS (parking.gmu.edu) ▶ Leave plenty of time to park and walk to class (especially during the first few weeks). ▶ At all times every car parked on campus needs a parking or visitors pass. Parking lots are enforced year-round, including the first week of classes and even when classes are not in session. ▶ There is free parallel parking off Roberts Road across from Potomac residence hall. ▶ When friends or family visit they can purchase a temporary permit online. Halfprice weekend validations for Shenandoah and Mason Pond Decks may be purchased at least two business days in advance.

RIDING THE BUS The Mason Shuttle Service, CUE Bus, and Mason to Metro Shuttle are all free with your Mason ID and offer access to endless attractions around Mason. They can all seem a little intimidating at first, but a month in and you will be a pro!

Visit mason.ridesystems.net to see when the next shuttle is arriving. These buses go to University Mall, Fair Lakes Center, Fair Oaks Mall, Fairfax Corner, Old Town Fairfax, Science and Technology Campus, and the Vienna Metro. So get out there and explore because the Fairfax community and Washington, D. C. metro area have a lot to offer.

▶ The George Mason University Rideshare Facebook page is one of the easiest ways to find rides going out of town. ▶ Mason has special reserved spaces and discounted passes for students car pooling. ▶ Tuesdays and Thursdays (including the evenings) are the busiest days on campus.

RIDING THE METRO While it isn’t free, it’s still a great way to get around downtown Washington, D.C. Take the Mason Shuttle or drive to the Vienna/Fairfax station. Be sure to purchase a reloadable SmartTrip card for easy riding. There is a charge to park at the aboveground Metro stations during the week, but parking is free on weekends and federal holidays.

Reprinted from Freshman Focus 2018

40 | Freshman Focus

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36. Zandra's Taqueria 37. Bollywood Bistro 38. Ornery Beer Company

Old Town Plaza

26. Coyote Grille 27. King Kabob 28. Main Street Bagel Deli 29. Noodles & Company 30. Paisano's Pizza

FINISH

23. Safeway 24. Tandoori Nights 25. Tokyo Grill

11. Havabite Eatery 12. High Side 13. Natalie's Baguette 14. Red Hot & Blue 15. Sisters Thai 16. Smash'd Creamery 17. The Old Fire Station #3 18. Victoria's Cakery, Inc. 19. Woody's Ice Cream

UPDATED May 22, 2019

39. Pampa Sa-zone Latin Cuisine 40. Potbelly 41. The Wine House

31. Qdoba 32. Smoothie King 33. Starbucks 34. Subway 35. Sushi Prince

Main Street Marketplace

20. Chubby Squirrel Brewing 21. Jersey Mike's Subs 22. Pizza Hut

Courthouse Plaza

1. 21 Great American Bistro 2. Auld Shebeen 3. Bellisimo 4. Caribbean Corner 5. Commonwealth Dry Goods 6. Courtside Thai 7. De Clieu Coffee & Sandwiches 8. Eerkin’s Uyghur Cuisine 9. Eastwind Vietnamese Restaurant and Noodle House 10. Hamrock’s Restaurant

Downtown

Less than one mile from George Mason University!

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All CUE buses are wheel-chair accessible. Specialized transportation services for individuals who are unable to use the CUE Bus because of a disability are provided by CITY WHEELS (703-385-7859; TTY 711) and METRO ACCESS (301-562-5360; TTY 301-588-7535).

For more information, visit our website at www.cuebus.org.

Service for Persons with Disabilities

FREE for all Mason students, faculty and staff presenting a proper Mason ID. $1.75 for non-Mason students and affiliates.

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Find out where you are and where you need to go. Stay connected with the MOBILE MASON app.

Visit gettheapp.gmu.edu

Shorten your CUE Bus wait time by using NextBus for real-time arrival info.

Download for free on IOS or Android or visit www.NextBus.com

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You also call at 703-993-2710 email parking@gmu.edu.

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Parking and Transportation * transportation.gmu.edu * transpo@gmu.edu * 703.993.2828 Parking and Transportation * transportation.gmu.edu transpo@gmu.edu * 703.993.2828 Parking and Transportation * transportation.gmu.edu * transpo@gmu.edu * 703.993.2828 Parking and Transportation * transportation.gmu.edu **transpo@gmu.edu * 703.993.2828 Fairfax-SciTech Shuttle Fall 2019-Spring 2020 Campus Fall2019-Spring 2019-Spring 2020 Fall 2020

RIDESHARE RIDESHARE SHARERIDESHARE

The SciTech Campus shuttle runs seven days a week between the Fairfax and

Parking 101 – Some Tips to Help Get You Sta

SciTech campuses. On Mon-Thu, the shuttle runs every thirty minutes during most uttle schedules and to learn CARPOOL ZONES in ZONES Lot A and Rappahannock Parking Deck, Level  Parking fill up fast.toAllow extra time, especially the first few weeks of class to f CARPOOL in Lot A and Rappahannock Parking Deck, Level Parking 101 – lots Some Tips Help Get You Started Parking 101 –– Some Tips to Help Get You Started of the day.

FriLevel hours reduced.

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(from SciTech - Colgan) on east campus will often fill. Also, don’t forget that general lot permits are valid on –Š‡ Â?‘”Â?‹Â?‰ ’ƒ”Â? ‹Â? „ƒ…Â? ‘ˆ ‘– ÇĄ ‘– ‘” ƒ– –Š‡ ‹‡Ž† ‘—•‡ǥ ƒ ͳ͡ Â?‹Â?—–‡ ™ƒŽÂ? –‘ –Š‡ Â?‘”Â?‹Â?‰ ’ƒ”Â? ‹Â? „ƒ…Â? ‘ˆ ‘– ÇĄ ‘– ‘” ƒ– –Š‡ ‹‡Ž† ‘—•‡ǥ ƒ ͳ͡ Â?‹Â?—–‡ ™ƒŽÂ? –‘ Â? –Š‡ „—•‹‡•– ‘ˆ Â†ÂƒÂ›Â•ÇĄ ‹– ‹• ”‡…‘Â?Â?‡Â?†‡† –Šƒ– –Š‘•‡ ƒ””‹˜‹Â?‰ –‘ …ƒÂ?’—• Žƒ–‡” ‹Â? – 11:55pm Monday –Friday –Š‡ ‘ŠÂ?•‘Â? ‡Â?–‡”ǥ ĥ –Š‡ Ž‘–• ‘Â? ‡ƒ•– …ƒÂ?’—• ™‹ŽŽ ‘ˆ–‡Â? ˆ‹ŽŽǤ Ž•‘ǥ don’t ˆ‘”‰‡– –Šƒ– –Š‡ ‘ŠÂ?•‘Â? ‡Â?–‡”ǥ ĥ –Š‡ Ž‘–• ‘Â? ‡ƒ•– …ƒÂ?’—• ™‹ŽŽ ‘ˆ–‡Â? ˆ‹ŽŽǤ Ž•‘ǥ don’t ˆ‘”‰‡– –Šƒ– of–Š‡ Â?‘”Â?‹Â?‰ ’ƒ”Â? ‹Â? „ƒ…Â? ‘ˆ ‘– ÇĄ ‘– ‘” ƒ– –Š‡ ‹‡Ž† ‘—•‡ǥ ƒ ͳ͡ Â?‹Â?—–‡ ™ƒŽÂ? –‘ Rappahannock River Parking Deck (but not in the visitor area). ‰‡Â?‡”ƒŽ Ž‘– ’‡”Â?‹–• ƒ”‡ ˜ƒŽ‹† ‘Â? ‡˜‡Ž• 1â€?2 ‘ˆ ƒ’’ƒŠƒÂ?Â?‘…Â? ‹˜‡” ƒ”Â?‹Â?‰ ‡…Â? ‰‡Â?‡”ƒŽ Ž‘– ’‡”Â?‹–• ƒ”‡ ˜ƒŽ‹† ‘Â? ‡˜‡Ž• 1â€?2 ‘ˆ ƒ’’ƒŠƒÂ?Â?‘…Â? ‹˜‡” ƒ”Â?‹Â?‰ ‡…Â?

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The service will with email your Mason email and at zimride.com/mason.

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Schedule (from Fairfax-Sandy Creek) e 6:25am –free 11:10pm Monday-Friday ď‚ˇÂƒÂ†Â?‹Â?‹•–”ƒ–‹˜‡ •’ƒ…‡•Ǥ Ž™ƒ›• ”‡ƒ† –Š‡ •‹‰Â?• –‘ Â?Â?‘™ ‹ˆ ƒ Ž‘– ‘” ƒ”‡ƒ ‹• ”‡•–”‹…–‡† –‘ ƒ …‡”–ƒ‹Â? –›’‡ ‘ˆ ĠÂ?‹Â?‹•–”ƒ–‹˜‡ •’ƒ…‡•Ǥ ar? Need awith ride?

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Don’t believe the myths and airfax Campus and Vienna Metro station, or day.

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PATRIOT LIFTvehicles ThebyGunston Go-Bus Mason route picks upMason at Sandy Creek shuttle stop and River PATRIOT LIFT  Visitor parking is available Pond, Shenandoah, and Rappahannock ”—Â?‘”• ƒ„‘—– ƒ ‰”ƒ…‡ ’‡”‹‘†Ǥ in credit.

Gas and insurance are included in & the rental rate.

Mason has four Zipcar on campus which can beservices rented the hour or …ƒÂ?’—•ǥ ‡˜‡Â? ™Š‡Â? …Žƒ••‡• ƒ”‡ Â?‘– ‹Â? •‡••‹‘Â?Ǥ …ƒÂ?’—•ǥ ‡˜‡Â? ™Š‡Â? …Žƒ••‡• ƒ”‡ Â?‘– ‹Â? •‡••‹‘Â?Ǥ e,ar?and Fairfax Circle Lee Highway Circle Patriot Lift provides limited campus transportation services to Mason students, faculty, Patriot(at Lift provides limited campus transportation to Mason students, faculty, Decks  Š‡…Â? –Š‡ ’ƒ”Â?‹Â?‰ ™‡„•‹–‡ parking.gmu.edu ˆ‘” –Š‡ Žƒ–‡•– ‹Â?ˆ‘”Â?ƒ–‹‘Â? as well as metered lots, including $3/day at the Field House. provides service from Fairfax Campus to Fair Lakes Center, Whole Foods (Market  ‹•‹–‘” ’ƒ”Â?‹Â?‰ ‹• ƒ˜ƒ‹Žƒ„Ž‡ ‹Â? ƒ•‘Â? ‘Â?†ǥ Š‡Â?ƒÂ?Â†Â‘ÂƒÂŠÇĄ ƒÂ?† ƒ’’ƒŠƒÂ?Â?‘…Â? ‹•‹–‘” ’ƒ”Â?‹Â?‰ ‹• ƒ˜ƒ‹Žƒ„Ž‡ ‹Â? ƒ•‘Â? ‘Â?†ǥ Š‡Â?ƒÂ?Â†Â‘ÂƒÂŠÇĄ ƒÂ?† ƒ’’ƒŠƒÂ?Â?‘…Â? n up at zipcar.com/zipgmu, new members will receive $35 in free driving credit.

Gas and staff who need assistance around campus.

To learn more, visit please visit staff whoTownhouses. needgetting assistance getting around campus.

Toplease learn more, ncludes ahttps://transportation.gmu.edu/patriot-lift/ stop atand Mason ”‡‰ƒ”†‹Â?‰ Š‘—”• ‘ˆ ‡Â?ˆ‘”…‡Â?‡Â?– ƒÂ?† ‘–Š‡” ‹Â?’‘”–ƒÂ?– Â?થ ƒˆˆ‡…–‹Â?‰ ’ƒ”Â?‹Â?‰ ‘Â? ‹˜‡” ƒ”Â?‹Â?‰ ‡…Â?• ĥ ™‡ŽŽ ĥ Â?‡–‡”‡† Ž‘–•ǥ ‹Â?…Ž—†‹Â?‰ Í„ÍśČ€Â†ÂƒÂ› ƒ– –Š‡ ‹‡Ž† ‘—•‡ ‹˜‡” ƒ”Â?‹Â?‰ ‡…Â?• ĥ ™‡ŽŽ ĥ Â?‡–‡”‡† Ž‘–•ǥ ‹Â?…Ž—†‹Â?‰ Í„ÍśČ€Â†ÂƒÂ› ƒ– –Š‡ ‹‡Ž† ‘—•‡ Oaks Pay attention to your Mason email as students are Road often emailed about temporary Commons Dr), Fair Mall, Fairfax Corner, Ridge Top and the RAC. rance are included in https://transportation.gmu.edu/patriot-lift/ theLIFT rental rate.

PATRIOT ƒÂ?† Í„Í´Č€Â†ÂƒÂ› ƒ– ‡•– ƒÂ?’—• Ž‘– ȋ‘Â?Ž‹Â?‡ ’‡”Â?‹– ‘Â?ÂŽÂ›ČŒÇ¤ …ƒÂ?’—•ǥ ‡˜‡Â? ™Š‡Â? …Žƒ••‡• ƒ”‡ Â?‘– ‹Â? •‡••‹‘Â?Ǥ ƒÂ?† Í„Í´Č€Â†ÂƒÂ› ƒ– ‡•– ƒÂ?’—• Ž‘– ȋ‘Â?Ž‹Â?‡ ’‡”Â?‹– ‘Â?ÂŽÂ›ČŒÇ¤ or day. Sign up at zipcar.com/zipgmu, new members will receive $35 in free driving

Patriot Lift provides limited campus transportation services to Mason students, faculty, closures. Also, check building.gmu.edu for updates on events and construction.  ƒ› ƒ––‡Â?–‹‘Â? –‘ ›‘—” ƒ•‘Â? ‡Â?ƒ‹Ž ĥ •–—†‡Â?–• ƒ”‡ ‘ˆ–‡Â? ‡Â?ƒ‹Ž‡† ƒ„‘—– ƒ› ƒ––‡Â?–‹‘Â? –‘ ›‘—” ƒ•‘Â? ‡Â?ƒ‹Ž ĥ •–—†‡Â?–• ƒ”‡ ‘ˆ–‡Â? ‡Â?ƒ‹Ž‡† ƒ„‘—–  ‹•‹–‘” ’ƒ”Â?‹Â?‰ ‹• ƒ˜ƒ‹Žƒ„Ž‡ ‹Â? ƒ•‘Â? ‘Â?†ǥ Š‡Â?ƒÂ?Â†Â‘ÂƒÂŠÇĄ ƒÂ?† ƒ’’ƒŠƒÂ?Â?‘…Â?

BIKE PROGRAMS Schedule: BIKE and staff who needPROGRAMS assistance getting around campus. To learn more, please visit

 Information about permit sales and online citation appeals and payment options is –‡Â?’‘”ƒ”› Ž‘– …Ž‘•—”‡•Ǥ Ž•‘ǥ …Š‡…Â? „—‹Ž†‹Â?‰Ǥ‰Â?—Ǥ‡†— ˆ‘” —’†ƒ–‡• ‘Â? ‡˜‡Â?–• ƒÂ?† –‡Â?’‘”ƒ”› Ž‘– …Ž‘•—”‡•Ǥ Ž•‘ǥ …Š‡…Â? „—‹Ž†‹Â?‰Ǥ‰Â?—Ǥ‡†— ˆ‘” —’†ƒ–‡• ‘Â? ‡˜‡Â?–• ƒÂ?† ‹˜‡” ƒ”Â?‹Â?‰ ‡…Â?• ĥ ™‡ŽŽ ĥ Â?‡–‡”‡† Ž‘–•ǥ ‹Â?…Ž—†‹Â?‰ Í„ÍśČ€Â†ÂƒÂ› ƒ– –Š‡ ‹‡Ž† ‘—•‡ Mason has over 1300 bike parking spotsparking on campus, pumps, bike fix- pumps, fixPROGRAMS Mason has over 1300 bike spots bike on campus, https://transportation.gmu.edu/patriot-lift/ 6:15am– 11:20pm Monday – Friday online. …‘Â?•–”—…–‹‘Â?Ǥ …‘Â?•–”—…–‹‘Â?Ǥ it stations, and is a “Bicycle Universityâ€?. find out more it stations, and Friendly is a “Bicycle FriendlyTo Universityâ€?.

To find out more ƒÂ?† Í„Í´Č€Â†ÂƒÂ› ƒ– ‡•– ƒÂ?’—• Ž‘– ȋ‘Â?Ž‹Â?‡ ’‡”Â?‹– ‘Â?ÂŽÂ›ČŒÇ¤

as over 1300 bike parking spotsand on campus, fix-it stations  Â?ˆ‘”Â?ƒ–‹‘Â? ƒ„‘—– ’‡”Â?‹– Â•ÂƒÂŽÂ‡Â•ÇĄ ‘Â?Ž‹Â?‡ …‹–ƒ–‹‘Â? ÂƒÂ’Â’Â‡ÂƒÂŽÂ•ÇĄ ƒÂ?† ’ƒ›Â?‡Â?– ‘’–‹‘Â?• ‹•  Â?ˆ‘”Â?ƒ–‹‘Â? ƒ„‘—– ’‡”Â?‹– Â•ÂƒÂŽÂ‡Â•ÇĄ ‘Â?Ž‹Â?‡ …‹–ƒ–‹‘Â? ÂƒÂ’Â’Â‡ÂƒÂŽÂ•ÇĄ ƒÂ?† ’ƒ›Â?‡Â?– ‘’–‹‘Â?• ‹• about bicycling to campus to see a and mapbike all pumps, facilities, contact Parking Services if you have questions or concerns! We’re located i about bicycling to campus toofsee a map of please all facilities, please First departure from Always Creek at 7:05am Sandy ƒ› ƒ––‡Â?–‹‘Â? –‘ ›‘—” ƒ•‘Â? ‡Â?ƒ‹Ž ĥ •–—†‡Â?–• ƒ”‡ ‘ˆ–‡Â? ‡Â?ƒ‹Ž‡† ƒ„‘—– ƒ˜ƒ‹Žƒ„Ž‡ ‘Â?Ž‹Â?‡Ǥ ƒ˜ƒ‹Žƒ„Ž‡ ‘Â?Ž‹Â?‡Ǥ visit bike.gmu.edu. “Bicycle Friendly Universityâ€?.

To find out more about bicycling BIKE PROGRAMS visit bike.gmu.edu.

Parking Services building next to the Shenandoah Parking Deck.

Last departure from Sandy Creek 10:05pm –‡Â?’‘”ƒ”› Ž‘– …Ž‘•—”‡•Ǥ Ž•‘ǥ …Š‡…Â? „—‹Ž†‹Â?‰Ǥ‰Â?—Ǥ‡†— ˆ‘” —’†ƒ–‡• ‘Â? ‡˜‡Â?–• ƒÂ?†  Always contact Parking Services ifat you have questions orquestions concerns!or We’re  Always contact Parking Services if you have concerns! We’re Mason has over 1300 bike parking spots on campus, bike pumps, fixus and to see a map of all facilities, please visit bike.gmu.edu.

Bicycle Registration Bicycle Registration You can also call us at 703-993-2710 or email us at parking@gmu.edu. itRegister stations, is a at “Bicycle Friendly University�.

To find out more yourand bicycle bike.gmu.edu and receive aand free U-lock, Register your bicycle at bike.gmu.edu receive a free U-lock,

…‘�•–”—…–‹‘�Ǥ Ž‘…ƒ–‡† ‹� –Š‡ ƒ”�‹�‰ ‡”˜‹…‡• „—‹Ž†‹�‰ �‡š– –‘ –Š‡ ƒ�†› ”‡‡� ”ƒ�•‹– ‡�–‡”Ǥ Ž‘…ƒ–‡† ‹� –Š‡ ƒ”�‹�‰ ‡”˜‹…‡• „—‹Ž†‹�‰ �‡š– –‘ –Š‡ ƒ�†› ”‡‡� ”ƒ�•‹– ‡�–‡”Ǥ

Visit shuttle.gmu.edu for updated shuttle schedules and to learn

SciTech campuses.

Mon-Thu,On theMon-Thu, shuttle runs during most during most SciTechOn campuses. the every shuttlethirty runsminutes every thirty minutes Ž‘…ƒ–‡† ‹� –Š‡ ƒ”�‹�‰ ‡”˜‹…‡• „—‹Ž†‹�‰ �‡š– –‘ –Š‡ ƒ�†› ”‡‡� ”ƒ�•‹– ‡�–‡”Ǥ of the day.The Friofhours reduced.

Shuttle also stops atalso Manassas between the day.

Fri Campus hours reduced.

Shuttle stops Manassas between SciTech shuttle runs seven days a week between the Fairfax You can also call us at 703-993-2710 oratMall email us atMall parking@gmu.edu. campuses. Free parkingFree at Manassas campuses. parking atMall.

Manassas Mall.

4:15pm – 11:20pm Saturday –callSunday You can also callcan us at 703-993-2710 or email us or at parking@gmu.edu. You

Â?ˆ‘”Â?ƒ–‹‘Â? ƒ„‘—– ’‡”Â?‹– Â•ÂƒÂŽÂ‡Â•ÇĄ ‘Â?Ž‹Â?‡ …‹–ƒ–‹‘Â? ÂƒÂ’Â’Â‡ÂƒÂŽÂ•ÇĄ ƒÂ?† ’ƒ›Â?‡Â?– ‘’–‹‘Â?• ‹• also us at 703-993-2710 email us at parking@gmu.edu.

Registration about bicycling toand campus and see a map of all facilities, please registration sticker, more. registration sticker, andtomore. ƒ˜ƒ‹Žƒ„Ž‡ ‘�Ž‹�‡Ǥ First departure from Sandy Creek at 5:05pm your bicyclevisit at bike.gmu.edu. bike.gmu.edu and receive a free U-lock, registration Fairfax-SciTech Campus Fairfax-SciTechShuttle Campus Shuttle Always contact Parking Services if you have questions or concerns!

Thefrom SciTechSandy Campus shuttle runs seven days week between the Fairfax and nd coupons to RAC, bikeRegistration shops.

The SciTech Campus shuttle runsaseven days a week between the Fairfax and We’re Last departure Creek at 10:05pm SHUTTLES & RAIL & RAIL River Ln SHUTTLES Bicycle Center, the Rappahannock

SciTech Campus Shuttle (formerly Prince William Campus)

Visit shuttle.gmu.edu for updated shuttle schedules and to learn Register your bicycle at bike.gmu.edu and receive a free U-lock, erce, Fairfax (at Lee Highway & Circle more Circle about more transportation options which save you money about options which save and you money and registration sticker, andtransportation more.

help RAIL lower CO2 TTLES & helpemissions. lower CO2 emissions.

and S

Gunston’s Go-Bus: George Route campuses.

On Mon-Thu, the shuttle runs every thirty minutes during the day. The

Fairfax-SciTech Campus Shuttle (from SciTech Colgan) Schedule (from SciTech - Colgan) also stops at -Manassas Mall.runs Theshuttle.

Gunston Schedule Go-Bus George route picks up seven at Sandy Creek shuttle stopand and ttle.gmu.edu for updated& shuttle schedules and to learn more about green The SciTech Campus shuttle days a week between the Fairfax 5:55am – 11:55pm Monday –Friday 5:55am – 11:55pm Monday –Friday SHUTTLES RAIL Download the RLS app or visit mason.ridesystems.net to track your Download the RLS app or visit mason.ridesystems.net to track your shuttle.

9:00am – 7:00pm Saturday – Sunday ation options which save you money and at help lower CO2 emissions.

SciTech On Mon-Thu, the shuttle Mall, runs every thirty minutes during most 9:00am – campuses.

7:00pm Saturday – to Sunday provides service from Fairfax Campus University Ridge Top Rd, Fairfax Schedules are available atfor shuttle.gmu.edu.

Shuttle schedules are below Schedules are available shuttle.gmu.edu.

Shuttle schedules are Schedule Visit shuttle.gmu.edu updated shuttle schedules andbelow to learn of the day. Fri hours reduced. Shuttle also stops at Manassas Mall between

subjectabout to change. subject to change.options which save you moneyCorner, Fair Oaks and Fair Lakes more transportation and 6:55am – 10:15pm Monday – FridayMall.

ScheduleMall, (from Fairfax-Sandy Creek) Schedule (from Fairfax-Sandy Creek) campuses.

Free parking atCenter.

Manassas

ad which can also be found on the Mobile Mason app or go6:25am to – 8:00am 11:10pm 6:25amMonday-Friday help lowerapp CO2 emissions. y the RideSystems –– 11:10pm 7:00pmMonday-Friday Saturday – Sunday 8:00am – 6:00pm Saturday-Sunday 8:00am – 6:00pm idesystems.net to Creek getSandy real information on Mason Shuttles.Schedule: Sandy to time Metro Shuttle Schedule (fromSaturday-Sunday SciTech - Colgan) Creek to Metro Shuttle

The shuttle runs Sandy Creekmason.ridesystems.net TransitCreek Center and Rappahannock River Ln shuttle.

5:55am – 11:55pm Monday –Friday The shuttle runs between Sandy Transit Center and Rappahannock River Ln Gunston’s Go-Bus Download thebetween RLS app or visit to track your Gunston’s Go-Bus: Mason Route 3:00 pm – 11:00pm Monday –Go-Bus: Friday Gunston’s Mason Route (outgoing)/Finley Lot (incoming) the FairfaxonCampus andCampus Vienna Metro station, (outgoing)/Finley Loton(incoming) the Fairfax and Vienna Metro station, 9:00am –Mason 7:00pm Saturday – Sunday Gunston Go-Bus route picks picks up at Sandy shuttle stop and Schedules are at shuttle.gmu.edu.

Shuttle schedules below are &The The Gunston’s Go-Bus up atCreek Creek shuttle stop The Gunston Go-Bus Mason route picks upSandy at Sandy Creek shuttle stop and and provides servic including stops at available Masonvale, Commerce, and Fairfax Circle (at Lee Highway & Circle including stops at Masonvale, Commerce, and Fairfax Circle (at Lee Highway Circle First departure from Sandy Creek at 3:05pm Metrosubject Shuttle provides service from service Fairfax Campus to Fair LakestoCenter, Whole FoodsWhole (Market provides from Fairfax Campus Fair Center, FoodsOaks (Market to change.

Fairfax campus University Mall, FairLakes Lakes Center, Fair Mall, Ridge Top Woods Drive).

Weekend schedule onlyschedule includesonly a stop at Mason Townhouses.

Woods Drive).

Weekend includes a stop at Mason Townhouses.

Schedule (fromtoFairfax-Sandy Creek)

EE to GARAGE PARKING Dr), Fair Oaks Mall, Corner, Ridge Top Road and theRoad RAC.and the RAC. Commons Dr), FairFairfax Oaks Mall, Fairfax Corner, Ridge Top Last departure fromFairfax Sandy Creek 10:25pm tle runs between Fairfax Campus and Viennastop Metroon station. weekend, theCommons station VRE train and Finley shuttle the On the Corner, andat Old Town Fairfax. – 11:10pm Monday-Friday Schedule (from Sandy Creek) Schedule (from Sandy Creek) Schedule: 6:25am Schedule: so stops at 6:00am Mason– 11:30pm Townhouses (at Chain Bridge Road & West St.) and Fairfax Circle 8:00am –11:20pm 6:00pm Saturday-Sunday Monday – Thursday 6:00am – 11:30pm Monday Thursday 6:15am– 11:20pm Monday Friday ek and Masonvale (outgoing) and –at Target, Sandy Creek to Metro Shuttle 6:15am– Monday – Friday 3:00pm - 10:00pm Saturday - –Sunday Schedule Highway & Circle Drive).

6:00amWoods – 1:00am Friday 6:00am – 1:00amSandy Friday Creek Transit Center and Rappahannock RiverFirst from Sandy Creek at 7:05am First departure from Sandy Creek at 7:05am The shuttle runs between Ln departure d Masonvale (incoming).

The shuttle only runs 8:00am – 12:40am Saturday 8:00am – 12:40am Saturday Lastfrom departure from Sandy Creek atat 10:05pm Gunston’s Go-Bus: Mason Route First departure Sandy Creek 3:05pm Last departure from Sandy Creek at 10:05pm Mason Route (outgoing)/Finley Lot (incoming) on the Fairfax Campus and Vienna Metro station, e 9:40pm Sunday 8:00am – 9:40pm Sunday The Gunston Go-Bus Mason route picks up at Sandy Creek shuttle stop and – 6:40am 11:20pm Saturday – Sunday 4:15pm Saturday – Sunday ays only).8:00am Free– garage parking is available atCircleLast –– 11:20pm 9:45pm Monday – Friday from Sandy Creek at 9:05pm including stops at Masonvale, Commerce, and Fairfax (at Leedeparture Highway & 4:15pm Circle – 11:00pm Monday – Thursday provides service from Fairfax Campus to Fair Lakes Center, Whole Foods (Market First departure from Sandy Creek at 5:05pm

First departure from Sandy Creek at 5:05pm Global Center toWeekend Metro Shuttle Global Center to Metro Shuttle Woods Drive). schedule only includes a stop at Mason Townhouses. Last departure 3:00pm – 9:45pm Sunday from Sandy Creek atSaturday 10:05pm Commons Dr), Fair Oaks Mall,at–Fairfax Corner, Ridge Top Road and the RAC. Last departure from Sandy Creek 10:05pm shuttle runs Mason Global Center, the RAC, Rappahannock River Ln – 12:00am The Friday The between shuttle runs between Mason Global Center, the RAC, Rappahannock River Ln (outgoing)/Finley Lot (incoming), Commerce, Fairfax Circle (at Lee Highway & Circle Schedule (from Sandy Creek) (outgoing)/Finley Lot (incoming), Commerce, Fairfax Circle (at Lee Highway & Circle – 12:00am Saturday Metro Rail Schedule: George Route Gunston’s Go-Bus: George Route Gunston’s Go-Bus: George Route Woods Drive) and Vienna Metro.

Woods Drive) and Vienna Metro.

6:00am – 11:30pm Monday – Thursday 6:15am– 11:20pm Monday –atFriday – 11:00pm Sunday The Gunston Go-Bus George route picks up Creek shuttleCreek stop and 3:00pm –Fairfax 9:00pm Monday –Sandy Sunday The Gunston Go-Bus George picks upMetro at Sandy shuttle stopthe and Orange The closest Metro stop in is the route Vienna station on

Line.

First departure fromFairfax Sandy Creek to at 7:05am provides service from Fairfax Campus to University Mall, Ridge Top Fairfax provides service from Campus University Mall,Rd, Ridge Top Rd, Fairfax Corner,also Fair Last Oaks Mall, Fair Lakes departure from Sandy Creek 10:05pm Corner, Fairand Oaks Mall, andCenter.

Fair Lakesat Center.

The Orange Line goes to various locations in Washington, DC and connects 8:00am – 9:40pm Sunday Rail Schedule:Metro Schedule: 4:15pm – 11:20pm Saturday – Sunday tle runs between Rappahannock River Ln, Fairfax Circle (at Lee to Hwy & Circle No weekend service. the SilverWoods Line that serves Reston, Tysons Corner, and East Falls Church. To No weekend service.

11:00pm Monday –from Friday 3:00 pm – 11:00pm Monday closest Metro stop in– Friday Fairfax Vienna Metro station on the Orange Line. Th First departure Sandy Creek atis5:05pm GlobalCheck Centershuttle.gmu.edu to Metro Shuttle for changes related to MetroSafe repairs.3:00 pm –The nd Vienna Metro.

First departure from Sandy Creek atSandy 3:05pm First departure from Sandy Creek at 3:05pm Burke Centre VRE Express – FREE GARAGE PARKING Burke Centre VRE Express – FREE GARAGE PARKING visit the Arlington campus, take the Orange Line to Virginia Square-GMU. Last departure from Creek at 10:05pm Line also goes to various locations in Washington, DC. To visit the Arlington cam The shuttle runs between Mason Global Center, the RAC, Rappahannock River Last Ln from Sandy Creek at 10:25pm Last departure from Sandy Creek at 10:25pm ay-Friday The shuttle runs Burke CentreBurke VRE train station Finley shuttle stop on the stop ondeparture The between shuttle runs between Centre VRE and train station and Finley shuttle e (outgoing)/Finley Lot (incoming), Commerce, Fairfax Circle (atand Leeat Highway & Circle the the Orange Line to Virginia Sq-GMU Metro station.

Fairfax Campus with stops at Sandy Creek and Masonvale (outgoing) Target, Fairfax Campus with stops at Sandy Creek and Masonvale (outgoing) and at Target, 3:00pm - 10:00pm Saturday - Sunday 3:00pm - 10:00pm Saturday -subject Sunday Route Gunston’s Go-Bus: George Woods Drive) and Vienna Metro.

Important Note: Metro schedules areCreek to change. Sign up for Metro alerts – 10:35pm Monday –on Thursday Metro Rail Map: wmata.com/rail/maps/map. three stops Zion Dr, Sandy Creek and Masonvale shuttle only three stops on Zion Dr, Sandy Creek and(incoming).

MasonvaleThe (incoming).

Theruns shuttle only Firstruns departure from Sandy Creek at 3:05pm First departure from Sandy 3:05pm The Gunston Go-Bus George at route picks up at Sandy Creek shuttle stop and when the VRE trainthe is in service (weekdays Free garage parking is available when VRE train is in serviceonly). (weekdays only). Free garage parking at is available at Last departure from Sandy Creek at 9:05pm Service onSchedule Friday Last departure from Sandy Creek at 9:05pmto University Mall, Ridge Top Rd, Fairfax (from Global Center) at www.wmata.com/rider-guide/stations/vienna.cfm. provides service from Fairfax Campus the train station. the trainRd, station.

NEW Silver Line Rail mpus, Rapidan Field House, the 7:10am – River 10:10pm Monday – Thursday Fair Oaks Mall,on and Metro Fair Lakes Center.

Metrowmata.com/schedules/maps.

Rail Corner, Metro Rail Metro Rail Map: Centre Park, VRE Express –(from FREE Schedule (from Burke VRE) The Silver Line is a new metroRail line in Northern Virginia and connects Reston 7:40am-9:40am & 2:40pm-7:40pm Friday & PARKING Schedule BurkeGARAGE VRE) sidents Masonvale (Patriot Circle The closest Metro stop in Fairfax is the Vienna Metro station on the Orange Line.

6:00am 1:00am Friday Schedule–(from Global Center) Schedule (from Global Center) ay-Friday 8:00am ––10:10pm – Thursday 7:10amMonday –Saturday 10:10pm Monday – Thursday 12:40am Express 7:10am 7:40am-9:40am & 2:40pm-7:40pm Friday 7:40am-9:40am & 2:40pm-7:40pm Friday

The closest Metro stop in Fairfax is the Vienna Metro station on the Orange Line.

Schedule: 7:10am-8:10pm (plus a 10:35pm) Monday-Friday 7:10am-8:10pm (plus a 10:35pm) No weekend service. tle runs between Burke Centre VRE train stationMonday-Friday and Sandy Creek shuttle stop onThe theOrange Corner, and other stops the Falls Church stop on the Orange Line.

Line also goes to also various locations inEast Washington, DC and connects The Orange Line goes totovarious locations in Washington, DC and connects 3:00 pm – 11:00pm Monday – Friday e, and returns byonly theruns RAC, Field House, to the Silver Line serves Tysons Corner, East Falls Church.

To Church. To Campus.

TheSchedule shuttle when the VRE train is in service.

Free garage parking to thethat Silver LineReston, that serves Reston, Tysons Corner, and East Falls First departure from Sandy Creek atand 3:05pm (from Finley at Mason) Burke Centre VRE Express – FREE GARAGE PARKING Schedule (from Finley at Mason) CUE Bus visit the Arlington campus, takecampus, the Orange Line to Virginia Square-GMU. CUE Bus visit the Arlington takeCreek the Orange Line to Virginia Square-GMU. epartures every 15 minutes (with extra service ble at the train station.

Last departure from Sandy at 10:25pm 7:30am-7:50pm (plus a 10:15pm) Monday-Friday 7:30am-7:50pm (plus a 10:15pm) Monday-Friday The shuttle runs between Burke Centre VRE train station and Finley shuttle stop on the All CityandofatFairfax Buses areare FREE with ID. The CUE Bus up o All City of schedules Fairfax CUE Buses are Mason FREE Mason ID. The CUEpicks Bus picks u ImportantCUE Note: Metro subject toare change.

Sign up with for Metro alerts Important Note: Metro schedules subject to change.

Sign up for Metro alerts demic year.

Does not run in summer.

Fairfax Campus with stops at Sandy Creek and Masonvale (outgoing) Target, 3:00pm 10:00pm Saturday Sunday West Campus WestShuttle Campus Shuttle e at runs www.wmata.com/rider-guide/stations/vienna.cfm. at www.wmata.com/rider-guide/stations/vienna.cfm.

Fairfax campus at Rappahannock River Lane and can you toyou various places Fairfax campus from at Rappahannock River Lane take and can take to various places three stopsroute on Zion Dr, Sandy Creek and Masonvale (incoming).

The shuttle only First departure Sandy Creek at 3:05pm The shuttle runs between West Campus, Rapidan River Rd, Field House, the The shuttle route runs between West Campus, Rapidan River Rd, Field House, the Metro Rail Map: wmata.com/schedules/maps.

Metro Rail Map: wmata.com/schedules/maps. – 10:45am Monday –RAC, Friday when the VRE train is in service (weekdays only).

Free garage parking is available at Fairfax RAC, Mason Pond Dr/Patriot Circle, Presidents Masonvale (Patriot Circle(Patriot &City Last departure from Sandy Mason Pond Dr/Patriot Circle,Park, Presidents Park, Masonvale Circle & all with all routes at9:05pm the Vienna Metro Station:cuebus.org. cuebus.org.

Fairfax with routes winding upwinding atCreek theupat Vienna Metro Station: – 7:50pm Monday –Staffordshire), Friday Staffordshire), Rappahannock River Lane, and returns thereturns RAC, by Field Rappahannock River Lane,by and theHouse, RAC, Field House, the train station.

CUE Bus Rapidan River Lane, to West Campus.

Departures 15 minutes extra service Rapidan River Lane, to West Campus.every Departures every(with 15 minutes (with extra service

CUE Bus

Metro Rail

All City of Fairfax CUE Buses are with ID. The CUEID. BusThe picks upBus on picks up on All City of Fairfax CUEFREE Buses areMason FREE with Mason CUE Schedule Burkeduring VRE) @MasonShuttles from 7-11am(from and 3-7pm) the academic year.

Does not runDoes in summer. from 7-11am and 3-7pm) during the academic year. not run in summer.

Campus Shuttle The Metro stop Fairfax is Vienna station on Orange Fairfax campus atclosest Rappahannock RiverinLane and canthe take youcan to Metro various places in the Fairfax campus at Rappahannock River Lane and take you to various places in Line.

7:10am-8:10pm (plus a 10:35pm) Monday-Friday Schedule (from West Campus) Fairfax City with all routes winding up at the Vienna Metro Station: cuebus.org.

Schedule (from WestHouse, Campus)Rappahannock River Lane, Presidents Fairfax City with all routes winding up at thelocations Vienna Metro Station: cuebus.org.

The Orange Line also goes to various in Washington, DC and connects tle runs between West Campus, Field @Mason Parking DÄ‚Ć?ŽŜ WÄ‚ĆŒĹŹĹ?ĹśĹ? Θ dĆŒÄ‚ĹśĆ?Ć‰Ĺ˝ĆŒĆšÄ‚ĆšĹ?ŽŜ 7:00am – 11:45pm 7:00amMon-Fri – 11:45pm Mon-Fri

d Sandy Creek.

Departures everyat15 minutes.

Schedule Finley Mason) No Service (from on Saturday No Service on Saturday

@MasonShuttles

to the Silver Line that serves Reston, Tysons Corner, and East Falls Church. To @MasonShuttles @MasonShuttles

visit Parking the@Mason Arlington campus, take the Orange Line to Virginia Square-GMU. @Mason DÄ‚Ć?ŽŜ WÄ‚ĆŒĹŹĹ?ĹśĹ? Θ dĆŒÄ‚ĹśĆ?Ć‰Ĺ˝ĆŒĆšÄ‚ĆšĹ?ŽŜ Parking DÄ‚Ć?ŽŜ WÄ‚ĆŒĹŹĹ?ĹśĹ? Θ dĆŒÄ‚ĹśĆ?Ć‰Ĺ˝ĆŒĆšÄ‚ĆšĹ?ŽŜ 2:00pm – 11:30pm Sunday 7:30am-7:50pm (plus a 10:15pm) 2:00pm – 11:30pm SundayMonday-Friday @MasonParking Parking & Transp Mason DĂLJ ĎŽĎŹĎ­Ďľ e Important Note: Metro schedules are subject to change.

Sign up for Metro alerts

DĂLJ ώϏϭϾ

DĂLJ ώϏϭϾ – 12:00am Monday – FridayShuttle West Campus at www.wmata.com/rider-guide/stations/vienna.cfm.

The shuttle route runs between West Campus, Rapidan River Rd, Field House, the ce on Saturday Metro Rail Map: wmata.com/schedules/maps.

RAC, Mason Pond Dr/Patriot Circle, Presidents Park, Masonvale (Patriot Circle & @MasonParking Summer /Fall 2019 | 43 – 12:00am Sunday /MasonParkingTransportation

transportation.gmu.edu

Staffordshire), Rappahannock River Lane, and returns by the RAC, Field House, @MasonShuttles CUE Bus Rapidan River Lane, to West Campus. Departures every 15 minutes (with extra service

NOW ACCEPTING: ART | POETRY | PROSE | & MORE!

Submit YOUR original work:

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Two-Time Region 2 Chapter of the Year!

GUEST SPEAKERS • FIELD TRIPS • WORKSHOPS & MORE!

MEETINGS: TUESDAYS @ 5PM HUB 1012

Love Your Stuff?

Keep it Secure!

Between 2011 and 2016, valuables totaling more than $1.1 million were stolen from Mason.

85 percent of reported thefts at Mason are preventable.

Never leave valuables unattended or unsecured for any length of time.

Report all suspicious activity to Mason Police at 703-993-2810.

studentmedia.gmu.edu

Follow Mason Police on Facebook at /gmupolice.

grab these

STUDENT

DEALS All Mason students have free access to CashCourse.org, an online tool designed to help you make informed financial choices through video tutorials, budget calculators, and more. Just log in with your Mason email address and start taking control of your financial future!

F

LOCAL DISCOUNTS

or many incoming students, college is the first time

they are out on their own. For some this means paying

their own bills, buying their own food, or even paying for their

tuition. No matter what your situation is, there are many ways for students to save some money on their purchases while at Mason.

Many local stores and restaurants offer

a student discount (with valid ID) even if they are not explicitly advertised, so it doesn’t hurt to ask! There are

also a number of businesses in Fairfax that accept Mason Money and offer discounts. Here is a partial list:

SUBSCRIPTIONS

SHOPPING

All Mason students are eligible for a

Fairfax Corner has an entire website

• Auld Shebeen: ½ price Fries, Chicken Tenders, Quesadillas, & Soft Pretzels

Times and on-campus students receive

dedicated to discounts that cover yoga

• Cinema Arts Theatres: $10 every day (only $6.50 on College Tuesdays!)

stores at Fair Oaks Mall also offer

• Chuy’s Tex-Mex: Free queso & chips

free online subscription to The New York access to HBO GO. You can also

download the entire Microsoft Office 365 suite with your MasonLive email

address. Lynda.com’s library of online

training modules is also free for Mason faculty and students (visit lynda.gmu. edu to explore available topics).

(www.fairfaxcorner.com/sales-offers)

classes, movie tickets, and more! Many student discounts, so make sure to

bring your student ID next time you shop at the following stores: • Express (15%) • J. Crew (15%)

• Forever 21 (15%) • H&M (15%)

• Coyote Grille: 10% off • Dante Salon & Wellness Spa: 15% off • Hair Xpressions: 20% off • Sun & Moon Yoga: $6 off drop-ins • PJ Skidoos: 20% off • Qdoba: 10% off with drink purchase

MUSIC

MOVIES

Students that have proof of college

The Student Involvement office in

for discounted monthly membership

movie tickets to students with a valid

• Zaytoon Pizzeria: 10% off

the academic year). University Mall

• Washington Nationals: Get discounted tickets using code “GMU”

campus (on Braddock Rd. across from

Find more student deals online:

or university enrollment are eligible to streaming services like Spotify

(first 3 month is 99¢; includes a free

Showtime subscription!). It is easy to sign up and all you need is a Mason email address.

The Hub (Room 2300) offers free

Mason ID (1 ticket per week during Theatres is just a short walk from the EagleBank Arena).

• University Mall Giant Food: 5% off • University Mall Theatres: $4 tickets

sg.gmu.edu/deals Summer /Fall 2019 | 45

RadioFlag

Follow us to win tickets & more!

Listen LIVE via our RadioFlag App

MU S I C | SPORTS | N EWS | TAL K | IN T ER VIEWS

ON AIR 24/7

WGMURadio.com

Mason’s bilingual graduate literary journal

Vol. XXV | 2018-2019 Available Now!

HCR.GMU.EDU

immunization record forms

health care for the student body

Immunization Records Deadline: First day of classes for the semester

FREE to be seen by a healthcare provider

All newly admitted or newly re-admitted students must submit the Immunization Record Form Upload to the secure patient portal, mail or dropoff records to the Immunization Office Contact Information:

Immunization Office SUB 1, Room 2347 & 2348 703-993-2135 shs.gmu.edu/immunizations

Clinics at Fairfax, Arlington and Science and Technology campuses Evening and Saturday hours Services Include: • Treatment of illness & injury

• Immunizations

• General health counseling

• Allergy Clinic

• Sports Physicals

• And more...

• Women’s Health Care • Nutrition Counseling

(703) 993-2831 • shs.gmu.edu

first of their

NAME

2018 data shows that 36% of Mason’s undergraduate students are considered first-generation.

EDUARDO FAJARDO

AVNI SINGH

Staff Writer

COMM 145 Student Reporter

Today, and all days continuing, I can truthfully say that I am proud to be Latinx. I am proud to be a first-generation college student; and, I am proud to be at George Mason University, where I am able to be reaffirmed in my identity. Thankfully, being at a four-year institution has kept my mother sleeping comfortably at night, feeling as though her prayers and hard work have finally been answered.

ousing and Residence Life offers a Living Learning Community (LLC) called The First dedicated to first-generation students. The First is considered a mixed LLC with both upper-level students and freshmen living together to create a community of individuals with similar backgrounds. Mason freshman Sofia Velasquez was the first in her family to attend college in the United States and lived in Mason’s first-generation LLC: “One of my favorite parts about being in the LLC is the unique connections that I am able to make with other first generation students. We went through the real college experience together: taking classes without the supervision of our mentors, remembering to eat, trying to balance our social and academic lives, and keeping our mental health in check.

Through The First LLC I was able to talk about my college struggles with other people and not feel ashamed because they completely understood.

We were experiencing the same struggles.”

Summer /Fall 2019 | 47

Photo courtesy of Sofia Velasquez

I can remember listening to my mother pray every night, asking God to watch over my siblings and me in the new land. She asked for Him to not only make sure that my family remained healthy, but that we are successful in our journeys. It is her unmatched selflessness that powered me through the linguistic barriers set before me. When moments of self-doubt and frustration came, it stemmed from a lack of cultural acceptance and American assimilation. However, being able to stand tall and proud at Mason is an incredible feat to the stereotypes placed on to me. I excelled in the fields of mathematics and science growing up; however, I came to George Mason as double major in Music Education (BM) and Flute Performance (BM). I have managed to work my way onto the Dean’s List with a 3.92 GPA. I have worked hard to diminish the stereotypes wrongfully set upon me for being a first-generation American, as well as a first generation college student.

H Photo courtesy of Eduardo Fajardo

I

n all honesty, I have never fully understood the importance I have held within my family being a first-generation American and first-generation college student until recently. Coming from a low-class, single-parent household of five, I have been burdened with the task of making my ancestors’ struggles worth something.

Though incredibly daunting, it is my ancestors’ cries for a better life for their kin that has pushed me to reach for new heights in my family’s name.

SEEK

and

DISCOVER BROOKE LEWITAS Staff Writer

B

efore I left my home of Long Island, NY for freshman year at Mason, I wondered if I would find an organization where I would feel at home.

I’ve been effective; I am able to make people feel welcomed and comfortable.

form and others fall in love with the organization that I hold so dearly is such a rewarding aspect of this job.

As a young chapter we only had a few returning members, so this year’s general body of 20+ members includes many freshmen who are new to the organization. Recently, my co-coordinator and I planned and executed a staff retreat that functioned as a weekend for training and group bonding. Seeing friendships

Another amazing aspect of this job is my responsibility of curating the atmosphere of the chapter. At the staff retreat, members were encouraged to share what made them join this community. I was touched to hear that many of them cited the vibe and energy of our meetings as their reason for joining. To me, that means that

48 | Freshman Focus

Photo courtesy of Brooke Lewitas

When I went to my first Camp Kesem interest meeting, I felt that sense of being “home.” Camp Kesem is a national organization with chapters at over 100 universities across the country that provides free summer camp to children affected by a parent’s cancer. This past year’s directors were also our chapter’s founders and former campers. When they told us that there were positions on their coordinator board still available, I knew I wanted to get involved as much as possible. I applied and signed myself up for an interview. Thankfully, I was given the job of volunteer coordinator which includes recruiting, interviewing, hiring, training, and managing our counselors.

“LISTEN TO THE VOICE THAT BELIEVES IN YOUR OWN ABILITIES, AND THEN SURROUND YOURSELF WITH PEOPLE WHO DO.”

When I first got the volunteer coordinator position, I wasn’t sure I could handle it despite holding some leadership positions in high school.

Could I train students to do a job I hadn’t done yet? Could I run a general body meeting? I didn’t think I had the confidence to talk to strangers in the JC and encourage them to apply to be a counselor. I didn’t think I had the interpersonal skills to form the connections necessary to get people passionate about Camp Kesem. But now, with all of the new counselors selected, trained, and excited for camp, I can look back say with pride that we (my co-coordinator, Karl Ziegler, and I) pulled it all off.

Luckily, that small voice in my head that told me to “go for it!” won out; and thanks to the help of my cocoordinators and directors, I was able to accomplish everything that was asked of me and more.

To any freshman wondering if they should get involved on campus, I encourage you to listen to that little voice that believes in your abilities and surround yourself with people who do.

he change you want to see‌.

Anthropology B.A. soan.gmu.edu

Be the change you want to see‌.

...in a changing ...in aworld. changing world.

te Director: Dr. Haagen Klaus (hklaus@gmu.edu); Hoepf (khoepf@gmu.edu)

Undergraduate Director: Dr. Haagen Klaus Undergraduate Director: Dr. Haagen Klaus (hklaus@gmu.edu); Advisor: Katy Hoepf (khoepf@gmu.edu) Advisor: Katy Hoepf (khoepf@gmu.edu)

(hklaus@gmu.edu);

Mason Cru

Mason Cru is a diverse community of unique people who care a lot about knowing and loving Jesus. We'd love to have you come check out our weekly meeting, where you can nd out more about our upcoming social events and Bible studies. Whether you're just looking to make new friends or want a place to truly belong during your college years, know that we're here, and that we care about you!

Every Thursday @ 8PM : See our website or social media for locations!

MasonCru.com Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook: MasonCru

PLAY - b y -

PLAY

JOIN THE TEAM! Join the Sports Broadcasting Team to gain hands-on experience, build your resume or reel, and meet new people!

Learn more by emailing sportsdesk@ masoncablenetwork.com.

ZACH HAMILTON Contributor

F

When researching colleges, my main priority was finding a place where I could continue my broadcasting career. I toured many schools that have prestigious broadcasting and athletic programs, but many of them felt like high-stakes businesses without much opportunity to learn on the job.

From the first time, I reached out to Mason’s Student Media office, I felt that the sports broadcasting program was special. Led by David Carroll, the program began in 2013 and has grown exponentially. I feel that a big part of the success is the community atmosphere created by the members of the team. At a university that has been built on diversity and inclusion, the sports broadcasting program 50 | Freshman Focus

for broadcasts. Whether you are a sports addict, a casual sports fan, or not even interested in sports, there is role for you on this team. That is what separates this team from other programs at Mason.

Photo by Rafael Suanes

rom the time I began my freshman year of high school, I knew what I wanted to do with my life. Being a sports junkie, who’s playing career had come to an end, I desperately needed a way to stay involved in sports. I fell in love with sports broadcasting that year and did it for all four years of high school. Along the way, I called over 400 hours of high school sports for the NFHS Network and knew that I had found my calling in life.

“THE SPORTS BROADCASTING PROGRAM HAS MEMBERS FROM EVERY BACKGROUND AND A VARIETY OF MAJORS.” reflects that with members from every background and a variety of majors.

Those different backgrounds and experiences are what make the quality of the broadcasts so high in my opinion. For example, having members who more interested in the film and movie side of broadcasting creates more creative shots and better camera work

Professionals in the industry say that the most important factor companies consider when hiring is versatility.

Which is why the sports broadcasting program is so valuable — you get to learn as many positions as you want. Over the last the two years I learned to be an on-air commentator, camera operator, technical director, and graphics operator. Acquiring these diverse skills helped me land internships with the Charlottesville Tom Sox and NBC Sports Washington.

Not only have I learned more about the industry that I one day hope to have a career in, I also have improved my skills as a broadcaster. The staff that oversees the team is beyond knowledgeable about the industry and the latest technology.

I am honored to become a part of that leadership team this coming fall as a Graduate Assistant for the program! The experience is more than just knowledge with the sports broadcasting team; it is a community and family that has been a highlight in my Mason career.

Watch sports highlights and more: youtube.com/MasonCableNetwork/videos

FACES o f

MASON MONICA ECHOLS

and

IMANI HOLLOMAN

Fourth Estate Reporters

M

ason’s official student-run newspaper, Fourth Estate, publishes a regular feature called “Faces of Mason” that showcases interviews with students, faculty, and alumni. Alexandra Kostovski, current student and granddaughter of former Mason president George W. Johnson, was featured on February 11, 2019:

Q A

What is an important career goal for you to reach?

I am currently studying Global Affairs, with a concentration in Inequality and Responses. Growing up in D.C., I saw people from all over the world speaking different languages which inspired me to connect with people from different cultures.

My goal is to implement change for human rights through the government or a nonprofit. I would like to be involved in the making of policies to represent groups that are often marginalized in society and the law.

Q

What are your most memorable moments at Mason?

• Originally named the University Learning Center.

Photo courtesy of Fourth Estate/Allie Thompson

Q A

What are you studying during your time at Mason?

JC QUICK FACTS

A

My most memorable moments have been the times I shared with people who have changed my life. Freshman year, I moved into Presidents Park, nervous to be living with a stranger. That stranger would become one of the best people I’ve had the pleasure of knowing. I’ll never forget those late nights at Ike’s that turned into early mornings. I also discovered my passion at Mason in a Women and Gender Studies course where I fell in love with advocating for human rights.

Q A

What do you like to do for fun in your free time?

I love to participate in social movements that promote equality

• Completed in 1995 with over eight acres of floor space.

•R enamed in honor of retiring president George W. Johnson on April 12, 1996. Wendy Ross’ Mason statue by was unveiled during the same ceremony.

READ MORE MASON HISTORY:

ahistoryofmason.gmu.edu for marginalized groups including women, people of color, immigrants, and more. Concerts are another way I love to spend time with friends. When the lights turn off and the crowd becomes one, what a time to be alive.

Q A

What is your special connection to/with Mason?

The Johnson Center, also known as the JC, was named after one of my grandfathers. George Johnson was the President of Mason from 1978 to 1996 and devoted his entire life to academics with his wife, Joanne. When he passed away last year, I was comforted every time I read his name on the signs outside.

Read more Faces of Mason interviews: gmufourthestate.com/tag/faces-of-mason

Summer /Fall 2019 | 51

MY TIME @

MASON

Seniors take a look back at their Mason careers.

ANGELIQUE ARINTOK Alumni, Class of 2019

N

I majored in Communication with a concentration in Media Production & Criticism and minored in Political Communication for my time as a Patriot. I immersed myself into classes, which delved into topics like intercultural communication, rhetoric, media production, media management and more. Not to mention, I had the awesome opportunities of studying abroad with the Department of Communication for winter break programs in Paris and London.

So, that’s already two shockwaves which came from my time at Mason: opportunities for studying abroad and graduating early! Not to say these are paths that necessarily warrant success for every incoming student, but it was what made the most sense 52 | Freshman Focus

“YOUR TIME AT COLLEGE WILL FLY BY FAST, SO SEIZE ANY OPPORTUNITY YOU HAVE IN FRONT OF YOU... DON’T FORGET: CARPE DIEM!” for me. When recapping my three years at Mason, my involvement and leadership within Student Media comes first to mind.

In the summer before my freshman year, I got hired as an Assistant Production Manager at the on-campus television station called Mason Cable Network (MCN). Having known someone who was previously involved with MCN, I made it a point to get my feet wet in the media field, even if it meant at a collegiate level. From then on, it was honestly history.

Mason Cable Network and Student Media opened so many doors for me,

Photos courtesy of Angelique Arintok

ever in my wildest dreams did I think I’d be part of Class of 2019. I was on track to graduate in May 2020 after graduating high school in 2016. Early on, probably in my second year at Mason, I accelerated my studies to graduate a year early. My education means a lot to me, but surprisingly, so did my hunger for jumping into a career in broadcast journalism after graduation.

FREE TICKETS FOR MASON STUDENTS Center for the Arts and the Hylton Performing Arts Center offers FREE STUDENT TICKETS to more than 100 PERFORMANCES each year.

Full-time Mason students are eligible to get free tickets for music, dance, opera, theater and more.

CFA.GMU.EDU/STUDENTS

HYLTONCENTER.ORG/STUDENTS

Center for the Arts, Fairfax Campus

Hylton Performing Arts Center, Science and Technology Campus

in both professional and personal matters. I got to help students craft their very own TV shows, meet lots of great people from a wide variety of majors, lead election coverage for the 2018 Midterms, go to a journalism conference on behalf of Mason’s Society of Professional Journalists (SPJ) and much more.

Your time at college will fly by fast, so seize any opportunity you have in front of you! For me, it was mostly opportunities with Student Media (leading MCN and SPJ) as well as writing for the studentrun newspaper Fourth Estate and deejaying for WGMU Radio. Take your interests, whether it’d be based on your major or interests, and look at what organizations can help you thrive in those arenas.

If you’re reading this Freshman Focus magazine, you’ve already got a leg up above the rest regardless if you’re a freshman or upperclassman. I know when I read this magazine as an upperclassman, it still helped me out tremendously. What you’ll quickly notice about this magazine and Mason is how much your experience will blossom based on relationships you build with the people on this campus.

I can thank a countless number of professors and administrators for believing in my skills and encouraging my pathway to success. But, I can also take away some great friendships and strong bonds with my peers and fellow students. Plus, I’ve also built a great friendship with our amazing Starship food delivery robots. Congratulations on this incredible achievement of attending Mason, don’t forget: carpe diem!

CIRQUE MEI Saturday, October 19 at 2 p.m and 8 p.m.

STUDENT MEDIA • Home to over 10 unique student-run media groups including Mason’s official newspaper, radio, and television news outlets.

• Offers 1-credit co-curricular courses in media production.

• Scholarship, volunteer, for-credit, and work-study opportunities are available.

•F ill out an online application: c2ms.info/osmapply.

LEARN MORE:

studentmedia.gmu.edu

Summer /Fall 2019 | 53

MY TIME @

MASON

An interview with 2018-2019 Student Body Vice President Erik Truong.

INTERVIEW BY ELIJAH Z. NICHOLS Editor-in-Chief

E

Erik interviewing President Cabrera with Spin Room co-host Alexis Whitted in WGMU’s JC studio.

Q

What was the most influential part of being at Mason in terms of your involvement on campus?

A

Going to college 3,000 miles away from home has really given me an opportunity to remake myself in the way that I really wanted to be. Some of the leadership roles that have helped me to reshape myself include the Vice Presidency of Mason’s Student Government, cofounder and host of Student Media’s political podcast “The Spin Room,” as well as some amazing internship opportunities here at Mason. The most influential time was definitely while campaigning — being able to see the incredible students and the diversity at Mason was phenomenal.

54 | Freshman Focus

Photos courtesy of Erik Truong

rik Truong, a quiet and reserved out-of-state student from Oregon, was not particularly involved in high school.

However, when he decided to move nearly 3,000 miles away from home, he knew that he was going to have to push himself out of his own comfort zone.

The following is an interview with Erik Truong, a senior in the Schar School of Policy and Government (and 2019 student Commencement speaker):

Q A

How have you balanced extracurriculars with academics?

In all honesty, you don’t necessarily know your limits until you’ve reached them. That’s been my college experience: you take on a lot of things and then you drop a few things. At the end of the day, you have to prioritize yourself in college. You shouldn’t feel bad about dropping these things because your mental health is diminishing, like mine was, and that’s how I got to where I am today.

Q A

What’s next for you after graduation?

I’m going to George Washington University for a

master’s in political management.

Soon, I will be working as the Digital Assistant for the Democratic Legislative Campaign Committee, where I will be working to get progressive Democrats elected at the state level. I’m excited to explore a new part of my life outside of college.

Q A

What advice do you have for incoming freshmen?

College is going to be a different experience. You need to address that change by being proactive in your own life, and not just staying in your bed to watch Netflix.

I think this is a really great time to explore yourself — to find what you really want in life.

MY TIME @ MASON r e f l e c t i o n s f r o m t h e c l a s s o f 2019

“Traveling 3,000 miles away from home, I was ready to remake myself and make my mark on the Mason community. My Mason experience, balancing between different organizations like Student Government and Mason Cable News, was unforgettable. I’m eager to see what the new class accomplishes on and off this University. Get involved and you won’t regret it.”

ZACH HAMILTON Communication

ERIK TRUONG Government & Int’l Politics

AYLEAH HANTON Marketing

“One of my favorite experiences at Mason was serving as Editor-in-Chief of The George Mason Review. The skills, relationships, and experiences I had were invaluable. I wish I had known about this opportunity sooner.

Whether you want to get published or become a peer reviewer, GMR is a great stepping stone to life after college.”

ASHLEY ROMULUS BACOT History

SARA KYLE JORDAN M.A., Foreign Languages

“The best way to make the most of your time at Mason is to get out, to take leaps of faith, and to surround yourself with what makes you happy.

Developing myself professionally and academically according to my personal interests is what helped make my Mason experience memorable.”

“Mason has allowed me to gain knowledge not only in the classroom, but through hands-on opportunities like the Student Media’s Sports Broadcasting Program. Calling games for ESPN+ is a game changer when it comes to your resume!”

CODY BORDEN Communication

CHRISTOPHER CAMPOS-PEREZ Communication

“The woman leaving Mason is much different then the one who came in just 4 years ago. Mason has given me so much and I hope that anyone who enters this institution gets everything they want out of this experience and more.”

“Teaching Spanish to undergraduates, working on the editorial team for Hispanic Culture Review, and exploring the human existence through my studies with my awesome colleagues and professors has made my time at Mason unforgettable!”

“We came to school for a reason but we all have a bigger purpose in life after we graduate. It doesn’t matter where you come from, how old you are, or how long it takes.”

Summer /Fall 2019 | 55

(Won’T YoU)

BE MY NEIGHBOR?

Photo by Kira Walls

All freshman students live on campus. Here are a few things you should know:

TRADITIONAL VS. SUITE The biggest difference between traditional and suite style is that traditional housing has shared community restrooms. Suites consist of two rooms with a bathroom in the middle.

PRESIDENTS PARK Presidents Park is a traditional-style freshman housing area located in the Shenandoah Neighborhood. In the center of the complex is Eisenhower Hall, which supports the community with a study lounge, TV lounge with vending machines for snacks, 24-hour service desk, and professional staff offices.

THE COMMONS The Commons is a traditional-style freshman housing area located in the center of campus. The Commons are part of the Rappahannock Neighborhood. Hanover Hall is the central community building featuring a study lounge, TV lounge, classroom spaces, common kitchen area, vending area, and professional staff offices.

COMMONWEALTH & DOMINION Commonwealth and Dominion both house students in suite-style double-occupancy rooms, located in the Rappahannock Neighborhood. Both buildings include a reception area, lounge, vending and laundry facilities.

Photos courtesy of Creative Services

WHAT TO BRING

AND WHAT TO LEAVE

PERSONAL FAN

WINTER GEAR

LAUNDRY BASKET

While all residence halls have both heating and A.C., most freshman halls operate on a two-pipe system, which means when Mason turns on the heat, the heat stays on until spring. Bring a personal fan to make your room more comfortable and ease any temperature disagreements with your roommate.

Winter can strike as early as October and NOVA weather is known to be unpredictable. While you probably don’t need your entire winter wardrobe in August, bring a coat, some gloves, and a hat so you can fend off the cold if necessary. Then you can make the rest of your seasonal swap around Thanksgiving to maximize closet space.

The best way to keep your space as open and fresh as possible is to have an easily accessible laundry basket to contain all your dirty clothes until laundry day. Keep your space beautiful and your roommates happy!

DISH SOAP & SPONGE While the dining halls take care of the clean-up there, when you are craving a hot pocket or some ramen late night in your room you are bound to dirty a few dishes. Rather than have them rot on your desk or the floor and gross out your roommate, take out your handy dish soap and sponge and give everything a quick rinse in the bathroom sink or community kitchen. Your roommates (and your immune system) will thank you!

Reprinted from Freshman Focus 2018

ACRONYMS TO KNOW Resident Assistants (RA)

Resident Student Association (RSA)

Student staff that live in the halls and serve as the main contact for students living on campus.

Resident Directors (RD)

RSA is an advocate for on-campus student needs. They address problems, concerns, and questions you might have, and they represent the collective interests of oncampus students.

Professional staff members living on campus to answer questions, furnish information on helpful resources, and provide stability and guidance.

They meet every Wednesday at 5:00 pm in the Piedmont Multipurpose Room and is open to all residential students.

POSTERS & PHOTOS An empty room can feel a lot like an asylum. Make the space your own with pictures of your friends and family or hang up posters of your favorite movies. Tapestries are also a good option, but make sure you talk to your RA first.

ALSO BRING: • Sealed unit coffee maker (e.g. Keurig) • Microwave (700 watts max)

• UL-Approved Surge Protectors

• Mini Fridge (3.3 cu ft. maximum or 4.3 cu ft Energy Star Certified)

PROHIBITED ITEMS: • Incense, Candles, Oil Lamps • Traditional Plug-in Air Fresheners • Black Lights, Spider Lamps • Extension Cords • Appliances not listed here • Vaporizers and E-Cigarettes • Hoverboards Summer /Fall 2019 | 57

Dining Meal plans are available for on and off campus students, enabling you to save money while dining on campus. Current meal plan options can be viewed online at mealplans.gmu.edu.

Sustainability, the Presidents Park Greenhouse grows lettuce and herbs for Ike’s dining hall and is open for tours and volunteer hours. Locally sourced foods are served

Access your meal plan with your Mason ID. In resident dining halls, meal plan holders can also gain access without their Mason ID by registering for the Iris identity verification system at the Card Office.

View the menus for Southside, Ike’s, and the Globe by downloading the Bite by Sodexo App and entering access code u8sn3. Within the App, menu items will display allergens and nutritional content and allow you to give feedback about your dining experience.

Mason Dining caters to customers with food allergies and other special dietary needs. The Simple Servings program at Southside Dining hall provides prepared and customizable hot entrees, as well as daily soup and side vegetable options, all free of soy, milk, wheat, fish, shellfish, eggs, tree nuts, and peanuts.

Mason’s Registered Dietitian, Veronica Hayes offers complimentary meetings with students to discuss food allergies, special dietary needs, and general healthy eating tips. To contact Mary or schedule your appointment today, call 703.933.2870.

Order delivery via robot using your meal plan and the Starship Deliveries App! Mason Dining hires students - work on-campus, flexible schedules, competitive pay, and a free meal after 6 hours worked. Find open positions at indeed.com by searching for “Sodexo” in Fairfax, VA.

Sick meals are available for campus residents who become ill. They can be picked up at resident dining halls by sick student or a friend or RA. Sick meal request form can be completed at dining.gmu.edu Sustainability efforts are a focus for the Mason Dining program. In partnership with the Office of

@Mason_Dining

dining.gmu.edu

FAQs FAQs

Dining Dining

Q: What are Bonus Funds?

A: Bonus Funds are tax exempt, dollar for dollar, funds attached to Q: What are Bonus Funds? your meal plan for use at all retail dining locations on attached campus. to A: Bonus Funds are tax exempt, dollar for dollar, funds

your meal plan for use at all retail dining locations on campus.

Q: How much bonus should I add to my Independence Plan?

A: $300 of bonus is suggested for a first semester student. You may Q: How much bonus should I add to my Independence Plan? also add up to $500 of bonus to your Independence Plan at any A: $300 bonusthe is suggested pointofduring semester. for a first semester student. You may also add up to $500 of bonus to your Independence Plan at any point the semester.

Q:during What does “anytime” really mean?

A: Anytime! We have 24 hour dining services during the semester Q: What does “anytime” reallythroughout mean? and 365 day dining service the entire year. Students on A: Anytime!

We have 24 hour dining the anytime dining plan may swipeservices into theduring dining the hallssemester as many andtimes 365 day service throughout the entire year. Students on perdining day as needed. the anytime dining plan may swipe into the dining halls as many times day astoneeded.

Q: per I’m going be living off campus—do I have a meal plan option?

A: Yes! We suggest Freedom or Patriot Plans for off campus students.

Email masonid@gmu.edu to sign up aformeal one plan today!

Q: I’m going to be living off campus—do I have option?

A: Yes! We suggest Freedom or Patriot Plans for off campus Q: Does my meal plan roll over? to sign up for one today! students.

Email masonid@gmu.edu A: Bonus Funds, Freedom Plans, and Patriot Plans all roll over from Fall tomy Spring Meal Plans and Bonus Funds do not roll Q: Does mealsemester. plan roll over? over from Spring or Summer to Plans the Fall A: Bonus Funds, Freedom Plans,semesters and Patriot allsemester. roll over from Fall to Spring semester. Meal Plans and Bonus Funds do not roll I have a food dietaryto need, where can I eat on overQ:from Spring orallergy/special Summer semesters the Fall semester. campus?

A: Mason Dining has a registered dietitian on campus whom can Q: I have a food allergy/special dietary need, where can I eat on meet with you for free to help outline the best way for you to navicampus? gate dining on campus. Email her at Mary.Brown@sodexo.com to A: Mason has a registered set up Dining an appointment today. dietitian on campus whom can meet with you for free to help outline the best way for you to navigateQ:dining on campus.can Email her at Mary.Brown@sodexo.com to The robots—how I order from them?! set up an appointment today.

A: Simply download the Starship Deliveries app in the App Store to begin ordering delivery on campus! Bonus: The Robots accept Q: The robots—how can I you order from them?!

Bonus Funds, meaning can save money and times when A: Simply download the Starship Deliveries app in the App Store to ordering from Starship Deliveries! begin ordering delivery on campus! Bonus: The Robots accept Bonus Funds, meaning you can save money and times when ordering from Starship Deliveries!

happy

BIRTHDAY,

GEORGE! E

ach December, Student Media hosts Happy Birthday, George!, a fun and educational event held to honor our university namesake’s legacy and ideas and de-stress with friends and faculty before the start of fall finals. Mason’s birthday bash includes raffle prizes, live music, cake, guest speakers, and more.

GEORGE MASON December 11, 1725 – October 7, 1792 Known to history as the “Father of the Bill of Rights,” George Mason was an American Patriot and is considered one of the founding fathers of the United States of America.

Mason drafted the Virginia Declaration of Rights that was later used as a model for the first ten amendments to the U.S. Constitution, known today as the Bill of Rights. As an advocate for individual liberty, one of Mason’s most important contributions was that of the freedom of speech.

George Mason, who famously refused to sign the U.S. Constitution because it lacked strong protections for specific individual freedoms, served in Virginia’s House of Burgesses and was a neighbor of George Washington (Mason’s Gunston Hall is located just a few miles down the Potomac River from Washington’s Mount Vernon). Among his many contributions to American democracy is the drafting of the Virginia Declaration of Rights that later served as a template for the U.S. Constitution’s first ten amendments. George’s unwavering commitment to personal liberty earned him the nickname “Father of the Bill of Rights,” and helped secure the “five freedoms” guaranteed to all Americans under the First Amendment (religion, speech, press, assembly, and redress of grievances).

Those very freedoms that George Mason fought for so passionately are critical to the work of Student Media today — most notably the freedom of speech and of the press. As the home of Mason’s official student newspaper, radio station, television network, magazines, and literary journals, Student Media invites all Mason students, faculty, and staff to celebrate these now-inalienable rights with us at Happy Birthday, George! We hope you’ll join us in 2019 as George turns 294!  Visit studentmedia.gmu.edu to learn more about getting involved.

“The fact is unquestionable, that the Bill of Rights, and the Constitution of Virginia, were drawn originally by George Mason, one of our greatest men, and of the first order of greatness.”

— Thomas Jefferson April 3, 1825 Photos courtesy of Student Media

60 | Freshman Focus

STUDENT MEDIA IS THE VOICE OF MASON’S STUDENT BODY WE PUBLISH STUDENT CONTENT

in print, online, and over the air through Mason’s student-run newspaper, television network, radio station, and literary journals. Reporter, designer, DJ, photographer, and news anchor are just a few of the exciting roles you can explore by getting involved at Student Media.

WE OFFER ACADEMIC CREDIT: COMM 145 (Newspaper I) COMM 345 (Newspaper II) COMM 347 (Cable TV) COMM 148 (Radio I) COMM 348 (Radio II)

(703) 993-9745 | stumedia@gmu.edu

studentmedia.gmu.edu

WANT TO B E A PAR T O F F R E S H MA N FOCU S ?

Visit studentmedia.gmu.edu to join the team.

Visit studentmedia.gmu.edu for more exclusive Mason news & entertainment.

Student Media is an office of University Life.

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