Pepperdine Graphic 8-26-19

Volume xLix, Issue 1 august 26, 2019

the pepperdine

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CONVO CHANGES:

tHE office restructures its program v e rnie covarrubias N e ws A ssista n t The Convocation Office is making big changes to its programming this fall that will include more on-campus speakers, fewer community chapels, increased training for spiritual mentors and pre-planned curriculum for Club Convo leaders.

It is not clear if these changes will affect the number of opportunities to earn convo credit, although there will be fewer community chapels available, said Director of Convocation Gus Peterson. The programs will have a greater emphasis on spiritual development, Peterson added. This change is part of a greater plan to improve students’ engagement with the university’s faith requirement.

“Our changes come out of a place of wanting to do everything with meaning,” Peterson said. “In some ways, if we’re doing something with more intentionality, we have to do less of it.”

Other changes include the opportunity for students to lead from an existing Club Convo curriculum, rather than having the sole responsibility for pitching and developing their own.

In addition, Wednesday Chapel will feature less external speakers and more voices from within the Pepperdine community. Celebration Chapel will go back to one Friday service at 10 a.m. The 14 credit requirement will not change.

A New Theme In conjunction with these changes, the Convocation Office will implement a comprehensive theme: Engage.

“Pepperdine is very good at inviting people to engage,” Peterson said.

“Students that come here very much want to engage in not just classwork or social life, but in all of the extracurriculars.”

This theme will encourage students to hone in on their spiritual development.

“I want to flip ‘Engage’ to be basically about rooted engagement,” Peterson said.

Peterson’s plan is to execute this theme by investing in the quality and depth of the programs through partnerships with other on-campus departments such as Housing and Residence Life, Title IX, Pepperdine Volunteer Center and Intercultural Affairs.

“There will be less external voices, more people from our community expressing who we are as a community,” Peterson said.

The conversations that these departments open up during Wednesday Chapel will carry through into Community Chapel, where the conversation can be more intimate.

The Convocation Office said its intention in providing Club Convo curriculum for student leaders is to lift the burden of creating a curriculum.

“We’re going to be moving toward a model that seeks students who are interested in leading while our office seeks to empower them as leaders,” Peterson said.

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We pray for students to go [to convo] because they want to go.

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rachel collins, assistant director of convocation More Than a Requirement Rachel Collins, assistant director of Convocation, said these developments are a step toward making Convocation more meaningful for students.

“A lot of these changes are basically the result of years of vision casting, dreaming and planning what it would be like to have a Convocation experience that meets every student where

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CHRISTINE BLASEY FORD PRESENTED WITH DISTINGUISHED ALUMNA AWARD anastassia kostin gue st con trib ut or Pepperdine’s Graduate School of Education and Psychology (GSEP) named Christine Blasey Ford a Distinguished Alumna at the GSEP Commencement Ceremony back in May. Ford, a professor at the PGSP-Stanford Psy.D. Consortium, a collaborative program between Palo Alto University and Stanford University, was previously a Malibu resident. She attended Pepperdine University in 1991 and received a master’s degree in clinical psychology.

She later taught at the university between 1995 and 1998 in both undergraduate and graduate psychology programs.

Today, she teaches statistics, research methods and scientific writing, along with serving on numerous dissertation committees and as director of student research competence.

The Distinguished Alumnus Awards recognition program is significant in that each year the GSEP selects two distinguished alumni – one to represent the education division and one to represent the psychology division.

The Pepperdine GSEP community nomites alumni recipient based on their contribution to their respective field and their community as well as their commitment to living out Pepperdine University’s mission of purpose, service and leadership.

The GSEP Alumni Offices coordinates the selection process with collobration with Dean Rick Marrs and associate deans.

Robert deMayo, associate dean and professor of psychology, plays a role in this selection process.

“We try to identify alumni who have distinguished themselves in those three

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realms so we list people who have records of potential accomplishments, [who are] leaders in the field of psychology and education and [who are] serving their communities,” deMayo said.

First, the deans send a Call for Nomination email to faculty and staff in order to nominate a GSEP Distinguished Alumnus. Once a list of nominees is compiled, the associate deans give their top two recommendations to the Dean for the final selection. Finally, the associate deans contact the honorees directly.

Nominees who are not fill-time members of the Pepperdine University faculty or staff are given preference in the selection process.

“We try and find somebody for the Distinguished Alumnus that will inspire students to go on and do inspiring things in their life,” deMayo said. “It’s an opportunity for that year’s graduates to hear about someone who has used the education degree they received to go on and do terrific things.”

Since leaving Pepperdine, Ford advanced in the field of statistics.

She serves as the research psychologist and biostatistician with the department of psychiatry at Stanford University School of Medicine. Her activities in this role include designing studies and conducting statistical analyses in support of faculty research and grant proposals. Ford received a Stanford Fellow and will spend the year at the Center for Advanced Study of the Behavioral Sciences.

In 2019, the State of California District 24 named Ford Woman of the Year and she was the recipient of the 2019 American Association of University Professors’ Georgina Smith Award. In her speech to the GSEP graduating class, Ford thanked the Pepperdine faculty that contributed to her academic journey.

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Courtesy of Pepperdine University Photo courtesy of Pepperdine Inspiring Leader | Ford was named distinguished alumna for her numerous academic contributions and living out Pepperdine’s mission.

“My time at Pepperdine was rich with mentors,” Ford said. “Clarence Hibbs, who taught us to think systemically, Dennis Lowe, who modeled how to teach, Tomas Martinez, who showed us how to maintain both an individual and community perspective and Cary Mitchell, who talked me through my transition from Pepperdine to Stanford.”

One of the mentioned individuals, GSEP Psychology Professor Dennis Lowe, has taught at Pepperdine for 36 years.

Ford was one of his students.

“Christine was an outstanding student in Pepperdine’s master’s program in clinical psychology,” Lowe wrote in an email. “She was very dedicated to her studies and a quick learner. She evidenced both strong academic abilities and interpersonal skills.”

Ford made contributions to both the fields of psychology and statistics, as ev-

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idenced by her listed accomplishments.

“I am glad that we were able to recognize her as a distinguished alumnus of Pepperdine because of the numerous contributions she has made to the psychology field, as well as who she is as a person,” Lowe wrote.

The GSEP prides itself providing innovative academic programs dedicated to building scholar-practitioners and shaping individuals who will be catalysts for inspiration and change.

Ford accepted the award with great graditude.

“It is the highest professional honor of my lifetime to receive this award,” Ford said.

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Laptops hinder attention in class

emily morton s ta f f w ri te r As August comes to an end and classes starts up again, students will start buying school supplies.

But with an increase in technology, materials for school are shifting away from paper and pens to laptops.

My siblings’ schools are changing from traditional writing tools to laptops for students. It brings up the question: which promotes higher learning and a more effective understanding of information?

While using a laptop is more convenient, using a notebook and pen provides a major advantage — less screen time. Fast advances in technology lead to rapidly increasing exposure to screens, which causes a lower performance in thought and language tests, according to WBZ CBS Boston.

As I look around my classes now, more and more of my classmates are dedicating their time to a piece of technology rather than the professor.

Laptops encourage fast evolving technology by granting easy access to many tools, but it draws attention away from the front of the classroom.

When students direct their focus on the keys and the screen, it allows for distractions like email notifications and text messages to pop up. A notebook eliminates these distractions, keeping attention where it is most important: the professor and the class.

By eliminating laptops in the classroom, it encourages active listening to the professor and more engagement in class.

Instead of looking at a screen, students will be able to look up and take part in the class. In my classes, I have been able to express my ideas more clearly and quickly than my classmates typing their notes on a computer – people I’ve often caught writing emails instead of listening to the lecture.

Although technology makes it easier to take notes in class, it does not equate to a higher level of learning. In my experience, the traditional methods of note taking with a pen and notebook allow for a better sense of communication in class.

THE DPS REPORTS Check out pepperdine.edu/publicsafety for the DPS Reports every week

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07/06/19 6:49 p.m.

Crimes: Traffic RelatedReckless Driving Location: Huntsinger Circle

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07/04/19 9:06 a.m.

Crimes: Larceny/TheftPetty Theft - Misc.

Location: DeBell

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Drescher (North)

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07/07/19 8:33 a.m.

Crimes: Traffic RelatedHit and Run, Non-Injury Accident Location: John Tyler Drive 07/14/19 1:11 a.m.

Crimes: Alcohol RelatedDrinking or Intoxication on Campus Location: Seaver Drive Booth

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07/09/19 8:16 a.m.

Crimes: Trespassing Location: School of Law

4 Alumni field (South)

UPCOMING EVENTS THIS SEMESTER What: Ma l ibu chili cook off when: 8/ 30 - 9/2 Wher e: c ivic center way

Wh at: Women’s soccer vs. illinois Wh e N: 8 /30 Wh e re : Tar i Fr ahm r okus field

What: Art and art history welcome reception When: 6 p.m.

Where: weisman museum

W hat: op eni ng rec ep t i on: and t he g rammy ® g oes t o. . .

W he N: 9/ 5 W he r e : pays on l i b rary

W hat: s t ep f orward day 2 01 9 W he N: 9/ 7

c onvo c re dit and othe r e ve n ts this w e e k WEDS. 28

What: Wednesday chapel When: 10 a.m.

Where: firestone fieldhouse

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Wh at: the r etur n Wh e n: 6:30 P.M. Wh e re : ALUMNI PAR K

What: ROCK THE BlOCK When: 6:30 P.M. Wher e: tiner cour t

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TUES.

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Wh at: celeb rat i on c hap el Wh e n:10 A.M .

Wh e re : amphi t heat er

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w hat: f renc h c hap el W he n: 4 P. M. W he r e : s tau f f er c hap el

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W hat: wednes day c hap el W he n: 1 0 a. m.

W he r e : f i res t one f i el dhou s e

Wh at: back i n t he ‘b u Wh e n:7 p.M. Wh e re : uppe r mu l l i n t own sq uar e

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CONVO: A new approach to old ways FROM A1 they’re at,” Collins said.

The Convocation Office recognizes that many students wait until the end of the semester to complete their required 14 credits. This creates a problem where the final few events do not have enough capacity, so student workers have to turn the overflow students away.

“We want to get everything out in the front end,” Peterson said. “We want to do more, and we want it to mean more, but that means that we are going to schedule in advance and put it on the students.”

Peterson said the Convocation Office will be urging students to plan ahead and suggest they try to attend one event per week.

“Convocation, by the nature of the number 14 implies a

weekly rhythm,” Peterson said.

“We are asking you all to be intentional with your rhythms.”

The Convocation Office said it hopes students will find meaning in achieving a weekly rhythm of attending high-quality programs.

“We pray for students to go [to convo] because they want to go,” Collins said. “Our hope is for them to feel like when they go they will really have a strong spiritual experience, regardless of their background, and that there’s something about this Convo requirement that is actually fulfilling.”

The Convocation Office will also increase recruiting and training for faculty-student spiritual mentoring this semester.

Student Responses to Changes Returning students had vary-

ing reactions to the changes.

Senior Parke Ross said he foresees push back from students.

“It’s difficult to get sincere engagement from students in a forced setting,” Ross said. “If students weren’t already going to go out and seek those opportunities, it’s going to feel insincere.”

Kimberly Brooking, a junior who tends to complete her credits in a timely manner, said she sees the value in the upcoming developments.

“I’m looking forward to seeing how these changes affect the Convocation experience because it is so fundamental to the Pepperdine way of life,” Brooking said.

Abby Hunt, a senior and former Club Convo leader, said she would like to utilize the new structure.

“I wanted to do another Club Convo this semester, but I was

overwhelmed by the idea of

File Photo Meaningful Convocation | The Convo Office advocated for fulfilling convocations. The Wells Project kicked off its 10 Days Campaign with its “Why Water?” convocation. creating a whole new curriculum,” Hunt said.

However, she does not agree with lessening the number of Community Chapels.

“I don’t feel like it would in-

The Dirt on Waste:

centivize people to get their credits done earlier,” Hunt said. “If they’re going to procrastinate they will procrastinate no matter what.”

V ER NETTA.C OVAR R UBIAS@PEPPER DINE.EDU

Understanding college recycling programs m ary M ar garet davis per s pective s e dit or G r iffin finck g u est co n t rib ut or Going green has been a national trend in the wake of climate change, but how environmentally sustainable is Pepperdine?

Pepperdine’s recycling program introduced a new system in 2016 after its previous vendor, Crown Disposal, stopped its service in Malibu. Some on campus say the new system is not efficient enough to reach the statewide recycling goals, and the biggest issue Pepperdine faces is recycling education.

“Something that the Green Team is working on in the next couple of months is how to recycle better,” Natalie Freeman, former senior and president of the Green Team, said. “A lot of us are optimistic recyclers, and that’s a huge problem at Pepperdine because there is a new system. It isn’t very effective, and we’re learning that more and more as time goes on.”

Pepperdine did not implement the new system entirely by choice.

The switch had to do with the National Sword, according to Carly Mischke, director of Facilities Services.

National Sword was China’s ban on the importation of certain waste that began January 2018. Since China was the world’s largest importer of waste until this policy, recycling companies in the United States scrambled to find solutions. Pepperdine’s previous garbage hauler, Crown Disposal, was sold, Mischke said. Pepperdine’s sustainability page still lists Crown as Pepperdine’s trash vendor.

Crown disposal used a single-stream recycling method, which consists of both recycled material and trash material being disposed of in the same bags. A vendor hauled and sorted this garbage, and prior to 2018, it was put on a barge that would be sent to China and sorted.

Pepperdine’s new recycling program, contracted with Waste Management, uses a dual-stream recycling program.

This means that both a recycling bag and a waste bag is used throughout campus now, and the responsibility to sort it

is on the individual.

“Single stream doesn’t exist anymore because the money is not there,” Mischke said. “I think it’s harder overall. The burden’s back on us.”

The impact of the change was immense, Mischke said.

“So we went from — and I say we in the very collective sense, California — a system where the hauler, who has all the infrastructure setup to source trash, has pushed that responsibility back to the generator, which is us,” Mischke said. “We obviously don’t have the infrastructure built to do that. We’re having to figure that out along the way of how do we put that back into place, and then drive toward the state goal of 75% diversion by 2025.”

California implemented an initiative in 2011 that set a goal that 75% of all trash would be diverted by 2025, according to CalRecycle.

Religion Professor Christopher Doran, who teaches sustainability courses, said he is skeptical that Waste Management is efficient enough to help Pepperdine reach this goal.

“We’re in negotiations to see if we’re going to go with them permanently, or some others,” Doran said. “Because the state is saying that we need to have a diversion rate; we have to be able to recycle so much material in the longer term and Waste

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Pepperdine certainly has a role to play in [plastic waste], especially with the arrival of Starbucks. natalie freeman, former student and president of the green team

Management is not able to help us meet our goal.”

However, Pepperdine’s struggles did not only begin with the new system. Pepperdine’s partnership with Crown was not as effective as the data had said, Doran noted.

“The problem was, it looked like toward the end of our relationship with them, that they were fudging some of their numbers,” Doran said. “So yeah, it looked really impressive when we went out there. We’re not sure if we were fooled, or if the county was fooled, or if both of us were fooled. But they had some relationships with Pepperdine, because they were sending some of their kids here.”

A critical aspect of the new program is to know what is recyclable and what isn’t.

Camila Pupparo, director of the Center for Sustainability, oversees the student education program.

“So we have a recycling consultant and they do trash audits,” Pupparo said. “So they’ll look at certain spots of campus and certain times of the day and see what is getting thrown away properly or not.”

Knowing where items are more likely to be improperly recycled helps the sustainability center develop new methods for student education. One hotspot for improper recycling is the Starbucks in Payson.

“Plastic waste obviously is such an important part of the public sphere at this point,” Freeman said. “Pepperdine certainly has a role to play in that, especially with the arrival of Starbucks.”

Close to 87% of students are buying at least one food or drink item from Starbucks a week, Doran said. This, combined with Jamba Juice, has generated larger levels of waste.

Many students assume Starbucks cups are recyclable, but Pupparo confirms they are not.

“I think that a lot of the misses are not from a student or staff or a faculty member’s intention of wanting to do it wrong, but just not knowing,” Pupparo said. “So for example, a Starbucks cup. You get your coffee, and then maybe you don’t necessarily know this is recyclable, because it looks like a plastic cup. So you might throw it in the recycling, but actually, the inner lining of the cup has wax and so you can’t recycle it. It’s misinformation.”

Trash cans have a sticker on them that explains what can be recycled and can’t be. However, experts confirm it hasn’t been very effective.

“I don’t know if it’s been as successful as it was hoped,” Mischke said.

Doran said there are better ways to educate Pepperdine on recycling.

“Part of the problem is that we don’t have a comprehensive education policy, the way that lots of other schools do, where every single person that goes through it goes through some kind of education,” Doran said.

“We’ve had twenty something years of this other way of doing it … but that now we’re in a situation where we’re now being asked to act like most other counties and cities around the world and we’re just behind the times. And it’s unclear to me at times where they’re covered.”

Recycling at other schools Pepperdine’s lack of emphasis on sustainably managing its waste is best understood in the context of other universities recycling programs.

Kikei Wong, zero waste coordinator at UCLA, discussed a common pledge many universities across the nation are undertaking in regards to cutting back on the amount of waste they produce.

“As for ‘Zero Waste,’ the interim goal for the University of California was to achieve 75% waste diversion by 2012 and 90% diversion by 2020,” Wong said.

Pepperdine, however, has never openly discussed any intent of becoming a “Zero Waste” university.

In addition to UCLA’s “Zero Waste” initiative, on their Sustainable Practice Policies page, which outlines UCLA’s intentions in regard to all aspects of environmental preservation, they mention their plans to reduce and reuse expanded polystyrene (EPS).

EPS, as it is commonly referred to as, is a styrofoam like plastic that can be molded into many shapes including: coolers, lunch cases, etc. The use of EPS is incredibly harmful to the environment because they are non-recyclable and easily broken into many pieces.

“By 2020, [UCLA] will prohibit the sale, procurement or distribution of Expanded Polystyrene other than that utilized for laboratory supply or medical packaging and products.”

Santa Clara University is also making strides in their waste management sustainability sectors, as Lindsey Kalkbrenner, the Director of SCU’s Center for Sustainability, describes.

Kalkbrenner stated that change in the Universities sustainable waste habit starts with Santa Clara’s faculty.

“We did a major overhaul in how we collect waste from our offices from 2009 to 2012, we converted all the employee’s deskside bins,” Kalkbrenner said. “So rather than the custodian emptying their trash cans, we flipped it so employees receive a recycling bin that custodians empty and then inside it is a tiny little bucket for landfill waste and that’s up to the users to empty.”

Forcing faculty to be responsible for their own non-reusable waste not only sparks the discussion regarding the amount of waste they produce but also helps to maintain a sense of mindfulness toward the products they are purchasing and whether the items are made of recyclable materials, Kalkbrenner said.

In addition to calculating their dining hall’s food waste, Kalkbrenner expressed that SCU also goes through all residence halls trash to gather information on how much waste is irresponsibly disposed of in the dorms. All food waste produced by the university’s main campus is also recycled into feed for livestock.

SCU’s waste data collection does not stop at food waste either, as the university monitors an extensive number of different facilities to get the best understanding of their current diversion rate they can.

Pepperdine, does not monitor food waste or any other types of wastes that are produced in dorms and the cafeteria on campus.

“We do waste characterizations, where we go through the landfill waste of any given building, and sort it out into 16 different categories. We then analyze how much trash should have been diverted,” Kalkbrenner said. “We use the stats that we gather to inform us on how we need to collaborate with other departments so we can act on being more sustainable with our waste.”

The Center for Sustainability’s uses this data for coordination efforts with other departments on campus, such as the Custodial sector, to figure out creative techniques in limiting the amount of food waste on campus.

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Transfers sweep the skit category, Jim Gash makes guest apperance C han na Steinmetz News E dit or

Energy filled Firestone Fieldhouse as freshmen and transfer students made sure they were heard at Pepperdine’s annual Frosh Follies on Saturday night.

The tradition of Frosh Follies included performances of chants and skits focused around notorious Pepperdine stereotypes and gags, along with the university’s history. Freshmen houses Crocker, Eaton, Knott and J. Pen sang an alternative version of Cardi B’s “Bodak Yellow” and Lil Mama’s “Lipgloss.” Their performance was heavily choreographed and rehearsed (with a side of shade toward Miller house), which helped them bring home the win for Best Chant.

Memorable highlights included Hayes, White, Fifield and Pauley’s remix of Will Smith’s “Fresh Prince of Bel Air,” a ring-by-spring proposal at the end of Darnell, Miller, DeBell and Banowsky’s skit and of course, Presi-

dent Jim Gash’s iconic cameo.

Gash cartwheeled into the end of Peppers, Phillips, Connor and E. Pen’s skit about a futuristic Pepperdine that Gash saved from his evil counterpart, Jim Smash.

Transfers proved that they are also a part of Frosh Follies as houses Eden, Shafer, Krown Alpha and Krown Beta took home the win for Best Skit. Students performed a skit on the Legend of Jim Gash, with spoofs of popular songs from Disney’s “Hercules.” The skit included a background story of George Pepperdine being frozen to stone by Medusa, forever residing as the statue down on Mullin Town Square.

Transfer student and junior Adriana Walker said she is grateful she committed the time and energy to practicing with her group.

“I was so fun,” Walker said. “The more we practiced, the more energy we got and by the time we performed, we were super prepared. The hard work paid off, we won!”

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PERSPECTIVES WHAT

PGM

STAFF THINKS

⇧ about the New Year

Caitlin Roark | Art Editor

STAFF EDITORIAL this is the year to embrace recovery First-year students, who are beginning their Pepperdine experience alongside newly selected President Jim Gash, and returning students — especially those who studied abroad — will be experiencing new aspects of campus this upcoming year.

Since the events of last November shaped our identity and unified us in new ways, it may seem challenging for the Pepperdine community to move forward into a year of recovery without forgetting the past.

However, identity does not translate to limitation; the Borderline shooting and the Woolsey Fire will always be a part of Pepperdine, but they won’t be the only part. Students need to be cognizant of the ways they, along with their peers and the greater Malibu area, are recovering while also celebrating the new opportunities and fresh start that come with a new school year.

Cars driving on Pacific Coast Highway zoom past fields of wildflowers and grass that grew earlier this year, evidence of how the rain brought in

life after the fire brought destruction. While trees grow back naturally, unfortunately, homes do not. Neighborhoods across Malibu still have empty lots as people are struggling to obtain building permits.

Change becomes visible with the new Whole Foods and Blue Bottle Coffee near the Country Mart. NSO always brings out the energy and excitement of the Pepperdine community with the promise of a new year.

As Pepperdine students return for the academic year, Malibu gets a bit busier with more people in the grocery store, SunLife and local churches. New classes await.

The Pepperdine community misses President Andrew K. Benton but is excited about a fresh start with its new leadership. Members of the Graphic still remain true to their previous expectations and hopes for the new president but look forward to see how he will guide the University this year.

In a meeting with the PGM staff, Gash said, like

his predecessor, he hopes to be the “students’ president” and is looking forward to getting to know his community on a personal basis. He plans to connect with the student body through his love of sports, his interest in the arts and his faith in God. Gash said although he has no intentions of changing everything that his predecessors have built, he is also not afraid of changing what is necessary. As 2020 draws closer, he and his staff are working on composing a new strategic plan for 2030.

The Health Center and Housing and Residence Office, located in Rho parking lot, and the Counseling Center and Student Accessibility Office, located in the TCC, will be relocated to the SAC, which is beyond the CCB and before the Law School. Whether it is due to the steep hills or ceaseless steps, there are plenty of paths less traveled on campus; students could argue that only desperate situations would compel them to make the trek to these student facilities, but now they will be signifi-

cantly more accessible to the graduate and law campuses.

Additional physical changes to the campus include renovations to the baseball parking lot, which will eventually include a total of 300 parking spaces. Administration also is preparing for the creation of the recreational center in Rho parking lot, another way to eventually improve parking situations on campus.

Beth M. Laux will be serving as the new executive director of International Programs and Eric Wilson has been promoted to the associate dean of Student Affairs.

Vice President of Student Affairs Connie Horton said during a recent meeting with PGM staff that, although Pepperdine students are known for being involved in a wide variety of academic and co-curricular activities, many of which are time-consuming and even overwhelming, she hopes the upcoming school year will result in a less stressed community.

To work toward this goal, Pepperdine will be

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launching its new Resilience Program, on Sept.

19, a program headed

by Joline Gash and the Student Wellness Advisory Board, during President Gash’s inauguration week. The debuting program strives to promote student’s health and well-being through research, on-campus events and education while teaching students how to recognize their needs and raise awareness about the university’s resources.

Change brings the need to be aware and mindful of recovery. As we continue to reflect upon the past year, also remember to appreciate the steps that we take into the future and help those walking alongside you do the same.

We are a community who knows how to give, but remember you cannot take care of others if you do not take care of yourself first. In the midst of being the ideal friend and student, you are still a human first.

Your feelings and emotions are valid, and you deserve to give yourself grace.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Letters to the Editor must bear the writer’s name, signature, class standing, major, address and phone number (except in some circumstances determined appropriate by the Graphic). Letters must be fewer than 300 words and will be edited for syntax, grammar and brevity. Letters can be mailed to student publications or emailed to peppgraphicmedia@ gmail.com

CONTACT US

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STAFF LIST ex ec u ti v e ed i to r a l l i so n l e e M anag i ng Ed i to r m a d e l e i n e ca r r So c i al M ed i a M anag er sava n n a h w e l c h P i x el Ed i to r k i l e y d i ste l r ath o nl i ne p r o d u c er k ayi u w o n g G New s p r o d u c er m a r i sa d r ag o s c o py c hi ef ga b r i e l l e m ath ys c r eati v e d i r ec to r n ata l i e r u l o n New s Ed i to r c h a n n a ste i n m e tz New s As si s tants hadley biggs v e r n i e c ova r r u b i a s j e ssi c a sto m b e r g S p o r ts Ed i to r k yl e m c ca b e s p o r ts c o py ed i to r b rya n t l o n e y sp o r ts W r i ter s tayl o r gath e r a u sti n h a l l k a r l w i n te r P er s p ec ti v es Ed i to r m a ry m a r ga r e t dav i s P er sp ec ti v es ass i stant ca m ryn g o r d o n L i fe & Ar ts Ed i to r g i a n n i co cc h e l a as si s tant L i fe & ar ts ed i to r r o wa n to k e l i fe & ar ts c o py ed i to r makena huey l i fe & ar ts d esi g ner M e l i ssa L o ck e p o d c ast d i r ec to r Kaelin mendez Ar t Ed i to r ca i tl i n r oa r k as si s tant ar t ed i to r s a l ly a r m str o n g m a d e l i n e d u va l l ab r oad c o r r esp o nd ents a sh l e y m o w r e a d e r sawa ya m a k awa adv er ti si ng d i r ec to r so n i r u saga r a Adv er ti s i ng m anag er m aya m c d o w e l l D i r ec to r o f P ep p er d i ne G r ap hi c M ed i a E l i z a b e th Sm i th Ass i stant D i r ec to r O f P ep p er d i ne G r ap hi c M ed i a C o u r te n ay Sta l l i n g s

MISSION STATEMENT “Pepperdine Graphic Media (PGM) is an editorially independent student news organization that focuses on Pepperdine University and the surrounding communities. PGM consists of the digital and print Graphic, a variety of special publications, GNews, Currents Magazine, social media platforms and an Advertising Department. These platforms serve the community with news, opinion, contemporary information and a public forum for discussion.

PGM strengthens students for purpose, service and leadership by developing their skills in writing, editing and publication production, by providing a vehicle to integrate and implement their liberal arts education, and by developing students’ critical thinking through independent editorial judgment. PGM participates in Pepperdine’s Christian mission and affirmations, especially the pursuit of truth, excellence and freedom in a context of public service. Although PGM reports about Pepperdine University and coordinates with curricula in journalism and other disciplines, it is a student (not a University) news organization. Views expressed are diverse and, of course, do not correspond to all views of any University board, administration, faculty, staff, student or other constituency.”

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A UGUST 2 6, 2 0 1 9 | PE RS PE C TIVE S | P E P P E RD I N E G RA P H I C ME D I A

NS- No, thank you c am ry n g o rdo n P er sp ec t ives Assista n t

Those who partake in NSO should be aware of the impact that over-stimulation can have on introverted students.

Pepperdine’s New Student Orientation, better known as NSO, marks the beginning of another wave-filled academic year. As carloads of incoming freshmen and transfer students weave through the screams of overly-comfortable, rambunctious Pepperdine students, some feelings of intimidation and anxiety quickly blanket excitement.

As fun and exciting as this time may seem for incoming students, those who partake in NSO should be aware of the impact that over-stimulation can have on introverted students as it can affect one’s ability to comfortably adapt to campus.

A 1988 dissertation

by Nancy Kay Martin asserts that the ability in which students can adapt to new environments has “long term effects on one’s entire college experience.”

Orientation aims to cushion the college transition and adjust-

ment process for new students by providing opportunities to become familiar with the campus. However, it can also contribute negatively to the adjustment process for those who consider themselves introverted or even shy.

With endless pep rallies, academic orientations and dance parties, it is to no surprise why some students may find themselves overwhelmed and deviate from participating in orientation. Even the most extroverted students can find themselves unable to keep up.

For those who identify as introverts, comfort is found in “minimally stimulating environments” as opposed to “raucous part[ies] full of strangers,” according to a 2012 interview by the Scientific American.

These individuals tend to find social activities to be difficult, draining and ultimately, exhausting.

Some introverted students may feel pressured to appear extroverted so that they do not look out of place during orientation week, propelling one into a limbo of discomfort that ultimately affects their ability to adapt. Orientation can overwhelm some to the point that students withdraw from community-building opportunities or important

A n a s ta s s i a k o s t i n s ta f f w r i t e r

Madeline Duvall | Assistant Art Editor academic sessions.

As someone who normally identifies as an extrovert, there were moments during NSO when the excitement became unbearable and hiding from enthusiastic orientation leaders became second nature.

Between stress-induced academic sessions and Frosh Follies rehearsals, feelings of discouragement and discomfort began to weigh on me.

For the incoming freshmen, this new chapter at Pepperdine comes with untapped independence and responsibility. In an era of redefining oneself both socially and academically, the freshmen are

also stepping into uncharted territory where they get to decide for themselves who they want to be and what impact they want to leave on campus.

As a new student on campus it is equally important to take orientation at one’s own pace. If NSO events begin to increase anxieties, take a break from the schedule and spend time with alone or with visiting family.

As orientation leaders, it is important to remember that students adjust differently to new environments.

While NSO is a time for people to get to know the campus and build

community, understand that this is an immense change for many. Take the role of a leader with caution and provide space for new students to process the entirety of this change.

As the school year officially begins, be mindful of new student adaptation. Take the time to remember that not everyone is ready to jump right into Pepperdine. While Pepperdine students learn to be leading lights for those who seek it, they cannot fulfill that responsibility until they are ready to seek guidance.

C AM RYN.GOR DON@PEPPER DINE.EDU

Stop letting conspiracy theories become memes

m a r y m a r g a r e t d av i s perspectives editor

Did Jeffrey Epstein commit suicide, or did someone have him assassinated? Could the the moon landing act as a faked on a Hollywood set? Do the flat earthers have something?

These are just a few conspiracy theories that now permeate mainstream media. As these theories gain traction, most of us look on in amusement. Memes are made, Twitter begins to mock them and maybe some believe that there may be some truth in them.

Despite the world’s lighthearted attitude toward these backwards theories, the hidden universe of conspiracy theorists is growing, and with it, a hardened mistrust for the world, including our government, the scientific community and the very people around them.

The hidden consequences of this world of wariness affect everyone, including Pepperdine, and the world has a responsibility to fight it. If conspiracy theories are left unchecked, the consequences could span from misdirected hatred to dangerous health consequences.

TIME recently published an article on the sheer prominence of conspiracy theories. In it, they estimate that half of the U.S. population believe in them. That staggering number should be alarming to read. Without the pretty name, conspiracy theories

It’s OK to be a child

Caitlin Roark | Art Editor

Madeline Duvall | Assistant Art Editor are in its simplest terms a wildfire-like spread of misinformation and they often have dangerous consequences to everyone, both on our small campus scale and on a global scale.

A popular conspiracy theory about vaccines is just one example of the consequences that may arise from the growing trend of such information: Vaccines cause autism.

In California alone, CNN reported that in the 2013 school year, more than 17,000 students chose exemption from mandatory vaccinations for psychological reasons.

In the same report, a survey found that 57% of parents who refuse to vaccinate their children say they have concerns about autism.

This theory initially necame sparked by a sole discredited 1997 medical study and its author lost his medical license since then. Despite this and overwhelming subsequent studies to further prove there is no correlation between vaccines and autism, many still

refuse to vaccinate their children and point to the 22-year-old study as their reasoning.

Without the community of conspiracy theorists, the unfounded belief that vaccines cause autism would no longer be as prominent as it currently is. Yet a distinguishable trait in the world of conspiracy is a firm refusal to believe in science; in fact, many theorists refer to science as “scientism,” arguing that science is a blindly-followed religion rather than fact, and what it tells us is often simply the government pulling behind-the-scenes strings for its own gain.

Conspiracy theorists are distrustful by nature; in a 2019 study, ResearchGate reported that many self-proclaimed conspiracy theorists do not trust mainstream and standard sources of information, and instead rely on their own insight. This is most noticeable in flat earthers who often claim that if the earth were round, it wouldn’t look flat to the naked

eye. Not only do they believe the earth is flat, many now believe that all of NASA’s works creates lies; many flat earthers analyze footage of space exploration, looking for supposed flaws in what they claim is simply Hollywood special effects magic.

Such a strong mistrust in government is generally not surprising, given America’s divisive political climate. A mistrust in science, however, is dangerous. The world continues to give these communities our attention through online mockery, and in doing so, we give them a platform to continue to spread vicious misinformation.

Instead of retweeting the next flat earth meme, reflect on its unseen consequences. The best way to prevent the spread of misinformation is to fight it rather than mock it. Keep yourself informed, and spread correct and unbiased information from reputable sources.

M AGGIE.DAV IS@PEPPER DINE.EDU

“What, are you like 4?” my friend asked when I came over to watch cartoons wearing a Stitch onesie as if it were the most normal thing in the world.

I got used to this question after countless occasions, along with getting strange looks from screaming after seeing candy shops, skipping across the road instead of walking and putting on wacky outfits at thrift shops just for fun.

When I act childlike, I feel more creative, imaginative and more open to possibilities. I feel as if there are no limits and ask endless questions to try and understand the diverse world we live in.

Too often, I see college students rushing to become adults, engaging in behaviors that they feel makes them seem more mature or overthinking to the point of constant negative thoughts. However, college is not just about what is ahead, but what is happening now. More than grades, it is about building relationships, personal growth and learning to understand and empathize with others.

When I think about my own experiences with children working as a camp counselor, what stands out to me the most is how well they live in the present, with little concern about what’s “cool” or what’s accepted by society. They live with a contagious spirit, refusing to be placed in a box or molded into someone they are not.

While there is a time and place for people to be mature, organized and fulfill commitments, it is important to disengage from time to time and experience true joy. For one, a lot of everyday activities college students partake in are sedentary, whether that is sitting at a desk or watching TV. It wouldn’t hurt to once in a while get up and dance like a maniac or sing like no one is listening. Another activity could be to join an intramural sports team or go to the beach and look for cool rocks to name.

Holding on to that childlike state of mind enables people to experience the world in a different way instead of letting society suppress their imagination, creativity and ability to find pleasure in the little things.

If students were to bring that childlike energy to the classroom or to their work, they could see an increase in their own happiness.

For example, the benefits of play for adults include relieving stress, improving brain function, improving relationships, stimulating the mind and boosting creativity, according to HelpGuide. Surely the childlike experiences bring back some nostalgic memories as well, when life was a bit simpler.

Embrace the chaos and stay curious; adulthood is right around the corner.

NASTASSIA.KOSTIN@PEPPER DINE.EDU

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Pepp embarks into esports territory jess ica stomberg sta ff write r gab rielle mathys copy e d itor Pepperdine jumped into the world of esports by starting their own program this summer and participating in the LA Valiant’s Road to Kit Kat Collegiate Overwatch Tournament. esports, also known as Electronic Sports, is competitive, organized video gaming in which players from different teams face off in popular games such as “League of Legends” and “Overwatch.”

Grace Ramsey, team manager of the Pepperdine esports Program, spoke about the incredible opportunity that the tournament was for the Pepperdine program.

“The fact that we were invited as a school that has not participated in any official collegiate esports seasons is a really big deal,” Ramsey said. “Obviously, the word has already gotten out there that we’re here and hitting the ground running.”

Esports is a growing billion-dollar industry, according to CNN. “380 million people worldwide will watch esports this year ... tournaments and other events can attract viewing crowds that rival most traditional pro-

Making Their Mark | Pepperdine eSports unveiled their new logo.

fessional sports outings,” the CNN article states. “The 2017 ‘League of Legends’ World Championship drew more than 80 million viewers, making it one of the most popular esports competitions ever.”

The esports industry has been gaining more and more traction, and with that, colleges are starting to get involved.

“Only seven colleges had varsity esports programs in July of 2016. By 2018, there were 63 institutions,” according to GameDesigning.

With the industry on the rise, colleges are starting to see the opportunities esports teams can bring. Colleges have recognized that with this growing industry comes job opportunities. Being on a formal team provides college students practice and experience with the industry, Ramsey said.

“Esports is a billion-dollar industry in this country, and collegiate esports is only getting bigger and bigger,” Ramsey pointed out. “Even if people aren’t going to become pro eSport athletes in the future, there are job opportunities in this field. There are experiences that being a collegiate player can help you with if you want to go into this field.”

Throughout the past two months, Pepperdine had the opportunity to compete in an exclusive collegiate tournament hosted by the LA Valiant, competing against Orange Coast College on Aug. 2. A team of Pepperdine students volunteered and remotely prepared for the tournament.

In mid-June, the LA Valiant approached Pepperdine and invited them to apply for the tournament.

The “Overwatch” tournament accepted eight schools, with Pepperdine pushing out two other universities to claim spot number eight. For the month leading up to the tournament, voting took place to decide which schools would be invited to compete. The tournament asked individuals interested to share a link with their school, friends and family in which people could then vote for their school to be accepted into

Gabrielle Mathys | Copy Editor Growing Interest | First-years sign up to join the Pepperdine eSports team at Waves Expo 2019. The team will have tryouts later this Sept. the tournament.

Robb Bolton, director of Campus Recreation, talked about the heavy interest in esports from Pepperdine students.

A meeting about esports was hosted this past spring that attracted an overload of students causing there to be standing room only, Bolton said. They compiled an interest list of over 100 students.

“Since I’ve been the director, that’s by far the most [interest in] anything we’ve ever put out there,” Bolton said.

“I think the most before [esports] for any trip or sport or fitness event was probably in the twenties, so to have one hundred students reply was pretty significant.”

Pepperdine has been receiving a large amount of support for their esports program.

Bolton said big names in the esports industry, such as Twitch, ULT and Collegiate Starleague, have already reached out to Pepperdine and expressed their interest in talking to students and helping with program development.

Pepperdine’s president, Jim Gash, is

fully supportive of an esports program, Bolton said.

“We have already had a meeting with President Gash, and he has expressed his interest in esports,” Bolton said.

“He’s already seen the potential with this industry, and I know he’s already been meeting with some of the big leaders in the gaming world because that was something on his agenda already.

He gets it, that this is something that’s a great opportunity for students.”

If you are interested in getting involved with the esports program, there will be a meeting Sept. 5, with tryouts happening in mid-September. Whether you are interested in playing competitively or just want to experience esports on an intramural team, contact Robb Bolton by email: robb.bolton@ pepperdine.edu.

There is also the Pepperdine Gaming Club, which Ramsey said will focus on “more casual gaming and career development.” If you are interested, contact the president, Adrian Tull, by email: adrian.tull@pepperdine.edu.

JESSIC A.STOM BER G@PEPPER DINE.EDU GABBY.M ATHYS@PEPPER DINE.EDU

Au g u s t 26, 2019

The Graphic

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p e p p e rd in e - g ra p h ic.co m

LIFE & ARTS

Board dives into new changes and events v er nie C ovarru bias New s as si sta n t

R o wan toke A s si stant li f e an d arts edi tor The Board is implementing some big changes this year, including committee structure and more inclusive events, said Louise Dequilla, student programing coordinator for The Board.

As in past years, committees will plan events; however the types of events will no longer determine the committees.

In past years, six pairs of two made up each committee. Each committee was focused on one type of event and could only propose events of that nature.

“This year we are giving all of our student leaders free rein,” Dequilla said.

Dequilla said The Board sent out a survey last year to undergraduate students to learn more about what should be changed. Now, its task is putting that feedback into action.

“They’re listening to what the students actually want versus saying, ‘OK, well we have to do X, Y and Z,’ so it’s a lot more interactive,” Dequilla said.

Seniors Kellie Warren and Annelise Adrian are returning Board members who work togeth-

er as a team within The Board.

“We just want to build community,” Warren said. “If there are events that students want that they don’t see, we have the resources, planning and budget to make those dreams happen.”

Back in the ‘Bu The first Friday of the semester, Aug. 30, The Board will host a welcome back event on Alumni Field for all students.

The event will have various food trucks and booths featuring Malibu restaurants and retailers, respectively. There will also be opportunities to get to know the local businesses and win gift certificates.

“It’s to give, not just new students but really everyone, a nice welcome back to campus and see the cool things that are around,” Dequilla said.

Labor Day Veg Fest In order to serve the needs of all students, The Board plans to offer diverse food options for an expansive range of dietary restrictions at its Labor Day event at the Miller and DeBell volleyball courts.

The Board hopes that the event will bring the community together in a way that welcomes

“

Photo Courtesy of The Board Picture Perfect | Members of the Board poses on Alumni Park. They have restructured their team to allow committees to pitch and support events of all styles and themes throughout the year. everyone who does not have Labor Day plans or the opportunity to travel home.

“It’s really catered to the students who are vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free,” Warren said. “We’re splurging on barbecue-esque food for people with dietary restrictions.”

Blue and Orange Madness Waves

Weekend,

which is held annually in October, is a time for current students, alumni, Pepperdine friends and community members to come together for a weekend filled with fun events and activities including Blue and Orange Madness. Blue and Orange Madness will kick off the women’s and men’s basketball seasons with a ferris wheel, carnival rides, game booths and a petting zoo in the Firestone Fieldhouse

parking lot Friday, Oct. 11 at 8:15 p.m. Pepperdine’s Wind Ensemble will play a concert at the beginning of the event.

This year, The Board wants to focus on making it a family-friendly carnival theme by incorporating rides and games that families will enjoy.

“We are trying to cater to a bigger audience this year,” Adrian said.

“That’s our whole thing: to try and make sure everyone is included.”

With this new change in structure, The Board is excited to welcome change and encourage students to provide feedabck and support.

If you have any suggestions or event ideas, the Board welcomes you to reach out and email them at spb@pepperdine.edu.

V ER NETTA.C OVAR R UBIAS@PEPPER DIne.EDU R OWAN.TOK E@PEPPER DINE.EDU

Beth Laux begins as new IP executive director R o wa n Toke Li f e and art s assista n t

Pepperdine’s new executive director of International Programs (IP) Beth M. Laux, who succeeded Charles Hall as of Aug. 1, said studying abroad during her undergraduate education shaped her life and expanded her worldview.

Pepperdine’s International Programs give students the opportunity to study abroad in seven possible locations during the academic year, and other international locations during the summer. Pepperdine was ranked within the top five undergraduate universities in the U.S. for the highest percentage of undergraduate participation for the fifth year in a row, according to the Institute of International Education. As executive director, Laux will lead each of these programs with the students and faculty in mind.

“It was very empowering to realize that there was more opportunity out there for me to contribute to the world and for me to learn from the world than I had ever imagined,” Laux said.

Laux, who has worked in international education for the past 20 years, said she did not envision it to be her career when she began as a first-generation student at Aquinas College in Michigan.

Since she had no intention of studying abroad, Laux said it took a faculty member an entire semester to recruit her.

What really draws me to international education is the opportunity to engage with students at that level and understanding all of the challenges that they face. beth laux, executive director of IP

She then applied to the undergrad Costa Rica program and was accepted for a semester abroad during her junior year.

Grateful for that faculty member, Laux said the experience of going abroad transformed the way she saw the world.

“It changed the way I saw my faith, it changed the way I saw the purpose of my education and it changed the way that I envisioned what I was called to do,” Laux said.

During her last years at Aquinas College, Laux went to Spain for another semester abroad, hoping she would discover her vocation. Laux said after graduation she did not know what she wanted to do and was still “adrift.”

After working as a missionary in Central America post-graduation, Aquinas College offered her a position as the director for study abroad in an interim capacity. Afterward, Laux served as the study abroad coordinator at Michigan State University and then the director for learning

abroad at the University of Utah.

“What really draws me to international education is the opportunity to engage with students at that level and understanding all of the challenges that they face,” Laux said. “Whether it’s being nervous about applying because I was the student who didn’t intend to apply or whether it was navigating the culture when I got on-site, I’ve been there and I’ve been able to walk students through that process or whether the challenge is coming home because for me that was a challenge.”

When asked about the difference between Hall’s previous title as dean of IP and her own, Laux said it is the same position despite the alternate title.

“I am finishing up a doctorate [in education], and it would be highly unusual in international education for someone who doesn’t have a doctorate to have the title of dean,” Laux said.

Laux said she has a few more

courses to finish this year and will then begin her dissertation at Northeastern University in Massachusetts.

Once she receives her doctorate, Laux said the title will be changed back to dean of IP to reflect her educational level at that point, but the work will not change.

Laux said she does not foresee any immediate changes because of Pepperdine’s “wonderful foundation” and will focus on learning this year.

“I have heard, several times, the phrase ‘Leadership without context is chaos,’ and so

this year is about the context and learning that context so that I can support Pepperdine students and faculty,” Laux said.

However, Laux said she is interested in looking into research opportunities abroad in order to prepare students for graduate school or expanding internships to build a stronger connection between IP and the workforce.

“A lot of those things are [already] in the IP programs,” Laux said. “What I want to explore is trying to make them

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Courtesy of Beth Laux First Day on the Job| Beth Laux began as the Executive director of IP on Aug 1. Charles Hall preceded Laux and stepped down to resume teaching.

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What did you do this summer? summer profiles

A variety of Pepperdine students reflect on how they spent their four-month-long summer as they begin to return to Malibu. Not only is summer a well-deserved break from school work for some, but it is also the perfect time for students to travel, work and gain new experiences. It’s the perfect opportunity to embark on a new adventure, which many Waves did over the past few months.

m a ry el iz a b e th sa l l e y j u ni o r

erica lewis j u n io r

el i sum p te r sophom o r e

l i ly dye r sophom o r e

c i n dy k i m s e ni o r

a l ex a b ors ta d sophom o r e

“This summer, I interned at a local wedding magazine in my hometown as an editorial intern. I got to communicate with local bridal designers, write for their daily bridal blog and edit the summer issue that printed at the end of July. As an aspiring writer, Charleston Weddings was such a fun entrance into the world of magazine editing and publishing.”

“I spent the summer mostly working.

I started my own business and was able to make some money for myself and also some to help my girlfriend who needed some extra income. Toward the end of the summer, I took a trip to Colorado, where I spent time exploring and enjoying the beautiful environment.”

r ay mo nd r id e r soph om ore

“This summer, I was the Central Feature Production Intern for ‘Trolls 2’ at DreamWorks Animation! I shadowed each department in the pipeline, working with story and editorial, art, layout, animation, character FX, crowds, FX, matte painting and lighting.

I got to meet and work with a variety of people on the show, from directors and producers to production staff, artists, animators and more. My supervisors and I essentially were working to make sure the tasks of all the artists, all the different meetings, everything in our system and every detail of the movie was organized, on schedule and perfected. I learned a ton about communication on a massive scale and fell in love with the whole process as well as the film itself. Go check it out on April 17, 2020!”

s o fia gadegaard sh ah s enio r

“I spent the summer meditating in Ohio and honing in on my gifts. I was involved in a musical with Canton’s Kingdom Center Arts Academy. I played the role of C.C. in a production of ‘Dream Girls.’ This experience was the perfect summer opportunity! ‘Dream Girls’ allowed me to work on vocal range expansion and character work.”

“I went to Mexico and built three houses for families in TJ [Tijuana] with my church. I coached beach volleyball for my job. I took three summer school classes online, and I worked out and went to personal training every day.”

k y l e o’ ne il l soph omore

jo s h leow sopho mo re

Larissa seibt s enio r

cha r l o t t e lan g j un ior

“This summer I represented Nepal at the 18th FINA World Swimming Championships in Gwangju, Korea. This was my fourth World Championships for Nepal and also my 12th international competition. I spent most of my summer training about five hours per day in Phuket, Thailand at a training facility to prepare. In Korea, I swam the 50-meter freestyle and the 50-meter butterfly, swimming decent times in both. It was a great experience to be back on the world stage and I’m determined now to work toward the Tokyo Olympics in 2020. Another great aspect was having my brother on the team with me, having it be his first world championships and breaking two Nepali national records.”

“Talk about personal growth. I am beyond blessed to attend a university like Pepperdine that recognizes the importance of taking into account multiple perspectives by seeing the world. This summer I had the opportunity to spend time in the Middle East with Pepperdine IP [International Programs]. Immersing in the culture of Jordan not only helped me see a different way of life, but helped me to develop an utmost respect for people who see things completely differently than I do. I feel that going forward, my time in Jordan has given me tools I can use throughout my life, not only in ministry, but also in everyday life. I am simply thankful and grateful for this experience.”

“This summer I had the opportunity to work at Hume Lake Christian Camp as a recreation leader. Every day I would lead roughly 500 middle school students in games and activities as well as provide spiritual guidance and mentorship.

At Hume, thousands of students are exposed to the good news of the Gospel, and I witnessed firsthand the lives changed, and I am extremely blessed to have played such an amazing role in this ministry. Best summer of my life!”

“During my month in Fiji, I was blown away by the Fijian’s warm and genuine hospitality. From the moment we arrived at the Mission, they made each and every person feel seen, heard and known. I admired their passion for relational ministry, storytelling and active listening — qualities that I find are sometimes a bit difficult to see in the U.S. Whether it was helping teachers with lesson planning at the local school, learning how to shred coconuts, assisting the dentists/doctors with taking care of patients or even just playing volleyball with locals, we tried our best to put people first. When I look back at my experience this past summer, I went to Fiji hoping I would get to serve its people and the Mission we were staying at, but I feel like it was the exact opposite and I ended up being served by them.”

“I interned at a music publishing company called Position Music in Burbank, California. The company is also in the process of becoming an independent record label and management company.

I worked with the A & R (artist and repertoire) department. I got to work on various projects related to artist management including concert scheduling, T-shirt designs and photography and social media accounts. I pitched new music from our artists to Spotify for playlists.”

Ch ristin a Stratton junio r

“I was the emcee for the Miss Missouri Pageant. It was the 50th anniversary of the competition, and over 6,000 people attended the four-day event. Historically, a TV personality or news anchor is the host, so it was an honor to announce the winner and serve as the host for the event.”

W yatt Youn g S o pho mo re

“This past summer, I was lucky enough to get a chance to play in the Cape Cod Baseball League.

I started out as a temporary player but was able to play my way into a full-time job. It was a great experience, and I couldn’t be more grateful.”

“This summer I studied abroad with Pepperdine with the China/Japan Asia Tour Program. Studying abroad this summer was such an amazing and unique experience. From being a part of a new culture to learning a little bit of Mandarin, I feel like I have learned and experienced so much. Traveling to nearby cities such as Hangzhou, Suzhou, Yangshuo and Beijing showed me the natural beauty and historical importance of each place I visited. I would not change this experience for the world, and I am ready to go back and explore Asia more!”

“I had the incredible opportunity to study and intern in London, England this summer. I interned in the House of Commons for the United Kingdom’s Parliament and worked for two members of Parliament. Theresa May, the former prime minister, resigned at the end of my first week of the internship, so I got to experience the leadership race as well as regular parliamentary proceedings. One of the members for whom I interned was a candidate for the prime minister seat, and I assisted with the campaign. In addition to my work on the campaign, I assisted the office in the gathering, compiling and organizing of data. My favorite part of the internship was experiencing the United Kingdom’s legislative branch firsthand and being able to compare it to the American system.”

A UGUST 2 6, 2 0 1 9 | L IFE A N D A RTS | P E P P ERD I N E G RA P H I C ME D I A

Hot summer stories hit the Hollywood screens

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Gianni Cocchella life an d arts E d itor Rowan Toke li fe a n d arts Assista n t E dit or This summer, entertainment reached new heights and set groundbreaking records with the release of numerous films, TV shows and music. The entertainment industry, a massive and lively entity, continues to grow and influence pop culture as new material continues to be released.

Films Summer, often known as blockbuster film season, is the perfect time for the biggest names in film production to release their latest hits.

Students are out for summer, families are spending time together and everyone is desperate to escape the heat within the oasis of an air-conditioned movie theater.

“Avengers: Endgame” was the highest anticipated film of the summer, according to TIME. The film opened April 26 and was the climactic culmination of the first 21 Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) films.

Captain Marvel (Brie Larson), who was introduced in her namesake film, teamed up with the other Avengers for an epic battle that united the characters of the MCU against antagonist Thanos, one of the most dreaded supervillains in the MCU.

The film moved many Marvel fans to tears, according to the Washington Examiner. After 13 weeks in theaters and a rerelease with new material, “Endgame” made an estimated $2.79 billion, becoming the most successful movie of all time, according to Vox. “Booksmart” — which focuses on two high school “goody-twoshoes” using their last night before graduation to make up for their lack of bad decisions in the last four years — was Olivia Wilde’s directorial debut. The film gained attention for having all-female leads and ranked fourth in the list of films that people would be talking about, according to Harper’s Bazaar. Starring Kaitlyn Dever and Beanie Feldstein, the film was meant to be an honest depiction of the female high school experience.

Quentin Tarantino’s latest film “Once Upon a Time in Hollywood” is not a true-crime documentary about actress Sharon Tate. Instead, it is a crime thriller that focuses on washed-up actor Rick Dalton (Leonardo DiCaprio) and his stunt double Cliff Booth (Brad Pitt). The film depicts 1969 Hollywood in vivid detail, while also

Photo courtesy of HBO

Left: “Big Little Lies” season two aired in June 2019 on HBO. Right: Taylor Swift’s most recent album, “Lover,” was released Aug. 22. Fans were anticipating her new album all summer. blurring the line between fact and fiction.

Viewers can expect a shocking twist and a new understanding of the story. The film ranked nineteenth out of the top twenty-three summer 2019 films that people will be talking about, according to Harper’s Bazaar.

TV Shows

Back in the 90s | The highly anticipated “Once Upon a Time” hit theaters July 26.

Similar to films, TV shows give students and families another escape from the heat but in a bingeable format. Some of these shows are so good that viewers can’t stop at one episode, and summer gives them the freedom to watch as many as they want.

After making a huge splash in its first season, “Big Little Lies” (BLL) returned to HBO and picked up right where it left off. This season will explore the Monterey Five’s decision as to whether or not to keep their secrets or tell the police everything. Meryl Streep also joined the cast. BLL ranked sixth in the best shows to binge when the temperature rises, according to Esquire.

“Younger” returned to TV Land for its sixth season this summer. Sutton Foster stars as Liza Miller, a 40-year-old woman attempting to reinvent

universally accessible to all programs.”

Laux said she believes that Pepperdine has a lot of untapped potential at this point.

In an effort to become acquainted with the programs, Laux said she hopes to visit all of the sites in her first year and has already been to Pepperdine’s Shanghai campus.

Laux said she has visited and worked in over 20 countries.

Even so, Laux said

going abroad; I’ve been the faculty director who is accompanying students along and sort of supporting them through that journey; I’ve been the program director on site welcoming students to a program, and I’ve been an administrator in the United States trying to run programs from the main campus perspective,” Laux said.

Dean of Seaver College Michael Feltner spoke of his confidence in Laux in a press release published

Photo courtesy of Colombia Pictures

Photo Courtesy of taylorswift.com

herself after a nasty divorce. This show is acclaimed for exploring agism, as Foster’s character begins as an assistant in an office of unsuspecting millennials. “Younger,” which is not known for its huge audience, ranked as the eighth most binged show, according to Esquire.

“Veronica Mars” returned to screens this summer after finding its new home on Hulu streaming service. The revival brings eight new episodes and the return of Kristen Bell starring as the eponymous character. Set in California, the show focuses on the death of spring breakers and a looming serial killer. “Veronica Mars” is one of the top six new shows of summer 2019, according to Time.

This summer was renowned for lots of funfilled tunes. Regardless, people love summer for its endless barbecues, pool outings and time well spent at the beach — with catchy music to go along.

The viral rap country single “Old Town Road”

by Lil Nas X became the longest running number one song in US chart history this summer, according to an article

by BBC. The rapper, who

dropped out of college and recently came out in June at the end of pride month, released the song last October and gained attention after the song went viral on the social media video app Tik Tok. The song has numerous remixes — the most popular features Billy Ray Cyrus — and has become a summer staple.

Billie Eilish’s “Bad Guy” recently dethroned “Old Town Road” and become the new No 1., ending Lil Nas X’s 19-week streak, according to NPR. Eilish’s song is edgy and different than most other top hits. Eilish released a remix of the song with Justin Bieber in July, gaining noticeable fan attention and reactions, according to CNN. Having been a long-time fan of Bieber’s, Eilish expressed a lot of excitement for their collaboration.

“That [Bieber] was like my first love,” Eilish said in an interview with Marie Claire. “That was the person I was in love with, in my head he was in love with me, it was like a relationship with a person.”

Also captivating listeners with her catchy lyrics and funky beats, Lizzo provides fun and energetic music in her album “Cuz I Love You.” Her songs “Juice” and “Truth Hurts” have become summer sensa-

tions and uplifting bops.

Her rapping and lyrics are infectious and have a memorable beat that has left an important trace this summer.

Taylor Swift has also been hitting the studio recently, releasing music throughout the summer.

She’s dropped a few singles throughout the summer in anticipation for her new album “Lover” including “Me!” featuring Brendon Urie of Panic! At the Disco and “You Need to Calm Down.”

The album, which dropped Aug. 23, is expected to continue the trend of summer hits.

Both songs indicate a new chapter in Swift’s life and her plans to continue to release new music for diehard fans and haters alike. In efforts to focus more on upbeat and positive themes rather than seeking rivalry-fueled revenge, Swift takes a more optimistic and encouraging approach for this new album, according to an article by Vox. The only thing that might be better than enjoying summer entertainment while soaking up sun and freedom is reminiscing on the memories made while in the throes of school work.

April 1.

“Beth is imminently qualified and prepared to lead international programs into the future,” Feltner wrote. “I am excited to work alongside her to advance our existing programs and to explore new opportunities that provide students with opportunities for intellectual, social, personal and spiritual transformations.”

Laux said she was drawn to apply to Pepperdine because of the uni-

versity’s strong foundation and the faith-based component of the institution.

Feltner agreed.

“I am confident that from this foundation, Beth will lead international programs to even greater height,” Feltner wrote.

Feltner and Laux said they greatly value the university’s Church of Christ background and its connection to education.

“I am really looking

forward to reconnecting spiritual growth with international education,” Laux said.

As IP experiences new change in the Malibu office with Laux assuming her new position, new leadership is also occurring in the Buenos Aries program with Travis Hill-Weber appointed as the new director of the program. These exciting changes are leading IP and Seaver College in a new direction.

Music

GIANNI.C OC C HEL L A@PEPPER DINE.EDU R OWAN.TOK E@PEPPER DINE.EDU

LAUX: prepared to lead new IP year with faith “one of the things that I’ve found, as I reflect on my travels, is that I really don’t have a favorite place; I have favorite things about each place.”

Laux said she is excited about helping IP be more successful in terms of students’ intercultural competence, which is becoming increasingly meaningful in a globalized world. Her travel experience will be valuable in this aspect of her position.

“I’ve been the student

R OWAN.TOK E@PEPPER DINE.EDU

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A UGUST 2 6, 2 0 1 9 | L IFE A N D A RTS | P E P P ERD I N E G RA P H I C ME D I A

President Gash welcomes new class at Tiner Court Kaelin Mendez P odc a st produce r

With the conclusion of NSO, President Jim Gash and First Lady Joline Gash, along with other Pepperdine community members, opened their homes to the class of 2023. The night was filled with endless food, the possibility of new friendships and lively entertainment.

Although the event, previously known as “My Tie,� was historically held at Brock House, it was moved to Tiner Court due to restoration and renovations. This night was a memorable opening event for first-year students, made even more special by the introduction of President Gash and the new location.

A UGUST 2 6, 2 0 1 9 | S PORTS | P E P P E R DI N E G RA P H I C ME D I A

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Rising Seniors| Seniors (from left to right) Hana Lishman, Chris Dilworth and Hailey Stenberg are shown competing in their respective sports during the fall season. Bela Garcia-Arce (second from right) and Jalen Frantal (far right) are shown competing in the spring track season.

Photo credit (from left to right): File Photo, Photo courtesy of Catharyn Hayne, File Photo, Photos by Karl Winter.

Seniors prepare for final ride Kar l winter s taf f write r

Hana Lishman, Women’s Volleyball

“Personally, [the goal is] to just leave it out there on the court,” Lishman said. “It’s [my] last season ... kind of sad … everything just flew by so quickly, but [the goal is] leaving it all out there and really enjoying the season and soaking it all in.”

vated,” he said. “This summer, we’ve had one of the best summer trainings that I’ve ever been a part of here.”

Ultimately, the Rhetoric and Leadership major summarized his goals for his final year in two sentences.

“I just want to want to have fun and improve internally,” Dilworth said. “And if I can help the people around me improve as well, I’ll be happy.”

When Scott Wong took the job as the Head Coach of Pepperdine Women’s Volleyball in 2014 after five seasons as an as- Chris Dilworth, Men’s Water sociate coach at the University Polo of Hawaiʻi, a young recruit from Oahu followed him to Malibu.

The reigning male Wave of The recruit, Hana Lishman the Year is back for a fifth year from Kailua, played libero in with Pepperdine Water Polo.

Hailey Stenberg, Women’s every set for the Waves as a Having missed the entire Soccer freshman in 2016. That team 2016 season with torn hip finished just 13-17. labra, Chris Dilworth said he A consistent presence on Since then, Wong and Lish- had no doubt that he wanted to one of the most consistently man have seen the program remain with his teammates for successful programs at Peppergrow to a 22-9 team, West Coast another run. dine, Hailey Stenberg is eager to Conference (WCC) contender “Pepperdine Water Polo [is embrace any role that her team and NCAA Tournament team in a] family,” Dilworth said. “I’ve may need.

2018. gotten the opportunity to work “This year, it looks like I’m “Every year, we’ve had great and play with so many differ- going to be playing midfield …” incoming freshmen or even ent guys from different back- said Stenberg, who has played transfers that help build the grounds who are from all over midfield and forward in her 58 foundation and set the culture the world, and I get the oppor- games as a Wave over the past here,” Lishman said. “It’s just tunity to call each and every one three years. “I’m just really exsuper cool to see [the team] ev- of those guys my brothers.” cited to help out the team in any ery year growing closer and Dilworth, an imposing fig- way I can.” closer together.” ure at 6 feet 4 inches and 250 Stenberg made her 28th caLishman has been the lead- pounds, was recognized as one reer start Thursday against the er of the backcourt throughout of the most spirited and beloved University of California, Riverher career as a Wave, aiming to figures in the athletic depart- side, as Pepperdine Women’s “be really consistent with our ment by his fellow student-ath- Soccer began its 27th season of defense.” letes at the 2019 Pepp ESPY existence. In that time, the proNow, she and fellow seniors awards in April. gram has 20 winning seasons.

Tarah Wylie, middle blocker, “[The Wave of the Year According to the Huntington and Hannah Frohling, outside award] meant a lot … I didn’t ex- Beach native, playing soccer at hitter, join forces as the de fac- pect it at all, it came as a shock,” Pepperdine “has been, honestly, to leaders of a team looking to Dilworth said. “I don’t really do such a great journey.” She addbuild on its recent success. things for recognition … I just ed, “I have learned more about “It’s kind of cool,” Lishman try to be a good person.” myself [than] I think I could said. “Being a senior now, havDilworth, the team’s cen- have ever imagined if I wasn’t in ing that three years under my ter who hails from nearby this program or at this school.” belt, and being able to take [new Thousand Oaks, also earned As her final season begins players] under my wing … and All-American honorable men- and she looks ahead to putting set that standard for them.” tion honors after a stellar 2018 her degree in Media Production Lishman also has some extra season in which he scored 51 to good use, Stenberg’s plan on knowledge to share with her goals on 96 shots. the field is simple. teammates in 2019, after earnHowever, he said he has no “My personal goals [are] just ing a place on the roster of the intention for seeking a repeat of enjoying one last year of socUSA Volleyball Collegiate Na- the honor in 2019. cer and just leaving with no retional Team this summer.

“I personally don’t have any grets,” Stenberg said.

The rigorous program while personal accolades, or anything With six goals and six assists training at the USA Volleyball like that, that I want to accom- in three years, Stenberg doesn’t National Team Center in Ana- plish,” Dilworth said. “The put up massive numbers, but heim was a valuable experience things that I’m really focusing her calm presence will provide for her. on this year are having the most stability for a team that lost sev“We had two practices a day,” fun I can possibly have, en- eral key figures from an 11-win Lishman said. “It was a lot of joying the time with my guys, 2018 roster. volleyball, but it was super cool playing water polo ... and just Two graduating seniors, to be next to the actual senior making the most out of this ex- Michelle Maemone and Hainational team to watch their perience that I can.” ley Harbison, were drafted to practice.”

As for his team, Dilworth has the National Women’s Soccer Now that she and her fellow high expectations.

League. Defending WCC GoalWaves have endured “double The 2018 Waves Water Polo keeper of the Year Brielle Preece days” of practices prior to the squad had compiled a solid also graduated. start of school, the team turns campaign, only for the Wool“It is a young team, but we its attention to its season-open- sey Fire to derail their chanc- did return a lot of girls, which ing tournament in Denton, Tex- es. The fire caused the Golden made this whole process of as, beginning Aug. 30.

Coast Conference (GCC) to move preseason [a] really easy and All-WCC setter Blossom Sato its championship tournament nice transition,” Stenberg said. graduated, but Sato remained from Malibu to Long Beach, and “As for leading this group, they in Malibu as a volunteer assis- Pepperdine fell to Long Beach make it really easy.” tant coach, and the other core State in the semifinals.

A year after finishing third in members of the 2018 team are This year, the GCC Tourna- the WCC yet falling short of an returning. ment will return to Malibu.

NCAA Tournament selection, “We’re just excited to get “Everybody’s ready to win 22nd-year Head Coach Tim after it this season and then that GCC title,” Dilworth said. Ward has reloaded the roster go even further in the [NCAA] “And we feel that we can, espe- and put together another tough Tournament,” Lishman said. cially with it being at our home schedule.

“That’s our team goal.” pool.”

“Last year was quite a bumAs Lishman rewrites the PepDilworth cited the team’s bal- mer not to make the [NCAA perdine record books — she is ance of young freshmen and Tournament],” Stenberg said. “I currently third in career digs — older, experienced players as a think this year, it’s more so just during her final season, her fo- strength. focusing on the process of it all Courtesy of Pepperdine cus will not be on the numbers.

“Everybody is superAthletics moti- and then, bit by bit, we know

that if we focus on that, we’ll get to where we want to be.”

Frantal said. “With Waves Leadership Council [WLC], it’s like community outreach, which Bela Garcia-Arce, Women’s is amazing, [to] get involved in and Sheridan Davis Cross Country the community, get involved in campus.”

A three-time captain for her In addition to his leadership high school team in the San Di- position in Athletics as the ego area, Bela Garcia-Arce had president of WLC, Frantal is an to remind herself what it was executive board member on the like to take command of a team. Student Philanthropy Council “[Being a captain] was this and the Pokémon Club. He is role I had buried down when I also currently founding a chapgot here as a freshman, when I ter of Step Ahead at Pepperdine, got to just be a teammate,” Gar- in which student-athletes will cia-Arce said. “It’s something coach autistic children.

I’ve resurrected in me.”

“It’s things that fill you up Pepperdine Women’s Cross rather than drain you,” FranCountry is one of the most un- tal, the senior Pepperdine Cross derfunded programs at the Country and Track captain, school. However, with Sylvia said.

Mosqueda as the new cross As a runner, Frantal came to country head coach and a tal- Pepperdine as somewhat of a ented freshman class, Gar- novice. As a child in a military cia-Arce saaid she looks forward family, Frantal spent time living to leading the team in 2019. all over the world, focusing his “I’m stoked to see a pack athletic talents on soccer and tighten up, and for us to come in not running competitively until as a really tight, strong group,” his junior year of high school.

Garcia-Arce said. “We’ve been “My freshman year [at Pepworking toward that the pastAthletics perdine], and I ran,Calvin like, 27:15 [over Courtesy of Pepperdine Wood few years.” the eight kilometer race disThough Garcia-Arce studied tance], which is not anything to abroad in Buenos Aires during write home about,” Frantal said. her sophomore track season in “I’m hoping this season, obvi2018, she and her friends in her ously to be top three [or] four class rejoined the team immedi- [on the team], contributing, but ately for their junior cross coun- time-wise, I’m hoping to go lowtry season. er twenty-fours, maybe 24:20.”

“For me, [running cross Frantal’s personal best 8K country and track] has been a time of 25:15 in 2018 placed huge part of my Pepperdine ex- him 10th on the Pepperdine perience,” Garcia-Arce, a 2019 all-time list, and he broke 15 Arthur Ashe Jr. Sports Schol- minutes over the 5000 mear, said. “I’ve made such good ter distance for the first time friends; all my best friends are (14:59.03) during the 2019 on the team … It’s really helped track season. me balance my college career As much as Frantal has [and] maintain a healthy life- grown as a runner over his three style and also a very competi- years, so too has the Pepperdine tive, ambitious lifestyle.” running program.

Garcia-Arce is joined by fel“The progress that we’ve low seniors — and best friends made since I was a freshman — — Tatum Rask, Cori Persinger myself and every other runner and Grace Palmer for her final — it’s actually been incredible,” season of Waves Cross Country. Frantal said. “We went from a She hopes to score points for team that doesn’t really have a team that has an exciting mix much to contribute to the conof talent, including junior star ference to a team that is fightAbbey Meck and upstart fresh- ing some of the top dogs.” man Skyler Danley.

The 2018 Men’s Cross Coun“I just really want to be con- try team earned a top 15 ranksistent [and] injury-free,” Gar- ing in the NCAA West Region cia-Arce said. “I want to stay for the first time in school histohealthy, be able to contribute, ry. Frantal and a strong, young be in that top five scoring and group look to match and exceed just making the team faster.” the recent success.

Behind new leaders like Gar“We did lose our top two runcia-Arce and Mosqueda, the ners, which is unfortunate, but Waves look to build on their we got some good freshman tal34th-place finish at the 2018 ent and some fantastic returnNCAA West Regional meet, ers,” Frantal said. “I think we’re their best since 2014. going into this season with the “I’ve had fun so far,” Gar- goal of winning every race leadcia-Arce said of the beginning ing into [the] Santa Clara [Bronof her senior season as captain. co Invitational] and then con“It happened so fast.” ferences and regionals.”

The Waves open Frantal’s fiJalen Frantal, Men’s Cross nal cross country season Aug. Country 31 at the Mark Covert Classic in Brea, which Cal State Fullerton Jalen Frantal holds titles like hosts. “founder,” “president” and “ex“I’m just really looking forecutive board member,” but he ward to seeing how things go, doesn’t feel like he is overbur- making the most of it,” Frantal dened. said.

“It’s fun stuff that I do; it’s not like I have all these responsibilities and I have to get them done,” K AR L .W INTER @PEPPER DINE.EDU

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SPORTS

Women’s Soccer starts off season with a shutout aust in hall staf f writ e r Pepperdine Women’s Soccer opened the season with a 3-0 victory versus the University of California, Riverside. Twenty different Waves played throughout the game as Pepperdine won their home opener for the 11th straight year.

The first 30 minutes of the game were a defensive battle as both teams were competitive and traded offensive surges, which each defense quickly dismantled. The first goal didn’t come until the 38th minute when there was

a scrum near the UC Riverside goal and goalkeeper Allie Bailey nudged the ball into the net for an own goal.

As the half came to a close, sophomore midfielder Madi Cook streaked down the field and passed the ball to the left side and set up junior midfielder Brie Welch for the first offensive goal of the season at the 44th minute.

“I saw that Madi [Cook] had some space going down the field,” Welch said. “Coach always tells me to just live on the line and go for it. I saw the opportunity to spin and I put it in the corner.”

Coach Tim Ward was happy to see his team score a goal

Fresh Legs | Freshman Alex Hobbs sees some action against UC Riverside on Thursday, as she chases down an airborne ball in her first-ever collegiate game.

that close to the end of the half.

“The second goal was so pleasing because of the timing of it,” Ward said. “There was a minute left in the half before we got it to the corner, and Madi played a great ball and got it into Brie [Welch].

That was a special moment.”

Redshirt freshman defender Olivia Packer sat out last season with shin splints. As a former Gatorade Player of the Year in Nevada, Packer was glad to get back on the field and record one steal in 53 minutes.

“It was so great — best feeling ever to get back out there,” Packer said. “Last year was tough, but being on the field today has been so fun, especially with the team around me.”

Another young defender that contributed with one of the five steals for Pepperdine was sophomore Trinity Watson. Watson played in 18 of 20 games last year as a freshman and looks to have a significant sophomore outing.

Watson said she felt the victory is a preview of many more to come this season.

“We came out really strong,” Watson said. “It gives us such a positive outlook on the rest of the season. We’re a pretty young team and have so much to learn and grow from after this first game.”

In the second half, the Waves continued to attack on offense, and freshman midfielder Shelby Little picked up her first goal of her career

Photos by Austin Hall Immediate Impact | Freshman Shelby Little fights for possession Thursday. Little played her first collegiate game and scored a goal in the 68th minute. off an assist from junior midfielder Joelle Anderson. It was the last score of the game.

Ward said he was pleased with his team’s performance but is ready to improve further.

“I’m very happy with the result,” Ward said. “What I told the girls after the game is that anytime you win three-zero and still feel that there is a lot to improve on, you’re in a good spot. We had some early season jitters but got out of the gates and played well.”

This Pepperdine team is replacing seven seniors from last season, two of which were drafted into the National

Women’s Soccer League. Watson said she is optimistic for this year’s team as they look to replace the experience of former players.

“When the seniors left, their culture left too,” Watson said. “This team is building a new culture, and we’re off to a strong start with that. We don’t have as many players to look up to, but our principles and discipline is the same, and that’s really going to help us.”

The Waves are back at home Sunday, Aug. 25 at 1 p.m., versus the Texas A&M Aggies.

AUSTIN.HAL L @PEPPER DINE.EDU

Fall sports look ahead to their biggest matchups ky l e m c cabe spor ts ed itor

Five Pepperdine sports play in the fall season: Women’s Soccer, Men’s Water Polo, Women’s Volleyball and both Men’s and Women’s Cross Country. As their seasons approach, each team has a few key matchups circled on their calendars. Here are a few highlights.

Women’s Soccer The Waves face Stanford at Tari Frahm Rokus Field on Sept. 13. Last year the Cardinals went 21-1-2 overall, their only loss coming in the semifinals of the Women’s College Cup. Stanford finished the regular season ranked No. 1.

Their success last season makes them one of the toughest opponents on Pepperdine’s schedule this fall.

Santa Clara comes to Malibu on Oct. 23. This game features a Broncos team that went 17-3-2, finished the year ranked No. 12 and reached the second round of the Women’s College Cup. Santa Clara is also in the West Coast Conference with Pepperdine, and the game will be broadcast on ESPNU. Men’s Water Polo University of Southern California, the defending NCAA Men’s Wa-

ter Polo champions, visit Raleigh Runnels Memorial Pool on Oct. 19. USC amassed a record of 30-3 last season, only losing to Stanford, University of California, Berkeley and University of California, Los Angeles.

The Waves are 0-13 against USC in the past decade. USC only has 36 losses during that time span, along with six national championships and 10 trips to the national title game. The Trojans went 29-0 in 2012 en route to their fifth consecutive championship.

Women’s Volleyball

Pepperdine hosts the Pepperdine Asics Classic tournament on Sept. 13 and 14. Pittsburgh, Utah and California Polytechnic all come to Pepperdine for the second of two home tournaments for the Waves this season. All three teams reached the NCAA tournament last year. Utah and Pittsburgh made it to the second round, while Cal Poly lost in the first round.

“At least in my time here, and maybe all time here, this might be the deepest tournament we’ve ever had,” Head Coach Scott Wong said.

“We’re excited to play at home in front of the fans but also to see how our girls respond to some really good competition.”

The 2018 Asics Classic

featured California State University, Northridge; University of North Texas and University of Idaho. Wong believes his current team needs better competition.

“I think this year, we’re ready for more,” Wong said. “We played some good teams last year, but there are some great teams this year.”

Men’s and Women’s Cross Country Cross Country runs in the West Coast Conference Championships on Nov. 1. Loyola Marymount University is hosting the WCC Cross Country Championships at Woodley Lakes Golf Course in Van Nuys, CA. The men’s team finished No. 15 in the NCAA West Region last year — their best mark in program history. Nine runners earned spots in the top 15 on the school’s 8,000 meter record list.

The women’s team had their best regional finish since 2014 at No. 34.

The WCC Championships is the first postseason meet for the Waves and the closest meet to campus since the Pepperdine Invitational in 2017.

All team schedules are available online at pepperdinewaves.com.

File Photo Wet ‘n’ Wild | The Waves huddle during a home game against UC Santa Barbara in 2018. They will host USC at home this year Oct. 19.

Photos Courtesy of Pepperdine Athletics

File Photo KY L E . J. MCCA B E @P E P P E RD I N E . E D U

Waves Up | Volleyball players hand out high fives at the 2018 NCAA Tournament. The Waves look to go further in the tournament this year.