Pipe Dream Orientation Issue 2013

Orientation Guide 2013

PIPE DREAM Sumer 2013 | Binghamton University | www.bupipedream.com | Vol. LXXXIV

Building a better BU

Cuomo pitches tax free plan to campus Stenger, students react to NY governor's strategy to create jobs James Galloway Staff Writer

Kendall Loh/Photo Editor

A view of the ongoing construction at the University Union Food Court. While the project is now slated for completion in January 2014, Binghamton University’s physical facilities department had to push back the projected completion date from this August, stating the January date is a more “realistic” timetable.

Campus construction will continue at Union, Dickinson Community According to Karen Fennie, communications specialist in physical facilities, the various construction projects across After a year of Binghamton campus are moving forward well.

University students being without Initially, the University’s an on-campus retail dining center, physical facilities department physical facilities predicted that the planned for the project to be New University Union Food Court finished by this August. Last fall, will be completed in early 2014.

Peter Napolitano, director of

Davina Bhandari Assistant News Editor

From undeclared to career-ready

auxiliary services, slated a more “realistic” completion for January 2014.

In the meantime, students have been without the old Food Court, which featured retailers like Sbarro and Taco Bell.

Concurrently, construction is being done on the north portion of the University Union. Fennie

said that this project should also see its end in early 2014.

According to Fennie, the north Union project will include building an atrium, and much of the foundation for the project has already been completed.

Fennie explained that roof work,

See BUILD Page 4

To bolster upstate New York’s economy, including Binghamton’s, Governor Andrew Cuomo hopes to draw new businesses to the area by getting rid of their taxes.

Cuomo announced his plans for Tax-Free NY, a piece of legislation that would give tax-exempt status to certain start-ups near SUNY schools, in the Mandela Room in late May. The vast majority of SUNY campuses are upstate.

Eligible businesses, Cuomo said, would have to pay no taxes for 10 years. This includes no property tax, no sales tax, no business tax and no income tax for employees earning less than $200,000.

“What do I mean by tax-free? I mean tax-free,” Cuomo said. “No games, no gimmicks. 100 percent tax-free.”

Cuomo said the legislation could renew the long-stagnant upstate economy by encouraging start-ups, which shy away from New York’s high-tax climate, to partner with universities to commercialize research.

Binghamton University President Harvey Stenger said TaxFree NY has the potential to be the biggest change to higher education he’s ever seen.

“If used properly it could

have a very large positive impact on our local economy,” Stenger wrote in an email to Pipe Dream.

“One impact that it could provide is a great source of jobs for our students while in school and after graduation.”

Although Stenger does not know if the Southern Tier High Technology Incubator, a multimillion dollar project headed in large part by Stenger to house and foster high-tech start-ups in the area, will qualify for tax-free designation, he said he remains hopeful.

“As the legislation is debated and finalized, I will follow it closely to see how it can and should be utilized by Binghamton University,” he wrote.

Yet Cuomo’s proposal has been criticized in the state legislature as unfair to preexisting businesses.

Assemblywoman Donna Lupardo of the 123rd Assembly district, which encompasses the University, said she supports the general idea of Tax-Free NY, but is “troubled” by the fact that employees of qualifying businesses would pay no income tax.

“It could create a competitive disadvantage for our already existing companies,” Lupardo said in a statement for Pipe Dream.

See GOV Page 4

Dean of students takes on college nightlife

Thompson Harpur Advising helps with makes trek Downtown picking classes, major, job on weekends event but this time instead of Joseph Hawthorne just the general advising office, it’s also the professional school advising representatives as For many students, creating a well as faculty representative schedule can be a difficult process; and all of the different Harpur students must look for a balanced departments,” Serbonich said. workload, useful classes and of course, time to sleep in.

Every semester, students from every school at Binghamton University come to Harpur Academic Advising for professional help with mapping out their college careers.

“Technically there are over a thousand students per advisor, and while we don’t get that many, our wait room fills up during pre-registration,” said Ashley Serbonich, an academic advisor for Harpur College of Arts and — Lawrence Greenfield Director of academic advising Sciences.

Advisors hold walk-in hours for students as well as special While the weeks before programs aimed specifically at programming are busy at the teaching students the ins and outs advising offices, Lawrence of scheduling. The “Spring Into Greenfield, director of academic Advising” program, for example, advising, said year-round services offers extended walk-in hours. are available to students.

“We also help do the Academic “We make ourselves available Advising and Scheduling Fest on a walk-in basis and on a with the Discovery Center. It’s essentially another scheduling See ADVISE Page 4

Staff Writer

“We make ourselves available on a walk-in basis and on a regular appointment basis”

James Galloway Staff Writer Standing outside the bars on State Street, wearing a green wig and holding an armful of flip flops, Dean of Students April Thompson is hard to miss.

Last year, Thompson frequently spent her Saturday nights in Downtown Binghamton passing out flip flops, snacks and bottled water to students outside the bars, especially to students who looked as though they needed help.

“I’m always flattered and surprised when people don’t expect to see the dean doing things like that, but that isn’t why I do it,” Thompson said.

“What it is, though, is [me] trying to earn the trust and respect of my students.”

In 2012, a ride-along on Harpur’s Ferry, Binghamton University’s student-run ambulance, showed Thompson that water and appropriate shoes are important Downtown,

Kendall Loh/Photo Editor

Dean of Students April Thompson hands out flip flops, snacks and bottled water to students outside the bars on Halloween weekend of last year. Thompson recently arrived in Binghamton from Dartmouth College, where she worked for 11 years.

but relatively scarce.

“Students would call Harpur’s Ferry for broken and sprained ankles, which gave me a chance to see how dangerous it is Downtown, and how important it is to stay hydrated,” she said. “So, yes, I started taking water and flip flops Downtown on weekends.”

She said her number one goal Downtown is to keep students safe, not to get them

in trouble.

“I care, I don’t want students to get hurt because of alcohol,” Thompson said. “Drinking water is a really easy and good habit to get into, and I want to be part of the solution, not the problem.”

Thompson added that she dyes her hair green when she’s Downtown to be noticeable.

See DOS Page 4

April Thompson in brief

Before coming to Binghamton, Thompson worked for 11 years at Dartmouth College She has gone on night rides with Harpur's Ferry and UPD She hands out green flip-flops and water bottles to inebriated students on State Street

NEWS

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Who's Who?

www.bupipedream.com | Summer 2013

Feeling a little lost and confused now that you’re here at Binghamton University? Don’t worry, Pipe Dream’s got your back. We’ve compiled a list of notable people from around campus and around town who may cross your path over the next few years — as well as a few you should probably try to avoid.

At Binghamton U

Harvey Stenger

Eric Larson

Binghamton University President

Student Association President Larson was last year’s SA vice president of finance, as well as the chief financial officer for the BU bus system, Off-Campus College Transport (OCCT).

He has received praise for running the VPF office more efficiently than it had been in years and will be returning to the SA e-board this year as the president. With his golden blond hair and stately demeanor, Eric is approachable yet respectable, and he’s definitely someone you should know.

In November 2011, Harvey Stenger was named Binghamton University’s new president. Stenger has been warmly received by the staff and student body, making frequent appearances at student events and even inviting students to go on morning runs with him. Stenger’s most recent endeavor, his Road Map for Success, outlines his plans and proposals to turn Binghamton into the premier public university of the 21st century. We’re definitely on our way, and Stenger is leading us there.

Milton Chester

Donald Nieman

Larry Shea

Director of Student Conduct

Provost

Owner, Tom & Marty’s

Milton Chester is a great man to spot on campus, but one you don’t want to sit down with face-to-face, because that means you’re actually in trouble. Chester serves as the director of student conduct, which means he’s the administrator you’ll have to answer to if your resident assistant comes knocking.

The former dean of students and history professor was named provost last year. He helps launch fellowships and programs to better the University academically and has helped to develop the Liberal Arts to Career Externship program.

Tommy Dempsey

Judy Jacyna

Head Coach, Men’s Basketball

Library Information Desk

Dempsey is returning for his second year after a full basketball season and three wins under his belt. The men’s basketball team has not had a winning record since the fall 2009 scandal, but Dempsy hopes to “turn the page” for the 2013-14 campaign. For a full interview with Dempsey, turn to page 12.

No matter how heavy the workload or stressful the week, Judy lights up Glenn G. Bartle Library with her warm greeting and friendly smile. Judy also offers students general campus information from her desk, which is typically laden with fresh flowers and campus maps.

Larry and his brother Michael co-own one of State Street’s oldest and most beloved bars, Tom & Marty’s. Larry can always be found there, spinning the shot wheel and tweeting about ’90s R&B, Beefaroni and his loyal patrons, who are essentially family.

Ryan Vaughan English Professor Vaughan is our legendary humor professor, and if you aren’t one of the chosen ones lucky enough to grab a spot for his classes, you can now check him out on BTV. His new show, Pizza with Vaughan, began its first season in the spring.

Rasa Von Werder

Peter Napolitano

Brian Rose

1968 Playboy Miss Nude Universe

Director of Auxiliary Services

Vice President for Student Affairs

From her rumored fling with Arnold Schwarzenegger to her “Stripping for God” campaign, Von Werder had been around the block before settling down on a block with which most BU students are familiar: our very own State Street.

She may have a few years behind her, but you can catch Von Werder on the weekends living it up in Downtown Binghamton.

Former stripper, current community member, forever Binghamton sensation.

This department oversees all dining and vendor services, as well as the Buc$ system.

Whenever you swipe your card in the dining hall or at a vending machine, Napolitano is the man behind the system.

Rose is involved in every aspect of student life, whether projecting student enrollment or anticipated housing need. He acts as a liaison between the University and the Student Association, and he gives formal University opinions and statements following breaking news.

Sumer 2013 | www.bupipedream.com

BRIEFS

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California Lovin'

In other words “It took a lot of planning to plan the plan” — Harvey Stenger The Binghamton University president, during the fall 2012 kickoff to his "Roadmap to Success." For more details on Stenger's Roadmap, as well as continuing updates on the plan, visit www.bupipedream.com, or like us on Facebook.

Questions?

Comments? Concerns?

Email

manager@bupipedream.com or editor@bupipedream.com

Daniel O'Connor/Photo Editor

SAN JOSE, Calif. — President Stenger speaks to alumni, students and faculty in San Jose on June 20th. The reception, organized by the BU Alumni Association and the Watson School, drew over 70 Bay area alumni and explained President Stenger's vision and focus for the University.

Events to look out for University Fest On Saturday of Welcome Back Weekend, representatives from the over 400 student groups on campus set up tables to advertise and recruit members. The day’s festivities also include carnival-type rides and food.

Homecoming Weekend Alumni return to Binghamton University as current and former students cheer on the Bearcats in our annual homecoming soccer game.

Family Weekend Campus is suddenly filled with parents, grandparents and children of all ages as BU welcomes families for the weekend. Dormitory communities and campus organizations host programs for parents and families.

Halloween It’s a pretty big deal at BU. You’ll see.

Frost Fest The Student Association hosts a mid-winter festival filled with food, music and winterthemed events like indoor ice skating and a visit from a team of sled dogs.

Parade Day St. Patrick’s Day hits Binghamton a few weeks early with the annual Parade Day celebration Downtown. Students join the community for a

April Fool’s Day

parade and day-long tribute to Irish heritage.

Keep an eye out for Pipe Bomb, the annual April Fool’s Day edition of Pipe Dream.

Consider it your college version of The Onion, except a frightening amount of students don’t realize it’s a joke.

Bar Crawl Students get rowdy on State Street as they kiss Binghamton goodbye for the summer.

stabilizing: Girl power

MVP: Dan O'Connor

A month long production :destabilizing

www.bupipedream.com | Summer 2013

NEWS

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Get ahead on job, internship hunt Greek Life: Don't rush to conclusions Career Development Center hosts student programs System varies from hazing scandals to charity events Rachel Bluth News Editor Greek life at Binghamton University has had a tumultuous few years. After a damning frontpage article in The New York Times last year regarding hazing allegations that temporarily stopped all pledging activities on campus, Greek organizations have been attempting to clean up and refine their image.

However, at the end of the spring 2013 semester, six fraternities were sanctioned by the Office of Greek Life. Alpha Chi Rho (AXP) and Zeta Beta Tau (ZBT) each had their charter suspended until 2018, and Delta Chi, Nu Alpha Phi and Pi Lambda Phi also had disciplinary action taken against them, though to a lesser degree.

University administration, wary of the worsening reputation of Binghamton’s Greek life, took action to prevent further incidents. Administrators hired a national consultant team last year that published a report of their assessment of Greek life on campus.

“What we’re going to do is to

establish some standards that organizations must meet to be recognized by the University,” Rose said at an open forum in February, previewing the suspensions that rounded out last semester. “We’re going to lose a couple of organizations this year, and I expect that there will continue to be some shake-out in terms of other organizations who aren’t going to be prepared to meet our standards.”

The Greek Life Review Team, headed by Lloyd Howe, associate vice president for student affairs, released a 26-page report last winter with recommendations on how to improve the status of Greek organizations on campus, including cracking down on firstsemester pledging.

Despite a record of highprofile controversies, Greek life at Binghamton continues to host a number of charity and philanthropic events throughout the year which have become longstanding campus traditions, including the Miss Aphrodite competition that happens every spring and the Greek God competition that occurs during homecoming weekend.

Harpur Advising helps BU schedule ADVISE continued from Page 1 regular appointment basis. We also do student outreach where we work with RAs (resident assistants) or the Discovery Center, and we go out to provide services in the residence halls,” he said. “We have our website that is used very actively, and believe it or not, we have reason to believe that there are individuals who aren’t even at Binghamton who make use of that website.”

Greenfield also explained how advising works with University faculty to help students make the best planning decisions.

“We have a dual advising structure in Harpur; the faculty make up a large part of that structure, and connecting with the faculty cannot be underestimated a valuable resource,” Greenfield said. “Connecting with the department representatives, who in almost every instance are faculty members, is extremely important.”

Advisors help students put together not only a class schedule, but also a career plan.

“We do a career series called ‘Liberal Arts to….’ We have liberal arts to business, health communication and education. If students are thinking of going in

one of those directions, but they’re not quite sure what it entails, we go over how to best prepare yourself as a student,” Serbonich said.

However, Serbonich advised incoming freshmen not to worry too much about deciding on a career path or major quickly.

“A lot people think their friends already have a major or career path already set out, but a majority of cases that’s not true, a lot of freshmen are undecided,” she said. “In the first year we want to emphasize exploration, taking courses they may have not had a chance to take in high school. Not every particular thing has to go toward a major requirement.”

Some students find one advisor to be particularly useful and meet with him or her on a regular basis.

Sam Meadows, a sophomore majoring in integrative neuroscience, described her experience with pre-med advisor Michelle Jones.

“I’ve met with her at least three or four times this year. She’s really easy to talk to and really flexible if you make an appointment.

I’ve talked to her for like an hour straight and she really knows her stuff,” Meadows said. “She is literally my favorite woman on campus.”

Joseph Hawthorne Staff Writer For some college students, their career is a faraway concept. But for Bill McCarthy, associate director of Binghamton University’s Career Development Center, their career plans have already begun.

“Whenever I’m in front of orientation students, I tell them, ‘Welcome to Binghamton.

Congratulations on getting into a really good school. Your career has just started.’”

The Career Development Center, or CDC, hosts programs and advises students who are seeking outside employment or preparing for a career after college. Some of the CDC’s biggest events include the Job and Internship Fair, Grad Day and Law Day. “We get a lot of representatives from schools and companies who come to meet with students,”

McCarthy said. “Even as freshmen, students can come to the Job and Internship Fair to see how students are dressed and see what a job fair looks like.”

McCarthy pointed out that during each term, students have regular chances to get advice from counselors, work on their resumes and practice their interview skills.

“We personally help lots of students every day with their resumes, we offer reference guides for career planning, and we have software to post any job or internship that comes through here,” he said. “Our ‘e-recruiting’ site helps us keep track of all the professional opportunities available to students during the year.”

McCarthy also recommended working for an organization outside of campus, but getting class credit for it through the CDC Internship (CDCI) program.

“Students get credit for one

class a week, but they’re really spending most of their time with the organization,” he said. “It’s a great experience that every student should try because every week you get to interact with people in your class and talk about the experiences at different places.”

Students like Itai Ferber, a sophomore majoring in computer science, use the CDC when applying for jobs and internships.

“It was very simple, I came in to see a counselor on call. In 10, 15 minutes we talked about my resume and job application, and she gave me useful feedback,” Ferber said.

McCarthy encouraged freshmen to start trying new extracurriculars once they settled on campus.

“Your education is core, but getting out is also vital. If you work for the newspaper, for instance, you can leverage

“It’s a great experience that every student should try because every week you get to interact with people in your class” — Bill McCarthy Associate director of the CDC

that for the next year,” he said.

“Whatever you do, whether it’s in communication or something else, the more experiences and education you have, the more they can build on each other.”

Students lend a hand through CCE Center connects volunteers with the community Joseph Hawthorne Staff Writer For those looking to lend a hand to the community, the Center for Civic Engagement (CCE) provides volunteer opportunities to Binghamton University students.

Allison Alden, director of the CCE, explained the aim of the organization as a resource for students looking to get involved with the wider Binghamton community.

“Our goal is to help students make good connections with community organizations that need volunteer help,” she said. “This can be on a local, regional or national level.”

Christie Zwahlen, community engagement coordinator of the CCE, explained the wide range of possibilities for students looking to be involved.

“It could be a one-time event, like a non-profit organization is having a big

fundraiser and they need 15 students to help staff the event. It could be something more long-term and in-depth, like a mentoring program where there’s a weekly commitment, or it could be something like an internship.

There’s no limit, basically, on what the experience can be as long as it benefits the public in some way,” she said.

Zwahlen also spoke about student involvement surrounding Hurricane Sandy last fall.

“We had SA (Student Association) groups and class and individual students who really took it upon themselves to figure out ways they could help,” Zwahlen said. “About a week after the disaster hit, we had a website up with information about organizations that needed money, that needed food and water and different types of resource. We tried to provide students an outlet for

helping.”

Besides Sandy relief efforts, the CCE has regularly used social media, newsletters and outreach events to pair students that want to help with the groups that need them.

“Through our website, we have our service listings database. You can search for all different kinds of opportunities or categories,” Zwahlen said.

Zwahlen said students interested in a certain topic, like the environment, for example, can type that into their search. Students can also search by the days of the week they are available to volunteer and can sign up for the CCE’s weekly newsletter for information about opportunities as well as scholarships and awards related to community engagement.

According to Alden, students are attracted to the

CCE by the opportunity to help the local community.

“I’m always amazed by the creativity and energy of new students. They have wonderful ideas and are really anxious to do things in the community,” she said. “In general, I think those student are more successful when they graduate but many of them also find that they don’t want to leave the local area.”

Gabi Schiller, a freshman in both the Decker School of Nursing and the College of Community and Public Affairs, praised the CCE’s outreach efforts.

“They send out an email every week that’s really informative. It’s important to take advantage of those because once you volunteer you have a greater awareness of the community you’re living in,” she said. “I also got a free T-shirt, and that was pretty awesome.”

Thompson helps out State Street DOS continued from Page 1 “I want people who need help to be able to find me easily,” she said, joking that standing out was a challenge on Halloween. “Everybody has dyed hair on Halloween.”

For the upcoming school year, Thompson bought flip flops with “Dean of Students” written on the heel, and she plans to pass them out, rain or

shine, during the semester — as long as it’s not snowing.

“I am kind of a weenie about the cold,” she said. “I don’t go when it’s below zero; it’s too cold for me.”

Thompson, who took over as dean in summer 2012, said working with students is the best part of her job.

“I love what I do. I love spending time with students,” she said. “It doesn’t really feel like work.”

Thompson, a graduate of the University of Arkansas, came to Binghamton from Dartmouth College, where she had worked for 11 years, eventually becoming the school’s associate dean of the college for campus life and director of judicial affairs.

“The thing that was the hardest for me was the position took time away from me with students,” she said. “So I left Dartmouth because I wanted

a job that allowed me some more time with students.”

As dean of students, Thompson has tried to maximize her time with students through office hours every Tuesday and on-campus events she runs with her “Dean’s Team” of volunteer students.

“A lot of the work I do,” she said, “I do to help students be successful — in and out of the classroom.”

Campus construction continues Gov. Cuomo met by anti-frackers BUILD continued from Page 1 masonry and brickwork are being completed this summer. Interior work, such as placing studs and painting walls, is also in progress.

Dickinson Community was rebuilt for the coming school year as a part of the East Campus Housing project, with O’Connor, Johnson and Digman residential halls opening in August. Rafuse will open in January 2014.

Dickinson will also see significant changes with the addition of classrooms. Each will seat 36 students, designed to meet demands for greater classroom

space on campus.

“Construction is well under way there,” said Fennie, predicting completion for spring 2014.

This summer, workers will focus on landscaping and building recreational fields in Dickinson.

Erin McArdle, a junior in the Decker School of Nursing, is disappointed by the construction thus far.

“I’ve been hearing a lot of dates,” McArdle said. “But it seems that they are never successfully met.

Construction is a huge hassle for those on campus. I like knowing that the University is progressing as a whole, but it’s hard not to grow

frustrated with the inconvenience that it creates.”

Karl Miller, a sophomore majoring in integrative neuroscience and future resident in the new Dickinson Community, said he is looking forward to seeing one project on campus come to an end.

“It will be nice to have that portion of campus free from construction work,” Miller said.

“Students like me will be able to enjoy the efforts. Hopefully the results will have made the wait worthwhile.”

GOV continued from Page 1 “I am also concerned about the impact on local services like the Vestal Volunteer Fire Company, which serves the campus. All of this is under discussion.”

Mallory Mecca, a senior double-majoring in sociology and economics who is writing an honors thesis about the militarization of the University, said Tax-Free NY’s focus on commercializing research unsettles her.

“Although this bill presents clear economic benefits for both the university and the surrounding communities, the

purpose of a university is not necessarily to ‘create jobs’ for the state,” she said. “A university is meant for promoting critical analysis, questioning and free thought. It is important to consider how these goals may be compromised in focusing on using the university as an engine for economic growth.”

Some attendees of Cuomo’s talk at BU were more concerned with another controversial issue affecting upstate New York.

Nearly 100 protesters, both students and community members, greeted Cuomo’s arrival on campus by standing in the Tillman Lobby with anti-

hydraulic fracturing signs.

Isaac Silberman-Gorn, a 2011 graduate from BU, organized the protest on behalf of Citizen Action of New York, a grassroots activist organization for which he works.

“We’re here because we don’t want to see fracking happen at our lawn,” Silberman-Gorn said at the protest. “Governor Cuomo has the decision firmly on his shoulders.”

Editor's Note: Mallory Mecca, who works for Pipe Dream's delivery team, was not involved in the writing or publication of this article.

RELEASE Orientation Issue

Orientation Guide 2013

Release’s Five Steps to Your Perfect Orientation 1. Ask questions: Orientation is a lot to take in, so even if you think you’re well versed in all Binghamton University has to offer, be ready to ask a lot of questions.

No question is too small or too outrageous to ask, so don’t be afraid of looking foolish. One of the best things about orientation is the amount of people at your disposal who have been trained specifically to answer your questions, so take advantage of this. And remember, your orientation advisors are students just like you. Don’t be intimidated, and feel free to ask about social life on and off campus, or even what math gen-ed will get you an easy A.

4. Enjoy yourself: It’s okay to be nervous at orientation, but try your best to relax and enjoy yourself. Even though it’s a little frightening that high school is actually over, try to remind yourself that this is the beginning of the best years of your life. The real stress won’t start until at least the second week of school, so take this time to think about the greatness that lies ahead. Stay up late, do something out of the ordinary, and seize every opportunity you have to learn about BU before you get here in the fall. Welcome to the most stressful, fun and life-changing years of your life. We’re excited to have you.

5. Talk to someone you don’t know: This one is easy because it’s likely that at orientation, you barely know anyone — unless you get roomed with someone you’ve known since you were two (trust us, it happens).

Getting to know people at orientation isn’t necessarily about making lifelong friends, but it will at least help prepare you for talking to the people you have to live with for the next year in the fall. But seriously, what is college about if it isn’t for meeting new people and new experiences? This is your first chance to expose yourself to people and ideas you may have never met otherwise, so try to make the most of it.

2. Explore campus: While it may seem like time is tight during orientation, try to set aside some time to take a walk around campus. Whether it’s alone or with a friend, taking a stroll around the brain is a great way to get a feel for the place where you’ll be spending most of your time for (at least) the next four years. Discover some cool shortcuts, check out the buildings you might have class in, or take a look around the community you’ll be living in next year. The first week of school can be a little overwhelming, so getting to know the campus now will help make the process a little less stressful. Plus, it’s fun to discover BU’s little gems, like the outdoor courtyard by Jazzman’s, the view of Binghamton from Appalachian Dining Hall and The Object in the former Dickinson Community.

3. It’s okay to be clueless: Being surrounded by your peers can be quite intimidating. Some of them seem so certain about what they want to do. In fact, almost a majority do. You talk to new people and already you know their aspirations. The girl to your left wants to be a Biology major, and the guy sitting in front of you is certain he wants to go to Law School. Don’t worry, if this isn’t you, it’s okay. The most popular freshman major is Undecided, and the majority of freshman later change their minds throughout college. That’s just statistics. Exploring a multitude of options gives you more certainty of your final choice. Don’t sweat it. Have you ever taken an anthropology course before? Try it, why not? Ahh college!!!

6. Orientation doesn’t matter: You probably have a lot of thoughts running through your mind at this point: who are these weird people talking to me? Why is that boy/girl staring at me? Do I need to go to this infosession? Should I have been listening to that? Where am I? Who am I? It is perfectly natural to have conflicted feelings as you are both extremely nervous and excited.

The first thing you need to know is that you shouldn’t expect your college experience to reflect your time at orientation. Yes, you stay in a dorm with a randomly assigned roommate for a day and yes you can stay up as late as you want because your parents aren’t around (or just because you feel like it). However, there are many elements missing from orientation that are crucial in forming your life at college. The atmosphere at orientation, while inviting and welcoming, should not be a prime indicator of how your four years will pan out.

7. Chill about registration: Stay as cool, calm, and collected as you possibly can even though you freaking out about registration. While it is true that registration is stressful as you are short for time, stuffed in a room with other anxious freshmen, and you will probably be closed out of all four classes you want to take, it’s no big deal. By the time fall rolls around, you may have completely changed your mind about what courses you want to enroll in. If you want to change your schedule, you can. Additionally, if you are still upset about being closed out of a class, odds are that new spots will open up or you can petition to get into the class. It may not seem ideal, but being closed out of a class give you the opportunity to explore another. You have plenty of time to meet your requirements, do not worry. And don’t take it from the seniors graduating late, like, you’ll probably be fine.

Katie Kravat, Katie Shafsky and Michelle Quiles | Release

RELEASE

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www.bupipedream.com | Summer 2013

Local flavor: Binghamton's best restaurants To all incoming freshmen, proud parents, able-bodied grandparents, random cousins and the select few esteemed individuals here for June-July classes: congrats and welcome to summer at Binghamton University! We’re happy to have you. It’s a great time to get intimate with the Southern Tier, especially if you’re here for orientation. So if you’re looking for a place to eat with your parents, with new orientation friends or just alone (hey, orientation isn’t for everyone), then here’s where to go: By Darian Lusk | Release Editor Cortese

Burger Mondays

Cortese Restaurant is a gem of old-world Italy and one of Binghamton’s best-kept secrets. Located far into the hard streets of the east-hamtons at 118 Robinson Street, this is a spot for the adventurous family or friend group. But the 15-minute drive from campus is totally worth it. The pasta dishes are legendary, and the pizza is simply the best in the city. It’s sheet pizza done right, the way you always dreamed Nirchi’s could do it. At Cortese, they kill it every time. Might I recommend the tomato and cheese pie or the old fashioned hot pie and buffalo wings for the table? Pies start at $8.25 for eight slices and $5.50 for four, which gives you the option to mix and match. Cortese even has free WiFi for students looking for a summer study spot. (I know because I’ve studied there. It isn’t weird.) Bonus: Cortese is located behind Salvation Army, so stop in for some kitschy, semi-wearable summer threads on your way home!

If you’re looking for the best burger in the tri-cities area, Burger Mondays gets the job done any day of the week. The portions are like ridiculous, and everything on the menu is a hit. But with the oversized portions come oversized prices, making Burger Mondays a great family restaurant. Because if your parents are paying, who really cares? Other than your parents. And get ready to have an intense family-bonding session, because it takes around an hour to get served. Which means 60 minutes of talking to your mom about why you prefer cash to Buc$. More like Burger Tuesdays! Sigh. I’d request the inferno or the buffalo chicken sandwich. But that’s just me.

Location: 118 Robinson Street Hours: Mon - Wed: 11:30 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.

Thu - Sat: 11:30 a.m. – 11:00 p.m.

Sun: 12 p.m. – 9 p.m.

Price: $$ One-Word Review: Yes. Best Feature: Family-style Italian so good, the Godfather could’ve been shot here. The man AND the movie.

Worst Feature: You haven’t heard of it yet!

Location: 23 Henry Street Hours: Mon - Thu: 11:30 a.m. - 10:00 p.m.

Fri - Sat: 11:30 a.m. - 11:00 p.m.

Price: $$$ One-word review: Burgers.

Best Feature: The food is legit.

Worst Feature: The food takes a legit long time.

Side note: I eat at a lot of restaurants alone.

It’s not weird.

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Zona and Co Grille

Nezuntoz Café

Since Zona & Co. opened this January, the restaurant has quickly been gaining local street cred. Zona offers a modern twist on American, Southwestern and Mexican cuisine in the heart of Downtown Binghamton. With a transcendent selection of burgers, burritos and beer on tap, the restaurant is quickly becoming the toast of the town. I would gently recommend the mahi-mahi tacos and the burger sliders; both dishes serve as great contemporary takes on the classics. Pro tip: come for dinner, not lunch, because the menu is three times the size. Zona also has a full deck for outdoor seating and live bands, so summer is the perfect time to swing by.

Come for dinner, grab a few drinks and stay for the party, because Zona is open until 3 a.m. on the weekends.

Forget everything you know about local bagels, sandwiches and coffee, because Nezuntoz Café is here to save us all. Pronounced “knees-and-toes,” this neighborhood café is Binghamton’s best lunch spot and a summer obligation.

Upon entering, you’re met with a colored chalkboard menu complete with dozens of bagel and sandwich options. It’s Binghamton’s answer to Cornell’s Collegetown Bagels.

And between you and me, we do it better.

The Jalepeno hustle, Lox Times Squared and Buffalo Roam are mandatory. Nezuntoz looks like a TV show set, complete with lots of indoor and outdoor seating, and the Café takes Buc$ as an added bonus — I didn’t even realize people use Buc$ anymore! Apparently they do!

Location: 15 Hawley Street Hours: Mon: 4:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m.

Tue - Thu: 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 a.m.

Fri: 11:30 a.m. - 3:00 a.m.

Sat: 4:00 p.m. - 3:00 a.m.

Sun: 4:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

Price: $$$ One-Word Review: Patio.

Best Feature: Patio.

Worst Feature: Slightly expensive for college students, and we are on a budget here, after all. At Binghamton, happiness is a luxury we can barely afford.

Hours: Mon – Thu: 7 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Fri: 7 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Sat: 7 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Sun: 7 a.m. -4 p.m.

Price: $$ One-Word Review: Lunch.

Best Feature: Great sandwiches with great names.

Worst Feature: The homemade beverages aren’t worth it. Stick with coffee or something from the cooler, and you’ll be good to go.

Kendall Loh/Photo Editor

Photo Provided by Nezuntoz

From "Old School" to new hits, these blockbusters are "so college" College isn't always like the movies, but there are some must-sees for incoming freshmen Jacob Shamsian | Assistant Release Editor As an incoming freshman, most of your knowledge of college life comes from older siblings or the movies. And for those of us without siblings, it’s up to Hollywood. But wait — movies are nothing like real life.

You probably won’t get the girl in the end, and let’s face it, you will probably never wear a toga. Here are six college movies you need to watch before reality hits you.

1. “The Social Network” Before Mark Zuckerberg was a gazillionaire, he was a college student.

David Fincher’s brilliant and fictionalized account of Zuckerberg’s rise begins at Harvard Square, framed as a tale of jealousy between him and his friend Eduardo Saverin, a business wunderkind who manages to get into the fraternity Zuckerberg couldn’t. Aaron Sorkin’s sharp and quick-paced screenplay implies

that the roots of Zuckerberg’s personal problems lie in being rejected during college – from a girl he liked, from the social club he wanted to be in and from other ambitious people who just never took him seriously. (Freshman tip: just as Facebook isn’t “The” Facebook, Pipe Dream isn’t “The” Pipe Dream. Keep that in mind, and you’ll go far in life.)

2. “Old School” Before Todd Phillips was the guy who made “The Hangover,” he was the guy who made “Old School.” The 2003 comedy stars Will Ferrell, Vince Vaughn and Luke Wilson as adults who decide to regress (a common theme in Phillips’s movies) and re-experience frat life. Wilson’s character’s new house is near a university, and because his home is designated for student services or something like that, he and his friends decide to turn the building into a fraternity house that accepts everyone.

Even Mark Zuckerberg would’ve gotten

in. As a result, parties get wild, and odd characters populate the background, most memorably an elderly man named Blue.

The team tries and fails to keep fraternity life and professional life separate and fail miserably with hilarious results.

3. “Back to School” The plot gets needlessly complicated, but basically, Rodney Dangerfield goes to college. Although he already owns a successful business, he never got an education and decides to join his son at the fictional Grand Lakes University.

Dangerfield’s character doesn’t have a transcript or SAT scores, but pays his way in by founding a new business school.

Although his intention is to support his son, he becomes phenomenally popular – throwing parties, knocking down the walls between dorm rooms to make a larger living space and becoming the star of the diving team – and overshadows him. One of the best scenes in the movie

is when Dangerfield needs to write a paper on “Slaughterhouse-Five” and hires Kurt Vonnegut, who makes a cameo in the movie, to write it. He gets an F. 4. “Pitch Perfect” Already a cult classic, last year’s sleeper hit “Perfect Pitch” was the a cappella musical comedy that the world was waiting for. There are nine a cappella groups at Binghamton University, and let’s be honest, some of them aren’t acaawesome. Maybe you can be the next Anna Kendrick and take one in a new direction.

5. “The Freshman” In this audacious 1990 comedy, Matthew Broderick plays Clark Kellogg, an NYU freshman from a small town in Vermont. On his first day in New York, an Italian taxi driver zooms off with his suitcase. After noticing him by chance a few days later and chasing him down, Kellogg learns that the cabbie is part of New York City’s criminal underground,

which is controlled by … Marlon Brando?

Brando’s entire role is an extended riff on his iconic character in “The Godfather.”

Soon enough, Kellogg agrees to run an odd job for the mob for some extra cash only to discover that his job involves illegally transporting a Komodo dragon to New Jersey. The movie is written and directed by Andrew Bergman, a BU graduate most famous for working on the screenplay of “Blazing Saddles.”

6. “National Lampoon’s Animal House” What more is there to say about “Animal House?” It’s the movie that influenced a generation of comedy writers, providing the DNA for movies like “Old School” and “Van Wilder.” It launched the movie career of John Belushi. It’s the prototypical comedy movie, filled with partying, booze and rebellion. Here’s to college, and some cliché you won’t remember and will never forget.

Summer 2013 | www.bupipedream.com

RELEASE

7

Things to Pack

So you came, you saw, you conquered. Now that orientation’s here, it’s time to start planning for the real thing. Before you pack a number of fire-code violating, unnecessary or simply taboo items in your trunk for actual move-in day, consult our what to pack/what not to pack manifesto, and save yourself the space and the shame. By Darian Lusk | Release Editor To Bring Groceries: Go grocery shopping with your parents. You’ll want to have a stocked fridge before they leave, and it’s better to do that on their dime than yours.

Backpack: This seems obvious, but you would be surprised by the number of girls who think they can cut it with a large purse.

But seriously, skip being cute with your Longchamp bags. It won’t hold your shit, it Skip It won’t hold your laptop, and it will get destroyed in the rain.

And you’ll deserve it.

Space heater: It doesn’t get that cold. Suck it up. Plus, it’s not allowed.

Medicine: Bring some over-the-counter stuff, because health services will not save you.

Can opener: There will be days when that canned soup is more appealing than a trek to the dining hall. There will be many of those days.

Headphones: Headphones are essential to the college experience, sadly. And bring extras because the ones at the bookstore are expensive. So unlike them.

Pack it Umbrella: You know why.

You know why.

Not To Bring

Alcohol: Don’t ask your dad to buy you a handle to celebrate your going to college. You aren’t on that

Coffeemaker: You’re a college student now, and that means you’re lazy, too lazy, even, to make your own coffee. Go to John Arthur Café. (Also, we plug John Arthur Café a lot here. Welcome to Release. Welcome to Pipe Dream.

Welcome to Binghamton.)

Pictures of your family and friends: Don’t bring them.

Move on.

Condoms: They’re free in your RA office, and don’t act like you’re going to need that many.

Fan: It does get that hot.

Medusa lamp: It’s not allowed.

Bring it if you want, but it will be a pain in the ass to hide it in your closet every time your RA comes for fire inspections.

Skip It Iron with a real ironing board: Just remember, tools iron their jeans, but tools also have lots of friends.

Exclusive Release How to: Get Around at BU President Harvey Stenger may love talking about his plan for bettering Binghamton University, or his “Road Map,” but when it comes to succeeding at BU, you’ll need a more important road map: one of our city. The Southern Tier is filled with wonders waiting to be discovered, but you’ll need a way to get to them. And as your first glimpse of Vestal Parkway should have told you, that way isn’t walking.

Cabs: At Binghamton, taxis are essential for two purposes: bringing students from campus to Downtown, and of course, bringing students from Downtown to campus. On the weekend, cabs are your shuttle to happiness. At night, cabs cost three dollars, and as you’ve probably heard already, don’t expect a comfortable ride. We’ll leave it at that.

Tips: — Befriend as many cab drivers as possible, and tip them, too, so no matter how busy Downtown is, you’ll always have a way to get to the action. Don’t be surprised if you have more numbers from Persian cab drivers than you do from hookups by the end of freshman year. That means you succeeded. Sort of.

— Don’t puke in the cab. Can’t stress this enough. Don’t do it.

— Don’t insult a cab driver’s music taste. Taxi drivers love Top 40 music, so if that doesn’t fit your complex musical palate, shut up.

Buses: At Binghamton, OCCT, our free student-run bus company, will soon be your best friend. Buses will get you where you need to go, whether it be Walmart (for whatever reason), Oakdale Mall, Downtown during the day, Downtown at night if you have low life standards, and even to the other side of campus, if you have even lower life standards. All buses stop at the University Union, and many of the routes will come through there at least every half hour. It’s a good life.

Tips: — Memorize your bus schedule. That way you’ll know when you need to be by the bus stop, and you won’t waste your precious time waiting.

— Ask your bus driver if you’re on the right bus. This may seem like a rookie move, but it’s always good to make sure you’re actually going where you want to. No shame.

— Grab a Pipe Dream while you wait. That’s just obvious.

Photographers wanted E-mail photo@bupipedream.com

8

FUN

RELEASE DATE– Wednesday, July 11, 2007

Los Angeles Times Daily Crossword Puzzle Edited by Rich Norris and Joyce Nichols Lewis ACROSS 1 Ancient kingdom near the Dead Sea 5 Bush, e.g.: Abbr.

9 Vacuuming, say 14 Between jobs 15 Staff marking 16 Was under the weather 17 Relaxed gait 18 Affluence 19 Set of beliefs 20 RAIN 23 W. Hemisphere defense gp.

24 DDE opponent 25 Place to relax 29 Improvises musically 31 Auto club item 34 Zones 35 Central part 36 Distinctive air 37 REIN 40 Actress Jillian et al.

41 Jazzy Anita 42 Swigs 43 Help-wanted letters 44 Drab 45 Temporary occupant, usually 46 Pal 47 1999 teammate of Brandi, Briana, et al.

48 REIGN 57 Do a garage job 58 Posted charge 59 Birthstone before topaz 60 Purplish hue 61 Declare openly 62 Babe’s cry 63 Bird’s team, briefly 64 Private dinner?

65 Magnificent seven DOWN 1 Chinese food request 2 Pepé Le Pew feature

3 Kal Kan alternative 4 Page 5 Assembly-ready 6 Brings up 7 Mobil relative 8 Halt 9 Hidey-holes 10 Fills open slots, in a way 11 Rah relatives 12 Emit a 2-Down, perhaps 13 Vortex 21 Immerse 22 Not as aggressive 25 Lots of laughs 26 Maine college town 27 Gull relatives 28 Merged news agency 29 Whale of a guy?

30 Chichi 31 Ponders 32 Glacial ridge 33 Break down in English class 35 Beethoven ending

36 They may be brown or cream 38 Time symbol 39 West Indies charm 44 Some rodeo rides 45 Soda buys 46 Had 47 Apportions, with “out” 48 Scented powder

49 First name in ’70s tennis 50 Textiles plant 51 Streetcar cousin 52 Possess 53 Down Under jumpers 54 He called Andy “Paw” 55 Gram 56 Some lodge members

ANSWER TO PREVIOUS PUZZLE:

xwordeditor@aol.com

By Timothy L. Meaker (c)2007 Tribune Media Services, Inc.

7/11/07

7/11/07

Summer 2013 | www.bupipedream.com

Summer Issue | www.bupipedream.com

OPINION

9

PIPE DREAM The Free Word on Campus Since 1946 Address: University Union WB03 4400 Vestal Parkway E. Binghamton, N.Y. 13902 Phone: 607-777-2515 Fax: 607-777-2600 Web: www.bupipedream.com

Spring 2013 Editor-in-Chief* Christina Pullano editor@bupipedream.com Managing Editor* Paige Nazinitsky manager@bupipedream.com

News Editor* Rachel Bluth news@bupipedream.com Asst. News Editors Davina Bhandari Nicolas Vega Geoff Wilson

A Warm Welcome

Y

ou made it! The decision, that is. Picking a college is probably the biggest and most important choice you’ve had to make so far, and we applaud you for choosing wisely.

You made it! The decision, that is. Picking a college is probably the biggest and most important choice you’ve had to make so far, and we applaud you for choosing wisely.

Binghamton University may have been your first choice, but if it wasn’t, you’re not alone. Here, you’ll find company among kids who were smart enough to get into an Ivy-caliber school, but not wealthy enough to pay for it. But having a student body composed of smart, broke kids is one of the things that makes us stand out; students here weren’t all handed their opportunities, they had to earn them. Your classmates will be hard-working, bright and resilient — without the silver spoon.

One of the best things about Binghamton, which lends itself to our charismatic student body, is our style of dorm living. After spending a few weeks in your residential community, you’ll be surprised by how at-home you feel. Passing the same faces on your walk to class every day, eating

with the same people in the dining hall and coming out to the cheesy Welcome Back Weekend events will give you a good feel for the swarm of students with whom you’ll be spending the next four years. And we think you’re going to like what you see.

We’d love to spend these pages outlining our own college stories. And believe us, we have a story or two to tell. But we can’t promise you’d find our weird nights and fond memories as entertaining as we do, and you’ll be too busy creating your own, anyway. Once you partake in your first frat party, good-weather day in College-in-the-Woods or 20-person cab ride screaming Katy Perry on your way Downtown, you’ll see what we mean.

Binghamton University isn’t perfect, and neither is the city itself. You’ll find your own battles to fight — and if you don’t, feel free to use the weather, Sodexo food or our lack of a football team. Those are classics. But it’s the not-so-classic

that will sneak up on you and change your world in a way you never thought possible. It may be the random guy you meet at a frat party and end up falling in love with or the first time you get Sodexo Sue to crack a smile. You’ll know when it happens, and you’ll laugh at yourself because what they say is true: college is the best four years of your life, and you won’t come out the same person you came in.

Freshman year is a world of mostly pleasant surprises, before the years of too much caffeine and too little sleep have taken their toll. For now, keep the spring in your step and an open mind as your gro and learn with a group of talented and passionate peers. They’re about to become your best friends. So get ready for the most exciting, horrifying, challenging and fun ride of your life.

We’re proud to have made it here, and you should be, too.

Opinion Editor* Michael Snow opinion@bupipedream.com Release Editor* Darian Lusk release@bupipedream.com Asst. release editor Jacob Shamsian Sports Editor* Ari Kramer sports@bupipedream.com Asst. Sports Editors Erik Bacharach Ashley Purdy Fun Page Editor* Kris Casey fun@bupipedream.com

Design Manager* Zachary Feldman design@bupipedream.com Design Assts.

Rebecca Forney Cari Snider Photo Editor* Kendall Loh photo@bupipedream.com Editorial artist Miriam Geiger Copy Desk Chief* Victoria Chow copy@bupipedream.com Asst. Copy Desk Chief Natalie Murphy Lead Web Developer Willie Demaniow developer@bupipedream.com System Admnistrator Daniel O'Connor Social Media Manager Shavonna Q. Hinton social@bupipedream.com

Views expressed in the opinion pages represent the opinions of the columnists.

The only piece which represents the views of the Pipe Dream Editorial Board is the Staff Editorial, above. The Editorial Board is composed of the Editor-in-Chief, News Editor, Opinion Editor, Sports Editor, and Release Editor.

Assistant Social Media Manager Keara Hill Newsroom Technology* William Sanders tech@bupipedream.com

Find yourself in college and you've found a treasure What you need to know as an incoming student, spoiler alert: winter's real cold Alright kiddies, welcome to Binghamton.

Michael Snow Opinion Editor

We’re thrilled to have you. Please, by all means, get comfortable. You’ll be here a while.

We’ve heard good things.

You’re the product of a recordbreaking pool of applicants, so our expectations are high.

We’re looking forward to seeing what you bring to the table.

Because we’re on a mission.

We’re on our way to becoming the premier public university of the 21st century, in case you haven’t heard, and you’re our new opening act.

It’s exciting and nervewracking, all at the same time.

But don’t worry, you’ll find

your groove. And if you don’t know what that means yet, that’s more than ok. Because the thing about college is, you can be whoever you want to be.

So take a look around.

A good portion of the students you see will join Greek life. I don’t particularly get it, but they’ll be charmed by the allure of rushing, pledging and hazing. And if you don’t know what those mean yet, don’t you worry your little pants off. Some kind upperclassman will illuminate the fraternity and sorority “initiation” and “orientation” process for you soon enough.

Others may take to campus media. While nothing quite holds up to the esteem of joining a reputable publication like Pipe Dream, there are plenty of ways to get your voice heard.

If you’d literally like to get your voice heard, consider auditioning for one of the

dozen a cappella groups on campus. They’re the hottest thing since the World Wide Web. If you prefer to play music music, start or join a band. And if you’re musical in the sense that you’ve got taste but no talent, I’d recommend poking your head into WHRW, the school radio station, just down the hall.

Others, still, will find their niche in campus politics or communal leadership. And some of the faces you see now will drop off the earth never to be seen again, until graduation, maybe.

The important thing is to get out there and embrace your passion. That may mean pursuing something you’ve dreamt about for years, whether it’s art, anthropology or accounting. More often than not, though, you’ll find the greatest fulfillment from the things you couldn’t have anticipated. In the last few

semesters, I have friends who have switched from pre-med to creative writing, while others have come out to their friends, and then families.

like your clueless drunk friend, unaware he’s exhausted his welcome. Capitalize on any enthusiasm you’ve got now, because the Binghamton winter will knock that right out of your bones until you’ve forgotten what sunshine feels like. Which reminds me, I hope you packed plenty of socks. Really, a few dozen pairs of Eskimo-quality ought to get you through Thanksgiving.

Yet I digress.

Get involved. Raise your hand in class. Try out for a team on a whim. Audition for a play.

Sign up for a cause you never heard of. Find a major. Drop a major. Fall in love with a class.

Fall in love with a classmate.

Take a look around. This is Basically, get out there and it. This is what college looks make the most of it. Once you like. do, you’ll see how wonderful it So get out there and conquer, is here. before it gets cold. Winter’s coming hard and fast. And the — Michael Snow is a senior thing about the Binghamton double-majoring in philosophy winter is it comes and stays, and English

The thing about college is, you can be whoever you want to be

Business Manager* Zachary Hindin business@bupipedream.com Advertising Manager Stacey Troy Dan Weisberger

Pipe Dream is published by the Pipe Dream Executive Board, which has sole and final discretion over the newspaper’s content and personnel. *Positions seated on the Executive Board are denoted by an asterisk.

Pipe Dream is published Tuesdays and Fridays while classes are in session during the fall and spring semesters, except during finals weeks and vacations.

Pipe Dream accepts stimulating, original guest columns from undergraduate students, graduate students and faculty. Submissions should be 400 to 500 words in length and be thus far unpublished.

Submissions must include the writer’s name and phone number, and year of graduation or expected year of graduation. Graduate students and faculty members should indicate their standing as such, as well as departmmental affiliation.

Organizational (i.e. student group) affiliations are to be disclosed and may be noted at Pipe Dream’s discretion.

Anonymous submissions are not accepted.

Any facts referenced must be properly cited from credible news sources. Pipe Dream reserves the right to edit submissions, and does not guarantee publication. All submissions become property of Pipe Dream.

Submissions may be e-mailed to the Opinion Editor at opinion@ bupipedream.com.

www.bupipedream.com | Summer 2013

OPINION

10

The perks of being a BU student

Gene modification is a go

Actors, DJ's and singers: we've got 'em all

Religious arguments against medicine are sick

While applying to college, my classmates were throwing around a lot of big name schools, and I couldn’t help but feel that I wasn’t going to be happy going to Binghamton University.

Luckily, when I arrived, I realized that there were many perks to being a student here.

It’s a tired and clichéd science fiction plot: thousands of identical designer babies ferreted out in assembly line fashion, the process of birth lost to a perverted form of capitalism. Whether we like it or not, the ability to predetermine genetic traits now exists outside the realm of fiction. In fact, throughout the world there is a debate taking place about the legality of gene therapy and its ability to aid children in utero suffering from genetic disorders.

Instead of fearing hypothetical abuses of this technology, we should embrace its potential to

Rachel Wasserman Contributing Columnist

The first perk, and really the best perk, is the state level tuition. Now while my old classmates might be shelling out at least fifty grand a year on tuition alone, Binghamton is really affordable in comparison.

Had I gone to one of those big name schools, I would have been swamped in student loans and stressed about how to pay them off once I left college. Now I am going to be a junior and when I graduate I will join the work force debt-free, and nothing is better than that.

Another great perk about going to Binghamton is that it is not too far from New York City or Long Island. While we may not want to admit it, many students tend to come from Long Island, New York City or around those areas. Binghamton University is only three hours or so away from those locations! So if you’re homesick or just want to get away from the Sodexo food, it’s a really easy bus ride back home.

Hinman Production Company, and Dickinson Community Players, as well as opportunities within the theatre department.

Did you ever think of being on the radio? You can join WHRW for that! Do you like pretending to be a pirate? There’s a club for that too! There’s is a club for almost anything you can think of, and they are all really great outlets to meet new people.

Binghamton also has a brand spanking new gym that you can join! While it might take some money out of your pocket, it’s really nice and has all the equipment you might need if you want to ward off the freshman fifteen. The final perk I will disclose is the bus system.

OCCT is always available to take you to Walmart or Wegmans or Being a freshman, a lot of you Target or wherever you need to might want to get out there and go. I thought that not having join some clubs. Binghamton a car as a freshman would be has a very large variety of a problem, but the buses were clubs, and I must say that it has always there to help make the certainly helped me find friends, trip easier, and they are free! and get involved in the things that I love. Do you like acting?

— Rachel Wasserman is a Well there are a lot of student junior majoring in English. run groups on campus, such as

Do you like pretending to be a pirate?

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Contact our Opinion Editor by emailing opinion@bupipedream.com

Submit a letter to the editor: Email Editor@bupipedream.com

Molly McGrath Columnist

alleviate the suffering of millions of people and their families.

In April, the Human Fertilization and Embryology Authority assured the government of the United Kingdom that “mitochondrial replacement” was a safe technology. This recommendation was met with harsh criticism, from members of the religious right and beyond.

The practice would allow for the manipulation of patients’ DNA in order to prevent mitochrondial defects. Though this technology

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is a specific instance of gene therapy, its implementation could lead to other forms of DNA manipulation prior to birth. This technology has the potential to treat many chronic genetic disorders. Everything from predisposition to cancer to Huntington’s disease could be treated if this technology were approved and subsidized by the UK government.

Religious groups responded by condemning the practice as “playing God.” In their logic, some people are given heavier crosses to bear and to tamper with predetermined traits is to tamper with God’s plan. It is easy to make this argument if one is blessed with healthy children.

I’d wager that if the opponents of this technology were blessed with a child suffering from a mitochrondrical disorder, they’d be singing a different tune. In fact, it seems sinful to withhold from intervening when it has the power to alleviate suffering.

Without the early onset of dementia or heart failure, a child of God is much more capable of serving a higher power.

The religious argument which deems medical intervention illegitimate has ugly consequences. If we accept every malady as a necessary consequence of faith, the entire practice of medicine must be eliminated. I don’t think

the majority of God-fearing individuals would support this policy.

Some are against genetic modification technology arguing that it will most likely end in a genetic class warfare in which the rich create perfect, superior children and the poor are left behind, unable to purchase this medical treatment. This is a slippery slope argument.

First, this takes the technology completely out of context and suspends certain conventions of reality; each new use of gene manipulation would be subject to similar debate. If we denied all forms of technology simply because they had the potential for abuse, there would be no innovation. Technology is like any tool. Tools can be used for good and bad, but the tool itself is not inherently bad. What if we told the first man to harness fire that he should stop because it had the potential to burn him? We’d all be freezing to death, eating raw meat in a dark cave! We cannot accept the status quo simply because it is more comfortable. Opponents of genetic modification technology must re-focus their fear into strict regulation to prevent its misuse. The benefits of gene therapy outweigh the risks.

— Molly McGrath is a junior majoring in political science.

Summer Issue | www.bupipedream.com

SPORTS

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Binghamton's most successful program works hard on and off court With Hazarika leading the way with 21-4 singles mark, Bearcats win sixth straight AE championship Ashley Purdy Assistant Sports Editor Five-time America East Coach of the Year Adam Cohen delivered again this season, steering Binghamton’s most successful program to an NCAA berth for the sixth straight year.

The men’s tennis team secured a 16-10 record in 2013, facing off against nationally ranked programs Cornell, Columbia and Yale before competing against No. 2 University of Georgia in the first round of the NCAAs. Cohen, who came to Binghamton from University of Minnesota seven years ago, attributed the program’s success mainly to the athletes and their hard work. He praised America East Player of the Year and Rookie of the Year Sid Hazarika and the other freshmen’s notable contributions, as well as the more experienced sophomores and Bastian Bornkessel’s senior leadership.

“It’s a team effort from everybody—they all work hard,” he added. “It all starts with them and ends with them, basically. If they’re committed to doing the work, we should have good results. And if they don’t work hard, then you can’t expect the team to do that well.”

“If they’re committed to doing the work, we should have good results” — Adam Cohen BU head coach

But between asserting themselves as the top program in the America East, establishing a place in the regional rankings and earning a spot in the NCAAs for nine of the past 11 years, the team has clearly worked hard.

In singles matchups, the Bearcats posted an overall record

of 129-88, with Hazarika leading the bunch with a 21-4 overall record. Junior Ruben Haggai and sophomore Robin Lesage also stood out on the stat sheet, posting records of 22-9 and 20-12, respectively.

In doubles matchups, the team managed a 49-45 record, with Bornkessel (17-14) and sophomore Ismael Dinia (18-11) driving the Bearcats.

But the results are not limited to the court. The tennis team has traditionally enjoyed academic success in flying colors, and this year’s team continued the trend, clinching four of the six seats on the America East Men’s Tennis AllAcademic Team, filled by Haggai, Dinia, Lesage and sophomore Florian van Kann.

“These guys have all been good guys, they’ve all come here and tried extremely hard on the court and in the classroom,” he said. “Anyone who’s started here has finished their degree, so I’m most proud of that.”

This double-faceted success on the court and in the classroom has come despite the pecuniary disadvantage that Cohen said separates Binghamton from other schools.

“We’re operating on a shoestring budget here and scholarship allocation is not what it is at many other schools like Georgia or Minnesota or any major conference,” he said. “We’re operating under the minimum, and so for us to be able to continue to have a relatively decent amount of success, that shows the amount of hard work that we put into everything—be it recruiting or player development.”

Yet despite the team’s achievements and status, it doesn’t spend quite as much time in the spotlight as some of Binghamton’s other programs—men’s basketball, for one. But Cohen didn’t seem concerned with the idea, instead focusing on what the team is able to control.

“We just have to go about our business,” Cohen said. “If it’s not covered, it’s not covered. I’m not the marketing person. We just go about our business, and we’ll let that be handled by somebody else.”

Photo Provided

Sophomore Eliott Hureau competes at the NCAA tournament, where Binghamton fell to No. 2 University of Georgia. The Bearcats reached the tournament after winning their sixth straight America East title.

Quick facts about Binghamton sports Men's Basketball

Lacrosse

Women's Softball

The men’s basketball team has not posted a winning record since the fall 2009 scandal. The Bearcats won three games in 2012-13, but rising sophomore guard Jordan Reed averaged 16.6 points and 9.5 rebounds per game in his first season at Binghamton. Head coach Tommy Dempsey thinks he has the pieces to see improvement in his second year at the helm.

Neither of the lacrosse teams made the America East tournament in 2013, but each squad returns a pair of all-conference selections. For the men, junior midfielder Michael Antinozzi and freshman defender Chris Bechle made the second team for their respective positions, while goalie Erin McNulty and midfielder Allie Rodgers landed on the all-rookie team for the women.

Since joining Division I before the 2002 campaign, the softball team had never won more than 24 games in a single season. But with 30 wins in 2013, the Bearcats set a new mark, earning a second-place finish in the America East as well. Binghamton lost in the conference semifinals, falling short of its first appearance in the NCAA tournament.

Men's Wrestling The wrestling team went 5-13 in its last season in the Colonial Athletic Association, but four individuals earned berths in the NCAA championships.

Seniors Donnie Vinson, Nate Schiedel and Derek Steeley and junior Cody Reed competed in the tournament, in which Binghamton finished 32nd. Vinson fell one win short of notching All-American honors for the second straight year.

Men's Tennis With freshman Sid Hazarika leading the way, the men’s tennis team captured its sixth straight America East title. The Bearcats, who lost to No. 2 University of Georgia in the NCAA tournament, went 16-10 in 2013, and Adam Cohen won his fifth AE Coach of the Year award.

Women's Volleyball After a 2-12 start to 2012, the volleyball team reeled off nine wins in its last 14 regularseason games to earn a spot in the conference tournament. The Bearcats upset top-seeded Albany in the championship to receive the America East’s bid to the NCAA tournament, where they fell to Penn State 3-0.

Women's Track For the first time ever, the women’s track and field team finished as high as second in the America East outdoors this year.

Head coach Mike Thompson and his staff of Annette Acuff, Natilee Dawkins and Gabe Fletcher took the conference’s women’s Coaching Staff of the Year award, as junior Alexis Murray led the team with three top-three finishes.

SPORTS

TENNIS

Feature: Hard work pays off for BU Page 11

Summer Issue

CATCHING UP WITH TOMMY DEMPSEY

Daniel O'Connor/Staff Photographer

Binghamton went 3-27 in 2012-13, but Tommy Dempsey said he expects to see improvement in his second year as the program’s head coach.

Dempsey sits down with Pipe Dream to review first year at BU Ari Kramer Sports Editor

"I think we’re starting to shape the roster in a way that is better prepared to play the style of play we’re going to be most comfortable with going forward"

When Tommy Dempsey took control of the Binghamton men’s basketball program in May 2012, he faced an uphill battle that most coaches would have avoided at all costs. The team had won just two games in 2011-12, and three players transferred that April, leaving the incoming coach with extra scholarships to fill late in the signing period.

But the former head coach of Rider embraced the challenge, and Year One of the Dempsey Era is in the books. Pipe Dream Sports Editor Ari Kramer sat down with Dempsey to review his first year in Binghamton.

Ari Kramer: Coach, it’s been about a year since you took the Binghamton job. What are your thoughts on your first full year here?

Tommy Dempsey: I think in spite of a poor win-loss record we’ve made a lot of progress. I think we established who we’re going to be moving forward. I think we’re starting to shape the roster in a way that is better prepared to play the style of play we’re going to be most comfortable with going forward. I think we’ve done a good job on the recruiting trails. We’ve brought in some players who can help us turn

this program around. So all in all I think we’re moving in a very positive direction.

AK: Most rewarding moment of year one?

TD: Probably the gamewinner that [senior guard] Jimmy [Gray] made at Maine was the highlight of the year.

The one thing that this team did was it showed up every day, it worked hard every day, it prepared, and there were a lot of nights where we weren’t rewarded with a victory. And to see that shot go in and the reaction of the players, they didn’t have a lot to get excited about throughout the course of the year, but that was one moment that everyone will remember.

AK: Most challenging?

TD: I would say dealing with the losing was probably the most challenging part. To watch the players and coaches prepare and most nights come up on the short end, that was hard just to keep everybody positive and focused and practicing and playing hard.

AK: What makes you excited about the 2013-14 season?

TD: I just think it’s important to turn the page.

There’s so much you have to try to get your arms around as you’re trying to establish your program, and I think through that first year we’ve done a lot of things that have us more

prepared for success in year two. Just to have a good sense of who we are and what we’re trying to accomplish and get more players in here who will help us win. When you look at it going forward, it was so hard to get through that first year in so many ways. Now that it’s time to turn the page, I think there’s a lot of excitement that there can be significant progress in year two.

AK: Just how chaotic was the spring signing period for you and your coaching staff?

TD: We were fortunate to have four commitments from good players that we signed early, so I think that took some pressure off trying to get guys at the last minute. The one thing you don’t ever want to find yourself in is scramble mode trying to build your roster late in the recruiting season. That was something that, out of necessity, happened to us last year. We worked hard, but I wouldn’t say it was chaotic.

AK: What do you want the Class of 2017 to know about your team when they pick up this paper at orientation?

TD: That we’re going to be exciting and that we need their support. We want to be a source of pride for this university, and that’s what we’re trying to build, a program that the students, faculty and community can be really proud of. I think if the

Class of 2017 comes on board, they’re going to see a program that’s growing, and they’re going to see a basketball team that plays a very fun style.

Hopefully in their four years here they’re going to experience a lot of winning with us.

AK: You judged at Mountainview’s Battle of the Chefs. What was that like?

TD: That was great. I didn’t know what I was getting into initially, but it was a lot of fun.

There were a lot of talented maybe future chefs that were cooking that day. Every group did such a great job that it was very hard to distinguish between the groups. It was a lot of fun. It was fun to interact with the student body. It was something that I look forward to doing again.

AK: Tell us something most students here probably don’t know about you.

TD: They probably don’t know a lot about me. I think we need to keep building relationships with the student body and coaches and players so they can feel like they know us on more of a personal level.

I’m pretty much just a regular family man who works hard and loves coaching and really feels an obligation to make this university proud of our program.

"We want to

be a source of pride for this university, and that’s what we’re trying to build, a program that the students, faculty and community can be really proud of"

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