 EATING ON CAMPUS From campus dining to downtown, we've got you covered.
YOUR BEST YEAR YET
Tips and tricks for dorm room decor, roommates and more. The best events around campus taking place the first week of school.
WELCOME WEEK 2017
RISE
RISE MAGAZINE RISE MAGAZINE IS THE ELECTRONIC MAGAZINE OF THE UNDERGROUND, A STUDENT-RUN NEWS MEDIA PUBLICATION FOR STUDENTS AT PENN STATE. IN ADDITION TO THE MAGAZINE, RISE IS ONLINE 24/7 WITH MUSIC, ARTS, AND CULTURE CONTENT. RISE IS THE MAGAZINE COMPANION AND A COLORFUL DISPLAY OF WHAT THE UNDERGROUND STRIVES TO BE – A SPACE FOR INSPIRATION, CREATION, AND ADVOCACY AMONG STUDENTS AT PENN STATE. WE’VE CALLED THE MAGAZINE RISE AFTER AMERICAN WRITER MAYA ANGELOU’S FAMOUS POEM STILL I RISE, A DECLARATION OF TRIUMPH OVER ADVERSITY. THIS POEM SERVES AS A REMINDER OF OUR COMMITMENT TO SOCIAL JUSTICE AND COMMUNITY. THE ONLY WAY TO OVERCOME HATE, OPPRESSION, AND INJUSTICE IS IF WE RISE – TOGETHER, UNIFIED AND WITH STRENGTH.
CONTACT US
MISSION STATEMENT
Call, Text or leave us a message
The Underground is an
at:814-317-NEWS (6397)
independent, multicultural
General Inquires
student-run media site devoted
info@psuunderground.com
to exposing the untold stories
News
within the Penn State
news@psuunderground.com
community. We seek to foster
Politics
the multicultural student voice
politics@psuunderground.com
through creating an open forum
Visuals
of discussion and promoting
visuals@psuunderground.com
diversity and community
RISE Magazine
involvement.
info@rise.psuunderground.com Advertising ads@psuunderground.com
EDITOR'S NOTE
Welcome to Penn State, Class of 2021! Get
I hope that you'll continue to follow The
ready for an adventure like no other. I hope
Underground and RISE Magazine throughout
that you'll find your forever home here at
your time at Penn State, and we promise to
Penn State, whether that be with a few
deliver you news that is quick, accurate and
friends in your dorm, on a sporting team, or
relates to your student experience.
even a news organization like The
We're here to serve you, and we promise to
Underground.
work as hard as we can to earn your trust.
My biggest advice for all of you is to be a
Welcome again, and we look forward to
sponge. Absorb all that you can from the
seeing you around campus this year.
moment that you walk onto campus.
We Are!
There are a ton of unique people, organizations, and things to do here, and getting involved is something that you won't regret. Adriana Lacy EDITOR IN CHIEF
CONTENTS
04 WELCOME WEEK 2017 Here's what to know about this year's Welcome Week festivities.
THIRTEEN Brush up on Penn State fight songs.Â
10 TRANSPORTATION Information on campus and off campus transportation at Penn State.
NINETEEN "Dear First Year Students" from those who have been there.
TWENTY Podcasts you should be listening to right now.
15 DINING ON CAMPUS Tips and tricks for eating on campus.
WELCOME WEEK WEEKEND 2017 Thursday, August 17 New Student Convocation T-shirt Pick up Starting 12 p.m. Thursday, first-year students can pick up their t-shirts for New Student Convocation. A student ID is required to pick up the t-shirts in room 129 of the HUB-Robeson Center. Friday, August 18 Campus & Downtown Tours Tour guides will be around to show students what downtown State College has to offer as well as get the chance figure out where their classes are for the fall semester with campus tours. Downtown State College tours begin at 2:30 p.m. until 3:30 p.m. (Meet to the left of the Pollock Commons desk in Pollock Halls), and campus tours begin at 1:30 p.m. until 2:30 pm (Meet to the left of the Pollock Commons desk in Pollock Halls). Friday Night Lights with Women’s Soccer If there’s one thing you need to know about our Penn State women’s soccer team, it’s that they are really really good. Come out and hang with their student section, the Park Avenue Army as the team takes on Brigham Young University at 7:30pm on Jeffrey Field. Saturday, August 19th President’s New Student Convocation Students will have a chance to be officially welcomed to Penn State by the university president, college deans, and more. In addition, Convocation typically has a few student clubs perform. Before convocation, be sure to pick up your free t-shirt of your academic college that should wear to the event. Convocation begins at 7:45 pm at the Bryce Jordan Center.
WELCOME TO PENN STATE! THE OFFICE OF STUDENT ORIENTATION & TRANSITION PROGRAMS HAS A LOT IN STORE FOR YOU ALL BEGINNING ON THURSDAY, AUGUST 17TH. WE PICKED OUT SOME OF THE BEST THINGS TO DO DURING THIS YEAR’S WELCOME WEEK WEEKEND
Late Night Penn State After convocation, head to the first LateNight of the year from 9 pm until 1 a.m. in the HUB-Robeson Center and enjoy free food, giveaways, and performances by an acrobat duo, a magician, a hypnotist and more. Sunday, August 20 College Dean’s Meetings This is a chance for you to meet faculty and staff in your academic college plus learn about campus resources within your college. The full list of college dean meeting times and locations can be found here. Multicultural Student Orientation This event is put on by the Paul Robeson Cultural Center and the Multicultural Resource Center as a chance for diverse students to meet with academic support while enjoying a good meal. The event kicks off at Heritage Hall in the HUB-Robeson Center at 5:30 pm. Be a Part From the Start Taking place in Rec Hall every year, Be a Part From The Start is a chance for incoming students to learn all about Penn State traditions. There will be appearances from the Nittany Lion, cheerleaders, the Blue band and possibly a few Penn State coaches. This is an event you don’t want to miss. Be a Part From the Start begins at 8 p.m. in Rec Hall.
ADRIANA LACY | THE UNDERGROUND
“This will be a great opportunity
impacted them,” Shontz said.
to become informed residents
Having a good relationship
and learn about everything that
between the borough and the
State College has to offer”,
university is vital, because the
Douglas Shontz, a
borough plays a big part in the
communications specialist for the
student experience at Penn State.
Borough of State College, told
“When students arrive to State
RISE Magazine. “The goal of all
College they are becoming
the engagement stations is to
Borough residents. We want those
help LION Bash attendees
individuals to feel a sense of
maintain a high quality of life and
community and be informed
Living In One Neighborhood
safe environment in the areas
residents. Having a positive Town-
(LION) Bash, a block party and
they reside.”
Gown relationship is favorable for
resource fair, will return again for
LION Bash stems from
both communities,” Shontz said.
its third year Tuesday, August
conversations from campus and
“If we don’t foster that sense of
29th in downtown State College.
community members who wanted
community between all residents
The event will have over 80
to organize more events that
(temporary student residents and
interactive engagement booths
brought together both the
permanent residents), then there
where participants can learn more
campus and residential
is a greater chance of dissonance
about services, ordinances and
community. LION events have
among temporary student and
local businesses in State College
happened annually for over ten
permanent residents.”
along with food from local
years, but Shontz says that this
LION Bash will take place from 6
eateries such as Rita’s Italian Ice,
year will be the biggest LION Bash
p.m. to 10 p.m. August 29th on the
ElGringo Taco Truck, and Ye Olde
yet.
100 and 200 blocks South Allen
College and live entertainment.
“This year we’re combining the
Street. Partners for the event
Some of the acts set to perform
LION Bash with the Community
include Penn State, the
nclude Miss Melanie and the
Resource Fair, which was another
Downtown Improvement District,
Valley Rats, The Adorabulls,
educational opportunity for
Neighborhood Associations and
Velveeta, and Penn State
residents to learn about local
the Borough of State College.
students.
services and ordinances that
LION BASH LOOKS TO FOSTER COMMUNITY IN STATE COLLEGE BY ADRIANA LACY
19
MULTICULTURAL GROUPS TO HOST BLOCK PARTY SEPTEMBER 3
Most importantly though, the event will expose first year students to the various multicultural clubs and organizations around campus. “We have wonderful organizations that are centered around minority students on this campus and having that Written by: Adriana Lacy personal contact with students will help towards having Photo by: Adriana Lacy more student involvement with these organizations,” Crew said. “I want freshmen to see all that Penn State Multicultural organizations are teaming up to present has to offer them and I feel this Block Party was the way a block party on the HUB Lawn September 3rd, an to do it.” event to welcome first year students and expose them Tatiana Brown, a senior kinesiology major and coto the various resources available on campus. organizer of the event also added that she hopes the At University Park, Penn State’s flagship institution, event will be unifying for multicultural students. “I just the makeup of the campus is overwhelmingly white, want to see us come together and learn together and with white students making up 64% of students support each other,” she said. enrolled. Because of this, the campus can often feel Organizations involved in the planning of the event isolating for students of color, especially first year include Penn State’s chapter of the NAACP, Black students. Student Union, Caribbean Students Association, National “Being a student here at Penn State, I see that Society of Black Engineers, Cubaniches, Latino Caucus, sometimes there can be a disconnect between Asian Pacific American Caucus, Dominican Students minority students and their knowledge of their Association, Queer Trans People of Color, Black Caucus, available resources on campus,” said Raenika Crew, a the National Pen-hellenic Council, and the Multicultural junior agricultural business management major and Greek Council. one of the organizers of the event. “College can be Although this is the first year for the event, Crew hopes stressful and being a minority student at this PWI can that the tradition continues. “The committee has been be a major adjustment as well.” working very hard to put together this event that we he Block Party will feature inflatables, food, games, hope will become something that happens every year on giveaways and music from local DJ Erv Gotti. here will this campus,” she said. also be student performances from Urban Dance The Block Party event is free and open to public on Troupe, Island Fever, the Latino Caucus Dance Team, Sunday, September 3rd from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. the Dark Storm Step team, student musician RiZ, with more performances to be an announced.
DORM DECOR: 5 DORM ROOM TIPS Moving into your first dorm is a memorable experience. For the first time in my life, I had to share my room with a roommate. While the adjustment was definitely a bit difficult to get used to (especially the communal bathrooms), I enjoyed living in a dorm my first year. When you move into your dorm on move-in day, your dorm will be very bare. You’ll have a twin bed, a closet, desk, microfridge, and a trashcan, but that’s about it. This is where your dorm decorating magic comes in. Below are five room tips for a great first-year dorm room.
STORAGE, STORAGE, AND MORE STORAGE Let’s face it: you’re probably brining a lot of stuff to college, and if we’re being honest, too much stuff. Being able to store your things creatively is crucial. Look into all different types of storage: under the bed (invest in bed risers), big colored bins, plastic drawers and other similar things. Most of these storage options are pretty inexpensive to buy and available at places such as Wal-mart and Target.
MAKE IT SHINE Depending on which dorm you live in, there will either be one light on the ceiling for you and your roommate to share, or lights on each side of the room that you can control individually. Either way, having a light either on your desk or near your bed is a plus if you don’t want to wake your roommate while you’re cramming at 2am for your math test. A lot of people also invest in holiday lights on the wall, which also acts as a cool room decor.
Leo Massey | The Underground
COMFORTER CRAZINESS INothing adds more pizzaz to your room than your comforter. It’s the first thing most people see when they come in, and the perfect comforter makes for a pleasant sleeping experience.
RUG MANIA IRugs are great to have in your dorm, especially during the chillier months when the dorm floors are freezing cold. In addition to their practical use, rugs can also be a great way to spice up your room from the ground up.
DORM EATS Although you have a meal plan, you may want to cook in your dorm occasionally. You’re only given a microwave and fridge, but there are still a few things you can make with those limited resources. Not to mention, a few dorms have kitchens.
For more dorm room inspiration, visit our website and check out our Pinterest boards.
5 WAYS TO BOND WITH YOUR ROOMMATES Written by: Cecile King Photo by Leo Massey
The hardest thing a student can go through is not feeling comfortable in their own dorm room. An easy solution to the problem is to bond with your roommate so that the stress of your living doesn’t collide with school and classes. Here are five easy tips that can get you to bond with your roommate(s). 1. Cook with your roommates. Even if you live on campus, there are places on campus that you can cook such as Brill in Eastview Terrace. Doing a small thing like baking cookies or even have a spaghetti night can allow your roommate(s) and you to bond. 2.Go to the movies Watching a movie you are both/all interested in can make for great conversation later. Something funny or even a thriller can spark a conversation with your roommates. 3. Go to LateNight Late Night has a lot of activities that you can do with your roommates. Have fun with crafts and grab a couple of slices of pizza. 4. Invite your friends over and have a game night Whether it's bowling or even playing monopoly, have fun with your roommate to show your competitive side. Games allow you to get to learn about your roommate better than before. 5. Have a Spa Style Day Go to a nail salon and get your toes done together. You can even get your own nail polishes together and paint your nails. With facial mask and making your own sugar scrub, it will be a calming activity that you and your roommates love N O M will ADIC | and 24 appreciate.
1 2 0 2 U #PS u o y e r a What d e t i c x e t mos ? r a e y s i for th a r o f s u Tweet  ! n i w o t chance round g r e d n u @psu
GETTING AROUND CAMPUS TRANSPORTATION One of the most important things to know on campus is how to get around. While the blue and white loops, and green and red links may seem confusing now, they’ll be your best friends when it comes to commutes across campus or inclement weather. CATA Bus Service On campus, the Centre Area Transportation Authority (CATA), Centre county’s public transportation authority, works with the university to offer four bus routes around campus.. These routes are free, and all you have to do is hop on. You read that correctly. No ID, no money, just hop on and hop off when needed. Blue Loop Sometimes referred to as the “Bloop,” the Blue Loop will likely be your most frequented bus. The route runs clockwise around campus about every 5-12 minutes during peak hours (M-F 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.) hitting all the good stops: East Halls, the library, Bryce Jordan Center, the HUB and even downtown on College Ave. Pro-tip: all the on campus buses stop at the Pattee Transit Center (better known as the library). No need to pull the string. Seriously, just don’t do it. White Loop Apparently, people call this the “whoop.” I think that’s ridiculously lame. Any-who, the white loop is a saving grace for all who live in downtown State College apartments and for freshman who want a quick ride to the library or the Forum Building from East Halls. In addition to running counter-clockwise around campus, this bus goes downtown on Beaver Avenue. For those who like to party…uh I mean study late at night, it runs until 4 a.m. on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights. And just like the blue loop, this bus suffers from overcrowding as well. Upperclassmen could tell you countless stories of how the bus has passed the Meridian stop on cold snowy days without letting people on because it was full. Red Link While not as often used, this bus is still really important because it stops at the Mt. Nittany Medical Center as well as Innovation Park, or what Penn State calls the”ecosystem where business, education, and research come together.” If you ever need to visit the hospital for any reason (like getting a concussion playing IM soccer), this bus will get you there and back. In addition, if you’re a College of Communications student, you’ll probably need this bus as a few classes as well as extracurricular clubs are housed out there. Also, if you’re headed to the Penn Stater Hotel and Conference Center for a fancy banquet, the bus makes a stop there, too. Green Link This bus is somewhat of an enigma for a lot of students who live on campus. The bus goes from the commuter lots to campus, to accommodate those who drive to work. Seeing that you won’t have a car on campus freshman year, consider it a mini Blue Loop that ends at Medlar Field. So there you have it, your complete guide to the CATA bus system. And with everything else in the world, there’s an app for that. There are two iPhone CATA bus apps: CATA and myStop Mobile. For Android users, there’s CATA+ and myStop Mobile.
GETTING AROUND OFF CAMPUS TRANSPORTATION Uber In addition to our famed CATA buses, Uber is also a great way to ride around town. Equipped with a mobile app, Uber is loved by many students at Penn State. Whether it be taking a quick run to Target or taking an Uber from Sparks to South Halls (I’ve seen it all), Uber will be your best friend. Watch out though, because Uber does have surge pricing. To put it simply, when Uber is in high demand, the prices go up to ensure availability. This typically happens during football weekends, so be sure to split fares during this time. Taxi Although sometimes seen as a thing of the past, there are a few taxi services in State College. A few good ones to check out are Happy Valley Ride, AA Taxi and Nittany Taxi. Vamos! Lion Chariot It’s only right for me to throw this in here too. Vamos! Lion Chariot is a locally owned service that gives downtown and campus tours in style. You’ll likely find the drivers with a huge smile on their faces, waving to everyone. These are great for dates, campus tours or even just something to do. Getting Home (like home, home) In addition to riding around town, there are also many options to get to your house (where mom and dad live), easily from State College. Greyhound & Fullington These two bus services are great options for students on campus who live in metropolitan areas such as Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, DC, and King of Prussia and more. The best part about these two services is that the bus terminal is on campus (just take the blue loop and hop off at the Walker Building), making it great for those who live on campus. In addition, Fullington offers a free ride after five rides with the service. Megabus Similarly to the two mentioned above, Megabus is another option for students traveling home. The only difference is that the Megabus stop is located at the Wal-Mart on North Atherton Street. The price range is also pretty wide – some days you can get a ticket for $5 and the other days its $50. So be sure to plan ahead. University Park Airport We even have an airport! Although very small (read: one terminal), the University Park Airport can get you to major hubs in the northeast and midwest. The airport has big time airlines such as United, Delta and American that fly out as well. In addition, the University Park Undergraduate Association (UPUA), your student government, sometimes offers free shuttles to the airport during peak travel times such as the end of finals and breaks. Be sure to check out their website to find out the next time they’re offering shuttle service. Train I told you we had a lot of options. Just 45 minutes up the road in Lewistown there’s an Amtrak station as well. I’m not too sure how many students actually use this option, but it doesn’t hurt to include it.
PARATRANSIT TO BE REPLACED BY NEW CAMPUS SHUTTLE Penn State’s Paratransit will be replaced starting August 21 with a new campus shuttle service. The no-fare service, called ‘Campus Shuttle via Pollock Road’ will serve 16 stops including the arboretum, Palmer Museum, and Redifer Commons, and travel in the opposite direction of the existing campus shuttle Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. during the fall and spring semesters. The current campus shuttle will be renamed to the “Campus Shuttle via College Avenue” this fall, with the route and schedule remaining unchanged. Campus Shuttle via Pollock Road will be identified by white signage, while the blue signage will remain for the shuttle via College Avenue. “The new Campus Shuttle via Pollock Road will help us reach an important goal—increasing the number of people who get around campus using transit and other modes of alternative transportation,” said Rob DeMayo, director of Transportation Services in a release. “With our new service, combined with the existing Campus Shuttle and CATA’s LOOP and LINK, we will offer six dedicated no-fare campus transit options that provide convenient transportation to nearly every corner of the University Park campus.” Although the new shuttle service will replace the Paratransit Shuttle service, a service for students, faculty, and staff with mobility impairments, transportation services has made sure that the new service will still accommodate those needs. Keith Jervis, the director of Student Disability Resources said that the shuttle is a form of more inclusive transportation. Identical to the existing campus shuttle, the Campus Shuttle via College Avenue will be wheelchair-accessible, and both shuttles will offer priority seating for those with mobility impairments. “No longer will an individual need to identify and be labeled as a person with a disability to have access to this transportation option,” he said. “This universally designed solution will benefit many while providing more timely access to classes and offices.”’ Each campus shuttle will also be equipped with automatic vehicle location (AVL) technology that allows riders to see each shuttle in real time through the TransLoc Rider mobile app and online at psu.transloc.com.
Leo Massey | The Underground
CATABUS SERVICES AND FARES TO CHANGE AUGUST 19 The Centre Area Transportation Authority will increase fares on all CATABUS rides and change schedules and times of a few routes, effective August 19. Full Cash Fares and tokens will change from $1.75 per trip to $2 and one-month OnePasses will increase by $10, from $69 to $79. Family passes have also been eliminated in favor of youth passes and a new $6 day pass. On campus, an additional time has been added to the Red Link schedule, changing the daytime service frequency to every 20 minutes and every 25 minutes during the evening, to accommodate increased traffic and ridership. Reduced Service weekday and weekend service will not change, but departure times will be adjusted. Various changes will also be implemented for routes including that Vairo Blvd. Express, Waupelani/Campus, and Martin St/Aaron Drive Express and regular route.
PENN STATE FOOTBALL 2017 SCHEDULE Sat, Sep 2 vs Akron 11:00 AM Sat, Sep 9 vs Pittsburgh 2:30 PM Sat, Sep 16 vs Georgia State 6:30 PM Sat, Sep 23 @ Iowa TBD Sat, Sep 30 vs Indiana TBD Sat, Oct 7 @ Northwestern 11:00 AM Sat, Oct 21 vs Michigan TBD Sat, Oct 28 @ Ohio State 2:30 PM Sat, Nov 4 @ MI StateTBD Sat, Nov 11 vs Rutgers 11:00 AM Sat, Nov 18 vs Nebraska TBD Sat, Nov 25 @ Maryland
PENN STATE ALMA MATER For the glory of old State, For her founders strong and great, For the future that we wait, Raise the song, raise the song. Sing our love and loyalty, Sing our hopes that, bright and free, Rest, O Mother dear, with thee, All with thee, all with thee. (Softly) When we stood at childhood's gate,
Shapeless in the hands of fate, Thou didst mold us, dear old State, Dear old State, dear old State. (Louder) May no act of ours bring shame To one heart that loves thy name, May our lives but swell thy fame, Dear old State, dear old State.
PENN STATE FIGHT SONGS FIGHT ON STATE (TOUCHDOWN SONG) Fight on State (GO!) Fight on State (GO!) Strike your gait and win, (LET’S GO STATE!) Victory we predict for thee We’re ever true to you, dear old White and Blue. Onward State, (GO!) Onward State, (GO!) Roar, Lions, roar: (LET’S GO STATE!) We’ll hit that line, roll up the score, Fight on to victory ever more, Fight on, on, on, on, on, Fight on, on, Penn State! (S-T-A-T-E GO! STATE!) .
PENN STATE VICTORY FIGHT! FIGHT! FIGHT! for the Blue and White, Victory will our Slogan be. Dear Alma Mater, Fairest of all Thy loyal sons will obey thy call, To FIGHT! FIGHT! FIGHT! with all their might ever the goal to gain; Into the game for Penn State’s fame, Fight on to vict’ry (WE! ARE! PENN! STATE!) Fight on to victory.
THE NITTANY LION Every college has a legend, passed on from year to year, To which they pledge allegiance, and always cherish dear. But of all the honored idols, there’s but one that stands the test, It’s the stately Nittany Lion, the symbol of our best. Chorous HAIL! to the Lion, loyal and true. HAIL! Alma Mater, with your white and blue. PENN! STATE! forever, molder of men (and women), FIGHT! for her honor — FIGHT! — and victory again. Indiana has its Hoosiers, Purdue its gold and black. The Wildcats from Northwestern and Spartans on attack. Ohio State has its Buckeyes, Up north, The Wolverines. But the mighty Nittany Lions, The best they’ve ever seen. (Chorus) There’s Pittsburgh with its Panther, and Penn her Red and Blue, Dartmouth with its Indian, and Yale her Bulldog, too. There’s Princeton with its Tiger, and Cornell with its Bear. But speaking now of victory, We’ll get the Lion’s share. (Chorus)
Coming to college is a great experience. From new friends to new classes and even a new environment, there is so much to be exposed to. With five dining halls and various on campus eateries such as the HUB, small cafe’s and even downtown dining, you won’t go hungry at Penn State. Now we’ve all heard rumors and stories about the dreaded “Freshman 15.” I’m here to tell you that it can be avoided – but only if you want it to! With three fitness facilities, various bike/running trails, pools, workout classes and more, there was a reason why Penn State was named as one of the healthiest colleges in the country. Starting Fall 2017, fitness memberships are included with student tuition thanks to the new Student Initiated Fee. With your fitness membership, you have access to: Rec Hall Fitness Center IM Fitness Center White Building Fitness Center Recreational aerobic classes All indoor Pools at Natatorium and White Building Open recreation hours at Sarni Tennis Center outdoor, lighted tennis courts. In addition, you classes such as Zumba, Power Remix, Yoga and Bootcamp. Classes are offered at the three fitness facilities Monday-Friday with limited classes on the weekend. If you’re into serious gains, you can even get a personal trainer to help you reach those long-awaited fitness goals. Watch out though: fitness facilities at Penn State tend to get crowded at peak hours. Be sure to check out the live gym attendance page, which
CAMPUS RECREATION BY: ADRIANA LACY
s s e n #fit tracks the number of people at the gym, and plan accordingly. IM SPORTS Another way to stay fit on campus is through intramural sports. IM sports are offered at Penn State throughout all semesters and give students the chance to play sports such as soccer, basketball, volleyball, and tennis, in a competitive environment without much commitment. Students can form teams with friends or register as a “free agent” and compete in various leagues, including mens, women's, co-ed, fraternity, and residence hall. Some sports, such as golf and 5k races are single competition, and students can face off against each other for the win. And for those who love sports and want a pretty cool job on campus, IM sports is
always looking for sports officials, with starting salaries at $9 per hour. CLUB SPORTS Still got it? Those who want a more competitive athletic environment can join one of the 75+ club sport teams that the university offers. Students involved in club sports “meet regularly for practices and competitions, and to conduct demonstrations, host seminars, coordinate social activities for members, and engage in community service activities.” Some club teams even compete with other schools for regional and national tournaments. Sports range from basketball and soccer to archery, equestrian, cycling and many more. While you’re spending the rest of the summer eating cheese balls and bingeing Netflix, be sure to follow Penn State Strength, Penn State Fitness, and Healthy Penn State on Twitter to stay up to date with all things health at Penn State.
The Freshman Guide: Eating on Campus College means independence, and independence means deciding what you’re going to eat everyday. Your parents won’t be there to plan and make your meals for you; it’s all in your hands now. Now that you’re living on campus, someone will still (generally) be making your food for you, but you will have a much wider range in choice of what to eat. With all of the food choices available to you at Penn State, it’s important to be aware of all your options so you can make the best decisions based on your location, your wallet, and your diet. CAMPUS DINNG Each of the five residential areas on campus has its own food options. Usually, this consists of all-you-careto-eat dining commons, a la carte options, a coffee bar, and a convenience store. All-you-care-to-eat is the cheapest option to get the most food; with meal points, it’s $2.10 for breakfast (only offered at some locations), $3.85 for lunch, and $5.00 for dinner. You can see what they’ll be serving through Housing and Food Services’s website (if you download the app you can track your meals and find out when they’re serving your favorite foods). If you don’t like what they’re serving or aren’t very hungry
to begin with, opt for a la carte.
exist throughout campus.
you can use to buy food. Because
Some residential areas have
The HUB has numerous food
you’re paying for the base cost,
better a la carte options than
options on the ground floor from
you’ll get a considerable discount
others, where you can get food
national franchises such as
on your food — namely 65% off
from sandwiches to soup to
Starbucks (one centrally located
food at all-you-care-to-eat and a
sushi. For me, the best dining
and one in the bookstore), Burger
la carte facilities, as well as a 10%
King, and Panda Express. I
discount at some other dining
recommend grabbing a poke
locations on campus. You have
bowl from Hibachi-San and
three different meal plan levels
cookies from the food court area.
to choose from.
However, keep in mind that these
You can use Lioncash to pay for
options are a lot pricier and do
food, too, but you’ll only get a
not afford you the same
10% discount on food at
discounts you would have with
residential and retail dining.
residential dining. Also,
However, Lioncash comes in
depending on what time you get
handy if you’re running low on
commons are at Pollock, and the best a la carte options are at South. Pollock has a wider range of food options with lots of space to move around and plenty of seating options. South Food District has a much smaller all-you-care-to-eat commons, but they have more a la carte options. Both locations
there, the lines can be
meal points. Towards the end of
are located near central
particularly long.
the semester, if you run out of
campus, so they are also a
More food options are sprinkled
meal points, you’ll automatically
convenient option during the
throughout the rest of campus.
be charged with your Lioncash
day between classes. If you are
You can grab Au Bon Pain in Kern,
for the price of your food with
one of the many freshmen that
IST, Visual Arts, or Katz; Blue Chip
meal points. You can add more
live in East, you’ll be close to
Bistro in the Business Building;
Lioncash to your account through
the newly renovated Findlay
and more. Several other dining
the Penn State ID Card website.
Commons and its plethora of
options will give you a 10%
food choices, including kosher
discount on prepared items since
SOME FINAL TIPS
options to be introduced this
they are not nationally branded.
If you’re buying food at the
fall. West and North are smaller,
If you’re studying at the library,
dining commons, it’s more
Mackinnon’s Cafe in the
optimal (and the default) to use
basement of West Pattee has lots
meal points; otherwise your
of options and is kept open late
meals would be very expensive. If
for finals. Cafe Laura is a student-
you can, try to save your meal
run cafe in Mateer. And, of
points for places that will afford
course, the Berkey Creamery has
you discounts, and use Lioncash
many options to satisfy your
or some other form of payment if
sweet tooth.
you’re at the HUB. Of course, it
but they still serve much of the same food that is served at other commons. West Food District in particular is known for its cookies, and North Food District features halal options four days a week. RETAIL DINNG
isn’t always an option to do that MEAL POINTS VS. LION CASH
if you’re low on cash, which is
Meal points are what you
why your meal plan is there in the
residential dining location, or
purchase through your meal plan.
first place. Do what you can with
just want something different
Part of your meal plan
what you have to make your meal
to eat, plenty other options
goes toward the base cost of the
points stretch throughout the
food preparation, and the rest
semester.
If you’re too far away from a
If you’re shopping at a location
longest wait for food when you
sandwich or salad to move
like Louie’s or West Wing, be
try to get it between classes.
through faster.
aware of the price difference
After you’ve been at Penn State a
You’ll learn many more tips and
between made-to-order
bit you’ll get adjusted to the
tricks while you’re at Penn State,
food/food prepared by Penn
schedule so you can best figure
but this introduction will help you
State and nationally branded
out when to get food. For
be prepared to make the best
food items (Ben & Jerry’s,
instance, if you want lunch on
food choices when you arrive at
Kleenex, etc). You will get the
Monday, Wednesdays, or Fridays,
Penn State in August.
65% discount on the former but
know that the dining commons
pay full price for the latter. If you
generally open at 11 AM and
can, go somewhere like Target or
classes generally let out at 11
McLanahan’s for your ice cream
AM, 12:05 PM, and 1:25 PM. If it’s
and tissues so you don’t have to
unavoidable to go at one of these
pay extra on campus. You’re
times and you’re in a hurry, grab
generally going to have the
something premade like a
MORE FOOD TIPS VISIT RISE.PSUUNDERGROUND.COM
CAMPUS DINING Leo Massey | The Underground East Food District at Findlay
"The University is committed to
Commons, in East Halls.
supporting cultural and religious
“For a lot of prospective Jewish
diversity among its students, and we
students and their families, kosher
are very excited to be creating new
food is a top priority when choosing
spaces for students to come
the right university to attend. Prior
together to share meals, customs
to the opening of Pure, it was hard
and ideas,” said university President
to attract students with kosher
Eric Barron in the same release. “The
dietary restrictions, despite having
kosher kitchen is a positive example
one of the largest, and most vibrant,
of what can come from creating
Hillel, a student organization
Hillels and Jewish populations at a
opportunities to have open
dedicated to the Jewish
public university,” said Penn State
dialogues about how to foster a
experience at Penn State,
Hillel’s Director of Community
welcoming campus environment. In
announced that starting in the
Engagement, Hannah Giterman in a
just one casual conversation, we
fall 2017 semester, the university
release.
became aware of a desire for a
will open its first Kosher dining
In the past, the only kosher food
kosher setting, and that’s a really
service, named Pure.
options on campus was through
powerful statement about the
After discussions between
Hillel’s kosher kitchen at the
importance of bringing different
members of Penn State Hillel,
Pasquerilla Spiritual Center, certain
voices to the conversation.”
thbe University Park
religious holidays or homes of local
The kitchen will open in East Halls in
Undergraduate Association
community members.
August and will serve dinner from 5
(UPUA), Housing and Food
With the new kosher kitchen,
p.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday through
Services and Penn State Food
students will have access to food
Thursday along with brunch from 10
Services, the dining facility will be
options that meet Jewish dietary
a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sundays.
the first certified-kosher kitchen
laws along with allergen-free gluten
at Penn State and located in the
and sesame on the menu.
PENN STATE TO OPEN INAUGURAL KOSHER DINING HALL BY ADRIANA LACY
EVERYTHING WILL BE THROWN AT YOU AT ONCE JUST TAKE A SECOND TO BREATHE, AND FIGURE OUT STRATEGIES THAT WILL GET YOU THROUGH YOUR JOURNEY HERE IN COLLEGE. NEVER BE AFRAID TO ASK FOR HELP IT'S ALWAYS THERE IF YOU NEED IT. ENJOY YOUR FRESHMAN YEAR YOU ONLY EXPERIENCE IT ONCE. - RAENIKA CREW, JUNIOR
WITH VARIOUS STUDY ABROAD OPPORTUNITIES, ONE WILL SURELY FIT YOUR ACADEMIC AND PERSONAL GOALS. HOWEVER, BE SURE TO ASK AROUND FOR SCHOLARSHIPS FROM EVERY DEPARTMENT YOU ARE INVOLVED IN BECAUSE THERE IS ALWAYS A WAY TO MAKE THIS RESUME BOASTING AND LIFE CHANGING EXPERIENCE AFFORDABLE. - RANA MOHAMED, JUNIOR
GO FORWARD WITH THE MANTRA THAT YOU DON'T HAVE TO BE PERFECT. SHOW HUMILITY. TAKE CARE TO LEARN FROM OTHER'S EXPERIENCES ALONG WITH YOUR OWN. THE BIGGEST LESSON I LEARNED FROM COLLEGE WAS THE NECESSITY OF LEARNING MEANINGFULNESS LESSONS. NO PUN INTENDED... - CAMERYN HUNTER, SOPHOMORE
ADVICE FROM THOSE WHO HAVE BEEN THERE
DEAR FIRST YEAR STUDENTS
10 PODCASTS YOU SHOULD BE LISTENING TO
Pod Save America | News & Politics Lovers of liberal politics will quickly become Friends of the Pod. Pod Save America’s hosts, a team of former Obama staffers, examine current issues through the lens of the left. They discuss topics of pertinence, featuring a variety of guests. The semi-weekly production lives up to its tagline, “a no-bullshit conversation about politics,” and is sure to provoke thought and provide a good laugh.
NPR Politics | News & Politics For a less biased look at the current political news, NPR Politics releases a weekly roundup and shorter podcasts on big political events throughout the week. While the dependability of public radio carries through, NPR Politics is a more casual conversation on current events. It’s perfect for anyone looking to stay up to date, but on their own schedule.
FiveThirtyEight Politics | News & Politics
Whether you’re in search of entertainment on a long road trip or just looking for something to pass the time during a summer job shift, podcasts are a great way to give your brain some much needed stimulation during your time off from school. Podcast topics range from politics to pop culture and everything in between, making it difficult to determine what’s worthy of a listen. We’ve done some work for you on that front – here are ten podcasts you should be listening to.
Those who followed the 2016 Presidential Election closely will likely remember FiveThirtyEight, a election poll analysis website. On the podcast version, Nate Silver and his team tackle the world of politics through a unique lens: the numbers. Using the polls as a gauge, FiveThirtyEight Politics provides weekly insight into the current state of the union.
Welcome to Night Vale | Comedy For fans of the eclectic and unsettling, Welcome to Night Vale is a fictional radio show highlighting happenings in the town of Night Vale. Updated bi-weekly, the podcast features a host of curious events, from the appearance of dark hooded figures in the dog park to the presence of a mysterious glow cloud in the sky. Beware of listening in the dark – Welcome to Night Vale may make listeners remember the monsters hiding under the bed.
Serial | Crime Serial gained its popularity with its first season, which explores the 1999 murder of Hae Min Lee and accusation of her ex-boyfriend, Adnan Syed.Serial’s second season uncovers the story of Bowe Bergdahl, a soldier held by the Taliban for nearly five years.
Host and Happy Valley resident Sarah Koenig spends each episode delving into the untold details of these cases, captivating listeners with the stories she chooses to tell.
Up and Vanished | Crime Those who enjoyed Serial Season 1 will also get hooked on Up and Vanished. Inspired in part by Netflix’s Making a Murderer, Payne Lindsay takes on the 2005 disappearance of Georgia beauty queen Tara Grinstead. Up and Vanished brings a cold case into the media spotlight, unearthing groundbreaking evidence during the podcast’s production and leaving listeners on the edge of their seats.
Sworn | Crime A product of Up and Vanished, Sworn tells stories of other major unsolved crimes. Sworn’s host Phillip Holloway has a background in criminal law, and aims to shed light on the criminal justice system. Though only two episodes are out so far – detailing the Lake Oconee murders – Holloway’s podcast is on track to tell some intriguing stories about the legality and emotional consequences of major cases in the US.
99% Invisible | Art & Design There are a million things in the world we don’t know the story behind, and often don’t think about either. 99% Invisible explores these hidden stories of life – from the design of birth control packaging to the reason for missing children on milk cartons. Host Roman Mars brings to light the fascinating backgrounds of the little things, providing listeners with a new understanding of the world which surrounds them.
Revisionist History | Society & Culture Fans of 99% Invisible will also enjoy Malcolm Gladwell’s Revisionist History. Each episode of Gladwell’s podcast examines a single subject: a person, event, or object. Gladwell’s subjects range from basketball player Wilt Chamberlain to the Foot Soldier Statue in Birmingham, giving each a second chance at a story.
Heavyweight | Society & Culture Last but not least, if you’re the kind of person who (maybe secretly) likes hearing about drama, Heavyweight is the podcast for you. Heavyweight tackles the moments, years, and relationships that shape people. It weeds through the regrets, the unknowns, and the could have beens to tell stories about life and humanity. Almost like listening to a therapy session between friends, Heavyweight is sure to draw listeners in.
While we discovered some quality podcasts, we certainly didn’t hit all the good ones! Drop us a line if you have a favorite not mentioned on this list.
CHANGE THE NARRATIVE WITH US. JOIN THE UNDERGROUND TODAY. PSUUNDERGROUND.COM/JOIN
1) Paterno Library, 2nd floor At the Paterno library on the Social Sciences floor lies an introvert’s study sanctuary. By the H-K section of book stacks, you will find a table that is quietly nestled in between them. Imagine a table surrounded by books and only books. You can thank me later, or when you find me sitting in this spot. 2) Knowledge Commons If you’re lucky, the group study rooms in the Knowledge Commons at the Pattee library will be empty. These rooms are sealed shut by electronic glass doors and are nearly soundproof. In addition, the Knowledge Commons is also home to a lot of big computers and big desks. My favorite spot is the wall because of the comfortable chairs and quieter environment. Oh, and MacKinnon’s Cafe is only steps away, so if you get hungry, the library is a good spot if you need to get some grub. 3) Westgate Building (formerly named the IST building) The Westgate building is a really cool study spot. The building itself reminds me of an airport with its sleek outward and modern interior design, and it has a pretty nice view from the inside. There is a café and plenty of comfortable study spaces inside, as well. 4) The HUB The HUB is a good study spot for a couple of reasons. First, it is in the center of campus, so it isn’t a far walk. Second, it holds a variety of study spaces that may fit anyone’s studying style. If you need to do group work, the ground floor is perfect while the upper floors have small cubicles and other spots for personal work. Third,
Third, there are a bunch of places to eat if you get hungry. However, the only problem with the HUB is that it can get a bit noisy during the day. 5) Pattee Library, 3rd floor The 3rd floor at the Pattee library is home to a variety of quiet spots to work in, and there is a nice computer lab that is usually never occupied. This is a go-to place during finals week when you can’t find anywhere to study and if you need to type something up on one of the school computers. 6) The Stacks The stacks in the Pattee-Paterno library are a great place to study. You can plug-in your laptop and do whatever you need in a quiet space. In addition, there’s a nice view to look out from when you get bored! 7) Residential Halls One study spot located at Beaver hall in Pollock on the ground floor is a little cave-like computer lab that I use often. It is best for those living in South and Pollock because of its proximity and location. However, it can get a little hot in there. In addition, there are a couple nice places to study on the ground floor if you can get in. 8) Empty Classrooms Empty classrooms are good to study in if you can’t find anything else, especially during finals week. However, if you find a whole room to yourself, I’d consider that a study room steal.get a bit noisy during the day.
FRESHMAN GUIDE: STUDY SPACES eau
de
As a freshman, I often found that it was difficult to study next to my bed, or my TV, or with my roommates who can’t stay quiet. And I still do. To make up for this, I found a couple of cool study spots on campus. Some of these spots are out in the open for those who like group work, while some are for those who know that quality work happens in peace. So, here’s a list of my favorite study spaces on campus.
parfum
/ BY GARRET H
The Freshman’s Guide to Being a Nittany Lion BY: CHEYENNE PETTIFORD
As you begin your journey as a college student, you need to be aware of all of the wonderful resources available to you, as well as tips and tricks that will make these the best years /of your life!
Congratulations! Your hard work and tremendous abilities have brought you to the Happiest Valley on Earth! Now that you’re officially a Penn Stater and you have survived your first few weeks of classes, you may have realized that it’s not all a walk in the park. Being a college student does mean newfound autonomy and independence, but being in charge of yourself requires loads of responsibility and quite a bit of prioritizing. As a senior, I have been in your shoes, and I have gained some insight about effectively balancing fun and academic responsibilities. I promise, it is possible to keep up that GPA and find time to escape East Halls. Here are a few tips I have to make the most out of this experience. et involved! There are so many different student organizations and events here on campus.
(Finding something that suits your interests will not only give you a reason to get out of your dorm room, but will also help you make friends with similar interests as well as meet people with different life experiences than your own. Whether you want to join a club for students of a specific cultural background, such as the African Students Association or the Latino Caucus, or want to bridge the gap between cultures with the Japanese Friendship Association, there are many organizations out there waiting with open arms. If supporting social change is more your speed, clubs such as the LGBTA Student Coalition or Progressing Our Women through Empowerment and Reverence (P.O.W.E.R.) can help you take a stand. The possibilities truly are endless,
so don’t be afraid to reach out! Taking the initiative to network and build a platform for your future career is also very important. It may seem very soon, but the earlier you start thinking about these things, the more prepared you will be in the long run. Check out the Career Fair that takes place in the Bryce Jordan Center during both the fall and spring semesters to secure that dream internship that could jumpstart your career! Reach out for help when you need it! Though we all would rather not admit it, sometimes we can’t always handle things on our own, and that’s okay! Penn State provides many different resources for any questions or aid you may need during your time here. The Multicultural Resource Center (MRC) is there to help you with any challenges you may face as a multicultural student here at Penn State. Located in 220 Grange Building, you can visit your advisor for anything from study advice to methods for handling conflict. Your advisor is here to help you stay on track with your academic and personal needs, so utilize that extra help! If you feel that your transition into college has become too stressful or you are having personal problems that you cannot iron out alone, visit our Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) located in the Student Health Center. You should never feel embarrassed or ashamed of things you are struggling with; there are many other students on campus that can identify with what you are going through, and people that would love to help.