Orientation special

Noah Shinn gazes into the stars at the SRU Planetarium in Vincent Science Center. Shinn is a student director for the planetarium which presents free shows weekly to the public. The shows are unique each week and designed by SRU students.

NEWS

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President Norton's 5 tips to success at SRU EDITORIAL BOARD Kevin Squires

Editor-in-Chief

Haley Barnes

News Editor

Katie Ellis

Campus Life Editor

Brian Hepfinger

Sports Editor

Alex Mowrey

Photo Editor

Andrew Conner

Web/Social Media Editor

Shelby Stearns

Copy Editor

Amber Cannon

Assistant News Editor

Janelle Wilson

Assist. Campus Life Editor

Ryan Barlow

Assistant Sports Editor

Rebecca Dietrich

Assistant Photo Editor

Emily Brown

Multimedia Reporter

Mark Zeltner

Faculty Adviser

ADVERTISING STAFF Karleigh Santry

Advertising Manager

ABOUT US The Rocket is published by the students of Slippery Rock University every Friday during the academic semester with the exception of holidays, exam periods and vacations. Total weekly circulation is 3,000. No material appearing in The Rocket may be reprinted without the written consent of the Editor-in-Chief.

The first copy of The Rocket is provided free of charge. Additional copies may be purchased for 50 cents each.

The Rocket receives approximately 5 percent of its funding from the SGA Student Activity fee paid each semester by students. All other income is provided through the sale of advertising.

Advertising inquiries may be made by calling (724) 738-2643 or by emailing rocket.ads@sru.edu.

SUBSCRIPTIONS

Subscriptions to The Rocket are available. Subscriptions are $20 per academic semester and $35 for the full academic year. Inquiries should be directed to the Editor-in-Chief at the address listed here.

LETTERS POLICY The Rocket welcomes letters to the editor and guest columns, but does not guarantee their publication.

The Rocket retains the right to edit or reject any material submitted.

Submitted material becomes the property of The Rocket and cannot be returned. Anonymous submissions will not be published.

Those who submit letters must identify themselves by name, year in school, major and/or group affiliation, if any. Please limit letters to a maximum of 400 words. Submit all material by noon Wednesday to: The Rocket, 220 ECB, Slippery Rock University, Slippery Rock, Pa. 16057. Or send it via e-mail to: rocket.letters@sru.edu.

INDEX Sports.................B-1 Opinion..............C-2 Campus Life............C-1 Ambassadors.........C-5

CONTACT US Newsroom: (724) 738-4438 Advertising: (724) 738-2643 Fax: (724) 738-4896 Email: rocket.letters@sru.edu

220 Eisenberg Building Slippery Rock University Slippery Rock, PA 16057

Nationally recognized as one of the top 10 four-year weekly broadsheet newspapers by the Associated Collegiate Press.

ALEX MOWREY / THE ROCKET

To our new students, Welcome to the Slippery Rock University family.

Whether you are joining us directly from high school or transferring from a community college or fouryear institution, you are about to embark on one of the most important journeys of your life – obtaining a Slippery Rock University degree.

Slippery Rock University is very different from any other place at which you may have studied. To take advantage of all that the university has to offer, both in-and-out-of the classroom, you need a game plan.

There will be plenty of opportunities throughout WOW and the first couple of weeks at The ROCK for you to learn what you shouldn’t do… like don’t go home every weekend, or don’t skip class, or don’t eat only tater tots and ice cream (even though both are nice treats every once in awhile.) So, here are some ideas about what you should do formulated into a fivepoint plan to help you be successful at SRU.

class, sleeping, studying, sleeping, eating, sleeping, exercising, sleeping, working and sleeping…so you might be wondering how you will find the time to get involved. Believe it not, the best students are those that get involved. Why? Because in order to handle multiple priorities, you have to learn to manage your time. And, time management not only requires practice, but it is a skill that you’ll need for the rest of your life.

2. Be willing to pay the price.

Someone once said to the famous violinist Fritz Kreisler… "I’d give my life to play as beautifully as you do.” To which he replied, “I did.”

Now, you might not know who Kreisler is, but I bet you know many people, men and women, who have had to work hard to be successful.

You can be successful at SRU. We wouldn’t have admitted you to the university if we didn’t have confidence in your ability to succeed.

But you have to do your part. You have to go to class, study, ask for help if you need it and offer help 1. Treat today as the day whenever possible. We can you begin to build your provide all the ingredients personal and professional for success, but you’re the resume. chef. Your success isn’t on anyone else’s head; it is your R e g a r d l e s s o f t h e responsibility. opportunities you may have had up to this point, SRU is 3. Learn to get along with the place to embrace new others. experiences. We have nearly 200 social, honorary and Most employers will tell special-interest clubs for you that people don’t fail you to explore. Interested because they aren’t smart in how government works? enough or don’t know how Then get involved with SGA to do their jobs, but because or RHA. Have a passion for they can’t work with others. capturing events with words It’s our goal, indeed our or images? Then get involved fervent hope, that while at with student media. Come SRU you’ll be introduced from a land-locked area? to people who are not like Try kayaking. The goal here you: people who come is to take some risks. Not from different cultures and the stupid, reckless risks ethnic races, people who that can result in injury, or have different religions and get you sent home, but the people who have different type that force you out of lifestyles. Each person on your comfort zone and into this campus adds to the new opportunities. Doing tapestry of our university. so demonstrates to future Your goal should be to meet employers your willingness as many people as you can to learn and accept new who are different from you, challenges. to learn about their cultures, From this day forward, hopes and dreams. Will you every activity both in-and- like everyone you meet? out of the classroom should No. But I bet you’ll discover contribute to developing the that you will have more in attributes and skills that will common than what makes make you a better employee, you unique. And from that citizen and/or graduate. knowledge comes respect, I recognize there are a lot and with respect for one of demands on your time… another comes the ability

to live, learn and work together.

4. Do the right thing.

To be perfectly honest, by this time in your life you know the difference between right and wrong.

When faced with life’s challenges (and you will be) or a roommate’s double dare or peer pressure to act reckless, illegally or stupid, take a minute to think about how your parents, family or real friends are going to feel when they read about it in the newspaper (or online where it will live forever)… and choose to do the right thing. It takes years to build trust and only a few seconds to destroy it. This is especially true for education majors where one bad choice could mean you’ll never be able to earn a teaching credential. Remember, you are known by how you act.

5. Take care of you.

This may be last, but not the least important, point in my plan. You need to take care of yourself physically, mentally and spiritually. A Buddhist saying asks, “If you don’t take care of your body, where will you live?”

Good question. You need to eat right, exercise, get plenty of rest and balance class responsibilities with study time and play. Be patient with others and hope they return the same courtesy to you. Set goals. Dream.

In fact, dream BIG. You can’t exceed your wildest expectations if don’t have wild expectations. If you start to feel overwhelmed, ask for help. We have people everywhere ready to assist you. Talk to your community adviser, a tutor, an academic adviser or to one of the professionals at the health or counseling centers. You’re the reason they are here.

And remember, smiling and saying hello to others as you cross campus isn’t only a tradition at SRU, it’s good for you!

So, there you have it. My five point plan for happiness and success at SRU. I hope you will embrace this plan as the gift it was meant to be.

Welcome to the SRU family, we’ve been waiting for you.

Sincerely, Cheryl Norton, president

NEWS Dance program receives national ranking

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By Bridget McClure Rocket Contributor

SRU’s dance program was named second best in Pennsylvania and among the top 25 nationally on D a n c e - C o l l e g e s . c o m’s 2014 national and state dance schools ranking report.

The website provides an online ranking for students considering majoring in dance in college, as well as contact information, major availability, and diploma selection. SRU was ranked second in PA, fifth in the Northeast, and sixteenth in the nation. SRU scored 4.5 stars overall and 5 stars in curriculum on the site’s five-star rating system.

“One of the things the website prides themselves on is that they are not affiliated with any school or college group, which allows them to make an unbiased assessment of dance programs,” Ursula Payne, professor and chair of the dance department, said.

Payne said SRU made t h e l i s t f or s e v e r a l reasons; excellent faculty, innovative curriculum, performance opportunities and the success of graduates. The faculty has national and international recognition in the field of dance. The curriculum for dance majors is unique at SRU because they train in performance, choreography and teaching. The program also offers dual degree programming with Adapted Physical Activity and extra-curricular programming with three dance companies; Rock Dance, Afro Columbian Dance Ensemble and SRU Dance Theater.

Jennifer Keller, professor of dance, specializes in instruction of all levels of modern technique, as well as dance technology, wellness for dancers, and d a n c e i mprov i s at i on .

Keller believes one of the program’s strengths is using dance as a platform for a lot of career choices.

“A BA d e g re e ge t s students a really solid foundation that they can pursue in many different areas,” Keller said. “We really look at the individual students and strive to customize their program of study to their career interest.”

Ballet specialist, Nola No l e n Ho l l a n d , h a s accompanied dance students on international trips to Chennai, India, Paris, France and Rome, It a l y.

She believes the international component to the dance program enhances the curriculum and definitely distinguishes SRU. “SRU is a nationally accredited program and for 25 years we’ve been working toward being one of the best,” Nolen Holland said.

Payne and 18 SRU students recently attended the East Central American College Dance Association (ACDA) Regional Festival hosted by Ohio University from Feb. 28 to March 2. The ACDA’s primary focus is to support and promote the wealth of talent and creativity that is prominent throughout college and university dance departments. There were 390 participants in this year’s festival from about 30 colleges and universities. Payne was elected by the ACDA membership to the National Board. SRU has had students present at the festival every year.

“The festival has always been important to us, even in the early stages of our program,” Payne said.

“Now we have a really known presence there.”

The conference also prov i d e s t h e u n i qu e opportunity for students and faculty to have their dance works adjudicated

REBECCA DIETRICH/THE ROCKET

SRU dancer, Bailey Campbell, practices her routine during rehearsal. The SRU dance department was recently named the second best dance program in the state and 16th in the nation overall.

by a panel of nationally recognized dance professionals in an open and constructive forum.

SRU adjudicated two dances choreographed by senior Ryan McMullen and Samantha Wesler.

Mc Mu l l e n’s s ol o w a s selected for the GALA concert. Senior Abigail Hewitt’s choreography was performed in the informal concert. The students viewed 64 dance performances over the three days, and were also given the opportunity to take dance classes and attend lectures from faculty

at different institutions.

Payne will be traveling to Atlanta in May for the national meeting, where policy and procedures are discussed for the association. McMullen was accepted into the Master of Fine Arts in Dance program at Florida State University and Wesler was accepted into the Master of Fine Arts in Dance program at University of Colorado at Boulder.

The dance department is also eager to start on the renovations of the West Gym complex, Keller said.

Eventually the plan is that

they will have renovated studios in West Gym and Miller Auditorium.

“With dance, you’re blending both your intellectual learning with creative and physical learning,” Payne said.

“All of those things come together when you are engaged in some type of creative project. As somebody who is a dance teacher and once a dance major, being able to say that I’ve been able to live my life around those things has been extremely rewarding.”

Declaration of minors, second majors has pros, cons

By Amber Cannon Assistant News Editor

For most incoming freshmen, college is a time to find out who you really are and what you want to do with your life. Although most freshmen come into college with a declared major, finding the perfect area of study could mean adding a second major or a minor.

Dr. John Rindy, director of career education and development, said adding a second major or minor exposes the student to new opportunities and allows the student to pick up additional skills.

“By adding a second major or minor, it exposes you to new things and new opportunities, [such as] joining an organization to volunteer, doing group projects in those courses to see if you’ll take the lead on those group projects. It’s just an opportunity to see the world from a different perspective, especially if you have very diverse interests,” Rindy said.

According to Rindy, adding a second major or minor to your studies can also open the door to experiences within and outside the classroom as well.

“For example, in psychology you’re going to be exposed to the psychology club and Psi Chi Honorary, but if you had a second major in business, you’re going to be exposed to the Society of Advancement for Management, the Student Marketing Association and the Alpha Kappa Psi Honorary,” Rindy said. So,

I think by adding a second major you see more opportunities to build the co-curricular experiences as well as your general knowledge that’s going to be marketable someday.”

Adding a major or minor to a student’s area of study has its advantages, but it also has some slight disadvantages as well. If a student adds a second major later in their college years, it may extend the student’s time here by a semester or two, Rindy said. Rindy also said if a student is in a major that’s really full, such as education, the program does not give the student a lot of wiggle room for another major or minor.

“Some majors have a lot of credits in them and you may have less flexibility of adding a minor or second major unless you are willing to stay an extra semester or two,” Rindy said.

The first answers that people give you when adding a second major or minor is, “Oh wow, that’s going to automatically expand your job market,” Rindy said. Although this may be true, Rindy said most people today do not work in the areas that they studied. He also said seven out of ten Americans today don’t work in their undergraduate area of study once they are out in the market for about ten years because they are exposed to so many new things.

“I’m a perfect example. I have a business degree, a public health degree and an environmental degree and I don’t do any of them, I’m the director of career education and development,” Rindy said. “There is one professor that I know really well. He studied architecture and he’s one of our criminology professors.”

Daschinique Johnson, sophomore public health major, 18, said that adding a second major is a great advantage because jobs see that the student focuses their time and are broadening their studies. She also said that declaring a second major or minor can have some difficulties associated with it as well.

“It really depends on the person and what you’re major or minor is,” Johnson said. “It also depends on how many credits the second major or minor is. Don’t just add a second major or minor for nothing. Nine out of ten times you’re going to change your major anyway.”

Vonita Hall, sophomore economics major, 20, also said that students shouldn’t just choose anything to add to their studies.

“I would say wait,” Hall said. “Don’t go straight into adding a second major or minor when you’re a freshman. Just wait until you’re a first or second semester sophomore to decide.”

Rindy encourages students to come to Slippery Rock University with the mindset of focusing on being a good student first before declaring a second major or minor.

“I say come here, study one thing that you love and choose a major,” Rindy said.

If a student is thinking about declaring a second major or minor, Rindy said the student should sit down and talk with their academic advisor about the thing they would like to accomplish. Rindy also suggests students come and talk to a professional career consultant in the office or career education and development.

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FROM IMAGING TO URGENT CARE. BHS Slippery Rock offers a wide range of services – right in your backyard.

100 Innovation Drive, Suite 103, Slippery Rock

724-794-7923

Butler Health System FasterCare provides urgent care with the focus on you. Whether it’s during the day, in the evening or on the weekend, we’re here when you need us with fast, effective treatment for minor illnesses and injuries, as well as routine medical services such as flu shots and physicals.

BHSDermatology.org

100 Innovation Drive, Suite 101, Slippery Rock

724-794-4023

BHSPrimaryCare.org

Treatment for Minor Illnesses Colds, Coughs, Sore Throats Flu, Bronchitis, Pneumonia Sinus, Ear and Other Minor Infections Asthma and Allergies Rashes and Skin Conditions Vomiting and Diarrhea

100 Innovation Drive, Suite 103, Slippery Rock

724-968-5300

BHSOrthopedics.org

Treatment for Minor Injuries Cuts, Lacerations and Burns Sprains and Strains Minor Broken Bones and Simple Fractures Bee Stings and Insect Bites

Physical Exams

Walk in lab, x-ray, and EKG testing

For Sports, Driver’s Permits, Work Requirements and Other Needs

By appointment, to schedule call 724-284-4000 or 1-877-247-2717

Flu Shots

Echocardiology, CT, Digital Mammography, MRI, Ultrasound

The Best Way to Prevent the Flu

On-Site Prescriptions

100 Innovation Drive, Suite 100, Slippery Rock

For Many Common Medications

724-794-3843

BHSOutpatient.org

100 Innovation Drive, Suite 102, Slippery Rock Open Monday thru Friday, 9am to 9pm Open Saturday & Sunday, 9am to 5pm Closed All Legal Holidays

724-794-HEAL (4325)

BHSFasterCare.org

Accepting most insurances, including Highmark and UPMC.

NEWS

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Student Health Center Student Health Services Open 24/7 to Care for SRU Students A nurse is always here to help you

ORIENTATION

Things to do before you leave for SRU:

2015

RX

Turn in your immunization forms 2019

PULSE: EXCITED D

/m

CLASS OF

Get your prescriptions filled

Transfer your prescriptions to a local pharmacy Complete MyStudentBody, online educational wellness tool (you will receive details on how to complete in July via your SRU e-mail) For more information visit our website: www.sru.edu/healthservices or call 724.738.2052

Slippery Rock Student Government Association What positions are on Senate?

Freshman Senator

Commuter Senator

Anyone that is a current freshman can fill one of these four spots to represent the Freshman class.

Anyone that lives off campus is elibable to fill a chair within the commuter senator Constituency.

Graduate Senator

Building Senator Every Residence Hall has one representative on senate to represent their respective building.

Executive Board President, Vice President of Student Affairs, Vice President of Campus Outreach, Vice President of Finance, Vice President of Internal Affairs, Speaker of the Senate, and Parliamentarian.

There are two spots for anyone that is a graduate student that wishes to be involved on Senate and represent those earning additional degrees.

Join Student Government Association!

Applications available Online and in the office! www.srsga.org What does SGA oversee?

SGA Bookstore Located in the Smith Student Center, giving students easy access to all of their scholarly needs as well as SRU apparel!

Happy Bus Providing Students with three daily shuttles, transporting them from one side of campus to another as well as to all of the major local housing complexes. It also takes monthly trips to Butler shopping facilities!

@srsga

SGA Daycare

Movie Series

Located in McKay Education Building, the Daycare provides a community resource for local families as well as an educational/employment opportunity for our students.

Showing new movies BEFORE they hit DVD every weekend! Movies play on Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights in the Smith Student Center Theater!

Cooperative Activities

Legal

Located in the Smith Student Center, providing student organizations with an on campus banking system.

SGA provides all students with 15 minutes of free legal advice with our Lawyer.

Homecoming Every year, SGA organizes homecoming events and runs the election system for King and Queen.

www.srsga.org

sga@sru.edu sga@sru edu

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INSIDE SPORTS

Rock Athletes Go Pro Read on to ďŹ nd out how professional athletes like Matt Adams, Myron Brown and Brandon Fusco got their start and found success at Slippery Rock University.

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SPORTS

Rock athletics known for success

ALEX MOWREY/THE ROCKET

The Slippery Rock University football team celebrates winning the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference Championship over Bloomsburg University on Nov. 15, 2014. The Rock won the game 28-26.

By Brian HepďŹ nger Sports Editor

Slipper y Rock University's sports teams have always had success at every level, but since 2000, SRU has had multiple big events and has won some huge games.

"Things have really come together here with many sports," SRU Director of Athletics Paul Lueken said. "We're having a great year. All of our teams, with the exception of one, have qualified for postseason play."

The first important game of the 2000s was when the women's basketball team made it to the Elite 8 in March.

The first big event of the last two decades was when SRU opened its new baseball stadium, Jack Critchfield Park in 2002, the first game occuring on April 12.

This event had 1,256 fans, which was the second largest crowd to attend an NCAA Division II regular-season baseball game at the time.

"That's a jewel, and that facility is a big part of what's happened

here over the last 10 years," Lueken said.

Football has had a very historic history at the Rock. The old stadium, NKT Stadium, was renamed Mihalik-Thompson Stadium at the end of the 2011 season.

"I think the thing that has had the biggest impact on our program overall has been the upgrades at the stadium with the turf and lights," Director of Athletics Paul Lueken said. "That's given us so many more opportunities to do things with our athletic program.

Not just football, but for soccer, lacrosse, field hockey and track and field."

Mo s t re c e nt l y, SRU h a s found extreme success in the Pennsy lvania State Athletic Conference Western Division.

The Rock won the PSAC Championship last season over Bloomsburg on Nov. 15, 2014.

Before that, the team ventured to the University of Michigan to play in the "Big House Battle" against Mercyhurst University on Oct. 18, 2014.

"The football championship was

huge," Lueken said. "We needed to get that done. The trip to the Big House was good too. The only downer of that trip was that we lost, but overall, it was a great experience and a great alumni event."

The men's basketball team has always had a winning attitude, but during the seven seasons that head coach Kevin Reynolds has been at the helm, SRU has risen to new heights.

In March of 2011 and 2013, SRU qualified for the NCAA Division II Tournament.

The team's first playoff win since 1978 also happened during the 2011 season.

Currently, the Rock lost in the second round of the PSAC Tournament to Gannon on Tuesday, March 3.

However, the team is waiting to hear on Sunday whether or not they will be in the NCAA Division II Tournament once again.

Arguably the most successful teams in Rock sports, the men's and women's track and field teams, have always competed for the top spots in the PSAC.

Their best season was from 2007-2008 when both teams won the PSAC Dixon Cup. Both teams also won all four meets at the PSAC Championships that season as well.

Lueken believes that the track and field teams have been the most consistent over the past few decades because of the number of conference finishes, championships and the athletes who have gone onto national competition.

Lueken said his favorite moment, since he's been the Director of Athletics, was when SRU won the Dixon Cup in 2008.

"That proved that we were one of the best overall athletic programs in the PSAC," Lueken said. "That's what we were really striving to get to."

Lueken said that SRU athletics is still striving to improve and get better each year and each season."We wanna continue to move all of our programs forward," Lueken said. "We want to keep moving everybody forward in general. It's a pretty fun place to be right now."

SPORTS

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Former Rock athletes standout at professional level

By Ryan Barlow Assistant Sports Editor

Slippery Rock University has always had a rich history in athletics, and that history has become richer and richer as more former athletes have continued playing sports at a professional level.

Standouts like Matt Adams, Myron Brown and Brandon Fusco top that list, and SRU Associate Athletic Director Torry Rollins is thrilled to be a part of a university that has produced exceptional athletes.

"Slippery Rock has a tremendous athletic tradition," Rollins said. "Going back to the late '80s and early '90s, SRU had a strong Division I wrestling program and a great swimming program. But what really kicked it off was the men's basketball program, led by Myron Brown."

Brown's Slippery Rock career spanned over four years (1987-1991), and he played in front of a sold out crowd at Morrow Field House. The arena would become so packed, that the university had to supply additional seating behind each hoop.

Rollins actually had first hand experience playing against Brown, having been a member of Edinboro's men's basketball team.

"Our biggest rival back then was Slippery Rock," Rollins said. "Brown was such an exceptional athlete, and for my generation he really put Slippery Rock on the map. Every time we played him this place was packed, and people were very aware of the amount of attention and press he was receiving."

After graduating from SRU, Brown declared for the 1991 NBA Draft where he was chosen 34th overall in the second round by the Minnesota Timberwolves. Brown lasted just one year with Timberwolves before making the jump to the Continental Basketball Association (CBA) and played with the Fort Wayne Fury. He bounced around both the CBA and the United States

PHOTO COURTESY OF TRIBUNE NEWS SERVICE

Former baseball player Matt Adams hits a homerun in game two of the National League Championship Series against the San Francisco Giants on Oct. 12, 2014.

Basketball League for six years before playing overseas for eight seasons. Brown retired from basketball in 2006 as a member of the Detroit Wheels of the American Basketball Association.

Fusco played Rock football from 2006-2010, where he earned numerous Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference (PSAC) honors as well as All-American Honors as the team's center. He also became the first player in SRU history to be invited to and play in the Senior Bowl.

Fusco was drafted by the Minnesota Vikings in the sixth round of the 2011 National Football League Draft, and currently remains on the Vikings roster as a starting guard. He signed a five-year $25 million contract extension in September.

Perhaps the most notable of former Rock athletes is current St. Louis Cardinals first baseman Matt Adams.

Adams holds the SRU career records at batting average (.473) and slugging percentage (.754). He was drafted by St. Louis in the 23rd round of the Major League Baseball Draft. Adams made his Major League debut May 20, 2012.

The most prolific moment of his career to this point was his go-ahead three-run home run off of 2014 Cy Young Award winner Clayton Kershaw in game four of the National League Divisional Series.

Adams' number 25 was retired by SRU in February.

"Our baseball coach (Jeff Messer) always tells me he knew Matt was good

when he recruited him," Rollins said.

"The baseball program here sends a lot of people to the minor leagues, but it's very awesome to see one of our guys make it big and have success so early in his career."

The success of these athletes at the professional level have given students, faculty, and alumni a sense of pride.

"Athletic teams are the face of a university," Rollins said. "Whether they are doing good or bad, they will be on the front page. We know that it's what drives some potential students to come here. To have these types of players go on to the professional level is just a major accomplishment."

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CAMPUS LIFE

INSIDE CAMPUS LIFE

Alpha, Beta, What?!

Mmm, Mmm, Good

Interested in learning more about fraternities and sororities? Read on to learn about the pledging process and how going Greek can offer benefits during and after college.

Looking for some good eats on and off campus? Bread and Butters' Kelsey Phillips dishes on the best places to eat, and how to spend your meal swipes and flex wisely.

See Page C-3

See Page C-7

SRU students voted, and t he b est p

izz

a is ...

REBECCA DIETRICH / THE ROCKET

Between the on-campus Boozel and Rocky's pizza, and off-campus places like La Famiglia, Coffaro's and Domino's, Coffaro's won king of the pizza in our online poll. Results based on approximately 650 total votes.

Building a new home in a far away place Advice for leaving home, taking chances, making friends

Alex Mowrey Commentary Alex Mowrey is a senior emerging technology and multimedia major from San Diego, California and the photo editor of The Rocket.

To all those traveling from far distances to SRU, First off, let me start out by saying congratulations and welcome to your new home. I know you may think that you are now far away from your real home but trust me when I say, Slippery Rock can be your home away from home. I am from sunny San Diego, California and now coming into my last semester as a senior I cannot say I have regretted a single day here at college.

A word of advice is to give this place a chance. I know what it is like to be far away from your home and family, it’s scary. But this is going to be the best time of your life.

After high school I made the big decision to come out here to western Pennsylvania to pursue my degree in communication. I spent those first couple months being a little homesick and that is okay. It is normal to miss home, you spent 18 years of your life living there and it became so warm and comforting..

IMAGE COURTESY GOOGLE MAPS, INFORMATION FROM SRU OFFICE OF UNDERGRADUATE ADMISSIONS

Incoming freshmen students will be entering from across the U.S. this fall. On the map above, out of state students are represented by a blue marker, while in-state students are denoted in orange. An interactive version of the map can be found on http://theonlinerocket.com.

It is hard to leave all that behind, but school is here to help you build a new home.

Don’t be afraid of college, get involved.

I jumped headfirst into extra-curricular activities and I can say that they really helped me fall in love with this place and I think you will too.

Never be afraid to talk to people and make friends. The friends I made during my first few weeks are still my friends today, I even live with some of them still. These will be the friends that stay with me forever. I think it is safe to say I have even found some of my groomsmen during my time here.

Slippery Rock may be small, but the potential for greatness is huge. We offer countless ways for students just like you to succeed; a career center that will help you build a job worthy resume, a student development suite to help you get involved on campus and more. There are so many things to do here to make you feel right at home.

After four years I can truly say that Slippery Rock became my home and I hope it can become yours as well. Whether you are from Walla Walla, Washington or Timbucktu, Slippery Rock could be a home for you.

CAMPUS LIFE How to have a true college experience C-2

Joseph Szalinski Commentary Joseph Szalinski is a junior creative writing and professional writing dual major from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

College can be that extremely overwhelming period in one’s life where there’s a confluence of responsibility and excitement. College is a time reserved for becoming engaged in

rigorous study, but also for cutting lose, finding new friends, finding one’s self and sharing in a wealth of new experiences. Just from my own experiences, I can say that attending Slippery Rock has been incredibly beneficial to understanding who I am as a person and what I want to do.

I was never one to really try all too much in high school, instead preferring to barely get by and not become involved in anything necessarily meaningful and productive. Do I have regrets? No, but I wouldn’t recommend that course for anyone else.

Not being all too motivated, but more so, insanely confused as to what I actually wanted to do with my life, I attended community college for my first two years. Doing so helped me understand what major I wanted to pursue (after switching a few times), and it allowed me to develop a work

ethic, which was previously unknown to me. I still operated in the same narrow existence that I operated in during high school, but I started to become aware that I needed to do something different and almost have a fresh start. Coming to Slippery Rock provided me with such opportunity.

It’s my opinion that college is a trialand-error process. It’s okay to make mistakes and to totally not know what to do at every step of the way. College is a time to learn, and sometimes the best lessons come from making mistakes.

The heart of the college lesson is not only learning how to bounce back after these making mistakes, but also how to integrate this experience into one’s behavior and learn how not to error in the future.

Education is costly, but ignorance is even more so. Our education at Slippery Rock provides us a way to

become significantly more well rounded individuals, while helping us learn the necessary skills for future careers. But there is more than just the classroom. Creating meaningful friendships and contacts through peers and roommates, makes the whole process easier. Join a club, seriously, not only is it something constructive to do, but joining a club shows that there is more than just partying as a means to have a good time.

Explore campus; get to know the faculty and the buildings, and even the surrounding town. Get to feel like campus is your home away from home.

It makes the whole process way easier to deal with. Yes, this whole thing is overwhelming, but it’s far more rewarding. It just takes initiative, and we’re all in this to help one another out.

That’s the real college experience.

Involvement can make or break your experience in college

Victoria Davis Commentary Victoria Davis is a freshman English Secondary Education major from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

If you look at the next few years of your life as being only about test scores, discussion posts and midterms, you are not going to grow as a scholar or as a person. That mindset is also not all that it takes to get employment in many fields, despite what

educators may have told you to the contrary. A 4.0 is just a number if not coupled with experience and interest. USA Today says, “to get your resume in that ‘yes’ pile, get involved on campus right away!” Organizations are a great way of taking a break from stress and course work while still doing something important, relevant, and fun.

I am a part of four organizations, one of which I am on the executive board, two of which I try to be actively involved in, and one in which I change my mind about every week. I have never had such a fulfilling educational experience. At the collegiate level, clubs and organizations are not just extra curricular activities to fill time, they are part of a larger experience. They are supplemental learning material and windows of opportunity rolled into a place you can feel safe and make friends.

Aside from the personal gains, dedication to an organization is a great resume builder, and many employers say high involvement on campus is just as important as that sought after 4.0. There are clubs on campus not just for interests but also majors, which look especially appealing on

a resumé. For example, the SEFE Club caters to Secondary Education majors, while the Exercise Science Society will best serve the major that shares its name.

If you want to do something simple to get involved, join a club. Go to an interesting meeting, especially if it involves something you are passionate about.

There is no harm in going to a meeting or putting your name on an email list and you cannot explore too many facets of the university.

The reason you meet your life long friends at college is not because suddenly everyone is nice and the people you were not fond of in high school do not exist, it is because you can choose with whom you want to spend your time. You can choose to surround yourself with people who care about the ideas that excite you, who believe in the same ideologies as you, or are passionate about the same social issues that you feel strongly about.

College is an experience not a grade, and the more you explore that idea, the more fulfilling your time here will be.

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CAMPUS LIFE

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Going Greek offers leadership development, lasting friendships

By Rebecca Sheriff Rocket Contributor

As part of the Center for Student Involvement and Leadership, SRU's Greek Life is home to eight sororities and 10 fraternities, each organization ranging in size, interest area(s), eligibility specifications and member requirements and responsibilities. There are also two types of Greek Governing Councils on campus, the PanHellenic Council and the Interfraternity Council. Sororities and fraternities can be affiliated with a specific major or can just be a close-knit community.

Senior psychology major, member of the Alpha Omicron Pi sorority and Order of Omega Greek honorary, and president of the PanHellenic Council, Olivia Giger, has varied experiences with different Greek organzations on campus.

“Social Greek organizations have no specific major requirement,” Giger said. “However, each of us supports various philanthropies. We often see that the women and men choose that organization for the cause that they most relate to, in addition to finding a bond with members. Each organization has its own mission, purpose and values. That’s what makes us so unique.”

Each chapter of a sorority or fraternity on campus represents the national values of the Greek organization, and offers members the chance to become part of vast alumni networks.

By going Greek, students are welcomed into an established community on campus that offers opportunities for scholarship, leadership and volunteer service. Members also often find lifelong sisters and brothers within their chosen group, and many current members describe going Greek as the best decision they’ve made while attending Slippery Rock.

In order to become involved in a Greek organization, one must first pass through a series of events that differs for each group. Interested

students d speak k with h current Greekk members b about the specific details of the fraternity or sorority, and then attend subsequent events that allow current brothers and sisters the opportunity to get to know the “pledge class” students.

These events often start during the Weekend of Welcome and range from Round Robbins, where students visit each of the organizations every day, do ice-breaker activities, “Meet the Greeks” events, etc. After potential members have had time to evaluate which Greek organization best fits their personality and values, current members offer a “bid” to prospective members.

These bids serve as a formal invitation into the fraternity or sorority. Sororities within the PanHellenic Council have a much more structured rush process than fraternities in the Interfraternity Council.

After receiving a bid, many Greek organzations have a “new member education process,” where new members learn about the history of the organization, requirements to remain an active member, and the values and morals the organization accepts as a whole. It is after this process that new members are formally initiated into the sorority/fraternity and can receive their letters.

The benefits of going Greek are numerous according to Giger, and current Greek Life members rave about the benefits and opportunities associated with being a part of a sisterhood or brotherhood.

“Greek Life made me who I am today,” Giger said. “I owe my ability to lead, my passion for giving back to others, my desire to become better academically and my need to continuously improve who I am to the men and women of the Greek Community,” Giger said she’s also had several opportunities to go to conventions with her sorority, take on several leadership roles, meet many new people, learn more about the world, and how to give back to the world to make it a

better b place. l “Being a part of Pi Kappa Alpha has truly challenged me to be a better leader and friend, putting others before myself,” senior early childhood and special education major, Pi Kappa Alpha brother, Interfraternity Council member and President of the Order of Omega, Jared Stanley, said. “Within the fraternity we have a mentoring program, ‘big/littles,’ which give you the chance to learn from someone who has been through the ups and downs in college and can help guide you through your experience.”

“Greek Life has benefited me in multiple ways,” senior dance major, member of Alpha Sigma Phi, Order of Omega Vice President, and member of the Interfraternity Council, Ryan McMullen, explained. “It has taught me to effectively network with its’ members and other organizations on campus. I have had extensive administrative experiences and it has made me more marketable to get a job in the future.”

Speaking directly to the incoming class of students, current Greek members have explained that going Greek can give you an immediate sense of belonging on campus and a family away from home. Each of SRU’s organizations is so unique, and with some time you will be able to find the organization that best suits you. Understanding the reasons behind pledging an organization is important, and taking on leadership opportunities as soon as possible will benefit students later on in their academic and professional career.

Greek members also stressed that Greek Life is more than just the negative stereotypes that have a spotlight in movies and on television.

“Greeks are constantly targeted for the negatives, but rarely are they acknowledged for the positive that they do,” Stanley stated. “Every day Greeks are doing something positive on this campus, but they aren’t doing it for recognition – they are doing it because that’s what they should be doing.”

Joining clubs gives new students advantages, opportunities

By Katie Ellis Campus Life Editor

Moving from high school to college or transferring to a new school can be difficult for a student, but becoming involved in the clubs and organizations offered on campus are ways to help adjust to a new school. Slippery Rock University has over 150 clubs and organizations available for students to be a part of, ranging from faith-based to academic to social Greek organizations that can provide them with worthwhile experiences that can’t be taught in the classroom.

The Slippery Rock Student Government Association (SGA) is an organization dedicated to serving student needs and voicing student concerns across campus in order to make their voices heard. Its ethics statement, “SGA is all E.A.R.S,” reinforces the idea that the organization will enhance, advocate, represent and support student interests from the freshman to the graduate level through the work of its executive board and senators.

Senior early childhood and special education major, Katie Hill, 21, became involved during her sophomore year after being elected the residence hall senator for Watson Hall, later became a commuter senator and now holds the title of SGA President. Hill acts as liaison between the student body and the administration and oversees the senate’s 35 members and the

projects they’re working on.

“This just seemed like the next step for me on my leadership journey,” Hill said. “I have a huge passion not only for Slippery Rock, but also for the students here. This is just one way I could continue giving back to the university that has given me so much.”

Freshmen interested in joining SGA have the opportunity to run for one of four freshman senator positions or an open residence hall senator seat after filling out an application, attending a formal SGA meeting and receiving the most votes from current members. Hill believes that becoming involved on campus has helped her grow as a leader and a person, and she encourages new students to do the same.

“The reason why I encourage them to get involved is because you get so many opportunities through it, like meeting new people and you get to be a part of an organization that’s thriving and functioning very well,” Hill said.

Students that want to show their school spirit can join Green and White Society, an organization known for its dedication to promoting SRU’s four traditions, providing entertainment for students at sporting events and working with alumni to create networking opportunities. Every semester, Green and White Society holds a three-step recruitment process that asks students to fill out an application, attend a group event like fall’s Homecoming or spring’s birthday celebration and complete

Poppy

Brooke Griffin is a sophomore communication major from Meadville, Pennsylvania.

a personal interview with committee members.

Junior business management major and communication minor, Samantha Rivet, 21, has been actively involved in the society since fall 2012, and previously served as its recruitment chair. Rivet knew that when she came to SRU she wanted to be involved on campus and be a part of an organization that promoted traditions.

“I love promoting school spirit and tradition, and I also thought that it would be a great way to be involved and meet other people and form lifetime friendships,” Rivet said. “I wanted to do something that showed my passion and love for Slippery Rock to others.”

Beyond promoting school pride, Green and White Society gives students opportunities for professional growth through the Backpacks to Briefcases program which helps students network with alumni, and the Case ASAP conference where members of the society are able to make presentations on the best ways to better their organization.

Backpacks to Briefcases allows for students to mingle with alumni to talk about their journey with Slippery Rock and the conference gives students the chance to meet people from other schools and learn about their organizations, Rivet said.

An institution known for its teaching program, SRU has several clubs and organizations on campus specific to education majors and for those that have

a passion for working with kids. While its mission is to help members get a better understanding of the College of Education and prepare them for teaching in the future, the Early Childhood Club is open to students from all majors.

The majority of its members are freshmen and sophomores that want to gain professional experience and practice working with children. Senior early childhood and special education major and former Early Childhood Club treasurer, Connor MacKelvey, 22, believes that becoming involved will help distinguish a student from their peers when job hunting in the future.

“This club is going to put you one step ahead of everyone else that has the same degree as you,” MacKelvey said. “When you join this organization you’re going to understand how you can build your resume based off of events that we have, and you’re going to grow as an educator in understanding what you can and can’t have on social media.”

As a transfer student, MacKelvey learned from personal experience that getting involved as a new student is a great way to network and that it’s important that students get involved during their first year.

“It’s essential that students on campus get involved because not only are they going to reap the benefits of working with other people that have the same interests in values as them, but they’re also going to grow as a person as well,” MacKelvey said.

By Brooke Griffin

Follow this QR code to see a tour of the CSIL Office Suite.

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Why Go Greek?

What the women of SRU

Panhellenic have to tell you:

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ΑΞΔ ΑÎ&#x;ΠΑΣΤ ΔΖ ÎŁÎŁÎŁ ÎŚÎŁÎŁ Want to learn more?

@SRUPanhellenic

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PAGE DESIGN BY KARLEIGH SANTRY

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CAMPUS LIFE

Boozel Dining Hall

SRU’s largest dining hall, an all-you-can-eat facility offering a variety of homestyle meals, pizza and pasta, salad bar, bakery and more

All, Buffet-style

Campus Drive Grill

Enjoy gourmet grilled cheese and outdoor seating with this on-campus food truck

Sandwiches, Fries, Salads

Flatz Express

A quick snack stop between classes or studying located in Watson Residence Hall

Coffee, Snacks, Breakfast

Quaker Steak & Lube

Wings and spicy sauces are the stars of the menu at this restaurant counter

Wings, Burgers, Fries

I read that you're a senior, and now that you're graduating this year, what do you wish that you would've known four years ago? Was your college experience everything that you hoped it would be, or is there something that you wish you would've done differently?

Sincerely, Looking Back

Answer:

Dear Looking Back,

Four years ago feels like a lifetime ago, but I find myself saying, “I wish I would’ve known that three years ago!,” quite a lot these days.

Amongst the many things that I’ve learned over the years, there are a few that I would’ve liked to know coming into college.

College is for growing, making mistakes, and finding out who you are. Now that you have this freedom from your parents and you’re making decisions independently, your comfort boundaries are going to be tested. For as bad as this may seem, it’s really not. This is the only way you’re going to grow as a person.

Being uncomfortable is not a bad thing.

Keep in touch with people that matter. I spent the first two or three years of college only worrying about what was going on in my life and later realized my best friend was having a hard time at college. Make sure to look outside of yourself and check up on others because friendships from high school can last into college and beyond.

Learn to love who you are and who you’re becoming. If you don’t love it, then change it so that you do. For many years, I did things only to impress or please people instead of just being myself and having people like me for me. I got lost in being what other people wanted and couldn’t find myself. It’s important to know who you are and what you want in life because if people don’t like you then they don’t deserve to be in your life, plain and simple.

Don’t hate on others. We live in a competitive culture of comparison with a large dose of self-consciousness added on top. I find myself looking at other people and attempting to make myself feel better by subconsciously putting them down. There is no need for that. Be confident in who you are and don’t compare yourself to others. Everyone has unique qualities that make them beautiful so look for that instead of having such negative feelings towards others. We’re all in this beautiful struggle called life together, so don’t make it worse by automatically hating on others for no reason.

I hope this gives you some insight on how to make your college experience the best it can be! I know that we learn best from our own experiences but my wish for you is that you adapt these pieces of advice and apply them to your life. I think they’d make a big difference!

Andi

Need Advice?

Ask Andi about anything Visit theonlinerocket.com

Rocky’s

Starbucks

Classic coffees, pastries and “Unplugged” open mic events

Coffee, Pastries, Sandwiches

T&B Naturally

Located in the Bailey Library for study breaks or a cup of coffee on the way to class

Coffee, Smoothies, Bagels, Snacks

Weisenfluh

A new take on fast-food in a modern setting

Tex-Mex, Chinese, Burgers, Mediterranean

Eateries on and off campus at Slippery Rock University offer a wide variety of delicious options - from an all-you-can-eat buffet style dining hall to Bob's Famous Subs and everything in between. This guide lists area dining halls and restaurants in two simple ways: on-campus locations that typically serve students living in the dorms and attending classes, and off-campus locations that are a short walk or drive away from the university.

Please note that this is not a comprehensive list of dining options, and visit http://sru.

avifoodweb.com/ for oncampus hours, specials and contact information. For off-campus locations, visit the establishment's website, Facebook and/or Twitter page for the most current hours and specials.

There really is something for everyone - from the busy student-athlete to those with food intolerances or allergies.

Check out the listings below and see what tempts your taste buds!

Dining Guide Lingo: Meal Swipe – Using your meal plan by swiping your student ID card at a dining

Kelsey Phillips "Bread and Butters" Kelsey Phillips is a junior public relations major and a regular contributor to The Rocket.

OFF Campus

Cuisine

B&J’s Coney Island

Split into a restaurant-side and drafthouse-side, local entertainment for 21 and older

Hot Dogs, Burgers, Sandwiches, Fries, Bar

Bob’s Subs

All subs served on toasted roll with provolone cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, onions, Italian dressing and mayo – typically not negotiable, but trust me, these guys know how to make a sub

Subs, Chips, Beverages

Coffaro’s Pizza

Combined pizza place and bowling alley

Pizza, Calzones, Stromboli, Subs, Salads

Camelot Restaurant

Small diner setting, home of the $.99 breakfast and a cinnamon bun as big as your head

Classic homemade meals, Pies

En Lai

Delivery is more popular than the sit-down buffet

Chinese

Fox’s Pizza Den

Home of the Big Daddy 21-cut pizza, football game specials

Pizza, Breadsticks, Wings

Ginger Hill Tavern

Restaurant by day, karaoke bar Fries, Nachos, by night. Casual dining inside or Salads, Sandwiches, outside on patio, late night must Pastas, Chicken, be 21 or older Seafood, Bar

La Famiglia Pizza and Pasta House

Casual Italian dining, weekly specials

Pizza, Pasta, Salads, Desserts

North Country Brewery

Casual sit-down restaurant and brewpub, local entertainment, family-friendly, killer French fries and bread in a flower pot

Appetizer plates, Salads, Sandwiches, Burgers, Chicken, Seafood, Pasta, Desserts, Bar

Click in the "About" tab, and click "Feedback"

Delivery

Dinner

Offers customizable subs, salads Subs, Wraps, Pizza, and wraps as well as fresh fare To-go, Snacks to-go and weekly specials

Elia Only

Elia Only

location.

Ex: 1 Swipe = 1 meal Flex – Essentially dollarfor-dollar “spending money” that is on your student ID card, comes with most meal plans in various amounts, reloadable.

Ex: Starbucks Coffee for $2.37, not a "meal" unit.

Rock Dollars – similar to a debit or prepaid cash card associated with your student ID, swipe ID and punchin PIN number, works on campus as well as a handful of local businesses, reloadable.

Ex:Notebook at SGA Bookstore for $3.00

Delivery

Dear Andi,

Dinner

Question:

Lunch

Andi is a senior at SRU giving advice to those who seek it and occassionally to those who don't.

Cuisine

Lunch

ON Campus

Breakfast

Where and when to dine at Slippery Rock

Breakfast

Ask Andi

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