The Avion Orientation Issue Fall 2023

Orientation Issue • Fall 2023

Hello & Welcome

Welcome, Eagles! I’m so excited to see everyone back on campus! If it’s your rst time here, I hope you love it as much as I do!

My name is Evgeniia Egorova (Jane), and I’m the president of the Student Government Association (SGA)! I’m an international student from Russia and Spain, and I’m a senior studying business administration. Like anyone moving away from home, I was extremely nervous about coming to a new place. However, once I got here, I realized that this campus is brimming with beautiful buildings and sights and has the best professors, courses, peers, and career opportunities. Now that you’re here, get out of your comfort zone. Challenge yourself to try new things and take the opportunity to grow academically and professionally through utilizing resources such as the tutoring center and career services.

Make friends and connections with fellow students; they are one of the biggest parts of your college experience! Make sure to visit the Activities Fair to join clubs, organizations and Greek life, go to the sports games, get involved in research and, of course, the SGA! Learn to become a better leader, public speaker, and in uencer outside the classroom. College is your time to gure out who you are, become a better person, and leave your mark on this community.

e fact that you’re here shows that you’ve already accomplished so much and have the work ethic to accomplish even more. I encourage you to embrace your authentic self and rise to this new challenge in your life. Know that you have a strong support system willing to help you if needed. As the SGA, we focus on making ERAU a welcoming and safe environment for all students. We prioritize your social, academic, and professional development through workshops, events, and professional opportunities. Make sure to stop by the Student Leadership Suite on the second oor of the Student Union, grab some free candy and co ee, and say hi to us! We would love to chat and learn more about who you are.

Once again, welcome to Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University! Make sure to be authentically you, step out of your comfort zone and create a positive impact on this community.

Sincerely,

Evgeniia Egorova President, Student Government Association Bachelor of Science in Business Administration

HIGHLIGHTS OF THIS ISSUE

ADVICE FROM THOSE WHO HAVE WALKED BEFORE YOU

Hear stoies and perspective from students who wish they knew what they know now.

HOW RAs CAN HELP YOU SUCCEED

A guide on how you can access an invaluable on-campus resource, your Resident Advisor!

EAGLES FIGHTING HUNGER

Hear about an resource not often talked about on campus and how to get access or involved.

10 13 18

ENGINEER ADVICE

Join one of our engineers for a AE Survival Guide. Giving a new perspective while you navigate these next few years.

STUDY SPACES TO CONSIDER & AVOID

Hear about where the best study spots are oncampus before they are taken.

SESU UPCOMING EVENTS

If you need a way to destress during a busy week, SESU has you covered! Check out when the next event is.

Advice From

Those Who Have Walked Before You

‘“Be involved’ is one of the best pieces of advice I heard when I came into Riddle. The first semester can be very stressful and overwhelming with getting used to a new city and seeing how different college is from high school. It can be difficult with tons of homework, but joining clubs is a great way to take a break and meet people. There are so many students that have suffered through the same classes you will be suffering through, and they can help. Being part of The Avion has been helpful for me because I can get time to refocus before going back to my homework. The people who contribute to The Avion are an amazing group that strives to lift each other up.

Another thing is don’t take 8 a.m. classes unless you can do mornings. Yes, some courses are only offered then, but if you have a choice, I don’t recommend it. For the Aviation Maintenance Science (AMS) students, we don’t have a choice with 8 a.m. classes. AMS is a tough, hands-on major, but it’s completely worth it. I love it because there are few lectures, and it’s focused on learning the tools and making things. If you don’t know what you want to do, or you think the major you’re in isn’t for you, it’s ok, and I think you should take a tour of the maintenance building.”

Erin Dillman Aviation Maintenance Science Junior

“Welcome, Eagles! Whether you’re starting your college journey or returning to the Embry-Riddle experience, welcome. I’m here to offer a few words of advice, specifically to the international students who have crossed many hurdles to get here. Trust me; I’ve been there.

One of the most important tips will probably be one you’ll hear many times during your first few weeks. Get involved. Getting involved on campus and finding your place in Embry-Riddle’s larger community will get you very, very far. But aside from getting involved, I want to talk a bit about building your support system on campus and the importance of self-care.

Wherever you are in your college education, adjusting to a new city, degree program, or new set of classes is challenging. It’s almost inevitable that there will be days of trial when you just want to go home, take a nap, and forget about everything that’s going on. In these times, your support system is crucial. Many folks rely on friends back home, their parents, siblings, or even their new roommates to keep them afloat when they need extra love and support. Others may turn to friends made in clubs and organizations, and many others take advantage of oncampus facilities such as the Dean of Students, Center for Faith and Spirituality, or the Counseling Center.

Whatever you choose, please make sure to have a strong support system that will allow you to achieve your goals and keep your head up. Don’t be afraid to reach out to others when you need to, and remember any progress is good progress. College is tough, but you are built tougher and stronger. Have a great semester, and I wish you all the best.”

Dylan Kowlessar Aeronautical Science Senior

“Welcome to your new home, Eagles! Some of you have come from afar, while some traveled down the road to attend Embry-Riddle. A million questions are probably buzzing through your mind as you start this new journey. The Avion asked seven upper-class ROTC students for advice they would love for you to hear.

Wait! Even if you aren’t an incoming Midshipman or Cadet, these little pieces of advice may serve you just as well:

“As tough or harsh as it may seem at times, your upperclassmen and instructors are there to support you. Ask them for help if you need it!”

-Senior Navy Midshipman

“Find a way to get organized and stay organized. You are going to have deadlines and events for your academics, for ROTC, and for yourself. Don’t over-commit, and don’t be afraid to tell someone you are overwhelmed or that you need help.”

-Senior Navy Midshipman

“Be yourself! Don’t let college change you or try to fit in. You’ll find your people here.”

-Junior Navy Midshipman

“Talk to your instructors and cadre. Mentorship makes all the difference.”

-Junior Army Cadet

“Don’t limit yourself and opportunities available to you by saying no before anyone else gets the chance to; apply for everything, even if you don’t think you’re qualified!”

-Junior Army Cadet

“Plug in and find some solid people, then grind it out!”

-Junior Army Cadet

“You, as an incoming freshman, have chosen to join ROTC, not the academy. Live your college life, put in the work in school and ROTC, but enjoy the freedom and responsibilities that come with it. Be disciplined in the classroom, at PT, and drill in order to relax and take care of yourself. Enjoy every moment of college because when you’re a senior, you’ll regret it if you don’t.”

-Junior Air Force Cadet

An overall piece of advice: ask questions! As a freshman in college, you are a sponge, plain and simple. Ask your new friends, your new mentors, your ROTC instructors, and your fellow Midshipmen or Cadets as many questions as you can. You will be glad you spoke up, and your confidence will grow immensely with all of your new knowledge.”

Jacob Rainerson Aeronautics Senior

RAs: They’re Not Just Here to Bust Your Parties How Your Resident Advisor Can Help You Transition to College

ARTICLE BY DYLAN KOWLESSAR / Staff Designer PHOTOS BY EMBRY-RIDDLE AERONAUTICAL UNIVERSITY AND MADISON SEYMOUR

So you’ve made it to college. Congratulations! Wherever you are in your college journey, adjusting to a new environment can be exhilarating but overwhelming for many students. International and first-generation students, especially, can benefit from the excitement and freedom of independence, but will, inevitably, endure challenges and uncertainties. Thankfully, if you’re living on campus, all residents can access an invaluable resource - your Resident Advisor (RA). Each community of about 30 or so residents is assigned an RA, who is specially trained to help support residents by enforcing policies, fostering a sense of community, and offering words of advice when needed.

During these crucial first few weeks, the importance of community cannot be emphasized enough. Utilizing the support of your RA and roommates or suitemates can make a significant difference in easing your college transition. Of course, a community can be found in clubs and organizations, your degree programs, departments you may engage with, and just on campus as a whole. This article focuses specifically on the community found in your residence halls.

Here are some ways your Resident Advisor can help you succeed:

1. Mentoring and Fostering A Sense of Community: RAs are experienced students trained to guide and assist you in college. RAs organize events and wing meetings

where you can meet fellow residents and form friendships. These activities not only foster a sense of community but also help you to become familiar with the campus culture.

Taking the initiative and actively participating in these community-building efforts around you is crucial. On-campus clubs, organizations, and community events present opportunities to explore your interests, build leadership skills, and network within the community.

Involvement in extracurricular activities enriches your college experience in more ways than you can imagine. Don’t hesitate to ask for help or seek advice from your RA and roommates; they understand the challenges of transitioning to college and are eager to lend a helping hand.

2. Conflict Resolution: Sharing a living space with someone you’ve probably never met before can lead to conflicts. RAs are trained to mediate and resolve conflicts smoothly, ensuring a harmonious living arrangement. If all goes well, your roommates can become your first friends, further reinforcing a sense of belonging and reducing feelings of isolation and homesickness.

3. Safety and Well-being: Your RA is there to address safety concerns and support you in times of personal crisis. RAs can offer a listening ear during times of stress, connect you with Counseling services, and should be

an integral part of your support system.

In conclusion, the first few weeks at college are a time of discovery, growth, and forming connections. Embracing the power of community and accessing the support of your RA and roommates can be a gamechanger in your college experience. By building these relationships and engaging with the rest of the college community, you’ll find a strong support system to help you settle into college life and contribute to your growth throughout your career. So, step out of your comfort zone, reach out to your resources, and make the most of the vibrant community around you.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

University personnel is always available to respond to incidents and emergencies when they arise. For your convenience and reference, please take note of these important contacts:

During business hours (8 a.m.- 5 p.m., M-F), contact the Housing and Residence Life office: 386-323-8000

Outside business hours, contact the relevant RA-on-Duty:

a. Apollo: 386-290-4814

b. Doolittle: 386-290-9714

c. Chanute: 386-295-2416

d. New Res 1: 386-295-2590

e. New Res 2: 386-212-7872

f. New Res 3: 386-316-0189

g. Student Village: 386-295-2069

Campus Safety is available 24/7 to respond to emergencies: 386-226-7233

Entrance to New Residence Hall 1.

New Residence Hall 2 Resident Advisors during the 2022/23 academic year.

Entrance to the Student Village Atrium.

So, you decided to become an Aerospace Engineer? Perhaps, you did so because deep within you, there was always a desire to explore the farthest reaches of space, revolutionize the airline industry, or simply have eternal bragging rights a er completing your degree. Who doesn’t want to say, “ is isn’t rocket science?”

A er four long years of studying Aerospace Engineering, I hope to provide you with a guide to what the next four (or ve) years of your life have to o er. is article is my declassi ed aerospace school survival guide.

the most freedom you’ve ever had and only one responsibility: somehow learning how to design the future of the aerospace industry. So, with that in mind, here’s my rst tip…

mind that as you progress in your degree program, the number of your assignments and assessments may exponentially increase, leaving you with very little time. Don’t spread yourself too thin, and remember…

You’re in a brand-new school with brand-new opportunities to meet likeminded individuals. Maybe you came from a school o ering 100 AP classes, or, perhaps, you have yet to draw a free-body diagram. Regardless, you now nd yourself in a setting where no one knows each other. You have

Everyone here is new and has no idea what they are doing. Your classmates might come across as intimidating super geniuses. Still, you both ended up at the same school with very specialized degrees (name another school with “aeronautical” in its name!), and because of this, there is a strong chance that you both have a lot more in common than you think. So go out there and make new friends because, trust me, here’s a little trade secret: no big-time engineer works alone in the industry; therefore, no engineering student should work alone.

ere are plenty of ways to make new friends, such as clubs. eoretically, you could join a di erent club each day of the week. However, keep in

With this in mind, I hope you enjoy your rst year of college, and I’ll see you next year!

Welcome to the second year, and congrats on beating the introduction year. So now you may notice that, unlike the rst year, where a class covers a hundred di erent topics in just three months, each syllabus focuses on one narrow subject area. Don’t start thinking that it’s all smooth sailing from here….

Drone research conducted in Fall 2022.

A demonstration of a carbon ber knee brace by student Mike Geldart.

Project VALHALLA participants.

Start exploring these challenging topics now because the training wheels have nally come o . Now when it comes to studying to be a great engineer, it’s a lot like training to be a great athlete. Do your homework early to identify your weak points in your classes more easily.

en, as a great way to prepare for your assessments, redo your homework — preferably with a solution sheet if you have one — and note what you keep getting wrong. Keep this going until you can do everything perfectly right without the solution sheet.

“But what if I got the entire homework right the rst time?” you might be saying. Well, trust me, everyone feels smart when they get a 100% on their homework that took seven hours, but when you only have one hour to do the same number of questions on an exam, suddenly, that 100% becomes next to impossible, and you feel frustrated.

erefore, redoing your homework is a good idea. Much like how Messi needed to practice the same goal hundreds of times before he became a world-famous forward player, you

need to redo the same homework you got a 100 on because, with each repeat, the amount of time it takes to complete decreases. Keep this strategy mentally locked away in your brain vault, and soon enough, you will feel like the smart engineer you always were!

I look forward to seeing you next year when times get a bit turbulent.

a practical engineering assignment. It might initially seem overwhelming but remember two key things: breathe and start the project early. If you follow those two rules, you’ll get A’s on these projects, and you will feel like a real engineer.

You’re halfway through your degree. You aren’t just a new engineering student; you are now an associate-level engineer. You might be noticing that now, for the rst time in your degree program, most of your classes have the pre x AE. You could be thinking this is it and that you can nally sail smoothly towards your graduation date. Well, you should always remember the following tip...

You made it to the nish line, and now you can nally countdown to graduation. During this time, you’ll start asking yourself a bunch of questions like “Is it possible for me to get a job without an internship? How long do I have before it’s too late for job hunting? Should I get a master’s degree next year? Is this line on my resume important, or is it nothing but a space ller?”

You will now have fewer exams and homework than before, but that doesn’t mean your coursework will be simple. For example, at this point, you are more likely to have a nal project now than a nal exam. Now while a nal exam involves a lot of studying, a nal project will focus on seeing if you could apply what you learned onto

I know your senior year can be stressful. Trust me, my friend, I’ve been there, and here is a little trade secret. Very few people applied early for their master’s degree; only some got a job before graduating, but most of us took the entire senior year and beyond to get where we wanted to be.

Your fourth year is when one journey ends and another begins. e important thing to remember is that you don’t need to have all the answers right away. You would never need to go to school if you already had them.

In this last year, go out and ask the question that will help you pick your life path, don’t be afraid of admitting you don’t know what to do at all, and, last but not least, enjoy the last few months you have le with your friends who shaped your time at Riddle. So, my dear reader, I leave you with one last piece of advice...

Students showing o their research for Discovery Day in Spring 2023.

Study Spots to Consider and to Avoid This Semester

ARTICLE BY ALISA TISELSKA / Staff Reporter

PHOTOS BY DYLAN KOWLESSAR / Staff Designer

Let’s be honest, studying can be tedious and not fun, to say the least. Luckily, our beautiful campus has many unique and cozy study spots, and hopefully, this list of study locations will increase your productivity and GPA. I hope you find this list of the top three places to study beneficial.

Superior Study Spots

The Student Leadership Suite (SLS)

From 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., the SLS welcomes all returning and new students. It’s a cozy location with six tables, and studying there is a chance to learn more about the Student Government Association (SGA) divisions. Study, make friends with the SGA employees, and consider joining a club on campus. Did I mention that the SGA has free coffee, tea, and hot chocolate? The SLS suite has a Keurig and plenty of beverages to choose from. Who doesn’t need that extra caffeine boost, especially when you have to cram for three exams? Well, it gets better. Most of the time, the front desk has free candy. In February, they usually have little red-heart-shaped chocolate in honor of the most romantic season.

Study Room 103 at the Student Union

Room 103 is the most bright and spacious study room on campus. Located on the first floor of the SU, it can fit up to 12 people. Some amenities include two outlets, a TV, and a whiteboard. Perfect for group study sessions or individual work, this room has a beautiful view of the College of Arts and Sciences (COAS). However, this place could get loud during peak hours (11 a.m.-2 p.m.). Consider bringing your headphones if you plan on being there during those times. Pro tip: don’t forget to reserve this room in advance! You don’t want to get kicked out in the middle of your study session; that’s the worst feeling ever.

Individual cubicles at the library

My third choice is perfect for those who prefer studying alone. Everyone has those days when your social batteries are dead, and you need some you-time. What’s better than an individual cubicle overlooking the COAS, the Wright Brothers Statue, and millions of palm trees? This location is quiet, cozy, and private. No one will find you there. These cubicles are located on the third floor of the SU, in the Hunt Library. The only disadvantage is that you can’t book an individual cubicle in advance.

Although the Student Union is an ideal solution for individual or group cram sessions, there are several places you should absolutely avoid using if you plan on being productive.

Places to Avoid at All Costs

The Booths at the Food Court

Although The Booths are great for chatting with friends, they are terrible for studying. Located at the heart of the food court, this place can get very chaotic and loud. You will see literally everyone you know, and you will not get any work done. This is coming from personal experience; trust me, you don’t want to waste your time there. Leave The Booths for hanging out and grabbing lunch with your friends and find a different place to study.

Study Room 347: The Arctic

This study room is located at the library. Why do I hate it? Unless you want to get sick, don’t study there. Just don’t. No matter what you do to the thermostat, the room is freezing and, for some reason, you can’t change the room temperature at all. I had to do a Zoom meeting there, and I suspect I got a terrible cold immediately after. The room reminds me of the Arctic Ocean. Of course, if you come from a cold country and feel homesick, check out this room.

Hopefully, you enjoyed learning more about some amazing study locations. Studying shouldn’t suck, and I wanted to show you that our campus has a lot to offer. Have a successful semester, work hard, and don’t forget to find (and reserve) your perfect study spot!

Resturant Guide

Located o Dunlawtown Avenune, this a ordable small cafe serves breakfast and lunch staples alongside co ee and pastries. e pastries are made fresh daily, so there’s always something new to try!

Located just o North Nova Road, this sushi resturant features all-you-can-eat, freshmade sushi plates for cheap. ey also have entrees and soups if sushi isn’t your thing. Make sure to arrive with a big appetite to try as many rolls as you want!

Located in One Daytona, this resturant serves up authentic italian cusine and famous fresh-made pizzas. Live music is performed in the resturant to serenade you during your meal. Stop in and relax, and know at Tianos, you’re family.

Located at

Walk, this laidback American restaurant sits on the ocean with a view of the Daytona Beach Bandshell. ey specialize in seafood and have a truly messy sloppy joe sandwich. It’s a great place to stop by and have a meal with friends!

Located in International Speedway Square, this family-friendly pub house serves good, cheap comfort food late into the night. However, be prepared to dedicate some time to your visit, since good food takes time to make.

Located at the corner of Cascade Terrance and State Road A1A, this American cafe prides itself on fresh, made from scratch, locally sourced food. Reservations are recommended as seats lls up fast!

Located in Tanger Outlets, this 1920s style American joint serves up the best burgers in town, and other comfort foods for a reasonable price. Service is fast but make sure to get there early, because wait times can get long.

Ocean

Daytona Beach

Q: How long do I have to submit an appeal?

A: Up to 10 days past the issuance of the citation

Q: How long does it take for the Student Court to process an appeal?

A: It takes the Student Court between 3-5 business days to process an appeal

DAYTONA BEACH CAMPUS MAP

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The Avion is produced monthly during the fall term. The Avion is produced by a volunteer student staff. Student editors make all content, business and editorial decisions. The editorial opinions expressed in The Avion are solely the opinion of the undersigned writer(s), and not those of Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, the Student Government Association, The Avion, or the student body. Letters appearing in The Avion are those of the writer, identified at the end of the letter. Opinions expressed within are those of the identified writer. Letters may be submitted to The Avion for publication, provided they are not lewd, obscene or libelous. Letter writers must confine themselves to less than 1200 words. Letters may be edited for brevity and formatted to newspaper guidelines. All letters must be signed. Names may be withheld at the discretion of the Editor-in-Chief. The Avion is an open forum for student expression. The Avion is a division of the Student Government Association. The Avion is a member of the Associated Collegiate Press. The costs of this publication are paid by both the Student Government Association and through advertising fees. The Avion distributes one free copy per person. Additional copies are $0.69. Theft of newspapers is a crime, and is subject to prosecution and Embry-Riddle judicial action. This magazine and its contents are protected by United States copyright law. No

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