The Battalion - 2020 New Students' Guide to Aggieland

MAROON LIFE NEW STUDENTS’ GUIDE TO AGGIELAND

AGGIEPLATES.TAMU.EDU

AGGIES LIVE ON CONVENIENCE

When you live on campus, it’s easy to get to class on time, drop in during professors office hours, study late at the CLC or campus libraries, and attend student org meetings & events. Studies show students who live on campus are more likely to have a higher GPA, be more involved, and graduate on time.

COMMUNITY When you live on campus you will be surrounded by a more diverse group of students, building friendships that will last a lifetime. Join a Living Learning Community, a residential clustering of students who share academic, social, or cultural interests.

ACADEMIC SUPPORT When you live on campus, you have access to additional resources to enhance your academic experience including residential tutoring, open-access computer labs, study spaces, faculty engagement and involvement, academic achievement events, and interventions.

SECURITY Exterior doors to all residential buildings are locked 24 hours a day, require swiping an access card to enter, and have door prop alarms. In addition to the staff living in the buildings, University Police Department Security Officers regularly patrol the areas outside our residence halls and apartments ensuring exterior doors remain locked.

SUSTAINABILITY Live sustainably when you live on campus. Over 100 recycle bins and over 200 water bottle refilling stations are located throughout the residence halls. Get involved in Aggie Eco-Reps, a student org providing education and promoting sustainability.

Residence Life DIVISION OF STUDENT AFFAIRS reslife.tamu.edu | TAMUResLife

AN

AGGIE’S JOURNEY & THE TRADITIONS ALONG THE WAY RT A ST

DID YOU KNOW?

HOWDY!

When entering Texas A&M as an undergraduate, your Fightin’ Texas Aggie Class Year is typically four years from your freshman year; graduate students typically use the year of graduation.

DID YOU KNOW?

Meet the highest ranking member of the Corps of Cadets and her sophomore mascot corporal

Aggies who transfer to Texas A&M may start their journey through Aggie Transition Camps at Howdy Camp or Transfer Camp.

AGGIEREPLANT

ROOTED IN TRADITION

Begin your Aggie journey

Get INVOLVED at MSC Open House

Become the 12th Man

A chance to volunteer!

REVEILLE

Whoop for the first time

DID YOU KNOW? We remember our fallen Aggies through traditions like Silver Taps (current students) and Muster (current and former students).

Celebrate the end of your freshman year Join the Century Club to give back to the Aggie Network©

DID YOU KNOW? Aggies must acquire 90 hours to get their Aggie Ring.

DID YOU KNOW? Each class has a class color: Green, Infantry Blue, Red and Blue. The colors recycle as the senior class graduates. Find your class color by checking out the Corps uniforms.

90 Hours

Remember your time at A&M Celebrate and come together one last time Get involved with your local A&M Club

VOTE for your class gift

Remember the Spirit of 12

Order your Aggie Ring What will your Class give to the University?

Start your new Aggie journey as a former student

GRADUATION

Visit the Clayton W. Williams, Jr. Alumni Center to get your former student decal

Give back to the community

DID YOU KNOW? Examples of past Class gifts are Fish Pond (c/o 1938) and the Rudder Plaza 12th Man Statue (c/o 1980).

THE ASSOCIATION OF FORMER STUDENTS SUPPORTING PROGR A MS | PROVIDING RESOURCES | CULTIVATING EXPERIENC ES

@AGGIENETWORK

AGGIE NETWORK STUDENT AMBASSADORS @AGGIENETWORKAMB

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TABLE OF CONTENTS 05 || AGGIE DICTIONARY A COLLECTION OF TERMS STUDENTS SHOULD KNOW

06 || STUDENT BODY PRESIDENT MENDOZA PREPARED TO LISTEN AND LEAD

07 || MSC OFFICER TEAM 71ST OFFICER TEAM LOOKS FORWARD TO NEW PROGRAMS

08 || MIDNIGHT YELL HOW GAMEDAY IN AGGIELAND BEGINS

WHY TEXAS A&M? || 17 CURRENT STUDENTS SHARE WHY THEY CHOOSE AGGIELAND

DEAR FRESHMEN || 18 AN OPEN LETTER TO INCOMING STUDENTS

ADVISORS’ TIPS || 19 HOW TO MANAGE CLASS AND FUTURE PLANS

FIRST GENERATION AGGIES || 20 FINDING COMMUNITY, RESOURCES AND ACCESS

STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS || 21 GETTING INVOLVED, FROM SOCIAL TO SERVICE

09 || CORPS OF CADETS A DEEP DIVE INTO A&M’S OLDEST TRADITION

10 - 11 || AGGIE BAND THE FIGHTIN’ TEXAS AGGIE BAND FROM THEN TO NOW

12 - 13 || BONFIRE AGGIES REFLECT ON NOV. 18, 1999

16 || TRADITIONS FAQ ANSWERING THE MOST ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT TRADITION

During the halftime show, The Fightin’ Texas Aggie Band is led onto the field by 12 seniors who are members of Bugle Rank.

Meredith Seaver — THE BATTALION

About the cover: Construction of the Student Services Building concluded in Spring 2020. The area around the building now includes benches and hammocking areas.

Cover photo by Meredith Seaver

THE BATTALION MAROON LIFE 3

Meredith Seaver — THE BATTALION

Texas A&M University’s Jack K. Williams Administration Building was built in 1932 and is located on New Main Drive.

LETTER FROM THE SPECIAL SECTIONS EDITOR Special sections editor Jane Turchi encourages incoming freshmen looking to make Aggieland their home

T

he word unprecedented has been used to describe this past year. As the university and students adjust to the changes made in the spring semester, I find it important to encourage the students who will begin their freshman year in Aggieland this fall.

More than ever, starting a new chapter in life can feel daunting. While college is a big commitment, I encourage you to make the most of it. In this magazine are stories to give a valuable headstart to your freshman year.

A simple refresher of some Texas A&M traditions can save you from yelling the wrong wildcat or missing the first Midnight Yell. You may even have the opportunity to impress upperclassmen by sharing some of the lesser-known history behind A&M’s most famous traditions.

A successful college career begins with good advising. Students can feel prepared knowing more about the online and in-person advising resources. The classes you take and the major you choose are vital to your experience. Many Aggies change majors during their time at A&M, so don’t be afraid to make big changes. It is just important to ask the questions and get assistance from the advisors who are there to help you.

Learn about the Aggies who represent the student body while you are here. Every

year, the student body president runs their campaign on initiatives to benefit students. That means the changes they enact can impact your experience at Aggieland.

The MSC Officer Team works to ensure the Memorial Student Center continues to provide quality programs on campus.

These and other leadership opportunities exist for students hoping to change Aggieland for the better during their time in college.

After a quick skim through the many organizations available at A&M, freshmen can feel overwhelmed. Organizations can be academic, career or social focused.

Students are not limited by the number of organizations they can join, but it is important to not get overwhelmed. It’s often best to invest in a few organizations that you are passionate about.

If you are a first generation student, Aggies have recognized the need for more resources available for students like you.

First Generation Aggies is a new student organization that offers first generation students valuable networking opportunities.

Signing up for classes, applying for scholarships and paying tuition pose big obstacles for students who may be the only one in their family yet to attend college. A&M First Generation Networks within the university’s colleges offer workshops and advising for students with any questions.

Freshman year may seem daunting, but simply ask a sophomore who has made it through. As soon as you make some valuable connections and build your community, A&M feels more and more like home.

This magazine aims to give a heads up on how to be successful at A&M, but (as you will soon discover) there is something more here that makes the experience unlike any other. There are many reasons why you may have chosen to come to A&M. Maybe it is the best school for your major, it’s close to home, or other family members and friends came here before you… All of these are great reasons to come to Aggieland, but Aggies stay here and complete their studies because of the high level of education offered, networking opportunities and the Aggie spirit that they experience during their time in Aggieland.

Throughout my time at A&M, I have learned so much from professors, classmates, coworkers and friends. As I celebrate my own graduation and look forward to the next step, I encourage you to invest in the people and the numerous opportunities around you. Now you are an Aggie and the Aggie family is here for you.

Welcome to the family!

Jane Turchi is an international studies senior and special sections editor for The Battalion

EDITORIAL STAFF Samantha Mahler, Editor-in-Chief Hannah Falcon, Managing Editor Jane Turchi, Special Sections Editor Meredith Seaver, Photo Chief Kaylee Cogbill, Asst. Photo Chief Hollis Mills, Life and Arts Editor Rebecca Morris, Asst. Life and Arts Editor Sanna Bhai, News Editor Julia Potts, Asst. News Editor Henry Mureithi, Opinion Editor Cole Fowler, Arts Criticism Editor Keagan Miller, Asst. Arts Criticism Editor Hannah Underwood, Sports Editor Jackson King, Asst. Sports Editor Robert Castro, Multimedia Editor Vatsal Modgil, Asst. Multimedia Editor Brady Stone, Lead Page Designer Cori Eckert, Page Designer

Suicide Awareness & Prevention Office

ASKING ABOUT

SUICIDE

DOES NOT

INCREASE RISK

NOT ANOTHER

AGGIE

Learn more: caps.tamu.edu/suicideprevention

THE BATTALION MAROON LIFE 5

Aggie Honor Code

2 percenter

AGGIE DICTIONARY

Ag gie Hon or Code - noun, 1: The Texas A&M code of conduct, “An Aggie does not lie, cheat or steal, nor tolerate those who do.”

Ag gie Ring - noun, 1: A traditionally gold ring that is given to students once they reach 90 credit hours to symbolize the Aggie Network.

Also see: Ring dunk, Ring Dance

The Batt al ion - noun, 1: Also known as The Batt, The Battalion is Texas A&M’s official student newspaper that has been in operation since 1893.

Also see: Aggieland Yearbook, The Mugdown

Fish Camp - noun, 1: A&M’s orientation camp where incoming freshmen learn about the traditions and culture at Texas A&M.

For mer Stu dent - noun, 1: The preferred term for a an individual who is no longer a Texas A&M student.

Gig ‘Em - verb, 1: The hand sign tradition of

dent information with the proper login.

Also see: Howdy Week, Howdy dammit

North gate - noun, 1: The entertainment district of College Station that is located on the north side of campus across University Drive.

Also see: The Dixie Chicken

‘Ol Ar my - noun, 1: A term used to speak of a time at A&M that is in the past, or “the good old days.”

Also see: New Army

t.u. - noun, 1: How Aggies refer to their rival, the University of Texas at Austin.

Also see: teasip

Whoop - verb, noun, 1: An expression of excitement that only Aggie upperclassmen and graduates are privileged to use.

Also see: Wildcat

Yell Lead er - noun, 1: Three seniors and two

A&M is a closed fist with a thumb up. The term is coined by pronged spear used to hunt frogs, or a “gig”.

Also see: Horns down

juniors that are elected by the student body to lead the 12th Man in yells during sporting events.

Also see: Midnight Yell, Passback

Good Bull - adjective, 1: Actions that promote

12th Man - noun, 1: The student section at any

traditions and the Aggie spirit.

Also see: Bad Bull

How dy - noun, 1: The official greeting of Texas A&M University, the friendliest campus in the world.

2: A&M’s online portal where faculty, students, former students, applicants and parents/guardians can access stu-

A&M sporting event. 2: A walk-on member of the football team selected to represent the student body and wear the number 12.

Also see: E. King Gill

2 per cent er - adjective, 1: Someone who does not participate in Aggie traditions.

THE BATTALION MAROON LIFE 6

Speaking for the people 2020-2021 Student Body President Eric Mendoza is prepared to lead Aggieland

By Julia Potts @juliaapotts

E

conomics senior Eric Mendoza was elected student body president for the 20202021 school year.

Students, faculty and candidates gathered at the E. King Gill statue on Feb. 21 to await the announcement revealing the leadership positions for this school year, including the SBP. Mendoza most recently served as speaker of Student Senate and has interacted with many groups on campus. In addition to his Bachelor of Science in economics, Mendoza is pursuing his master’s in finance at Mays Business School.

Political science senior Zach McCue, Mendoza’s campaign manager, said he could see Mendoza’s leadership potential from early in their friendship. McCue said Mendoza could do more for Texas A&M as SBP than as speaker of Student Senate.

“He stood up there and his humility and ability to explain his vision was something that instantly caught my eye,” McCue said. “I could tell this was a leader who was going to do something special.”

Mendoza said those around him, including those working on his campaign, should receive recognition in the wake of his victory. He said the relationships built before he started running aided him when he began his

campaign.

“I was certainly overwhelmed with support that I got from my team and from the community around us,” Mendoza said. “I would say that it was very much a humbling experience for many reasons. I think from the start, I really felt blessed to have people around me that supported me.”

In the two and a half years Mendoza has attended A&M, he has been involved in multiple groups on campus, including Student Government Association and the Consulting Club. Mendoza said he plans to use his connections in Koldus to bring his vision of A&M to light.

“The relationships within Koldus, the relationships within the university are going to be super impactful to ensure that we not only know how to function inside of SGA, but know how to bring that and translate that into actual impact on campus,” Mendoza said.

Mendoza said there will not be a learning curve for this position. He said he plans to start performing the initiatives he promised in his campaign immediately with the help of his resources on campus.

“We have a list of things we ran on, a list of things we want to accomplish,” Mendoza

said. “We certainly have a way that we believe we can get that done very quickly.

What really has set us up for success is the fact that we have those relationships built, that we have people around this campus that can help us and we know who to call on.”

Trey Elizondo, Class of 2020 and Mendoza’s speaking manager, said Mendoza told him he wanted to make a difference for the students as SBP. Elizondo said Mendoza was never interested in the title.

“One of the main reasons why I decided to support Eric for student body president is because of his proven track record of what he’s done to make an impact here at Texas A&M,” Elizondo said. “I have never seen him take a leadership role out of the selfishness of wanting to hold the title, but to truly serve the student body of Texas A&M.” Elizondo said Mendoza’s best quality is his honesty with those he works with and the whole student body. Mendoza does not beat around the bush when it comes to issues on campus.

“One thing he’s done as a student leader

N

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ith Seav

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on campus already is to be extremely transparent,” Elizondo said. “Everything he does, he makes it known why he’s doing that and how it’s going to make an impact on campus.”

Mendoza said he intends to bring the thoughts of the student body into SGA to ensure he is leading to the best of his ability.

“The first tasks are sitting down and ensuring that I know what I ran on, and I am keeping myself accountable, people that I hopefully have in my cabinet keeping me accountable to those same standards,” Mendoza said. “That starts with sitting down with leadership around this campus.”

McCue said Mendoza’s humility and generosity as a leader make him the best candidate for the job. McCue said Mendoza is sure to lead the student body well in the year to come.

“He’s a leader because he’s humble,” McCue said. “He knows that people follow somebody who’s not self-centered, who’s not looking out for themself, but who is ultimately looking out for the end goal or the end mission, which is to further the mission of Texas A&M and its student body.”

THE BATTALION MAROON LIFE 7

Continuing a tradition of excellence MSC Officer Team looks forward to 2020-2021 school year, new programs

By Jacob Gauthier @StoryweaverJ As the academic year comes to an end, the leadership of the Memorial Student Center (MSC) has been passed on to a new officer team.

The 71st MSC Officer Team officially took office April 27. The team will create programs and leadership opportunities for the committees within the MSC and everyone on campus for this school year. This new team is focused on producing exceptional work and creating an open culture.

The new MSC president is business honors and management senior Mark Sterling, who has been part of multiple organizations within the MSC, including serving as the outgoing chair for MSC ALOT. Sterling said the 71st MSC Officer Team’s vision for the upcoming year includes continuing the MSC tradition of excellence.

“We just want to continue setting the bar of excellence that past teams have been able to accomplish,” Sterling said. “Specifically, for the executive [team], we want to make sure that our chairs and resource directors have the resources they need to put on the programs that their specific committees want.”

Sterling said the executive team wants to be approachable so chairs feel comfortable coming to them with any questions they might have.

“I know that being able to approach the president and the executive vice presidents in years past has really helped me,” Sterling said.

“We just want to make sure we’re maintaining that high level of communication and efficiency within our organization.”

Under Sterling, there are three executive vice presidents who cover three separate divisions: programs, business and diversity. Chemical engineering senior Andrew Hebert serves as the new executive vice president of programs and said he wants the MSC programs to be continuously improving.

“Every year you want your programs to get better,” Hebert said. “So, that’s one of our main goals, just … allowing [the committee chairs] to come together, share ideas and give critiques to their fellow chairs to make sure their programs are shining stars on campus.”

Hebert’s division is also making changes to

the program approval process for the upcoming year. Business senior and vice president of programs Jamie Loasby, who works under Hebert, said the new process will be more efficient.

“It used to be every single MSC committee in one room approving programs,” Loasby said. “But this year it’s divided up into three different sections: visual performing arts, leadership and then there’s a culture one. Based on the purpose of each committee with the MSC, they’re going to be divided into these program assemblies.”

The officer team is also planning ahead for any challenges that might occur in the next academic year. Biomedical sciences senior and executive vice president of diversity Jaccard Nelson said the team will determine how to move forward with the challenges the coronavirus pandemic may bring.

PROVIDED

Business honors and management senior Mark Sterling will serve as the 2020-2021 MSC President

“We’re really trying to work on contingency plans and figuring out what’s the best course of action, especially due to COVID-19,” Nelson said. “The biggest thing is how are we still going to implement our goals … even if we may be online or may have some sort of social restrictions.”

Those concerns aside, Sterling said he is looking forward to the upcoming year and the opportunities offered by his new position in the MSC. “I’m really excited to see the different programs that get put on,” Sterling said. “I’m really excited about getting to learn about all the committees and how we can best serve them as the executive team.”

Kaylee Cogbill — THE BATTALION

The Memorial Student Center is located at the heart of main campus and is a hub of student life including, bus stops, dining location and the book store.

THE BATTALION MAROON LIFE 8

‘GOT A LITTLE STORY FOR YA, AGS’

At each Midnight Yell, the Yell Leaders tell fables involving Ol’ Rock the Good Meredith Seaver — THE BATTALION Ag.

Midnight Yell remains one of A&M’s most beloved pre-game traditions

By Samantha Mahler @mahlersamantha

B

efore the Texas A&M football team rushes onto the field on game day and the 12th Man stands ready to take action, a tradition unlike any other takes place.

Held at Kyle Field the night before a home football game, Midnight Yell gives Aggies the opportunity to perfect their yells before facing the opposing team the next day. Midnight Yell features singing, storytelling and, of course, plenty of yelling. More than 25,000 people attend Midnight Yell before each home game.

The tradition began in 1913 when a group of freshmen cadets were gathered in T.D.

“Peanut” Owens’ dorm. The cadets wanted to have a pep rally for the upcoming football game, and they wanted to make it unlike any they had seen before. Cadets decided to practice their yells for precision on the steps of the YMCA building at midnight.

When the group approached their senior commanders for permission, they were told the yell practice couldn’t be made into an official event, but there was a possibility the Yell Leaders would show up. Sure enough, they did, along with the majority of the Corps of Cadets. The crowd practiced the yells for the next day’s game and sang the Aggie War Hymn and the Spirit of Aggieland. “[Before] the next game, it happened again,” said John Maldonado, former Traditions Council public relations chair and communication senior. “They picked up the tradition of it, and before every home football

game they would gather on the steps of the YMCA Building and have yell practice.”

A few years down the line, Owens became a Yell Leader. Legend has it his feet were so big, they couldn’t fit on the steps of the YMCA Building. To keep his balance, Owens would pace back and forth on the steps, and soon enough, the other Yell Leaders followed suit.

Over the years, various activities have been added to the schedule of Midnight Yell. To get the crowd in good spirits, the Yell Leaders started taking turns telling fables about how the Aggies will beat their opponent.

“They tell the story of Ol’ Rock either outsmarting or bettering his opponent in any capacity,” Maldonado said. “It’s a really fun way to get everyone laughing at yell practice and to relax into the yells.”

Maldonado said another tradition began to unfold when cadets started inviting students

from Texas Woman’s University to football games and women began attending Midnight Yell as well. This began the practice of kissing one’s date once the lights dimmed, commonly referred to as “mugging down.” Today, students without a date will either use a lighter or turn on the flashlight on their phone — which makes it easier to find another dateless student in the dark — in hopes of finding someone to “mug down” with.

Even when the football team is on the road, Aggies still have time to practice their yells.

On the Thursday night before an away game, Aggies gather at the 12th Man Memorial statue next to Kyle Field for yell practice. A smaller Midnight Yell is also held on Friday at a designated location in the town where the game is being played.

Keepers

THE BATTALION MAROON LIFE 9

of the

spirit

In the Corps of Cadets, the sophomore mascot corporal accompanies Reveille to all events including football games.

Cadets play unique role in traditions, observe many specific to the Corps

Meredith Seaver — THE BATTALION

By Jane Turchi @JaneTurchi

T

he Corps of Cadets is famously known for keeping tradition at Texas A&M. While many of the traditions they participate in are observed by all students, there are some which are unique to cadets. From their special role in Silver Taps, to receiving their Corps Brass, cadet involvement in tradition runs deep.

Corps Brass Culmination The Corps holds the Corps Brass Culmination ceremony at the end of November. After three hours of physical training, freshmen cadets receive the Corps Brass they will wear for the remainder of their time in the Corps.

Philosophy junior and member of C-2 Mason Loss said the event is meaningful to cadets because of the unique sense of community it creates.

“Culmination was really big for me because it’s you earning your place in the Corps,” Loss said. “Going through this awful workout that’s just so intense and so difficult but finally getting to the end of that and you’re rewarded with this thing — you feel like you earned it together with all of your closest friends.”

Final Review Final Review is an event where the entire Corps of Cadets assembles at the Simpson Drill Field for a full military review. It is the last official requirement Corps members must complete before they are released for summer break. The tradition consists of two passes in review, in which cadets march in front of a reviewing party consisting of various dignitaries and the Corps commandant. The first re-

view of the day is for all Corps students of the school year followed by the second review, in which that year’s freshmen, sophomores and juniors pass in front of the graduating seniors.

At the end of the spring 2019 semester, Squadron 23 member Matthew Trumm attended his last final review.

“Final review is special each year for different reasons,” Trumm said. “Your freshman year, you’re no longer a freshman; you’re an upperclassman. Your sophomore year, you’re finally a whitebelt, which gives you more privileges. Your junior year, you finally get to wear your boots, and your senior year, you’re finally done.”

Final review is a symbolic time for underclassmen as they honor graduating seniors and take on new roles in the Corps as the year comes to a close, Trumm said.

“Final review is the official ‘Congratulations, zips. You’re done,’” Trumm said.

March to the Brazos Each year, the Corps runs the largest student-led March of Dimes fundraiser in the country. March to the Brazos was originally held on April Fool’s Day to prevent cadets from playing tricks but ended in 1912. The event was restarted in 1977.

It begins with a nine-mile trek from main campus to the Brazos River, where the cadets compete in various competitions. On their return, the senior class “dies off” and rides buses while next year’s seniors lead the cadets on their return to campus.

“It’s kind of like we’re in our new roles, and we are going to act accordingly,” Trumm said.

Donations gathered as part of the march

support the March of Dimes’ work to improve the health of mothers and babies.

“You do the whole thing together as an outfit,” Loss said. “It really draws you close and brings you together because at the end of the day, you’ve walked like 18 miles together.”

Silver Taps and Echo Taps Silver Taps was first held in 1898 to honor Lawrence Sullivan Ross. Today, it is a university-wide tradition to honor students who have passed away. It is held in Academic Plaza on the first Tuesday of the month throughout the school year.

Josh Donnell, Class of 2019, was a member of the Ross Volunteer Company. In addition to serving as the official Honor Guard of the Governor of Texas, the RVs are responsible for performing the 21-gun salute at Silver Taps and campus Muster.

“There’s nothing like Silver Taps and Muster anywhere,” Donnell said. “So I think being a direct part of that and being given the opportunity to help in any way is just an amazing part of being an Aggie.”

Class of 2020 Nathanael Duty was a member of the H-1 outfit. Duty said on the day of Silver Taps, freshmen cadets carry note cards with the names of classmates who have died. “[Silver Taps] creates an atmosphere or culture where people value someone after their death, so they take a moment and remember the legacy that someone has created,” Duty said.

Similar to Silver Taps, when a current member of the Corps dies or there is a national tragedy, the cadets have an Echo Taps ceremony at the Quad. The ceremony begins

at 10:30 p.m., when cadets line the length of the Quad at attention. A bugler plays taps at one end of the Quad followed by another bugler at the opposite end who echoes the call.

Annual Echo Taps ceremonies are held in remembrance of tragedies including the Sept.

11 terrorist attacks and the collapse of Aggie Bonfire on Nov. 18, 1999.

“I think it’s important that we maintain these traditions because that’s who we are,” Donnell said. “It’s a joke that if something happens twice it’s a tradition, but I think that there’s a greater meaning behind traditions that people don’t realize.”

The First Lady of Aggieland As the story goes, a group of cadets hit a small black and white dog when they were traveling back from Navasota in January 1931.

They took the dog back to their dorm and hid her since pets weren’t allowed on campus.

When the “Reveille” wake-up call was played the next morning, the dog barked, so the cadets named her after the song. The following football season, Reveille led the band onto the field as the official mascot.

The current mascot, Reveille IX, assumed her role in May 2015. Reveille is the highest ranking member of the Corps of Cadets, boasting five silver diamonds.

Miss Rev is accompanied by a mascot corporal, who is a sophomore cadet selected from Company E-2. During the 2019-2020 school year, geographic information science and technology junior Colton Ray served in the role as Reveille’s caretaker and handler.

Reveille attends classes with the mascot corporal and tradition states that if she barks, the class is canceled.

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‘NATIONALLY FAMOUS’

Photos by Meredith Seaver and Kaylee Cogbill — THE BATTALION

America’s largest military marching band started with just 13 volunteers

By Samantha Mahler @ mahlersamantha

O

ne iconic phrase has long been associated with the precision-style marching only found in Aggieland: “Ladies and gentlemen, now forming at the north end of Kyle Field, the nationally famous Fightin’ Texas Aggie Band.”

With around 400 band members, the Aggie Band is the largest military band in the nation. As a distinct part of the Corps of Cadets, the band members live in close community with one another, making it a marching band unlike any other.

Around 1894, Joseph Holick traveled by train to College Station looking for work. A skilled leatherworker, Holick wound up repairing and making boots for cadets, eventually creating Holick Manufacturing Company, which makes boots for senior members of the Corps.

As the story goes, Holick also shared his musical talents with the Cadets. Word of

this eventually got to then-A&M president Lawrence Sullivan Ross, who asked Holick if he would be interested in forming a band.

Holick found 13 volunteers, borrowed militia uniforms and spent $100 on instruments, thus creating the Aggie Band.

Other collegiate marching bands went away from military marching style, which ultimately made the Aggie Band unique. Col. Jay Brewer, senior associate director of the

Aggie Band, said this style and the fact that the band lives together as a unit are what make the Aggie Band exceptional. Brewer serves as the familiar voice of the band during its performances.

“I think it’s popularity is pretty evident if you’ve ever been to Kyle Field and you hear the student crowd and others echo my introduction to the band,” Brewer said. “They stand the whole time these young people are

on the field. It’s a testament that this is something special; this is something unique. And wherever we go, we get that and then some.”

Within the Corps, there are six band-specific units to which members can be assigned.

These cadets have similar schedules to nonband Corps members, but with the added obligation of band practice five days a week, Aggie Band members have a different level of responsibility.

“They’re very good and very dedicated at what they do, and it takes a great deal of time and energy and sweat and some tears along the way,” Brewer said. “There’s a lot more to it to be in the Texas Aggie Band than preparing halftime drills and preparing march music.”

The Aggie Band resides in two halls on the Corps Quad. There are three floors in each building, and each of the six units is assigned its own floor.

2019 Band Commander and Class of 2020 Nick Rossi said although everyone in the band may look uniform on the field, it is really a melting pot of cadets from a wide variety of backgrounds. Still, one thing is the same for each member: the band spends the majority of its time in close proximity with one another.

THE BATTALION MAROON LIFE 11

During the fall semester, the Aggie Band wakes up around 5 a.m. each day to practice halftime marching drills.

“It’s really neat because at the end of the day, we’re all going to come back here to these two dorms, and we’re all going to lay down in the same relative vicinity, and we’re all going to get up and go do the same thing the next morning,” Rossi said. “That’s really special — something bringing us into some kind of common ground to do something that’s not just for us.”

Ross Beazley, industrial distribution senior and alto saxophone, said the relationships within the Corps are unparalleled, but a little more so within the Aggie Band.

“Not every major unit outside the band

gets the opportunity to intermingle nearly as often as we do,” Beazley said. “I think that’s super, super cool because I get to go see other people from five other outfits that I don’t get to see on a regular basis and make connections and make relationships with them.”

Rossi said he is confident the friendships he’s made within the Aggie Band will be relationships he’ll have for life. He credits these connections to living together and being able to see his buddies at their best and worst.

“We all see each other at the 5 a.m. wakeup call whenever your hair is a mess, all half an inch of it,” Rossi said. “Whenever you’ve got

bags under your eyes and whenever you’ve got that exam the next morning.”

In 2001, the Aggie Band received the Sudler Trophy, which is awarded to a collegiate-level marching band that demonstrates the highest level of excellence. However, for many members of the band, the honor of playing while former President George H.W. Bush’s casket was carried off the train before his burial in College Station was the highest award they will ever receive.

“The fact that he wanted specifically us to be there — that I think trumps any award that we could possibly be a part of,” Beazley said.

“Just being part of something so special and characteristic and important to our country.”

Cadets in the Aggie Band earn a one-hour kinesiology credit each semester they are active. Brewer, who has been announcing the band at halftime since 1981, said he believes members should earn at least a six-hour credit because of their dedication to each other and the band.

“It’s about who you are and what you’re made of, but more importantly, what you’re passionate about,” Brewer said. “More importantly than that, this is about not so much what we do, but whom we do it with.”

THE BATTALION MAROON LIFE 12

THE BATTALION MAROON LIFE 13

NEVER FORGOTTEN

Aggies reflect on A&M’s ability to come together after Bonfire tragedy and preserve the memories of the twelve who lost their lives

By Hollis Mills and Jane Turchi @sillohsllim & @JaneTurchi

The Bonfire Memorial on the northeast side of campus stands as a permanent reminder of the 20-year-old tragedy and a lasting tribute to the Aggies who passed away.

Meredith Seaver — THE BATTALION

The morning of Nov. 18, 1999, Jason Hannam arrived at a quiet and solemn campus. Hannam, Class of 2001, soon heard rumors about the collapse of Bonfire, an incident that would ensure the day lived on in the consciousness of Aggies.

In the wake of the tragedy, Hannam joined fellow Aggies in searching for friends who were among the list of students wounded and killed by the collapse the night before. Hannam recognized the name of one fellow student, Timothy Kerlee.

Hannam was able to visit Kerlee in the hospital before he passed away later that day.

“It was very somber,” Hannam said. “It was kind of like the whole campus was mourning, I guess you could say. Everything else is overshadowed by what happened. No one’s thinking about other things.”

As the debris was cleared and the victims were recovered, the effects of the collapse remained on campus and in the hearts of Aggies.

Twenty years after the incident, Bonfire symbolizes selfless sacrifice for students like recreation, park and tourism sciences junior Connor Lloyd.

He recalls the first time he attended a Student Bonfire burn — an independent continuation of the tradition held off campus each year.

“I definitely felt really, really close with all my buddies,” Lloyd said. “We’d just gotten out of Brass Culmination for the Corps, and so we earned our right to be called cadets. We went to a Bonfire burn and it was just a big, symbolic way to understand that I’m a part of this university, I’m part of the Corps of Cadets, I’m with my outfit right here. It’s a coming together moment and I don’t think I’d trade it for anything.”

Like many cadets, industrial distribution junior Garrett Hilliard first learned about Bonfire at his outfit’s traditions night. After visiting various historical landmarks throughout campus, the night ended with a visit to the Bonfire Memorial.

“That was kind of my first exposure to not only just Bonfire but also the fact that my outfit has a very vivid history with Bonfire,” Hilliard said.

“Being exposed to that the first time intrigued me greatly, and that kind of inspired me to pursue it further and keep up with my outfit and make sure that my outfit is continually going to Bonfire and honoring that tradition.”

Bonfire is particularly important for Hilliard as

Kerlee was a member of his outfit, Squadron 16.

After the fall of Bonfire, Kerlee would not let rescue workers help him out of the rubble, famously saying “help my buddies first.”

Kerlee’s quote lives on within Squadron 16 and is shared with new cadets as they join the outfit.

After hearing Kerlee’s story, Hilliard said he found motivation to stay involved in his outfit.

“Traditions night for me was a moment where I found real motivation and real purpose in why I’m here and why this outfit was the right choice,” Hilliard said. “I knew I made the right choice whenever we learned about Kerlee just because I can’t find any other outfit that has history like that — a history of sacrifice that Tim’s given us in this outfit.”

A permanent tribute Today, Michael Rey is senior principal and vice president of operations at Overland Partners, an architecture firm based in San Antonio. But at the time of the collapse, Rey was just another Aggie dealing with the tragedy. He graduated later that semester and began working as a designer with the company, where he and a fellow Aggie were given the opportunity to propose the concept design for the Bonfire Memorial that stands today.

“Ultimately, we came up with the first initial boards through that process,” Rey said. “It was really beautiful because it was holistic and everyone was filling out ideas, and only the best ones stuck.”

Built on the site of the collapse and dedicated in 2004, the memorial stands where past ruins laid, embodying the spirit of the fallen through three distinct design elements.

The high granite wall of the Tradition Plaza is designed to put visitors in the right mindset from the moment they park, Rey said, and the History Walk serves as a timeline, telling the story of Aggie Bonfire throughout the years. The path culminates at the Spirit Ring, which features 12 “portals” with written tributes and engraved portraits of those who lost their lives in the 1999 collapse.

“Through these individuals, you’re seeing the Aggie spirit,” Rey said. “You know them by their face, you know them by their name and you know them by their thoughts. Each portal gravitates toward having a unique perspective on that.”

The Bonfire Memorial’s Spirit Ring arrangement was created to uplift the Aggie Spirit, both figuratively and literally, Rey said.

“The gateways lifting up those circles still make a continuous ring, but we’re lifting them up and

we’re actually seeing the underbelly of the ring,” Rey said. “It’s that glow at nighttime that really shines from the spirit of the Aggies.”

The Spirit Ring itself was built around the site of the 1999 Bonfire stack. Rey said every aspect of the memorial possesses individualized meaning, from engravings on the black basalt stone at the base of each portal to the placement of the portals themselves.

“They’re actually oriented toward their hometown,” Rey said. “If you’re standing at the centerpole looking through their gateways, each gateway is oriented toward where they were coming from before they came here to A&M, to their final resting place. That’s a powerful thing for me, to be able to connect through the inner circle of A&M and see that through the eyes of the individual who has perished.”

Rey said it is only when a person steps through a fallen student’s portal that they can understand them — like Michael Ebanks, who Rey met in an advanced mathematics course the semester of the collapse.

“It’s not like I knew him deeply, but I knew him enough to know that he was really nice and certainly someone I’d love to get to know more,” Rey said. “Unfortunately, I didn’t get that chance.”

Having the opportunity to learn about more than just the names, but about the lives and stories of each of the fallen students is an honor Rey said he will always carry with him.

“It’s hard to put into words actually, a project like that,” Rey said. “I don’t know if I’ll go the rest of my life, or this career, ever being able to do something as significant as the Bonfire memorial.”

Political science junior Brianna Mason, who was not born until a year after the tragedy, first heard of the collapse when she was a junior in high school. Though a horrific moment in A&M history, Mason said the Bonfire collapse is memorable not just because of the tragedy itself, but because of how the Aggie community banded together in its aftermath.

“I wasn’t raised in an Aggie family, so I knew nothing about A&M,” Mason said. “I guess for me, when I think about the Bonfire collapse it shows how much the university could come together after the tragedy. I think it just showed how strong the university was and the strength of the Aggie family. They could overcome any huge impact.”

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NOW IS THE TIME to pre-order your copy of the

2020AGGIELAND It’s not too late to buy your copy of the 2020 Aggieland, a photojournalistic record of the 2019-2020 school year. The 118th edition of Texas A&M’s official yearbook.

Go Online to tx.ag/BuyTheAggieland or call 979-845-2697 to make your purchase.

2021AGGIELAND A photojournalistic record of the 2020-2021 school year. The 119th edition of Texas A&M’s official yearbook. Distribution will be Summer or Fall 2021.

Go Online to tx.ag/BuyTheAggieland or call 979-845-2697 to make your purchase. $81.19 (Includes Tax & Mailing Fee)

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You can order past Aggielands at tx.ag/BuyTheAggieland.

All proceeds from sales go back to the students in some way and keep alive this Texas A&M tradition that was started in 1895.

WHERE CAN WORKING FOR THE BATTALION HELP TAKE YOU?

#WhereWillYouGo?

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 16 | SERVING TEXAS A&M SINCE 1893 | © 2018 STUDENT MEDIA

“Wouldn’t be where I am today without The Batt. I learned how to work on deadline, lay out a paper and delegate as an editor. Some of my favorite years in school.”

Jonathan Wall, ’07, English Staff writer, PGATour.com

Photo illustration by Cassie Stricker — THE BATTALION

“Working at The Battalion gave me a career trajectory, taught me the value of deadlines and accurate communication and truly changed my life. Plus I made lifelong friends. That alone is worth it.”

Stacy Bertinelli, ’93, English & History Marketing Director, Translational Genomic Research Institute

MONDAY, APRIL

22 | SERVING

TEXAS A&M

SINCE 1893 |

© 2019 STUDENT

Photo illustration

Muste 2019 Campus

by Cassie Stricker

26 | SERVING TEXAS

A&M SINCE 1893

| © 2018 STUDENT

MEDIA

2 0 1 8

F A L L

T S S P O R

I E W P R E V

‘HOWDY’ be er learns to to Jimbo Fish ng while aimi an Aggie A&M to college s bring Texa inence football prom

“My entire professional career has been shaped by my time spent working at @TheBattOnlinemoras a student it’s a familyreporter and e than a school — Texas A&M is editor. I’m no longer in the J-biz, but make no mistake: I use elements of what I learnedWthere every hour of every day.

Can’t imagine my life without it!”

True Brown, ’04, Agricultural Journalism Director of Development, A&M Foundation

Part II: Perceptions and experiences of cadet life

“I wouldn’t be anywhere without The Battalion!”

C. Morgan Engel, ’18, Telecommunication Media Studies Photographer, Minnesota Vikings/San Diego Chargers

s most cherished values

of Aggieland’ reason that maybe the is a poignant display me I understand now both at A&M Club invited Stricker says Muster Muster grow in camaraderie, BBQ the Comal County on campus and senior — to their to exclub and at the Muster — a high school an event that the the ceremony itselfday. because they wantedSpirit and stand why this was scholarship recipients ceremony, was the Aggie held earlier in the for the Absent begins. me that piece of would invite their didn’t understand why away tend to that I hadn’t just picked a college at Later, Roll Call be to, and I definitely of Aggies who passed show me to everyone there a family that would When the names called, their family and Muster was so important to attend; I’d found time I said “Howdy” in the last year are first to and light a candle. that night. my side from the name is called and my answer “Here” in college preparing who we my Now, as a senior ceremony, friendsserves as a reminder that those to the last time say “Here.” my first Muster Campus Muster This hen I walked into school senior in spirit. will attend my fourth friends and family lost are still present ends, Reed Arena Muster ceremony ceremony as a high I had no idea I’ve had have Call I get it.

The 2019 Campus about 140 people who for The Battalion, MusWhen the Roll of the Ross of lives on April 21, 2015, the sound While working the Campus celebrate year. You may photographing is silent except for in a slow cadence. away in the last what to expect. County A&M be the privilege of but they and this year will to seated have passed Volunteers marching the Comal them personally, the stage and those ter on two occasions, I was invited to not have known same. because I was one a 21-gun in such close proximity to There, in between the RVs render gathered the third. Being are family just the of you to join me in Club’s Muster ceremony and the families recipients. I remember on the floor level, played, the ceremony is the reunion class one they’ve lost allowed is I encourage each to answer “Here” for of their scholarship just be going to some salute. After Taps 7 p.m. a loved Reed Arena at perspective. thinking that I must or reunion — probably answer for or just as future Aggies dismissed.

Muster from a new it be on campus Aggies we’ve lost, than just whether the kind of club meeting — more very wrong). me to see was much (I Muster held so At of ceremonies the Aggie Muster is will for you someday. a barbecue or something— a first-generation a time to remember to at one of the hundreds Aggie Spirit is fully a gathering. It is As I sat in that room about A&M’s to the future and have across the world — the nothing what past, to look forward Aggie who knew Aggies who is an agricultural understand fellow Stricker to visible of alive.

Cassie lives made struggled face celebrate the traditions — I journalism senior With every tear-soaked “Here” whispered communications and The Battalion. will passed away. with every was happening. Roll Call began, I had candle Muster, a speaker by candlelight, and photo chief for the and with every At the Campus By the time the called were and tell stories about by all those gatheredbecomes more evident. the names being address the crowd 1969. The members of determined that away, but I in lit, the Aggie Spirit who had passed out their time lives of students those of Aggies why “Here” rang get to remember the reunion class still didn’t understandname. I didn’t underin unison after each

MONDAY, APRIL 8 | SERVING TEXAS A&M SINCE 1893 | © 2019 STUDENT MEDIA

CORPS VALUES

— THE BATTALION

r

‘46 • Israel ‘46 • James E. Wiley ‘52 • Maj. ‘44 • Paul Napper • James L. Powell Horace W. Van CleaveDr. Donald Posey Alford ‘43 Templin ‘51 • Dr. ‘54 • Turner ‘28 • James • Ben Chambers ‘51 • Edward ‘54 • Blase Pantuso • Dr. Ralph Emerson ‘49 , Jr. ‘53 • Jim Earle • Dr. James Carter Cooper ‘56 • Charles Rogers ‘55 Truett “Bob” Childress Smith ‘59 Allan Lerner ‘47 Cargill ‘53 • Robert David Strickler ‘55 • Garrett Maxwell ‘59 • Wilburn Cleo • Kenneth Falkner ‘60 • H.B. “Buddy” Payne Gen. (Ret) Charles ‘55 • Paul Murray ‘57 • Donald Bowne Loehr Joe Anderson ‘55 Hankins ‘56 • James Bill Lightfoot ‘60 • Winston W. ‘62 • Warren ‘56 • Kenneth M. ‘61 • Edward Berry Glenn ‘60 • e ‘64 • Frank Howerton • Raymond Dietrich R. ‘60 Partridg • William ‘64 • Jerry • Benito Flores ‘61 • A.C. Hill ‘61 ‘64 • R.E. Merritt • George • Sidney Pitts ‘59 ‘60 • Robert Bower Dr. Floron C. “Buddy” Faries, Jr. De Los Santos ‘68 Wilding Jaime • Larence Santiago • • ‘64 Childress er ‘60 ‘68 • Charles McGinty John Craig Beckmey Chancey ‘69 • Lloyd • Paul Hollahan III ‘68 Herrmann ‘63 • Bridges ‘69 • Jack Helm ‘69 ‘66 • Edward Lee Benedict ‘69 • Floyd • Gary Granade ‘69 • Douglas Lt. John Michael Seago ‘69 • Wallis M. ‘69 Jacobsen ‘69 • Wendell Arnold • LTC John Godfrey ‘69 • Louis Igo ‘69 • Richard er Spangle ‘68 • Dr. Larry Dziuk ‘69 ‘69 • Lance Shaff Duprie ‘69 • Dr. ‘69 • Gary Kitchens • Dr. Harry Rook ‘69 • Dempsey ‘69 • Gordon Hyatt Moore ‘75 • Jesse ‘69 • John Ray ‘69 • James Holley ‘69 • Edward Phillips • Fred Contreras ‘72 • Larry Norman Christopher Reed Henderson ‘69 • Dr. ‘69 • Larry Parsons Napper ‘71 Alan Berry ‘79 ‘82 Col. Willard Mumford‘69 • Gregory Wood ‘69 • Gary Jon Kerness Hennigan Thomas ‘78 • Richard Elbert ‘82 • Sgt. ‘78 • Peter John Kris Ann Ann ‘69 • Albert Whipple • Smith ‘95 Becky • Leon Gattis ‘81 Jr. Col. Ernest Monroe Starnes Carter ‘93 • Brent Cocke ‘76 • Lt. Springs ‘14 • Michael Brehm ‘81 • Rodney m ‘92 • Jason Douglas ‘16 ‘80 • Donald Eugene Anne Kalinke ‘91 • Matt Grantha Charlton Clayton ‘13 • Mary Elizabeth Maddux • on ‘15 • Kaylee ‘90 • Wally Attisha ‘97 • Peggy Shafer ‘15 • Sarah Sappingt her Wilson ‘18 • Thomas Faltys ‘96 • Dr. Kristen Lane Moss ‘18 • Mark Christop Martin ‘95 • Jennifer Matthew Michael Wiese ‘14 • Payan ‘19 • • Trevor Lynch ‘14 • Van Le ‘19 • Adolfo Andrew Smith ‘17 John Whitehead Hanson ‘21 Gunhouse ‘19 • Hughes ‘17 • Evan ‘20 • Erik Kyle ‘19 • Noah Joseph Mehrzad Monzavi • Harrison Matthew • William Montgomery Gano Wegener ‘21 • Michalski ‘20 • ll ‘19 g ‘21 • Anna Dryden n ‘20 • Hannah Judith Pierce Followwi • Sophie Pearl Rosenber Bush • Clark Adams • Dr. • Emily Lynne Chaffi ‘21 ‘19 Ton Kalinke Pierce John J. Alan Chuong • Andrew Keith • First Lady Barbara Jackson • Distinguished Professor Ti Xu Hernandez ‘21 • Grant Jacson t George H.W. Bush • Barry Speights • Little ‘22 • Presiden C. Dethloff • Harris Granger Shearon • Dr. V.O. u. on muster.tamu.ed Joseph William • Dr. Winston T. Henry “This Year’s Honorees” Carpenter • Dr. List compiled from • Donald L. Reddell Ball • Dr. Zerle • Robert Rakov M. Sam Mannan McDermott • Dr.

Photo chief Cassie

@cassie_stricker

Applications are available in Suite L400 of the Memorial Student Center LIFE N O O R MA or at tx.ag/BattApplication

“It truly helped me figure out the direction I wanted to go in career-wise!”

Bethany Irvine, ‘18, Communication Government Affairs Coordinator, AALU, Washington, D.C.

MEDIA

MONDAY, NOVEMBER

Cassie Stricker

APPLY TODAY

We Remember Them

Miranda Denise Adams ‘02 • Christopher D. Breen ‘96 • Michael Stephen Ebanks ‘03 • Jeremy Richard Frampton ‘99 • Jamie Lynn Hand ‘03 • Christopher Lee Heard ‘03 • Timothy Doran Kerlee, Jr. ‘03 • Lucas John Kimmel ‘03 • Bryan A. McClain ‘02 • Chad A. Powell ‘03 • Jerry Don Self ‘01 • Nathan Scott West ‘02

Sophomore wide

receiver Kendrick

Rogers completed

a pass from sophomore

4 HOURS, 53 MINU

Aggies defeat Tigers after seven-overtime showdown

By Hannah Underwood @hannahbunderwoo

With 84 points scored time between No. in over22 Texas A&M and LSU, the Aggies earned their first win over the No. 7 Tigers

quarterback Kellen

Mond in the fourth

overtime, despite

pass interference

Meredith Seaver

— THE BATTALION

from the LSU defender.

TES

since 1995. we did. How proud The game, which went I am of into sev- players. en overtime periods, It’s about the players, our nered 234 rushing yards on 56 was the high- od. car- a great coach. peri- ries and 287 est-scoring game in They set a standard We are so passing yards. for what that Football Bowl Aggie have him as our coach.” thankful to The leading rusher Subdivison history helmet means.” for the Aggies as A&M topped Sophomore quarterback was junior running The A&M offense, SEC West opponent back Trayveon Mond Kellen LSU 74-72. gled massively in the which strug- Williams, who accumulated added 80 yards on “That was a heck 20 carries second half, yards 204 and went 23-of-49 team,” A&M head of a football came alive in overtime on for 287 passing to score five downs. 35 carries and two touch- yards. coach Jimbo touchdowns Fisher said. “You and two field goals. say “That was a crazy “This is A&M make one more play. you have to game That’s what fensive outgained LSU in total of- Williams absolutely outstanding,” that’s the kind of game we live but said. “This really paves yards 521 to 496, for,” and gar- way this program is going. Jimbothe Mond said. “We showed as a team is

“Learned so much during my time there and definitely made lifelong friends.

Wouldn’t be who I am today without my time at The Batt.”

Doug Fuentes, ‘01, Journalism Registered Nurse/Assistant Nurse Manager, Baylor Scott & White “The Batt is where I learned my craft and caught the journalism bug. Hopefully many more generations will get the same opportunity.”

Matthew Watkins, ’08, Political Science Managing Editor for News and Politics, Texas Tribune “I would not be the journalist I am today or have the goals I do now if it wasn’t for The Battalion. These students are the future of news. We need them.”

Chevall Pryce, ’17, University Studies/Journalism Reporter, Houston Community Newspapers

GAME RECAP ON

PG. 2

“As a reporter and editor at The Batt, I learned real-time lessons: how to live the ethics of journalism; skills that made success as an entrepreneur publisher possible; and the conviction that journalism matters.”

Angelique Gammon, ’81, Journalism Professor, Texas A&M, former owner & publisher of Insite Magazine

Freshmen in the Corps of Cadets wave their 12th Man Towels and yell during the 2018 football season opener against Northwestern State on Aug. 30.

Cassie Stricker — THE BATTALION

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR Dear readers,

L

ast month The Battalion published the first edition of our three part series: Corps Values. This is an in-depth project about the Texas A&M Corps of Cadets, which we chose to pursue when we were selected to participate in the Poynter Institute’s 2018-2019 College Media Project.

The program gives extra funds and advising resources to student newspapers to report on a subject of their choice.

Our goal for the project is to tell the full story of the Corps. We want to help non-Corps students better understand the oldest organization on campus and to dispel misconceptions that Corps members often confront. We also want to dig deeper and answer any lingering questions students may

have about the Corps.

We were pleased with the feedback we received after the first editions. Some of this included former students calling the office to learn how to get involved and congratulating us on taking up the subject. Others’ comments were less positive, including emails from people telling us no one was going to talk to us or saying we did not accurately portray the Corps in our articles.

However, we were happy to see all of it because we had suggestions of what people wanted to see throughout the rest of the semester and it meant that Aggieland was taking note of our reporting. We also had students reaching out to be interviewed for stories about their experience in the Corps, and it was great to see how Aggies want to be heard through our publication.

While the first edition covered the history and structure of the Corps, Aggie involvement in various wars and much more, the edition you are currently reading takes a look at the experiences of students in the Corps and different perceptions of the organization.

Our staff enjoyed meeting students who have loved their time as a cadet, but also hearing from others who made the difficult decision to leave was equally intriguing. I believe The Battalion staff has done a great job of displaying what cadet life is like for students, past and present. However, we still have many stories to tell.

The last edition of Corps Values will be released at the end of the semester and will address ongoing issues in the Corps, including instances of hazing. As with our first round of content, we are opening the

door to anyone who has a story to share or feedback to offer.

The Battalion is the voice of the student body, so don’t hesitate to come to us for the last edition of this series. You can email me at editor@thebatt.com or come to our newsroom in the Memorial Student Center room L400.

I hope part two of Corps Values will give readers an inside look at cadets’ experiences and encourage others to speak up if they have personal stories they would like to share. Thank you for reading.

Respectfully, Megan Rodriguez Editor-in-chief

IN THIS EDITION

PAGE 3

PAGE 4

PAGE 8

CORPS STAFF FEATURES STUDENTS LEADING BY EXAMPLE

WOMEN IN THE CORPS FROM W-1 TO CORPS COMMANDER

BATT STAFF COLUMNS LOOKING BACK ON CORPS LIFE

Check out every article from The Battalion’s Corps Values series and a new feature video on our project website, BattCorpsValues.com

“My experience as a sports editor/writer was so much more valuable than most of my classes.”

Carter Karels, ’18, University Studies/Journalism Sports reporter, South Bend Tribune “What I learned at The Battalion helped land internships with the Philadelphia Inquirer and The Dallas Morning News.

It gave me skills to seamlessly integrate into a professional newsroom.”

Angel Franco, ’19, Telecommunication Media Studies Sports reporter, The Dallas Morning News/Al Dia

THE BATTALION MAROON LIFE 16

Understanding Aggie traditions

The Texas A&M student section is known as the 12th Man, and students will stand for the duration of football games.

Meredith Seaver — THE BATTALION

From “Howdy” to “Here,” A&M traditions are unlike any other

By Samantha Mahler @mahlersamantha “From the outside looking in, you can’t understand it. From the inside looking out, you can’t explain it.”

Texas A&M’s storied history as a military college has led to dozens of traditions, which bind one generation of Aggies to the next.

However, this culture shock can make those new to the university a little confused. Here are the answers to common questions about a few of A&M’s most popular traditions.

Why do we have Midnight Yell?

Yell Practice originated as an after-dinner ritual in 1913. Midnight Yell began in 1931 when a group of freshmen cadets had the idea to gather on the steps of the YMCA building at midnight to practice yells. Today, Midnight Yell is held the night before every home game in Kyle Field. For away games, a Midnight Yell will be held somewhere in or near the city where A&M will play its opponent.

During Midnight Yell, the Yell Leaders conduct the crowd in yells and tell fables about how the Aggies will beat their opponent the following day. The crowd will sing the “Aggie War Hymn.” When the lights go out, they’ll kiss their date, or “mug down,” to practice for the tradition of kissing each time the Aggies score. Don’t worry if you came alone, though. Just shine your phone’s flashlight and wait for a potential suitor.

What is a wildcat?

Originating from a fable in which there was a wildcat problem on campus, wildcats are an expression of class pride. Wildcats may be said after yells, when introducing yourself or after hearing your class year. For example, if you are a member of the Class of 2024, whenever you hear the number 24 you’ll do your wildcat.

As a freshman, you’ll raise your hands above your head and yell a continuous “AAAAA!” When you become a sophomore, you’ll make a “pistol” with each hand by extending your thumbs and index fingers and curling your other fingers inward while yelling “A! A! A! A! A!” Junior year is when things get exciting: you can finally whoop! You’ll make one pistol with both hands while covering the top of your right hand to hide the fact that you don’t have your Aggie Ring yet. Point your hands down on the left side of your body and yell “A! A! A!” and then move your hands to the right side of your body and yell, “Whoop!”

As a senior, you’ll keep both hands forming a pistol. This time, however, you’ll interlock your fingers to show off your Aggie Ring.

Point your hands at the ground while yelling “A!” then move your interlocked hands above your head while yelling “Whoop!” while raising your right foot and tucking it behind your left knee.

Who is the 12th Man? In 1922, the Aggies faced the Centre College Praying Colonels at a football game in the Dallas Dixie Classic. It wasn’t looking good for the Ags, since several players were injured

and their team was quickly dwindling.

Suddenly, A&M coach Dana X. Bible remembered a squad player by the name of E. King Gill who was up in the press box helping reporters identify players on the field. Bible waved Gill down and told him to suit up. Gill changed under the bleachers into an injured running back’s uniform and stood on the sideline for the rest of the game, ready to play.

Though he never set foot on the field, the Aggies pulled off the win, 22-14.

Today, students honor Gill’s willingness to serve by standing together at all football and basketball games. This has coined the term “Home of the 12th Man” and is one reason why A&M has been named one of the best college football environments for decades.

What’s the difference between Muster and Silver Taps?

Silver Taps and Muster are two of A&M’s most sacred traditions as they both honor Aggies who have recently passed away. However, there are a few key differences between the two.

Silver Taps is held on the first Tuesday of every month during the fall and spring semesters to honor current undergraduate and graduate students who have passed away. Beginning at 10:15 p.m., all lights on campus are shut off and students and families of those honored gather in Academic Plaza. At 10:30 p.m., the Ross Volunteers enter Academic Plaza and fire a three-volley salute. Buglers then play a special rendition of “Taps” called “Silver Taps” three times: once to the north, once to the south and once to the west, but never to the east because the sun will never

rise on these fallen Aggies again.

Muster is held once a year on April 21 and honors all Aggies lost within the previous year, whether they were a former or current students. Muster is held in many locations around the world. However, the largest Muster is the campus Muster with thousands in attendance.

During each Muster ceremony, a speaker addresses the crowd and then begins the “Roll Call for the Absent,” reading aloud the names of those from the surrounding area who have passed away during the past year. A family member or friend answers “Here” to show the Aggie is still present in spirit and then lights a candle.

What is the Spirit of Aggieland?

They say the Spirit of Aggieland is a spirit that can ne’er be told. This spirit is what makes A&M so special. It begins when you first step foot on campus and are greeted with “Howdy,” the official greeting of Aggieland.

It continues when you receive your Aggie Ring, the most visible symbol of the Aggie Network. And it’s why on April 21, no matter what the state of the world may look like, we call the Muster to honor those Aggies lost in the previous year.

No one’s time in Aggieland looks the same.

Although your first few weeks may be uncertain, lean into the awkwardness of not fully understanding everything. The traditions become more meaningful as time goes on. So say “Howdy” to a stranger on campus. Stand for the entirety of a football game. Go to Silver Taps. And understand that these traditions are what make Aggies so proud to be a part of A&M.

THE BATTALION MAROON LIFE 17

Why Texas A&M?

The fountain in front of Sbisa Dining Hall is known as Fish Pond. According to tradition, after an Aggie football home win, the five yell leaders are carried by freshmen cadets from Kyle Field and thrown into the fountain.

Meredith Seaver — THE BATTALION

Many things draw students to A&M, including unique Aggie culture, network

By Hollis Mills @sillohsllim The decision to attend a university potentially hundreds of miles away from home never comes easy.

Surely, a good education can be earned wherever there are willing educators, but students make the leap to attend Texas A&M for another reason. Perhaps it’s the opportunity to meet one of the nation’s most adorable mascots or take some pride in buying oneself their first pair of ropers. There is a connection students make at A&M that keeps Aggie lore so fascinating.

For Lucas Mendoza, Class of 2020, his choice to attending A&M was solidified the day he stepped foot in a Chicago elevator and stood across from an Aggie with a bit of gold on their finger. A conversation struck up, and so did two students’ appreciation for their school.

“Despite the age gap, our mutual experience as A&M Aggies made us feel a real bond that day,” Mendoza said. “It was then that I

realized just how special the Aggie community will always be to me.”

Mendoza, who began his education at A&M through the Blinn TEAM program, said he was initially worried he would not have the full Aggie experience if he were attending another school for credits. In due time, Mendoza would transfer in, but he discovered he did not need to be on A&M grounds to fall in love with the A&M lifestyle.

“I was pleasantly surprised that I was able to fully participate in A&M traditions, football games, living on campus,” Mendoza said.

“A&M’s traditions do a really great job creating a cohesive Aggie community, of course between students, but also with alumni as well.”

Attending school in Aggieland can be viewed as a rite of passage for some, like international studies senior Carlos Canchola, who threw out every other application when he found he was accepted into the maroon and white.

“I knew that Texas A&M was where I wanted to go, even if I had gotten several acceptance letters,” Canchola said. “I knew that I could not live with myself without having experienced Aggieland for myself.”

When he was a freshman in the Corps of

Cadets, the initial transition still worried Canchola. He participated in all squadron activities, but this did not disguise that for the first time in his life he was on his own.

During this stretch of learning how to navigate the university he wanted to call home, Canchola said he turned to an Aggie who had been in his shoes before, an Aggie who had spent his fair share of restless nights reminding himself — coming from a town of high school graduates who went straight into the workforce — he deserved to be at A&M too. “[My brother] showed me how your background was irrelevant once you came to Texas A&M,” Canchola said. “The blank canvas you were given was not a tragedy, but a privilege, because it mattered not what you were given before, but what you were going to do with what you had now.”

No matter the difficulty it may take to adjust to a new setting, Canchola said the greatest connection someone can find at A&M, whether it be between siblings or cadets, is the shared experience of having been here.

“Although every person has a different experience while at Aggieland, we have the same love for Texas A&M,” Canchola said.

“It’s a uniquely overwhelming thought that although we may not know every person at

Texas A&M, we love each other like family.”

This appreciation between Aggies that assured political science senior Stephanie Munson she too would find herself in College Station.

“I knew coming into Aggieland that the people here were different from the people at any other university, [but] what surprised me was just how correct this statement was,” Munson said. “I never expected to meet so many different types of people that all somehow shared my interests and had a similar mindset as me.”

As a member of the Class of 2022 set to graduate this December, Munson said her stay in Aggieland is coming to an end more quickly than she hoped. Before she walks the stage come winter, she will gig ‘em and howdy all semester long.

“Before I leave, I hope to experience whooping at football games and Midnight Yell,” Munson said. “I want to take a nap in the Flag Room. I want to put a penny on Sully. … I want to walk under the Century Tree with the person I love. There are just so many things left to do here that I haven’t been able to experience, and I want to make sure I can fit it all into my last semester here in the fall.”

THE BATTALION MAROON LIFE 18

What I wish I had known Life & arts editor Rebecca Morris says college is the time to be who you want to be Rebecca Morris @RebeccaSheWrote Dear incoming freshmen,

Kaylee Cogbill — THE BATTALION

Students often hammock in Academic Plaza in between classes to study and relax.

One year ago, I was in your shoes — filled with hopes and fears about college life. In less than 365 days, I’ve learned so much about life (more specifically college), and I wanted to share some helpful tips with you.

First, utilize the resources here on campus.

Transitioning from home to completely on your own is a huge change. My first semester, I didn’t go to the Counseling and Psychological Services here on campus because I was afraid of what people might think. But once I started talking about going, I realized a lot more people go than you think. It really helps to at least have someone to talk to, and thanks to your university fees, it is free!

(That’s another word you’ll become best friends with at Texas A&M as well.)

Secondly, this is an opportunity to be who you want to be. Maybe a lot of people from your high school came here, or maybe you’re the only one, but either way, you’ll most likely not run across anyone you knew before college on campus unless you plan to meet up. No one here has any expectations for you. While that may be scary, it’s also freeing. Be yourself! Then, everyone you meet will only know you for you, not your previous reputation or status. You can make a whole new life here if you choose, so don’t be afraid to grab the chance.

Thirdly, please don’t overload yourself.

All the opportunities may sound fantastic, and it may be hard to choose what to do, but know your limits. It’s perfectly OK to shop around for the perfect organization. No one will hold it against you if you decide to leave an org, I promise. Find what you are passionate about and groups that you click with, and stick with those. If you want to get outside your comfort zone and join a random fun organization, definitely go for it, but don’t keep yourself in a group that you find to be a burden. Trying to do everything will only cause you more stress than you will already experience at college.

Find friends. There’s nothing better than having people you can rely on to be there for you when things get tough. We are all going through this together, leaning on each other

for support. Meet people who are different from you and the same as you. Build a group that is founded on love and friendship. Take time to tell them how much they mean to you. And spend as much time with them as possible.

Next, take a break. Studying 24/7 may sound productive, but it really does a number on your health. After a big exam, reward yourself with a Starbucks break or hammocking time in Academic Plaza. Play a game, chat with friends and don’t isolate yourself. Get outside often and see people, even if it’s just reading a book in silence in the Commons or playing a video game in the MSC Underground.

Most importantly, have an open mind.

A&M is a diverse campus with people from around Texas, the country and the world coming together for the Aggie experience.

These are your friends, colleagues and family members for the next four years. Love them and spread kindness to everyone you meet, no matter how different they seem. You’ll meet so many interesting people and make so many deep connections if you approach every opportunity with an open mind. You’ll find so many unique chances and new interests if you come to college with a curious mindset. This open-mindedness can lead you to adventures you never dreamed were possible, changing your world forever in the best way.

Finally, participate! Don’t be scared to join in on activities. Ask to play frisbee with the people tossing disks around on the empty field. Go to Silver Taps and football games.

Get invested in the traditions on campus or make your own! College is so much better when you do things with others and get invested in the culture of the campus. If you take advantage of opportunities, Aggieland will become your home.

Relish every second and live life to the fullest, and looking back you won’t regret a single moment of it. College is a fresh start, and from here on out the future is what you make of it. A&M welcomes you with open arms!

Thanks and Gig ‘em!

With love, Rebecca Morris Class of 2023

THE BATTALION MAROON LIFE 19

Academic advisors are available for students to help with creating class schedules, declaring minors, working on career planning and much more.

FILE

Advisors’ tips for new students Texas A&M advisors encourage incoming students to utilize resources, plan ahead

By Julia Potts @juliaapotts Between the stress of choosing classes, finding new friends and figuring out how to balance all your new activities, being a new student can be quite intimidating. Luckily, there are some people to help you along the way.

Texas A&M has undergraduate advisors for every college on campus, as well as regional advisors both in Texas and out-of-state.

These advisors can help inform students on their personal careers at A&M and assist them in planning ahead.

Edwin Aguilar, academic advisor for the College of Engineering, said he recommends students visit their advisors multiple times throughout the semester to ensure they are well prepared.

“At the very minimum, at least twice a year,” Aguilar said. “Once at the beginning of the year just to figure things out, making sure everything is okay, and one toward the end of

the semester to help you figure out your next semester’s classes.”

Aguilar said students should not be afraid to go to their advisors if they have any questions, even if they are not specifically about classes.

Advisors can offer valuable advice for students looking for a place to start, he said.

“We’re here to help you figure out scheduling and stuff like that, but we also know a lot about Texas A&M,” Aguilar said. “A&M is a huge campus. If you’re ever lost, come visit an advisor. We often know people in different departments.”

Director of advising for the College of Liberal Arts Allison Rivera said advisors may also suggest organizations for students based on career and academic interests.

“Academic advisors are available for advice on course selection, degree planning, co-curricular opportunities like study abroad and honors, internship options, connections to resources on campus, campus clubs and involvement, and so much more,” Rivera said.

There are multiple ways for students to make appointments and get in contact with their advisors, Rivera said. For the most part, a student can call their advisor, make appoint-

ments through their Howdy Portal and occasionally do a walk-in appointments. Advisors most commonly use the Navigate program in Howdy to schedule appointments.

“It is very easy to access, either through the My Record tab in Howdy or via a mobile app called Navigate Student,” Rivera said. “The system will send you a reminder about your appointment, and you can save it to your calendar. Check your department’s website for more information, as most advising offices will also offer walk-in advising.”

Academic advisor for the College of Architecture Alondra Rojas said many students’ questions regard registration dates. She said advisors are just one of the resources students can use to answer these questions.

“The most frequently asked questions are things like ‘When is the deadline for XYZ?’ ‘Why can’t I get into this class?’” Rojas said.

“Honestly, the best answer is always, ‘Are you reading the whole course description? Are you checking your registration? Do you have any holds that may be restricting you from registering?’”

Rojas said students should pay attention to their A&M emails, which provides a lot of

information about registration times. She said she understands students receive a plethora of emails every day, but it is important to keep a lookout for important emails.

“Read your email and plan ahead,” Rojas said. “It sounds kind of funny to tell students constantly to read their emails, but we know that they get a lot of emails from a lot of promotional events and stuff like that. If you can just make sure that you read every email you get from your advisors, that would limit a lot of the problems that they run into.”

Rivera said advisors are there to help.

While some students may be hesitant about going to them for help, whether it has to do with school or personal achievement, there are many resources on campus waiting to answer questions.

“Your academic advisor wants to get to know you and assist you with resources to help you be a successful student,” Rivera said.

“Open up to your advisor, tell them your goals and dreams. We will be excited for you.

This university has a multitude of resources just for you, please utilize them.”

THE BATTALION MAROON LIFE 20

Find success in Aggieland

A first generation student celebration was held in Rudder Plaza in November 2019 to allow students to explore their resources.

Kaylee Cogbill — THE BATTALION

First generation students make A&M home through organizations, networking

By Jane Turchi @JaneTurchi Although an intimidating transition for any Aggie, incoming first generation students may experience extra difficulty while adjusting to college life. Texas A&M offers a range of advising and networking services for first generation Aggies preparing for college.

First generation college students represented nearly one fourth of students attending A&M in the spring 2020 semester. During the 2019-2020 school year, first generation student retention rates in the university increased over four percent.

Kelley O’Neal is the director at the Byrne Student Success Center. O’Neal works with students in the College of Education and Human Development’s First Generation Network.

“First gen students, they don’t have that source of information at home that they can go back to,” O’Neal said. “[They] don’t have that source of information at home, so we are that source for them.”

Opportunities exist for first generation students across the university. The First Generation Network offers workshops and access to

success coaches from the Academic Success Center. Colleges within the university often offer more degree-focused networking opportunities.

“Texas A&M is so big and there are so many resources, they can become overwhelmed,” O’Neal said. “Building that little first generation family makes the institution feel smaller.”

First Generation Aggies (FGA) is a student organization founded in 2019. University studies senior Abel Guerra serves the FGA as historian, assisting with the organization’s social media.

“A lot of first generations, when they come here ... everything’s new,” Guerra said. “We have an organization that is very open, and we just try to bring everyone together whether that be for our study sessions or giving advice on certain classes or just hanging out just anything in general, we really aspire to that environment.”

Performance studies sophomore Cassandra Rivera joined FGA in spring 2020. It was most helpful to receive advice from upperclassmen as a first generation student, Rivera said.

“I had no clue how to fill out student applications and things, that was definitely a big challenge for me,” Rivera said. “It’s really difficult to be a first generation student and not know what you’re doing and just having to figure everything out on your own because you don’t have the ability to ask your parents

to help.”

Connecting with fellow students is important as a first generation student, Guerra said.

Aggies hoping to become more connected can visit the FGA’s website or connect through their GroupMe. “I’m a first generation student so I can really connect to those feelings of being in a new environment and not really having anyone to go to,” Guerra said. “I think networking is probably one of the most important things throughout your college career, and we really provide that foundation for creating a network.”

Community health junior Ayde Ordaz joined FGA after being introduced to the organization at a tabling event. While college is exciting and fun, freshman year was a difficult transition, Ordaz said.

“I have an older sister who went to A&M, so thankfully I did have some guidance from her,” Ordaz said. “Either way as a first generation student you go through the process of applying and attending college completely blind because you honestly don’t know what it’s going to be like.”

Ordaz advises incoming first generation students to learn from their experiences, even if they fail a test or miss an assignment.

Through her own experiences, Ordaz learned to ask for help and push forward.

“As a first generation student I put that

much pressure on myself because of the fact that I didn’t want to disappoint my parents, I didn’t want to disappoint my sister, I didn’t want to disappoint myself,” Ordaz said. “Putting that much pressure on yourself, knowing that you have no experience … was very hard and very challenging.”

Ordaz built connections with other first generation students through FGA and other similar organizations. It is important to build connections to gain advice and encouragement, Ordaz said.

“The professors are there to help you, they want to help you,” Ordaz said. “Your advisors really are there to help you and reach out to the academic success center. There are resources that are free, just go and find what works for you.”

First generation students can be overwhelmed by the number of traditions at A&M, Ordaz said. Ordaz makes an effort to share the history behind traditions with other first generation students.

“Any first generation student that I meet is very intimidated by the traditions and they just look at me like ‘do you really stand at every single football game? Why do we do a wildcat?’” Ordaz said. “So getting to explain every single tradition to them in a very calm manner that isn’t overwhelming to them is pretty fun to see.”

THE BATTALION MAROON LIFE 21

Finding your Aggie family

FILE

With over 1,000 student organization to choose from, incoming students can get involved on campus in countless ways.

Student organizations connect likeminded people with similar interests

By Hannah Falcon @hannahfalcon_ As the largest university in the state, taking in Texas A&M as a new student may be overwhelming. When dealing with so many people from different backgrounds, getting involved is the first step toward finding your community.

There are over 1,000 student organizations at A&M. From social to service to professional, there is an organization for almost everything.

Many of these organizations will take part in MSC Open House during Howdy Week.

The process of joining student organizations could be as simple as attending a couple meetings or as complex as an entire recruitment process, depending on the organization.

One way to get involved at A&M is to become a part of the traditions that make the school unique. Kristen Sarna, Class of 2020, joined Traditions Council her sophomore year and became chair her last year of college.

Sarna said she chose Traditions Council because she loves the way traditions unite Aggies

through hard times and good times.

“I got to educate students about traditions and be a part of coordinating and hosting the actual ceremonies for traditions like Bonfire Remembrance,” Sarna said. “This organization has been one of the most defining parts of my time at Texas A&M!” Aside from growing in her leadership and experiencing Aggie traditions up close, Sarna said Traditions Council introduced her to some of her best friends.

“Find an organization that you think matches your interests and be open to meeting new members,” Sarna said. “Organizations are an incredible way to meet tons of people with similar interests.”

Some organizations combine social activities with service, such as Greek life or men’s and women’s organizations. Madi Telschow, English senior and president of Aggie Gamma Phi Beta, said she chose to rush her freshman year because she was looking for a community similar to her high school cheer team.

“My [cheer] coach was an absolutely inspiring mentor, and the team that she built was a place full of vulnerability and friendship,” Telschow said. “Now that’s not to say that we didn’t have our drama, but the family that I was able to find in this group of girls was

thoroughly encouraging and supportive.”

Telschow said she never expected to run for president of her sorority, but she chose to get more involved because she fell in love with the constant sisterhood. From Bid Day and Hurricane Harvey her freshman year to the coronavirus pandemic, Telschow said her Gamma Phi sisters have always supported and encouraged her.

“I think it’s easy to feel isolated in college — in academics, in faith, in the normal everyday — but GPhi (especially my GPhi family) reminds me that I’m not alone,” Telschow said. “Even more so, it reminds me that I am unique in who I am, and I can be confident in the strong woman that makes me.”

For students interested in meeting friends while furthering their career, A&M is home to many professional organizations, such as PreLaw Society or Future Aggie Nurses. Amberly Carson, kinesiology senior, said she joined the Texas A&M Physical Therapy Society her sophomore year to meet more pre-physical therapy students who can help her prepare for the process of applying to graduate school.

“I have gained relationships with people going through the same journey to eventually attend physical therapy school,” Carson said.

“I have been able to learn about the expecta-

tions of physical therapy programs in Texas and how to prepare myself to be a good applicant.”

Aside from social, professional and service organizations, A&M also has many activityor hobby-based student organizations. Molly Janak, interdisciplinary studies senior, has been a member of the Century Singers choir since her freshman year. Janak auditioned at her New Student Conference, but there are also opportunities to audition during Howdy Week.

“The audition process is pretty simple, and not much preparation is needed on your part,” Janak said.

Choir allows students to share their passion with the entire Aggie community, Janak said.

Janak encourages all students to find an organization where they can express themselves with other like-minded people.

“Joining choir was one of the best decisions I made in my college career; it connected me with so many people I would have never met otherwise,” Janak said. “College is such a big place and it can feel overwhelming at times, but having an organization to call home makes it feel just a little less big.”

THE BATTALION MAROON LIFE 22

BEST OF AGGIELAND WINNERS Every year, The Battalion sends a survey out to students asking them to vote on their favorite places to shop, eat and visit in Bryan-College Station. Results are published in the Best of Aggieland edition of Maroon Life Magazine. Take a look at this year’s winners at tx.ag/BOA2019, and keep an eye out for our survey this fall so you can cast your vote for the next magazine.

Photos by Meredith Seaver, Kaylee Cogbill — THE BATTALION

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