WEEKLY PRINT EDITION
WEDNESDAY, MAY 4 – THURSDAY, MAY 12, 2016 VOLUME 102, ISSUE 33
SAN DIEGO STATE UNIVERSITY’S INDEPENDENT STUDENT NEWS SOURCE SINCE 1913
NEWS
Man behind fliers to speak on campus P2
W W W . T H E D A I LYA Z T E C . C O M
GWYNN
LIVES ON
TYLER ADKISON SDSU OUTFIELDER
MUNDO
A.Ch.A. y su activismo en SDSU P7
ARTS & LIFESTYLE
New flip model improves learning P6
Heroes get remembered, but legends never die. This is a tribute to the legacy that Tony Gwynn left behind at San Diego State, told through those who were closest to him. Gwynn is not only one of the greatest and most respected ambassadors for San Diego State, but for the entire city of San Diego. You hear all about Gwynn and his eight batting titles and his Hall-ofFame career, but now you can hear what those he considered family have to say about him. The true Tony Gwynn, behind the bright lights and fame, how he acted and went about his daily life. We can all learn from Gwynn and carry his legacy on forever at SDSU.
SENIOR FAREWELLS
DA seniors say goodbye P18-21 The Daily Aztec publishes its printed weekly edition on Wednesdays and serves the students, faculty and community of San Diego State University.
Thank you for reading. The Daily Aztec will resume printing August 10. Visit thedailyaztec.com for continued coverage.
2 NEWS
MAY 4 - MAY 12, 2016 • THE DAILY AZTEC EDITOR: JAMIE BALLARD • NEWS@THEDAILYAZTEC.COM
#DAVIDHOROWITZ
David Horowitz on campus May 5 JOCELYN MORAN WILL FRITZ STAFF WRITERS ____________________________________ The San Diego State College Republicans club will be hosting a speaking engagement with David Horowitz on Thursday, May 5. This event comes after recent campus protests regarding fliers put up by the David Horowitz Freedom Center. The fliers named student and faculty activists and said they were “allied with Palestinean terrorists.” The College Republicans club said they have spent several months planning to have David Horowitz speak on campus, and the event will move forward despite the recent protest. Last week’s protest occurred after SDSU President Elliot Hirshman sent out a statement via email to all SDSU students on Tuesday April 26 addressing the fliers. In the email, Hirshman wrote that he fully supports the rights of all parties to voice their positions on political issues. “First, we recognize and fully support the rights of all parties to voice their positions on political issues, whether supportive or critical. We also understand that when parties adopt a specific political position they become responsible for their actions and these actions may produce criticism,” he wrote. Hirshman wrote in the email that individually naming students may discourage them from participating in Hablamos Español
SAN DIEGO
Students surrounded a police car containing President Hirshman on April 27, after he refused to condemn fliers posted by the David Horowitz Freedom Center. KATELYN MULCAHY, STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
political discussions. Many students felt his statement did not strongly enough condemn the Horowitz Center’s fliers, which specifically target activists associated with the Boycott, Divest, Sanction movement. Monique Dela Cruz, publicist for the SDSU College Republicans, said the David Horowitz event was organized Sponsor of the 2016 Concert Series
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before the protest and will continue to move forward, but she is unsure if Horowitz will address the issue. The club wrote in a release that they were not aware of the flyers being posted on campus and do not know who is responsible for them. Dela Cruz said they were warned of a 100-person march organized by the Muslim Student Union that will take place during the event. In response to the warning, the club said they would not be silenced by the protest. A post by the SDSU College Republicans on the Facebook event page reads, “While we believe in the right to peaceful assembly, based on past experiences we have reason to believe that their protests will be anything but peaceful. Just ask President Hirshman... We will do our best to ensure that anyone who wants to listen to Mr. Horowitz speak will be able to do so without being rudely disrupted.” “I hope it is just a silent protest and I hope people realize he is just one small part of those advocating for Israel and doesn’t represent the whole,” said Jonathan Graubart, political science professor. “(Students) can see Horowitz’s side on this issue rather than only seeing the protester’s side that we got last week,” Dela Cruz said. “They actually get to see him talk rather than see what’s on his website or what people may post about him in a negative light.” The College Republicans’ statement explains that the difference between their club, the GOP and other clubs is that it stands by Israel as allies to the United States, similar to how the Republican Party has stood by them throughout history. “Even when there are tensions between student organizations, the underlying message and theme throughout these events is that AntiSemitism anywhere, especially on college campuses, is inexcusable,” the statement says. “BDS movement will always be contrasted by our allegiance to defending Israel and Judaism from verbal and symbolic attacks.” “We reserve the right to utilize freedom of speech as we also recognize the same right to demonstrators and the right to peaceful assembly,” Dela Cruz said. “It will be interesting to see what will happen, we still want anyone to hear Horowitz speak and to be able to do so without being disrupted.”
David Horowitz defended his flyers and said the seven SDSU students named are “allies of terrorism.” “If you look at the propaganda, if you look at what SJP (Students for Justice in Palestine) stands for, it says it’s for justice in Palestine. Bologna!” Horowitz said. “SJP has one goal, and that’s to spread Hamas propaganda that’s designed to destroy the only Jewish state,” he said. “I would never put a student’s name on a list...but these aren’t students, they’re political activists.” Miranda Koster and Anthony Berteaux, co-leaders of the Students for Justice in Palestine, do not support the flyers. “It’s inappropriate, no matter how you look at it,” Berteaux said. “Flyers like this have no place on our campus, and they need to be recognized for what they are, which is hate speech.” On Monday, May 2, Hirshman, Associated Students president Jamie Miller, and several members of the administration met with BDS activists Osama Alkhawaja and Rachel Beck, two of the students named in the fliers. Alkhawaja and Beck both reported that they were not entirely satisfied, and feel the issue is far from over. “I feel absolutely betrayed by my university,” Beck said. “I pay $30,000 to go here, and they haven’t defended me from these accusations that I am a terrorist.” “The thing that I don’t understand is, why is it so hard for you to come out and make a statement saying that your students aren’t terrorists?” Alkhawaja said. “The university continues to defend free speech, but this is hate speech.” Alkhawaja reported that the university said they’re not willing to condemn the posters and say that they were hate speech or intimidation. The SDSU College Republicans have not yet released exactly which room the event will be held in. They plan to announce it the day of the event, May 5. The event page reads, “Protesters will NOT be allowed in. Students with a Red ID can sit in and listen peacefully and ask questions at the appropriate Q&A time.” The only people who will be allowed into the event are people with a Red ID, or people on a predetermined guest list. Individuals who wish to be on the guest list can email sdsucr@gmail.com before the event. Additional reporting by news editor Jamie Ballard.
NEWS 3
MAY 4 - MAY 12, 2016 • THE DAILY AZTEC EDITOR: JAMIE BALLARD • NEWS@THEDAILYAZTEC.COM
#SEXUALASSAULT
Lawsuit against SDSU continues JAMIE BALLARD NEWS EDITOR ____________________________________ An SDSU student, identified only as 19-year-old “John Doe” in official court documents is bringing charges against the university, claiming that he was unfairly expelled after a Title IX investigation which began approximately 1 year ago. THE INVESTIGATION On April 27, 2015, a 19-year-old SDSU student identified as “Jane Roe” in the court documents filed a Title IX complaint, alleging that “John Doe” had sexually assaulted her on April 18. Dr. Lee Mintz, director of the center for student rights and responsibilities was the investigator. She interviewed Roe on April 27, the day of the initial finding. Mintz contacted Doe the same day, notifying him of the allegations of misconduct and the denial of access to person and property. Doe was a member of Theta Chi fraternity, and was barred from Greek-related activity. In the process of Mintz’s investigation, she also spoke to students who had interacted with Doe and Roe the day of the alleged assault. The investigative report was released on Aug. 18, 2015, and Doe was notified of his interim suspension on Aug. 20. A hearing was scheduled for Aug. 28. At the hearing, his interim suspension was upheld. A second hearing was scheduled for
Oct. 15. He was notified of his expulsion on Nov. 13. NO RIGHT TO APPEAL? Doe sent an email to Eric Rivera on Nov. 17, requesting a copy of the hearing officer’s report, and information on the appeal process. He sent another email, with the same request on Nov. 19. He sent a third email on Nov. 24, requesting the same report and appeal information. Antionette Marbray, the Associate Vice President for Student Affairs responded to the Nov. 24 email. She told Doe that according to Executive Order 1098 of Title IX, the university wasn’t required to send him a copy of the hearing officer’s report, but they would provide one to him nonetheless. She also wrote that the Executive Order should not include notice of the student’s right to appeal, simply because there are no options for appeal. “The Executive Order does not provide any further appeal within the California State University System,” she wrote. Executive Order 1098, in its present iteration, reads, “The decision letter shall include: The outcome of the hearing on sanctions, including any sanction imposed and the name of the Student charged; and A copy of the Hearing Officer’s report, redacted as appropriate or as otherwise required by law. Notice of the Complainant’s and Student’s right to appeal to the CO.” EO1098 was revised on June 23, 2015, while Mintz was in the middle of
her investigation. However, she wrote in an email,“the Executive Order and investigative processes used to investigate an incident is based on the date the incident occurred.” In this case, Doe’s investigation was subject to the previous version of Executive Order 1098, which provides no apparent method to appeal. Despite Marbray’s email, Doe continued to seek ways to appeal. Though EO1098 provided no options, he submitted a Level II appeal to the chancellor’s office under Executive Order 1097. EO1097 was also revised on June 23, 2015. Assistant Vice Chancellor Linda Hanson responded to Doe’s appeal. “EO1097, Article VII.A. states that only a complainant has the right to an appeal and an appeal may only be granted if the investigation finds no violation (of ) EO97,” she wrote. Given these responses, it appears that Doe had no options for appealing the decision under the then-effective Executive Orders. According to Mintz, “When an appeal is filed, the appeal must be based on one of more of the following issues: the outcome is unsupported by evidence, procedural errors were prejudicial and the investigation did not comply with the Executive Order, or if new evidence becomes available that was not available at the time of the investigation.” WHAT HAPPENS NEXT
A civil case management conference is scheduled for June 10. Attorney for the CSU William Hsu said that a civil case management conference simply involves both parties filling out an info sheet about the case, and figuring out the best way to move forward. “We anticipate the court will say the decision reached by the CSU was fair,” he said. Mark Hathaway, who is representing John Doe in this case, said “the evidence simply doesn’t support the findings.” He also claims that certain pieces of evidence, including a polygraph test and testimony from a marijuana expert, were ignored. His firm, Werksman, Jackson, Hathaway and Quinn, specializes in defending students accused in Title IX cases. “I’m interested in these cases because what we’re seeing is valuable rights being taken away by what appears to be a political agenda,” he said. “If there’s not fair process for everybody, hundreds of thousands of students in the CSU system risk losing their right to an education arbitrarily.” This is the second case in a year in which the university has been accused of mishandling a Title IX investigation. In April 2015, Francisco Sousa sued the university for not providing information necessary to his defense. The case is pending, but his suspension was lifted in September.
4 SPORTS
MAY 4 - MAY 12, 2016 • THE DAILY AZTEC EDITOR: RYAN POSNER • SPORTS@THEDAILYAZTEC.COM
#AZTECMTENNIS
Rain delay dampens Aztecs
Who’sWho? EDITOR IN CHIEF Kelly Hillock MANAGING EDITOR Matthew Bain NEWS EDITOR Jamie Ballard ASST. NEWS EDITOR Jacob Sisneros SPORTS EDITOR Ryan Posner ASST. SPORTS EDITOR Anthony Reclusado OPINION EDITOR Joseph Ciolino MUNDO AZTECA/ASST. OPINION EDITOR Jose Guzman ARTS & LIFESTYLE EDITOR Ryo Miyauchi ASST. ARTS & LIFESTYLE EDITOR Olivia Litsey PHOTO EDITOR Cristian Rangel ASST. PHOTO EDITOR Sarah Smith DIGITAL CONTENT EDITOR Annalise Dewhurst VIDEO PRODUCER Daniel Galuppo PRODUCTION DESIGNERS Kaylee Andrews Hannah Lingle-Veale
Redshirt-senior Freddy Gelrbirch played his possible last match for the San Diego State men’s tennis team last Saturday at the Mountain West Championships. FILE PHOTO
AUSTIN GAYLE STAFF WRITER ____________________________________ After taking the doubles point to begin the match, the San Diego State men’s tennis team couldn’t close out the Mountain West Championship semifinal against No. 59 Boise State last Saturday due in large part to a threehour rain delay that took place after doubles play. Entering the tournament as a No. 3 seed, SDSU fell to No. 2 seed Boise State, 4-2. “We set ourselves up pretty well to possibly close this match out pretty early, but unfortunately we had a torrential downpour and rain that kind of came out of nowhere,” SDSU head coach Gene Carswell said. “We had a three-hour rain delay and had to travel across town. They found some indoor courts that we could finish the match on, and unfortunately it changed our momentum. They’re a team that plays indoors and we’re more of an outdoor team, so they kind of got in their element and did a good job of fighting back.” SDSU moved from UNLV’s Fertitta Tennis Complex to LifeTime Fitness in
Summerlin, Nevada, after the match was suspended at 4:35 p.m. The two teams resumed play indoors at 7:10 p.m. Prior to the suspension, Carswell noted that SDSU had already claimed the doubles point and had three first sets already in hand. In doubles play, junior Hendrik Jebens and freshman Sander GjoelsAndersen finished off their opponents first, as the two took down sophomores Lewis Roskilly and Thomas Tenreiro, 6-3. SDSU’s top pairing secured the point with their 7-5 win on court No. 1, which in turn, left junior Mark GolesBabic and redshirt-senior Freddy Gelbrich’s match against senior Brian Foley and freshman Pedro Platzeck unfinished at 6-6. Despite having Goles-Babic carry his momentum through the rain delay with an early 6-3, 6-3 win over Platzeck in singles play, the Aztecs failed to mirror his success. SDSU freshman Raul de la Torre suffered a 3-6, 0-6 defeat to Roskilly at the No. 6 spot, and GjoelsAndersen and Jebens followed suit with back-to-back two-set losses against Butters and Tenreiro, respectively. Though junio Millen Ianakiev had a chance to keep SDSU’s hopes alive after
taking the first set over Mitchell, 6-3, he would go on to drop two consecutive sets, 6-7, 3-6. If Ianakiev was able to pull out a win against Mitchell, Gelbrich did have a 6-2, 3-6, 6-5 lead over Foley on court No. 1, but his match was left unfinished. Though SDSU still has a chance to receive an at-large bid to the NCAA Division I Men’s Tennis Championship, Carswell has a firm understanding of the Aztecs’ current situation and is almost certain that this was SDSU’s last match of the season. Looking into next season, SDSU will be without senior Freddy Gelbrich, who plays at the No. 3 spot in doubles and on court No. 1 in singles. With that being said, Carswell is hoping to lean on his younger players to do big things in the fall. “I think it was a great, great year for those younger guys,” Carswell said. “This summer is going to important for them. They need to gout and play tournaments, compete, and continue to build upon what we laid down as the foundation. Our guys are going to come back and compete and continue to grow, and I’m excited to see them when they get back.”
VOLUNTEER WRITERS Jocelyn Moran Will Fritz Juliana McDowell Lehi Naseem Nicole Sazegar Christine Whitman Monserrat Torres Andrea Lopez-Villafaña Alek Sanchez Brandon Truffa Maxim Garshman VOLUNTEER PHOTOGRAPHERS Katelyn Mulcahy Kalie Christensen _____________________________________ ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Radbeh Ravaz SALES MANAGER Matthew Volk ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Alexis Evans-Bendel Alex Gamboa Christopher Garcia Kamisha McKnight Keon Siavoshani Kelsey Silver John Weil ACCOUNTING & CONTRACTS Alfonso Barajas Kalie Christensen _____________________________________ GENERAL MANAGER Jay Harn GRAPHICS SPECIALIST Chris Blakemore _____________________________________ ADVERTISING 619.594.6977 advertising@thedailyaztec.com EDITORIAL 619.594.4190 editor@thedailyaztec.com PRINT The Daily Aztec publishes 5,000 copies of its weekly print edition on Wednesdays. WEB Daily content is available at www.thedailyaztec.com MOBILE The Aztec App (available for iPhone and Android)
SOCIAL MEDIA facebook.com/dailyaztec twitter.com/thedailyaztec instagram.com/thedailyaztec _____________________________________ Weekly in print, daily online. The Daily Aztec has been San Diego State University’s independent student news source since 1913.
MAY 4 - MAY 12, 2016 • THE DAILY AZTEC EDITOR: JOSEPH CIOLINO • OPINION@THEDAILYAZTEC.COM
OPINION 5
#FIRSTAMENDMENT
Editorial: We stand by our decision EDITORIAL BOARD ____________________________________ Recently, several students and members of the media have criticized The Daily Aztec’s decision to run an advertisement purchased by the David Horowitz Freedom Center. The advertisement in question ran in our April 20 issue, shortly before protests erupted regarding anti-Boycott, Divestment and Sanction posters on campus from the same organization. The advertisement ran with a disclaimer that The Daily Aztec did not necessarily support or endorse the content. But we stand by the decision to run the advertisement. As a news organization, we strongly believe in the freedom of speech, which includes a person’s right (or a group’s right) to publish his or her opinion,
even if that opinion could be considered The Society of Professional Journalists’ it might offend someone. offensive to some. We serve to reflect the Code of Ethics calls upon us to, “deny Unlike the posters on campus, which voices of all students and community favored treatment to advertisers, donors named activists, we strongly believe members in our paper, regardless of the or any other special interests, and this advertisement did not endanger perspective. any students. It was a One of the ways we condemnation of antiIF WE AS AN EDITORIAL BOARD BEGAN determine whether or Semitism on campus, not a politically charged TO DISTINGUISH BETWEEN THE ADS THAT which used language advertisement should run that some found WE PERSONALLY AGREED WITH AND involves asking ourselves offensive. if we would run a similar And we believe that ADS WE PERSONALLY DISAGREED WITH, advertisement from an these students had a IT WOULD IRREVOCABLY DAMAGE OUR organization on the opposing right to be offended, side. just as we believe INTEGRITY AS A NEWS ORGANIZATION. Would we have run an the David Horowitz ad from a pro-Palestine Freedom Center had organization that used similar language? resist internal and external pressure to a right to purchase the potentially The answer is yes. influence coverage.” offending advertisement. If we as an editorial board began to If we had chosen not to run the Overall, we’re excited to see the distinguish between the ads that we advertisement, we would have been in students on our campus engaging in personally agreed with and ads we violation of the ethics that guide us. passionate political discourse about a personally disagreed with, it would number of issues, including this one. We would have let down our readers irrevocably damage our integrity as a We welcome any and all commentary — and ourselves if we chose not to run an news organization. advertisement or article simply because even if it might offend us.
#FREESPEECH
Students shouldn’t be afraid to speak out LEHI NASEEM CONTRIBUTOR _____________________________________ Speak out. Voice your opinion. Get involved. You’re safe. Students of San Diego State University have become familiar with statements like these. Plastered on bulletin boards in hallways, enlarged on websites promoting student involvement on campus, and spoken by faculty members we admire and respect. But where has this encouragement left many of our students who are speaking in defense of controversial topics such as the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) movement? Over the past few weeks, several students who have been politically active regarding the BDS movement on campus have been publicly accused of “allying” themselves with “Palestinian terrorists” on a flyer that was circulating around campus created by the Horowitz Freedom Center. To which President Hirshman responded by sending out a mass email
explaining the consequences that come with expressing personal political positions. The vague email continued to simply advise the accusers to abstain from discouraging the named students from continuing to participate in political discussions on campus. While also reminding the students who were personally targeted that they are “responsible” for the viewpoints they convey and should be prepared for criticism. There was no explanation about the flyer. There was no condemnation. Several students saw the injustice in Hirshman’s brief and inadequate email, including A.S. Board of Directors member Mustafa Alemi. Alemi helped organize the silent protest on April 27 in hopes of receiving a proper response from Hirshman. He explained that the protest began as a silent group within chambers but slowly grew into an upset crowd of students who were shocked at the way Hirshman simply ignored the small group.
“He politically sidestepped and failed to address the issue,” Alemi said. He felt “disappointed” in Hirshman’s initial response and also his behavior towards the students involved in the protest. Hirshman didn’t feel the protest was an appropriate way for them to express their concern about the situation. But how else would students who have been constantly encouraged to speak up and fight for what they believe in respond? I understand that he may have been tiptoeing around the actual issue because he was avoiding what seemed to be a limitation on the rights of free speech on campus. However, I don’t understand how defamation of character could be mistaken as free speech in this particular situation. Students specifically named on the flyer were accused of having connections with terrorists. This was more than words of discouragement; this is an example of pure, unadulterated slander. Instead of condemning the flyer and defending the named students,
Hirshman avoided their concerns for weeks. And the students felt that the protest was the only way they could gain his attention. After ignoring the protesters for over an hour, Hirshman finally apologized for “inadvertently” upsetting students. While students understand that activism comes with criticism, they would hope to have a sense of security when it comes to situations that endanger their character and possibly their lives. Hirshman’s inadequate response towards the situation was a clear indicator of how unprotected they truly were. Students are speaking out, they are voicing their opinions, they have been involved, but they do not feel safe. Free speech has been stifled on college campuses before, but punishment for defamation is not equivalent to impeding on students rights. However, escaping the concerns of distressed students most certainly is. Even if it was only committed inadvertently.
#DONTSWEATTHESMALLSTUFF
Failure isn’t the end of the world, stay calm JULIANNA MCDOWELL STAFF WRITER _____________________________________ For as long as I could remember, I did not fail things. I know what you must be thinking – that’s impossible, everyone fails sometimes, but I’m serious. Ever since I was young, everything I was interested in and tried my hand at just kind of came naturally to me. Whether it was dance classes, reading and writing, sculpture and ceramics, or joining ASB, I can honestly say I don’t remember failing at something I really wanted and worked hard for. I applied for a job early on in my college career. It was one I had coveted since before my first year at San Diego State. Needless to say, I wanted this job badly. After applying confidently, I rested assured that I was a shoe-in. However, less than a week later, I received an
email informing me that I had not been given the job I had so desperately sought. I was mostly bewildered at the development. My psyche was plagued by hints of sadness and self-pity. I had never experienced such melancholy. Yet that melancholy was a sentiment I quickly ascertained as an integral and, more importantly, natural part of any college experience. Take the current Spring 2016 semester for instance, I have undoubtedly put myself out there and applied for numerous positions in many, if not all, of the organizations of which I am a part. I did not receive a single one of the aforementioned positions. Each and every time I failed, I felt as though that failure carved out a piece of myself. As the carvings became more frequent, they created a hole in me, and as the hole got bigger, I found myself inevitably beginning to pull back. I began to withdraw from the things
I loved in order to spare myself further hurt, disappointment or frustration. I concluded that I no longer wanted to put myself out there – especially when it felt like everyone around me was succeeding. After much introspection and soul searching (and possibly a lot of binging on ice cream too), I came to a realization. Failing in college is okay. Actually, I think college is exactly the right time to fail. I think students go into college unfit and underprepared to deal with the reality that you will not get everything you want. Failing, at least for me, has made me a stronger person. I am not afraid to keep trying new things. Failing, whether it be doing poorly on a test, or not getting a job, or even striking out with a guy or girl can feel like the end of the world. It reminds us, though, that we are human.
As J.K. Rowling says, “It is impossible to live without failing at something, unless you live so cautiously that you might as well not have lived at all – in which case, you fail by default.” I have tried so many things, and I have failed just as many. It has beaten me down. I have felt as though the changes and the passion I could infused into these positions and organizations were not being recognized. I was not being given a chance to make the impact that I perceived myself making; however, I realized that by simply taking part in something bigger than myself, I had already impacted them. Maybe not in the fashion I would have chosen if given the opportunity, but definitely in the way the universe wants me to at this stage of my life. Failing, especially in college, is inevitable. It is human. But, most importantly, it is okay.
6 ARTS & LIFESTYLE
MAY 4 - 12, 2016 • THE DAILY AZTEC EDITOR: RYO MIYAUCHI • ENTERTAINMENT@THEDAILYAZTEC.COM
#LEARNINGGLASS
New flip model improves learning NICOLE SAZEGAR SENIOR STAFF WRITER ______________________________________ When applied mathematics assistant professor Antoni Luque came to San Diego State in January 2015, he decided to dedicate an entire semester to developing his research program on biomathematics and viruses that infect bacteria. During this same time, Luque began learning new ways to improve the classroom learning process for his students. While attending many Center for Learning and Teaching workshops, Luque learned new initiatives promoted on campus. He took a workshop that taught him how to implement teambased learning, and from there he created a new class model. But before Luque started his new class format, he knew he wanted to implement more active work in class and needed a way to provide the lectures and materials needed for team-based activities. The solution was found in physics professor Matt Anderson’s learning glass invention. The learning glass is a glass board that allows instructors to write their notes on the board while facing students. By combining team-based learning
In the summer, he will attend an with the learning glass, Luque created institute with other CSU faculty who are the flip model class that allows students working with similar models to discuss to access the lecture online and work in how to improve the flip class format. teams on exercises in class. After using this model, Luque noticed “When I saw (the learning glass), I a decrease in the percentage of students thought ‘OK, this is exactly the technique who received grades of C- or lower I need if I want to flip the class and have compared to a normal lecture-based the lecture accessible online and focus class. on working in class, so I get a better Luque says he likes this model because (understanding) of how people progress and what students get stuck on,’” Luque said. Luque first implemented this new model in his Methods of Applied Math I class in fall 2015. While he said it worked just decently, he learned from the mistakes of his first attempt. In his Methods of Applied Math II class in spring 2016, Luque modified his model with the The learning glass allows instructors to write notes while facing students. COURTESY OF MATT ANDERSON help of a grant given to him by the Center for students can breach their knowledge and Teaching and Learning. provide alternative ways to approach He was also awarded a grant to problems by putting their heads together. keep refining the flip class model after “I can’t provide in one lecture a diverse demonstrating his accomplishments he learning because I’m just one brain,” has had so far with it.
Luque said. “But if I craft five resources, I have a team of five people, so I’m using five resources that might optimize the learning of each (student).” Luque has also noticed that teambased class model helps students learn better by teaching each other. “When you have a student who just learned the technique, they might have a better way of explaining the nuances of how to solve a problem, whereas a lecturer who has mastered it might say ‘this is simple, you just do this and this and you have your answer,’’” Luque said. Anderson believes Luque’s use of the learning glass is very popular and students seem to react very well to it. Luque says the ideal model of teambased learning coupled with the learning glass is to allow students to apply what they’re learning in class to the real world. The flip class model not only benefits students, but it also helps him as a professor, Luque said. “When I go to class, I have the teams and they’re working and they’re invested, and while I’m walking around, they don’t want me to talk to them because they’re solving it on their own or some of them ask for help,” Luque said. “It is a very good interaction, I get to know the students better.”
#BUSINESSMANAGEMENT
Dancing is business for junior from Italy CHRISTINE WHITMAN SENIOR STAFF WRITER ______________________________________ At 8, Carlo Di Dio discovered the art of ballet. At 14, he became a professional dancer, falling in love with its challenges. “You’re considered a professional dancer when you finish your schooling,” Di Dio said. “But during your schooling you have the opportunity to perform with the company so you can grow your knowledge and understand how rehearsals run on stage.” The business management junior was raised in Procida, one of three islands off the coast of southern Italy. Di Dio began to study dance at Procida Hall Studio before beginning his formal training at San Carlo Opera House. Di Dio then moved to Harmony dance school
in Naples with his teacher, Arnaldo Angelini. After graduating in 2005, Di Dio began dancing throughout Europe before moving to the U.S. in October 2009, where he met his now current girlfriend, business management senior Bernadette Torres. “Carlo’s personality is not that of a typical dancer,” she said. “He loves being in the studio, but we’re both so ambitious, motivated and curious to see what lies outside. He’s always trying to reach the next level and do something more.” When Di Dio is preparing for a performance, he works out five to six times a day. When he’s just trying to stay in shape, it’s only three hours Monday through Friday. To Di Dio, “working out” consists of class, rehearsal then the gym—at least twice a day. “I’ve been doing this since I was eight,” Di Dio said. “It’s a routine, it’s
normal. When you get into a routine, it’s hard to stop.” Di Dio said he always wanted to attend college, but in Italy, students pay tuition fees for the entire year and online classes are unavailable. He thought about what he wanted to do after ballet and after coming to the United States and realized getting a degree is crucial. “I wanted to be more involved with the business side of the company,” Di Dio said. “A company grows when you know how to motivate people and that’s what business management helps me with. It helps me understand people and motivate them to give their best performance.” Di Dio began pursuing business management at Southwestern Community College in 2012. Not knowing any English, which Di Dio says has been his biggest challenge, he spent three years at SCC taking all the
prerequisite English classes before being admitted to San Diego State. “One day my girlfriend brought me to campus and I was so shocked,” he said. “This American campus looked just like on a college on television and I knew this was where I wanted to go.” Di Dio began as an entry-level dancer, but with his many years of artistic experience with technique and rehearsal, quickly moved to a principal dancer in San Diego. “My teacher used to say, ‘you can’t fake dance,’” Di Dio said. “The audience will feel you in that moment and know you’re faking it. On stage, it’s just you.” Although ballet is challenging, Di Dio says you need to do what makes you happy. “You have to believe in yourself,” he said. “If you believe in yourself, everyone believes in you. At the end of the day, that’s your truth.”
MAY 4 - 12, 2016 • THE DAILY AZTEC EDITOR: JOSÉ GUZMÁN-QUIRINO• MUNDO@THEDAILYAZTEC.COM
MUNDO AZTECA 7
#A.CH.A.SDSU
A.Ch.A. y su activismo en la SDSU
Las Achistas se consideran lideres comunitarios que se enfocan en la educación y en ayudar a su comunidad. CORTESIA DE A.CH.A.
MONSERRAT TORRES ESCRITORA ______________________________________ La Asociación de Activistas Chicanas (A.Ch.A.) de la San Diego State University brinda las herramientas necesarias para que las mujeres activistas sean líderes y generen un cambio en la sociedad. Esta organización fue creada en 1991 ya que sus fundadores querían discutir problemas relacionados con la mujer. La filosofía de A.Ch.A se basa en cuatro pilares: educación, política, cultura y espiritualidad. Otros conceptos fundamentales para A.Ch.A. son el apoyo, la motivación y la
hermandad. Rebecca Arreola, estudiante de estudios latinoamericanos y encargada de becas de esta organización, dijo que el aspecto más importante es crear conciencia. “Una vez que eres consciente, puedes lograr que otros se den cuenta de esto y ayudar a tu comunidad”, dijo Arreola. También dijo que actualmente la organización cuenta con 25 miembros quienes se reúnen todos los jueves a partir de las 3:30 de la tarde. Para ser miembro no hay ningún costo porque la organización provee todo lo necesario para las actividades del semestre. Cualquier persona puede formar parte de A.Ch.A., ser mujer o hispano
no es un requisito, explicó Arreola. Pero dejó en claro que aunque haya miembros hombres y de otras etnias, todo lo que se discute está relacionado con la comunidad latina y chicana. Marisol Vásquez, estudiante de ciencias políticas y encargada de la organización, dijo que se unió porque buscaba un espacio donde pudiera sentirse como en casa ya que no es de San Diego. De acuerdo con Vásquez, A.Ch.A. sirve las mismas funciones que una hermandad y por eso desde que se unió a la organización no ha necesitado ser parte de una. “Para estar en A.Ch.A. no necesito pagar y puedo ser mujer, activista, chicana, novia y todo lo que quiera”, dijo Vázquez. “Todo lo que hacemos es con la expectativa de ayudar a nuestra comunidad”. Vásquez dijo que este semestre las juntas se han enfocado en el aspecto social y que en algunas juntas se discuten temas de las mujeres alrededor del mundo y en otras sobre las mujeres revolucionarias que han dejado huella en la historia. Otras juntas promueven el diálogo y el apoyo mutuo en temas que pueden ser difíciles de tratar como el sexo, la identidad o la autoexploración. Uno de los eventos más importantes de la organización es la conferencia anual para estudiantes de escuela secundaria (preparatoria) que realizan cada abril. En la pasada conferencia se reunieron más
de 200 alumnos de diferentes estudiantes de escuela secundaria (preparatoria) de la zona de San Diego. Durante la conferencia hubo talleres educacionales en los que los estudiantes fueron orientados acerca de la importancia de seguir sus estudios universitarios. “Este evento lo planeamos durante todo el año, porque queremos que los estudiantes (vayan a) la universidad”. Samanta Ledesma, estudiante de criminología y miembro de A.Ch.A., dijo que ha participado de diferentes protestas y formar parte de estas la ha ayudado a estar consciente de los problemas que viven los chicanos, los latinos y otras comunidades. “Me ha permitido ser más conciente acerca de diferentes temas y me deja expresar mi voz en asuntos que son importantes y que uno tiene que discutir”, dijo Ledesma. “A.Ch.A. no es solo un lugar donde latinos o latinas se unen y practican el activismo y enfrentan las dificultades que tienen las mujeres, es un lugar donde nos juntamos y nos apoyamos el uno al otro”. Nadia Cruz, graduada de la SDSU y quien formó parte de esta organización cuando fue estudiante dijo que aquí fue donde pudo crecer como líder. “A.Ch.A me ayudó a crecer como mujer”, dijo Cruz. “Crecí más aún cuando mi hermana ingresó a esta organización, pudimos trabajar juntas y la vi crecer de ser mi hermana menor a una estudiante y una líder”.
Oficina para el beneficio de la SDSU ANDREA LOPEZ-VILLAFAÑA ESCRITORA ____________________________________ La San Diego State University (SDSU) acaba de añadir un servicio indispensable para la comunidad universitaria ya que inauguró una oficina para obtener el pasaporte. Esta oficina está localizada en el lado oeste de la universidad, en la esquina de la Calle 55 y Aztec Circle. Esta oficina es una de cuatro oficinas en el condado de San Diego en la cual no se requiere una cita para servicios como la solicitud y fotos para pasaportes. Antes muchos estudiantes tenían que acudir a la University of California San Diego para este tipo de trámites.
En esta oficina uno no puede renovar su pasaporte. Noah Hansen, director del centro internacional para estudiantes de la SDSU, dijo que están entusiasmados de tener una oficina de pasaportes para la universidad y sus alrededores. “Es una oportunidad increíble para demonstrar que estamos aquí para ayudar y apoyar a la comunidad al ofrecer este servicio práctico y eficiente”, dijo Hansen. Según Hansen como la universidad es reconocida por sus programas internacionales y su enfoque en preparar estudiantes para ser ciudadanos globales, la instalación es lógica dentro SDSU. Y es que el Institute for International Education’s Open Doors clasificó a la SDSU en la puesto número 15 de toda la
nación en mandar a sus estudiantes al extranjero a estudiar. Yesenia Ortega, estudiante de ingeniería civil que viajó a Italia y Francia en mayo del año pasado, dijo que si esta oficina hubiera estado disponible en 2015 su proceso para obtener el pasaporte estadounidense hubiera sido mucho más fácil. “Como todo lo que se tiene que hacer para el proceso de estudiar en el extranjero está en la escuela, y ahora que la oficina de pasaportes esta aquí, va a ser un proceso más fácil y rápido para los estudiantes”, dijo Ortega. “Será más fácil que cuando estuve manejando y buscando una oficina de correos”. Lisa Shiroma, alumna de la SDSU, tuvo la oportunidad de estudiar en Cuba y
España mientras obtenía su bachelor . “Los que escogen estudiar en otro país se ven forzados a hacer una cita e ir al correo más cercano. El hecho de que la SDSU ya tiene una oficina solamente ayuda a hacer el proceso interno más rápido”, dijo Shiroma. Puede ser posible que en estos primeros meses esta oficina este saturada por estudiantes, de este modo existe la posibilidad que una persona no pueda hacer su trámite si no cuenta con una cita. La oficina está abierta de lunes a viernes. Pero el horario varía un poco ya que los lunes las puertas abren de 9:30 de la mañana a 3:30 de la tarde, mientras que los martes, miércoles, jueves y viernes entre las 9 de la mañana y las 3 de la tarde.
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TONY GWYNN
MAY 4 - 12, 2016 • THE DAILY AZTEC EDITOR: RYAN POSNER • SPORTS@THEDAILYAZTEC.COM
#TONYGWYNN
The life of Number 19 celebrated
RYAN POSNER SPORTS EDITOR ____________________________________ Who was Tony Gwynn? To everyone he had different meaning. From some of the people you will hear from in this issue he was a teammate, for others he was a coach and for one he was a father. A common denominator between the people who shared their memories about Gwynn was that he was an influential figure that could light up a room no matter his state of health. Gwynn was everything you could hope
record. He didn’t begin his collegiate baseball career until his sophomore year, but was quickly an impact player and was a twotime All-American, while leading the team in hitting his final two seasons. Gwynn’s ability to succeed in basketball and baseball came to fruition on June 10, 1981 when he was selected by the San Diego Clippers in the NBA Draft and by the San Diego Padres in the MLB Draft. The San Diego Padres were his choice, though, and from there a Hall-of-Fame career was born. There are a ton of stats that define Tony Gwynn’s career. There’s his eight batting titles, his 15 All-Star appearances and his 3,141 hits, which are No. 17 all-time. FILE PHOTO Those numbers didn’t happen on for from an ambassador of San Diego accident, as Gwynn is noted as one of the State. first professional baseball players to use A basketball and baseball player while film to analyze his swing. on the Mesa, Gwynn excelled on the He would spend hours before and after games fine-tuning what was one of the smoothest swings in baseball GWYNN WAS EVERYTHING history. YOU COULD HOPE FOR FROM AN But there’s a stat that may just AMBASSADOR OF SAN DIEGO STATE .” trump them all: one. That’s the amount of team’s that hardwood before the baseball diamond. Gwynn played for during his career. To this day, he’s still recognized as one Through thick and thin, and a lot of the top point guards in school history of seasons where the team wasn’t and holds the school’s career assist competing, Gwynn stayed with the
“
Padres. That’s one of the many things that made him so likable. He had every opportunity to go pursue more money with a different team, but routinely took discounts to stay in San Diego. The discounts he took infuriated the MLB Players Association, which wanted players to set precedent with monster contracts, but Gwynn knew he was a fixture in the community and knew the impact he had on the people. Gwynn was a big-time, national player who didn’t act like it. He cared more about local media than he did the national media. His treatment toward The Daily Aztec was unparalleled to most coaches, especially ones of his stature. It was not uncommon for him to give his personal phone number out to Daily Aztec writers so that they could be the first, or one of the first, ones to call him after a road trip. This special issue represents what Gwynn meant to people. One of the special things about his life and legacy is that just about everyone who lived in San Diego during his lifetime had their own individual memory of him. That’s because there was rarely an autograph that went unsigned or a hand that went unshaken. He exemplified what it meant to be a true professional and a leader in the community and is missed every single day.
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TONY GWYNN
MAY 4 - 12, 2016 • THE DAILY AZTEC EDITOR: RYAN POSNER • SPORTS@THEDAILYAZTEC.COM
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#TONYGWYNN
A father’s lessons are never done TONY GWYNN JR. FORMER SDSU OUTFIELDER ____________________________________
FILE PHOTO
Tony Gwynn believed in hard work, doing things right and doing things with a sense of grace. I think he enjoyed coaching because of the personal connections that are made. College is still real life. College is more about family than pro ball. In pro ball there is no sense of a family until you get to the big leagues. Everyone is out there for their own in minor leagues. I have a memory from my childhood. It was at the MLB All-Star Game when he scored the winning run. After the game we were at a round table and I had the opportunity to listen in on the most amazing conversation. It was a table full of the best In the game: (Barry) Bonds, (Barry)
Larkin, (Curt) Schilling and Gwynn. And they were talking to each other about how they approach one-another while they are hitting and pitching. I was 15 or 16 years old. I think he had such a pride in San Diego because of the circumstances on how God played out his plan. He played at SDSU, he was drafted by the Padres and was able to stay in San Diego for his entire career, which is incredible. It is crazy to hear stories about dad after he passed that even I did not know about. I think that exemplifies who he was more than anything. The fact that he did not do things for the publicity. If anything he preferred that it wasn’t known. I am his son and did not know about any of the amazing stories that are told about him that surfaced after he had passed.
#TONYGWYNN
FILE PHOTO
One Aztec for life remembers another MICHAEL CAGE FORMER SDSU FORWARD ___________________________________ When baseball season came along Tony said very humbly, “Hey come check me out.” He said it in a very friendly manner. He told me, “You know what man, you got a chance to be real special here.”
When baseball season came around I read about him in The Daily Aztec so thats when I learned he had some talent in baseball as well. When a freshman starts, usually seniors don’t like it. Tony kept others off of my back long enough so that I could prove to the other seniors that I was worthy.
Tony was an excellent ballhandler, low and compact. We had it set up to where he would get the ball and give me a nice alley-oop. Either he is laughing or he is making you laugh. Our relationship on the court was like a pitcher’s and a catcher’s relationship in baseball. We were on the same page on
the court. A quarterback and wide receiver relationship. He was like a walking scouting report. He amazed me with his knowledge retention, how he analyzed film and knew the opponents tendencies. He had a great feel for the game. He was an Aztec for life just like me. He was proud of SDSU.
10 TONY GWYNN
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MAY 4 - 11, 2016 • THE DAILY AZTEC EDITOR: RYAN POSNER • SPORTS@THEDAILYAZTEC.COM
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TONY GWYNN
MAY 4 - 12, 2016 • THE DAILY AZTEC EDITOR: RYAN POSNER • SPORTS@THEDAILYAZTEC.COM
#TONYGWYNN
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Strasburg remembers first encounter
STEPHEN STRASBURG FORMER SDSU PITCHER ____________________________________
STARTING PITCHER AT SDSU (2007-09) DRAFTED NO. 1 OVERALL BY THE WASHINGTON NATIONALS 2009 MLB DRAFT CURRENTLY PLAYS FOR WASHINGTON NATIONALS
FILE PHOTO
This is speaking to the type of guy he was. This is before I was at State, I was young, like nine or 10 years old, playing for a travel baseball team and Bruce Bochy’s son, Brett, was on the team with me. Bruce took us into Qualcomm to take a tour and when we walked by the underground batting cage we saw Tony Gwynn hitting. He was getting some cage work in, hitting off of the tee, and we are just sitting there star-struck. He saw us kids and proceeded to stop, mid-workout, and say ‘hey you guys coming in here to hit? Come on in I’ll throw BP to you’. He threw BP to us for over an hour. Just all these kids, like nine and 10 years old, and that was the
first time I had met him. I had always been a fan of Tony Gwynn and I’d say it was about my junior year in college and for his birthday, there’s this picture of my mom and I from one of my birthdays. It must’ve been my third or fourth birthday. We were over at a bakery and it was a picture of me with this Tony Gwynn shirt on, Padres hat, Tony Gwynn wristbands with his face on it, and holding a poster up, just a big smile, and my mom gave that to him for his birthday and he kept that on his desk at the baseball field. That was cool because I had always been a huge fan, he was my favorite player. I was number 19 in high school and the whole deal. I just couldn’t hit *laughs.* I could hit a heater, its just when you throw me the other stuff, then I’m done.
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MAY 4 - 12, 2016 • THE DAILY AZTEC EDITOR: RYAN POSNER • SPORTS@THEDAILYAZTEC.COM
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The timeless talent of a legend
PHOTO COURTESY SDSU ATHLETICS MEDIA RELATIONS
JUSTIN GHEORGE FORMER SDSU OUTFIELDER
PLAYED OUTFIELD FOR SDSU IN 2013
We were the first hitting group of the day. We hadn’t hit well the weekend before and coach Gwynn was trying to find a way for us to hit. He wanted us to hit the ball how
we had been taught and trust our instincts. The first hitting group hadn’t executed as we wanted to and it wasn’t a good start to the practice. Coach Gwynn, sitting right outside the cage on his stool. He was frustrated with us, telling us to hit the ball where it’s pitched, go with it, hit it fluidly and don’t think, just do it. We still weren’t getting the concept of going the other way with the ball and coach finally said he’d had enough. “Let me show you how it’s not that hard,” he said. Coach was in his 50s and hadn’t swung a bat out on the field from a live arm throwing to him in years. Cool and calm, he picked up his bat and asked to use my batting gloves. That alone I was ecstatic knowing coach was using my gloves to swing, something every player had wished their idol, a legendary player would do. Sure enough, like vintage Gwynn, he took no practice swings, saw one ball thrown at him before taking the first swing in years and hit the ball right over the shortstop. Perfect line drive. Everyone stood still in awe of coach and just being able to witness something none of us had ever seen so close and so personal.
He proceeded to hit the same spot in the grass on five consecutive swings. The next thing he wanted to show us was how to get inside of the ball and pull it, hit the ball where it’s pitched. It seems so simple yet it’s a difficult sport where failing is normal. But for coach Gwynn, all it took was to see one pitch again and he turned on it. It was a perfect line drive over the second baseman and coach proceeded to walk out of the hitters’ cage. All of us were still in shock of how easy it was to him, how he hadn’t swung in years and here he was putting the ball where he wants. He walked out and said it was that easy if you just trust your hands and your work ethicIt was a memory that not many coaches can teach you, to actually execute what they are explaining to you to prove that it works. It was something extraordinary to see and jokingly he said he might make a comeback and laughed it off to ease the mood. His aura around the field made you want to play the best you can because you wanted to give coach everything you had. He was a soft spoken guy with a contagious laugh that you couldn’t help but realize, baseball is supposed to be fun, enjoy it.
MAY 4 - 12, 2016 • THE DAILY AZTEC EDITOR: RYAN POSNER • SPORTS@THEDAILYAZTEC.COM
TONY GWYNN13
#TONYGWYNN
Unwavering love for his players BRAD HAYNAL FORMER SDSU CATCHER
FILE PHOTO
CATCHER AT SDSU (2011-14) CURRENTLY IN MIAMI MARLINS FARM SYSTEM CLASS-A ADVANCED
I will never forget how much coach Gwynn cared for his players. He loved his baseball family and it showed in so many ways. Every day before practice he would sit in the dugout and wait for guys to come down the tunnel from our clubhouse. That time was not to go over fundamentals, it rarely had relevance to baseball at all. Instead, he would ask you how your family was doing, about school and my favorite, he would ask me how the waves were at the beach. He would make sure to find time every day to simply talk to his players and develop personal relationships with them. The team would meet in the dugout before practice every day, and two things were always said at the end of each meeting before we went to go warm-up: “Does anyone have any questions?” and “Let’s go to work.” Coach Gwynn cared about us, he made sure we respected the game and did things right. We knew he loved us, and we loved him.
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14 TONY GWYNN
MAY 4 - 12, 2016 • THE DAILY AZTEC EDITOR: RYAN POSNER • SPORTS@THEDAILYAZTEC.COM
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Thornton recalls home cooking SPENCER THORNTON SDSU OUTFIELDER
It was always a great experience when coach Gwynn and Alicia would open up their house to the team. His living room almost seemed like it was straight out of Cooperstown, New York (home of the Hall-of-Fame) filled with Silver Sluggers, Gold Gloves and other memorabilia from his career. Once you get over the legendary baseball stuff coach Gwynn’s house has, you get something that is truly legendary: Alicia Gwynn’s cooking. Without a doubt the best ribs, wings, and comfort food cooking I have ever eaten! She makes enough to feed an entire army and we always do our best to eat it all and take as much home for the next three meals. Aside from the food and baseball, what was truly great about going to coach Gwynn’s house was getting to talk to coach about life and things outside of baseball. I learned so much about him as a human being in those moments outside of the baseball player. Not many people get the chance to know a Hall-of-Fame athlete on a personal level.
KATELYN MULCAHY, STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
A lot of the stories he would tell in those moments I have applied in my own life and are the impressions I am grateful that coach Gwynn placed on me.
CURRENT REDSHIRT-SENIOR OUTFIELDER LEADS TEAM WITH FIVE HOME RUNS
#TONYGWYNN
Gwynn’s impact stretches across the ages KEN GERDAU FORMER SDSU TEAMMATE
When Tony first came to campus he was not known as a baseball player. The baseball team did not even know he played baseball, they knew him as a basketball player. He was drafted by the NBA San Diego Clippers in 1981 and still holds SDSU’s all-time assist record. Tony showed up in March after basketball season ended, having
He would get a pitch on the outer-half and Tony would hit it to left, then he would hit an Inside pitch to right. Like clockwork. Tony was “a horrible outfielder,” and those are Tony’s words not mine. Tony called himself “defensively challenged” as well, and because of this he found himself in the designated hitter role frequently early in his Aztec career. When Tony decided that he was going to pursue baseball instead of basketball, he started working
GEDREAU PLAYED BASEBALL WITH GWYNN AT SDSU FROM 1979-80, HIS FIRST TWO YEARS WITH THE PROGRAM.
not picked up a bat for a good seven months, stepped into the batter’s box and raked. Everyone was trying to figure out who this new guy was that just showed up out of nowhere. I do not recall ever getting Tony out while facing him in team intra-squad games.
on his defensive skills. And in only Tony Gwynn fashion, he would turn a weakness into a strength. He won five Gold Glove Awards in the Major Leagues for his above-average defense out in right field.
PHOTO COURTESY SDSU ATHLETICS MEDIA RELATIONS
C.J. SAYLOR SDSU CATCHER There was one time where coach Gwynn had a plastic bag full of sharpies and all of them had his signature on it. I asked coach, “How'd you get that on there?” Then he said laughing, "Boy, cause I'm big-time like that." There is this Lil’ Wayne song that says “Ballin like Tony Gwynn” and I told him I wanted to use that as a walk up and and he said I better not.
I asked why and he said, "You ain't half the player I am,” and then he just busted up laughing. Tony was extremely humble, but he had moments of cockiness on occasion that were just hilarious.
CURRENT REDSHIRTJUNIOR CATCHER
SHOULD I EARN MY MBA
NOW OR LATER? by Jamie M. Ressler, DBA
We are often asked if it’s better to work for a few years before completing an MBA program. And while the answer may be different depending on your unique circumstances, below are some things to consider when determining if now is the right time to get your MBA regardless of your work experience. THE RIGHT TIME IN YOUR LIFE Timing is probably the biggest factor to consider. Although it can be a bit cliché, there truly is no time like the present. Your current life situation may allow you to complete your MBA in only one year, and if that’s the case, then it might be wise to continue your education now. This is especially true if you’re a recent college graduate, since you’re most likely already conditioned for school life (studying for exams, balancing homework with other life responsibilities, etc.). You may benefit from riding that wave of momentum into graduate school; especially since the further out of school you become, the harder it is to go back. Unfortunately, life doesn’t seem to get less complicated, especially as we get older. If you are at a point in your life where you have the time and availability for school, then strongly consider seizing the opportunity to earn your MBA now.
EMPOWERED TO REACH YOUR POTENTIAL
It’s no secret that having an MBA on your resume will often provide opportunities sooner for you than others in the same season of their career without a graduate degree. Your continued work experience coupled with an MBA will only make you a more valuable candidate in the eyes of employers as you progress in your career.
REAL WORLD EXPERIENCE We are sure you’re already aware of the dilemma: employers are looking for young professionals with experience, but how do young professionals acquire experience without being hired in the first place? That’s why the opportunity to obtain realworld experience is so important. Earning your MBA can allow you to develop experience and knowledge in competitive analysis, market research, finance, corporate social responsibility, accounting, business innovation, presenting to senior management, and more.
THE FIELD EXPERIENCE
The Field Experience is a Daytime MBA course that offers actual business experience while you’re earning your MBA.
Earning your MBA earlier in your career can help open doors sooner, allowing opportunities to pursue your purpose in business and beyond.
As part of the course, you’ll participate in a field project with a small group of students, giving you the chance to collaborate with senior management in analyzing and solving a live business problem.
You will still have to put in the time and effort, like everyone does regardless of their education, to move up in your career. However, you’ll have the necessary education to reach your potential quicker, especially if you hope to move into leadership some day.
Unlike an internship, where you risk gaining only a narrow set of practical skills or not having access to senior management, the Field Experience offers you the type of high level and meaningful experience for which employers are looking.
For more information about the Field Experience,you can check out this case study that details a previous DaytimeMBA Field Experience project: pointloma.edu/field-experience
A PROFESSIONAL MENTOR FOR GUIDANCE It can be difficult to navigate your professional career when you’re just starting off out of college. And there’s no denying it–it helps to know people who have gone before you in your field of interest. By earning your MBA now, you can be matched with a mentor from the corporate community who can give you firsthand insight about their industry, as well as help you cultivate your interests, skills, and potential as you decide which direction you want to go in after you graduate. It can be a great gift to have access to the resources, people, and experience that an MBA program offers earlier in life as opposed to later–and to learn from those who have gone before you as you set about pursuing your purpose in the business world. Since many young people are not quite sure what they want to do, exposing them to mentors, both in the form of business professionals and faculty, can help them better pursue their true purpose after they graduate. Do these reasons sound compelling? If so, then the Daytime MBA program might be a great fit for you. The Daytime MBA program is designed for students who have recently completed their undergraduate degree (within 0-3 years). Of course, there are also reasons why the Evening MBA program might be a better fit for you, depending on your professional experience and other factors. If you are unsure, we encourage you to reach out to us to find out. You can contact Kait Vogel to learn more about the Daytime and Evening MBA programs: Email: kaitvogel@pointloma.edu Phone: (619) 563-2856
Jamie M. Ressler, DBA Dr. Ressler is the Associate Dean of Graduate Business Education and teaches the Field Experience course in PLNU’s Daytime MBA program. She has experience working in corporate and nonprofit marketing, public relations, and fundraising. Her research and consulting work has focused on strategic planning, marketing, and innovation.
Earn the business knowledge and experience you need to start achieving your purpose in life. Earn your MBA in only 12 months right out of school in San Diego’s only 1-year Daytime MBA program. >> Gain in-depth knowledge from experienced faculty in several areas of business such as Strategic Management and Entrepreneurship >> Acquire the real-world experience employers are looking for >> Be matched up with a professional mentor to receive guidance and grow a professional network
Visit pointloma.edu/oneyearmba to speak with someone today about whether now is the right time to earn your MBA.
16 TONY GWYNN
MAY 4 - 12, 2016 • THE DAILY AZTEC EDITOR: RYAN POSNER • SPORTS@THEDAILYAZTEC.COM
#TONYGWYNN
A professional on and off the field RYAN DORAN FORMER SDSU PITCHER ____________________________________ Visiting Tony’s home was always a treat. Alicia Gwynn, his wife, made sure that sure that his accomplishments were on display as soon as you walked in the door. In the entry way was an array of memorabilia ranging from all his Silver Slugger Awards to letters from other Hall-of-Famers he received when he was inducted several years ago. In the backyard was a putting green aptly named “Tony’s 19th hole.” The Padres surprised him with this gift when he retired from the game. Visitors were welcomed with open arms with an array of barbequed meat and other delicious sides. It was his place to unwind and is a symbol that proved he was just as dedicated to his family life at home as he was his craft on the ball field With the cancer, he knew he was fighting an uphill battle, however, no one else would ever know the struggle he was going through. He had too much pride to give into the disease. Being on the baseball field with us was his escape from the struggle. On multiple occasions I would walk up to the locker room during practice and find him laying on training room tables, out of sight from our team because he was exhausted from being in the sun. I tried offering water or other help but he would refuse, give some witty remark in his distinct voice and walk down the steps to join in on practice. It was obvious he was fighting a battle none of us could imagine, but being a part of Aztec baseball was his strength to continue to fight with us at his side. I’ll never forget the hordes of fans that would gather outside of our team bus just to get an autograph from him. He never refused an autograph, as long as the fan said “please” and “thank you.” When we were playing in Albuquerque, New Mexico, my junior year, a small girl about 5 years old walked down the stadium steps with a baseball and a pen and held it out to coach Gwynn. He took the baseball, about to sign it, but he asked her, “Do you know who I am?” The girl shook her head, no. Coach then asked, “Then why do you want my autograph?” With no remorse, the girl responded, “It’s not for me, it’s for my dad. He’s standing up there,” as she
pointed to the top of the stadium seats. The look on her dad’s face was priceless A 40 year old man star struck by the Hall-of-Famer and now embarrassed as his young daughter sold him out. Coach handed the baseball back to her and said, “Tell your dad if he wants my autograph he should come get it himself.” Greg Maddux and Randy Johnson were the only two pitchers I remember Tony openly saying he absolutely hated facing. He couldn’t see Randy’s slider. And in combination with his upper 90s fastball and low left-handed arm slot, I can understand why he hated it. Maddux gave Tony trouble because of his excellent change up. He couldn’t visually differentiate between the spin on Maddux’s fastball and his change up. Through his film study, which Gwynn became famous for, he noticed the slightest difference in Maddux’s fingers on his changeup compared to his fastball. To an average person or hitter, that difference is impossible to see especially on a hand moving close to 90 mph. Not for coach Gwynn. His vision at the plate and game preparation was unmatched making him arguably the greatest hitter the game has ever seen. Coach Gywnn taught me how to be a professional in every sense of the word. Being a professional means to do things right ALL the time, not just when you feel like it. He was the epitome of a professional. The attention to detail is what made him arguably the greatest hitter ever. That is how he lived his entire life. He preached that every practice. It involves everything with your life, not just baseball. I learned how to prepare like I played, how to be accountable for everything I did both positive and negative and pay attention to every detail because those details matter if you want to be great. Those values I learned from him carried over to my career with the Arizona Diamondbacks. I can truly say that my success on the field with the Aztecs and my three years with Arizona is owed to his example of professionalism. I am truly honored to say that I was one of the few who got to learn from coach Gwynn as an Aztec ballplayer and carry on his legacy as an alum of San Diego State.
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3/15/16 Lorinda Owens Ad size: 5.125 in. X 4 in. San Diego State
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MAY 4 - 12, 2016 • THE DAILY AZTEC EDITOR: RYAN POSNER • SPORTS@THEDAILYAZTEC.COM
TONY GWYNN17
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Gwynn battled not at 100 percent TYLER ADKISON SDSU OUTFIELDER ____________________________________ We were playing in a weekend series at UNLV, and coach’s health issues were starting to become very visible. He was walking down into the dugout when his feet collapsed from under him and started to fall down the steps until one of my teammates, Brad Haynal, was luckily in the perfect spot to catch him and save his fall. He tried to laugh it off, probably cracked some joke about himself also, but you could tell he was fighting to be able to stay with us on the field every day. Right before the game is going to begin, the players are meeting down the line in left field, like we do prior to every game, to say a pre-game prayer. Before we started our prayer we saw coach slowly walking out to us, with the help of our athletic
We would talk to the bobble-head like it was coach Gwynn and ask it things like, “Am I going to get a hit here coach?” Then we’d shake the bobble-head so coach Gwynn would be nodding back with a “yes.” We’d also give the Gwynn bobblehead knuckles before we went up to bat and made sure there was always a stash of coach’s favorite candy, jelly beans, by its side. I remember we were playing in Reno, Nevada, and I had swung at the first pitch of an at-bat for a few consecutive at-bats and had gotten myself out. I received a phone call from coach Gwynn later that night and he told me “Adkison, if you don’t stop swinging at the first pitch and getting yourself out, I am going to have to crawl out of this hospital bed and come fix it myself,” in a joking tone, but having a constructive message behind it.
I REMEMBER WE WERE PLAYING IN RENO AND I HAD SWUNG AT THE FIRST PITCH OF AN AT-BAT FOR A FEW CONSECUTIVE ATBATS AND GOTTEN MYSELF OUT.
KATELYN MULCAHY, STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
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trainer, from the dugout. We all stood in silence wondering what this is going to entail, and when he finally made it to us he told us to gather up real close. You could tell that he was holding back tears, you could see it in his eyes and hear it in his voice. He went on to inform us that, “Coach can’t be with you guys today, I have to go back to the hotel.” You could tell how much it hurt him to not be able to stay for the game and be with his boys. Little did we know was at that moment, that was the last time he would be able to be on the field as our coach with an Aztec uniform on. We went on to win that game and instead of singing the fight song on the bus like usual, we waited until we got back to the hotel and the whole team walked into coach Gwynn’s room and sang it to him. He had the biggest smile on his face and was pumping his fists with joy the whole time. Coach had to be checked into the hospital to be regularly monitored, but that did not stop him from watching all of our games. He wasn’t in the dugout with us, but we could feel his presence, and we dug up a Tony Gwynn bobble-head from an old giveaway night and kept him in the dugout with us.
You could always count on coach being straight-forward with you. I remember this like it was yesterday, it was my freshman year and I had just hit a walk off-single against Purdue University, and we are all in the locker room enjoying the victory. The locker room quiets down as coach enters to conduct the post-game meeting, and he turns to me. I’m thinking that he’s going to say something along the lines of “good job,” but he starts telling me how I shouldn’t have rolled that pitch over, that I needed to, “back that thing up and hit it the other way.” It caught everyone offguard, but moments like that would really exemplify how coach Gwynn always let you know exactly what was on his mind, and that he wanted us to do things right and cared for us. He was very observant at practice and it seemed like he saw everything. He could be across the field, but if you didn’t transfer the ball to your glove properly from the outfield he’d somehow see it. He had an uncanny ability to see what pitch a pitcher was throwing as he was releasing the ball. He could be sitting on his chair in the dugout and call out pitches as they were being thrown in games.
18 SENIOR FAREWELLS
MAY 4 - 12, 2016 • THE DAILY AZTEC EDITOR: JAMIE BALLARD • NEWS@THEDAILYAZTEC.COM
#DOMINANTCOALITION
DAILY AZTEC CLASS OF ‘16 KELLY HILLOCK EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
_____________________________________ Most days, it feels like the only peace I
can get is walking home from The Daily Aztec newsroom, headphones in, and taking deep breaths of the scents of jasmine and peach trumpet flowers. Here is usually where I remind myself why I have been running around for the past 12 hours with a never-ending to-do list and drinking too much coffee. It’s because every day, I had the honor of working with incredibly smart, talented and dedicated students. It’s because I had the honor of cultivating the stories that best represent and illuminate the diverse, inspiring student body on this campus. It has been an honor to serve the SDSU community as the editor in chief for this
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103-year-old news organization. It has been the most challenging, but also the most rewarding experience of my college career. The Daily Aztec has been very much engrained in my life at SDSU. The basement of the Education and Business Administration building (also fondly referred to as the dungeon) has been my home. These past four years would have not been possible without The Daily Aztec, but these people in particular: Ethan Bailey and Lauren Yap, for being my first editors. Leo Castaneda, for giving me my first real shot. Monica Linzmeier and Madison Hopkins, for being the best DA parents. My mom, for being the first eyes on every article I wrote and being my biggest support. Natalie Mason, for sharing with me the peaks and valleys of student leadership. My staff, for joining me on this crazy journey and always exceeding my expectations — and special shoutout to Hannah Lingle-Veale and Kaylee Andrews, for jumping in headfirst when I said I wanted to produce a magazine. I
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ANNALISE DEWHURST DIGITAL CONTENT EDITOR ____________________________________ From staff writer to videographer, I found my home at The Daily Aztec as the Digital Content Editor. I couldn’t have predicted what this experience would be like — mainly because this position was almost brand new — but I’ve enjoyed every second of it. I wasn’t leading a group of staff writers, and I didn’t write articles regularly like my fellow editors, but I loved my position because it was unique. My job was to share our incredible paper with more online readers than ever before. I’ve been the voice behind The Daily Aztec’s social media accounts for the past nine months. I read each wonderful article produced by our staff and shared them with pride.
KALIE CHRISTENSEN, STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
honestly would not be here without any of you. We had a lot to live up to this year and a lot was at stake. The Daily Aztec continued to face financial struggles this year and will continue to struggle to reinvent itself without a permanent solution. We have cut our staff, cut our working hours, cut our print publications and relied on support from alumni and the university just to uphold our mission of producing news for our community. I am most proud of continuing The Daily Aztec’s legacy in the face of our adversities. Journalism is at the crux of our democracy, and the SDSU community needs storytellers who can continue to shine the light in the face of uncertainty. I look forward to watching the ways the DA continues to do just that. To Jacob Sisneros and his team, I know our news organization is in safe hands under your leadership and vision. Hold on tight — it goes by way too fast. It’s bittersweet to leave this chapter of my life, but I know the things I learned these past four years will stay with me and carry me through the next chapter of my life. Thanks for everything, SDSU. I immersed myself in the ever-evolving world of social media and strived to improve our social presence. I made incredible friendships and learned so much from my talented peers. Most importantly, I gave our followers a look at the magic produced in the EBA basement. I couldn’t have asked for a better experience at The Daily Aztec, and at San Diego State University as a whole, and I have many people to thank for that. Thank you to our Editor in Chief, Kelly Hillock, for believing in the goals I set for our social media accounts and for helping me surpass each one. You’ve been a great leader and you helped me build a solid social media foundation for The Daily Aztec. A special thank you to my parents and my brothers for being the best role models, friends and supporters. You’ve all encouraged me to chase my dreams, and you’ve shown me that you can make it through anything with the support of your family. Joey, thank you for your constant love and support, for your patience and most importantly for the laughs. It’s hard to believe my time here passed by so quickly. Now it’s time for the next adventure. Thank you to The Daily Aztec for such an unforgettable experience. I will always cherish these wonderful memories.
MAY 4 - 12, 2016 • THE DAILY AZTEC EDITOR: JAMIE BALLARD • NEWS@THEDAILYAZTEC.COM
MATTHEW BAIN MANAGING EDITOR
____________________________________ My four years with The Daily Aztec have been all about the people, the life-changing friends I met growing up together in the hustle and bustle of our living room — I mean, our newsroom. We became friends through common experiences, all the peaks and gutwrenching valleys of life as a reporter — let alone the highs and lows of our actual lives (which we had very little of — thus the valleys). Yes, the basement of the Education and Business Administration building
JOSEPH CIOLINO OPINION EDITOR
RYAN POSNER SPORTS EDITOR _____________________________________ The Daily Aztec may just seem like the piles of paper that fill up the red bins around campus, or what The Show uses as confetti in pregame rituals. If only people knew everything that went on behind the scenes to make the paper. I got the chance to serve as the assistant sports editor in the fall and as the sports editor in spring, and not only learned so many new things about sports and journalism, but what this school has to offer. At a school with as many students at SDSU, it’s easy to slip through the cracks and have trouble finding ways to get involved. Never in my four years at SDSU did I feel more connected than when I made my way down to the basement of EBA, swiped my Red ID card and got to work. The Daily Aztec newsroom does not look like anything special to the naked eye. There’s not a lot of cell phone service, sometimes the air condition doesn’t work and our appliances may not be top-notch. But for some reason whenever I had a minute of free time, I’d find myself in the newsroom, whether I had work to do or not.
SENIOR FAREWELLS 19
is a dungeon, but it’s our dungeon/ newsroom/office thing. Every week I’d dance down the stairs to the basement and smile at peers noticing for the first time there’s actually a door in the basement hallway. Then, once inside, I’d take at least a few seconds to stand there and listen. Fingers hurriedly thwacking away at keyboards, the slow dribble of an almost-empty water tank filling someone’s coffee mug, the piercingly glorious laugh of sports editor Ryan Posner. I’m going to miss that sound. I know I’ll hear that uniquely “newsroom” sound at jobs in the future, but there’s something special about your first newsroom, and there’s definitely something special about sharing it with people you literally grew up with. I’m going to stop being sappy now. Abrupt, yes. Necessary? Also yes, because it’s time for shout-outs. First, a monumental shout-out to my family: Mom, Dad and Andrew. Remember in high school when I wanted to be an astrophysicist? Yeah, I’m laughing too.
I just want to thank you for always being my support system. There was a lot of doubt involved in what I’ve been doing these past four years, and you managed to erase all of it. A special shout-out to my SDSU mothers, Lanie Lockwood and Nicole Vargas. You two have groomed me into what I hope is a talented journalist and I can’t wait to take you out to lunch next week and come see you in the future. Major shouts go out to my second family: my roommates Rebekah, Malcolm and Daniel. It’s rare to stick together for three years in a college apartment and love each other more and more every year, but we did it. Of course a shout-out to my sports journalism mates, especially Ryan Posner and Patrick Carr (who graduated in the fall). We pushed each other, supported each other and laughed with each other on our way to getting great gigs fresh out of college. Love you guys. I can’t forget all the wonderful editors who taught me along the way. Thanks to my former Daily Aztec
sports editors, Adriana Bush and Kristian Ibarra. To Ed Guzman up in Seattle and Jess Kearney at The San Diego Union-Tribune for the opportunities. To my current editor at the Orange County Register who I absolutely love writing for, Brian Patterson, along with Todd Harmonson, who brought me on at the Register. A huge shout-out to my editors from The Atlanta Journal-Constitution — Ray Cox, Thomas Stinson and David Wellham — and David O’Brien, the beat writer I worked with while covering the Braves. Guys, I learned more in my 10 weeks with you than I could even fathom. I still can’t fathom it. Now to Jamie Ballard. You’ll make an incredible managing editor next year and I wish you all the best this summer in Dallas. Jacob Sisneros, they couldn’t have found a better editor in chief than you. Push sports hard, man. I have to stop writing now, but it’s so hard to stop. As long as I keep writing here in my office, I don’t have to say bye to my friends.
I wasn’t with The Daily Aztec for very long. I started back in October as the assistant opinion editor and was immediately promoted to opinion editor, which was awesome! The section is still under construction and I am turning it over to someone who is competent and will continue my quest of making the section strong. Plus, he has a beard and loves beer. Go
get ‘em, Andrew. Shout-out to all my awesome writers that really showed their teeth while writing pieces for the section. Keep going. Opinion is about “throwing weight around”, in the words of Jay Harn aka Jayseph, and you writers have done a spectacular job doing so. Kelly Hillock and Matt Bain, thanks for
giving me a shot. It was a privilege working for two outstanding leaders and I can’t wait to see what you do in the future. I met some fantastic people working here. I wish I would’ve joined in the fun earlier on, but I am grateful for the opportunity and experience that I had. All the best.
I didn’t know many people on staff before joining the editorial board, but within a couple weeks I would walk into the newsroom and was genuinely excited to see whoever was there and spark up a conversation. I would look forward to our weekly meetings Tuesday mornings because all of the editorial staff was there and it felt more like a family reunion than anything else. For people who don’t know, the landscape of journalism is changing by the minute. As a staff, we were tasked with helping to push this newspaper that is over 100 years old into a digital age where online content is just as, or more, important than the actual paper. Not only did we accomplish our goal, we knocked it out of the park. As a team, we dealt with problems that most Daily Aztec staffs never had to deal with, like the website crashing just as I’m about to press publish for a men’s basketball game story. There’s not a group of people that I would have rather faced those issues with than the editorial staff here. Even in our most stressful moments, we were able to persevere and find solutions as a team. Joining the staff as a senior, I thought that the friends I had already made would be the ones I’d most closely tie my college experience to. I was wrong. The memories I’ve made as a staff writer and editor at The Daily Aztec are ones that I will cherish for the rest of my life. I got my first chance to sit in a press box, covered my first bowl game and covered the NIT. But besides all of that, I gained a second family to go through this experience that we call college. Shout out to Matt and Kelly for hiring me and to Patrick for showing me the way last semester.
20 SENIOR FAREWELLS that defined my college years. 2010: “BOYFRIEND” BY BEST COAST What better song to start my freshman year of college than Best Coast’s “Boyfriend”? Bethany Cosentino’s guitar riff kicked open a new chapter in my life with gusto. It was the theme song during my time at summer school for a remedial writing course — the irony — and it has stuck around in my playlist since.
RYO MIYAUCHI A&L EDITOR
_____________________________________ This took a while — six years to be exact. Despite all the stress, I had such a great time here. And I listened to so much music to get me through it. So I thought it’d be best to say farewell by talking a bit about the songs
ALEK SANCHEZ SENIOR STAFF WRITER _____________________________________ It’s funny how things work out in these four short years. I’ve changed my major, made new friends, watched the Student Union finally finish being built, and even got a new car. But throughout my time here at SDSU, one thing has
SARAH SMITH ASSISTANT PHOTO EDITOR _____________________________________ I put in my application to be a volunteer photographer with The Daily Aztec over winter break of my sophomore year and originally, I wasn’t sure if I would be chosen. I never expected that The Daily Aztec would become such a large part of my college experience. Once I was chosen to be a staff photographer, my journey started. I received my first photo assignment to photograph the Calpulli Center on campus and from there my assignments ranged from Calpulli to baseball games, soccer games, and more. I even got a pass to stand on the sidelines and photograph football.
2011: “LIMIT TO YOUR LOVE” BY JAMES BLAKE I spent the first year of college without a car, which meant almost two hours of my afternoon was spent on the trolley commuting home. I made the best of it by listening to countless albums, and one I vividly remember is James Blake’s self-titled debut. The record came out in the rainy season of February, and Blake’s sparse piano-led soul synced perfectly with the grey clouds.
MAY 4 - 12, 2016 • THE DAILY AZTEC EDITOR: JAMIE BALLARD • NEWS@THEDAILYAZTEC.COM
HEAVEN BUILT” BY JAPANDROIDS I’m not going to get into much detail, but I hit both my highest and lowest points in 2012. An emotional roller coaster of a track, “The House That Heaven Built” and Brian King’s life-or-death screams capped off a wild ride. Shouting along to King’s lyric — “if they try to slow you down, tell them all to go to hell” — during night drives was a necessity. 2013: “STILL INTO YOU” BY PARAMORE Guess what? Things do get better. I started writing more, meeting new people and figuring out where I wanted to be. Paramore also had a wonderful year with their successful self-titled album getting them out of their dark past. The band couldn’t release their beating-theodds single “Still Into You” at a more perfect time.
Like Makonnen, I went about life on an entirely different pace in 2014 than my friends. The Atlanta rapper partied solo on a weekday. I struggled to get ahead in life while my friends peaced out of college. But if the party anthem taught me anything, people get things done at their own pace and there’s nothing wrong with that. 2015: “RUN AWAY WITH ME” BY CARLY RAE JEPSEN There’s no looking back whenever “Run Away with Me” comes on. That saxophone riff put the bad year behind me for good, and it provided me with a soundtrack to a time that brought nothing but pure joy, good times and wonderful company.
2012: “THE HOUSE THAT
2014: “TUESDAY” BY ILOVEMAKONNEN FEATURING DRAKE
2016: “WORK” BY RIHANNA FEATURING DRAKE I’m tired. I had the busiest semester I’ve ever had during my six years of college. I still don’t feel prepared for my life since I started. Oh well. The workload is off my shoulders, if only for a little bit. It’s finally over, and I’m glad.
always been constant: writing for the Daily Aztec. I feel like I’ve covered it all since my time as a freshman. I have gone from covering video game releases, to movie premieres and sold-out concerts, to school clubs profiles and my favorite foodie spots. Writing with the Daily Aztec proved to be one of the most cathartic escapes I had when the hellfire of midterms and projects would rain down upon me. It’s an indescribable feeling: looking back at something you’ve created, that never existed before this moment in time, and seeing your name attached to it. It’s something you can call yours. I was blessed to have the opportunity to go out and experience new things, and share them with an audience of my peers, and I am forever thankful for that. Whether it was creating it, sharing it, or embracing it, music has always been
a huge part of my life. The love for music came first, and the writing naturally followed. These moments came to define my college career. Who else can say that they were able to see Drake perform at Viejas...for work?! That was probably my favorite piece, and boy did it make for a hell of a cover story. It’s up there and tied for “My favorite moment”, with this piece where I got to play photographer for the night and take some photos for the Arctic Monkeys’ return to San Diego. Standing literally inches away from Arctic Monkeys frontman, Alex Turner, I was up close and personal with one of the last true rock stars from this generation. During my sophomore and junior years, I found my place covering all the biggest shows and concerts that San Diego were blessed to have (Shoutout to doing Weekend Picks with Ryo).
Electronic music was blowing up to mainstream levels, and I was lucky enough to have a voice to comment on it. Although Entertainment no longer exists, I am happy to have found a home in Arts and Lifestyle. SDSU is bursting with creative and passionate individuals who go above and beyond what they are asked to do, and I have been extremely lucky to share my experiences from meeting these students and faculty. It’s crazy to think that this will be last byline ever. If I could pass one thing on to whoever gets to read this, it would be to have fun! Go out and find what makes you happy, and stick with it as long as you can. Take an ENS class, join a club, or even treat yourself out to a nice meal. Whatever it is, go for it and don’t regret it, you never know where it can take you.
My first semester as a staff photographer I was honored by my photo editor at the time, Monica Linzmeier, who gave me the Most Dedicated Photographer award at the end-of-semester banquet. After winning this award I was filled with happiness and eager to prove that I would continue my dedication with this paper. Even though I was thrilled with the recognition, I never thought that I could hold the position of photo editor that Monica held, because I never thought that I could follow in her footsteps and do as amazing a job as she did. Fast-forward two years, and I was chosen as the Assistant Photo Editor and now I share in all of the responsibilities of the Photo Editor. Even though I am not the “head honcho” of the photo section, I never thought that I would come this far within this organization. Since having my position with The Daily Aztec, I have enjoyed the time that I have gotten to spend in the office with all of my new friends. I am sad that my time at The Daily Aztec is coming to an end, but I am truly grateful for all of the experiences that this paper has given me. Upon my departure, I look forward to following all of the successes of the new photo editor, Kelly Smiley, and of The Daily Aztec as a whole.
BRANDON TRUFFA SENIOR STAFF WRITER _____________________________________ I could write an entire page’s worth about how thankful I am to have written for The Daily Aztec during my time here at SDSU. Writing for this paper was the best decision I made in my five years on this campus, and I wish I would’ve joined sooner, rather than later. But, I don’t want to take up too many words with clichés summarizing all of the amazing memories I’ve made here, so I’ll just keep this short and sweet, and get straight to the people I would like to thank. To the players, coaches, and SIDs I’ve worked with the past few years. Thank you all for being so cooperative, and giving me great insights and quotes for
my articles. I enjoyed writing your stories, and they wouldn’t have been made possible without your help. To Mr. Bruce T. Halle and my grandparents: Thank you for providing me with the financial support to pursue, and gain, a higher education. Your generosity has given me the tools, and paved the way to have a wonderful future. To Rady Children’s Hospital: Thank you for literally saving my life when I was born. I can’t repay, or thank you enough. To my fellow DA sports staff (past and present) including, but not limited to Max, Ryan, Anthony, Pat, Kris, Brendan, Kristian, Jacob, Matt, Zach, and Mayer: Thank you all for sharing the same passion for sports as I do. I’ll cherish the conversations, debates, and inside jokes we’ve made over the years. To Daniel Galuppo: Thank you for putting up with me and Max’s personalities, and sports talk, even though you had no idea what we were talking about 90 percent of the time. Also, thank you for your dedication to making our videos far superior to News’. Finally, to mom, dad, sister, and all of my family: Thank you for reading my stories, and being there for me to get through this thing called life (R.I.P. Prince). I love each and every one of you, and although I’m terrified of what the future may hold, I’m okay because I know you will continue to be my rock.
MAY 4 - 12, 2016 • THE DAILY AZTEC EDITOR: JAMIE BALLARD • NEWS@THEDAILYAZTEC.COM
MAXIM GARSHMAN SENIOR STAFF WRITER
SENIOR FAREWELLS21
When I first came to SDSU, I had no intention of ever joining the school newspaper. I never had a passion for writing, only a passion for sports. But my junior year, Matthew Bain convinced me to join the paper and my college experience was forever changed. I met some of my best friends here at college because of that very move. There is so much to be grateful for over these past few years, but few can compare to my time with The Daily Aztec. Brandon Truffa and I were also given the opportunity to carry on The
Daily Aztec Sports Talk, which thanks to Daniel Galuppo turned out to be a fantastic video segment. I would like to thank Patrick Carr for pushing me to new heights, Kris Keehl for his understanding and wisdom and Ryan Posner for just being himself. I understand that graduating is just the beginning of life, but my roots will forever be implemented with this paper and with this school. I want to encourage others in their time here at SDSU to find a way to express their voice in whatever platform that may be. College is one of the few times in
life where you should be selfish. You should do what you want. It is the time to focus on making you the best person you can be. It is the time to find yourself. It is the time to find out who you truly want to be. It’s a precious gift not many get to have so, use it as such. When they call your name and you walk across that stage to get your diploma, make sure you experienced all that you wanted here. And whatever you do, look back to your college days and say, “I wouldn’t have changed a thing.”
CONGRATULATIONS TO THE CLASS OF 2016. FROM THE DAILY AZTEC SENIORS
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CROSSWORDS
ACROSS 1 Sleep lab study 6 Dalí works, por ejemplo 10 Drug cop 14 Some storytellers 15 Midday 16 Chevy hatchback 17 New York City park that hosted two world’s fairs 20 Current fashion 21 Put on any old way 22 Permissible 23 Ordinal suffix 24 First-rate 25 Albania’s capital 26 Dry out, so to speak 28 Fall behind 29 Periodontist’s
deg. 30 “How Deep Is Your Love” group 34 Wks. and wks. 35 Rice cultivation lands 37 Prefix with life or wife 38 Star in Scorpius 39 Voice legend Blanc 40 U-verse provider 41 “Not just a scooter, a way of life” brand 45 Kind of surprise kick 47 Popular berry 50 Trawler’s catch 51 Present moment 52 Farm implement 53 Coil in a garden 54 More exciting circumstances
JUN 19
CLASSIFIEDS
57 Tan tone 58 Scale for rock hounds 59 Alaskan native 60 Filing tool 61 Petty fight 62 Señorita’s parent DOWN 1 Valet at Wayne Manor 2 Hand-washer of the Gospels 3 All for __: in vain 4 Celtic language 5 Volcanic cloud that can disrupt flights 6 1997-2006 U.N. leader 7 Disobedient way to go 8 Mummy’s resting place
9 Yakima-toSpokane dir. 10 Low point 11 Guacamole ingredients 12 Goes back a scene or two 13 Bob of “Football Night in America” 18 Words before a kiss 19 Sacha Baron Cohen alter ego 24 Shown the office door 25 Stun gun brand 27 Bk. after Amos 28 Daughter of Darth 31 Bit of online courtship 32 Ibsen’s “Peer __” 33 Young newt 34 Inventory: Abbr. 35 Tapered beer glasses 36 Big name in jeans 37 One of Las Islas Baleares 39 Fish tail? 40 Yemen coastal city 42 Made a point 43 One with affectations 44 Carol opener 46 Acquire a winter coat? 47 Omega’s opposite 48 Move effortlessly 49 Cribside chorus 52 Pocket watch, to a hypnotist 53 Luau dance 55 Ambulance letters 56 Edinburgh bonnet
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Help Wanted (cont.) Responsibilities will primarily include: - Day-to-Day management of social channels - Proactively seeking out timely engagement opportunities and making recommendations to the team on our involvement - Executing on our advertising posting across relevant platforms (primarily Facebook, Instagram and Twitter) - Working with internal experts to ensure the content we’re disseminating is accurate - Creating both qualitative and quantitative reports on our engagement Required skills/qualifications: - A minimum of 2 years of social media and communications experience - Proficiency with both social platforms including: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Tumblr, YouTube, Google+, Pinterest, Snapchat and Hootsuite - Experience running native social ads - Success with managing and performing projects in a multi-tasking environment - Experience with tight deadlines - Update reporting spreadsheets and analyze results on a weekly and monthly basis - Work with members of the marketing team to determine priority content features - Demonstrated superior verbal and written skills - Inter-personal communication skills - Proven ability to work both independently and as part of a team Local candidates only: - San Diego, CA Please send resumes to FMIincorporated@gmail.com
24THE BACK PAGE
MAY 4 - 12, 2016 • THE DAILY AZTEC EDITOR: RYO MIYAUCHI • FEATURES@THEDAILYAZTEC.COM
#THE1975
Best album of 2016 goes to 1975 RYO MIYAUCHI A&L EDITOR ____________________________________ ut of the many albums released so far in 2016, no album fascinates me more than The 1975’s “I Like It When You Sleep, for You Are So Beautiful yet So Unaware of It.” I have yet to fully wrap my head around the music, but for now I can confidently call it my choice for album of the year. It’s far from the perfect album. It’s not even an objectively ideal record to name the best of the year, at least upon first listen. The biggest flaw of “I Like It…” is its glut. The 1975 is indulgent almost to the point of excess. The album already tries a listener’s attention span with its 17-song length, and its instrumental intermissions make the record feel longer. "I Like It…” is instead a hot mess of a record, but it’s only a reflection of its chief songwriter, frontman Matty Healy. Inside his collection of flashy dancepop, Healy opens himself to the most raw, intense and personal emotions. One feeling I’m currently obsessed with from “I Like It...” is the feeling of distance between two people. I’m talking more spiritual than physical, though the latter quality still plays an important role. The album title defines the exact amount of distance between Healy and a woman: they’re close enough to look into each other’s eyes, yet they can’t read too deep into what’s so fascinating about them. They’re beautiful to the eye, but is there anything underneath the surface? "A Change of Heart” follows how such a question can yield different answers
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as time goes on and as people drift apart. The song can be explained in this pair of Healy’s lyrics: “You used to have a face straight out of a magazine, now you look just like anyone.” The two adored each other so much, but they now look at each other so blandly and with disgust, with nothing redeemable in their gaze. Seeing nothing but emptiness in someone’s eyes also gives me the chills in “She’s American.” The relationship between Healy and his American fling is casual and shallow, almost to a hilarious degree: “If she says I got to fix my teeth, she’s so American.” Though he sells it as an electric experience that changes the whole
#DASNAPSHOTS
outlook of a city, he eventually realizes it’s built upon a weak foundation with not much common ground. "She’s American” is especially terrifying when I come to terms with the idea that Healy reveals one cold truth of human relationships underneath such an upbeat slice of dance-pop. A similar point can be made about the album’s lead singles, “UGH!” and “The Sound.” The piano-led beat of the latter pumps up a crowd, and the giddy riff of the former gets some dancing feet moving. But “UGH!” shows Healy’s ugly, selfobsessed reflection, which may or may not be affected by drug addiction. He yaps his mouth enough to completely tune out the other person. "This conversation’s not about reciprocation no more,” he remarks. He goes off again in “The Sound,” admitting to loving himself more than
he does his former partner. "It’s not about reciprocation, it’s just all about me,” he quips. It’s true: “I Like It…” is all about Healy. However, the album doesn’t focus on how lovely Healy is despite the narcissism. It’s about how crude his heart has become, and no one critiques Healy harsher than himself. The vulnerable moments of “I Like It…” are the most emotionally crushing. He’s naturally stubborn in “Somebody Else,” yet it reveals so much of his pain when his attempts to be sincere bleed into his pettiness. "I don’t want your body, but I hate to think about you with somebody else,” he sings. “Our love has gone cold. You’re intertwining your soul with somebody else.” And there’s “If I Believe You,” the moment Healy hits rock bottom. He pleads for comfort from another person like he’s pleading for salvation. For a taste, here’s his confession and also my favorite lyric of 2016: “I’m petrified of being alone. It’s pathetic, I know.” With all this talk about love and relationships, it begs the question: Is "I Like It…" romantic? Sure, if you consider a strictly physical relationship as romantic. There’s nothing to suggest Healy’s relationships are supposed to be emotionally deep. I think he meant it that way too. But it’s impressive, and often affecting, to me how much heartbreak and complicated issues come up from a supposedly shallow love. Healy also surprises himself with how much the experience mattered. He thinks he’s above it all. He assumes he can cope with his emptiness with more sex, drugs and one-sided conversation, but his misunderstanding is his biggest downfall.
THE CHICAGO SKYLINE
Senior staff writer Christine Whitman captured this photo on her spring break trip to Chicago.
PLEASE NOTE: The Daily Aztec does not endorse or support and has no affiliation with the products or services offered in the Classifieds section. To place an ad in the Classifieds section, please visit thedailyaztec.com/classifieds ______________________________ The views expressed in this issue do not necessarily reflect those of The Daily Aztec. Comments? Email us at letters@thedailyaztec.com