weekly PRINT EDITION
wednesDAY, AUGUST 19 – tuesDAY, AUGUST 25, 2015 volume 102, Issue 2
SAN DIEGO STATE UNIVERSITY’S INDEPENDENT STUDENT NEWS SOURCE SINCE 1913
W W W . T H E D A I LYA Z T E C . C O M
SHOW US YOUR FAVORITE MOMENT FROM YOUR #FIRSTWEEKATSTATE ON INSTAGRAM Take a picture describing your first week at State, post it on Instagram and tag @thedailyaztec for a chance to win a prize.
ON THE INSIDE...
fast facts P6 • campus secrets P11 • concerts P12 • fun classes P13 • meet a.s. leaders P14 COVER DESIGN BY KAYLEE ANDREWS & HANNAH LINGLE-VEALE COVER PHOTO BY MEGAN WOOD
2 NEWS
AUG. 19 - 25, 2015 • THE DAILY AZTEC EDITOR: QUINN OWEN • NEWS@THEDAILYAZTEC.COM
#CSUPAY
CSU presidents get a pay raise The July pay boost came the day before salary negotiations for all CSU faculty stopped. JAMIE BALLARD STAFF WRITER ____________________________________ Salary negotiations between California State University management and the California Faculty Association came to a halt in late July. On July 21, CSU trustees approved raises for all 23 university presidents, including San Diego State President Elliot Hirshman. Hirshman, who received a salary increase last fall that brought him to $412,000, is now in line to receive an additional $8,240 annually. His new salary would be $420,240, maintaining his status as the highest-paid CSU president. The July 20-21 agenda for the CSU Board of Trustees indicates a proposed 2-percent raise for all CSU campus presidents, with an average increase of $7,000. On July 22, the California Faculty Association met with CSU management to continue negotiating faculty salaries. The CFA is asking for a 5-percent general salary increase, and a 2.65-percent service salary increase for eligible faculty.
A post on the CFA’s website regarding the meeting says: “Despite CFA’s willingness to negotiate and presenting management with data and stories of faculty hardships, virtually the first word from CSU management was ‘no’ to our proposal of a 5% General Salary Increase and a Service Salary Increase to eligible faculty. Both sides agreed that we are at impasse.” The CSU Labor Relations department also issued a statement explaining how they have made faculty wages a priority concern: “We have demonstrated our commitment to working on compensation issues by investing a significant percentage of all new state funding in our employees.” The CSU has spent $129.6 million in compensation over the past two years. Just more than half of that has gone to faculty. Since 2004, the average pay for CSU presidents has increased by 44 percent. The average pay for faculty increased by 8 percent over the same period. CSU Public Affairs Communications Specialist Stephanie Thara said CSU executives are paid below the standard
compensation levels of other public university administrators. “Executive compensation accounts for less than 1 percent,” she said. “In fact, during the recession years, February 2008 and July 2013, faculty were the only employee group to
at SDSU, she’s seen a structural shift where students are being treated as consumers. “The university sees students as consumers, who they want to keep happy, and so the rigor of the education that you receive has been watered down
“
THE UNIVERSITY SEES STUDENTS AS CONSUMERS, WHO THEY WANT TO KEEP HAPPY”
- Doreen Mattingly, Associate Professor of Women’s Studies
receive general salary increases.” For some faculty, an SDSU salary is not enough to get by. Associate Professor of Women’s Studies and CFA member Doreen Mattingly said many faculty take on other jobs, such as lecturing at other schools or working as consultants. “For some, to make ends meet, it means running between multiple campuses, teaching an enormously heavy load,” she said. “And then the students suffer.” Mattingly said that in her 20 years
dramatically.” She continued, “Course size has doubled in the time I’ve been here. You can’t give the same experience to a class of 80 people as you can to 40 people. There’s just no way.” Mattingly said she feels disrespected and frustrated by the low salaries provided by the CSU schools. She said a pay raise would help increase morale among her colleagues. Talks between CSU and CFA to resolve disputed wages will resume Aug. 31.
#MYTOPCOLLEGE
SDSU ranks 5th in Forbes pride contest MY TOP COLLEGE RESULTS 1. CAL STATE FULLERTON 2. FRANCISCAN UNIVERSITY OF STEUBENVILLE 3. OUACHITA BAPTIST UNIVERSITY 4. UNIVERSITY OF CENTRAL OKLAHOMA 5. SAN DIEGO STATE COLLEEN LARSON STAFF WRITER ____________________________________
Students and alumni took to social media during the Forbes contest to highlight the beauty of campus. Megan Wood, Photo Editor
San Diego State placed fifth in the national “MyTopCollege” competition hosted by Forbes magazine this summer. The campaign required students, faculty and alumni to showcase why they believe their school is the best in the nation. Through social media platforms such as Twitter and Instagram, students and alumni tagged their posts and pictures with the hashtag #MyTopCollege. Participants from SDSU sent in a variety of posts and pictures to show off the school and explain why the home of the Aztecs is the best school around. “We considered both the quantity and quality of submissions this year, which made it all the more challenging to come up with our winners,” wrote Forbes’ staff member, Jill Castellano, in a recent article regarding the outcome of the campaign. While Cal State Fullerton placed first in the large-school division, the SDSU community still had a strong presence throughout the duration of the campaign. Some posts focused on the beauty of the SDSU campus and San Diego weather. Others highlighted the learning and networking opportunities provided by the university. Some were just a classic shout-out for Aztec pride.
The SDSU community had a high participation rate in the first “MyTopCollege” contest last year, as well. One Forbes’ article from June 2014 was titled “New #MyTopCollege Social Media Campaign Launches, San Diego State Off To Head Start.” Forbes’ staff writer and author of the article, Paige Carlotti, said the SDSU community responded resoundingly to the social media engagement campaign. “The San Diego State University community wasted no time Instagramming and tweeting their photos of athletic teams, gorgeous views and even pets to prove why SDSU is a top college,” Carlotti wrote. “Aztec teams rose to the challenge and boasted statistics that their particularly proud of. SDSU had everyone from the marching band to athletic teams to the students themselves blow up the twitter feed.” SDSU got second place overall in the #MyTopCollege campaign in 2014. Dr. Randall Timm, Dean of Students at SDSU, said he believes social media has become a great tool for enhancing communication within the SDSU community and keeping students engaged and informed. He said students are now able to use social media as a way to find out about the unique groups, clubs and activities that are happening at SDSU. This enables students to become engaged and active on campus.
SPORTS 3
AUG. 19 - 25, 2015 • THE DAILY AZTEC EDITOR: PATRICK CARR • SPORTS@THEDAILYAZTEC.COM
#AZTECFB
Baseball experience helps Lomax
Redshirt-sophomore Trey Lomax (No. 14) is listed as one of the starting safeties for SDSU football. MEGHAN MCCARRON, STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
PATRICK CARR SPORTS EDITOR ____________________________________ Imagine being a baseball outfielder. Now imagine a baseball being thrown at 94 miles per hour, the batter hitting the ball less than a second after it was pitched and the outfielder having the reflexes to hear the ball, see it, run to it and catch it with ease. That describes Trey Lomax, a redshirt sophomore football player at San Diego State who covers more ground than anyone in the outfield. Except football is his primary sport now. The former baseball outfielder and pitcher is projected to start at one of the Warrior safety spots for SDSU this season, after a breakout year in which he started all but one game. But it was baseball that also helped Lomax become the fast, smart and hardhitting safety that he is today. “My first step is pretty quick and reading the ball off the bat is a lot similar to being a deep safety and seeing the ball out of (the quarterback’s) hand and knowing how to track it,” Lomax said. Reaction, timing and hand-eye coordination are key elements in football. They might not be as important as they are in baseball, but for a safety covering a portion of the field, every step helps if he has to run 40 yards in one direction. Lomax’s baseball background helps in another way. He has become a better all-around athlete, which according to SDSU safeties coach Danny Gonzales, is a good thing. “Sometimes when you do one thing you become a robot,” Gonzales said. A common phrase around the gridiron
is “football instincts,” which coaches use to describe players that have an otherworldly intelligence on the field, like Lomax. “He does have some natural stuff where he gets a feel for where plays should break and where things are going to go,” Gonzales said. “It’s stuff you can’t teach.” Lomax spent the entire summer watching game film of himself and his opponents so he could learn how to get better. He is a perfectionist, Gonzales said. Not only do safeties have to be able to read the field, play pass protection and be solid tacklers, but they have to be confident that they can patrol the field. Lomax has that confidence, but it doesn’t always lead to friendly exchanges. “At times we butt heads, but in a good way. Like I said, he’s a smart football player, he thinks he’s right all the time, sometimes we disagree,” Gonzales said. “Those are the kind of guys you want in our room.” Fellow teammates are big fans of the 5-foot-11, 190-pound Mira Mesa High graduate. “Trey? Oh man, he’s my boy!” junior safety Malik Smith said. Lomax recorded 63 tackles last year in 12 games with three tackles for a loss and two fumble recoveries. This year, Lomax is visibly excited for what the secondary can accomplish. It helps that all five players from last year’s No. 14 ranked pass defense in the country are back. They’re still working on little things, such as tiny pre-snap adjustments that could make a big difference. “One step to the right could help us
An SDSU football fan cheers on redshirt-sophomore safety Trey Lomax at a football game. MEGAN WOOD, PHOTO EDITOR
make a play,” Lomax said. Unlike many football players and coaches who are loud, intense and visibly passionate, Lomax is the calm, stealthy, focused player. And the reason he’s calm? Again, it’s his confidence. “I have a lot of confidence in our defense and our team and everything that we’re doing,” Lomax said. “There’s no need to panic or tense up, because that’s when you make mistakes.” With such a violent sport like football, that calmness isn’t always a good thing. “Growing up, my personality’s always been laid back, which has been a bad
thing at times because I can get lazy,” he said. Gonzales, along with head coach Rocky Long, have been concerned all along that the safeties and the rest of the secondary are so good that they might slack off in practice. Gonzales, himself, is the calmest coach on the practice field, unlike some coaches who scream after every play. The challenge this year, along with improving upon last year’s success, is keeping the safeties, Lomax included, from losing focus on the Aztecs’ ultimate goal. A Mountain West Championship.
4 SPORTS
AUG. 19 - 25, 2015 • THE DAILY AZTEC EDITOR: PATRICK CARR • SPORTS@THEDAILYAZTEC.COM
#AZTECWSOCCER
Mentality is key for SDSU
Sophomore forward Angela Mitchell dribbles against Long Beach State University. MEGHAN MCCARRON, STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
BRANDON TRUFFA STAFF WRITER ____________________________ As the World Cup champion United States women’s national soccer team brushes the confetti off of its shoulders and polishes its coveted trophy in preparation to parade it across the nation, the San Diego State women’s soccer team is polishing its cleats and dusting off its kits for the 2015 campaign. Coming off a 2014 season in which SDSU finished 155-2 and won a third straight Mountain West regular-season and tournament title, the Aztecs are looking to take the next step: a deep run in the NCAA tournament. The past two seasons have
seen the Aztecs eliminated from the NCAA Women’s College Cup in just the first round. In 2013, they fell 3-0 to No. 2 UCLA and in 2014, they lost to California 3-2 in extra time. But a new year and a fresh start are on the horizon. After spending the summer watching stars like Alex Morgan, Carli Lloyd, and Abby Wambach reach the top of their mountain, SDSU is looking to do the same. Head coach Mike Friesen, who served as a World Cup analyst over the summer at Fox 5 San Diego, spoke about how the mentality of the USWNT has inspired his players. “One of the things we’re taking away from the U.S. winning is the mentality they had,” Friesen said. “Their mentality really
carried them through, and that kind of pushed them over the top toward the end of the tournament.” Fans got to see the first glimpse of the 2015 squad under the lights last Friday when SDSU took the pitch for a friendly against Long Beach State University. The Aztecs won 1-0. Junior midfielder Victoria Barba netted the lone goal of the match on a penalty kick in the 60th minute. It was her first appearance since suffering a torn labrum in her hip early last season. Following the match, Barba had a hard time describing her feelings of playing again. “Honestly, I don’t have any words for it because I’m just glad I’m able to play again,” Barba said. The friendly gave Friesen an opportunity to pinpoint the team’s strengths, as well as the areas it needs to improve upon. “We feel really good about where we’re at. This is a very, very talented team with a lot of new pieces, especially in the midfield,” Friesen said. The new faces include transfers Hedda Regefalk from Cal State Bakersfield, and Gemma Craine from Monroe College in New York. Friesen was also excited about two new freshmen: forward Leah Pruitt, who was all over the pitch Friday, and utility player Milan Moses. “I thought Leah Pruitt, tonight, was the best player on the field,” Friesen said. “We’re
excited about her and Milan Moses.” The friendly also brought out a few concerns for SDSU heading into the season. Friesen pointed out how the team needs to improve on the defensive side of the ball. “We’ve got to clean some things up on the defensive side, and just have a little more of the grit and the mentality to defend,,” he said. “If we can do those things, we can erase those concerns.” As far as taking the next step in the national tournament, Friesen believes the Aztecs will have to perform well in the early stages of the season. The Aztecs will face University of Kentucky, Arizona State University and the team that ended their national title dream last season, Cal, all on the road. Friesen believes that his team will have to win these key nonconference games, as well as games within the conference, in order to propel themselves to the next level. “We’ve got a very difficult schedule, a lot of games on the road, but if we can get victories out of some of those games, and do very well in conference, it’s going to put us in a position where we can ... not have an early game in the NCAA tournament against an extremely difficult opponent,” Friesen said. The Aztecs will kick off their regular season against Utah Valley University at the SDSU Sports Desk on Aug. 21 at 7 p.m.
COMMENTARY
SDSU cannot not lose to USD San Diego State football opens nonconference play against the University of San Diego on Sept. 5. This fauxrivalry game is the first meeting between the teams in 54 years, but there is more than intercity pride on the line. For the Aztecs, it’s a mustwin game where the win yields nothing tangible, but a loss is a crippling blow to a brand new season. This is true because SDSU and USD play in different subdivisions of college football. The Aztecs play in the Football Bowl Subdivision, which is familiar to the average fan because its best teams compete in bowl games during the holidays. USD, however, plays in the Football Championship Subdivision, reserved for smaller schools that compete in their own postseason playoff. Throughout college football
history it has become customary for larger, stronger FBS schools to schedule FCS opponents and provide an Old-Testament-style sacrifice of a small team. However, the tides of college football are changing and the once helpless FCS schools have started building impressive resumes of beaten FBS opponents. In the opening week of 2013 eight FCS schools beat FBS opponents. Since 2006, the Aztecs have a 6-3 record against FCS teams. But winning six out of nine games is hardly an accomplishment when there’s an expectation to wallop the opposition. It’s hard to count these as wins anything but averted disasters. Bill Bender, a national college football writer for Sporting News, warns against the dangers of scheduling an FCS school. “It’s a risk for an FBS school to schedule (FCS teams),” Bender said. “You don’t want to be, for lack of a better word, embarrassed.” These embarrassments sometimes cost FBS teams bowl eligibility or relegate them to a less desirable bowl game. In 2013, the Aztecs were stomped 40-19 in the season
EDITOR IN CHIEF Kelly Hillock MANAGING EDITOR Matthew Bain NEWS EDITOR Quinn Owen ASST. NEWS EDITOR Torrey Bailey SPORTS EDITOR Patrick J. Carr ASST. SPORTS EDITOR Ryan Posner OPINION EDITOR Amanda Kay Rhoades ASST. OPINION EDITOR Anthony Berteaux ARTS & LIFESTYLE EDITOR Olivia Litsey ASST. ARTS & LIFESTYLE EDITOR Ryo Miyauchi PHOTO EDITOR Megan Wood DIGITAL CONTENT EDITOR Annalise Dewhurst VIDEO PRODUCER Daniel Galuppo PRODUCTION DESIGNERS Kaylee Andrews Hannah Lingle-Veale VOLUNTEER WRITERS Brandon Truffa Kris Keehl Jack Haworth Adriana Millar Jennifer Peralta Kalah Siegel Anna Walezko Cami Buckman Colleen Larson Jamie Ballard VOLUNTEER PHOTOGRAPHERS Meghan McCarron Sarah Smith Andy Farra ___________________________
ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Adam Zabel SALES MANAGER AJ Swamy
#AZTECFB
KRIS KEEHL STAFF COLUMNIST ____________________________
Who’sWho?
opener by Eastern Illinois University, an FCS opponent. This led to SDSU finishing with an 8-5 record and playing in the Famous Idaho Potato Bowl. However, Bender said scheduling has become an issue for schools like SDSU. It is stuck in the middle tier of college football, referred to as the Group of Five conferences. Out of the 10 FBS conferences, the top five are referred to as the Power Five, which plays Saturday games on major TV networks and net tens of millions of dollars per season. During this offseason, Power Five teams began moving toward exclusively scheduling other Power Five teams. As a result, Group of Five schools have a smaller pool of teams to schedule, and may have to schedule FCS opponents out of necessity. But beware of that land mine. A loss to an FCS school, or low-level Group of Five school such as week-three opponent University of South Alabama, is catastrophic. Which makes one wonder, why take the risk of scheduling lesser opponents? It’s illogical to believe that lesser competition equals a
better win-loss record and a chance to reach better bowl games or the college football playoff. In fact, scheduling better opponents and winning tough games on the road is the proven way to increase program profile, reach more prestigious bowl games and possibly escape the Mountain West and Group of Five. “It increases exposure. Boise State, (Texas Christian University) and (University of) Utah used that,” Bender said. “They were in a smaller conference, but they increased their exposure by playing Power Five schools and winning.” TCU and Utah once played in the MW, but both now play in Power Five conferences and face some of the country’s top competition. Because of conference affiliations and program success, both teams have a chance to win a national championship. “You’re going to have to go into some big places and win some big games,” Bender said. “It’s doable.” With current scheduling practices, the Aztecs will never play for a national championship.
MARKETING MANAGER Radbeh Rabaz ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Conor Nordberg Emmilly Nguyen Christopher Garcia Kelsey Silver 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 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.
SPORTS 5
AUG. 19 - 25, 2015 • THE DAILY AZTEC EDITOR: PATRICK CARR • SPORTS@THEDAILYAZTEC.COM
#ALUMNISPOTLIGHT
Ashley set for Beijing track meet
PHOTO COURTESY OF ANGELA WASHINGTON
JACK HAWORTH STAFF WRITER ____________________________ “It’s indescribable, I just have to pause for a moment and realize that’s my child out there competing,” said Angela Washington, mother of 2012 San Diego State track and field alumnus Whitney Ashley. Those are the words Ms. Washington used to describe watching her daughter in competitions.
While many parents can relate to those feelings, few can relate to watching their child compete in the IAAF World Championships at the Bird’s Nest National Stadium in Beijing, China. That is exactly where Ashley will compete next week in the women’s discus event for Team USA. She qualified for the event after finishing second at the recent U.S. Outdoor Track and Field National Championships with a throw
of 62.21 meters. Ashley has not always been interested in the discus event. In fact, if not for her mom, Ashley may not have even competed in track and field at all. That is because her mom also served as her very first track and field coach. Washington coached at John W. North High School in Riverside, California, and was the first to introduce Ashley to discus throwing.
“My mother is the reason I even picked up an implement,” Ashley said. “She had a passion to coach and she saw that I could do great things. I accredit her with much of my success.” During high school, Ashley started her throwing career with the shot put event and only tried discus by coincidence. The team had no discus throwers, so her mom convinced her to give it a try even though Ashley was not too keen on the idea. “I saw her hold a discus for the first time and not even know what it was called or how to hold it,” Washington said. Despite the her initial resistance, Ashley found success in this new event and won a state championship in the discus while at Cerritos College in 2008. However, it still took years before she finally had the confidence to believe in herself as a discus thrower. “I had zero confidence when I stepped foot on SDSU’s campus,” Ashley said. “My teammates and competitors were bigger, stronger and more experienced. I didn’t even see myself as a winner until I won my first title.” “I faked it until I made it.” While she entered SDSU with little confidence, she continued to grow both personally and athletically throughout her time on Montezuma Mesa. The coaches pushed her to focus on technique and she responded with farther throws. When it was finally time to graduate, Ashley was the 2012 NCAA Division I discus champion and the sky was the limit. “SDSU is where I got my
start and I learned a great deal about who I was and what I was made of,” Ashley said. “I was surrounded by a staff who cared about me and wanted to see me succeed academically and athletically. It also helped that I was able to win a Division I title, my confidence shot through the roof and I am still confident to this day.” After college, Ashley has continued to grow as a thrower. In 2013, she finished runner-up in the U.S. Outdoor Track and Field National Championships and also competed in the IAAF World Championships in Moscow, Russia. Unfortunately, Moscow left much to be desired for Ashley as she failed to qualify out of her group and into the finals. So at this year’s IAAF World Championships, Ashley is as motivated as ever and ready for redemption. “I am better prepared this time around. I am more aware, throwing a lot further and much more experienced,” Ashley said. In spite of the challenges of the sport, her mom remains committed to supporting her. In fact, Washington attends every major competition her daughter competes in, including when Ashley will compete against the best in the world on Aug. 24-25 at the Bird’s Nest. As far as the Olympics are concerned, Ashley not only plans on competing in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, in 2016, but also intends to medal there. No matter what happens, though, her country, fellow Aztecs and the one who has been there since the very beginning, her mom, will cheer her on.
#AZTECFB
Two quarterbacks for SDSU?
Redshirt-freshman quarterback Christian Chapman (No. 10) takes a snap. SARAH SMITH, STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
RYAN POSNER ASST. SPORTS EDITOR ____________________________ The lack of a starting quarterback has been San Diego State football’s main storyline this offseason. Head coach Rocky Long and his staff have narrowed
down the race to graduate transfer Maxwell Smith and redshirt sophomore Christian Chapman. However, Long wouldn’t be surprised if both quarterbacks received playing time this season. “There are teams who are OK with two quarterbacks,” he said
at Tuesday’s press conference. “(Smith and Chapman) are so close right now I do see that as a possibility.” Long compared having multiple signal-callers to using pitchers in a baseball game. “If he is having a bad day, you go out and put the other guy in and hope he has a good day,” Long said. The race for the starting quarterback spot might not be resolved until the team’s opener against the University of San Diego. Smith undoubtedly has more NCAA experience while playing for the University of Kentucky in the SEC before transferring to SDSU in the spring. But Long is not going to base the decision on the past experiences. “If a young man has not been in your program, you don’t base decisions on what
he did someplace else,” he said. “He’s got to prove that he’s the guy.” As fall camp rolls on, Long said that the decision changes day to day and sometimes even from drill to drill during practice. “I think it’s a great competition which should make them both better, and overall, give us a better situation at quarterback,” he said. ALL THE SAME TO CHASE PRICE Somebone who will be receiving handoffs from whomever the new quarterback is will be senior Chase Price, the backup running back to junior Donnel Pumphrey. For Price, it doesn’t matter who gets the starting role and, in fact, he likes the competition that goes on
during practice between the quarterbacks. “I don’t think it plays a role. I actually think it makes (practice) more competitive,” Price said. “You are always looking like, ‘Man, who’s going to make the play?’ It’s just whoever steps up and wants to be that guy.” Being on the same page as the quarterback is important for any running back, especially on a team like SDSU that runs the ball heavily. As far as handing the ball off, Price thinks each quarterback does it about the same. “They all do it very well,” he said with a laugh. Next up for the team is the fall scrimmage, which will take place Aug. 22 at Qualcomm Stadium, as will the annual Aztec Fan Fest. It will be the last time the team scrimmages before its opener against USD on Sept. 5.
6 WELCOME TO STATE
AUG. 19 - 25, 2015 • THE DAILY AZTEC editor: kelly hillock • editor@thedailyaztec.com
#welcomehome
The Show cheers on the Aztecs in Viejas Arena. megan wood, photo editor
be an aztec Kelly Hillock Editor in chief _________________________________
Daily Aztec is published weekly every Wednesday — available throughout campus in the red bins
Welcome to the Aztec family!
— and new articles are published
Thank you for picking up this
online every day.
newspaper. The Daily Aztec
This issue is our annual “Freshman
has served the San Diego State
Survival Guide” issue, created
community for more than 100
specifically with our new Aztecs in
years. We are the voice of SDSU for
mind. Inside this issue, you’ll find
all things Aztec-related: breaking
all the information you need to be
news, student organizations
an Aztec, from campus secrets
and sports. The Daily Aztec is a
(p. 11), upcoming concerts (p. 12),
completely student-run newspaper
quick quotes from your Associated
— we’re written, edited and
Students leaders (p. 14) and tips on
managed by students and for
how to talk to a professor (p. 15).
students.
We publish special theme issues
We strive to inform, entertain and
every other week. Look out for our
inspire our community with the
“Back to School” issue on Aug. 26.
stories most relevant to SDSU,
Let us know what you think about
from alumni spotlights, to football
this issue at thedailyaztec.com.
commentary and previews on
Have a great freshman year, and go
concerts at Viejas Arena. The
Aztecs!
#Statefacts
Fast facts TORREY BAILEY ASST. NEWS EDITOR Congratulations, you’re here! The San Diego State campus is your playground for mental exploration and social experimentation. But before you start calling yourself a true Aztec, there are a few things you need to know about your new home. Many of you will be part of the 2018 graduating class, but, believe it or not, SDSU welcomed its first group of students back in 1897. This makes SDSU the oldest university in San Diego. It’s also the largest university in the city and the third largest in the state. Under our roof, you’ll find more than 30,000 students. About 25,000 of these students are undergraduates like yourself who can choose from nearly 160 undergraduate majors and minors. The remaining 5,000 are graduate students who cover close to 100 degrees and credentials. SDSU also opens its doors to community members looking to further their education. They can choose from classes, seminars and certificate programs in the College of Extended Studies. Southern California is one of the most desirable places to live in the country. SDSU frequently ranks among the top 10 schools in the nation for number of applications. So if you’re here it’s because you earned it! Out of the 25,000 undergraduate students, there is one thing you have
in common with each and every one of them: brain power. On average, last year’s incoming SDSU freshman had a high school GPA of 3.82, a SAT score of 1159, and an ACT score of 25. This stirs up a competitive environment for all students. But students are not only smart here, they also create an international mix. You are walking among students from more than 100 different countries. And you have the chance to experience those countries for yourself, thanks to SDSU’s study abroad program, which ranks third in the California and within the nation’s top 25. Even if you don’t want to take studying abroad for a spin, there is plenty for you to do right here on campus. Hundreds of student organizations will be fighting for your membership. There are over 50 fraternities and sororities available to you, as well as countless intramural and club sports teams. The distinguished Army, Navy or Air Force ROTC programs provide even more opportunities for students looking to serve their country . No matter which path you choose to follow, SDSU will hold your hand the entire journey. Everywhere you turn there are Aztecs by your side cheering you on. In fact, one in seven adults in San Diego with a college degree are former Aztecs. Now it’s time for you to go put these facts to use. But remember, if there is only one thing to remember on this campus, it better be this: “I believe that we will win!”
WELCOME TO STATE 7
AUG. 19 - 25, 2015 • THE DAILY AZTEC editor: kelly hillock • editor@thedailyaztec.com
looking for a place to grab some food or a quiet spot to study? There are lots of great places for Aztecs to hang out on campus. 1) relax in the shade at The Mediterranean Garden 2) Eat at The Student union 3) feed the turtles at the pond 4) hang out at the quad behind Storm hall 5) Enjoy the quiet at the Fern Garden 6) study at the Turtle Pond. Photos by megan wood, photo editor 7) catch the sunset on The bridge over College AVe., photo by andy farra, senior staff photographer.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
7. 6.
08-15-118 AztecNights WelcomeWeek ad_Layout 1 8/12/15 8:34 AM Page 1
sdsu.edu/welcomeweek
START YOUR AZTEC LIFE WITH WELCOME WEEK! More than 95% of new Aztecs participate in these thrilling events. Join us and begin your SDSU adventure!
DAY&NIGHT FREE EVENTS FOR SDSU STUDENTS *
FRIDAY, AUGUST 21
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 5
Associated Students Expo
Templo del Sol
Comedy Night
10 am – 2 pm, Centennial Walkway in front of the Conrad Prebys Aztec Student Union
9 pm - midnight, Hepner Hall
LGBTQ Reception/The Pride Center Open House
SATURDAY, AUGUST 22 10 pm - 2 am, Hepner Hall
Student Disability Services Open House
SUNDAY, AUGUST 23
Band Run
Jewish Student Welcome Week Mixer
SUNDAY, AUGUST 23
10 am – 4 pm, Montezuma Hall, Conrad Prebys Aztec Student Union
Screen on the Green
9 pm - midnight, Hepner Quad
EOP Extravaganza
ARC ’til Dark
Noon – 2 pm, EOP Tutoring Center, Student Services East 2109
It's a Drag
7:30 am – 6 pm, Centennial Walkway & outside Hepner Hall
Mix it Up @ the Union
Career Runway: Step into Success
BBQ & Pool Party
Out of State Student Reception
2 – 5 pm, Aquaplex
EOP Fun and Games
One SDSU Community Kick off Reception
1 – 4 pm, EOP Tutoring Center, Student Services East 2109
5 - 7 pm, Montezuma Hall, Conrad Prebys Aztec Student Union
Commuter Welcome Reception
TUESDAY, AUGUST 25
1 – 2:30 pm, Commuter Resource Center, Conrad Prebys Aztec Student Union 210P
7:30 am – 6 pm, Centennial Walkway & outside Hepner Hall
SATURDAY, AUGUST 29
Student Involvement Expo Student Organizations
Aztec Football Swarm
FRIDAY, AUGUST 28
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 12
Campus Carnival
Monte Carlo
10 pm - 2 am, Goldberg Courtyard, Conrad Prebys Aztec Student Union
9 pm - midnight, Conrad Prebys Aztec Student Union
10 pm - 2 am, Centennial Walkway and Goldberg Courtyard, Conrad Prebys Aztec Student Union FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 18
Treat Yourself
10 pm - 2 am, Montezuma Hall, Conrad Prebys Aztec Student Union
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 3
Pool Party
3 - 5 pm, Conrad Prebys Aztec Student Union Room 210P
Magician & Hypnotist
Barnyard Bash
5 - 7 pm, Goldberg Courtyard, Conrad Prebys Aztec Student Union
FRIDAY, AUGUST 28
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 11
SATURDAY, AUGUST 29
Graduate Student Mixer
11 am – 2 pm, Goldberg Courtyard, Conrad Prebys Aztec Student Union
ASK ME Tents
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 7
9 pm - midnight, Montezuma Hall, Conrad Prebys Aztec Student Union
10 pm - 2 am, Campanile Walkway
2 – 4 pm, Career Services, Student Services East 1200
ASK ME Tents
Screen on the Green
6 pm - 9 pm, Aztec Aquaplex
Student Involvement Expo - Greek Life
Noon – 3 pm, Campanile Walkway
MONDAY, AUGUST 24
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 6
THURSDAY, AUGUST 27
10:30 am, Viejas Arena
5 – 8 pm, Aztec Recreation Center
10 pm - 2 am, Theatre/Montezuma Hall, Conrad Prebys Aztec Student Union
9 pm - midnight, Aztec Green
6 – 8 pm, Melvin Garb Hillel Center, 5717 Lindo Paseo
THURSDAY, AUGUST 27
Live Well Aztecs Festival
Welcome Back Dance
11 am - 1 pm, The Pride Center, 5141 Campanile Drive 3 - 5 pm, Calpulli Center 3101
New Student & Family Convocation
*with valid Red ID
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 26
SATURDAY, AUGUST 22 8:45 am, Residence Halls
aztecnights.com
International Music Festival 9 pm - midnight, Montezuma Hall, Conrad Prebys Aztec Student Union
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 19
Lights Out
10 pm - 2 am, ENS Field
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 4
World Record Night
10 pm - 2 am, Goldberg Courtyard, Conrad Prebys Aztec Student Union
All dates, times and locations are subject to change.
5 pm, Aztec Football Practice Field (behind Parking Structure 5)
10 am – 4 pm, North Library Walkway
Aztec Bash @ State
All dates, times and locations are subject to change.
Noon – 2 pm, North Centennial Walkway
Cultural Community Receptions Various locations and times
Division of Student Affairs Business and Financial Affairs
08/15 (118)
events.sdsu.edu
#aztecnights
08-15-118 AztecNights WelcomeWeek ad_Layout 1 8/12/15 8:34 AM Page 1
sdsu.edu/welcomeweek
START YOUR AZTEC LIFE WITH WELCOME WEEK! More than 95% of new Aztecs participate in these thrilling events. Join us and begin your SDSU adventure!
DAY&NIGHT FREE EVENTS FOR SDSU STUDENTS *
FRIDAY, AUGUST 21
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 5
Associated Students Expo
Templo del Sol
Comedy Night
10 am – 2 pm, Centennial Walkway in front of the Conrad Prebys Aztec Student Union
9 pm - midnight, Hepner Hall
LGBTQ Reception/The Pride Center Open House
SATURDAY, AUGUST 22 10 pm - 2 am, Hepner Hall
Student Disability Services Open House
SUNDAY, AUGUST 23
Band Run
Jewish Student Welcome Week Mixer
SUNDAY, AUGUST 23
10 am – 4 pm, Montezuma Hall, Conrad Prebys Aztec Student Union
Screen on the Green
9 pm - midnight, Hepner Quad
EOP Extravaganza
ARC ’til Dark
Noon – 2 pm, EOP Tutoring Center, Student Services East 2109
It's a Drag
7:30 am – 6 pm, Centennial Walkway & outside Hepner Hall
Mix it Up @ the Union
Career Runway: Step into Success
BBQ & Pool Party
Out of State Student Reception
2 – 5 pm, Aquaplex
EOP Fun and Games
One SDSU Community Kick off Reception
1 – 4 pm, EOP Tutoring Center, Student Services East 2109
5 - 7 pm, Montezuma Hall, Conrad Prebys Aztec Student Union
Commuter Welcome Reception
TUESDAY, AUGUST 25
1 – 2:30 pm, Commuter Resource Center, Conrad Prebys Aztec Student Union 210P
7:30 am – 6 pm, Centennial Walkway & outside Hepner Hall
SATURDAY, AUGUST 29
Student Involvement Expo Student Organizations
Aztec Football Swarm
FRIDAY, AUGUST 28
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 12
Campus Carnival
Monte Carlo
10 pm - 2 am, Goldberg Courtyard, Conrad Prebys Aztec Student Union
9 pm - midnight, Conrad Prebys Aztec Student Union
10 pm - 2 am, Centennial Walkway and Goldberg Courtyard, Conrad Prebys Aztec Student Union FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 18
Treat Yourself
10 pm - 2 am, Montezuma Hall, Conrad Prebys Aztec Student Union
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 3
Pool Party
3 - 5 pm, Conrad Prebys Aztec Student Union Room 210P
Magician & Hypnotist
Barnyard Bash
5 - 7 pm, Goldberg Courtyard, Conrad Prebys Aztec Student Union
FRIDAY, AUGUST 28
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 11
SATURDAY, AUGUST 29
Graduate Student Mixer
11 am – 2 pm, Goldberg Courtyard, Conrad Prebys Aztec Student Union
ASK ME Tents
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 7
9 pm - midnight, Montezuma Hall, Conrad Prebys Aztec Student Union
10 pm - 2 am, Campanile Walkway
2 – 4 pm, Career Services, Student Services East 1200
ASK ME Tents
Screen on the Green
6 pm - 9 pm, Aztec Aquaplex
Student Involvement Expo - Greek Life
Noon – 3 pm, Campanile Walkway
MONDAY, AUGUST 24
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 6
THURSDAY, AUGUST 27
10:30 am, Viejas Arena
5 – 8 pm, Aztec Recreation Center
10 pm - 2 am, Theatre/Montezuma Hall, Conrad Prebys Aztec Student Union
9 pm - midnight, Aztec Green
6 – 8 pm, Melvin Garb Hillel Center, 5717 Lindo Paseo
THURSDAY, AUGUST 27
Live Well Aztecs Festival
Welcome Back Dance
11 am - 1 pm, The Pride Center, 5141 Campanile Drive 3 - 5 pm, Calpulli Center 3101
New Student & Family Convocation
*with valid Red ID
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 26
SATURDAY, AUGUST 22 8:45 am, Residence Halls
aztecnights.com
International Music Festival 9 pm - midnight, Montezuma Hall, Conrad Prebys Aztec Student Union
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 19
Lights Out
10 pm - 2 am, ENS Field
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 4
World Record Night
10 pm - 2 am, Goldberg Courtyard, Conrad Prebys Aztec Student Union
All dates, times and locations are subject to change.
5 pm, Aztec Football Practice Field (behind Parking Structure 5)
10 am – 4 pm, North Library Walkway
Aztec Bash @ State
All dates, times and locations are subject to change.
Noon – 2 pm, North Centennial Walkway
Cultural Community Receptions Various locations and times
Division of Student Affairs Business and Financial Affairs
08/15 (118)
events.sdsu.edu
#aztecnights
10 WELCOME TO STATE
AUG. 19 - 25, 2015 • THE DAILY AZTEC EDITOR: KELLY HILLOCK • EDITOR@THEDAILYAZTEC.COM
#SDSUCLUBS
Getting involved on campus
Getting involved around campus is a way to make new friends and develop important life skills. COURTESY OF SDSU SPORT CLUBS
ADRIANA MILLAR STAFF WRITER ____________________________ With a campus of over 33,000 students, it is easy to feel lost among the crowd. But with more than 300 extracurricular organizations, SDSU is the perfect place for students to find their passions. “It’s important to get involved because SDSU is such a large campus, and there are thousands of students here, so it’s easy to become overwhelmed,” A.S. Executive Vice President Leo Carrillo III said. “But if you can find your niche through joining an organization, board or
committee, you will feel so much more at home on campus.” Carillo said campus involvement leads to meaningful relationships between classmates and professors, while enabling students to make a difference. Most involved Aztecs will agree that engaging in extracurricular activities outside of the classroom has many benefits. Erika Zemke is a senior studying qualitative economics. She’s also president of the SDSU College Panhellenic Association, which encompasses eight internationally recognized
sorority chapters. “Getting to go to class and seeing a familiar face helps with the comfortability factor,” she said. “It makes things easier to have a common ground.” Not only will engaging with organizations create fond memories on campus, it will also serve a student after graduation. Megan Goodman, SDSU senior and chair of Green Love, a sustainability organization, said getting involved leads to the development of many key skills, such as running meetings, networking and learning to work together with all types of people. “Joining an organization will
contribute to your personal and professional growth,” Carrillo said. “Along the way you will have networking opportunities to meet industry professionals and also discover new perspectives, and you’ll gain a sense of Aztec pride.” SDSU has an organization for almost every interest. But some students choose to start their own. One example is Aztec Music Group, which was created last semester to connect students interested in the music industry. “We wanted to create a culture of people who love music and were interested in professional opportunities,” Aztec Music Group President and marketing junior Cooper Abrams said. “We didn’t think we had something like that before.” However, not all students seek organizations so fervently. Most student leaders The Daily Aztec spoke with pointed out there is a lack of student involvement on campus. “Personally, I don’t think enough students are involved,” Zemke said. “A large amount of student involvement comes from the Greek community.” Zemke said she urges
The Zahn Innovation Platform A $5.1-million gift from the Moxie Foundation will launch a new era of innovation and entrepreneurship at San Diego State University. The endowment will create an Innovation Platform, a Chair of Creativity and Innovation, a Professorship of Creativity and Innovation, and the Irwin Zahn Spirit of Innovation Prize, each playing a significant role in preparing students for bold and innovative problem-solving in the 21st century. Read more about this exciting new venture at www.sdsu.edu/ZIP
friends who run clubs and organizations to think of new ways to promote their groups and expand membership. A number of factors can dissuade students from joining organizations, but Carillo said it is never too late to step out of the comfort zone. For him, it was worth it. “I wish I would have gotten involved sooner to be honest,” he said. “I didn’t get involved until my second year of college because I was too afraid to try something new and make new friends. Once I got involved, I became very passionate about learning from diverse experiences through joining other organizations at SDSU.” Reflecting on his own experiences, Carillo said student organizations are larger than the sum of their parts. “It’s not just about going to meetings,” Carillo said. “It’s about trying new things, meeting new people, being open to new experiences and allowing yourself to grow and change and become the best version of yourself. Every student deserves that, and I hope that more students take advantage of these opportunities here at SDSU.”
AUG. 19 - 25, 2015 • THE DAILY AZTEC EDITOR: KELLY HILLOCK • EDITOR@THEDAILYAZTEC.COM
WELCOME TO STATE
11
President John F. Kennedy speaks at Aztec Bowl during the 1963 commencement ceremony. COURTESY OF SDSU
#CAMPUSSECRETS
Campus hides forgotten treasures OLIVIA LITSEY A&L EDITOR The average San Diego State student progressively learns more about the school’s campus during the time they spend working toward graduation. But perhaps the most knowledgeable person when it comes to SDSU’s campus is anthropology professor Seth Mallios, who wrote the book “Hail Montezuma: The Hidden Treasures of San Diego State.” Here are six interesting pieces of SDSU campus history shared in part by Mallios that many students pass by unknowingly: 1. SCRIPPS COTTAGE SDSU was once called San Diego Normal School and was located on Park Boulevard at the beginning of the 20th century. Strangely enough, some of the bricks used at Park Boulevard were built into a barbeque located behind Scripps Cottage, but that’s just the beginning of it. “At the edge of this
barbeque is this big granite block — but it’s not a block, it’s a hollowed out time capsule,” Mallios said. “I think that’s the number one thing in terms of stuff that’s right under our nose.” Though the time capsule is empty due to an unfortunate leak, the documents that were originally inside of it now reside in the library special collections. 2. SOUTH OF HEPNER HALL Montezuma Mesa was not always as large as it is now. “When you look at the old pictures of Hepner Hall, [it] used to drop off into a canyon almost immediately,” Mallios said. SDSU allowed Caltrans to build Interstate 8 on the land they owned ranging from Waring Road to College Ave. The enormous amount of excess dirt created from tunneling through this land was given to the university to expand the mesa. The flat area that makes up Campanile Walkway among others exists for that
reason. 3. AZTEC BOWL, The peculiar area of old concrete bleachers that lays next to Viejas Arena and the Aztec Recreation Center is there for two historic reasons. “It being a (Works Progress Administration) project and (President) Kennedy speaking there made it so that it was on this National Register of Historic Places, which means you need to save part of it when you’re building,” Mallios said. As a result, this slice of Aztec Bowl will be around for a long time. 4. MURALS IN THE DOME Hardy Tower was once called Library Tower, and the school’s art department was once located in its basement. Two student murals from the 1930s, one depicting National Recovery Act packages being delivered to Hillcrest and the other of the tuna fishing industry, were found hidden behind some acoustic ceiling tiles
during a renovation. Mallios said it was a challenge to raise money and remove the paintings from the wall, but he is happy that a connection between generations of students could be permanently preserved. “There’s something so intentional and creative about student art,” he said. “I think (it) does a lot to create a sense of community on campus.” 5. HANDBALL COURT UNDER THE BOOKSTORE Just as the bookstore was once located where the faculty-staff club building is now, the site of today’s bookstore was originally home to a handball court. The court can be seen on a 1936 campus map. Mallios explained that the sport was once very popular. “That used to be the big activity,” he said. “I’m sure there are young handball players out there — well, I’m not sure there are young handball players out there! I haven’t seen a handball player in so long.”
6. “AZTEC” STATUE IN PROSPECTIVE STUDENT CENTER This black diorite statue is a Works Progress Administration piece made in the 1930s by sculptor Donal Hord, whose work can be found throughout San Diego. The New York City Museum of Modern Art commissioned the statue’s transfer to New York by train to be in an exhibition in the 1940s. The statue was initially located in the quad between Hardy Tower and Hepner Hall. Later it was moved to Campanile Walkway, and finally it was placed in the Prospective Student Center. A reproduction of the piece can also be found at the Parma Payne Goodall Alumni Center. Mallios addressed that the time at which the sculpture was made has some significance to the university history. “That was right when San Diego State became (known as) the Aztecs,” he said. “I don’t know if people realize how cool that is.”
12 EVENTS
AUG. 19 - 25, 2015 • THE DAILY AZTEC EDITOR: KELLY HILLOCK • EDITOR@THEDAILYAZTEC.COM
#CAMPUSENTERTAINMENT
Campus hosts shows sure to please Viejas Arena SUNDAY SEP. 13, 2015 chayanne
SATURDAY, SEP. 19, 2015
SUNDAY, SEP. 20, 2015
SATURDAY, OCT. 17, 2015
SUNDAY, NOV. 8, 2015
Kevin Hart
Janet Jackson
WEDNESDAY, OCT. 14, 2015 Florence and the Machine
Ricky Martin
Miguel Bose
SUNDAY, DEC. 20, 2015 Motley Crue
Supporting act: Alice Cooper
Cal Coast Credit Union Open Air Theatre SATURDAY, SEP. 5, 2015
FRIDAY, SEP. 11, 2015
FRIDAY, SEP. 18, 2015
TUESDAY, SEP. 22, 2015
Australian Pink Floyd with Led Zeppelin 2
Brian Regan
Montys
Damian Marley
FRIDAY, SEP. 25, 2015
SUNDAY, SEP. 27, 2015
TUESDAY, OCT. 6, 2015
Death Cab For Cutie
Duran Duran
Beirut
Supporting act: Best Coast
with special guest: Stephen Marley, Morgan Heritage, Tarrus Riley, Ghetto Youths Crew
Supporting act: Clean Bandit
TUESDAY, OCT. 13, 2015
THURSDAY, OCT. 15, 2015
FRIDAY, OCT. 16, 2015
Alt-J
Hozier
Twenty One Pilots
Supporting act: Little Green Cars
SATURDAY, OCT. 17, 2015
MONDAY, OCT. 19, 2015
Of Monsters and Men
My Morning Jacket
Supporting act: Amason
Supporting act: Fruit Bats
Supporting acts: Echosmith, Finish Ticket
AUG. 19 - 25, 2015 • THE DAILY AZTEC EDITOR: KELLY HILLOCK • EDITOR@THEDAILYAZTEC.COM
WELCOME TO STATE 13
#COOLCLASSES
Guide to great SDSU GE classes first semester was important to me because thanks to it, I discovered that communications was the path I wanted to go into, not nursing,” said Lucero Gonzalez, a recent communications graduate. “I was extremely shy before attending SDSU, so going into communications was a huge challenge.”
The SDSU General Catalog helps students pick classes.
JENNIFER PERALTA CONTRIBUTOR ____________________________________ Picking general education classes can be stressful, confusing and overwhelming for some first year students. One way to manage the task is so sit down with you general catalog and search for elective classes that help you grow in your career of choice.
One elective course that will kick-start your skill building is Oral Communication 103. San Diego State requires all students to take this class as a general education course. The class teaches you how to outline and deliver a public speech. COMMUNICATIONS 103 Comm 103 aims to help you conquer any public speaking fears. “Taking Comm 103 during my
MUSIC 351 After reaching more than 60 units, one upper-divsion GE sure to spark your interest is Music 351. The course covers the music and culture behind psychedelic rock in the 1960s. The class is taught by Eric Smigel, SDSU’s assistant professor of music. The class focuses on analyzing and interpreting a variety of trends related to the evolution of rock music in the 1960s. Themes include social, political, technological and artistic elements of the decade. The class even tuches on the role of psychotropic drugs in crafting the artistic expression of the era.
PSYCHOLOGY 101 Students interested in understanding concepts of the human behavior would enjoy Psychology 101, which is an introductory course to the field. “Psychology 101 is a very common general education course across universities,” said Dr. Emilio Ulloa, director of SDSU’s Education Opportunity Program and adjunct professor in psychology. “Most likely it’s popularity is partly a function of a genuine human curiosity we have about ourselves and other humans. Understanding the relationship between biological and psychological processes is applicable in a variety of real-world settings.” These classes are just a sample of the many options students can choose from. The course catalog is one resource a student could use. But seeking out the help of counselors in the undergraduate advising office is another way to navigate your schedule during your time at SDSU.
#SANDIEGOSPOTS
San Diego spots offer adventure
Beautiful Balboa Park is the site of several historic museums. SARAH SMITH, STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER
KALAH SIEGEL STAFF WRITER ____________________________________ Welcome (or welcome back) to America’s finest city: San Diego. Incoming freshmen or returning “in-the-know” upperclassmen, there are a few San Diego musts that every student must check off their to-do list before making the cut as a San Diegan. •Mission Beach and Bay San Diego is the land of sun, water and sand — soak it all in at Mission Beach and Mission Bay. The Mission area is the perfect setting to try surfing, paddleboarding, sailing, rowing and so much more. For the ambitious, there’s a variety of ENS classes offered at Mission Bay Aquatic Center for class credit. Not ready to commit to 16 weeks of fun in the sun? MBAC also offers discounted student rentals for those who only want a taste of water sport adventure. While in the neighborhood, don’t forget to check out Belmont Park for rides, games and restaurants. •Hiking Surprising to some, there’s more to San Diego than sandy beaches and endless waves. The area is also home to incredible hiking trails of all levels. Conquer Cowles Mountain for some incredible views of Lake Murray, San Diego State and 360-degree views of the city all the way to downtown and beyond. It’s only a five to ten minute drive from campus and
well worth the views. Potato Chip Rock is another well-known hike worth the walk for classic “hanging on for dear life” Potato Chip Rock pictures. For additional expeditions, check out Mission Trails Regional Park with more than 60 hiking trails, wildlife and camping. •Padres Game No matter the scoreboard or the opponent, Padres games are truly fun for all. The stadium itself is a mecca for local restaurants and breweries that set the perfect San Diego ambiance throughout the park. The organization also hosts college nights for $10 that feature a DJ and exclusive seating for local college students. Travel is equally inexpensive and convenient with the trolley dropping off and picking up at SDSU and downtown in the Gaslamp district. Mark that calendar – the next college night is Sept. 3. Go Pads! •Museums San Diego is also home to an incredible year-round celebration of culture. Balboa Park houses several historic museums ripe with information, art and history. The park is also extremely beautiful and worth strolling around the paths and pillars for the classic San Diego ambiance. Of course, museums and attractions aren’t limited to Balboa Park. The USS Midway museum in Little Italy is rich with San Diego’s naval history and a fun opportunity to see a historical Navy aircraft carrier up close and personal. •Aztec Basketball
Sure, attending an Aztec basketball game in Viejas Arena isn’t exactly getting off campus, but ask any upperclassman and they’ll have a fond basketball game memory on hand. First and foremost, the atmosphere is tangible — Bleacher Report didn’t name SDSU the number one student section in the country for nothing. Additionally, SDSU’s team is good —
really good — and fun to watch dominate on the court. The 7 a.m. wake-up call for tickets can be brutal, but Aztec basketball is worth the extra shot of espresso in the morning for ticket pick-up. San Diego native or newbie, the possibilities to explore this city are endless — Fall 2015 has adventure in store for all.
14 WELCOME TO STATE
AUG. 19 - 25, 2015 • THE DAILY AZTEC EDITOR: KELLY HILLOCK • EDITOR@THEDAILYAZTEC.COM
#ASSOCIATEDSTUDENTS
MEET YOUR STUDENT LEADERS RYAN POSNER ASST. SPORTS EDITOR
BLAIRE WARD
LEO CARRILLO
TYLER AGUILAR
ANDREA BOYD
DOMINIC BILOTTI
President, CEO of Associated Students
Executive Vice President, Chief Operations Officer
Vice President of University Affairs
Vice President of Financial Affairs
What made you want to hold such a high position?
When did you realize school spirit was important to you?
Vice President of External Relations at Associated Students, Chief Communication Officer
What’s the main focus of your position?
What made you want to get involved in finance?
“I connect students to the college councils, which is comprised of academic and major-related student organizations. Everyone is trying to get a job after college and this is the best way to do it — connecting with people inside your major.”
“I’m just like most students, you know, I’m on financial aid, I’ve lived paycheck to paycheck, I know times are not always easy for college students. Having said that, I just want to be able to help people who need it.”
“I want to be someone that any student on campus can come up to, talk to and get acquainted with. It’s important to me that every Aztec calls San Diego State their home because we’re a strong community and big family.” What are some hobbies or interests you have that most wouldn’t know about? “I love yoga and anything that has to do with exercise and fitness. I also like adventuring, hiking and traveling. Anytime I get to be outdoors and explore, I’m in my happy place.”
“I came from a small town and I wanted to find my niche at SDSU because when I first got here I wasn’t very involved and I was overwhelmed. Then my sophomore year I joined A.S. and other organizations and I felt a lot more connected to all my peers.” Was there a moment that sparked your pride for SDSU? “One moment I can remember was a basketball game freshman year and just seeing The Show making a lot of noise and how crazy it was.”
What makes you a good communicator with the student body? “Being connected on campus and really getting to understand different areas on campus helps change your approach to things, which is important. Our university emphasized diversity, so I think understanding where people come from and their backgrounds makes communicating easier. It’s easier to communicate with people when you understand their motives and they way they see things.”
What big initiatives do you have planned this year? “I want to connect with the deans of different colleges to take for-credit classes so that students can learn to develop skills within their major that also help promote, or run, different student organizations.”
What are some of your big plans for the year? “One of the biggest project I work on is Aztecs Rock Hunger, and our obvious goal for that every year is to beat the mark from the previous year. I want to make sure students who can’t afford a meal are able to get one and not be singled out because I know privacy is a big issue.”
Save a tree. Recycle your paper. #SDSUCLUBSPORTS
Club sports give social opportunities PATRICK CARR SPORTS EDITOR Back in 1908, before the internet, television and most amenities people take for granted today, a group of college kids came together and formed a club rowing team. Back in those days, San Diego State was called San Diego Normal School. Whistle-stop tours were how presidential candidates campaigned, people rode steam engine trains across the United States. The men’s crew club is still around at SDSU after 107 years. It’s by far the oldest sport club; the rugby club is the second oldest having been formed in 1958. Since those days more than
100 years ago, club sports have been a staple at SDSU. Thousands of students, some not good enough for the varsity teams, some wanting to try a new sport and some just wanting to have a little fun, have come and played on club sports teams. These days, there are 19 club sports at SDSU with more than 700 students participating in them. From the nationally ranked men’s club lacrosse team to the exciting action at the Kroc Center where Aztec Men’s Club Hockey plays and all the way out to Mission Bay where that same crew club practices, the spectrum of club sports is quite large. DeJuan Benford, Sport Clubs and Intramural Sports Coordinator at SDSU for the last 15 years, said
despite the high amount of opportunities the sport club program offers, there’s one key factor that attracts people to it. “Socialization. A lot of times, we get individuals who aren’t the most outgoing,” he said. “(The program) gives them the opportunity to build those long-lasting friendships and it provides a sense of belonging.” Jenny Budd, a senior at SDSU, is partly responsible for the creation of the 19th club sport: the tennis club. She and her friend Wade Houldin started the team three years ago because they wanted the culture of a team instead of just going out to play tennis. Last year, the team was given official club status. She
sees club sports like Benford does. They give a sense of belonging. “It doesn’t make it seem like there’s 28,000 (undergraduates) at this school,” she said. “You’re not a little fish in a big pond, so then it’s a little more manageable.” For many of those 700-plus club sport participants, the drive to compete, while not necessarily at a high level like the NCAA, is what draws them to a team. Many of the club sport teams are ranked in the top 25 in their governing bodies and leagues, and routinely compete for national championships. That doesn’t necessarily mean people have to be former highschool standouts to make it on the club team.
“The biggest thing is that our program takes individuals of all skill level,” Benford said. “And a lot of times they have people who’ve never played the sport at all.” The sport clubs have a recruitment fair from Aug. 31-Sept. 2 where interested students can get more information on clubs they might be interested in. From there, it’s up to the individual team to decide tryout dates or give more information. If club sports aren’t the right fit, people can sign up for intramural leagues in the fall for five different sports. Intramurals are more recreational, less competitive and have less of a time commitment than club sports.
WELCOME TO STATE 15
AUG. 19 - 25, 2015 • THE DAILY AZTEC EDITOR: KELLY HILLOCK • EDITOR@THEDAILYAZTEC.COM
#TALKTOPROFS
HOW TO TALK TO PROFESSORS ANNA WALEZKO STAFF WRITER Warning: Despite popular belief, not all professors will wear tweed blazers or be Ted Mosby. And no, they don’t bite. But talking to your professor can be a daunting task — after all, the fate of your grades lies in their hands.
DON’T: Make excuses.
They’ve probably heard it before. “My roommate used all of our printer ink for a Jackson Pollock-inspired project she’s doing, so I couldn’t print out my paper” or “I use my neighbor’s Wi-Fi and they moved out over the weekend” won’t work. Just be honest, don’t get into the lying habit now. Ask for a retake. Even if you bombed that test don’t ask to retake it. If the professor lets you retake it, they’d have to do the same for everybody. If they offer, it’s a different story . Wait until the last minute Procrastination is not your friend. You have the entire semester to talk to your professors, so if you suddenly start showing up to office hours the week before the final wanting to know
how to raise your grade, it isn’t going to look great on your part. Ask, “So what’s the answer?” Former San Diego State sociology instructor Lisa Riccardi said, “Know that professors want you to learn and are there to help you.” Professors aren’t going to give you the answer, because they want you to learn, not memorize sentences. “With this in mind, don’t expect ‘textbook’ answers,” Riccardi said, “professors want you to think critically and want you to figure out the answers.” Forget a pencil. Did you also forget your big-kid underpants?
DO:
Use the correct title when speaking to them. Some professors have a Ph.D. — address them as Dr. unless told otherwise. Many will make it clear what they want to be addressed as — take note of that! Former SDSU communications instructor Kevin Corcoran Jr. advised, “It’s always safest to call your teacher ‘professor’ because if they have earned the title, they really want it to be used.” Go to office hours.
CROSSWORDS
ACROSS 1 Hearth dust 4 Snapple’s __ Madness 9 Jet black 14 Shade of green 15 Exemplary 16 “Irma la __” 17 Flock member 18 Intimate 19 Trailing 20 Provence pronoun 21 Structures with many layers? 23 “My Antonia” novelist 25 To some degree 28 Situation before a two-run homer 29 “Barnaby Jones” star 32 Lilly of pharmaceuticals 33 Hardly talkative
34 Strange: Pref. 35 Take down __ 36 Like a shady boulevard ... and like this puzzle, in terms of its 12 border answers 39 Long-jawed fish 42 Order in the court 43 “Happy Pills” singer Jones 47 Game with Skip cards 48 Lavish affairs 49 Ambition 50 Ally in a TV courtroom 52 Payment for a return 53 Brunch cookware item 57 Like mil. volunteers 58 “MacGyver” actor Dana
Professors are paid to stay and sit in their office hours, regardless of your attendance. Be prepared with your questions and know what you want to accomplish so you can make the most of your time without wasting theirs. Do the readings before you go to office hours, because who knows, maybe you’ll be able to answer some of your own questions. Make sure you introduce yourself, and you can begin to set yourself apart from the large sea of students they see everyday in their large lectures. Be on time. I know it’s hard, because, well, you’ve got a foam mattress topper and a body pillow back in your dorm. But unless you’re violently ill or Kanye West just called and wants to meet up for lunch, try and make it to class. This is college, and with that comes new responsibility — mainly time management. Basically, if you want to stay up all night and watch “The Office” while eating Pringles, no one is going to stop you, but no one is going to drag you out of bed if you decide not to go to class either. Read the syllabus. And please — read it before asking a question. There’s a reason they made it. Print it out, have it with you and take note of the important dates so you can write them down.
Show interest. Remember, the professor is an expert in their field, so treat them as such. Ask them questions, and show interest. The professor will appreciate genuine curiosity. Be Authentic. “Before someone is a professor, they are a person,” Corcoran said. “Most professors I have met are more scared of how to talk to their students than the other way around. Remember that, just be confident, have a little fun with it, and most of all, be yourself.” Be open and honest with your professors. If you know of anything that may affect your attendance in class or your ability to do the readings, etc. tell the professor ahead of time. “If you are having personal struggles and challenges, consider letting your professor know,” Riccardi said. “They may be able to help you with resources and suggestions.” Above all, just be yourself. Corcoran’s number one piece of advice? “Ever heard of Bruno Mars? Well, he happens to think you’re pretty damn amazing just the way you are.”
CLASSIFIEDS
60 Get (a ship) ready to sail again 61 __-pitch softball 62 Second of 13 popes 63 “You beat me” 64 Gumshoe 65 Syrup type 66 __ Rapids, Iowa 67 C&W’s __ Ridge Boys DOWN 1 Jam fruit 2 Maritime route 3 Wheel-spinning rodent 4 Author of “Hawaii,” “Alaska,” and “Texas” 5 Psychologist Alfred 6 Lamp gas 7 Cut that may need stitches
8 Parkay, say 9 New Jersey township named for an inventor 10 Silly blunder 11 Walk faster than 12 PX shopper 13 Robin Hood’s bow wood 22 Try to tempt with 24 Party throwers 26 “Hip, hip, Jorge!” 27 Cookie fruit 29 Wield 30 Prove otherwise 31 Piques 35 Beautify 37 “The Seven Year Itch” actor Tom 38 Jeopardize 39 Trident, e.g. 40 Anti-apartheid org. 41 1987 title lawenforcing cyborg 44 Meets, as a challenge 45 “Anne of Green Gables” community 46 Poison drunk by Socrates 48 Spenser’s “The __ Queene” 51 Online letter 52 Mrs. Gorbachev 54 Old Norse explorer 55 Marketing leader? 56 Nudge 58 Common street name 59 Pastoral expanse
Help Wanted part time Disabled man need assistance with household chores and errands. CDL required. Jr or Sr. preferred.Mon - Fri’. 9:30 to 1:30.. $12/?Hr. Call Doug at (619) 297-0554 Email dmcqdale@cox.net
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
LOOKING FOR HOUSING?
Place an ad in the new and improved Daily Aztec Classifieds! Whether it’s a one, two or three-bedroom apartment, or just a room for rent in a house, you’ll be able to find your ideal living situation on
thedailyaztec.com/classifieds
16 BACKPAGE
AUG. 19 - 25, 2015 • THE DAILY AZTEC EDITOR: OLIVIA LITSEY • FEATURES@THEDAILYAZTEC.COM
#BLEEDBLACKANDRED
What it takes to be Aztecs CAMI BUCKMAN STAFF WRITER ____________________________________
S
o you think you can be an Aztec? Welcome to the beginning of your college career. Are you excited? I bet you’ve watched all of the college-genre movies, read all of the Buzzfeed articles and heard all of the anecdotes about “crazy college nights.” However, now you’re finally here, and the craziness is about to begin. So, are you ready? So you think you can proudly wear the colors of black and red? A sea of crimson is coming your way, and it’s too late to turn back now. Gone
When we are victorious, you will stand taller. So you think you can create relationships that will last a lifetime? You might find some of your best friends quickly, and some might take a while to come into your life. No matter when you may find your niche, know that you will surely find it. You will soon learn that professors are more than just teachers, resident advisers are more than just advisers, and roommates are more that just assigned living companions. So you think you can stay awake for hours into the early morning, hysterically laughing and enjoying the company of new friends?
THE WORLD IS YOUR CLASSROOM, AND YOU’RE ABOUT TO BE A STUDENT SITTING IN THE FRONT ROW. are the days where red paired with black was a coincidental pairing. Now, you bleed two colors. So you think you can have pride toward this university? Weakened voices from cheering and temporary deafness from the roar of a dedicated crowd will soon become a norm for you at sporting events. When we are defeated, you will stand proud.
JOIN THE MOVEMENT. facebook.com/dailyaztec
Your eyes will be fighting to stay open, but the moments you spend with friends are too sublime to end. Although, let this stand as a warning. You may have multiple sleepless nights per week. So you think you can handle the chaos during lunch hour? Keep your eyes peeled at all times because you never know what is headed your way. Be on the look out for bikers, skaters, golf carts, and worst of all, hungry students. So you think you can defend our name against all who seek to undermine us? A wise and noble philosopher once said, “They hate us cause they ain’t us.” Here at San Diego State, we make our haters our motivators. So you think you can embrace the never-ending sunshine? Whether you’re a Southern California native or completely new
#DASNAPSHOTS
to the west coast, there is something special about San Diego. There’s no need to worry, however. You will soon learn this for yourself. So you think you can expand your mind to places you didn’t even realize were possible to reach? Be prepared for multiple mindblowing lectures and conversations because they are surely headed your way. The world is your classroom, and you’re about to be a student sitting in the front row. So you think you can protect one another and lend support? There are more than 33,000 students that make up the campus of SDSU. That’s more than 33,000 unique personalities, aspirations, ideals and opinions. Even with the diversity on this campus, each and every individual shares one common trait: we protect and support our own. So you think you can handle the overwhelming amount of opportunity available at your fingertips? Get used to excelling and breaking barriers because soon you will not even be comparable to competition. We expect the best out of each and every individual here, and we expect nothing less than excellence from you. So you think you can be a part of a community bigger than its name, location, or reputation? SDSU is more than a source of education, a beacon of possibility, a source of identity and fulfillment or a starting point for adventure. Forget everything you have heard about college, and forget all of the advice people have given you. It’s time to make your own mistakes, and it’s time to make your own advice. It’s time to create your own college experience. So you think you can be an Aztec? Let’s find out.
SUDOKU
HOW TO PLAY: Complete the grid so each row, column and 3-by-3 box contains every digit 1 to 9. DIFFICULTY LEVEL:
2/4
CROSSWORDS, SUDOKU, AND HOROSCOPES COURTESY OF TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES INC., ©2015. GAME SOLUTIONS AVAILABLE ONLINE AT THEDAILYAZTEC.COM
HUNGRY TURTLES
Photo editor Megan Wood captured this shot of Professor Hurlbert feeding the turtles at the Scripps Pond over summer break.
PLEASE NOTE: The views expressed in this issue do not necessarily reflect those of The Daily Aztec. Express your concerns by emailing letters@thedailyaztec.com
arc AZTEC RECREATION Associated Students / SDSU
HOROSCOPE HAPPY BIRTHDAY (8/19/15) - This year gets especially profitable. Mix work with play. Add to savings (especially after 10/13). Take a new educational direction (after 10/27). Invest family funds for growth (after 3/8). Honest communication opens closed doors (after 3/23). Talk about love. HOW IT WORKS: 10 is good, 1 is bad. ARIES (March 21 - April 19) - Today is an 8 - Consider an upcoming obstacle. The right answer may not be logical. A crazy idea works. Use your intuition. Get help building your dream. Unexpected benefits, like beauty, money and love, surprise you with Venus trine Uranus. TAURUS (April 20 - May 20) - Today is a 9 - Compromise with your team for a creative breakthrough. Pool your resources. Stay flexible, and let intuition dictate the timing. Polish your presentation to make a good impression. Friends inspire and encourage you. GEMINI (May 21 - June 21) - Today is an 8 - Provide leadership, and visualize getting what you want. Accept a challenging assignment and prosper. Unexpected romance, gifts and beautiful moments materialize from thin air. Creative muses sing to you. CANCER (June 22 - July 22) - Today is a 7 - Determine what you want. Relax and the answer comes. Get enchanted by a new subject. An unexpected blessing rains down. Love strikes. Accept a gift. More study is required. Trust, but verify. Keep your eyes on the prize. LEO (July 23 - Aug. 22) - Today is an 8 - You’re especially charming now. Someone gets swept away. Romance colors your view. A new source of funding appears. Divert some to a holding tank. Unexpected expenses could also alter your plans. Friends help out. Feel the love. VIRGO (Aug. 23 - Sept. 22) - Today is a 7 - Don’t be hasty. Evaluate your partner’s suggestion. You could stir up trouble if careless. Anticipate some resistance. Someone’s reaction surprises you. Remain gracious under pressure. Get a second opinion, and follow your own good judgment. LIBRA (Sept. 23 - Oct. 22) - Today is a 9 - Get slow and meticulous at work to avoid breakage, mistakes or do-overs. Unexpected circumstances shift the action. Better technology increases profits. Romance enters your workplace. It’s easy to mix business with pleasure. Focus on the job first. SCORPIO (Oct. 23 - Nov. 21) - Today is a 7 - Take advantage of a lucky break to grab love when it appears. Investigate a fascinating attraction. Stay in communication to avoid scheduling mishaps. Learn and teach simultaneously. Remain open. SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22 - Dec. 21) - Today is a 7 - Friends want to help. Listen to suggestions about your private life politely. A separation could alter your plans. Work out a controversy or conflict to advance. Practice your game. Get family involved. Love is the answer. CAPRICORN (Dec. 22 - Jan. 19) - Today is a 7 - Listen and understand the situation before launching. Remain open to change. A new method could work. Air travel might get complicated. Manage a change in plans, and ensure that your team’s on board. AQUARIUS (Jan. 20 - Feb. 18) - Today is an 8 - Don’t overextend. Moderation is the rule today. Surprises, especially financially, could alter your plans. Review what you need. You may not have as much as you thought, or conversely, could discover a windfall. PISCES (Feb. 19 - March 20) - Today is a 7 - The competition’s getting fierce. Patiently follow your plan. Focus on design, style and concept. Confirm the perfect partnership. Remind people of their agreements. Good planning increases your holdings. Completion leads to new status.