The Hilltop by The Hilltop

Thursday, March 22, 2012 www.thehilltoponline.com

Vol. 95 No.44

The Student Voice of Howard University

est. 1924

Supporters of Gay Rights, Residents March Against Hate By Noelle Jones Metro Editor

Circulated Photo of Trayvon Martin Trayvon Martin, 17, was shot and killed near his home in Sanford, Fla. on Feb. 26. His alleged murderer has been identified as George Zimmerman, 28, who claims he shot the teen out of self defense.

HU Students Push for Justice for Slain Fla. Teen, Trayvon Martin By Kyleah Starling Contributing Writer

Slowly capturing national attention, the unfolding details of the racially-tinged shooting death of Trayvon Martin in Sanford, Fla., have spread an increased desire for racial justice throughout the campus of Howard University. “I encourage all Howard students to get involved,” said Daniel Cokes, Mr. Howard University. “We all need to be involved and unify our efforts so that we can channel to make student voice rather than student noise.” Neighborhood watch volunteer, George Zimmerman, 28, spotted 17-year-old Martin walking back to his father’s house from a convenience store, and placed a call to 911 claiming the teenager looked suspicious. Martin was unarmed, wearing a hoodie and carrying a bag of skittles and an Arizona Iced Tea. Ignoring the 911 operator’s

INSIDE Students to Africa

Howard University students and other college students are traveling to Rwanda to aid the health system. p.3

instructions not to follow the teen, Zimmerman approached Martin, and the confrontation ended with Zimmerman shooting the teen in the chest. He is now claiming that he shot Martin in self defense. Howard students have offered their support in various ways to see that justice is served in this case. Students and campus news outlets like HU Reaction have taken to Twitter to help keep students united in their efforts, providing links to background information on the case and details on upcoming rallies and events. Howard University Law students have traveled to Florida to extend their services to the Martin family. Senior business management major, Christopher Fredd Jr. said, “The brothers of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated are planning to battle this injustice through demonstrations and speaking with Florida Representatives.” Initially using social networks to

BIG K.R.I.T.

Rapper Big K.R.I.T. is coming to the District this weekned, are you a fan? p.4

voice their concerns, students have transferred their energy toward rallying together to not only raise awareness of the Martin’s death but to help bring justice to his family. Considering the shooting took place last month on Feb. 26 many have questioned why police have not arrested Zimmerman. “Unlike other cases that have come up this year, he wasn’t arrested or convicted,” said Krystal Leaphart, president of Howard University’s chapter of the NAACP. “There’s no justifiable reason for him to have been killed that way. We [HU NAACP] want to be a driving force behind changing laws and protecting our people in this nation.” The Howard chapter of the NAACP has started a chain letter encouraging people to add their signatures calling for Zimmerman’s arrest.

MARTIN cont. on p.2

Please Don’t ‘Holla’

Read up on anti-street harrassment week which brings awareness to cat calls and brutality. p.11

On Tuesday, as government officials discussed providing safer environments in schools and neighborhoods for the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender communities, D.C. residents marched through from Columbia Heights to Dupont Circle in silence, honoring LGBT victims of hate crimes. More than 600 people attended the rally that kicked off outside of the Columbia Heights IHOP, the location of the March 11 shooting of a man that was recently labeled as a hate crime. As they marched, the demonstrators stopped at sites of the other two recent attacks against LGBT individuals—all three apart of the wave of LGBT hate crimes to hit the District this past weekend. “Washington has the highest rate of LGBT Violence in the country. . . its been that way for a number of years now. The national average is around 13 percent and D.C. is over 60 percent,” said AJ

Singeltary, president of GlovDC, a nonprofit organization aimed at reducing violence against lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender individuals. Singeltary claimed that when the sun shines, and temperatures heat up—so does the violence. “We always see an increase in LGBT violence when the weather warms,” said Singeltary. “Why? It’s hard to predict. In areas like Columbia Heights and U Street when you have a community of different people coming together there are often abrasive interactions between people. Columbia Heights has the highest rate of crimes in D.C.” The day after the IHOP shooting, another gay man was robbed and heavily beaten at the intersections of Georgia Ave. and Irving Street. The last attack was immediately following near the Mount Olivet Road and West Virginia Avenue, where a transgendered woman was left unconscious after being beaten and bruised.

GAY cont. on p.2

Howard Welcomes NBCU

Photo by Terricka Johnson, Photo Editor

Check out photos from the recruiting event on p. 6

INDEX

CAMPUS.................... p. 3 LIFE & STYLE............. p. 11 OPINIONS............... p. 13 MECCANISMS.......... p. 14

WEATHER

Today: Sunny High 79 Low 59 Friday: Sunny High 82 Low 61 Saturday: Storms Possible High 70 Low 59

THE HILLTOP |THURSDAY MARCH 22, 2012

GAY continued from Front

The Hilltop Newspaper Maya Rhodan Editor-in-Chief Macy Freeman Chief Managing Editor Christina Downs Production Managing Editor Natalie Neilson Online Manager Jasmin Carnelus Campus Editor Noelle Jones Metro Editor Lauren McEwen Life & Style Editor Jordane Frazier Sports Editor Britney Wilson Opinions Editor Marquis Gibson Copy Chief Odochi Ibe Assistant Copy Chief Ayanna Alexander Copy Editor Angelique Gayle Copy Editor Candace Johnson Copy Editor Jarondakie Patrick Copy Editor Khalea Underwood Copy Editor Terricka Johnson Photo Editor

Rachael Walton

Business Manager Chasmin Anthony Asst. Business Manager Branden Hampton Ext. Office Manager Monique Marshall Int. Office Manager Cali Wilder Advertising Layout Designer

Recent reports by WTOP and NBC state that the woman claimed she was targeted because she was transgendered however, police do not have enough evidence to label it specifically as a hate crime. In a story released by WTOP reporters spoke to Police Chief Cathy Lanier and other police officials who did not show much favor or sympathy: “ Members of the trans community are responsible for avoiding situations where they might be harmed,’” said the D.C. Trans Coalition in a statement. “This kind of blatant victim blaming demonstrates deep misunderstanding of the pervasive anti-trans discrimination found throughout our city.” Howard University students felt strongly about the incident and although the situation was unfortunate, many felt that it brought attention to an issue that is important and oftentimes overlooked. “Transgender and gender-queer individuals continue to be misunderstood and that ignorance has led

to this violence,” said Ollie Montgomery, a senior print journalism major. “ I hope that the aftermath of this march and these heinous acts send messages of acceptance to those who are not in the LGBT community, because preaching to the choir negates the purpose of the event.” GlovDC, along with other human rights and LGBT rights organizations, will continue to host forums and volunteer to bring awareness and stop violence against the LGBT community. GlovDC provides victim assistance, training programs for police officers, detectives, and attorney’s who prosecute cases on LGBT issues in courts. They also provide street patrol along with countless community outreach projects. “Anyone who wants to get involved can help out,” Singeltary said. “Whether it’s by working with the police and detectives or volunteering as counselors anyone who wants to get involved can help reduce violence in D.C.”

MARTIN continued from Front The group has also been working with other organizations on Howard’s campus and in the D.C. area to organize several events including a day to distribute flyers and posters and a day of community awareness. Student Activities will be hosting a vigil today at the flagpole at 7p.m. All students are encouraged to join the movement, bringing Arizona Iced Tea, skittles or wearing a hoodie.

Howard alumnus, Melech Thomas said, “I am so very proud of my alma mater. I spent five years of my life trying to sow seeds of activism and change on campus and to see such a quick and unified reaction really warms my heart.” For more information regarding how Howard University is getting involved with the Trayvon Martin case follow @HUAmISuspicious or email JusticeforTrayvonMartin@ gmail.com.

How are you standing up for Trayvon Martin? Let us know via twitter. Tweet us with comments, pictures and words of empowerment @TheHilltop

The Hilltop encourages its readers to share their opinions with the newspaper through letters to the editor or perspectives. All letters should include a complete address and telephone number and should be sent electronically to feedback@thehilltoponline.com.

All inquiries for advertisements should be sent directly to The Hilltop Business office at: The Hilltop 2251 Sherman Avenue NW Washington, DC 20001 campusadvertising@thehilltoponline. com

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Join Mr. Howard-Daniel Cokes, NAACP Howard Chapter, and the Howard University Student Association in a vigil commemorating the life of Trayvon Martin. Tonight at 7pm at the flagpole

Students are being asked to bring a bag of skittles, an Arizona iced tea, or wear a black hoodie to participate in the theme of the vigil; Am I Suspicious? Martin was wearing a hood over his head which roused suspicion in his alleged murderer George Zimmerman. University-wide participation is necessary to let the world know that Howard University is outraged by the untimely and unjustifable death of Treyvon Martin.

Campus

THE HILLTOP |THURSDAY MARCH 22, 2012

Jasmin Carnelus, Campus Editor

campus@thehilltoponline.com

NBCU Takes Over HU, Offers Job Opportunities to Students

By Taylor-Rae Collins-Headley Contributing Writer NBCUniversal, Comcast, and NBC Washington took over HU on March 21 with a full day of events that included panels, giveaways, and recruiting opportunities for internships and jobs. The day started with recruiter meetings in the Hilltop Lounge. Representatives from NBCUniversal, Comcast, and NBC Washington met with students for one-on-one interviews about open positions for internships and jobs. Students dressed in their business attire and came fully prepared with résumés and business cards to try and land a job with the companies. The next event was Comcast NBCUniversal On the Yard. NBCU and Comcast set up booths outside on Blackburn Center and offered giveaways and information to students about how they can get involved. The Lunchtime Panel was the biggest event. It was held in the West Ballroom and the room was filled with students, faculty members, and professionals from the industry. Refreshments were provided and students got the chance to learn about the different opportunities available at NBCU such as sales and marketing, journalism, digital content production, finance and management, and technology and business development. The panel included Tina Waters, senior vice president of human performance and national customer operations for Comcast Cable Communications, Robert Foothorap, senior

vice president of domestic and international television advertising sales for CNBC, Kristen Welker, an NBC news correspondent, Ken Strickland, deputy bureau chief of NBC News Washington, Jackie Bradford, president and general manager of NBC4 Washington, Barbara L. Gee, vice president of ecommerce performance optimization for Comcast Cable, and Suzanne De Passe, co-chairman of De Passe Jones Entertainment Group. “The lessons the speakers gave about how to break into the industry and how hard it is were very valuable to me. It reinforced the need for persistence and passion.” Shaquille Brewster, sophomore broadcast journalism major, said. The last daytime events were intimate roundtable panels that gave students the opportunity for a personal Q & A session with NBCU. Students sat in a circle and got to have more detailed input into discussion. Creating Your Own Path was a panel discussion with Barion L. Grant, creator of thegrio. com, an African-American news website that launched in June of 2009. They are currently the number one black news website and are regularly featured as contributors on NBC’s shows. During the panel, Grant spoke about how he produced his film “Meeting David Wilson”. The film was about a young African-American man named David Wilson who, after tracing his family lineage back to slavery and the plantation where they lived, discovered that a descendant of the slave owner’s family still living on the land was also named

Photo by Terricka Johnson, Photo Editor Barbara Gee, Vice-President of E-Commerce and Mover Sales at Comcast shares her experiences starting out in the communications and sales industry. NBC Universal spent the day in the Armor J. Blackburn Center talking to students about job opportunities and offering advice on how to make it in the news and entertainment industry.

David Wilson. The film was picked up by NBC and was first screened at Howard University. The format of the panel changed after he was finished speaking and he asked the students

Howard Joins Medical Coalition to Spread Health Awareness in Rwanda By Taylor-Rae Collins-Headley Contributing Writer Howard University has joined the University of Maryland, the University of Texas, New York University, Duke University and the University of Illinois at Chicago in a healthcare initiative that will send experienced healthcare professionals to Rwanda. Originating from the Clinton Health Initiative, the purpose of the program is to train nurses, clinicians, and midwives in Rwanda to provide the proper care that patients need. Each university may send up to seven people for the program. Candidates recruited by the universities will spend between one and seven years in the country of Rwanda teaching at nursing schools and providing clinical training. Howard University is currently the only HBCU involved in the program. Students said that is important because they are giving back to people who look like them. “It’s pivotal for Howard, as one of the most storied black institutions, to have a face and stake in

helping Africans better themselves and the quality of life for their countryman,” said Patrick Jones, a junior audio production major. To qualify for the program, candidates should have international experience such as with Doctors without Borders or the Peace Corps; a post-undergraduate degree such as a master’s or doctorate degree and extensive experience as a healthcare provider. The Howard University Division of Nursing in the College of Nursing and Allied Health Sciences is spearheading Howard’s end of the program. Dr. Mary Hill, dean of the College of Nursing and Allied Health, traveled to Rwanda along with delegates from the other universities involved to meet with the Rwandan Ministry of Health and plan the best way to get the program up and running. The University of Maryland got involved with the program through an invitation that Dr. Barbara Smith, professor and head of University of Maryland School of Nursing’s part in the Rwanda Human Resources Health Program, received from the Clinton Foundation. Prior to this, they set up HIV

clinics in Rwanda as a part of the UMD President’s emergency plan for AIDS relief. “I spoke to the Global Health Director and our dean and they decided that [the program] would be something of benefit to Maryland and to the folks in Rwanda,” Smith said. The University of Maryland has a list of potential candidates for the program but until it is concrete, those names will not been released. They will try to send one educator and seven clinical mentors for the first year of the program. “Clinical mentors are instructors who will supervise students at the hospitals and community clinics and work with a Rwandan partner to help increase their skills,” Smith said. The first group of students will leave for Rwanda on Aug. 3, 2012. As of now, the program is only open to health professionals with a lot of field experience, but it is possible that students may be able to go in the future as an opportunity to learn, research and share their knowledge.

THE HILLTOP

present to tell him a little about what we are involved with and how we can create our own path from that. Some of the students had their own blogs, some were aspiring film makers, some were filming webseries, and others asked about how

to branch out in their internships. “I’m very impressed with the way that the students are already thinking about their careers,” Barion L. Grant said. “A lot of the questions you’re asking yourselves

Panel Discusses Affect of Hair on Black Female Self Image By Angelica Dennis Contributing Writer This past Monday, in the auditorium in the School of Social Work, image activist Michaela Angela Davis and founder of Carol’s Daughter Lisa Price sat down to converse with Howard students. The conversation focused mostly on hair and how it affects the self images of women, particularly African-American women. Maya Williams, freshman business major, said “The event was intimate. Though there weren’t many women there, we got to hear everyone’s opinions and comments about African-American women’s hair vs. their power.” Michaela Angela Davis opened the discussion about how the texture of the hair of AfricanAmerican women can be looked at as unattractive and unacceptable in a professional setting and this can consequently lead to a poor self image. Shueanna Harrinandan, fresh-

man political science major, said “There is a great need to reiterate the importance of self love especially in young black girls because they have constantly been bombarded with beauty images shown in the media that make them loose sight of what is really important which is loving themselves, even the flaws.” In addition to the insightful conversation about building a positive self image, Lisa Price informed the crowd about some new things Carol’s Daughter is creating. Carol’s Daughter just recently launched their new product, Chocolat, a straightening kit for the natural hair girl who wants the straight look without a chemical change and for the relaxed hair girl who wants a smoother look. The company will also soon launch a transitioning kit for the women transitioning from relaxed hair to their natural texture. Attendees felt that the event was truly educational as well as inspirational.

THE HILLTOP |THURSDAY MARCH 22, 2012

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Metro

THE HILLTOP | THURSDAY MARCH 22, 2012

Noelle Jones, Metro Editor

metro@thehilltoponline.com

Big Krit Performing at Fillmore Friday by Brittany T. Epps Staff Writer

Photo by Greg Skidmore, Wikimedia Commons Rick Santorum stands next to Romney as one of the leading GOP Candidates .

On Friday, March 23, the illuminated walls of The Fillmore Silver Spring shall house authentic and unadulterated hip-hop music. Those partial to fairy tale raps with nonsense lyrics are bound to drown in this arena. Underground Kingz, the Affiliates presented benefit concert hosted by Jae Murphy and with DJ Alizay on the wheels of steel will feature performances from artists such as Big K.R.I.T., Smoke DZA, Fat Trel, Phil Ade, Marlee D, and Howard University rapper, Emex. “I’m anticipating the Underground Kings Benefit Concert because it gives me a chance to host a real showcase of underground artists;” said Jae Murphy, Howard senior and official host of the concert, “people who aren’t necessarily mainstream but reach mainstream audiences. It also gives me a chance to showcase my talents outside of Howard. Some call me the “Voice

of Howard,” but my days at Howard are numbered, and here people can really witness my talents outside of the university scope.” Though the entire lineup is sure to bring out masses of DMV hip hops lovers, Mr. Justin Scott, the Meridian, Mississippi musician and record producer, who goes by the moniker of Big K.R.I.T is the most anticipated artist of the night. With his country vibrations, soulful samples and sincere lyrics, Big K.R.I.T feeds the musical hunger of those nostalgic of Southern hip-hop acts like Outkast and Bun B. The “King Remembered in Time” stands erect in an industry hazed with swag rappers. He gives fans himself, with no filter. And his efforts appear to be appreciated. His 2010 mixtape K.R.I.T. Was Here garnered the artist critical acclaim and a spot on Def Jam’s roster. His highly anticipated March 2011 mixtape, Return of 4eva, led him to a feature in XXL’s Freshmen 2011 list alongside Diggy Simmons,

Kendrick Lamar, and Yelawolf. With the 2012 release of his 4eva and a Day EP and the energized performances he has given on tour with artists such as Curren$y and Wiz Khalifa, the people are ready for an album; and an album is what they shall receive. The country boy is currently putting the finishing touch on his major label debut, Live From the Underground, which is scheduled for a June release. “Like everyone, I’m primarily anticipating K.R.I.T.,” said Michael Hamilton, senior Telecommunications Management major and music enthusiast. “However as for the underground lineup, I’m really hype to see EMEX’s performance. He’s a sophomore at Howard and his flow is pretty dope. It’s a great opportunity for him to be on the same stage as Big K.R.I.T.” Proceeds from the benefit concert will go to the African Women’s Cancer Association. “It’s going to be one hell of of a show,” says Murphy.

Meet the Candidates: Rick Santorum by Caryn Freeman Contributing Writer

Rick Santorum, a 16-year veteran of Congress, stands as one of four remaining candidates for the Republican nomination for President. His political career began in Washington over twenty years ago. Born May 10, 1958, in Winchester, Virginia, the second of three children and raised by his father an immigrant from Italy. In 1990, Rick Santorum at 32 ran for the United States House of Representatives from Pennsylvania’s 18th congressional district. Santorum surprised many in Washington most of all the seven-term Democratic incumbent Doug Walgren, when he won the seat. After arriving on the Hill he built a reputation as one of the more conservative Republicans in congress. Santorum became part of what was called the “Gang of Seven” a group of conservative GOP lawmakers that fiercely attacked Democratic corruption in congress highlighting the House Banking scandal and the Congressional Post Office scandal of the 90s. The Congressional Post Office scandal led to the discovery of corruption among high-ranking post office officials and Democratic members of Congress. The inves-

tigation revealed a conspiracy of embezzlement and money laundering which eventually led to the conviction of a Democratic member of Congress who was sentenced to 18 months in prison. Santorum ran for the United Sates Senate in 1994 and won again by ousting another Democratic incumbent. He held his eat in the Senate for two terms before losing in 2006 when Democrats gained control of both the House a Senate. The former Senator is also an accomplished author writing the New York Times Best Seller “It Takes a Family.” In 2011 he announced his campaign for presidency and by all accounts has run a successful campaign maintaining a close second to front runner Mitt Romney. Santorum has won 263 delegates with primary wins in Minnesota, Mississippi, and Alabama. He’s picked up delegates in other primaries by running a strong campaign and maintaining a narrow margin between himself and front runner Mitt Romney who holds 563 delegates. With 375 Delegates up in several primaries contests in the next 30 days Santorum is still widely considered a possible Republican nominee in this year’s battle for the White House.

Information Complied from: http://www.biography.com/people/rick-santorum-20688005 http://www.ricksantorum.com/why-rick

This Weekend Around D.C.

Going somewhere cool around town this weekend? Twitpic a picture of your outing to @TheHilltop! We’d love to see what your’e doing! THE HILLTOP

Oxygen’s Love Games Casting Call Saturday, March 24th. @ Club Heaven and Hell’ 2327 18th Street NW 11-6pm

Wizards vs. Hawks Saturday, March 24th @ The Verizon Center 7pm

2nd Annual Cycling and Bike Expo Sunday, March 25th @ Gerogetown Waterfront 10-2pm

THE HILLTOP |THURSDAY MARCH 22, 2012

Howard University Welcomes NBC Universal to Blackburn Check out photos from NBC @HU on-campus recruiting event which occurred on Wednesday afternoon. The event was comprised of panels, round table discussions and on-site interviews with recruiters.

Photos by Terricka Johnson, Photo Editor

Photo by Terricka Johnson, Photo Editor Ralph Nader, Talent Acquisition for NBC Universal, discusses breaking into the business of communications.

Photo by Terricka Johnson, Photo Editor Student Kiah McBride completes her interview with Iman Hobbs. Interviews were held from 10a.m. to noon.

Photo by Terricka Johnson, Photo Editor Barion Grant, co-founder of NBC’s The Grio, explains how The Grio began with the film “Meeting David Wilson”

Photo by Terricka Johnson, Photo Editor Suzanne De Passe expounds on the time she first spent working with Motown Records. White House Correspondent Kristen Welker served as the moderator for the panel.

Photo by Terricka Johnson, Photo Editor Tina Waters, a senior VP at Comcast Cable Communications, discusses how her first experiences in the industry turned her into a leader.

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Life&Style

Lauren McEwen, Life & Style Editor

‘Hey, Gorgeous?’ International Anti-Street Harassment Week Addresses Sidewalk Catcalls and Police Brutality by Jordan Duckens Contributing Writer The District along with other U.S. cities and countries around the world are recognizing the first annual Anti-Street Harassment week, which began on March 18 and will end March 24. . In order to raise awareness about this global issue, Holly Kearl, founder of Anti-Street Harassment Day, created a website called Stop Street Harassment in 2008. The blog provides visitors with information and statistics about street harassment as well as testimonials from street harassment victims. She never imagined the website would transform into a weeklong event dedicated to street harassment awareness. “My first month of blogging, I only had 80 page views and had to beg people to share testimonials,” Kearl said. “In the summer of 2009, I started blogging more and once I got my book contract it helped make me a more reputable source.” Kearl did extensive research on the issue for her master’s thesis at George Washington University and went on to publish a book titled Stop Street Harassment: Making Public Places Safe and Welcoming for Women. The first annual Anti-Street Harassment Day was celebrated March 20 of last year. Because of the amount of participation from over 2,000 people in at least 13 countries, the day was expanded into an entire week this year. Street harassment can range from catcalls or sexual comments to more extreme cases like groping, stalking and even assault. And harassment is not solely specific to women. Last week on the corner of

What Can You Catch from SEX?

Sexual Health Series

Contributing Writer

Photo Courtesy of Meet Us on the Street Men and women joined together to speak out against street harassment.

Georgia Avenue and Irving Street Northwest, three men followed a 29- year-old gay man and yelled derogatory slurs as he was walking. The victim’s partner, Rodney Shaffer, told the Washington Blade that the men dragged the victim down the street and left him semi-conscious on the ground. Kearl wants to bring attention to situations like this; she said it’s so common it is not seen as a problem. “Recent academic and government studies showed that 80 to 100 percent of women surveyed in Indianapolis, the California Bay Area, Yemen, India, Egypt and Canada experienced street harassment,” Kearl said during a New York City Council hearing about street harassment in 2010. Morgan Lewis, a sophomore legal communications major, says she has had problems with street harassment back home in Long Island, NY as well as D.C. “I’ve been followed for blocks,” she said. “I’ve heard stories about girls who have been shot at because

they would not turn around and speak to a man trying to talk to them.” Clinton Cuffee, a senior physical therapy major, thinks most times men don’t intend to harass. But that they just don’t know any better and even believe their actions may draw a positive response from a woman. “They might think it’s funny, they might be drunk, they might be looking to have a good time and say some crazy things,” Cuffee said. “That’s just how some men interact with women, so to some it may seem crazy, but for them that’s just how they interact with females.” Ultimately, Kearl’s goal for the week is to bring attention to what she believes is a human rights issue. She also wants to reach people and let them know they aren’t alone in their experiences. The final event for Anti-Street Harassment will take place this Saturday with a Speak Out to End Street Harassment. For more information, visit www. meetusonthestreet.org.

New Site Tosses Out Traditional Internship Applications, Adds Video Resumes That anxious feeling in the air can only mean two things, the school year is finally coming to a close and intern season is rapidly approaching. There are plenty of students who have optimistic goals to work for their dream company this summer, but have no idea how to make it come true. Thankfully advisors, networking and sites like Intern Sushi are here to help. Intern sushi is a website that defines itself as “a new way to find, apply and manage internships in the hardest-to-break-into industries.” It offers a new multimedia aspect for students to sell themselves to companies with a more genuine flare.

lifeandstyle@thehilltoponline.com

Breaking down the sex-related infections/diseases that you may not fully understand. High school sex ed doesn’t cover it all... Compiled by Ashley Dixon,

For more information, visit www.meetusonthestreet.org.

by Kylee Coney Staff Writer

Traditional documented resumes are cast aside and people get the chance to upload video resumes so companies can see and hear about student’s previous background experience as well as get a peek at their personality and speech capabilities. Students can also create an online profile that helps them find internships geared towards their interests. There are several majors to choose from including film, sports, music, fashion, web, publishing, theatre and art are some of the subjects listed to be chosen from. Intern Sushi partners with over 1,000 companies to give students an opportunity to be seen by jobs seeking interns. Known industries like Lionsgate Entertainment, Warner Music Group and FunnyorDie.

com are a few examples of the companies looking to hire qualified students this summer. Internships are a sure way to jumpstart a career and help determine the path one will take post-graduation. Other sites that can be useful in your internship search are...

Intern Queen FastWeb LinkedIn Craigslist MediaBistro Internsearch.com Ed2010

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Bacterial Vaginitis (BV) Bacterial Vaginitis is common in women of childbearing age; yet, anyone can contract it. BV is an overgrowth of bacteria found in a woman’s vagina. Although every woman has a certain amount of healthy bacteria inside of her, BV appears when there is an increase of harmful bacteria. It is usually accompanied by an abnormal vaginal discharge, odor, pain and itching. While all causes are still unknown, researchers have said douching and new and multiple sex partners increase women’s risk. Sometimes BV can clear up without treatment. If it does not, recommended antibiotics are metronidazole or clindamycin. Genital Human Papillomavirus (HPV) According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, HPV is the most common sexually transmitted infection. In most cases, symptoms are not shown. A person can have HPV for an extensive amount of time and not be aware of it. The virus can easily be passed between same-sex and straight partners; it can be contacted through vaginal, anal and oral sex, in addition to genital to genital contact. Genital warts and cervical cancer are HPV-related issues. “Each year, about 12,000 women get cervical cancer in the U.S. Almost all of these cancers are HPV-associated” the CDC has said. Currently, there is no treatment for the virus; however, there are vaccines men and women can take to the prevent contracting or transmitting the virus. Chlamydia Chlamydia symptoms are rare appearing in one out of four men and in 30 percent of women. However, without treatment it can lead to serious health problems. Chlamydia can be transmitted during vaginal, anal or oral sex and during childbirth. The more partners an individual has, the higher their risk of becoming infected. For women, Chlamydia attacks the cervix and urethra first. If signs are visible, vaginal discharge and burning may occur. Men may have the discharge come from their penis and experience the burning sensation while urinating. Symptoms can be found in the rectum and mouth. If Chlamydia goes untreated, women can suffer from reproductive problems. Other long-term consequences include: pelvic inflammatory disease; increased risk of HIV; and potentially fatal ectopic pregnancy. It can be cured by the antibiotics, azithromycin and doxycycline. Syphilis The CDC estimates that cases of syphilis have risen 36 percent in four years. Its reported cause is the bacterium treponema pallidum. A sore caused by syphilis is likely to appear on external genital and vaginal areas. It can also be found on the lips and mouth. An individual can become infected by direct contact. Although symptoms may not occur, if not treated a person can be put at risk for greater complications. The disease goes through stages. The initials stage begins with one or more sores, which can be emerge between 10-90 days. If proper treatment is not given, the second stage begins with a rough, reddish brown rash on the hands and feet. It then has the ability to go into a latent stage where all signs and symptoms disappear; this hidden stage can last for years. The infection begins to attack internal organs, which can lead to death. Harmful stages of syphilis can be avoided if the person gets treated immediately. An antibiotic can easily cure syphilis. Gonorrhea Gonorrhea is caused by a bacterium that develops in moist, warm areas of the reproductive tract. The disease can infect any person that is sexually active. According to the CDC, “In the United States, the highest reported rates of infection are among sexually active teenagers, young adults, and African Americans.” It can be passed through direct contact with the penis, vagina, mouth or anus. Most persons who are infected experience mild or no symptoms; however, there are long-term effects for those who go untreated. For women, gonorrhea can be mistaken for a bladder or vaginal infection because of the similarity of signs. In men, gonorrhea can cause epididymitis and in women, it is a common cause of pelvic inflammatory disease. Antibiotics are prescribed to treat gonorrhea. Although it removes the infection, it cannot cure permanent damage.

Sports

THE HILLTOP |THURSDAY MARCH 22, 2012

Jordane Frazier, Sports Editor

sports@thehilltoponline.com

Former Bison, Tracy White Re-Signs With New England Patriots by Melanie Clarke Contributing Writer

Good guys finish first. Or at least as Conference Champions. That’s what Howard University football alum, Tracy White proved when he took the field earlier in Indianapolis this year to start for the New England Patriots in Super Bowl XLVI. After nine seasons as a pro ball player, White had made it to the biggest show of the big time. His years of hard work had landed him a spot on one of the most successful teams in American football history, and his name was on the starting lineup. “I think Tracy brings a lot to the football team...He’s a great professional, works hard, studies, know his job, spends a lot of time at it. It’s important to him,” said Bill Belichick, Head Coach of the New England Patriots, White’s current team. “[He’s] totally respected by everybody in the program. [He] does everything right.” The Patriots showed that respect by re-signing White to a one-year contract March 14 valued at nearly $1M, with $300,000 guaranteed. White, a South Carolina native, left the halls of Howard University just nine years prior, as the most heavily recruited football player ever to attend the school. He started each of the 44 games played during his college career, leading the team in tackles, and, with 500 to his credit, became the school’s all-time leader. He threw down 22 sacks,

e Week h t f o n o s i B

by Jordane Frazier Sports Editor In just the first few games of her collegiate career freshman, biology major, Talia Johnson has excelled as a member of the Howard University tennis team. This past weekend the Kalamazoo, MI native won a singles match, 8-0 to help lead her Lady Bison to a conference victory over the Coppin State Eagles. The lady bison team now has a record of 4-3 overall since they started their season back in October with a win against Villanova at the Hampton Roads Invitational in Newport News, Va. “It wasn’t very difficult,” Johnson said in regards to her 8-0 defeat against Coppin State. “It was probably one of the easiest games of the season so far.” Johnson began playing tennis at the age of 10 when tennis lessons became available in her hometown. Back in Michigan, after discov-

Courtesy of the New England Patriots Tracy White, former Bison linebacker, re-signed with the New England Patriots for a third season, ninth season overall.

grabbed six interceptions, and was named Black College Defensive Player of the year as a junior. He was selected three times as an All-MEAC player, and was twice a finalist for the Buck Buchanan Award for defensive players in Division I-AA. Almost as interesting is how White came to play for Howard. While a junior in high school in his hometown of St. Stephens, South Carolina, White had no offers for scholarships and few options for college, so he went to a military office and decided to enlist in the Army. Not long after his decision, a

recruiter called his house, and with Tracy not home, spoke to his mother who was completely unaware of his plan at the time. She asked him to wait a little longer. White was soon scouted by some schools in the South offering partial scholarships, and then Howard University with an offer for a full ride to a Division I-AA school, where he could play football while he got his college education. He became a Bison, and the rest is history. White became the most heavily scouted football player in Bison history. According to Sports Information Director, Ed Hill at the time, every NFL team came to

Howard to check him out at least two or more times. As a senior at Howard, White prepared for the combine, where players are scouted by NFL teams, as he did for all games. His lateral moves across the field served as one of his outstanding characteristics, and his speed impressed his professional coaches as much as those who first saw him in high school. White went on to play for four NFL teams before joining the Patriots; the Seattle Seahawks, the Jacksonville Jaguars, the Green bay Packers, and the Philadelphia Eagles. After two seasons with the Eagles, White shattered his shoulder and despite his hard work in the offseason, White did not return to the team. A short time later while White took his children, Chyna, 7 and Jalen, 6 out for the day, he got a call from New England. “I was excited I got picked up, but I was like...this guy [Head Coach Bill Belichick] knows everything. It was going to be rough.” But White was impressed by the “geniuses” walking around the coaching staff there. “I’ve learned more in New England than I’ve learned on all the [other] teams combined.” Matt Patricia, the Defensive Coordinator is dubbed a rocket scientist, because of his strategy and his degree in aeronautical engineering. Director of Player Personnel Nick Caserio commented “ He’s been a pro since he’s arrived here. We’re happy to have him on the team and glad he’s here.”

In his first season there, White started every game, and assisted on 5 tackles. In his second season, he started 15 games, recording 16 tackles and 10 assists. “The first couple of games, I’m studying like I’m starting every game.” White was anxious playing with Belichick on the sidelines, and the smartest team he’s known yet. But his work ethic is how he earned his way onto the Super Bowl roster. “The first week was normal practice,” he said. Until one of the coaches informed him he might start. “I was like, I’m going to get this, I’m not making [any] mistakes. I’m going to be perfect.” White studied the whole night and half of the next day. “I was like, ‘don’t give me the opportunity. I’m going to take it.” White is also no stranger to giving back and sharing his success. Early on, he gave back to his high school. Timberland High School Athletic Director Art Craig, who never coached Tracy, or even met him before 2001, saw this athletic guy come into his weight room to work out. After a few visits he recalls, “He came in and he said coach I have something for you and he wrote me a check.” Though he didn’t feel like it was much, it was a large gift for a struggling program. “I wish I had gotten to coach him. He’s a wonderful young man. I’m impressed... He’s stayed true to his values.”

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Freshman, Talia Johnson of Women’s Tennis ering her interest in tennis, Johnson attended Northern High School where she began to display overall athleticism. She became a member of the tennis, softball, cheerleading and track & field team within her four years in high school. Johnson found inspiration to keep working toward building her tennis skills in her personal tennis coach, Melvin Bates. Bates coached Johnson for two years during her high school career. “He taught himself to play tennis and so he never really had anyone to help him out,” Johnson said. “He did everything himself. He works really hard to prepare by running marathons, so he got me into really great shape. “ In her senior year, Johnson was crowned as a state tennis champion. She was also invited twice during her high school career to the Super -National Tennis Tournament where the top 200 high school level tennis players are chosen to travel to either California or Arizona to compete against each other. ”My parents made me choose one,” Johnson said laughing when

Photo Courtesy of Talia Johnson Freshman biology major, Talia Johnson aids her team in their conference win over Coppin State last weekend.

asked why she chose to pursue tennis in college as oppose to all the other sports she excelled in. “They were tired of paying for everything.” The Howard University women’s tennis program proves to

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be benefiting from Johnson’s ultimate choice to play tennis and the coaches and players alike welcome her with enthusiasm. “Talia has evolved as an elite athlete,” Johnson’s teammate junior, sports medicine major, Brittney Morgan said. “She always works hard. She has a desirable attitude and always does more than what is asked of her.” This time last year when Johnson was making final decisions on the university she would attend, she says she chose Howard over other institutions because of the academic prestige. “I picked Howard originally for its academics,” Johnson said. “Everything along those lines has exceeded my expectations.” Johnson said she has big plans for her and her teammates sucess at Howard. ”We are all very talented and we’ve been at a really high level, “ Johnson said. “It’s just a matter of figuring out how to keep that high level in a very different environment than what we’re used to.” In the past two years the Lady Bison team has lost in the finals

to South Carolina State University. Johnson said she wants to see her team win all matches in the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference tournament. “It would have to come from a lot of hard work from the athletes because in terms of resources, it’s probably not going to be there but it’s possible to do well,” Johnson said. The lady bison have a conference home game matchup against Morgan State University on Saturday, March 24. Johnson said she doesn’t have anything special that she does to prepare and that her main focus is getting accustomed to her competition. “I’m just going to keep practicing,” she said. “I don’t even know half of these teams, so I’m just getting familiar.” The freshman has high hopes for herself and her team. The success she accomplished this season is only the beginning. “I’m not sure I’ve had my biggest accomplishment yet,” Johnson said. “I’m just getting acclimated.”

THE HILLTOP |THURSDAY MARCH 22. 2012

Opinions

Snap, Crackle, Pop: You Thought It, I Said It

Britney Wilson, Opinions Editor

opinions@thehilltoponline.com

Made for TV

by George Chapman Jr. Columnist

Monday night, in the wake of slowly budding national outrage surrounding the murder of Trayvon Martin, I looked to my Twitter timeline expecting to see my fellow Bison up-in-arms, prepared to combat this injustice. Instead, aside from a trickle of Trayvon tweets from the usual campus foot soldiers, I read tweets about Evelyn’s outburst, LaLa Anthony’s dancing like a stripper, and “yessssss June Ambrose.” Then I started thinking. What do the television series, reality shows, and celebrities that we all support by watching and tweeting say about us as a people, a culture, and a generation? Does our obsession with the rift between Evelyn and Jennifer mean that we care more about their issues than we do about what’s happened to our little brother in Florida?--maybe not. However, it could possibly suggest that while black scholars, pundits, leaders, and artists alike criticize and complain about the way we are portrayed in media and the arts; our generation actually backs and supports these images. So I wonder: have we come to a place where we care more about being entertained than do about being taught?

Part of me wonders how we even got to a place where we have to choose between entertainment and education. What happened to television that did both? I remember an episode of The Fresh Prince where Will was pulled over by the police and had to educate a shocked Carlton about “driving while black.” It was an episode that directly reflected a topic that consistently haunts our society. It had such an impact and was so bold. Most importantly, it shed a light on an aspect of the black experience that the media rarely touches. Likewise, Family Matters, The Cosby Show, Living Single, and countless other sitcoms accurately entertained while teaching valuable lessons, all the while inviting America into the homes of people they hardly ever cared to visit. Somehow I doubt we’ll see an episode of Reed Between the Lines that deals with their teenage son’s dangers of “walking while black” in honor of Trayvon. What shows do we have now that could even tackle such an issue? It certainly isn’t the hundreds of sitcoms that suggest that black women can’t get along or the blockbuster hits that suggest my grandmother smokes weed and carries a gun-and how could I forget, the everpresent black man starring in the roles as the athlete, the rapper, and down-low- brother. It seems that despite the advances that we are supposed to be making as a society, black representation on camera has actually gotten worse, and unfortunately, our generational focus seems to both support and reflect that fact. George Chapman Jr. is a senior broadcast journalism major from Brooklyn, N.Y.

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Taylor Hill, Cartoonist

You Are What You Tweet STAFF EDITORIAL

The recent conviction of former Rutgers student Dharun Ravi has set a precedent for the prosecution of hate crimes in the digital era that has important implications for young people, particularly as it pertains to the use of social media. Ravi, who used a webcam to videotape the actions of his homosexual roommate, Tyler Clementi, and tweeted about Tyler “making out with a dude” was convicted of bias intimidation and invasion of privacy, among other things, for the actions that ultimately led to Clementi ending his life by jumping off of the George Washington Bridge in 2010. A New York Times article that analyzes the possible effects of the guilty verdict against Ravi suggests that the outcome may mean an end to the “jerky kid” defense, which in turn may mean that youth and young adults may be more likely to be held accountable for the things that we say and do in the technological world. In light of their decision not to accept the plea bargain, which would have allowed Ravi to avoid jail time in exchange for community service, and to go to trial instead, the article said that Ravi’s legal team may have relied too heavily on the expectation that the jury would

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acquit dismiss Ravi’s actions as a childish prank gone horribly wrong. The article also explained that during a time when youth seem to be extremely technologically savvy, juries may no longer accept the excuse that people who are intelligent and skilled enough to plan, execute, and operate technologically do not know any better than to torment their fellow human beings.

Our View:

Dharun Ravi’s conviction should remind us all to behave ourselves, and most importantly, to respect others in the social media and technological world. While most of us will most likely never be involved in an incident related to our use of social media that has such drastic consequences, Ravi’s case represents more proof of why we should watch what we say and do in the cyber-world. Not only can potential employers and/ or educators monitor our behavior, but it can be used against us in legal

situations. We can be held accountable for what we say and do, no matter how harmless our intentions may be. Obviously, there was no way for Dharun Ravi to know that his actions might have produced such a reaction from Clementi, but we bet he will think twice about his words and actions in the future. We all know how bold social media and technology make many of us feel when it comes to expressing ourselves, but it is important that we make sure that those expressions do not come back to haunt us. Our decision to secretly Twitpic the girl with the “ratchet” weave or outfit on the Yard is not that different from Ravi’s decision to turn on his webcam. Even if we think that we may never find ourselves in a similar predicament, how many of us think about the effect that our Twitter rants or subtweets about anyone: roommate, classmate, or ex, could actually have on them? In reality, depending on the type of day that we’re having, any one of us could be just one tweet, Twitpic, or anonymous video posting away from the morgue, or in Ravi’s case, a jail cell.

THE HILLTOP |THURSDAY MARCH 22, 2012

Meccanisms

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1. Will you be at the flagpole today for Trayvon Martin? 2. Did you know about Florida’s law, called “stand your ground?” 3. Landed an internship yet? 4. Are you mad we asked? 5. Did you get rejected from the one you wanted? 6. Are you still waiting to hear back? 7. Don’t you love when your life is someone else’s hands? 8. Have you started calculating your grades yet? 9. Do you know when is the last day to withdraw? 10. Will you be naked on the yard tomorrow? #SpringHasSprung 11. Still daydreaming about your spring break in class? 12. Did you know the semester is basically over? 13. What’s up with teachers assigning research papers? 14.You expect us to read AND write about it? 15. Did you know Sankofa in Blackburn makes coffee? 16. Doesn’t it seem like after spring break, random people just show up on campus? 17. No, but really, how many panels can HU host in one day?! 18. Are we supposed to be going to school or just networking? 19. Are you coming to the Hilltop’s fashion show? 20. Are you trying to be in it?

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THE HILLTOP |THURSDAY MARCH 22, 2012

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