Spring Welcome 2022 by The Standard at Missouri State University

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e m o c l e W

YOUR GUIDE FOR A SUCCESSFUL SPRING 2022 SEMESTER

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Top 10 Reasons to be a Recreation, Sport, and Park Administration Major 1. Change lives. Change communities. 2. Do what you love for a living, and share it with others. 3. Teach others great new skills. 4. Combine classwork, hands-on learning, and real-life experiences. 5. No cubicles! Work outdoors, in sports stadiums, on golf courses, and at resorts. 6. Internships that matter. 7. Professors who really care about you. 8. Travel, work and have fun at the same time. 9. Work with kids without being a teacher. 10. Recreation, Sports, and parks are awesome!

4 Emphasis Areas

Sport Administration

Recreation Management

Parks and Outdoor Recreation

Health and Wellness

Contact Dr. Hugh Gibson (417) 836-5417 | hughgibson@missouristate.edu For more info visit www.rec.missouristate.edu

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Lauren Johns music critic Gianna Kelley critic & columnist The Standard 901 S. National Avenue Jalen Lee photographer Springfield, MO 65897 Reginald Lee Jr. sports reporter 417-836-5272 • Standard@MissouriState.edu the-standard.org Casey Loving reporter Kate Luhmann reporter Makayla Malachowski reporter Meghan McKinney reporter Reporters & visual artists Katie McWilliams reporter Jadie Arnett graphic designer Andrew Michael reporter Katie Batliner graphic designer Sidney Miles reporter Mallory Moore photographer Blake Biswell sports reporter Jenna Murray reporter Kelsie Bethune illustrator Lizzie Concannon photographer Paige Nicewaner columnist Cover design by Dorottya Faa

It sure ain’t spring yet!

Even though we still must endure another several weeks of blistering Midwest cold before spring weather approaches, the spring semester is already in full swing at Missouri State University. For me, the beginning of a new semester has always represented new potential. It’s an opportunity for reflection, re-evaluation and fresh starts. (Speaking of reflection, see page 12 of this publication for my story on starting anew.) The beginning of the spring semester has always typified the unknown, but we are all ready for it. I know this because despite students’ struggle to stomach yet another semester stifled by COVID-19, I have seen unparalleled compassion and camaraderie in my fellow Bears. Two years into the pandemic, we Bears are still doing our best. We’re going to make it through this spring, even though it will be far from easy. (See page 4 of this publication for more on COVID-19.) In my introductory column in the Back to Campus issue of The Standard, I listed a “cacophony of sensations” that precede a semester, including “anticipation, exhilaration — perhaps a hint of trepidation.” These words ring true in a new way for me since this semester is my last as an undergraduate. If you are a second-se-

mester senior like myself, hold on tight. We can do this. (And see page 5 of this publication for the necessary steps to graduation.) This semester is sure to be enduring, exacting and robust for everyone at this university. But at the same time, The Standard staff hopes you feel renewed after your time away. Renewal is the theme we wanted to convey in this issue, from new media and New Year’s resolutions to ongoing construction projects and self-improvement. I am glad this publication has made it to your hands, either in print or online. You can keep seeing the work of the hardworking people listed above on our website, on social media and through our weekly newsletter. Though I’m certainly counting down the days to spring break, The Standard remains committed to providing the most important, relevant information to our readers. Our next special section, the 2022 Housing Guide, is on newsstands Wednesday, Feb 9. I certainly hope you’ll pick up a copy.

- Diana Dudenhoeffer, editor-in-chief

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is published by The Standard, Missouri State University’s student-produced newspaper. The university has not approved and is not responsible for its content, which is produced and edited by the students on The Standard staff.

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Two years later, COVID-19 is still an issue on the Missouri State campus DESIREE NIXON Editor D@DesireeNixon17 At the start of the spring 2020 semester, no one had a clue that a pandemic was on its way. Fast forward two years, the future of COVID-19 is still unknown. But as the omicron variant is surging, experts suggest masks and vaccinations slow the spread. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends all people, regardless of vaccination status, wear a mask, preferably an N95 or KN95 mask. To follow this suggestion, Missouri State University has a masking policy in place for the spring semester in all academic buildings. “The CDC now recommends that everyone — unvaccinated and full vaccinated people — wear a mask in public indoor settings in areas of high transmission of COVID‑19,” said the

the MSU Masking Policy webpage. In addition to masking, the CDC and MSU encourage vaccination among students. In the Nov. 30, 2021 “Clif’s Notes,” MSU President Clif Smart wrote, “Magers Health and Wellness Center is administering COVID-19 booster shots and COVID-19 vaccinations for children and adults who meet CDC guidelines.” On Jan. 5, 2022, the CDC said, “Everyone 5 years and older are recommended to receive a primary series of a COVID-19 vaccine to be considered fully vaccinated.” The CDC also suggests a booster shot for most people. For those vaccinated with Graphic by Noah Huettenmeyer Pfizer, a booster should be COVID-19 Masking Policy on the webpage. A full list of locations where given to people 12 years of age and MSU COVID-19 information center masking is required can be found at older five months after their primary

Temple Hall prepares for construction

SIDNEY MILES Reporter D@all_s_miles

During their October meeting,The Board of Governors approved an architect for the building renovations coming to Temple Hall, according to Tamera Jahnke, dean of the College of Natural and Applied Sciences. Since Nov. 1, Berkebile Nelson Immenschuh

Photo by Lillian Durr Q@moment.of.wondurr Home to the College of Natural and Applied Sciences, Temple Hall prepares to undergo construction. The project is set to begin in December 2022. McDowell Architects from Kansas City have been working with the impacted CNAS departments to carry out plans for the upcoming addition to the science building. The architects are looking for feedback from students about the upcoming changes.

Detailed program information from the master plan is available to students in the geography, geology and planning, biology and chemistry departments for those interested in sharing input on the quality of existing labs and areas to prioritize in the upcoming renovation project.

doses. For those vaccinated with Moderna, a booster should be given to those 18 years of age and older six months after primary doses. Finally, those vaccinated with Johnson & Johnson who are 18 or older should receive a booster two months after the original dose. Those who receive a booster are less likely to contract the omicron variant of COVID-19. “In November, those who were unvaccinated were more than three times more likely to test positive for infection compared to those who were vaccinated,” CDC wrote on Jan. 5, 2022, “and more than nine times (as) likely compared to those who were boosted.” Omicron is the latest variant of COVID-19. This was discovered in November 2021, and early studies suggest it is more contagious than the original variant of COVID-19. “The Omicron variant likely will spread more easily than the original SARS-CoV-2 virus and how easily Omicron spreads compared to Delta remains unknown,” CDC wrote on Dec. 20, 2021. “CDC expects that anyone with Omicron infection can spread the virus to others, even if they are vaccinated or don’t have symptoms.”

Students can leave feedback using the online collaboration tool Mural. An account is not required in order to leave comments. A number of biology faculty are currently headquartered in Kings Street Annex, which was once an annex for the CNAS library. The updates to teaching and research labs will move the students and faculty housed at Kings Street to the new additions to Temple Hall, Jahnke said. She said in addition to unifying the science departments under one roof, students can look forward to an open computer lab and communal spaces for colleagues to study together, offering more opportunities to connect with the learning environment of Temple Hall. The project is expected to break ground in December 2022. This month a report on the space requirements requested by each affected CNAS department will be used to inform future building plans, Jahnke said. “It will be transformational,” Jahnke said. “The teaching labs, the research labs — it will all be in one place. It will be more open. Right now we’re kind of cave-like and you can’t see inside the labs. Many of the labs you will be able to watch from the outside. “I think it’s really important that we all see science happen because sometimes it seems like things happen in a black box and people don’t understand it. This is the way that we will be able to show the world, and show our community, that this is what scientists do.”

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Get ready for graduation with this step-by-step guide Return to the In four months, the spring class of 2022 will enter JQH Arena as undergraduates and exit as alumni of Missouri State University. As the second semester of senior year fills with post-graduation plans and final farewells, here’s a simplified list of everything impending graduates need to do before the pomp and circumstance begins.

Check the degree audit

Love it or hate it, most seniors have used the degree audit when registering for classes during their undergraduate studies. Now is the time to revisit to make sure all requirements are met. Students are encouraged to reach out to their academic advisor early in the semester if something is marked “incomplete,” or if they notice any other issues. To access the degree audit, log into My Missouri State and click the Student tab. Then visit the My Graduation Path channel.

Take the Undergraduate Exit Survey

All seniors will receive an email during the first month of the semester notifying them that the Undergraduate Exit Survey is open on Blackboard. Think of it as an end-of-course reflection, except it’s for an entire undergraduate experience. It takes about 30 minutes to complete. To access the survey, go to the Course channel in Blackboard Learn. Next, click the “Undergraduate Exit Survey Sp22” link. Students will then be directed to a list of instructions and a couple links containing the survey. The first part is the Senior Survey, and it asks students about post-graduation plans. The second part includes the Public Affairs Scale, which asks students to rank their overall experience at Missouri State. This portion also contains brief essay questions asking students to reflect on their undergraduate years based on the university’s public affairs mission. After submitting both parts of the survey, students will receive an email verifying completion.

Apply to graduate

It’s time to make it official! To access the application form, go to My Missouri State, click the Student tab and visit the My Graduation Path channel. After clicking the “Graduation Application and Status Review” link, students will be directed to an online form with questions regarding commencement and post-graduation, such as verifying their degree and name spelling. The application only takes a couple minutes to complete, but make sure to submit it by March 31 to be listed in the graduation program.

“I don’t have the energy and drive to go to class all the time, so I have to force myself out of bed,” Carey said. These types of symptoms are common, according to the Mayo Clinic. Other symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder are synonymous with symptoms of depression, including issues with sleep, appetite and thoughts of worthlessness or guilt. The treatment for this illness can be as simple as having light in your room, but the Mayo Clinic also said talk therapy and medication can mitigate the symptoms. MAKAYLA MALACHOWSKI So how does Seasonal Affective Disorder impact schoolwork? The answer comes from Reporter the lack of energy and being able to solidify a D@MMal2024 routine, Missouri State University psychology associate professor Bogdan Kostic said. Kostic has some advice for students that may be struggling to get back into the routine of schoolwork. “The biggest thing you can do is try to keep up with your work,” Kostic said. “If your class meets three times a week, go to every single one of those lectures and don’t skip any.” Kostic said not to let the assignments build up and attempt to do them all at once, but rather do them as they are assigned. Kostic said the beginning of the semester is a great time to start building new habits. “It’s really about building routines and carving out time to do things, like studying for exams and completing assignments,” Kostic said. “Do it whether you feel like it or not.” There are ways for stuto get past productivIllustration by Dorottya Faa Q@disaaky dents ity slumps and Seasonal When students return from winter break for Affective Disorder. Carey said she suggests the spring semester, they may find it harder to trying to get outside as much as possible during get back in the school routine. There are sever- the day. al reasons for this, including productivity slumps Carey also said she is able to ease herself and Seasonal Affective Disorder. back into school by making a routine for herself A 2007 study showed Seasonal Affective to get used to, so her return to school is not a Disorder can happen during all times of the year, total shock. but the majority of cases occur during winter. While breaks are important for students to Researchers found symptoms usually begin in recuperate before the next semester begins, stuOctober and November and resolve in March. dents can prevent learning loss by going over Another study found that five percent of old course materials to refresh their memory, or adults in the United States have Seasonal Affec- they can do something simple, like find a new tive Disorder. The researcher said Seasonal Af- book they have been wanting to read. Edutopia fective Disorder can have negative effects on found that reading over a break can help students college students in particular. retain more information. If you or a fellow Bear is struggling with Keagan Carey, a Missouri State University sophomore studying information technology, Seasonal Affective Disorder, the Magers Health suffers from Seasonal Affective Disorder. Carey and Wellness Center is available to students. For said it sometimes affects her schoolwork. more information, call 417-836-4045.

spring semester brings difficulties for students

KATIE McWILLIAMS Reporter DKatieMcWillia14

Illustration by Dorottya Faa Q@disaaky

Check your advising notes

About three to five days after submitting the application, students will receive an advising note verifying the Office of the Registrar’s approval. This can be accessed through My Missouri State under the Registration tab in the My Student Records channel. Congratulations, soon-to-be graduate! Your name is officially added to the commencement program.

Order a cap and gown

Prepare to walk on stage with maroon and white pride! Students can purchase their regalia at the Grad Fair during the month of March. The event will take place in the PSU Ballroom and include booths featuring campus representatives, free prizes and resources to help students prepare for post-college life. Students can also order their cap, gown and tassel through the MSU Bookstore’s website or in-store.

Attend commencement

Get excited for the big day! The Spring 2022 Commencement is scheduled for Friday, May 20. Students can visit www.missouristate.edu/ Commencement/ for more information, including ceremony times for each college and instructions for both graduates and guests. Diplomas will arrive in the mail at each graduate’s permanent address about four weeks after the ceremony. Whether continuing education, starting a full-time job or doing something else, we wish the class of 2022 all the best!

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Enjoy new books in the Preview the movies releasing this semester new year “Fiona and Jane” by Jean Chen Ho

PAIGE NICEWANER Columnist D@indienerdtrash After falling into the rabbit hole of “BookTok” – a TikTok hashtag that has racked up over 29 billion views where users talk about and recommend books – I have found myself more enthralled by reading than ever. BookTok has invigorated me and many others to enjoy the pastime of reading and recommending books to family and friends. What’s most exciting is learning about new book releases from my favorite authors. The new year also means the release of new books. If you’re like me and are always looking for a new book to read, check out the following recommendations for the most anticipated books coming out in 2022.

“Reminders of Him” by Colleen Hoover

Colleen Hoover is known for her emotionally gripping novels that tear your heart out. If you’re a fan of her standalone novels, “Ugly Love” or “All Your Perfects,” this book might be the one for you. After being released from prison and reunited with her four-year-old daughter, Kenna Rowan must relearn to navigate her old life with her family. The local bar owner, Ledger War, is one of the few who have not shut her out and unsurprisingly, the two form a strong connection. Throughout the book, Kenna faces the challenge of owning up to her past mistakes and must learn to overcome them in order to build her new life. Set to release on Jan. 19, “Reminders of Him” is the perfect contemporary romance novel to bawl your eyes out to.

Following the lives and friendship of Tawainese American women Fiona Lin and Jane Shen, Jean Chen Ho’s latest novel explores the ambiguities of identity, sexuality and heartbreak. Told through alternating perspectives, Fiona and Jane both experience tragedy and must learn to grapple with it while still maintaining their friendship. Set to release on Jan. 4, “Fiona and Jane” is a deep dive into the complexities of two young Asian women’s lives living in America and is a book you won’t be able to put down.

Texas Chainsaw

Gabe Montesanti in her memoir “Brace for Impact” writes about her experience growing up as a queer woman in the Midwest and falling in love with roller derby. For any LGBTQ+ Missourian, this honest and heart-wrenching biography is a magnificent look into the difﬁculties of being queer in a conservative hometown. Check out this memoir when it releases on May 24.

Set in the modern day, 2022’s “Texas Chainsaw Massacre” serves as a direct sequel to the 1974 horror classic “The Texas Chainsaw Massacre,” ignoring the franchise’s other entries in between. The sequel sees a group of young friends head to Harlow, Texas, to start up a new business venture, dis“Let’s Get Physical” by Danielle Fried- turbing the home of franchise villain Leatherface in the process. Leatherface and survivor Sally Hardesty are set to return to the sequel following their roles in the original movie, though both have been recast. “Texas Chainsaw Massacre” releases on Netﬂix Feb. 18. “‘Texas Chainsaw’ was one of the intro horror movies that I liked growing up,” said MSU Film Society President Lox Lavey. “I like the original, obviously, but I like the campiness of the sequels.”

Uncharted (Feb. 18)

man

Screenshot from Amazon

“Let’s Get Physical” dives into the fascinating culture of women’s fitness. From the popularity of aerobics in the 1980s to the explosion of yoga in the 1990s, Danielle Friedman takes readers on a journey of the fitness industry throughout the decades. Coming out on Jan 4, Friedman’s new book explores issues such as race, class and gender and how they all play a part in women’s fitness culture.

ested to see it ... I think Zoë Kravits is a great choice for Catwoman as well, and I’m excited that The Riddler is coming back.”

With each new year comes a new slate of movies to see. A number of highly anticipated ﬁlms are set to ﬁnally release this spring following several production delays due to COVID-19. From big family blockbusters to small horror, theatrical to streaming, here are the releases you have to look forward to this semester.

“Brace for Impact” by Gabe Montesanti Massacre (Feb. 18)

“My Dearest Darkest” by Kayla Cottingham

Coming out on April 5, “My Dearest Darkest” is an enticing sapphic young adult book, great for any horror fanatic. In dealing with a tragic event that occurred in her past, Finch Chamberlain must learn how to ﬁt in at her new school, Ulalume Academy. Soon enough, Finch forms an unyielding bond with classmate Selene St. Clair when the two stumble upon something sinister. After accidentally summoning an evil paranormal creature, Finch and Selena have to work together to stop the horror from killing them and everyone else. For lovers of spooky books centering around queer characters, “My Dearest Darkests” checks all the boxes.

CASEY LOVING Columnist D@caseymloving

Based on the popular PlayStation game franchise of the same name, “Uncharted” promises globe-trotting, treasure-hunting, action-adventure fun at the movies. Starring Tom Holland as the charismatic Nathan Drake and Mark Wahlberg as his ally Sully, “Uncharted” serves as a prequel to the video game series, telling the story of the ﬁrst team-up between Drake and Sully. Just as the games feel like interactive versions of “Indiana Jones”-style adventures, “Uncharted” looks like a throwback to the kind of treasure-hunting movies that

Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness (May 6)

Screenshot from IMDb

just don’t come often enough anymore.

The Batman (March 4)

Arguably the most highly anticipated release of the semester, the Dark Knight returns to theaters on March 4 with “The Batman.” Following his work on the “Cloverfield” and “Planet of the Apes” franchises, director Matt Reeves helms the story set during year two of Batman’s career as the Caped Crusader as he fights The Riddler. “It looks like The Riddler if Kevin Spacey from ‘Se7en’ was The Riddler,” senior digital film and television production major Blake Kourik said. “From the trailers, I’m pretty psyched to see it. That’s another one I will see in theaters.” In “The Batman,” Robert Pattinson takes on the iconic dual role of Bruce Wayne and Batman. Joining him are Paul Dano as The Riddler, Zoë Kravitz as Catwoman, Andy Serkis as Alfred Pennyworth, Jeffrey Wright as James Gordon and Colin Farrell as The Penguin. “I like it when superhero movies are a little bit more serious and have higher stakes,” senior English literature major Sarah Morgan said. “I also really like the cast. I think Robert Pattinson would do a really good job. I think he might surprise people as Batman. Everyone knows him as the guy from ‘Twilight,’ but I think that he could probably prove himself in this movie, so I’d be inter-

Benedict Cumberbatch returns as doctor/sorcerer Stephen Strange in the Marvel sequel “Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness.” Marvel Studios has kept plot details tightly under wraps, but the title implies the continuation of the MCU’s recent trend of visiting parallel universes following the successes of “Avengers: Endgame,” “Loki,” “Spider-Man: No Way Home” and other recent universe-breaking entries.“The Evil Dead” and “Spider-Man” director Sam Raimi has taken over as director following Scott Derrickson’s exit from the franchise. “I’m very interested, because he (Raimi) hasn’t done a superhero film since ‘Spider-Man 3,’ which kind of studio bombed,” Kourik said. “I’m hoping Marvel doesn’t put too many fingers in the pie. I’m hoping he has more creative control.” Elizabeth Olsen is set to colead the film as Scarlet Witch following her Disney+ series “WandaVision.” Joining Olsen and Cumberbatch are returning characters from the first “Doctor Strange” film such as Wong, Mordo and Dr. Christine Palmer, as well as the introduction of Xochitl Gomez as Marvel comics character America Chavez. “Out of all the live-action MCU characters, I think Doctor Strange is my favorite,” Lavey said. “I love Sam Raimi. I grew up a huge ‘Evil Dead’ fan. Honestly, I like the ‘Evil Dead’ trilogy more than the ‘Spider-Man’ trilogy. That’s the type of Sam Raimi fan I am, and so seeing Doctor Strange mix in his superhero feels with what sounds like is going to be more in a sense like a horror movie … is something I’m excited for.”

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Mark your calendar with these MSU Theatre and Dance spring productions Liliana Hayes Reporter D@lilidarleen This spring marks a new season of theatrical productions for the Theatre and Dance Department at Missouri State University. Check out the following list of productions to put on your calendars!

“Good Kids” by Naomi Iizuka

party and whether Chloe was a victim of sexual assault “Good Kids” explores the double standards that result in bad things happening to good kids. The show will be directed by Sarah Wiggin, a professor in the Theatre and Dance Department. The last show she directed, “She Kills Monsters,” was set at full capacity for audience members, a feat unachieved since 2019. COVID-19 procedures will still be in place for every 2022 production to make sure everyone involved stays safe. “During rehearsals, the company will get tested for COVID weekly and be masked 100% of the time,” Wiggin said. “During the performance, the company will continue to be tested weekly, the crew will be masked, the audience will be masked, but the actors will not be masked.”

handle them. “Baltimore” tells the story of Shelby Wilson, an African American woman who becomes a freshman resident assistant after being dismissed from her job in the athletics department. After a racially charged incident in the dorm occurs, her idea that she lives in a post-racial society is forced to change. At ﬁrst, Shelby can’t bring herself to act, but then the event begins to spread to social media and the threat of a violent outbreak grows stronger every day. Shelby has to ﬁnd a way to bring peace back to campus or watch her community fall apart at the seams. Directed by Jon Herbert, a graduate teaching assistant, “Baltimore” is based on true events and personal anecdotes shared with the playwright by real college students.

Feb. 27: 2:30 p.m. / March 2-3, 8-9: 7:30 p.m. Based on actual events and conversations with college students, “Good Kids” is about Hoover High, a typical Midwestern high school that idolizes its football team, the Mustangs. Chloe ﬁnds herself surrounded by people she’s never met when her cousin, Kylie, brings her along to a “A Chorus Line” by James Kirkwood and Nicholas Dante party with all of the “cool kids.” At “Baltimore” by April 7-9: 7:30 p.m. / April 10: one point during the night, Chloe is Kirsten Greenidge Feb. 28, March 1, 4, 7: 7:30 p.m. 2:30 p.m. led away from Kylie by a group of With music by Marvin Hamlisch boys on the football team. The next / March 6: 2:30 p.m. day, social media is blowing up about “Baltimore” focuses on prevalent and lyrics by Edward Kleban, the what happened to Chloe during the race issues and how college students story of “A Chorus Line” opens

during the auditions for a brand new musical with only eight open spots on the chorus line. The story itself centers around 24 dancers eagerly auditioning for one of the eight coveted spots. After the ﬁrst round of cuts, Zach, the show’s choreographer/director, asks each dancer to introduce themselves. Only 17 people remain, and they all share their stories one by one. The show gives the audience a glimpse into the dreams and aspirations of the performers, and slowly each character’s distinct personality begins to emerge. The idea for “A Chorus Line” came from veteran Broadway dancers Michon Peacock and Tony Stevens in January 1974. The two conducted countless hours of interviews where they gathered the true life experiences of several Broadway dancers, which became the basis of the show. Director and assistant professor Sarah Wilcoxon ﬁrst proposed this show to the department as a way to challenge the students and director alike. “We could all grow together and

learn through the process,” Wilcoxon said. The show speaks to many themes and issues our students experience. After over a year of time away from large scale, traditional live performance due to the pandemic, it feels very relevant to what our students are experiencing now.”

Boundless: Spring Dance Concert

May 5-7: 7:30 p.m. / May 8: 2:30 p.m. Every year, Missouri State’s Spring Dance Concert brings creative works and a moving performance to the MSU campus by pushing the boundaries of dance. Through showcasing original compositions, the choreographers aim to represent their own diverse perspectives. The Spring Dance Concert, coordinated by assistant professor Azaria Hogans, attempts to capture the beauty of movement with multimedia effects, a variety of dance styles and innovative concepts in a way that will allow all audience members to enjoy the stories the performers have to tell. For locations, ticket prices and full synopses, check out the Theatre and Dance Department page on the MSU website.

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Electronic arts seniors continue work on thesis projects GRETA CROSS Reporter D@gretacrossphoto

Each May, Missouri State University electronic arts seniors let out a sigh of relief as they wrap their senior thesis projects, which they spend an entire year crafting. This year, four senior thesis projects are in the works.

‘Honey Locust’

— a place they can be themselves. Guadalupe Gaona, a senior EA major with A short ﬁlm and concept EP make up “The an emphasis in animation, said she admired Gallery,” which tells the story of a mysterious astronomy and felt a sense of creative freedom hotel. to create her own story among the stars. Chase Brashers is the co-producer, audio engineer, songwriter, sound editor and mixer for the project. He pitched the concept for “The Gallery” during the spring 2021 semester. The semester before their senior year, EA juniors pitch senior thesis projects to their peers and EA faculty.

‘The Gallery’

which will play as viewers enter Perches’ structural installation. The installation will be a minimalist rectangular prism. Perches said the entrance will be about 6-7 feet and the height of the prism will increase to about 12-13 feet. An LED screen will cover the back wall of the structure. The installation will be located in an open ﬁeld on the west side of Springﬁeld where Perches grew up.

Illustration submitted by Guadalupe Gaona Photo submitted by Heather Shields “Honey Locust” crew prepare for test shots outside of Strong Hall during the fall 2021 semester.

The short film “Honey Locust” discusses mental health awareness and togetherness. According to director of photography and screenwriter Heather Shields, a senior EA major with an emphasis in video studies, the film centers around a woman named Edith. Edith distances herself from her younger sister Fay after Fay is injured in a car accident. Edith is unable to accept Fay’s condition and feels anxiety when visiting her at Honey Locust Assisted Living. On her way to visit her sister, Edith picks up a teenager named Sonny, who is hitchhiking to Chicago. Throughout their road trip, Edith and Sonny show each other that they don’t have to live life alone. Director and composer Brandon Ditsch, a senior EA major with an emphasis in audio studies, said one element of the film he is excited to see finalized is the visual effects, specifically 3D animation. In fall 2021, the film’s visual effects team began work on creating 3D animated sets. “We are shooting in camera, but we are editing in backgrounds,” Ditsch said. “Technically, the story takes place in Montana, but we’re shooting in Springfield. You’ll never know it was shot in Springfield, which is a task. But I think in the grand scheme of things, I think it’s going to be really cool.” “Honey Locust” will begin filming at the end of January or beginning of February. Students can follow the film’s progress on Instagram @honeylocustfilm.

Photo submitted by Chase Brashers Senior Ben Stenberg smiles while playing the bass as the audio team for “The Gallery” works on demos for the short film and concept EP. “The Gallery” is one of four electronic arts senior thesis projects this year.

A digital rendering of Sluff, one of the three main alien characters in “A Place to Call Home” beams a wide, toothy smile. According to senior Guadalupe Gaona, who pitched the animation, Sluff was created in an earlier class for a character expression assignment. She decided to hold on to her notes in hopes she would be able to flesh out the character in the future. Gaona said “A Place to Call Home” is for anyone who admires cute characters and is fascinated with outer space adventures. “This is a project for a good laugh with the family and (to) nurture our curious minds on outer space,” Gaona said. The animation’s three characters, Sluff, Timb and Pupe, were developed over a series of art classes. Gaona said she speciﬁcally kept her notes and assignments about Sluff from a character expression assignment in hopes she would be able to ﬂesh out his character in the future. During the spring semester, Gaona will acquire a team to create a storyboard, background art and character sketches. An audio crew will also be assembled. Gaona said she feels as if 2D animation is often overshadowed by other media and is excited to showcase her project in hopes to inspire other animators.

“The inspiration behind ‘The Gallery’ came from when I was staying in a hotel on vacation a few years ago,” Brashers, a senior EA major with an emphasis in audio studies, said. “As a songwriter, I thought it would be a neat idea to create a concept album about a hotel where the guests are all wacky and unique and the songs follow the story of those characters.” During the fall 2021 semester, Brashers and his team were in pre-production. This included completing demos for three songs, writing shot lists, location scouting and animating tests for scenes that will be partially or fully animated. One of the locations scouted was the Crescent Hotel and Spa in Eureka Springs, Arkansas. Brashers said what makes “The Gallery” different is its multimedia format. “‘The Gallery’ is not only a film or a film with songs but a concept album that works to tell a unique story with an accompanying film that fleshes out those ideas visually,” Brashers ‘Tito’ A trio of auditory, structural and visual comsaid. ponents, “Tito” references the architecture and The team will begin filming this spring. sounds of David Perches’ childhood. ‘A Place to Call Home’ Perches, a senior EA major with an emphaThis year’s single animation project, “A sis in interactive media, described “Tito” as an Place to Call Home,” tells the story of three album release in a sight-specific location. The outcast aliens looking for a planet to call home auditory portion of the project is a five-song EP,

Rendering submitted by David Perches A 3D rendering of a rectangular prism that presents the minimalistic structure that will make up the structural component of electronic arts senior thesis project “Tito.” The entrance of the structure will be 6-7 feet and the prism will increase to about 12-13 feet inside. Viewers will have the opportunity to walk inside and view a large LED screen that will display an array of colorful visuals. Perches said what makes “Tito” different from the other EA projects is its lack of a traditional narrative. “There are character stories and arches in the other projects, but I think with mine, my characters essentially are the audio, sculpture and visuals,” Perches said. “While they may not reference humans and the human condition, they themselves are characters in my project.” Perches said during the spring semester he will focus on building the structure, mastering the music and ﬁnalizing the visuals. The four senior thesis projects will be completed throughout the spring semester. Traditionally, an Electronic Arts Senior Showcase is held in May to exhibit the works.

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Get experience and exposure with college internships ANDREW MICHAEL Reporter D@overander Whether a student is looking to satisfy degree requirements or for personal educational interest, internships can be an intimidating first step into a career field. But with a little preparation, students can get the most out of their internship opportunities. The Missouri State University Career Center, located in Carrington 309, has a variety of tools to help students find and prepare for internships. Among these is Handshake, an online service that allows employers to reach out to students who sign up. There are also in-person opportunities on campus for students to interact with potential employers. Once a student has found an internship that interests them, it’s important to approach the employer properly. Marjorie Stewart, associate director at the Career Center, said prior research on a prospective employer can help make a good first impression. “If they feel like a student is reaching out to them and they’ve not done their research yet, they’re not as likely to be impressed,” Stewart said. “They’re more likely to lean in when somebody’s done a little research.” Stewart also said it’s important for students to market themselves based on what they feel are their biggest strengths. While internships are useful to students for educational opportunities,

Photo via Startup Stock Photos they should try to emphasize what they hope to contribute when speaking with employers. Focusing on strengths also applies to a student’s resume, which might not be as robust as the student would hope. Stewart said adding information on past academic projects, volunteer work and minor achievements or traits can help fill out a resume. “What have you done that you are proud of?” Stewart said. “Not that you’re gonna write every single thing down, but sometimes we have to start thinking about ‘What have I done that I’m really proud of?’”

BROKE AND ALONE:

Why I studied abroad anyway MEGHAN McKINNEY Reporter D@burning_leaves_

Each program is unique for its budget, so I can’t tell you an exact amount to save. I recommend deciding to study abroad at least a year before the program begins. It allows time to budget, make a savings plan and find scholarships.

Being alone

I am outgoing and make friends easily, but I am afraid I won’t meet anyone while abroad. YouTube videos, blog posts and human beings have told me I will make friends — but what if I don’t? In preparation for life abroad, I practiced “me-time:” being comfortable with entertaining myself. I did this by taking daily walks, listening to podcasts, reading and doing other solo hobbies. To practice traveling alone, I took a three-day trip to Kansas City in July 2021. If for some reason I don’t make friends while abroad, at least I will have these skills to rely on.

In February 2021, I felt the Office of Education Abroad stare at me as I ate my chicken nuggets. It lurks in the corner of the PSU: close enough to gawk at, but not close enough to actually walk into. After pacing for another five minutes, I walked into the office and said, “I don’t know where I want to go, but I need to go somewhere.” I am writing from December, but I believe it will be the best decision of my college career.

Submitted by Meghan McKinney

This photo is at the “Bon Voyage” dinner before my Jan. 11 departure from Springfield. Something that annoyed Why I chose to study abroad I felt like I’ve written about a million schol- me before I went was people giving arship essays explaining why I want to study me their impression of London, even abroad. My automatic thought was “who though they had never been.

Broke but worth it

My college education and study abroad are funded by me, myself and I. Only 30% of my study abroad fees are being paid by loans. The rest is scholarships, grants and my personal savings. I work part-time and do school fulltime, and I still somehow have a social life. My point is, you can afford to study abroad! Do not let a lack of money defer you from education abroad.

It’s also important for students to have expectations that will help them get the most out of an internship. Knowing how many hours of work per week an internship consists of could influence whether a student is actually interested in the position. Head of the Finance and General Business Department Jeff Jones said he would advise students interning during a semester to work no more than 20-25 hours if they’re taking other classes, though they should expect to work more if completing an internship over the summer. “It really just depends on what the course load is (and what) the coursework is,” Jones said. “If it’s a really challenging major, and you’ve got a lot of hours that semester, maybe you can only work 10 or 15 hours. I think you have to take it in context of everything else that’s going on in the student’s life.” With the numerous expectations and demands that any internship is liable to place on a student, many might wonder if such a position is even worth it given their other academic responsibilities. Both Stewart and Jones said there are many benefits for students who do one or more internships during their college career. The experience might provide a student with exposure to a potential full-time employer or let them decide whether they really like their intended career path. Stewart said it can also be a positive, confidence-building experience. “I recommend every student get an internship before they graduate for the sole purpose of feeling like you have something to offer an employer when you graduate. There’s something nice about feeling ‘I have some exposure to the industry,’ or ‘I’ve done something in the field.’”

Submitted by Meghan McKinney I took this selfie in the Chicago O’Hare airport before my flight to London. It was in the airport that I realized the trip was really happening.

wouldn’t want to study abroad?” By the time you are reading this, I will be in London and probably still won’t know why I want to study abroad. Of course, I want to experience different cultures and push myself outside my comfort zone. However, there seems to be a deeper need to study away which I can’t put

into words. Even if studying abroad has crossed your mind only once, consider visiting the Missouri State’s Office of Education Abroad for more information to see if it is right for you.

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Graphic by Chloe Gramelspacher Q@chloe.gramelspacher

WHY YOUR NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS AREN’T GOING ACCORDING TO PLAN AND HOW TO PRIORITIZE SELF-IMPROVEMENT YEAR ‘ROUND DIANA DUDENHOEFFER Editor-in-Chief D@kisstein At the end of each calendar year, millions of people think to themselves, “New year, new me,” and they start cooking up grandiose plans for self-improvement. Now three weeks later, many feel their motivation slipping. In fact, according to a 2019 Psychology Today article, most people — as many as 79% — abandon their New Year’s resolutions by mid-January. The reason? People aren’t ready for lasting change. “Recognizing (a) problem is only a part of the process,” the Psychology Today article said. “It’s not enough to recognize you want to change. You

have to decide that the pros of changing your life outweigh the cons of staying the same.” Daytona Devereaux is a Missouri State University senior studying digital film and TV production. He has been setting New Year’s resolutions for himself for years, including weight loss goals, study and work habits and financial well-being. “The feelings I usually have surrounding New Year’s is typically that of hope for what is to come for the future — no matter how cliche that may sound,” Devereaux said with a laugh. “Typically I look forward to how I can improve myself versus (previous years).” Devereaux has had some success in sticking to his resolutions in the past, but the ambitions for self-improvement don’t always stick around. Devereaux said he can sometimes feel his motivation for his resolutions “vanish” due to a lack

of focus. If a goal is too abstract, he said it’s easier to ignore. Dr. Leslie Echols is an associate professor of psychology at MSU. She defines motivation as the unique combination of wanting to do something while believing you can. Echols said one of the dangers of setting a lofty goal is that you are more likely to fail. In turn, the more times you fail, the more it can feed into a negative mindset like: “It’s not even worth trying because I’ll just fail.” Echols uses two theories in her discipline which can provide insight into how to achieve goals. The first is Value Expectancy Theory, which can help set reasonable goals. The second is Attribution Theory, which helps people not give up in circumstances where they fail to reach a goal. According to Echols, Value Expectancy Theory dictates someone is more likely to do some-

THE-STANDARD.ORG thing if two things are true: they perceive the action has value, and they expect they can achieve or accomplish it. If you don’t value it enough, you aren’t going to be motivated to follow through with the goal, Echols said. Psychology Today tells its readers something similar. A New Year’s resolution is liable to fail because an arbitrary start date doesn’t automatically mean somebody is ready to make a change. Attribution Theory is used to help someone understand the causes of a negative event. In other words, someone can use this theory to explain why they fail and to prevent failures. This is relevant for New Year’s resolutions, Echols said, because they have a reputation for not lasting long. Three dimensions explain someone’s mindset surrounding a negative event, Echols said. One is locus: Is the cause of the failure from inside of me, or was it caused by an external circumstance? Two is stability: Is the reason I failed something that will continue to prevent me from succeeding in the future, or is it an isolated incident? Three is controllability: Can I prevent this circumstance from getting in the way of reaching my goals? Echols said the aim is to remain motivated after a failure — and to do so means confronting a combination of these three dimensions. “Instead of saying, ‘I’m gonna go to the gym every single day at 7 a.m.,’ maybe a more reasonable goal is: ‘I’m gonna try to make it to the gym three times a week, and it doesn’t matter what time of day it is,’” Echols said. Echols stressed the importance of focusing on the things you can control: When you control what you can to create a set of more favorable circumstances in the three dimensions of Attribution Theory, then your expectancy can increase, which means you’ll be more motivated to stick with a goal. Even by the third week of January, it’s not too late, Echols said. Her advice? Revisit and reassess your goals. Review where you have succeeded and failed and evaluate what contributed to it. Plus, it’s ok to modify goals, too. “A lot of people fall into the trap of thinking, ‘I set this goal, and if I’m not able to do it exactly the way that I intended to, then it’s a failure,”’ Echols said. Any progress you make toward a goal is a positive step. Echols said to try reaching the goal through another method when the first attempt is unsuccessful. “Be gentle with yourself,” Echols said. “Be flexible in the way you accomplish goals.” Even though Devereaux hasn’t stuck to every goal he’s set, he still makes resolutions. For 2022, Devereaux aims to find a place to live on his own, find a job that focuses on his career and finish working on his current film project. He’s optimistic about his goals, too. “I feel I’ll be able to reach parts of the longer-term resolutions I have set for myself,” Devereaux said.

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The best bargains for Bears TINSLEY MERRIMAN Editor D@merrimantinsley

College students seem to always be lacking in the funding department; open one of their wallets and a moth might ﬂy out. But several businesses across Springﬁeld offer discounts to students.

Food and Drink: • •

•

HBO Max: Students are able to use their M-number to sign in to the service on MSU Wi-Fi. This continues to work after leaving campus if the student remains signed into the device. Spotify: Students are able to enter their name and college to enroll in Spotify Premium. They must also be logged in using an account bearing their school email. Once veriﬁed, this deal also includes Hulu and Showtime. Following a one-month trial, students pay $4.99 each month and can cancel at any time.

Bair’s Sports Grill: 20% off every day 2-6 p.m. Springfield Brewing Company: 10% off when presented While these businesses offer perks for students, there are also with a student ID. Qdoba: The location at 401 S. Kimbrough Ave. offers many ways to save without a Bear Pass. Several businesses offer • students a 10% discount. a deeper system of couponing open for everyone. Dominos: The location at 538 S. National Ave. offers CVS Pharmacy: After every purchase, CVS receipts con• • discounted pricing through the app and website. tain coupons. These can include a steep discount on products or money toward another purchase. Local Entertainment: Hy-Vee: The business offers weekly coupons through their • • Alamo Drafthouse: Students who show their ID at the box website and newsletter. There is also Hy-Vee Fuel Saver office get a dollar off tickets. + Perks, which allows users of either the app or card to • Regal College Station: 10% off with a student ID. accumulate cents per gallon and get deals on both their Wonders of Wildlife: On the first Wednesday of every • fuel and groceries. month, students can show their student ID for a $20 tickExpertVoice: This third-party system gives customer-ser• vice employees access to a wide variety of products. Uset. There is also 10% off food and gifts. ers can watch videos and take quizzes on the products to Goods and Services: receive discounts. Some offered coupons include 60% off • Amazon Prime Student: With a valid student ID, students Costa Del Mar sunglasses and up to half off Brooks runare able to use a six-month free trial, then pay half-price ning shoes. following. • GetUpside: This system allows users to get money back

Bear us in mind free condoms

Photo by Russ Bray Q@russ.bray Hy-Vee’s Fuel Saver + Perks program allows customers special deals and credit toward gas at the station in the parking lot. Hy-Vee is located on the corner of Battlefield and Kansas Expressway. from some gas stations, grocery stores and restaurants. Users check into a location prior to their purchase, nabbing the discount for themselves. While users pay the full price while there, the system detects a certain percentage per dollar. This adds up and allows users to earn their spent money back in either a direct deposit or a gift card to several businesses. Even though it looks like the world costs a lot to live in, one can always ﬁnd a way to cut down on pricing. All it takes is a sharp pair of eyes and some patience!

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SPRING SPORTS PREVIEW: Start dates and championships the MVC tournament semifinals 3-2 to Northern Iowa. Head coach Holly Hesse returns for her 34th season. She has won 844 games in that time. The biggest returning name is senior pitcher Steffany Dickerson, who has been the staff ace for a couple of seasons now. Last year she had 24 appearances and posted a 3.13 ERA. The Bears play their home games at Killian Softball Complex in Springfield. Their first game is Feb. 11 against California Baptist in Tempe, Arizona, as part of the Kajikawa Classic.

STEPHEN TERRILL Sports Editor D@stevethe2nd There are plenty of opportunities for Bears fans to attend games this spring, including some teams which could end up in national tournaments. Here is a look at all of them:

Women’s Basketball

The Lady Bears have already started their conference schedule and are considered the favorite to win the Missouri Valley. Senior guards Brice Calip and Mariah White, as well as senior forward Jasmine Franklin, had big performances in the fall semester. The MVC tournament will be March 10-13 in Moline, Illinois, and broadcast on ESPN+. After that will come March Madness, which the Lady Bears have done well in recently. File photo/THE STANDARD Their last two trips there resulted in Sweet 16 appearances. With much of the roster returning from last year, the team has Senior pitcher Trey Ziegenbein pitches to an Oklaa good shot to do it again. homa State player in a spring 2021 game.

Men’s Basketball

The men’s team has also been competitive in its fall schedule, playing a close game with No. 12 BYU and beating Oral Roberts, which was a surprise team in the previous NCAA Tournament. Junior guard Isiaih Mosley has continued to be one of the best scoring guards in the nation, with multiple 20+ point nights. Senior center Gaige Prim has been a strong presence in the paint, averaging a double-double so far. Arch Madness, the MVC’s conference tournament, will be in St. Louis March 3-6.

Baseball

After a losing season last year, the MSU baseball team will come in with new-look coaching staff. Head coach Keith Guttin returns for his 40th season, but Joey Hawkins is coming in as a hitting coach. Hawkins is a former player and has spent the last few years as a hitting coach in the St. Louis Cardinals organization. Senior pitcher Trey Ziegenbein returns for the Bears after earning First Team All-MVC honors and a 3.77

What MSU does when snow hits the campus

Tennis

Missouri State women’s tennis will have some needed stability this spring. Last school year the team had two head coaches, one for the fall season and one for the spring season. Both coaches left after those seasons ended. But this fall the Bears hired coach Randall Knox on Aug. 5. He coached them through several individual tournaments, where two of the Bears’ doubles teams finished in fifth. This spring will begin the team portion of the schedule, with the Bears competing in several conference meets, as well as the conference tournament in April.

Golf

ERA last season. The Bears play their home games at Hammons Field, where The men’s golf team will compete in several meets, includthe Springfield Cardinals play. Their first games are at Central ing a home meet at Twin Oaks golf course in Springfield on Arkansas Feb. 18-20, and their first home game is against Cal- March 21. Their conference tournament will be in late April. ifornia Polytechnic on Feb. 25. In the fall, junior Max Kreikemeier finished in the top-20 at the Little Rock Invitational. The women’s team also has a conference tournament in late Missouri State’s club hockey team has itself in a position to April. Last season the team finished fifth after being picked to make another national tournament appearance. The Ice Bears win. have beaten top-10 team Central Oklahoma and played close games with Lindenwood and Nevada-Las Vegas, which are in The track and field team will begin play on Jan. 22 at a meet the top-5. The Ice Bears play in the American Collegiate Hockey As- on Kansas State’s campus as part of their indoor schedule. They sociation, which is the biggest collegiate hockey organization have been picked to finish fifth in the MVC indoor season. “I think we have a team that can really make things interand handles most college teams not in the NCAA. The nationesting this indoor season relative to the preseason poll,” head al tournament will be held March 10-15 in St. Louis. coach Jordan Fife said in a Missouri State release. “We’re looking forward to proving that we belong in that top group each Last year the Softball Bears had a 26-17 record, falling in and every season.”

Ice Bears

Track & Field

Softball

JENNA MURRAY Reporter D@Jenna_Murray5 University safety is already planning and preparing for this season’s possible snow and ice. University Safety oversees several departments, including Campus Safety, the Dispatch Center, Emergency Preparedness and Transportation Services. “We do all the things related to planning, training and exercising related to emergencies and disasters,” said David Hall, Director of University Safety. “Right now we are coordinating a response to COVID-19 because that’s the biggest emergency we’ve been dealing with now for a year and a half.” One of the responsibilities of University Safety is handling severe weather, including snow and ice. When severe weather is forecasted, the National Weather Service holds a con-

ference call with schools early in the morning to discuss the weather conditions. “We listen in to a conference call that they have for all the schools in the area and then we report that and we work with facilities in Campus Safety and report what are the actual conditions,” Hall said. After this conference, Campus Safety will either start clearing away the snow or start pre-training for the potential ice, according to Hall. Pre-training involves salting sidewalks and major roads on campus. After this process and consulting with the provost, the vice president of administrative services makes the decision of if the campus will open late or not at all, according to the university’s Inclement Weather Procedure. Although road salt shortages have not been forecasted for this season, labor shortages may cause more delays for commuters as the Missouri Department of Transportation is experiencing an extensive shortage of workers. According to KMBC, a Kansas City news station,

MoDOT is having trouble finding new workers, and many of their current workers are inexperienced. This issue will cause a delay for roads to be salted and cleared after snow and icefall. MoDOT is not the only one experiencing labor shortages. Because of the smaller population of students on campus last year due to COVID-19, many positions within University Safety were left unfilled, according to Hall. This year with more students coming back to campus, filling those positions has proven a challenge, making handling winter weather even more difficult. “Within Campus Safety, we have two vacancies right now, which is not uncommon,” Hall said. “But it certainly makes it more challenging as it’s taking us longer to get individuals hired.” Although there are many precautions taken and plans in place to combat winter weather and to ensure the safety of students, being cautious while out in snow and ice is still necessary.

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THERE THEREHAS HASNEVER NEVERBEEN BEENAABETTER BETTER TIME TIMETO TOSTUDY STUDYCOMMUNICATION! COMMUNICATION! AAdegree degreeinincommunication communicationprepares preparesyou youto to work workininaawide widevariety varietyof offields fieldsand andindustries. industries.

Indeed, Indeed,aa2020 2020Georgetown GeorgetownUniversity University study, Workplace Workplace Basics: Basics:The The Competencies Competencies Employers , identified Want Want, identifiedcommunication communicationas asthe thesingle singlemost most sought soughtafter afterjob jobskill skillacross acrossall alloccupations. occupations.And And the thenext nextfour fourmost mostsought-after sought-afterskills skills––teamwork, teamwork, persuasion, persuasion,leadership, leadership,and andproblem-solving problem-solving––are are all allcentral centralto tothe thestudy studyof ofcommunication. communication. Similarly, Similarly,The ThePrinceton PrincetonReview Review recently recently rated rated communication communicationas asthe thesecond-best second-bestmajor majoron on college collegecampuses campusesbased basedon onthree threecriteria: criteria: 11. . Employability degree... Employabilityof ofgraduates graduates with with that degree. 22. . Earning Earningpotential potentialfor forgraduates graduateswith withthat thatdegree. degree. 33. . Enjoyment Enjoymentof ofmajor majorwhile whileinincollege. college. The TheDepartment DepartmentofofCommunication CommunicationatatMissouri MissouriState State University Universityhas hasaalong, long,rich richlegacy legacyand andan anaward-winning award-winning faculty. faculty.We Weare arecommitted committedtotothe thesuccess successofofour ourstudents studentsinin all allaspects aspectsofoftheir theirlives: lives:personal, personal,professional professionaland andpublic. public.

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