ONEVision Fall 2012 by Theta Nu Xi Multicultural Sorority, Inc.

Fall 2012

Put Your Hands Up For

Through the Eyes of a Butterfly:

My First National Convention By Tali Ramo Guest Writer

DETROIT a look back at

Convention

2012 pages 18-20

start planning now!

CONVENTION 2013

Atlantic City, New Jersey

As a relatively new sister, barely 9 months after my crossing, I attended Theta Nu Xi Multicultural Sorority, Incorporated’s National Convention in Detroit, Michigan. So much has changed since I began my process last Fall. I am fully realized but constantly growing and learning Butterfly. Right now, in the beginning of my first full semester as a Chapter Sister in the Resilient Rho Chapter and my new position as the Dean of Intake. Let me rewind to two months ago and paint you a picture. I am sitting with my graduated Chapter Sister, Soror Rosalie Aponte at LaGuardia airport in NYC, waiting to board my flight to Detroit. I am so ready to be there already. Are we there yet? I am ready to soak up as much knowledge and wisdom as I can from my older and more experienced Sisters. I am anxious to meet the National Board and other women whose names I have only read and learned. When I arrive at the gorgeous Henry Hotel in Dearborn, Michigan with Rosalie, my nerves are turning into excitement and I can’t wait for Convention to begin. Then, the music starts! Everyone’s heads start bobbing to the beat. “PUT YOUR HANDS UP. PUT YOUR HANDS UP FOR DETROIT!!” Then the flash mob

Continued on Page 17

What’s In This Edition? Oppupy a Voting Booth... The GFC & TNX RElationship... Loan Know How...

2 FROM THE PRESIDENT Dear Sisters, Staff Editor-In-Chief

Jamie Dawson

Senior Editor

Dara Monasch

Senior Designer

Jamie Dawson

Junior Designer

Nicole Bacchus Copy Editor

Anahita Sarshar Contributing Writers

Tanya Arditi Alyshia Dansby Ellen Goodacre Strawbry Jiles Rubi Morgan

Table of Contents

today on the heels of one of the most devastating natural disasters to occur on the East Coast in decades. From the Mid-Atlantic to the Northeast, many are suffering from massive flooding, the loss of power and total losses of their personal possessions. We have heard from many of our sorors in the effected region and most of them seem to have weathered the storm as best as possible. At times like these, when the very worst has happened, this when our very best is necessary. I hope that you will join me in helping both sisters and fellow citizens in the effected regions by donating to the Red Cross, volunteering to assist with storm clean-up, or wherever your special talents and gifts will help. After all, lifting up one another is one of the pillars of true sisterhood. For several months, the sisters on the OneVision staff have been working on this issue. It includes several great articles about how to take greater responsibility of your finances and your personal possessions. And, it’s apropos that it also discusses the importance of voter registration and voting. As many of you know, I have worked on campaigns for several years. I love Election Day. I remember going to the polling place with my mother and pulling the levers to cast her ballot. I was always excited to wear my “I Voted” sticker. And, it’s all so easy. Just a few minutes in line and we help shape the future of our city, state and country. We are small but powerful human beings. As an African-American woman, I never take for granted the sacrifices of blood, sweat and tears for this very basic right. I hope that all of you who are able to exercise this right will go to your polling place on November 6 (or before if you have Early Voting in your area) and cast your ballot. It is very simple and it can make all the difference in the world. ONE Love,

Cianti Stewart-Reid

Cover Features.................................... “My First National Convention”.............. 1 National President From the President............................. 2 Sisterhood Spotlight............................ 3 Featured Articles “Occupy A Voting Booth”.......................4 “Get Out the Vote”........................................7 Submit your chapter or personal highlights to “Girls & Women for a Change”............ 8 be included in the next issue of ONEVision! “What Makes a Butterfly”........................ 10 Email director.communications@thetanuxi.org with your chapter “Loan Know How”....................................... 12 or personal highlights and be sure to include a photo! “Sisterhood INK.”............................................14 “How to Take Care of Your Car”.......16 Do you have an idea that you’d like to see on “A Look Back at Convention 2012”......18 the pages of the next issue of ONEVision? Chapter Highlights................................20

we want to hear from you!

Contact director.communications@thetanuxi.org with your idea or to inquire about being a Guest Writer for an upcoming issue!

Image courtesy of Google Images.

I hope this message finds you well. I write to you

SISTERHOOD SPOTLIGHT 3 Why did you want to join Theta Nu Xi?

I learned about Theta Nu Xi as an undergraduate from Soror Rabia Abdulmajeed. We worked together on campus through student government and she shared her enthusiasm for joining a multicultural Sorority. During this same time Soror Amanda Tomchak, who was the National President at the time, worked on my campus and I had the opportunity to meet her during a tabling event. I exchanged information with her and she linked me with the Tau chapter. When I started my undergraduate career at Arizona State University I had no intention of being part of Greek life; I honestly didn’t know much about Sororities. After attending a few interest meetings my sophomore year for NPHC organizations I felt like they didn’t offer what I was looking for, so it wasn’t until my fourth year at ASU that I sought out membership with Theta Nu Xi. I wanted to join because the women I interacted with while attending interest meetings were so inviting and down to earth. The Tau Chapters Sisters at the time made me feel like they were building bonds with me and creating the foundation for friendship and Sisterhood. I loved that they continued to seek out my interest and communicate with me although I was a year from graduating.

What is one thing that makes you totally different from everyone else?

One thing that makes me different from everyone else is that I’m a genuinely easy-going person. I try my hardest to remain calm under pressure and set an example for everyone else. I enjoy being the person that people feel comfortable going to in order to seek out guidance or advice. I really enjoy the relationships I have with my friends, family, and Sisters.

How has being a member of Theta Nu Xi helped you in your career or personal life?

Theta Nu Xi has provided me with invaluable knowledge about professionalism, group dynamics, and patience. I think people underestimate how much professional growth occurs when you are a member of a National Organization. The expectations for professionalism are high in Theta Nu Xi,

and I love that our organization is large, but small enough to allow a number of leadership opportunities from the local, regional, and national level. I feel like Theta Nu Xi continues to invest in the future of current Sisters while recruiting future Sisters. The lessons I’ve learned while being a member, I take back with me to work and graduate studies. Joining Theta Nu Xi happened at the perfect time in my life when I was soon to graduate from ASU and needed a foundation to grow from. Theta Nu Xi provided a platform for growth, maturity, integrity, and Sisterhood.

Describe an unforgettable Theta Nu Xi.

The most unforgettable memory I’ve had in Theta Nu Xi was the moment I crossed. It was such a beautiful experience that I will never take for granted. The women I grew close to during my Intake Process will be in my life forever.

Tell us about a recent goal you’ve accomplished.

A recent goal I accomplished was becoming more financially smart and stable. While I was an undergrad I made the mistake of opening up multiple credit cards and I didn’t take the time to educate myself about credit and finance. Since graduating, I’ve paid off all of my credit card debt and have managed to sustain savings that will be there whenever I need them. Young people, especially women, should work diligently to educate themselves about the pros and cons of having credit. It’s fun to go shopping and live in the moment, but we really have to invest in our financial future and create a culture of SAVING money, not just SPENDING money.

What do you do to exemplify or live multiculturalism every day?

I strive to continue to learn about diversity in all of its forms. I enjoy learning about people’s backgrounds because I feel it opens avenues of understanding and compassion. I love researching other cultures and listening to music from all over the world. I also jump at any opportunity to experience cultural events with my Chapter Sisters. I think multiculturalism is a shared experience and I enjoy sharing multiculturalism and diversity with the ones I love.

Ashley Patrice-Rose Sherman #4 saucy Fresh Fall 2010 | Tau Chapter

4 FEATURED ARTICLE

Where will you be on November 6th, 2012?

Image courtesy of Google Images.

By Tanya S. Arditi Contributing Writer

FEATURED ARTICLE 5 Today I looked around and it hit empowered life is a political act, and in me: everything is eerily quiet and order to keep this life, we must vote.” entirely too calm. Isn’t it supposed to be Then she said, “Own your story of the exact opposite during the month before the Election? Shouldn’t we all be DOING things, talking to people, getting excited about our fundamental and hard-earned right? That’s EXACTLY what’s happening all around me. My office is quiet because half the staff has taken time off from work to volunteer for political campaigns, to be on the field getting people to register and making sure they know when, where, why, andhow to vote, to light the fire of civic duty and responsibility everywhere and wherever they can. I don’t work in a place that is directly tied to politics, but people I work with feel so strongly about voting that there is an overwhelming sense of responsibility all around me to vote - no matter who you’re voting for. Just vote. Voting isn’t just at the heart of the American experience; it’s at the heart of Theta Nu Xi. Women and men of all races, colors, religions, backgrounds, and lifestyles have fought - many given their lives - for the opportunity to participate in the social contract we create when we engage with our government and exercise our right to vote. I spoke with a few of my colleagues and asked them for their thoughts on the matter; one of them told me something that I couldn’t help but relate back to my own family… “Many of our stories of immigration and activism are rooted in the pursuit of a better life, of Images courtesy of Google Images. a life in a place where we could be empowered and free. The act of engagement. This story will catch on.” coming to a country in search of an I was 10 the first year I

consciously remember my mom actively participating in the Presidential elections in my country of birth, Paraguay. It took her a full election cycle after the coup d’etat against the Dictator - Alfredo Stroessner - to get up the courage to vote. Stroessner had been “president” of Paraguay for 35 years before his successor threw him out, which made the 1993 elections the first free elections to elect the first civilian president in 39 years. Paraguay’s dictatorship period was the last one to fall in South America, and Fidel Castro is the only Latin American leader with a longer tenure than Stroessner. My mother grew up in a military state, and to this day she doesn’t feel comfortable criticizing the President of the country where she lives the United States of America - because that kind of talk could get you in trouble back then. It’s not that she doesn’t know that it’s okay because she’s protected by Free Speech, she lives in a free country, and that’s something you can do in a democracy. It’s just that she’s almost hard-wired. Which brings me back to my own story and my own responsibility... How can I afford to not vote when in my own lifetime my mother went from never voting because it made no difference in a military state where the dictator was reelected 7 times - to plastering her car with posters of one of the candidates and participating in a caravan through the city while I held a flag of the opposition party out the window? We have several Sisters who are extremely passionate about politics and voting. Amanda Pohl, who was recently voted in as Mid-

6 FEATURED ARTICLE

Image courtesy of Google Images.

Atlantic Regional Director, says that Sisters have to keep in mind the issues that are most important to each of them. “I’m voting because my voice is important and voting is one great equalizer. Every person has just one vote and therefore every person has the same power to affect change. It’s the one part of our political process where every person, no matter what income level or education or charisma he or she has, gets only one voice. I care, so I vote.” Fortunately, we live in a country where there are countless resources an individual can take advantage of, not only to inform ourselves, but arm ourselves with enough information to help get those around us to vote. But like our National PresiAbove: 2012 Presidental Candiates Mitt Romney and Barack Obama. dent, Cianti Stewart-Reid warns, “Take everything you many others. but then they forget that corporations are read with a grain of salt. Remember that “I think the most important isa part of that group, as are the wealthiest 2 each side is doing their best to persuade sues of this election are health care and percent.” you, so listen to both. Do your research the economy,” says Pohl. “I believe that As I’ve said before, the question and then make the decision you think best everyone should have health care. When is not whether to vote or not, it’s which reflects your values.” I think about health care, I’m also includcandidate will get your vote. Whatever you do, don’t become ing women’s health rights, like the right “At the end of the day,” says complacent. Like another colleague of to choose to carry a pregnancy to term. I Cianti, “we are all trying to better the mine said to me, “In this life, you don’t know there are a lot of conflicting opincountry we love. We just have different remember unless someone reminds you.” ions out there among our nation and in our ideas on how we get there.” If Theta Nu Xi as an organization existed Sorority, but the bottom line is no matter I don’t see voting as a right. I see in the 1920s, I have no doubt we would’ve how we personally feel about abortion, do voting as a responsibility. Our responsibilbeen part of the movement to help women we really want the government making ity to honor those who thought voting was achieve the right to vote. As such, it is that decision for us? Do we really think worth dying for, and our responsibility imperative that we fight the biggest threat that someone who has never been in our to ensure that we make our voice heard to this right that we have encountered in shoes is the best person to make those to give an opportunity for a better life to ages: Apathy. There are too many imdecisions?” those who will inherit this land of ours portant issues affecting us today to allow And then there’s the economy, after we’re gone. apathy to take away our right to vote. which you should be paying attention to Consider the state of our economy and whether you’re in college or a working Resources: what that means for our future and our professional, whether you live in a dorm, www.rockthevote.org children’s future. Consider health care in your parents’ house, on your own, or www.votolatino.org laws and the repercussions the current with your family. www.projectvote.org political arguments and atmosphere can “Right now,” says Pohl, “corpora- www.lovevoting.org have on our health, our decisions, and our tions in the U.S. are sending jobs overwww.Virginia-organizing.org bodies. Consider the potential effects to seas while paying no taxes and getting www.isidewith.com our country’s social services and the kinds tax credits when they ship jobs overseas! Each party’s websites of programs so many of us Sisters view After this last recession, we have moved as essential to the fight against poverty, into a new paradigm and things will never Remember: against lack of education, against hunger, be as they were before. Politicians want to Register! and against discrimination, among so complain about people not paying taxes Have your (valid!) Driver’s License

FEATURED ARTICLE 7

Get Out The Voting Directly Effects YOU...

It’s that time of year. All across the nation, tables are set up, clip boards are ready. At parks and on campus, in the mall and the DMV, they’re there. All across America, people are registering to vote. This year, thousands of Americans are hearing about, talking about, and registering for the 2012 presidential elections. While some eligible voters are enthused to register themselves, others may need a little encouragement. For that reason, student and community organizations across the country have been hosting events and tabling during the Fall to register people to vote. “[It’s hard] getting people to realize that voting is their job,” SerToria Johnson, member of the Xi Iota chapter, said. “Getting people to invest in themselves and the community and securing a venue that is neutral enough for a diverse audience,” are only some of the challenges that need to be overcome when attempting to organize a voter registration drive. Johnson helped to host a voter registration event this fall called “Rock ‘N’ Register.” Johnson is the owner of AliasRoosee, a public relations and publications firm and the co-founder of iCSC Media Group. These companies are affiliates of the Hope Renewed Youth Conference Project, a community organization. “My companies are affiliates of the HRYC project and during a recent conversation she [Sherry Cannon, Executive Director of HRYC] thought we should release some PSAs about the importance of registering to vote,” Johnson said. “After about an hour of conversation, we decided we should do a registration concert. Using my

connections with the local music scene… in about 48hrs we had all the artist[s] committed and support from the local chapter of Rock the Vote. We called up Jesse Reynolds, member of Men of Color, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, and author. He secured the venue at Bradley University.” According to the US Census Bureau, over 146 million people registered to vote during the 2008 presidential election and 63 percent of registered voters made it to the polls. Moreover, voter turnout for voters 18-24 increased to 49 percent from 47 percent in 2004. “On a day where we’re in a high traffic area, we get a lot of people to register,” said Brittany Thompson, Campus Organizer for the New Voter Project at the University of Houston. “We were at PGH yesterday from 11am to 12:30 and we got 40 students to register.” Registering people to vote is an important part of the American political process. In general, those who do not register often don’t have the means to go register, don’t know how to register, or feel they will be unable to make it to the polls on Election Day. This is why voter registration drives and events are helpful and informative for citizens. “On campus, students are often busy and have a lot of responsibilities. Sometimes, those living on

campus my not have transportation and are unable to leave campus to register,” Thompson said, “These events make registering accessible.” But while voter registration drives may be able to boast numbers, some may wonder if these events are simply empowering a populous that may be unaware of the issues that most involve their communities. “There are people on hand discussing hot topic issues of the upcoming election,” Johnson said. “Our PSAs that aired two weeks prior to the event touched on some of those issues.” Those registering are often given information or handouts regarding the election’s top issues. “One of the big ones for college students is student loan rates,” Thompson said. “College affordability is a big issue right now and students need to be informed about how these interest rates for student loans will affect things like Pell Grants and Financial aid.” Registrants may also visit websites like OurTime.org or USPIRG. org or VoteSmart.org to learn more about the issues affecting their demographic.

Images courtesy of Google Images.

By Ellen Goodacre Contributing Writer

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Girls & Women for a Change: The GFC and TNX Relationship By Tanya S. Arditi Contributing Writer Theta Nu Xi’s relationship with Girls for A Change (GFC) is still in its infancy, and yet I know many of us can’t imagine our national philanthropy being any organization other than GFC. Through the years in our partnership with GFC we have fundraised, we have promoted GFC events and programs, we have volunteered our time and we have been intricately involved with ground-level programming, becoming certified to run GFC Change the World trainings in our communities. GFC was adopted as our national philanthropy in 2008, following a request for proposals from organizations that our general membership submitted and the philanthropy selection committee narrowed down. The decision was made to request proposals in order to ensure that they knew we were selecting them as our philanthropy, but also so they knew we were interested in a two-way relationship, and they wanted our support and partnership as much as we wanted to give it. About 5 organizations responded with proposals, and were subsequently invited to attend our national convention to present their case to the delegates, who then voted. This was a new method of selection for our Sorority, which was adopted in order to ensure that there was communication and commitment from the philanthropy early on to ensure that our efforts were not in vain. Although philanthropy is defined purely as providing monetary support, many of our members expressed a desire to have more of a partnership with our national philanthropy, with service opportunities and opportunities to collaborate on programming. Which takes us to our partnership with GFC today... “Girls for A Change has truly been a partnership over the

last four years,” says Sharon Cacurak, Regional Officer of Intake & Expansion, West, and former member of the philanthropy selection committee that worked on the GFC partnership process. “We include each other in news and publicity, and some of our sisters have had the opportunity to work on community outreach programs in areas GFC is located.” As Cacurak puts it, the idea behind the partnership was also to help GFC increase not only their funding but also their grassroots efforts in new communities by training our members and having them volunteer. GFC’s CEO and Founder Whitney Smith and National Program Director Ashley Antaya are both huge supporters of our mission, and they, as well as so many members of our Sorority, feel GFC is a good fit for us because our missions are so well aligned. Just look at them side by side: Girls For A Change Theta Nu Xi GFC empowers girls for

To promote leadership,

personal and social

multiculturalism and

transformation. The

self-improvement through

program inspires girls to have the voice,

academic excellence, involvement in and

ability and problem

service to the campus

solving capacity to speak

and community, as well as

up, be decision makers,

being living examples of

create visionary change

sisterhood across different

and realize their full

races, cultures, religions,

potential.

backgrounds and lifestyles.

FEATURED ARTICLE 9 “Our partnership is strongly rooted in ideals that are values for both Theta Nu Xi and Girls For A Change,” says Antaya. “Sisterhood, leadership, multiculturalism and service are particular ideals that are on the forefront of the work being done. Those values hold true for both partners internally and ripple out in the work we do in the community and with girls, making our partnership very unique.” The GFC partnership also transcends political categories, for example, among others, which is important for us as a multicultural organization to be sensitive to, thus ensuring that we are not asking any of our members to support a cause they cannot philosophically support. Antaya, who attended our last convention in Detroit this year to present the Alpha Lambda and Xi Gamma chapters with

base, now it’s time to enter the next phase of our relationship and make it grow. Just like many Sisters wish to be involved at an even higher level with GFC, they see our partnership growing in that same direction. “I would like to see more Theta Nu Xi members trained to do GFC Change Your World trainings or start teams with girls in their local communities,” says Antaya. Change your World trainings include teaching girls what social change is and showing girls examples of a diverse group of social change makers. 400 women and over 2,500 girls are given these tools, meant to create change in their community, through the trainings. “As members are spread out nationally there is a high potential to reach and serve girls where GFC programming has not been,” says Antaya. “I think it would be incredible to have

Top Left: Literature from the GFC program. Top Right & Bottom Left: Participants in a GFC Program in San Jose, CA. Bottom Right: GFC’s Ashley Antaya with the award winners for the highest philanthropic contributions at our

2012 Convention in Detroit (Undergraduate: Alpha Lambda, GAP: Xi Gamma). an award for highest philanthropic contribution, was extremely impressed by the women she encountered there. “The women of Theta Nu Xi really do embody inclusivity within [S]isterhood. I think people tend to have an image in their minds of what a [S]orority [S]ister is supposed to look like or be and that image tends to be homogenized, a tremendous generalization. The ideal of multiculturalism brings so much richness and love to the [S]orority just as I feel it does for communities, schools, households, etc. When someone in the room calls out “Theta Nu!” and the room collectively responds with “ONE LOVE!”, there is no denying the power and the feeling that is behind it.” We’ve set strong foundations and worked on a tight

members serve as GIrl Action Team Coaches or interns in areas where we do have direct programming, like Silicon Valley, Richmond, and Phoenix. There is no better way to experience ‘the magic’ of GFC until you’re using the program in some capacity with girls. I believe that the girls and Theta Nu Xi members would really enjoy that experience, as well as acquire skills that can be applied in their professional and personal lives.” ONE Vision wants to hear from you! Please submit short descriptions/pictures/stories about your chapter’s or your personal involvement/programs/philanthropic efforts with Girls for A Change for a special section in our next issue to director.communications@thetanuxi.org!

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Butterfly

What Makes A

By Alyshia Dansby Contributing Writer When a woman makes any decision regarding her personal, academic, or even professional life, she is scrutinized under the most powerful microscope, simply because she is female. She is judged for her actions, expectations of her are incredibly high, and she likely receives input and advice for the path she should follow in life from all kinds of sources. So when a woman contemplates becoming Greek, she is instantly pulled in every possible direction. A friend may belong to an Organization on campus and may attempt to influence her decision based on their friendship; her mother may want her to join the Sorority she pledged in college so she’s able to carry on the legacy, her roommate may think she “fits in” with the Sorority her sister joined

when she went to school – there are a plethora of influences weighing on her shoulders.. The peer pressures are endless and unfortunately in many instances can ultimately lead to a choice the woman herself… didn’t make. Instead of the stereotypical, superficial topics such as skin color, parties, beauty, the misconception, “every sorority girl is rude or acts superior ,“ succumbing to the idea of “this is what my ________ wants me to do,” each individual woman should use her own personal criteria to select a Greek Sisterhood. Interested ladies should look in their hearts, their souls, their minds, and search for what defines them and endeavor to find a Sisterhood that promotes her values. Using this as her compass, her decision should be based on matching an organization with her

beliefs, her values, and most of all; it should reflect who she is as an individual. The Butterflies of Theta Nu Xi Multicultural Sorority, Incorporated strive to embody this essence of individuality, while at the same time openly celebrating the originality of others, making us excellent representations of what it truly means to be Greek. Marina Shalabi, a Butterfly from the University of Arizona, has definitely experienced the issues associated with being a part of a significantly smaller Organization on campus, and has had to personally combat stereotypes surrounding that issue as well as others. “When people hear that you are in a Sorority on this campus, they automatically think of the “mainstream” organizations that have a house with more than 100 members,” Marina said. Shalabi also stated that a few

FEATURED ARTICLE 11

Image courtesy of Google Images.

common fallacies surrounding Sororities include expectations that members partake in excessive partying, display ignorance, and the neglect of their education. These labels that can definitely mislead women in their decision to either join or turn away from our Organization. However, she feels that by carrying oneself with respect and constantly demonstrating that Theta Nu Xi has a plethora of positive things to offer, she and her Chapter Sisters have the power to be excellent Greek representations. Natasha Kugel, a Chapter Founder from Virginia Commonwealth University, is also a firm believer in leading by example. Kugel feels that it is crucial to educate others on the negativity of stereotypes and how kindness and a collective effort to make a change can have a very positive influence. “When people see the Sisters of Theta Nu Xi holding events and forums to educate others about the stereotypes that are out there, not only are we combating these stereotypes[,] we are helping others to understand why they should do the same,“ Kugel stated. “When these people see me in my letters acting like myself and being kind to others… they can learn from my example just like they can learn from any of my Sisters on campus.” Kugel feels that being Greek is about representing something you believe in and setting positive examples in order to be a great leader on campus and in the community. The women above are just a sampling of Sisters within our ever-expanding Organization who definitely believe that stereotypes surrounding sororities and Greek life in general can be obliterated by educating, being proud representations, and by ultimately not losing sight of oneself. All women have a story, a passion, a desire to be better. These characteristics and so many more… are what make Butterflies simply inspiring.

Staff Acknowledgement Thank you to the following women for their dedication in bringing our National Newsletter to life!

Jamie Dawson

Dara Monasch

Nicole Bacchus

Nu, Spring 2003

Alpha Theta, Spring 2009

Senior Editor

Junior Designer

Anahita Sarshar

Tanya Arditi

Alyshia Dansby

Editor-In-Chief

Copy Editor

Writer

Rho, Spring 2009

Writer

Alpha Kappa, Spring 2010

Xi Gamma, Spring 2010

Omicron, Spring 2012

Ellen Goodacre

Strawbry Jiles

Rubi Morgan

Writer

Omicron, Spring 2012

Writer

Xi Alpha, Fall 2011

Writer

Omicron, Spring 2011

we want to hear from you!

Submit your chapter or personal highlights to be included in the next issue of ONEVision!

Email director.communications@thetanuxi.org with your chapter or personal highlights and be sure to include a photo!

Do you have an idea that you’d like to see on the pages of the next issue of ONEVision? Contact director.communications@thetanuxi.org with your idea or to inquire about being a Guest Writer for an upcoming issue!

12 FEATURED ARTICLE

Loan Know How:

Image courtesy of Google Images.

What You Need to Know Before Taking Out a Loan

FEATURED ARTICLE 13 By Strawbry Jiles Contributing Writer Going to college is one of the most exciting times in your life; it is also one of the priciest, especially for those students who aren’t fortunate enough to pay their own way. While some students do qualify for financial aid, others unfortunately will have to take alternative routes to help pay for their education. The primary alternative way is through various types of loans. However, before you start filling out any loan applications, there are certain things that you need to know. This article will give you a rundown of loan basics, but you should continue to do your own research and choose the option that is right for you. The first thing you should know is what type of loan you are applying for. Not everyone qualifies for the same types of loans. One student may be able eligible for more than one loan while another student may not. In saying so, there are three different loans to choose from: Stafford loans, Perkins loans and Parent PLUS loans. A Stafford loan is awarded to students who are enrolled in Images courtesy of Google Images. college at least half time, have completed the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), and have demonstrated sufficient financial need. With a Stafford loan, you have a choice between a subsidized and unsubsidized loan. If you choose to go with a subsidized loan, the government will pay the interest accumulated while you are still in school; an unsubsidized loan will result with you paying the interest you have accumulated

while in school. If you are in the same position as I was, you unfortunately might have to take out both. Perkins loans are another type of loan offered by the government on a need basis. Perkins loans are subsidized, which means the government pays the interest rate while the student is still in school. While most loans give you a six month grace period after you graduate for repayment, Perkins loans give you nine months.

education. Taking out this loan will result in interest being charged on the date of the first disbursement. One thing to know about this loan is that they do require credit checks, so if your parents have bad credit, then you will most likely not be eligible for this loan. The second thing you should know is that it is never wise to take out more money than you need. Most people forget that you have to pay your loans back after your six month grace period and because it seems easy, they take out more money than they need to buy unnecessary things. My advice to you is if you do take out more money than is needed for tuition; make sure that money is going towards something productive like those expensive text books we all have to buy. Another suggestion I would make, Above: although I didn’t Members of Occupy Wall Street movement display their follow this advice student loan debts around their myself, is that if you necks while demonstrating. do receive a refund check, start paying back your loans with the extra money you just received. This will help decrease the amount you will have to pay after graduation and will get you into the habit of paying back your loans on time. Last but not least, when you do decide on which loan is right for you, make sure to The interest rate for this loan is 5% for read the awards letter they send you and a ten year repayment period. One thing definitely pay very close attention to the to know about this loan is that the time entrance counseling that all direct loan period it is available unfortunately varies borrowers require the student to complete from school to school, which means it is in order to receive their funds. This will at the school’s discretion on who to award ensure that you and/or your parent(s) are this loan to. not accepting a financial aid package that Unlike Stafford and Perkins, is more than you thought you would be Parent PLUS loans allow the parent(s) to repaying. Doing your research and choostake out large amounts of money, even ing the right loan for you will help you up to the full cost of the student’s college and your family in the long run.

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Sisterhood,

INK. By Rubi Morgan Contributing Writer

of Theta Nu Xi Multicultural Sorority, Incorporated have tattoos devoted to the Sorority. Some of these ladies take the respect of their Sorority tattoos to the extreme, refusing to drink or curse since they donned them. Others view the tattoos as a simple reminder of their dedication or affection. One sister from our Alpha Beta Chapter, Soror Meredith Booker, is proud

to say she specifically got her Theta Nu Xi tattoo close to her heart for a reason: “It’s a constant reminder of the state of mind that comes with ‘one love.’ It’s a state of mind that learns from all people and loves all people equally, as one.” Sisters around the nation have various tattoos representing their beloved Organization. Most get popular phrases

Image courtesy of Google Images.

What are the major milestones of your eighteenth birthday? Graduation from high school; the promise of an unrestricted license that pronounces unlimited freedom; and finally, the right to decorate your body with permanent art, known as tattoos. Tattoos are punctures into the dermal layer of your skin, filled with ink from tiny, high speed needles. They’re painful, they get infected, and in seventeen percent of all tattoo cases, people admit to having some regret about getting their most recent tattoo. So why bother getting a tattoo? Overwhelmingly, the top three answers are that tattoos make people feel more rebellious, sexy, and even more intelligent. Tattoos have the effect of making a person feel unique, like they have done something no one ever has. People get tattoos of flowers, names of lovers and family, and quotes of meaningful sayings. One of the newest popular trends is getting tattoos dedicated or in deference to to your Greek organization. A significant amount of Sisters

FEATURED ARTICLE 15 such as “One Love.” Others prefer to get the official seal or a simple butterfly, depending on their personal preferences. Many Sisters find the entire concept resonates with the reasons they stay active within the Sorority; when asked about her

tattoo, Soror Om’Breanna Abner-Davis said, “tattoos are permanent and my love for Theta Nu Xi is permanent.” So what does this mean in the future? Will the increasing amount of Sorority-related tattoos bring about

discussions or legislation for how members act with letters or Sorority symbols permanently etched on their bodies? Or is this simply a display of the lifelong dedication to what you have worked for as a member of Theta Nu Xi?

Theta Nu Xi Inspired Tattoos

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16 FEATURED ARTICLE How to Take Care of Your Car

A Road Trip The sun is hot on your neck and your hair is sticky with sweat. There is smoke in your face and all of a sudden the Texas Chainsaw Massacre seems all too real. Where is that gentlemanly samaritan to pop open the hood with ease and fix the- what was it called again? Transmission? Or the engine block? The holidays are coming up and everyone is trying to burn rubber to see family and friends. After all, road trips can be fun and adventurous, full of memories you will never forget; however, they can also be treacherous for anyone going out unprepared. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t fall victim to a bad road trip! Learn how to check, protect, and prepare your car now!

Mile One:

Check Your Fluids

Check all your fluids - Before any long distance traveling, you should always make sure to check the amount of coolant/

antifreeze in your car. This fluid is meant to prevent the water in your radiator from overheating in the humid summer and freezing in the brittle winter. It also functions as a type of lubricant between the active mechanics rubbing together as you drive. You should also check your engine oil, transmission fluid, and brake

fluid. All of these different liquids are meant to keep your car running smoothly and can solely determine the outcome of any unforeseen accident. Acquaint yourself with the various dipsticks under

your hood to make sure all your fluids are adequate.

Mile Two:

Check Your Tires

Most people donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t realize how worn their tires get from daily driving. Just to be safe, tires should be replaced every 40,000 miles. Of course, this amount changes based on how you drive (screeching through intersections versus below-the-limit driving in the slow lane) and on the smoothness of the roads you tend to frequent. In general, once your detailed tread lines on your tire begin to significantly wear, lessening the traction

Images courtesy of Google Images.

By Rubi Morgan Contributing Writer

FEATURED ARTICLE 17 while you drive, it’s time for some new rubbers.

Mile Three:

Prepare Your

Roadside Survival Kit While a flare gun, a week’s worth of food, and camping gear could be incredibly handy if you become stranded in the wilderness of the Adirondacks, just a few items are truly essential in a crisis. Always keep your insurance card, car warranty papers, and car service contact numbers in a place you can find it. If you feel you need a tow truck, this information will be immediately requested. Next, a flashlight is a staple for breakdowns in the evening. Without one, not only will you be unable to detect problems in your car, other cars will be unable to spot you on the road. Jumper cables and a spare tire are always great to

have; most cars are provided with these emergency tools at the dealership when you buy them. Lastly, you should keep water in your car at all times. In case of overheating, you’ll need the extra water for your radiator. Just keep these items close and no situation will be too difficult. So worry about all of these things ? Why are they important? As females, most people do not expected that we will know how to handle most car catastrophes. In many cases, we don’t even have to because it’s frighteningly easy to find a willing soul eager to help. However, no one should settle for ignorant bliss. Being educated on your vehicle and its inner workings can do nothing but good in the future.

My First National Convention,

Continued From Page 1

ways. It took rejection from an elected position in high school for me to understand that you don’t need to hold a position on an executive board to be a leader, and I have tried ever since to be a leader for my peers through my values and actions. Since becoming a Sister, I have taken on the position of Dean of Intake and I cannot wait to take on regional and national positions as a GAP Sister. My first National Convention 2012 in Detroit had everything I could have wanted: great times with my Sisters, an opportunity to learn and to contribute to my Sorority, and of course, DANCING! I can’t wait what next year’s convention in my region, the Noble Northeast, has to offer!

began. The women surrounding me with the lavender and carolina blue boas start doing the most infectious dance lead by the one and only semi-professional dancer, Shauma Brown!! And that was the moment I knew that National Convention 2012 was going to be the BEST weekend ever. After everyone was sufficiently danced out, we had a general meeting, learned about the NMGC, and then it was time for legislation . It was my first National legislation experience but with my Chapter Sister Kimberly Dodson and a delegate gift bag full of treats and supplies from my Big Dara Monasch, I was ready to get down to butterfly business. I really enjoyed the legislation process because I felt that it was my first opportunity to truly understand the inner workings of the Sorority. Convention as a whole was a good Above: Soror Tali Ramo (far left) with sisters at 2012 Convention in Detroit. opportunity to see the National Board of Directors in action Below: Tali (second from right) with Rho and and catch a glimpse of what my Xi XI Chapter sisters at Convention. future might hold.

Leadership is a tenet that I’ve held close to my heart since before I became a Sister and I have embraced it and enacted it in so many different

Check out Page 18 & 19 for a look back at the 2012 Convention!

18 FEATURED ARTICLE

Put Your Hands Up For

DETROIT a look back at

Convention 2012