A magazine for new students at the University of Houston
magazine
Straight to the top Our University has a date with destiny
LIVE FOR THE GAME Cougars are bringing the fire
VILLAGE PEOPLE Brand new spaces for fresh faces
SUMMER 10 | VOLUME 21
UNIVERSITY EYE INSTITUTE
If you have UH student insurance you can receive a comprehensive eye exam at NO cost to you. To schedule a comprehensive eye exam please call 713 • 743 • 2021
UNIVERSITY of HOUSTON
www.uei.uh.edu
Entrance #2 Monday-Friday 8 a.m.- 6 p.m.
4901 Calhoun
INSTITUTE
EYE
EI
WELCOME T O
T H E
P R I D E
MY FelloW CoUgARSAs another academic year gets under way at the University of Houston, I want to salute our many returning students and offer a heartfelt greeting to our new students.
Welcome, one and all, to the Cougar family. We’re confident that our world-class programs and diverse campus environment will encourage your pursuit of academic excellence and provide a clear competitive edge when you embark on a career.
Thank you for choosing UH. Your experiences here can change your life significantly and provide memories you will never forget. This is a time filled with promise and potential. I urge you to make the most of it. So, once again, welcome to the University of Houston.
Welcome to the Pride.
Renu Khator President, University of Houston
www.uh.edu/president
4
BUILDING UP
See what direction UH is taking in the coming years.
//24
Picking a Major // 10 Quick-start your career by choosing the major that best suits you.
UH Traditions // 20 Learn about what makes this school unique.
CAREER Services // 14 Get the most out of what the university has to offer.
FRESH FOOD CO. // 30 Some new ideas for campus dining. are coming to Moody Towers.
TRANSITIONS • 2010
TABLE OF CONTENTS 5
COUGAR VILLAGE
//26
All the information you could want about the new dorm.
STADIUM UPDATE
//43
UH has big plans for their stadiums.
TYRON CARRIER
//46
All Conference USA Team - two 1,000 yard seasons, talks about his start with the school.
CITY LIFE // 36 See what the city of Houston has to offer students.
Art on Campus // 48 Making school a beautiful place.
GO UH // 40 UH Athletics takes student excitement to the next level.
BUCKET LIST // 53 Find out what you need to do before you leave UH. 2010 • TRANSITIONS
What should I major in? Find your niche @ CLASS.
MAJORS Anthropology Art
All Level Teacher Certification Art History Art Graphic Communications Painting Photography/Digital Media Sculpture
Communication
Advertising Corporate Communication Health Communication (Public Health Promotion, Health Care Delivery) Interpersonal Communication Journalism (Broadcast or Print Media) Media Production Media Studies Public Relations
Communication Sciences & Disorders Economics English
Creative Writing Linguistics Literary’ Studies Secondary Teacher Certification - English Arts
Hispanic Studies
Spanish Secondary Teacher Certification - Spanish
Our Academic Affairs Center *is located in Room 320 of Agnes Arnold Hall. For more information call 713-743-4001 or visit www.class.uh.edu
History
MINORS
Liberal Studies Modern & Classical Languages
African American Studies Air Force Leadership (Air Force ROTC) Anthropology Art
History Secondary Teacher Certification - History and Social Studies
Classical Studies French German German Area Studies Italian Studies Secondary Teacher Certification in French, German and Italian Studies
Music
Applied Music (Instrumental, Vocal, Piano, Organ, Percussion Performance) Music Theory Music Composition
Bachelor of Music with Elective Studies in 1. All Level Teacher Certification - choral, piano, voice or instrument 2. Music Business 3. Music Religion
Philosophy Political Science Psychology Sociology Theatre & Dance
Acting/Directing Dance Design Technology Teacher Certification Dance Only
Studio Art Art History
Communication
Advertising Corporate Communication Film Studies Health Communication Interpersonal Communication Journalism Media Production Media Studies Public Relations
Communication Sciences & Disorders Economics English Hispanic Studies
Spanish Spanish for Business Professionals
History
Latin American Studies American Cultures
Interdisciplinary Arts Mexican American Studies Military Science (Army ROTC)
Modern & Classical Languages
Chinese Classical Studies French French for BusinessRelated Professionals German German Area Studies Greek Italian Latin World Cultures and literatures
Music Naval Science (Navy ROTC) Philosophy Political Science Values, Law and Policy
Psychology Religious Studies Sociology Theatre & Dance Dance
Women’s Studies Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Transgender Studies
Division of stuDent
AffAirs
Supporting student success Campus Activities Campus Recreation Center for Students with DisABILITIES Challenger Program Child Care Center Counseling and Psychological Services Dean of Students Office Health Center International Student and Scholar Services Learning and Assessment Services Learning Support Services Measurement and Evaluation Services Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs Parent Education Program Religion Center Residential Life and Housing Student Publications University of Houston Wellness University Career Services UC and Associated Facilities University Testing Services Urban Experience Program Veterans’ Services Office
713-743-5390 www.uh.edu/dsa
We’re here for you!
TRANSITIONS • 2010
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into a four-year university that might someday rival in-town counterpart Rice University.
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t its inception in June 1927, the University of Houston (then known as the Houston Junior College) had only 230 students and eight faculty members and didn’t even have its own building.
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is the third-largest institution in the state of Texas in terms of enrollment (37,000 stuEighty-three years later, the vision has come to fruition as the University of Houston
dents) and the flagship university of the UH System, which includes four separate four-
year universities, two multi-institution teaching centers, a public broadcast educational
television station (KUHT-TV) and a distance learning program.
Houston Junior College was a patchwork operation that carried no guarantees for public universities from its humble beginnings as the Houston Junior College? Well, as But just how did UH achieve such an improbable rise through the ranks of Texas’
long-term success. the following timeline suggests, it took a lot of patience, good fortune and visionary
ger and better things. thinking by Oberholtzer and other UH leaders to send the university on its way to big-
is a
61
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Edison Ellsworth Oberholtzer was HISD’s superintendent when he envisioned UH.
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Known around campus as “E. Cullen”, the Exekiel Cullen Building opened in 1950 housing classrooms as well as administrative offices.
Bottom, from left: When KUHT began broadcasting in 1952, it was the nation’s first educational TV station. Warren McVea evaded defenders and naysayers alike in 1964 when he became UH’s first black football player. Marguerite Ross Barnett took office in 1990, the first black woman to lead a major American university.
2010 • TRANSITIONS
cam p us . l ivin g
10
G N I S O CHO R O J A AM
Find your path to success amongst one of the many majors offered at the University of Houston
BY \\ MATTHEW KEEVER
C
hoosing a major is no easy task, nor is it something to be taken lightly. Your chosen major will (in some cases, at least) decide for you how you’re going to spend the rest of your life. But that doesn’t mean it can’t be fun. And if it’s fun, that doesn’t mean you can’t
to impress your parents while doing what you love. Kendra Berglund, an education junior, is also the photo editor of The Daily Cougar, and while her degree plan doesn’t require her to do so, she also takes photojournalism classes when she has the time. “It keeps me sane and balanced,” Berglund says. “Although your major is some-
make money doing it. Now, I can not in good conscience suggest any freshman major
thing you can love — because I do love teaching — photography has always been
in underwater basket-weaving (and no, that’s not a real major at the University of
something that I’ve loved, and I wanted to get involved with it… it’s like cross training;
Houston), but what I can do is wholeheartedly suggest you don’t rush into something,
you love to run, but sometimes you have to swim or bike to work out those extra
especially if you’re choosing a major solely to save face with your parents.
muscles and try something different. It also helps if you like the swimming and biking
When I graduated high school, I chose to attend my father’s alma mater. Why? Because I had no idea where I wanted to go or what I wanted to do. In hindsight, I
part, too.” In the end, whatever you choose to major in is your decision, and you can’t let
realize that I should have focused on my core classes like English, history and govern-
anyone tell you otherwise. You’re the one who has to live with yourself every day, so do
ment and joined a few on-campus organizations to hone in on my skill set and figure
something you’ll enjoy. And if you’re worried about job opportunities and the like, make
out what I wanted to major in. Instead, I wasted a semester of my life studying a major
sure to ask your advisers as well as anyone on-campus (especially other students) what
I didn’t want to study, in a city I didn’t want to be in, at a school I had no interest in.
they think.
“I went back [to school] 10 years later and got a masters in what I wanted to do and
If you want it bad enough, you can make anything work. I’m a journalism senior,
was already doing in the work force,” says Robin Carlson, who received her master’s
and these days my major requires a big leap of faith. It also takes a lot of explaining to
degree in Human Health Performance and Sports Psychology from UH, after originally
my parents and family on a regular basis, but I wake up every day with a smile on my
studying what her parents wanted her to.
face and the determination to make it work. So I’m not worried.
So if mommy and daddy want you to be a doctor, and you want to be a schoolteacher, study the latter. They’ll respect you for it, even if they resent you a little. But there’s also a way
TRANSITIONS • 2010
Find something you’re good at, hone that skill and figure out how to use it to make money and (hopefully) help others, too. The rest will fall into place.
camaca p usd . leivin m ics g
11
MAKING GRADE THE
T
BY \\ Travis Hensley
here is no real mystery to doing well in college. It boils down to following directions and meeting deadlines. How you do this is really just about following a system you know works.
How to do the best you can in college
Most of which is following common sense rules, like showing up for class. You paid for the class, so get
the most out of it. Go every day and make sure the professor answers your questions. Two words that you’re going to get sick of during your time in college are time management. They really just replace the maxim, “Plan ahead.” Great ways to do this include keeping a calendar that has everything on it. Whether it’s paper or digital doesn’t matter — it just matters that you’re comfortable with it and that it’s easy to understand. Another thing that’s important to remember is to be flexible; overDo additional reading if you don’t understand the topic. More importantly, print it out; you’re going to have to kill a few trees if you want to do well in college. Your study time needs to be flexible; if you have a printed copy, you can study anywhere you have a few extra minutes. It is also important that you work with the people in your class. Take advantage of social networking as a medium to get in touch with people. Just send a message and see if they want to meet up before or after class. If you meet before class, though, you will be better prepared than if you meet after. Classwork aside, the best way to ensure classroom success is to be healthy. You should know how much sleep you need so that you’re awake for class. You also need fuel, so be sure that you are eating healthy. It is also important that you exercise — if you fight off the freshman 15, you can also fight off a failing grade. You should also remember to take some time to just have fun and make some time for yourself. College should be more than just books notes and a nice GPA. It’s about learning how to having a well-rounded life that allows you to accomplish what you need to do. It’s also about finding out what works for you.
Guidelines
Success
for
planning can be detrimental.
• Go to class • Follow instructions • Meet deadlines • Work with classmates • Get enough sleep • Eat right
Sometimes a method that seems to work for everyone else will not work for you. So if something is not
• Be flexible with your schedule
helping you, remember — be flexible and move on to the next thing until you find what really works.
• Exercise 2010 • TRANSITIONS
cam T R A NpSus F E. R l ivin . S T Ug DENTS
12
Get on the right path with the Welcome Center
FRESH
Checklist Before you make the trek to campus and find a parking space, make sure you have:
START
Official transcript PeopleSoft ID number Cougar Card Something to read Patience
BY \\ ASHLEY EVANS
T
ransferring to a new school can be a very scary and uncertain time. Every year over half of new Cougars are transfers. The process is a nightmare at any institution, but UH has been working hard to ease the stress with the Transfer Center, located in Room 101 of the Welcome Center. Students wanting to transfer to UH should make sure to acquire official transcripts
as possible. The academic advisors can then process a credit evaluation and help the student lay out a course map for their upcoming years at UH. The credit evaluations can take as long as six to eight weeks, so students are asked to plan well in advance. Another important step to transferring to UH is applying for financial aid. Psychology junior Lauren Colmer felt she could not get a straight answer from the department on the status of her loans. Colmer encourages students to have patience and to keep checking back on all of
from any university they previously attended. Whether you took three credit hours
your paperwork. Student loans aren’t the only option; UH also has multiple scholar-
at the institution or 15, if you want to receive credit you must have each transcript.
ships available specifically for transfer students. Check with academic advisors to
Technology senior Mike Benestante was told he could not enroll in a class because he
determine if transfer scholarships are available in your major.
did not have the required prerequisite. When he researched what happened, he dis-
There are also other initiatives specifically designed to help transfer students ease
covered an entire page of his transcript was missing. His advice to incoming students
into life at a new university. Phi Theta Kappa is an alumni association designed guide
is, “Whenever you do turn in paperwork, always follow-up; just because you turned it
students through the process by providing “outreach and information.”
in, don’t assume it went through.” It is also important for students to check the GPA requirements for their specific
Tau Sigma National Honor Society is an organization that recognizes incoming transfer students’ previously earned academic achievements.
major. The base GPA required for admittance is a 2.5, but different majors may have
Although transferring to a new university can be a confusing process, UH works
different requirements. To guide the students through the tricky process, counselors
hard to ease the pain. Since a majority of new students come from another university,
suggest first speaking to someone in the Transfer Center and having them direct you to
the Transfer Center staff is working hard to implement new strategies to make the
the specific advisor(s) in the school you plan on attending. This allows for students to
transition much smoother.
get a general and then a personalized checklist of what they need. Most colleges provide
For more information on transfer deadlines and admissions you can visit the Trans-
pre-printed degree plans and these can be very useful to determining the next step.
fer Center in Room 101 at the Welcome Center. Information is also available online at
Students are encouraged to make an appointment with their academic advisors as soon
www.uh.edu/admissions/undergraduate/apply-transfer.com.
TRANSITIONS • 2010
Define your
college experience!
Prince M. Wilson President
O
n behalf Of the 47th administratiOn of the student Government association at the University of houston, we would like to welcome you to this exceptional institution. since 1927, students have benefited from the excellent education provided by our distinguished faculty and gained professional insight from their active and spirited involvement on campus. as our campus continues to flourish, consider how you will leave your paw print on the cougar nation! if you are interested in expanding your college horizons and enhancing your knowledge environment, the Uh student Government association is the ideal organization for you. We are here to make sure that the interests of our students are always represented in the decision making process. The sGa works diligently to serve the concerns and demands of the students. Campus improvement and student satisfaction are two major priorities for the sGa. The sGa operates with three branches similar to those of the U.s. government: executive, legislative, and judicial. more specifically, through sGa you are afforded the opportunity to represent your college and improve your academic experience individually. Through involvement in the sGa or by serving on multiple university committees, you will be provided with countless ways to embrace student life and be proactive on campus. This is a wonderful opportunity for each of you to make a valuable contribution to your university and make a real difference in the lives of your fellow students.
Johnnie Jackson Vice President
Kyrie Ruiz
Speaker of the Senate
Katie Kornahrens
Director of Public Relations
Only one unanswered question about your college experience remains:
How will you make a difference? Don’t miss your opportunity to be active on campus. Visit our website (Uh.edu/sga) to inquire how to enhance your professional sphere by applying for our internship program or serving on the following university panels: • Activities Funding Board • A.D. Bruce Religion Center Policy Board • Athletic Advisory Board • Bookstore Advisory Committee • Campus Facilities Planning Committee • Center for Students with Disabilities Advisory Board • Child Care Center Advisory Board • Emergency Planning Committee • Food Services Advisory Committee • Undergraduate Council • Graduate and Professional Studies Council • Health Center Advisory Board
• International Students Advisory Council • Library Committee • Organizations Board • Recreation Advisory Committee • Safety and Security Advisory Board • Sexual Harassment Board • Scholarships and Financial Aid Advisory Committee • Student Fee Advisory Committee • Student Publications Committee • Student Traffic Court • Substance Abuse Prevention Advisory Board • Teaching Excellence Awards Committee
• Title IX Grievance Committee • Transportation and Parking Advisory Board • Undergraduate Admissions Review Committee • University Commission on Women • University Hearing Board • University of Houston Art Acquisition Committee • Web Advisory Committee
Visit us at our office at University Center Rm. 57 or give us a call at 713-743-5220 to find out how you can participate!
Jamy Abraham
Director of Finance
Kate Gaviola
Director of External Affairs
Jeff Syptak Chief of Staff
S T U D E N T. S E R V I C E S
S E C I V R E S ER
14
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BY \\ ASH
T
he University of Houston has multiple career centers available to help students transition from career students to having an actual career. The main University Career Services center is located in the Student Service Center in room 106. All university students are eligible to receive help from the main location. According to Associate Director Dr. Janet Civitelli, “University Career Services (UCS) assists all UH students with every aspect of career planning from choosing a major to finding a job. Whether you want to find an internship, part time job, or full time job, UCS has resources to help.” UCS offers a variety of services, including career interest assessment, to help students choose a field of A college degree by itself is not a ticket for a job after graduation. Start planning your entry into the career world with the help of University Career Services.
interest and resume writing workshops. Students are encouraged not to wait until senior year to become familiar with and utilize the services offered. According to Donna Grady, Director and Career Counselor at the Rockwell Center, students should focus on getting acquainted with faculty and students early on in their college careers so as to have plenty of references and connections at the end. Grady says, “Students should realize the importance of a good cover letter. This is the first thing employers
students with full and part time job opportunities, the
see and it should showcase your writing skills and pas-
career center also offers work-study programs and
counselor, walk in hours are Monday through Thursday,
sion for the job.” The Rockwell Center along with the
internships. Some internship opportunities require a
9 am to 11 am or 2 pm to 4 pm. Appointments can
other career centers has workshops that teach students
certain GPA which is predetermined by the employer.
also be scheduled online at http://career.uh.edu. Walk
how to effectively interview and how to market their skills to a targeted audience. It was cited in a recent National Association of Col-
If students are interested in meeting with a career
UCS also hosts a variety of different career fairs and
in hours are first come, first serve, and offer 15 minute
networking events. The next career fair will be held on
appointments for quick questions. Scheduled appoint-
September 24th from 12:30-4:30 PM at the University
ments are usually one hour.
leges and Businesses study that the more frequently
of Houston-Hilton. Students attending these events
a senior student used career services, the more likely
should wear business attire and bring several copies of
ized job placement. These centers include the Elizabeth
There are also specified career centers for special-
he/she would receive a job offer. Along with helping
their resume to hand out to potential employers.
Rockwell Career Center for business majors, the Engineering Career Center, the Placement Services Center at the Conrad N. Hilton College of Hotel and Restaurant
CAREER 101 • Get involved in organizations that align with your career
• Look for internships • Find a mentor in your area of interest
Management, the College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences Career Center, the UH Law Career Counseling
• Keep an up-to-date resume • Network!
Center, the Graduate College of Social Work Career Development Services, and the College of Technology Career Services. These specialized centers offer services to students and alumni to help place them amongst the working world.
TRANSITIONS • 2010
Hoş geldiniz
o d i n e v n e i 臨 B 歡迎光 e u n e v n ie B n e m m o lk il W
Benvenuto
स्वागत
Hoan nghênh
Welcome to the University of Houston,
the most ethnically diverse major research university in the United States
This message brought to you by the
COUNCIL OF ETHNIC ORGANIZATIONS 4800 CALHOUN RD.,• Houston, HOUSTON, 77204 | (713) WWW.UHCEO.NET 57 University Center TXTX 77204-3031 • (713) 743-2255 743-5175 • |WWW.UHCEO.NET
O R G A N I Z AT I O N S
16
Can’t beat ’em? BY \\ ZOA KHAN
Meet people or blow off steam by joining an on-campus organization
S
tudents who are looking for fulfilling and fun activities to do between studying and going to class have come to the right place. UH offers more than 400 student organizations. Stu-
Join ’em
constantly looking for the next star reporter. Students
Those who want to shape the world at UH can join
who aren’t interested in writing can join the Cougar’s
clubs like Amnesty International, Human Rights Alliance
production or advertising staff.
or Black Student Union. These clubs seek to improve
Those who seek to represent students should consider the Student Government Association. SGA
the world for all people, but specialize in the issues that influence the group most.
dents can join an academic professional development
is one of the few student groups officially recognized
organization, such as the Academy of Student Pharma-
by the Texas Legislature. According to its Web site,
Deltas, Sigmas and Omegas. UH has fraternities and
cists. According to UH’s Web site, the ASP “provides an
SGA is “committed to understanding the needs of
sororities of all kinds, from the Phi Mu Alpha music
opportunity for pharmacy school students to work for
students and ensuring their future at the University of
fraternity to Sigma Phi Omega, which is a sorority for
the community in a capacity that will benefit both the
Houston is bright.”
Asian-Americans.
People interested in going Greek will find plenty of
Those interested in sports or games will find many
Students who are looking for a religious sanctuary
clubs to join, including: cycling, ice hockey, kendo, soc-
can join one of UH’s spiritual organizations. The Baptist
Word, which is a good organization to join for women
cer, swimming, handball, water polo, bowling, kayak,
Student Ministry, Bhakti Yoga Society, Catholic Student
who believe in “empowering women to provide an
chess, tango, ping pong, racquetball, Taekwondo,
Organization and Hindu Students Council are just a few
environment for spiritual growth and fellowship.”
motorsports and boxing.
of the organizations that promote faith and goodwill.
community and the pharmacy profession.” Other organizations include The Women of the
One of the most rewarding organizations is The Daily
People from around the world are proud to be
The variety of interests on campus expands with each
Cougar, the official campus newspaper. The Cougar
Cougars. UH is one of the most diverse campuses in
incoming student. People who can’t find a club that’s
prints Monday through Friday during the spring and
the nation and it is certainly reflected in the student
right for them can always consider starting their own or-
fall semesters and Wednesdays during the summer
clubs. UH has clubs for students of all backgrounds and
ganization or club. UH is a gateway to culture, religion,
semester. The Cougar is entirely run by students and is
origins, from China to Bangladesh.
sports and many other aspects of life.
TRANSITIONS • 2010
Your Cougar Card is your key to the campus.
SHE GETS IT. Do you? Eat on campus.
Meal Plan Accounts can ONLY be used in the Moody Towers (Fresh Food Co.) and Oberholtzer Hall dining facilities (RFoC). Cougar Cash Accounts can be used at all ARAMARK campus facilities, including the convenience stores, McAlister’s Deli, Chinese Star and Shasta’s Cones & More. PLUS get 10% off when you use your Cougar Cash in residential dining facilities. ALL students may request meal plans or Cougar Cash plans at http://my.uh.edu
Shop on campus. Flex Accounts are assigned to all actively enrolled students as a Declining Balance Account. Flex Account funds are restricted to on-campus purchases only. Accepted at: Barnes and Nobles Campus Bookstores, convenience stores, campus eating establishments, residential housing laundry facilities, vending machines, and more. Deposits can be made by cash or credit card in the Cougar Card Office, or by calling (832) 842-CARD (2273), Monday through Friday, 8 am – 5 pm.
Print on campus. Campus Printing Accounts are assigned to all actively enrolled students for our general computing labs with laser printing capabilities as a Declining Balance Account. MD Anderson Library (1st Floor) - $25.00; Information Technology Commons (58 MD Anderson Library) - $7.50; Writing Center (210 – 217 Agnes Arnold Hall) - $7.50
So How Do I GET IT? VISIT www.uH.EDu/couGarcarD CALL 832-842-carD
And there’s more...
Access Control to Residential Housing
Enrollment Verification Campus Recreation & Wellness Center Access Classroom Attendance Access to UH Sporting Events Plus many more!
C
M
Y
CM
MY
CY
CMY
K
U
Ch
ild Care Cen t
Gr owi ng
er
H
e! the Prid
COUGAR.PRIDE
20
TRADITIONS Cougar Pride continues through the ages
U
H has many traditions, and before you walk across the stage and receive your diploma, you will learn all about them. But just as vital as the traditions themselves is their history.
BY \\ PATRICIA ESTRADA
of Texas in 1953. Tradition says that the night
brothers were first given the task to operate the
before the football game, a cage door became
siren.
dislodged and severed one of Shasta’s fingers.
During football games, Shasta and Sasha
Longhorn fans learned about the wound and
perform pushups for each point scored during
mocked Cougar fans by making the current Cou-
the game.
gar Paw. Texas won that day 28-7.
If you are a fan of basketball, you can join in
In 1976, however, UH fans held up the same
and enjoy many Cougar traditions. One of these
official colors: Albino White and Scarlet. It is
sign as the Cougars defeated the Longhorns 30-0
is key jingling; this is “a way for fans to tell the
said these colors were those of Sam Houston’s
in their first season in the Southwest Conference.
team to bring home the victory, and to let the
ancestor, Sir Hugh. According to the UH Web site,
Since then students adopted the Cougar Paw as a
opposing teams bus driver know to start the bus
they represent, “The blood of royalty that was
sign of pride. The original cougar sign was a “V”
and head home,” according the UH athletic Web
spared due to the timely arrival of Sir Hugh and
for victory, but this tradition ended in 1965.
site.
UH traditions begin with the University’s
the blood that is the life source of the soul,” and
Another important tradition is Frontier Fiesta.
Now you can take part in the Cougar tradi-
“The purity and perfections of the heart, mind
Dating back to 1940, student organizations and
tions and spread the Cougar pride, and the next
and soul engaged in the effort to serve faith-
alumni recreate a 19th century western town
time someone asks, “Why are they all screaming
fully that which is by right and reason, just fully
every year that features carnival booths, variety
at that Cougar?” you’ll have something to tell
served.”
shows, a barbecue cook-off and live music. The
them.
Our cougar mascot came about when Alpha Phi Omega purchased a live cougar in 1947 and
event is student run and free for all students. According to the UH Web site, Coach
held a contest to name the animal. Joe Randol
Jack Pardee, Andre Ware and David
won the competition with the name Shasta.
Daucus felt the UH football team
Since then there have been five live cougars
needed a symbol. In 1991 an oil
at UH, from 1947 to 1989. This tradition ended
field warning siren was bought to
after Shasta V died in 1989. Since then costumed
represent the University’s ties to the
students have served as the mascot.
oil fields. The name “The Blaze” came
The tradition of the Cougar Paw came about after a football game against the University
TRANSITIONS • 2010
after a member of Sigma Chi passed away the summer the siren arrived. The Sigma Chi
Visit www.myCougarConnection.com/student to sign up.
cam p us . l ivin g
22
TRANSITIONS • 2010
BUILDING.UP
23
BREAKING THROUGH BY \\ MATTHEW KEEVER
All around campus are signs that UH is on the verge of flagship status
N
ot that it wasn’t before, but now is an especially exciting time to be at the University of Houston. We have an up-and-coming sports program with plans for a new football and basketball stadium, new places for students to live, including Calhoun Lofts and Cougar Village — and, perhaps most importantly, the University is striving for flagship status under the administration of a president who has made it clear that either we shape up or she ships out. This kind of attitude has garnered the attention of Houston — and in many ways, the nation as well. So as the University continues striving for bigger and better things, freshmen who are planning to
attend UH should focus on bettering themselves while taking full advantage of all the opportunities our campus offers. Luckily, the two go hand in hand. “I think freshmen just have to look around,” said Manjul Agrawal, an accounting junior. “People take that for granted, but I think if people would spend time at UH instead of going home immediately after classes, they would find something to do.” From exciting sports programs to globally-recognized learning facilities, UH already gives students plenty of reasons to hang out on campus, and it’s only getting better. In its plan to achieve recognition as a national research facility, the University has said that pursuing this vision does not represent a change in direction for UH but is instead a natural expansion of its mission. The plan also includes improved undergraduate programs, more doctoral programs, a 70 percent increase in research-oriented funding and more libraries with more books. “It’s a good time to be at UH because of all the small conference schools, we’re definitely in the top 10 most likely to break into one of the big boys in all categories — sports, academics and research,” said Tim Mathis, a US Navy veteran who graduated from UH in May with a history degree. “Plus we have an ultra diverse campus, which is also a military friendly campus.” Houston as a city is changing, and its largest University is, too. “It is an exciting time to be a Cougar, because our University is undergoing a drastic transformation,” said Feliks Starikov, an accounting senior. “For years the University was seeking to improve its standing on a national and state level, and improve its contents inside and out. In the past few years, these aspirations have transpired into action. On a tangible level, the University is expanding and improving — the completion of facilities, such as a new Rec Center, the Lofts, various vendors and, of course, the passed plans to build a new University Center and athletic facilities. On an intangible level, our institutions are improving. Our
The Science and Engineering Classroom Complex Building is one of the University’s latest additions
2010 • TRANSITIONS
BUILDING.Up
24
teams are winning, programs are growing and gaining momentum in rankings. “I believe that to get involved, freshmen need to take advantage of all that the Univeristy has to offer,” Starikov said. “Many attend UH for the classes but live as much of their life off campus as possible. As unavoidable as that is in such a massive city, there has to be a balance, and growth toward the right direction.... Students need to take advantage of their collegiate years and become leaders, scholars, entrepreneurs, and really push the university to the future.” Thomas Edison once said, “Good fortune is what happens when opportunity meets with planning.” And we couldn’t agree more. As the University plans to reach new and exciting heights, its students will follow suit and surely have both the time of their lives at UH while soaking in every-
Th e on M. e D. of A UH nd ’s erso st n ep L s t ibr o ar Ti y i er s O jus ne t
thing it has to offer academically, which, in case you haven’t figured out by now, is a lot.
The WRC is here for ALL students, faculty and staff ... to listen ... to help ... to inform. Our services include: •
Information and referrals
•
Dynamic speakers and programming
•
Friendly hangout
•
Special events -Take Back the Night -Love your Body Day
To find out more about the WRC Visit us online at www.uh.edu/wrc Call us at 713-743-5888 Or come by our offices - 279A University Center
ience it! r e p x E
natatorium, Outdoor Leisure Pool, Whirlpools & sauna
53-foot climbing Wall
Basketball, volleyball, & Badminton courts
combat Room, child care, Locker Room & showers
Racquetball courts, Multi-Purpose Rooms
& Much More...
fitness Zone & indoor track
PROGRAMS AquAtics/sAfety
fitness
swim Lessons, scuBA & trips, Master swim, century club, & first Aid/cPR
Group exercise, Personal training, fitness Assessments, & Martial Arts
OutdOOR AdventuRe Outings, Gear shop, educational Workshops, L.i.f.t. & Resource Guide
fAcuLty & stAff Annual Golf tournament, cougar distance challenge & family nights
sPORts cLuBs
collegiate non-varsity competition & Leadership
intRAMuRAL sPORt
League, individual competition & tournaments
yOuth
Martial Arts, swim Lessons & family nights
The Department of Campus Recreation reports to the Division of Student Affairs.
713-743-PLAy
www.uh.edu/recreation
cam p us . l ivin g
26
COUGAR VILLAGE
Freshman housing just got a whole lot better
BY \\ JACK WEHMAN
NUMBERS
1,132
Number of students Cougar Village can house
TO
32 1
Number of students each Resident Assistant watches over
$1.50 $50 MILLION 339,000 Cost of washing and drying a
load of clothes in an on-campus laundry room
Projected cost of Cougar Village
General square footage of Cougar Village
F
reshman, rejoice — Cougar Village, the brand-new on-campus housing, has been designed from the ground up exclusively for incoming UH students. Only freshmen and honors college students are allowed to live in the Village, allowing new University students to meet their peers. “[Cougar Village] is intended exclusively for fresh-
room, a computer lab and Internet access in every room. There is also a sky bridge that links the dorms to the newly renovated Fresh Food Company located at Moody Towers. Students will not have to worry about any weather affecting their decision to eat. Although it is still under construction, Hidalgo said the bridge “will be ready when the building (Cougar Village) welcomes its new residents.” In addition to the purpose-built facilities for academia,
men. Cougar Village posses a good blend of residence
student life and amenities, Cougar Village will also allow
life, academics and overall Student Affairs support,”
students to take part in the Freshman Year Residential
Interim executive director of Residential Life and Hous-
Experience, a program exclusively designed to give fresh-
ing Javier Hidalgo said.
men every advantage they need to succeed in college.
Cougar Village is not just another bland dorm for
FYRE gives new UH students a chance to live on the same
freshmen, either. It’s a state-of-the-art building designed
floor with people of similar majors, exclusive access to
to give freshmen the competitive advantage at the start
counselors and other campus officials and the opportu-
of their academic career.
nity to participate in special programs with other FYRE
“The facility includes suite style living space, a living/
students. The focus is on developing students not only
learning center, computer clusters, fitness areas, spacious
academically but also socially, to hopefully make them
social and program lounges, study areas, floor kitchens,
well-rounded college graduates.
a recreation room, multi-purpose rooms, and classrooms.
For those students who feel like they’re going to be
We want our residents to come out of their rooms and
lost in a sea of new people when they go to college,
interact with each other… there will be tutoring and
don’t worry. At least everyone else around you will be
other learning activities,” Hidalgo said.
going through the same thing, and with the help of
Just because Cougar Village includes all of the new programs doesn’t mean it skimps in other areas, either.
TRANSITIONS • 2010
Every normal amenity is included; there is a full laundry
Cougar Village you may have a smoother time than you thought.
Big campus? Hot weather? No problem! Here’s a helping hand. Whether you need directions to class
We’ll help you find your way around.
How will you find us? It’s simple: Just look for our tents across campus.
some info to get you on your way
bottled water to cool down
Cougar First Impressions
Celebrating our 13th Anniversary August 23-24 (first 2 days of class)
we’ve got you Our volunteers will answer questions, covered! hand out water and welcome you to www.uh.edu/sc/cfi
The University of Houston is an EEO/AA institution.
the University of Houston. We want to make your first impression a great one!
832-842-LOFT(5638) www.uh.edu/calhounlofts
e m o h f o s e c n e i n e v E o ll the c MMUT
A
O
WITH
HE C T T U O
ngle
Quadra
owers
Moody T
owers
Moody T
ngle
Quadra
ngle
Quadra
cam p us . E atin g
30
FRESH FOOD CO. D
BY \\ JACK WEHMAN
ining on campus just became much more refined. This fall Moody Towers will reopen its renovated cafeteria for the first time. It is now known as the Fresh Food Company, and the renovations are extensive; almost nothing from the previous dining hall remains.
Campus dining is cooking up something special
distributes food to various hot plates and servers, the FFCo
station, bakery, grill, deli, produce, pasta and desserts,”
has four pods, each one its own self-contained restaurant.
Wigley said. He also mentioned a new marble slab-style
Each pod has its own staff and its own ingredients.
ice cream station along with a tortilla maker that will be
“Each ‘pod’ is fully self-contained, meaning cooking equipment, coolers, dish washers, storage, etc. are lo-
working in full view of the students. The renovations couldn’t come at a better time.
cated at each pod. Each ‘pod’ will have multiple stations
This August also marks the opening of the brand-new
preparing food,” Wigley said.
Cougar Village, which provides on-campus housing
This new style of food preparation means that stu-
exclusively for freshmen. There is a sky bridge that links
dents will be able to enjoy much more diverse and much
the Village to the Fresh FCo, allowing students to travel
“The biggest change students will immediately notice
better tasting food on a daily basis, instead of choosing
easily back and forth between the two buildings.
in the Fresh Food Company (FFCo) is that all food prepa-
between just rotisserie chicken and pizza. And because
In the end, though, the FFCo is all about serving stu-
ration is done at the station, in front of diners. There is
the pods are completely separate, the menu for the din-
dents the best food possible in the nicest setting available.
no ‘kitchen’ or ‘back of the house’ in a FFCo; everything
ing hall is very fluid and open, allowing for new dishes
is prepared fresh at each station,” Food Service Director
almost every day.
Edward Wigley said. Instead of having one big kitchen that prepares and
“I think the freshness and uniqeness of each station will be what people will notice first,” Wigley said. “The
“Some of the stations diners will be able to enjoy include a new brick oven, Mongolian grill, vegetarian
menu at each station will change everyday. There will always be something new to enjoy.”
Just a few of the new additions include a brick pizza oven and a new deli station. The renovations cost almost $10 million dollars.
TRANSITIONS • 2010
Produce Market
MOODY HALL DINING COMMONS University of Houston, Houston,TX
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cam p us . l ivin g
32
jack wehman: Commuting kills your soul; plus I get to sleep in until ‘11
COMMUTER VS. RESIDENT
5. Is there anything you wish you could change about your living situation?
ben muths: Enjoy more freedom with a car and living off-campus
you could change about your
The guest check-in policy. I
5. Is there anything you wish living situation? Less overall creature activity—
1. What time do you wake up in
understand the safety aspect, but
1. What time do you wake up in
maintenance and overall quality of
the morning to get to class?
seeing as how it’s not difficult to
the morning to get to class?
the apartment I’m in is sometimes
About half an hour before my
bypass, why shouldn’t we be able to
first class, so I guess it depends on
sign in more people than the two per
the day.
day that we’re allowed?
2. How long does it take you to
6. How hard is it for you to find
make it to class/park?
parking on campus?
Five to 10 minutes.
I don’t drive, so it’s easy. However, they won’t let me bring my
6:30, and my first class starts
an issue, and I don’t think it would
at 8.
be that bad on campus.
2. How long does it take you to
6. How hard is it for you to find
make it to class/park?
parking on campus?
20 minutes, and I get to campus
Not very hard except for at peak
pretty early so there’s no parking
hours, but I come to campus early
problems.
so I don’t have much of a problem.
3. What do you think the ben-
bike inside, so I’m left without trans-
efits of living off campus are?
portation because I’m not willing to
3. What do you think the ben-
7. How do you plan studying to
leave it to the mercy of the public.
efits of living off campus are?
fit in with your living arrange-
Convenience; everything is within walking distance. You also
Probably better prices, and
ments?
get to meet more people if you live
7. How do you plan studying to
there’s more freedom and oppor-
Usually I get about three to four
there (on campus). It connects you
fit in with your living arrange-
tunity with no consequences — as
hours a day in between classes, so I
more firmly to your school.
ments?
opposed to on-campus living.
stay on campus and study then.
4. What are the negatives?
8. Do you think if you lived
Whenever I need to study I just 4. What are the negatives?
walk to the library, so rather easily.
Room checks. It’s not really a
There’s always a possibility of
somewhere else you would
huge negative, it just gets time
8. Do you think if you lived
traffic, and generally just having to
consuming having to make the ap-
somewhere else you would
wake up earlier and travelling fur-
Doubtful; my living arrange-
pointments.
study better?
ther is a downside. Plus you have
ments don’t really affect my study-
to have a car; if you live on campus
ing. It’s more about my schedule, if
you don’t need one.
anything.
I would probably study worse because I’d have to drive or bike much further to find a study spot.
TRANSITIONS • 2010
study better?
Where Tradition
Begins
cam C O MpMus U T. lI N ivin G g
34
How to save your sanity when dealing with the
FREEWAY T
DILEMMA
BY \\ ANDREW TAYLOR
here is absolutely no question that The University of Houston is a commuter campus. One way almost any UH student can identify themselves is by acknowledging that they know one other student who has a greater commute than themselves. Our university is a commuter campus for several reasons.
First and foremost, the real estate around UH is not what most students desire. There are some exceptions; for instance, the Calhoun Lofts boast modern apartment style living. Unfortunately, the prices of the Lofts are also as high as the high rise itself, but if you are living there you probably don’t have to face the number one parking problem — not being able to find a spot. The parking dilemma is the biggest sign that our campus is a commuter campus. The absence of parking spots after 8:45 a.m. is very similar to construction on I-45 — it will always exist. It takes the prize as the most loathed part of being a UH commuter. Luckily, there are a few ways to cope; the best way is to arrive on campus before or around 8 a.m. At some point in every UH commuter’s career they have the realization that yes, the University’s decision to oversell parking permits by more than double actual capacity does create a problem when you get to campus, and yes, it does make you want to go postal.
COMMUTING
35
Update on Metro line
Once this stage of enlightenment is complete, the UH commuter evolves and they start to consider that 8 a.m. idea. The best thing to do with yourself on campus around this time is to head to the
The University’s light rail extension has just started to break ground and already the headaches have started. Houston’s new mayor, Annise Parker, has cast doubt as to whether Metro actually has the funding to carry out the project A sign on Wheeler indicates construction has begun on to completion. Metro’s UH corridor \\ File photo However, Metro is its own separate entity, and while Parker can appoint board members, she cannot keep Metro from seeking as many bonds as they like without receiving voter approval. As of now, Metro is continuing construction as planned; only time will tell whether UH’s rail line ever sees the light of day.
Campus Recreation and Wellness Center for a workout, or the M.D. Anderson Memorial Library. These two places both provide an endless amount of options that will either wake you up or put you back to sleep. The last issue (which you should be avoiding at all costs) as a commuter is traffic. During the summer and winter the University offers barely any assistance here. Don’t get me wrong, I love UH, but once 3 p.m. comes around everything closes. During the semester things improve only slightly, continuing this problem instead of solving it. One solution I have found is to meet up with friends off campus somewhere fun in Houston. The greatest amenity to UH is the city itself. The selection of restaurants ranges from Ethiopian to American, and the museum and art scene is one of the best in the country. The city has plenty hidden treasures that can cover the interests of everyone. This is the best way to avoid traffic —other than ending your scholastic schedule before 4 p.m. When combined in a manner customized to each student, our school can easily become dramatically less stressful, exponentially more interesting, and more lovable overall. Without some of this wisdom, many Cougars are left feeling preyed upon by the evils of attending a major university in one of the nation’s largest cities.
The
LGBT Resource Center
helps create an environment of inclusion and acceptance for all UH Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender students, staff and faculty.
Our programs include: Brown Bag Social Lunch every Monday Mentoring Program Lending Library - FREE Cougar Ally Training Annual Events like National Coming Out Day … and much more For Details call (713)
743-3662 Join us at www.facebook.com/UH.LGBT.RC
ATTENTION GLBT STUDENTS Look For These Signs On Campus To Find An Open & Affirming Person www.uh.edu/wrc/CougarAllyTraining.html
C I T Y. l i F E
36
Buffalo Bayou Park gives hikers and bikers a reason to take a day on the town \\ Greater Houston Convention and Visitors Bureau
EX H P O ER U IE ST N C O E
C I T Y. L I F E
N
37
The Menil Collection is one of Houston’s most prominent art galleries \\ Greater Houston Convention and Visitors Bureau
From art galleries to coffee shops to live music, Houston is the place to be
BY \\ TRAVIS HENSLEY
F
rom contemporary arts to four professional sports teams, Houston really does have something for everyone. You can live in Houston your entire life, but it doesn’t really open up to you until you go to college. With midterms, research papers and finals, sometimes you just need an escape from UH.
— or you could just hang out in the suburbs. It’s always best to start with your current interest. If you like live music, Walter’s on Washington and Mango’s have some of the best local musicians around. If you are looking for music during the week, check out AvantGarden. And if you want to see a band that is just starting out, check out Fitzgerald’s. When looking for something that won’t keep your ears ringing in the morning, try one of the 70-
When running from the stress involved with school, there are a lot of different directions you can
plus art galleries around Houston. A great place to
take. There’s Montrose, the Heights and Downtown
start for new art is the Station Museum. The only
University Health Center
Hurt? Sick? All currently enrolled students can use our services whether you have UH Student Insurance or not!
All visits anadre inquirieesntial confid
Walk-in Clinic Physician visits for general diagnosis, treatment, minor emergencies, laboratory, X-ray and specialist referral. 713-743-5151
Psychiatric Clinic Evaluation, diagnosis, medication management and treatment for psychiatric disorders. Appointment only. 713-743-5149
Nursing Care Allergy injections, cuts and abrasions, health information, blood pressure monitoring, immunizations. 713-743-5156
Women’s Clinic Diagnosis, treatment, counseling and referral for women’s health issues. Appointment only. 713-743-5156
Dermatology Clinic Diagnosis and treatment of skin related conditions. No referral necessary. Appointment only. 713-743-5154
Attendant Care Services Care and lifestyle assistance program for needs of disabled students living on campus. 713-748-8603
Men’s Clinic Diagnosis, treatment, counseling and referral for men’s health issues. Appointment only. 713-743-5155
Pharmacy Prescription and over the counter items at very low cost. 713-743-5125
Orthopedic Clinic Treatment of sports injuries and musculo-skeletal problems. Appointment only. 713-743-5142
UH Student Health Insurance Deadline to add or drop insurance is the Official Reporting Day of each fall and spring semester. 713-743-5137
For hours and more information, http://www.uh.edu/admin/hc Entrance #6 on Wheeler • Bldg #525 on Campus Map
C I T Y. L I F E
38
other place to see art that is decently close to campus is the Blaffer Gallery. Another great place to see the newest art is Gallery Sonja Roesch, a place that brings new meaning to the maxim “Less is more.”
Houston doesn’t just come to you; in order to really get a feel for the city you have to go out and explore.
If you don’t want to spend your time trying to figure out contemporary art and just feel like running, the city has more than 100 miles of hiking and bike trails. One of the best places to run in Houston is around Memorial Park. There are plenty of other things for people to do if they want to do outside of Houston and that requires no really athletic prowess or endurance. Frisbee golf at
Greater Houston Convention and Visitors Bureau
the Buffalo Bayou Park is a great course for people who just want to walk around and oc-
conversation. There are coffee shops all over town,
a movie. It’s not the cheapest place in Houston,
casionally thow things.
like Agora or Inversion — or you could just go to
but it is one of the coolest.
If you’re feeling like something to eat and you just can’t do an on-campus restaurant again, there
one of the hundreds of Starbucks that are housed in Houston.
are some amazing restaurants all over the city open
So when you go to school here, just try to get the most out of what the city has to offer you.
Downtown isn’t just the center of the city — it’s
Houston doesn’t just come to you; in order to re-
any time of day. Get some gumbo or a po’ boy at
also one of the best places to go when you want to
ally get a feel for the city you have to go out and
BB’s Café, or get some Tex-Mex at Molina’s Cantina.
go somewhere unique. Bayou Place, which houses
explore. If you leave the University and the only
If you just want to get away from the Univer-
the Hard Rock Cafe, Verizon Wireless Theater and
thing you know about is how to get from the park-
sity and unravel, there are a lot of great place in
the Angelika Film Center (among other things) is
ing lot to the classroom, then you have just missed
Houston where one can sit and enjoy a peaceful
the perfect place to grab a bite and some music or
out on a great opportunity.
U N I V E R S I T Y
of
H O U S T O N
Department of Public Safety
UCS
Start thinking about your Career!
Police 713-743-3333
University Career Services is your source for: • Help Choosing Your Major • College Work-Study Jobs • Career Counseling
Fire Marshal 713-743-1635
• Vocational Assessments • Job Postings • Internship Programs • Résumé Critiques • Career Fairs and Workshops
UNIVERSITY
CAREER SERVICES
University Career Services • 106 Student Service Center 1 Houston, TX 77204-3040 • 713.743.5100 • 713.743.5111 (fax) ucs@uh.edu
www.career.uh.edu The University of Houston is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action institution. 6097 | PMG | SF | RS
Parking Enforcement 713-743-5849 Serving Our University Community
www.uh.edu/police
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offering METRO Q-Card services at the UH Welcome Center! Find these resources at the Parking and Transportation Desk: •
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C O U G A R . AT H L E T I C S
UH
GO
40
BY \\ JOHN BRANNEN
T
here has never been a more exciting time to be a sports fan for the University of Houston. The football team is coming off a 10-4 record last year, and the men’s basketball team hopes to return to the NCAA Tournament after making their first appearance last season since 1993. In 2009 the Cougars beat three BCS conference teams, two of which were
Time leading passer. Keenum’s career total so far is 12,950 yards — only 4,122 yards away from the record. Keenum would have likely been taken in the 2010 draft, but opted to stay for his senior season instead. Keenum, along with wide receivers James Cleveland and Tyron Carrier, were named to the Sporting News Preseason All-American Third Team. The Cougar’s first game is September 4 when they face off against Texas State.
nationally ranked. The Cougars clawed their way to being ranked 12th in
UH’s sports résumé doesn’t just include football. The 2010 season gave
the country at one point in the season and hope to break into the top 10
hope to Cougar basketball fans as well. The team had a mediocre season go-
this year. Head football coach Kevin Sumlin is entering his third season at
ing 19-16, losing many games by a small deficit. But the Cougars had Aubrey
the helm of the Cougar football program and has accumulated an 18-9
Coleman, and with 25.6 points per game he led the nation last season in scor-
record through his first two seasons.
ing, which always made the Cougars a threat. With their backs against the
Sumlin was previously an offensive coordinator at football powerhouse Oklahoma University, where he developed his high-powered offensive philosophy; as a testament to his leadership, last season the Cougars averaged 42 points per game, the highest in the nation Star University quarterback Case Keenum is, for the second consecutive year, a pre-season Hesiman candidate and has a chance to become the NCAA’s All-
TRANSITIONS • 2010
wall the Cougars had to win four games in four days in the Conference USA Tournament — and they did just that. After the C-USA tournament James Dickey was named head coach of the team, replacing Tom Penders. Dickey’s coaching philosophy is to play a manto-man defense with paired with an up-tempo, 3-point shooting offense. Dickey and his staff hope to pick up where last season’s team left off when
C O U G A R . AT H L E T I C S
41
We don’t just bleed red... we wear it with pride
The Daily Cougar File Photos
the basketball season resumes in November. But the excitement does not stop at football and basketball. In the past 10 years the men’s baseball team has made the NCAA Regional tournament
After a successful season the Cougar football team hoists the Conference USA trophy over their heads
six times. The softball team was established in 2000 and has made the NCAA regional three times, and the Super Regional once. From 2006-2008 head coach Kyla Holas led the Cougars to three consecutive 40-win seasons. The men and women’s track team is coached by Leroy Burrell, an Olympic gold medalist and world record holder in the 100-meter dash. Burrell’s team contends every year to win the conference championship, and sends athletes to the NCAA Championship meet every season. The golf team has 16 national championships, good for second place in collegiate history. In the 1980s the Cougars appeared in three Final Fours. Two of the appearances were during the Phi Slamma Jamma era that featured Hakeem Olajuwon and Clyde Drexler. In 1989 Andre Ware won the Heisman Trophy. While remembering former greats, current athletes and coaches hope to build their own legacies and reclaim national dominance.
2010 • TRANSITIONS
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cou g ar . ath l etics
44
Left: Rendering of what Robinson stadium’s replacement will look like Below: Conceptual drawing of the renovated Hofheinz Pavilion
SETTING THE
University committed to stepping up their game with plans for bigger, better venues
STAGE
BY \\ JOHN BRANNEN
T
he University of Houston is due for a change of scenery. The Athletics Department released bold new plans this summer to build a new football stadium to replace Robertson. The tradition of Hofheinz Pavilion will remain, with renovations estimated to be between $40 million to $70 million. The completion date is to be determined, but University officials hope to begin construction in 17 months, on the new football stadium. The plans for the new football stadium could cost up to $160 million. Athletics Director Mack Rhoades said a synthetic surface is favored for the
luxury suites and 200 loge box seats for alumni. The former stomping grounds of Phi Slama Jama
games at the two venues. With the University hoping to raise its athletic
will remain; Hofheinz Pavilion will be renovated
prestige, these moves are no coincidence. The Ath-
instead of being demolished. The plans include
letics Department has adopted a mantra of “Not
adding 100 loge box seats and 250 floor seats to
waiting for opportunity, but making opportunity.”
bring fans closer to the action. Hofheinz will host
Local politicians and University administration are
the men and women’s basketball teams, along with
demanding the inclusion of UH in a BCS conference
home volleyball games.
like the Big 12. The Athletics Department vows its
The new state-of-the-art facilities will bolster
loyalty to Conference USA, but big performances
the University’s athletic prestige. Not only will they
from the football and basketball team — along
attract fans, but also recruits can be swayed to play
with the venue upgrades — shows a desire for UH
for UH with the upgrades. Houston is a hotbed for
to be competitive nationally.
athletic talent, so the Athletics Department hopes the plans will keep more athletes close to home. Along with University events, Rhoades hopes to
Next year the University will raise the funds for the project, and the student body can help. Mack Rhoades has a simple message to students — come
football stadium. The new stadium will be able to
open both facilities to the public when there’s no
to games. Students are vital to the success of the
host 40,000 fans, but will be expandable to accom-
sporting events or graduations. Rhoades said he
Athletics program, and attendance at games can
modate 50,000 if necessary. It will also feature 22
hopes to have high school football and basketball
help accomplish these goals faster.
TRANSITIONS • 2010
C ou g ar . ath l etics
45
POINTSOFPRIDE Phi Slama Jama
COTTON BOWL
From 1982-84, the
In the 1977
UH men’s basketball
Cotton Bowl,
team was nicknamed
the Cougars
“Phi Slama Jama.” The
defeated the
“fraternity” included
University of
Hakeem Olajuwon
Maryland Ter-
(pictured above), Clyde
rapins, 30-21,
Drexler, Rob Williams
under Hall of
and Greg “Cadillac”
Fame coach Bill
Anderson.
Yeoman. 1984 HOUSTONIAN YEARBOOK
1978 HOUSTONIAN YEARBOOK
Fred Couples
Olympics
Getting his start
WIKICOMMONS
Heisman
UH athletes have
In 1989, Andre Ware
with the Cougar golf
won 35 Olympic medals,
became the first black
team, Couples went on
including 16 gold. UH
quarterback to win the
to win the 1992 Masters
head track and field
Heisman. Ware remains
and 14 other PGA tour-
coach Leroy Burrell is a
the only athlete in UH
naments.
former record-holder.
history to win one.
PHOTOS.COM
UH LIBRARY PHOTO
cam AT H LpEus T E..lPivin R O Fg ILE
TYRON CARRIER
T
yron Carrier’s speed has always made it easy for him to blow past the competition, but along the way to two 1,000-yard receiving seasons he has had moments like having to redshirt his freshman year that have kept him in check and helped him grow. “Coming from high school and being the man, to coming to college and having to sit back and watch other people play their roles...was real humbling for me,“ Carrier said. “At the moment it was really frustrating. I had a couple
This man has a need for speed
C an arr d ier hi ’s ss q m uic a k an ll s bu id tatu rst ea r s l k e m of ic a sp k ke e e re tu him d rn er
46
BY \\ JOSHUA SIEGEL
Carrier says that seeing the work ethic of former-Cougar receiver/kick-returner Donnie Avery pushed him as well. Avery, like Carrier, stands under 6-feet tall and runs with exceptional burst. “(Seeing) Donnie Avery get drafted in the second round by the Rams and I thought, ‘Man I’ve got to have that’. Just hearing him and what he said and how his experience went with college, it just opened my eyes about what I needed to do. “I think being a small guy, it just gives you the edge of being the best. Most
of seniors come up to me and tell me that the best thing that they did was
guys, bigger guys, don’t like coming over the middle. I make my living coming
redshirt. That kind of mellowed me out a little bit. It was more humbling.”
over the middle. I take some big shots and I make the big catches, that’s what I
Since getting on the field for the Cougars as a red-shirt freshman in 2008, Carrier has made the All-Conference USA team as a receiver and as a kick
have to do.” Carrier says that the Cougars and Coach Sumlin aspire to be perfect this up-
returner. In addition to being a standout football player, Carrier also excels at
coming season and he is working in the offseason on his weaknesses to come
running track for UH. He says that because of football, he is not able to com-
back even stronger.
pete at his full potential during track season -- a scary thought considering he has qualified for the NCAA Championships in the 200 Meters the last two years.
“Most people take breaks. I don’t. I keep working,” Carrier said. Carrier, who attended Worthing High School, relishes every opportunity to
Carrier has always been fast; even a serious ankle injury in high school could
take the field for the Cougars and create exciting plays in his hometown. It is a
not slow him down. It only proved to make him work harder and help give him
benefit for him to play in Houston because it keeps him grounded and around
the drive to be successful at the next level.
the people who have supported him throughout his career.
“I kind of got a reality check in high school,” Carrier said. “I broke my ankle
“I’m at home. Not many guys can say they played high school and college
and tore it up pretty bad and it came from, ‘well we don’t know if you can
ball in their home city. I’m five minutes away from my house where I grew up,
really play’ to ‘well you can run, but we don’t know about football’ to ‘you can
so I love it. It also keeps me on track because if I have a bad game, I go home
play football’. I came in with high ambitions because I felt like I could still play,
and everybody’ll let me hear it. Also you have a good game and everybody is
and to actually come in and have to take that backseat was really humbling. But
going to praise you. And you need that. When your family is around, you’re
it kept me coolheaded and gave me the determination that I want to work.”
never missing home because you’re always here.”
TRANSITIONS • 2010
cam p us . l ivin g
48
ART STATE OF THE
Sculptures, paintings and murals enhance the beauty of the campus
BY \\ JOSE AGUILAR
W
ith a vote in 1966, the UH Board of Regents created the Percent For Art program, the first ever enacted by a state-assisted university. The program stipulates that one percent of all construction costs for both new and renovated buildings goes toward the purchase or commission of works of art that will enhance the buildings, and in turn the campus. This fund has allowed for the acquisition of over 250 works of art for the UH system.
“A Com
ma A”o
utside th
e M.D.
Anderso
n Library
looks b
est afte
r the su
n goes
down.
To help you discover all the various works of art located around the vast UH campus, the University Collections department has produced a map of the 51 works of art located across UH’s 548-acre campus. The map suggests two walking tours that you can take, each taking approximately 30 minutes to complete. Not all works of art are points on the tours. As a newbie, you are likely to spend quite a bit of time at the Welcome Center, the most recent completed building on campus. Here is where the south campus tour
You can find William King’s “Colllegium” towering above the plaza adjacent to the School of Art and the Jack J. Valenti School of Communication.
starts and where you will encounter the latest work of public art to grace the campus. Venezuelan artist Carlos Cruz-Diez’ “Double Physichromie Modular” was installed in 2006, and it is his first public art commission in the country. The sculpture, which is made up of over 2,000 aluminum panels, is meant to be seen from both sides and from many angles. Crossing the street, you will come to the University Center, another building where you will spend a lot of time. The UC holds the first outdoor work of art purchased by the Percent For Art program. American artist Bob Fowler’s extremely abstract sculpture, Untitled, was commissioned the same year the program was set up. Part animal, part machine, the towering sculpture is a distant, disfigured cousin of the elephant that graces the entrance to the Houston Zoo, another of Fowler’s creations. Leaving the UC, you come along side a building that will also occupy many of your hours, the M.D. Anderson library. Jim Sanborn’s work entitled “A Comma A” sits directly to the right of the library’s doors. The steel sculpture, when illuminated at night, casts shadows of the various pieces of literature in languages from all over the world imprinted on it. The sculpture, finished in 2003, is one of the campus’ most recent additions. The next work of art that almost all students will see prior to heading to the University’s various colleges is the 40-foot tall “Tower of the Cheyenne”. The steel sculpture, which sits above a fountain in Butler Plaza, was commissioned in 1972 from American artist Peter Forakis. The work was refabricated in 2004. The north campus tour begins outside of the Moore School of Music but sneak inside to see the Frank Stella installation titled “Euphonia”. Back outside, you can see Stephen de Staebler’s “Winged Woman”, gifted to UH in 1996 by longtime UH benefactor Jane Blaffer Owen.
TRANSITIONS • 2010
cam p us . l ivin g
49
Ducking into the breezeway between the Cullen College of Engineering and the annex, the tour brings you to the most peculiar, polka-dotted, steel duck, and its intricate steel trees. “Landscape with Blue Tree”, commissioned in 1981 from American artist Jim Love, is the most playful of the sculptures located throughout the campus. The tour continues through campus and reaches the boxed per-
Right: Commissioned in 1972 and refabricated in 2004, the “Tower of the Cheyenne” sits at the center of Butler Plaza in front of the M.D. Anderson Library.
spectives of both “Sandy in Defined Space” in front of Science and
Research I and of “Troika” behind Science and Research II. Richard McDermott Miller created the former work of art, a bronze of a nude woman in an open cube, which was purchased in 1971 through the
Below: “Contemplation” often turns into a jungle gym, nestled alongside the paths leading to the University Center Satellite.
Percent For Art program. American artist Charles Ginnnever’s steel geometrical work was commissioned in 1989. Tom Sayre’s “Contemplation”, a large work of welded cylinders and rectangles, is the second to last sculpture in the tour. It has been captivating students in front of the UC Satellite since 1980, when it was purchased through the program. The final stop of the tour takes you through the legs of the three figures of American artist William King’s “Colllegium”. Made of aluminum, these 32-foot striders were commissioned in 1983 and are the center point of the largest plaza in north campus. The UH campus is large and there are some areas, depending on your major, that you may likely never visit and thus will likely miss out on seeing some great works of art. Pick up a map at the Welcome Center or the Blaffer Art Museum to discover UH’s hidden treasures. Visit www.uh.edu/arttour for more information.
VETE
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93
Launch your
journalism • advertising • graphic design • photography • publishing • business • marketing • sales • pre-press • multimedia • dream
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Ask any career counselor or potential employer, and they’ll tell you experience matters most. Get it here, along with key skills like working on a team and meeting daily deadlines. What’s more, the work you do has a real impact on your campus community and beyond. For detailed job descriptions and to download an application, visit www.uh.edu/sp/jobs or come by Room 7, UC Satellite, behind Starbucks.
U N I V E R S I T Y of H O U S T O N
When you don’t know where to go for assistance, come to the Dean of Students Office. That’s the suggestion of the staff members who provide assistance to all students with university-related concerns through the Dean of Students. Through the Ombudservice, Dean of Students staff members will provide assistance directly to students or make referrals to others on campus who can help. Promoting a campus environment that provides an opportunity for all students to learn and grow is an important function of the Office. This includes enforcing University policies and working with the University Hearing Board and the Student Traffic Court.
The Dean of STuDenTS office STaff are available
To aSSiST STuDenTS who have queSTionS or concernS.
Office Hours Fall and Spring, when claSSeS are in SeSSion: 8 aM To 6 PM, Monday-ThurSday, 8 aM To 5 PM Friday; all oTher TiMeS: 8 aM To 5 PM
For more information call
743-5470 or coMe by rM. 252 in The univerSiTy cenTer, hTTP://www.uh.eDu/DoS
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B E F O R E . Y O U . L E AV E
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See an Exhibit at BLAFFER gallery
The art department puts on some pretty spectacular displays. Don’t wait until it’s too late to see the stuff for free. See a play
UH BUCKET LIST
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You’ll see the flyers posted everywhere, but don’t miss the opportunity actually see a play. Hear the UH jazz band
The University has an amazing jazz band. It’s the perfect place to take a date. Get coffee at Cougar Grounds
There are two Starbucks on campus but there is only one Cougar Grounds. It’s actually quiet enough to study there. See every sport play once
Everyone will probably see a football game; that’s not good enough. Go out
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Do you miss meeting people, or always thought you might be good at dodgeball? Get involved and meet new people, then hit them with rubber. Get every ounce of your fees From the Rec center.
You’re paying for it, so work out and have fun at the Campus Recreation and Wellness Center. Write a story for The Daily Cougar
You don’t have to be journalism major to write for the paper. Apply and you might get to write something that you wouldn’t normally see in print.
IN.CLOSING
54
. TRANSFORMED, . TRANSFORMING.
UH
BY TRANSITIONS EDITOR // TRAVIS HENSLEY UH is a big school in one of the largest cities in the United
ended up not really having the time for. Through all of these mistakes, I’ve found that it is
States. At times, it’s going to be
the people who I have met along the way that have
to make the transition here.
made this university a worthwhile experience. The
This is the third college that I’ve attended, and it has given me opportunities that I didn’t think were possible.
TRANSITIONS STAFF Editor in chief // Travis Hensley MANAGING EDITOR // Jack Wehman Graphics Editor // Jorge Robles PRODUCTION ASSISTANT // Sarah Neill COVER DESIGN // Stan Le, Jorge Robles STAFF WRITERS // Matthew Keever, John Brannen, Andrew Taylor, Patricia Estrada, Ashley Evans, Jose Aguilar, Ronnie Turner and Joshua Siegel Advertising REPS // Victoria Gbenoba, Breanna Smith, Tahirah Banks, Zoa Khan
different people I’ve met have enriched my life in
//Contact us
ways a classroom could never do.
University of Houston Department of Student Publications 151C Communication Building Houston, TX 77204-4015 (713) 743-5350
The truth is you need to do silly things while
Having to drive a 45-minute commute, I thought that
you’re here. If you allow it to come through, you will
it was going to be impossible to make it to an 8 a.m.
realize that everyone is in the same boat as you. Give
class, or to make friends who I would see out of class.
yourself the opportunity to screw up, try things that
//About the magazinE
you wouldn’t normally do.
Transitions in published by the Department of Student Publications at the University of Houston. The magazine is intended for incoming freshmen and transfer students. No portion of the magazine may be reproduced without the written permission of the director of the Department of Student Publications.
My first month here, I parked in the same space that I used when checking on my transcripts, in the
If you do this, you will find out that the school
welcome center. It took a hurricane and some dam-
really isn’t that big. There are opportunities that exist
aged trees blocking a road before I realized how silly
only for you. No one will have the same experience
I was.
in college; this doesn’t mean that you’re alone. It just
There is a long list of things that I have done here
means that when the hard times at this university
that didn’t really work out. I’ve over slept for classes.
have come, you will have people surrounding you
There were student organizations that I tried, but
who will make it truly unique.
SUMMER 10 | VOLUME 20
Your Cougar Card is your key to the campus.
GET ONE. HERE’s HOw. 1. Students will have their photos taken in Suite 101, Welcome Center Parking Garage. 2. A Cougar Card will be produced at that time. 3. All functionality will be placed on the card at the beginning of each semester.
Cougar Card Office: Suite 101, Welcome Center Parking Garage 8 am – 5 pm Monday thru Friday
FOR MORE INFORMATION
VISIT www.UH.EDU/COUGARCARD
CALL 832-842-CARD
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