CLASS BRANDING SHAPING STUDENT IDENTITY MAJOR DECISIONS CHOOSE NOW OR DECLARE LATER
CASE COMES BACK UH QUARTERBACK BEATS INJURY
SUMMER 11 | VOLUME 22
The UEI provides comprehensive eye care, from vision examinations and contact lenses, to the medical and surgical management of eye disorders
See the difference ...See the best!
Open to the public
Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. The University Eye Institute
4901 Calhoun, (at the corner of Calhoun and Wheeler) Phone: 713.743.2020 Web: www.uei.uh.edu Free Patient Parking (use the Wheeler St. entrance) The University of Houston is an EEO/AA institution.
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WELCOME T O
T H E
P R I D E
TRANSITIONS // 3 //
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CONTENTS ///////////////////// CLASS BRANDING // 14
Find your place at UH and get acquainted with Cougar traditions
MAJORS/MINORS // 20 Discover the most popular majors and minors
ATHLETICS // 24
UH Quarterback Case Keenum returns for his fourth season
SERVICES // 30
Take advantage of the free resources and amenities offered on campus
RESIDENT & LIVING // 13 Residential halls offer various benefits to students living on campus
GREEK LIFE // 22 Students can choose from multiple groups and organizations
SAFETY // 34 Best ways to maintain safety at UH
Q & A // 36 Sophomore gives his take on his freshman experience
HOW TO // 40 Your guide to college survival in the classroom and the real world
ARTS // 46 Houston locals appreciate art on and off campus
// 6 // TRANSITIONS
Friday, May 6, 2011
Reginald Riley - 3-9505 Senior Assoc Dir, Facilities Jay Parks - 3-9511 Assoc. Director, Programs Thomas Payne - 3-0218 Asst. Dir., Facilities Ops Joe J. Woodson - 3-9509 Asst. Dir.Aquatics & Safety Melanee Wood - 3-9503 Asst. Director, Fitness Adam Finney - 3-9506 Asst. Director Intramural Sports Caleb Wells - 3-0808 Asst. Director, Outdoor Adventure M. Vyckie Avila - 3-9501 Asst Director for Markt. & Memberships Rachel Barron - 3-9928 Business Administrator
Floyd W. Robinson Interim Director Campus Recreation 713-743-5478
Juanita Jackson Asst to the VP 713-743-5385
Pat L. Sayles Interim Division Administrator 713-743-8761
David Small - 3-5110 Director, University Career Services Janet Civatelli - 3-5093 Assoc Director for Career Counseling Theresa Cyr – 3-5095 Asst Director for Campus Recruiting Marilyn Wade – 3-5092 Asst Director for Alumni Career Services Sudarate Saudale – 3-5100 LAN Admimnistrator Matt Dulin - 3 -5335 Manager, Student Publications Michael Fain – 3-9326 Director, Debate & Forensics Jazel Borja – 3-5123 Manager, College WorkStudy & JOBank
David Small Assoc VP Student Services 713-743-5110
Footnote * RLH currently reports to A&F; we understand it will return to VPSA
Cecilia Sun - 3-5409 Assistant Director for Training Vacant Assistant Director for Clincial Services Kimberly James 3-5407 Assistant Director for Outreach Services Wes Schweke – 3-5437 LAN Administrator Tonya Winters – 3-5454 Office Coordinator Michelle Le – 3-9160 Financial Coordinator
Norma Ngo Director, Counseling & Psychological Services 713-743-5599
Patricia Magdaleno Interim Exec Admin. Asst 713-743-5390
Mary Rae – 3-5148 Chief of Medical Staff Laura Moore – 3-5133 Chief Nurse Kizzy Steward – 3-5128 Chief Pharmacist Chi Eziakonwa - 713-748-8603 Attendant Care Services Darryl Creeks – 3-5143 Statistical Analyst Jennifer Graham – 3-5139 Office Coordinator Mary Munguia – 3-5129 Financial Coordinator
Floyd W. Robinson Director, Health Center 713-743-5145
713-743-5392
Lawrence Daniel – 2-4845 Dir. Market. Comm & Retail Bill Schwehr – 2-6198 Asst. Director, UC Leisure Services Sam Nguyen – 2-6170 Asst. Director, UC Technology Support Marcella Leung - 2-6210 Dir. Center for Student Involvement (CSI) Carrie Miller – 2-6212 Asst. Director for Campus Trad., CSI Rommel Abad -2-6249 Asst. Director for Campus Life., CSI Jason Bergeron – 2-4950 Assoc. Dir. Ctr. for Lead. and Frat./Sor. Life
Keith T. Kowalka Asst VP for Student Dev 832-842-6151
Director, UH Wellness
Kamran Riaz- 2-6177 Associate Dean of Students Myra Conley- 2-6180 Assistant Dean of Students Vacant Assistant Dean of Students Alison Von Burgen -2-6178 Assistant Dean of Students Gail Hudson-Gillan – 3-5461
William F. Munson Assoc VC/Assoc VP for Student Dev & Dean of Students 832-842-6182
Noel Clarke – 2-6158 Business Administrator Cheryl Grew-Gillen - 2-6152 Dir. UC Facilities & Operations Henry Anderson - 2-6155 Asst. Director, UC Building Services James Pettijohn - 2-6165 Asst. Director, UC Event Services Bruce Twenhafel - 3-5050 Manager, A.D. Bruce Religion Center Sherry Howard – 2-0501 Dir. Children’s Learning Centers (CLC) Jennifer Skopal – 2-0502 Asst. Director, CLC
Mark Vitek – 3-6026 Asst. Director, Res. Life Lin Crowson – 2-6024 Senior Area Coordinator Maria Honey – 3-8940 Marketing Manager Esmeralda Valdez – 3 – 8751 Interim Director, Housing
Emily Messa, Asst VP* Interim Exec. Director Res. Life & Housing 832-842-8184
Noel Clarke Business Administrator Central Business Office 832-842-6158
Diane Murphy Assoc VP for Student Affairs Administration 713-743-5388
Mike Lawrence Interim Vice President for Student Affairs
Supporting student success Campus Activities Campus Recreation Children’s Learning Centers Counseling and Psychological Services Dean of Students Office Health Center Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs Religion Center Student Publications University of Houston Wellness University Career Services University Centers Urban Experience Program Veterans’ Services Office
114 E. Cullen Building
713-743-5390
www.uh.edu/dsa
We’re here for you! TRANSITIONS // 7 //
LeTTer From The senaTe
The senaTe As Speaker of the Senate, it is my duty to coordinate communication between the legislative and the executive branches and to convey the Senate’s opinion and vote to various entities. The legislative branch is made up of the 34 senators that serve their respective colleges through whatever means best fits their constituency. It is integral to the mission and purpose of the Student Government Association that every student knows their senator.
- Speaker of the Senate, Reyes Ramirez Speaker Pro Tempore of the Senate Senator- Undergraduate At-Large, Seat #1 Senator- Undergraduate At-Large, Seat #2 Senator- Undergraduate At-Large, Seat #3 Senator- Undergraduate At-Large, Seat #4 Senator- Graduate At-Large, Seat #1 Senator- Graduate At-Large, Seat #2
Robert “Lee” Arnold Anna Fisher Stephen Cronin Jared Gogets Ashley Makonis Sean Tarver Melanie Pang
Senator- College of Senator- College of Senator- College of Senator- College of Senator- College of Senator- College of
Sebastian Geser Cameron McHugh Akinola Sholotan Rani Ramchandani Amanda Van Tilborg Denise McDougal
Business, Seat#1 Business, Seat #2 Business, Seat #3 Business, Seat #4 Education, Seat #1 Education, Seat #2
Senator- College of Engineering, Seat #2 Senator- College of Hotel and Restaurant Management Senator- College of Law Senator- College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences, Seat #1 Senator- College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences, Seat #2 Senator- College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences, Seat #3 Senator- College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences, Seat #4 Senator- College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences, Seat #5 Senator- College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences, Seat #6 Senator- College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences, Seat #7 Senator- College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, Seat #1 Senator- College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, Seat #2 Senator- College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, Seat #3 Senator- College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, Seat #4 Senator- College of Pharmacy Senator- Graduate College of Social Work Senator- College of Technology, Seat #1 Senator- College of Technology, Seat #2 Senator- Honors College
Kennan Stuhr Anthony Agi William Monticello Camila Cossio Ana Velasquez Robert “Lee” Arnold Jeff Syptak Lucia M. Ayala-Guerra Brittany Herzog Mike Nguyen Bela Patel John Flynt Fahd Zahed Josie Ceasar Rachel Harvey Alma Carrillo Naeem Abdullah Joaquin Iraheta Maggie McCartney
Information and contact information for senators can be found on the SGA web site at www.sga.uh.edu or uh.edu/sga. // 8 // TRANSITIONS
Michael H. Harding
Craig Premjee
President, Student Government Association
Vice President, Student Government Association
Greetings Future Cougars, Welcome to the University of Houston; this historic campus can serve as a liaison between reality and achieving your dreams. The University of Houston offers a venue for life-changing experiences and an opportunity to build new friendships and relationships that will last a lifetime. I’m sure you are asking yourself, “What’s so special about the University of Houston?” I ask you, my friend, what’s not special about the University of Houston? UH is not only a Carnegie ranked Tier One research university, it is also home to a student body that ranks second in diversity nationally. I would like to personally welcome you to this beautiful campus that I call home. I would also like to challenge you to step outside your comfort zone and meet new individuals from different cultures, ethnicities, and backgrounds. Consider creating relationships with faculty, staff, and administrators, and to discover UH’s broad array of co-curricular activities. Lastly, I want you all to remember that this is college and will be some of the best years of your lives. Throughout your time here, please keep in mind the ways the Student Government Association (SGA) can assist your pursuit of a college degree and a Tier One experience. We are here to represent the interests and voice the concerns of each and every student on this campus.
Looking forward to meeting all of you, and Go Coogs! President Michael H. Harding President, Student Government Association Craig Premjee is a senior studying at the Bauer College of Business pursuing a double major in Finance and Management. He currently presides as the Student Government Association Vice President where he works with fellow student leaders, faculty, staff and administration on initiatives focused on communication, accountability, and community on campus. Craig has been very involved throughout his time here at the University of Houston. He started out as an Orientation Team Leader and served for three years. He worked as the Director of the Orientation Program in 2010; during this time he learned the history and great traditions of the University and became knowledgeable of the different departments on campus. He is also a founding member of the Kappa Sigma Fraternity where he held the office of President during the 2009-2010 term and still serves as an active member. “I love The University of Houston and I want every student to cherish this campus as I do.”
Your SGA CAbinet LeAderS Associate Director for Governmental Relations Interim Director of Public Relations Associate Director for Public Relations Director of Finance Advisor/Director of the Center for Student Involvement Executive Secretary
John Villagomez Erika Sanchez Kelsey Edwards J. Turner Harris Marcella Leung Shirley Johnson
How to get involved.
Don’t miss your opportunity to be active on campus. Visit our website (sga.uh.edu or uh.edu/sga) to inquire how to enhance your professional sphere by applying to our internship program or serving on the following university panels: Graduate & Professional Studies University Commission on Women Library Committee Teaching Excellence Awards Committee Undergraduate Admissions Review Committee Bookstore Advisory Committee Food Services Advisory Committee Safety & Security Advisory Committee Transportation & Parking Advisory Committee Activities Funding Board A.D. Bruce Religion Center Policy Board Child Care Center Advisory Board
Student Publications Committee Substance Abuse Prevention & Education Committee Financial Aid and Scholarships Advisory Sustainability Task Force Student Traffic Court Residential Life and Housing Health Center Policy Board International Students Advisory Council Center for Student w/ DisAbilties Advisory Board Center for Student Involvement Advisory Board Recreation Advisory Committee Student Fee Advisory Committee
Visit our office at University Center Rm. 57 (In the University Center Underground) or give us a call at 832-842-6225 to find out how you can participate! for more information go to www.uh.edu/sga TRANSITIONS // 9 //
INTRODUCTION
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WELCOME TO COUGAR LIFE MARK YOUR SPOT IN HISTORY TEXT BY MONIQUA SEXTON
UH COUGAR PRIDE HAS BEEN DISTINCTIVELY REPRESENTED through decades of traditions. One of the most popular statements on campus is the University’s official colors: Scarlet Red and Albino White. The colors are splashed on walls and placed on flags, but you can mostly find them worn by students and faculty. UH gear is sold at campus bookstores, and T-shirts are often given away for free at various activities like TOSS: Trade in Other School’s Shirts, which takes place in front of the M.D. Anderson Library. “I think TOSS is a great idea,” said Marissa Williams, public relations senior. “It’s a great way to get people more spirited.” Another important and well-established UH tradition is Frontier Fiesta. Every year since 1940, student organizations and alumni recreate a 19th century western town that features carnival booths, barbecue cookoffs, live music and much more. The popular
and lively student held event is free to all UH students. The tradition of the Cougar Paw originated in 1953 after a football game against the University of Texas. The real life Shasta at the time, the Cougar mascot, dislodged one of her fingers in a cage door and when Longhorn fans learned about the wound they began mocking her by holding up the current Cougar Paw. The longhorns beat the Cougars that day. Decades later in 1976, UH fans held up the same sign against the Longhorns as a form of solidarity; that day, the Cougar defeated the Longhorns 30-0 in their first season in the Southwest Conference. Students still take great pride in the famous paw sign, and it will remain a part of Cougar history. Football games have always been one of the largest participating Cougar activities. Faculty, students and alumni all join and often take part in school chants at the games. So if you hear, “Whose House?” make sure you join in answering that it’s, “Coogs House!”
//Photo by BRIANNA LEIGH MORRISON
// 1 0 // TRANSITIONS
What should I major in? Find your niche @ CLASS. Anthropology *Art
Art Art History Graphic Communications Painting Photography/Digital Media Sculpture
Communication
Communication Sciences & Disorders Communication Disorders American Sign Language
Economics *English Creative Writing Linguistics Literary’ Studies
Liberal Studies
Philosophy
*Modern & Classical Languages
Political Science
Chinese Studies Classical Studies French German German Area Studies Italian Studies
Psychology Sociology Theatre & Dance Performance *Dance Design Technology
Advertising Music Health and Human Corporate Communication Applied Music Performance Health Communication Instrumental Kinesiology Public Health Promotion Vocal Exercise Science Health Care Delivery Piano Sports Administration Interpersonal Communication Organ Wellness and Fitness Journalism Music Theory Human Nutrition and Foods Broadcast Music Composition Print Media *Hispanic Studies *Bachelor of Music Media Production Spanish 1. Music Business Media Studies *History 2. Music Religion Public Relations * Teacher Certification Available. Please Consult the Department Advisor for More Information.
RS
AJO
M
African American Studies
English
Mexican American Studies
Political Science
Air Force Leadership Anthropology
Creative Writing Linguistics Literar Studies
Military Science (Army ROTC)
Values, Law and Policy Quantitative Social Science National Security Studies
Art Studio Art Art History
Communication
Advertising Corporate Communication Film Studies Health Communication Public Health Promotion Health Care Delivery Interpersonal Communication Journalism Media Production Media Studies Public Relations
Health and Human Performance Kinesiology Human Nutrition and Foods
Hispanic Studies Spanish Spanish for Business Professionals
Modern & Classical Languages
Chinese Classical Studies French French for Business Professionals German German Area Studies Greek Italian Latin World Cultures and literatures
Latin American Studies American Cultures History
Honors College
Music
Communication Sciences & Disorders
Creative Work Medicine and Society Phronesis, Politics, and Ethics
Naval Science (Navy ROTC)
Economics
Interdisciplinary Arts
Philosophy
History
Music Literature/History Music Theory
Psychology Religious Studies Sociology Theatre & Dance Dance
Women’s Studies Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Transgender Studies Women’s Studies
RS
O MIN
For more information please visit us online, call or drop by: CLASS Academic Affairs Center 320 Agnes Arnold 713-743-4001 www.uh.edu/class
TRANSITIONS // 1 1 //
SHOW
COUGAR ///////////////////// PRIDE // COUGAR PAW //
Fold the ring finger of your right hand toward your palm and hold it down with your thumb. Proudly hold up the Cougar Paw at sports events to show support for your team, it’s tradition.
// WEAR RED // Wear red on Friday to show your Cougar spirit. Some professors offer extra credit to students who do. Everybody loves a Coog.
// LEARN THE COUGAR FIGHT SONG // “Cougars fight for dear old U of H For our Alma Mater cheer. Fight for Houston University For victory is near. When the going gets so rough and tough We never worry cause we got the stuff. So fight, fight, fight for red and white And we will go to victory.” Lyrics: Forest Fountain • Music: Marion Ford
// LEARN THE ALMA MATER // “All hail to thee, Our Houston University. Our hearts fill with gladness When we think of thee. We’ll always adore thee Dear old varsity. And to thy memory cherished, True we’ll ever be.” Words and music by Harmony Class of 1942
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 – Men welcome
•
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 (832) 842-6191 Or come by our offices - 279A University Center // 1 2 // TRANSITIONS
TEXT BY JULIAN JIMENEZ IT’S A TUESDAY AFTERNOON AND I’M RECLINING IN THE middle of a large, comfortable couch in the commons of Cougar Place Residence Halls. I can feel my weight sinking into the wellworn cushions as I blast my way through a horde of zombies in a video game on the big screen TV in front of me. It’s not easy to stay focused; my eyes keep darting the group of girls playing a game of Monopoly in the corner of the room. I can hear laughter behind me as my roommate swaps jokes with a classmate at the lobby desk. I run out of ammo and quickly get swarmed. It’s too tough to play alone, so I introduce myself to a scrawny kid in a red shirt, reading at a table and ask him for help. First, I take a quick glance at my watch — twenty minutes until my next class starts. “Plenty of time,” I think to myself as I smile and kick my feet up on the table to start a new game. This is just another day of living on campus. And while being a resident here doesn’t always guarantee lazy afternoons of video games and relaxing, moments like these are surprisingly common — whether it be a game of Frisbee in front of the library or sharing notes in the study rooms. Introducing yourself to peers is not only encouraged, but practically guaranteed if you’re a resident in campus housing. “Living on campus enhances your college experience,” said Teeba Rose, marketing manager for the Resident Life Halls. “You have a chance to make some real memories and connections. You can take part in programs and events the moment you get out of class — things like movie night, plays or concerts happen all the time.” Residence life on campus is split up into five different housing areas: Calhoun Lofts, Cougar Place, Cougar Village, Moody Towers and the Quadrangle. In addition, each hall is split up further
by “theme housing,” which puts residents into areas that combine students with similar interests. The themes cover a wide variety of subjects and majors intended to make students feel at home. “All the other freshmen just moved in (too), so they were more open to making friends,” said Heshan Peththa, Earth science sophomore from the Quadrangle. “Then again, everyone at UH is very friendly. I even have some professors on my Facebook.” There are a number of practical benefits that come with being a campus resident. Rachel Walrath, an English literature freshman living in Cougar Village said she loves how much she saves financially, especially on gas. “I know people who drive an hour to get to class every day, and an hour to get home,” Walrath said. “In my car, that’s almost a half-tank of gas.” She said that since most students are commuters and go home on the weekends, so she enjoys how calm and quiet the campus gets for studying. In addition to all the benefits, most residence halls have Resident Assistants to support students and to ensure that every student’s living experience here is a positive one. The assistants maintain order and promote a wide range of programs from teaching students how to get a job, to effective studying habits. “I’ve been pleasantly surprised with the quality of the RA’s I’ve met,” Cougar Place resident and junior John Davis said. “I’ve learned to assume they are going through the same things I am.” Living on campus is an excellent opportunity for college students. The benefits and conveniences of dorm life can drastically shape your college experience into a most memorable one.
//Students can use the housing lounges to study for classes.
HOUSING
CAMPUS LIVING
BUILDING UP
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CLASS BRANDING WHERE DO YOU FIT IN? TEXT BY HIBA ADI AND SARAH RASLAN THE UNIVERSITY OF HOUSTON ADMINISTRATION and staff recently created an identity for the incoming freshman class through “class branding”. The admissions counselors and recruiters have worked to craft a “class” for two years now. Orientation officials have carefully designed marketing products, brochures and books to promote the concept. “Class branding helps students understand that they are now a part of something larger than themselves, and the opportunities afforded to them while at UH are world class,” said Tara Boyle, assistant director of the New Student Orientation. Branding may be new to UH, but it isn’t for most University’s or colleges around the nation. Boyle said that a strong branding // 1 4 // TRANSITIONS
could increase applications and institutional enrollment. The idea goes beyond just unifying students; it’s intended to direct them towards one common end goal – graduating from UH with the rest of their class. But what about the students who have different degree plans? Yes, most students are following a four-year plan, but some degrees require five or six years. Are those students considered behind their “class” even though technically they are graduating on time? Not all new students are High School graduates; some are transfers. Which “class” are they apart of ? What about the seniors from Class of 2012 or juniors from Class of 2013? They may feel isolated from their fellow freshman and sophomore Cougars for now.
ASHLEY EVANS// The O-Team enjoyed a day in the sun in the UCSatellite courtyard.
STUDENTS WEIGH-IN
//Photo by ASHLEY EVANS
I’M A FRESHMAN AND I’VE BEEN IN CLASSES WITH JUNIORS AND DON’T EVER FEEL DISCOURAGED BY THEM. Boyle said that administrators have created advertisements on social networks like Facebook for classes that were already at UH when the idea developed, like Class of 2012 or Class of 2013, and that their “classes” already feel more unified through these techniques. “Students are able to see how they fit into the academic and social culture of the institution,” Boyle said. “(They) are able to see exactly what benefits they receive from being a Cougar.” In order to achieve Flagship status, it may be necessary for UH to join other major universities in grasping this branding concept.
Every freshman hears about how they will be singled out in college and picked on by upperclassmen for being the little “fish”. On the first day of classes new students try their best to look like they’ve been around campus for a while, hoping to blend in with everyone else. This is not the case at UH. The upperclassmen were once freshmen, and they remember what their first year of college was like. On the first day of classes, if they see a lost Freshman, most of them try to help by guiding them towards their classes or assisting them with whatever they may need help with. UH academics actually have impacted this because UH does not separate classes according to classification. This is particularly beneficial for freshmen and transfer students because of their learning experience. Freshmen and sophomores exchange advice and studying techniques with each other. “I’m a freshman and I’ve been in classes with juniors and don’t ever feel discouraged by them,” said Hadeel Bunkheila, economics freshman. “Being a freshman at UH does not ever make me a victim to bullying or any jokes. I think it was a bigger deal in high school.” Therefore, the idea of class branding may increase this positive culture even more. Paolo Domenichini, a 22-year-old psychology senior, agrees with the administrators. He said he thinks class branding would help students form groups and have more ties to the university. “I believe that scholastically, it would allow the students as a group to identify with one another more and help them relate to their peers,” he said. While some students found class branding to be an enhancing experience in college life, others had different feelings towards the issue. “I’m against it,” said Sammy Khayat, 21-year-old Biochemistry junior. “The whole college experience that UH is trying to promote is to bring together people from all ages, races, and cultures. Branding classifications leads to separation and the loss of unity to the university as a whole.” TRANSITIONS // 1 5 //
NEW TRADITIONS WILL FORM Class branding will likely form new traditions at UH — and every tradition has to start somewhere. Since we’re in an era of embracing change and new ideas then we might as well start now. Yes, there are still some unanswered questions and some upperclassmen won’t benefit from the concept as much right now, but in the long run there will be a class brand for all four levels of classification. Separating freshmen from seniors with titles may not cause a division, because in the end we’re all Cougars. Class branding will probably give new students an automatic feeling of acceptance coming into UH. To all new students, take pride in the fact that you’re entering the University as trendsetters.
ASHLEY EVANS// The Orientation team shows its Cougar pride in front of the M.D. Anderson Library.
Join the nation’s #1 entrepreneurship program, no matter what major you’re pursuing. Earn a Corporate Entrepreneurship Certificate or Global Business Minor.
Ranked the #1 Undergraduate Entrepreneurship Program in the U.S. by The Princeton Review and Entrepreneur magazine.
// 1 6 // TRANSITIONS
The Cyvia and Melvyn Wolff Center for Entrepreneurship
Register for: ENTR 3310 ENTR 3312 www.bauer.uh.edu/wce
The University of Houston is an EEO/AA institution. C. T. Bauer College of Business is an AACSB accredited business school.
Your Cougar Card is your key to the campus.
how do I get It? Visit www.uh.edu/cougarcard or call 832.843.CARD (2273)
And there’s more... us. Eat on camp
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• On-line Photo Submittal • Access Control to Residential Housing • Enrollment Verification • Campus Recreation & Wellness Center Access • Classroom Attendance • Access to UH Sporting Events
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Last Name Student
TRANSITIONS // 1 7 //
Welcome back!
from the University
www.uh.edu/uc A.D. Bruce Religion Center Center for Leadership and Fraternity & Sorority Life (CLFSL) Center for Student Involvement (CSI) Children Learning Centers (CLC) University Center (UC) UC Satellite The University Centers welcome all new and returning Cougars for the 2011-12 school year. As an ever growing community of services, leadership, and pride, we invite you to take advantage of the many programs, services, and facilities available to you. The University Centers provide everything you may need including food, student organizations, child care, leader ship development, fraternity and sorority life, leisure services, graphic services, colleagues in faith, and much more. Let the University Centers be the “center� of your campus experiences. // 1 8 // TRANSITIONS
-
Centers
H OUSTON
UNIVERSITY OF
BOOKSTORE
VETERANS SERVICES OFFICE
TRANSITIONS // 1 9 //
MAJORS & MINORS
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//Students can utilize the resources at any of the five UH libraries.
CHOOSING A MAJOR UCS OFFERS GUIDANCE TO STUDENTS TEXT BY ELIZE NAJM IN THE PAST, CHOOSING A MAJOR WAS CHOOSING
your future. You were committing to spend your college career studying a subject with the intent of entering that field and working in it for the remainder of your life. In today’s society and the always-changing economy, that is not the case. Students have much more freedom in their educational path and its influence with their future careers. Now, the question remains, what should you study? Should you base your decision on the current state of the economy? Should you base your decision on your future professional career? Or pursue your passion? Currently, 35 percent of incoming UH students are undecided about what major or minor they want to study. Students are required to declare a major upon reaching 30 credit hours, which is typically by the end of their second semester. About a quarter of students who start their college career with a declared major will change their major at least once before graduating. For now, the most popular chosen majors at UH are psychology, biology and business. The College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences is the largest department on campus, followed by University Scholars and the business school. Some students wish to enter these colleges because it’s within their interest, while others see a degree like business as a gateway to a related but different career. Adding a minor is a beneficial and often required tool used by students to supplement a major. A major/minor combination can help highlight one’s area of study and make them more specialized in a field // 2 0 // TRANSITIONS
when it comes to applying for jobs. An example of this would be choosing a business major with a minor in accounting. In other cases, adding a minor could prove to diversify your knowledge base. For example, if a student hopes to one day own an art gallery and decides to major in art but also wants to know how to manage the business side of owning and operating the gallery, they could add a minor in business administration. Many students who plan on entering law school upon graduation major in political science and choose a writing/research intensive minor. When deciding upon a minor, a thought that many students do not begin to consider until their senior year, is important if they wish to continue their education with an advanced degree. Many majors, such as biology or psychology, are chosen as stepping stones to careers requiring further education, while other majors such as architecture or media studies tend to fulfill the educational necessities of their given fields. The majors that lead most students to graduate school are typically science-, education- and business-related. Students who are unsure of what they want to major in or are doubting the major they have already declared can stop by the University Career Services office for free aptitude testing and a counseling session. The economy has been one of the most prominent focal points in today’s society, and as mentioned students are beginning to wonder if they should chose a major or career path based upon the current job market. According to the Chicago Tribune, career experts said students should major in the area that most interests them, even if it’s a less specialized liberal arts field, such as English or sociology. In a national survey, communication, followed closely by a strong work ethic and teamwork skills, was rated as the most important attribute
sought by employers. When you enjoy what you do, you are more likely to succeed at your job. Therefore, it’s important to be educated on the state of the economy and job market, but it may not be necessary to base your career path on it. According to a study done by Ebay Classifieds in March 2011, the career field with the highest projected rate of growth is Biomedical Engineering followed by other health care careers. A similar study done by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that computer network systems and data communication analysis showed the largest projected area of growth by 2016. The most demanded and highest paying job today is medical science liaison, according to CNN. This position requires knowledge in both the medical and legal fields and consists of relaying information to providers, potential clients, insurance companies and doctors. If you are one of the students who is unsure of what career path you should pursue, consider using the provided student services. If you prefer self guidance and exploration try walking into the UH bookstores located in the University Center to scan different textbooks to see what catches your interest. Who knows? Maybe a little exploring will inspire you. //Students have to decide between 120 undergraduate major and minors.
10% OFF
purchase of $15 or more DISCOUNT CODE: UH10
TRANSITIONS // 2 1 //
ORGANIZATIONS
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//Bayou Oaks provides on-campus housing for Greeks.
RUSH INTO GREEK LIFE GET INVOLVED WITH UH GROUPS TEXT AND PHOTO BY JASMINE UMENYI UPON ENTERING COLLEGE, FRESHMEN ARE EXPOSED TO ALL types of organizations that include service opportunities and ways to enhance their personal social life. It might be difficult to decide which organization best fits their personal preference, but there are over 400 organizations for students to choose from. Each student is bound to fit into one organization or another. Greek Life specifically is one of the largest organizations on all US campuses. They stomp. They serve. They speak on issues that affect not only the student body, but the community too. The Greeks on our campus live to learn, to lead and to love. The importance and the significance of the Greek Life is not often spoken about, but luckily, there are various reasons as to why Greek Life has a vibrant presence on the UH campus. “Greek life is important to me because of the impact you can have on people’s lives, and also the impact it can have on your personal life,” said Chester Uzoma, supply chain management senior and member of the Eta Mu chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity. “Since joining the (fraternity) my life has changed dramatically… It has honestly been a privilege to be a part of something great; a part of something bigger than myself.” There is a sense of fellowship and inclusiveness that is carried with the involvement of Greek Life. This is not only with one another, but also with the surrounding community of the Third Ward.
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Being a part of Greek Life is not simply wearing your fraternity/sorority letters and having social events. As Uzoma said, it is an influential and historic organization that stands for many things, but ultimately, uplifting humankind. Individuals in Greek Life often benefit from the personal relationships they form during their college years, and ultimately for life. It is especially beneficial to freshmen that enter the University alone. “No other organization can help you foster the brotherhood and the bonds you experience in the frat,” said Kaine Hampton, finance senior and member of the Eta Mu chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity. Each member grows a desire to develop a vibrant style of leadership and social skills throughout this period in their lives. The skills they gain are useful for future encounters and for their future professional careers. Many members of Greek Life said they encourage freshman to research the different Greek organizations that they might be interested in. “You would want to know how the fraternity/sorority came about, and what they were founded upon,” Uzoma said. The Center for Leadership and Fraternity & Sorority Life is located in the UC Underground for students to learn more about the different Greek organizations on campus.
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 TRANSITIONS // 2 3 //
ATHLETICS
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THE ‘CASE’ COMES BACK UH QUARTERBACK DEFEATS INJURY TEXT BY JOHN BRANNEN IN THE THIRD GAME OF THE 2010 SEASON AGAINST THE University of California, Los Angeles, UH Quarterback Case Keenum limped off the field and was driven away in a golf cart to the locker room. It was not supposed to end this way. He chased after a defender who had intercepted his pass. When attempting the tackle he fell to the floor and tore his anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee. In a season where the Cougars thought they could win every game on their schedule, they finished 5-7 in Keenum’s absence. The quarterback had to do some soul-searching and make the difficult decision of either preparing for the NFL draft, or appealing for a sixth season of eligibility. He chose to stay, and officially filed for an appeal to the NCAA for a sixth season in December. “This ending wasn’t exactly what I predicted for my senior year, and because I care so much about this team and this University; I would love to be able to play one more season,” Keenum said in a statement in October. “I don’t know what the outcome will be, but I at least want to see the whole process through.” After weeks of waiting, the NCAA ruled in Keenum’s favor just in the nick of time — a day before the deadline to apply for the // 2 4 // TRANSITIONS
NFL draft. He now gets a chance to re-write the ending to his prolific career at UH, instead of the abrupt ending at the Rose Bowl. “I’m just going to love the moment and enjoy every second of it, because not many people get a second chance,” Keenum said. “I definitely am very thankful and very happy.” Keenum earned his bachelor’s degree last December in kinesiology, and with his sixth season he is seeking a masters degree in sports administration. In his four seasons playing for the Cougars he has racked up what seems to be a never-ending list of accolades. In 2008 he was
I’M JUST GOING TO LOVE THE MOMENT AND ENJOY EVERY SECOND OF IT, BECAUSE NOT MANY PEOPLE GET A SECOND CHANCE. the Conference USA Offensive Player of the Year and in 2009 he was C-USA’s Most Valuable Player. He also won the Sammy Baugh trophy in 2009, which is given to the NCAA’s best quarterback. He
BRIANNA LEIGH MORRISON // Crowds of students fill up the freshly renovated Robertson Stadium during home games.
UH MOST POPULAR
/////////////////////////////////////// SPORTS: NEWTON LIU // UH Quarterback Case Keenum will be returning for his fourth season this fall.
finished eighth in voting for the Heisman Trophy in 2009. Keenum owns the career records at UH for passing yards, total offense, passing attempts and passing completions. In his last two full seasons at UH Keenum threw for more than 5,000 yards. If he can stay healthy in 2011 he has a change at becoming the NCAA’s most prolific passer in history. Hawaii’s Timmy Chang owns the record, but if Keenum can throw for 3,487 yards in 2011 the record will belong to him. Keenum was limited during the spring season, but he is expecting to be 100 percent for this season’s opening game against UCLA on Sept. 3. Throughout his rehabilitation Keenum said his goal is to come back stronger than he was before the injury. Keenum and the University have undergone drastic changes since his arrival five years ago. Keenum has helped re-establish UH football on the national scene. Ask anyone around the country about UH, and the first name they will likely say is “Case Keenum.”
// FOOTBALL // The University of Houston Department of Intercollegiate Athletics announced that three games for the 2011 football season have been changed to Thursday nights to be broadcasted live on television.
WHERE TO SIT Sections 117-119, 217-219 & 209-216. All student sections are general admission. Admission is first-come, firstserved and based on availability.
// BASKETBALL // All UH Students are admitted FREE to regular season men and women’s basketball home games. Each student must present a valid Cougar Card at the Cullen Street side of the renovated Hofheinz Pavilion for admission.
WHERE TO SIT Sections 117-119. All student sections are general admission. Admission is first-come, firstserved and based on availability.
// BASEBALL // Head Coach Todd Whitting and the Cougar Baseball team are in season during the spring semester. Baseball season kicks off in early February.
WHERE TO SIT Section 108 until filled then anywhere in the 200 level. All student sections are general admission. Admission is first-come, first-served and based on availability.
TRANSITIONS // 2 5 //
TRANSPORTATION
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FINDING A SPOT SERVICES EXPAND PARKING SPACES TEXT BY DANIEL RENFROW
UH IS A DIVERSE UNIVERSITY, BUT ONE THING WE ALL “We will be doubling the amount of spaces we had there before. “In total, four parking garages will be completed by fall 2015, have in common here is an unstable relationship with the parking adding around 3,000 new spaces, including 950 spaces for students lots. It’s no secret that finding a parking space on campus can be with Economy permits. This is intended to reduce customer coma hassle for students. That’s not to say that we don’t have numer- plaints and improve visitor and special event parking. “The garages are going to benefit us tremendously in the future,” ous parking spaces — the University actually has a lot of available spaces. But with UH being a commuter school, there tends to be Chin said. In the mean time, 400 additional spaces will be made available overcrowding in the lots. One of the best things students can do to alleviate parking frus- in the Cullen Intramural Fields. Officials said they would be putting tration and the risk of tardiness is to leave home early enough to gravel, lighting and emergency boxes. The University has 14 of these shuttles to take students to and give them a 30 minute window to try to find parking. The department of Parking and Transportation Services is from parking lots to campus. “We constantly assess how many shuttles are on campus,” Chin aware of the issue, and is doing everything it can do to ensure that said. “We want to make sure we are efficient.” UH students are taken care of. Political science sophomore James Lee is one of the many stuAccording to University Services program coordinator, Jonas Chin, UH’s goal is to have 5 percent of the campus community using dents who regularly utilizes shuttles on campus. “I think the shuttles are a great way to get around on campus,” alternative methods of transportation by the end of 2012. Students who live close could ride their bikes to school, or stu- Lee said. “They are readily available for students to use.” Students who live on campus and do not have a car can get dents who live further away could carpool with other students to save money on gas and parking permits. The University also has a around using Hertz rental cars. According to Chin, students must be 18 or older and have a driver’s license in order to rent one of partnership with METRO buses. “Every time a student uses their METRO Q Card, they get 50 the cars. Students can visit the Hertz website and apply for a Hertz membership card. After approval students can begin reserving cars percent off,” Chin said. According to parking and university services, students who for trips to off campus grocery stores, run errands or attend off ride METRO from local routes pay on average $63 a month, which campus events. The rental rate for a UH student starts at $7, including gas, saves them up to $400 a year. Students who ride METRO from and 180 miles of driving a day. longer routes could potentially save over $430 a year. According to Chin, only 33 other universities have partnerUH is about to begin several construction projects like parking garages that will be built close to the Robertson Stadium opening in ships with Hertz. Though parking remains a student issue, there are various fall of 2012 to help alleviate the issue as well. “The stadium garage will have 2,400 (parking) spaces,” Chin said. services and options that students can choose from.
NAHEEDA SAYEEDUDDIN//Overview of Moody Towers parking lot at midday.
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Register for Parking!
!
Avoid a Citation You must display a current UH Parking Permit to park on campus. Student permits are available online at www.uh.edu/parking. www.uh.edu/parking
Register early to receive your permit before classes start!
To register: 1. Log on to www.uh.edu/parking 2. Enter your PeopleSoft # 3. Your password is your last name (you will be required to select a new password after logging on) 4. Select your parking permit 5. Add your vehicle information 6. Verify your mailing address: your permit will mail to the address you select 7. Follow the link on the receipt to print the temporary permit. Display the temporary permit until you receive your actual permit in the mail
www.uh.edu/parking  parking@uh.edu  713-743-1097 Become our fan on Facebook:
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@uhparking
TRANSITIONS // 2 7 //
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TRANSITIONS // 2 9 //
SERVICES
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AT YOUR SERVICE UC PROVIDES LIST OF RESOURCES TEXT BY TAYLOR MCGILVRAY
STUDENTS OFTEN CAN’T KEEP UP WITH HOW MANY services UH has to offer, and sometimes they aren’t even aware that they pay for them with their tuition. The University Center offers a variety of services under one roof, including the Dean of Students Office, which offers help and direction to students. The UC also has a cafeteria with a variety of food options, along with a campus bookstore. The most overlooked level of the UC is the Arbor level, which has game rooms with pool and ping-pong tables, bowling lanes, video games and pinball. Student clubs and organizations can also rent it out for private parties. Cougar Byte, a computer/software store offers student, faculty and staff discounts, exclusively for the UH community. Cougar Byte is also the authorized computer repair service center for UH. Beyond the Arbor level is the UC Underground, where the Center for Student Involvement is located to offer registered student organizations services, advising and training. UH officials plan to rebuild the UC, and ground breaking for Phase 1 is planned to be spring of 2012. Phase 1 of the new UC is set to have a 400-seat theater, restaurants, the Center for Student Involvement, the Center for Leadership and Fraternity & Sorority Life and other amenities. Students are now paying $85 each semester, included in their tuition, to go towards construction of the new UC. Students also automatically pay $84 a semester for the Campus Recreation and Wellness Center, which grants them access into the facility by showing their Cougar Card. Along with the UC, the UC-Satellite is one of the most recognized and popular facilities at UH. Restaurants and cafes including Starbucks, Taco Bell, Chick-fil-a and Smoothie King are available here. “The Rec is a great place to unwind on campus,” English junior Lindsay Huffman said. “There’s always students there playing games that you can join in on.” The Rec offers basketball courts, a climbing wall, a combat room for martial arts, an outdoor and indoor pool, volleyball and badminton courts, multipurpose activity courts and rooms, an outdoor track, racquetball and squash courts and a sports club field. Students can join intramural teams and even hire a personal trainer. For any students with young children, two Children’s Learning Centers are available on campus. They offer childcare for children too young for elementary school. Children can go to these centers for two, three or five days a week. Not many students know that there are nine libraries on campus, all available for any student. They include the Architecture & Art Library, Digital Library, Government Documents, Hilton // 3 0 // TRANSITIONS
College: Massad Family Library & Archives, Law Library, Music Library, Optometry Library, Special Collections and the M.D. Anderson Library. The M.D. Anderson Library is the largest, and is a Tier One recognized library as well. “The (M.D. Anderson) Library offers classes on how to do research and use their databases,” chemistry junior Chris Punch said. “It was really helpful when I was a freshman.” Another helpful and convenient service available to incoming and current students is the five different bus routes: Campus Loop, Eastwood/energy research park, Robertson line, Oaks Line and Bayou Oaks Line. These routes are available to help students get around campus and are synchronized with Houston Metro, to lower wait times.
PARIS JOMADIAO // Eligible Students join the Honors College for resources.
You could use a little more green in your life. Getting to campus can be expensive. Parking on campus can be tough. Save your time and your money by using an alternative transportation option. METRO offers 8 local routes with direct service to campus, and convenient connecting service for most all other routes-including Park and Ride service from suburban communities. And when you use your student Q-Card, you save 50% on METRO fares. Or form a carpool with friends and share the cost of gas and a permit. Plus, if you sign up for Connect by Hertz carsharing you’ll always have access to a car on campus, even if you don’t bring your own car. Connect rates start at just $8/ hour, and include gas and insurance. Alternative Transportation is an environmentally friendly way to add some green in your life, and your wallet.
For more information on green commuting, visit: www.uh.edu/greencommute
www.uh.edu/parking parking@uh.edu 713-743-1097 Become our fan on Facebook:
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UH Parking and Transportation Services
@uhparking TRANSITIONS // 3 1 //
ALUMNI
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UH GIVES BACK OFFICIALS SET DAY TO PRAISE ALUMNI TEXT BY AYESHA MOHIUDDIN THE OFFICE OF ANNUAL GIVING HAS SET ASIDE A DAY to thank UH Alumni for their philanthropic efforts. Philanthropy Awareness Day is an annual event that recognizes the financial support received from private donors when tuition and state funding run out. “We’ve dedicated a day to raising awareness among students about the important role of individual gifts, like those we receive from UH Alumni,” said Lizeth Castro, young alumni coordinator for The Office of Annual Giving. “We are celebrating by recognizing those things that are the result of contributions, which is why we have dressed the M.D. Anderson Library building with two big, red bows. It’s about thanking all those donors who so generously give each year, even if it’s just a couple of dollars a month.” Students had the opportunity to win prizes and eat free food at the March 29 event that took place in the University Center. “Students get free lunch and win prizes. More importantly, these donors make a difference in every student’s UH experience. I know I feel appreciated by even the smallest thank you and I’m sure all our donors will appreciate a token of thanks from students,” Castro said. “It’s important for students to understand that they can enjoy a lifelong relationship with their University; stay in touch.” Castro said that it’s important for students to attend the event and spread philanthropy awareness — especially during tough economic times. “With the budget cuts that everyone has heard about and the way higher education is faring in the general economy is right now, it is even more important than ever before. So many people think, ‘UH is a state school. I pay taxes. I pay tuition… They don’t need my gift.’ But UH is really a ‘state-assisted’ school, to be honest,” she
WHAT DOES
ALUMNI HELP WITH:
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said. As recent as 1991, 48 percent of the UH budget came through state funding, according to Castro. This year, state funds are around 26 percent of the budget. “We do know that tuition is a lot of money for most students and families — we are not asking students to give anything right now,” she said. “We simply want them to understand that the gifts of alumni and friends help us to keep growing, offer more and better resources to students that tuition and state monies just can’t cover.” The program hopes to help students understand is that the number of alumni who give after graduation can affect the rankings for UH in publications like US News & World Report, a large corporation or a foundation funder who wants to join a winning team. Castro said that “we are enjoying our early (flagship) successes, but philanthropy also affects our (flagship) future.” Many students look forward in participating in the event, and they recognize how important supporting alumni could be for UH. “I want to show my gratitude to the alumni because without them, we wouldn’t be able to cover tuition costs,” kinesiology senior Joel Peter John said. “A lot of people don’t know about how much the alumni contributes, so this day is important to spread awareness.” All donations received by The Office of Annual Giving go back to the University to help provide students with faculty, facilities and programs. It’s hard for students to grasp that donations in any amount make a difference. It is important for them to understand the scope of services that UH provides and that school runs day-in and dayout, year round; not just when they are in class.
Many may not know that UH Alumni is a non-profit organization. So the program is celebrating those who support scholarships in every college, lab equipment, Friends of Women’s Studies or the Center for Mexican American Studies. The program is also celebrating those who give to Cougar Pride, which provides scholarships to student athletes, those who contributed to help renovate and update the M.D. Anderson Library and
the Honors College, the incredible mural and lobby space in the Graduate College of Social Work, they update labs in the College of Pharmacy, the Career Services Center at Bauer College of Business, the tennis courts and weight room, the whole Athletics/Alumni Center on Cullen. The list goes on and on. Every donation the program gets goes back to the university to help provide our students with world-class faculty, facilities and programs.
Chill out!
You’re coming to a big campus with hot weather, but don’t sweat it!
Cougar First Impressions will lend a helping hand.
We’ll help you find your way. Look for our tents around campus Aug. 22-23. Our volunteers will help you find your classes.
We’ll answer your questions. We help you any way we can. We want your first impression to be a good one!
... And we’ll help cool you down. Our volunteers will hand out bottled water and icy treats to help you beat the heat! Now featuring a Water Monster hydration system check it out!
Celebrating 14 years of service! www.uh.edu/sc/cfi The University of Houston is an EEO/AA Institution
TRANSITIONS // 3 3 //
CAMPUS SAFETY
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STAY SAFE UHDPS ENSURES TOP SECURITY TEXT BY LOUIS CASIANO
MAINTAINING CAMPUS SAFETY IS ONE OF THE TOP priorities for the University of Houston officials. The Department of Public Safety is charged with responding to crimes on and off campus, comprised of parking enforcement, the fire marshal, security services and environmental health and safety. “We try to provide good police services,” UHDPS officer Aaron O’ Daly said. “Our main mission is to get out there and build and strengthen partnerships.” In addition to providing a safe learning environment, UHDPS offers self-defense classes, bike registration, sexual assault and personal safety awareness programs and a lost and found system, where claims can be filed online. UHDPS has taken a proactive approach to campus safety by putting uniformed officers on foot and vehicle and bicycle patrols. The University has installed emergency poles around the campus to insure that crimes and emergencies can be reported in a timely manner. The bright red poles are located in all parking lots and designated areas inside the campus. Each pole features a red button that calls directly to the police dispatcher 24/7. Parking enforcement makes routine patrols through each lot to ensure vehicles and students are safe. “I feel safe at night here on campus,” chemistry senior Phillip Chang said. “I always see the police in their cars and on bikes, so I never feel in danger of anything bad happening to me.” Crime rates vary on different campuses, and UH has
consistently maintained a low one — particularly compared to areas away from the campus in Houston. For instance, you’re more likely to become the victim of a robbery at the Galleria than here at UH. According to Houston Police Department crime statistics, in February of this year, there were 16 burglaries and two cases of aggravated assault reported in the Galleria area alone. UHDPS stress personal accountability and taking proactive measures for keeping items secure. The first step is to never let anyone you don’t trust to hold your high value items or leave them unattended for any period of time. UHDPS will engrave your name or number identifier on personal property to make it easier for authorities to identify you as the owner, which may prevent a thief from stealing your belongings. “People just step away momentarily and backpacks, laptops and iPods are left unattended,” Daly said. “It’s almost laying out there for the taking; we see it all the time.” In the last few years, there has been a push to build more oncampus housing. Most of the crimes that occur on campus are usually drug- and alcohol-related in housing. According to the UHDPS annual crime report for 2009, there were 30 arrest for drug violations, 33 for liquor law violations and one for weapons possession. As a student, you should always be aware of your surroundings and report anything that looks suspicious to police. Students should avoid walking around campus at night, but if it’s necessary they’re encouraged to walk in groups or ask for a police escort.
SAFETY
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// Take the most traveled route to and from classes. Walk with others if possible, especially at night, or take advantage of the UHDPS Security Escort Program. // Learn the locations of the blue light phones in the areas you frequently visit. These phones are directly linked to UHDPS. // Don’t leave valuable items in view in the car. Leave them in the trunk or keep them at home. // Know the emergency exits out of your dorm. Be sure your smoke detectors are working. Locate the fire extinguishers. //Photo by NAHEEDA SAYEEDUDDIN
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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
General medical services at affordable costs. Care provided by board certified physicians, nurse practitioners, RN’s, LVN’s and medical assistants.
713-743-5151
NeW SeRViCe
Dermatology Clinic
Staffed by board certified dermatologist to diagnose and treat disorders of the skin, hair and nails. Appointment only.
Women’s Clinic Well woman exams, evaluation for gynecological complaints, contraception, STD’s and treatment Appointment only. 713-743-5156 Dental Clinic Preventive dentistry, restorative, limited major dental procedures. Appointment only. 713-743-5151
713-743-5154
Attendant Care Services
Men’s Clinic Service to diagnose, treat, counsel on issues affecting men’s health. Appointment only.
713-748-8603
713-743-5155 Orthopedic Clinic
Diagnose and treat musculoskeletal conditions including sports injuries and disease of the bone and muscle Appointment only.
713-743-5142 Psychiatric Clinic
Board certified psychiatrists to provide evaluations, treatment plans and ongoing medication management. Appointment only.
Care and lifestyle assistance program for needs of physically challenged students living on campus
Pharmacy
Prescriptions and over the counter items at very low cost.
713-743-5125 UH Student Health Insurance Deadline to add
or drop insurance is the Official Reporting Day of each fall and spring semester.
713-743-5137
713-743-5149
For hours and more information, http://www.uh.edu/admin/hc Entrance #6 on Wheeler • Bldg #525 on Campus Map
“Your Official Campus Bookstore” Located in the UC
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TRANSITIONS // 3 5 //
STUDENT PROFILE
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Q&A COUGAR SHARES HIS FRESHMAN EXPERIENCE TEXT BY CANDACE ALLEN SOPHOMORE MARKLEY ROGERS ADMITS THAT FIGHTING the lazy days during a strenuous semester, figuring out exactly when restaurants are open on campus, getting into the right classes or battling the dreaded financial aid services as a freshman were some of the toughest tasks he’s had to face.
Rogers is a political science major who currently serves as the associate director of external affairs on the Student Government Association. Markley spoke with Transitions writer Candace Michelle Allen about how he survived his freshman year by maintaining patience and how he has developed a strong sense of Cougar pride.
// WHAT ARE SOME THINGS YOU WISH YOU WOULD’VE KNOWN COMING INTO COLLEGE? “I wish someone would have told me that all the restaurants are closed on Saturdays, so I could’ve stocked up (on food). There were a few months where it was Saturday and I was like, “Ugh, it’s Saturday! I don’t want to go to the OB, I’m hungry!”
// WHERE ARE YOU FROM? “I’m from Nederland; it’s about an hour and a half away.”
// WHAT STRUGGLES HAVE YOU OVERCOME? “A general apathy about college; I did really well my first semester and then I kind of slacked off entirely my second semester. I didn’t want to do anything and my grades reflected it. I got it going now.” // WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR UPCOMING FRESHMAN AND TRANSFER STUDENTS? “I guess make sure you’re doing what you really want to do. I know a lot of people who have gotten two years into their degree plan and then they’re like, ‘I really hate what I’m doing.’ My roommate being one of them; so he pretty much has to start from scratch and he’s not going to graduate in 4 years. “So, just be sure you know what you want before you start doing it.” // ARE YOUR PARENTS REALLY INVOLVED IN YOUR COLLEGE CAREER; DO THEY VISIT YOU A LOT? OR DO YOU EVEN WANT THEM TO BE INVOLVED? “I do appreciate the level that they are involved, but it’s primarily financial. I go home and visit my mother, I guess, twice a month. I drive home every other weekend.”
// HOW IS LIVING ON CAMPUS? “It’s absolutely wonderful. I started off living in Taub right here, but then Honors housing moved over to Cougar Village, and I really like it over there. It’s swanky.” // WHAT SERVICES HAVE YOU USED ON CAMPUS? “Dining, the REC center and the little guys that go around in go-carts… I get them to drive me to class sometimes, just when I’m running late.” // HAVE YOU HAD ANY COMPLICATIONS WITH ANY OF THE SERVICES HERE? “Yes. I guess it was my second semester here, and I was trying to sign up for classes. We get priority registration with Honors College and there was a very competitive class I was trying to get into. I didn’t get into it because there was a complication with financial services. They had misplaced one of my payments. I had to pay an extra $980, and didn’t get any of the classes I wanted.” // WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT UH? “The pride, man. You’re walking around on Fridays, and it’s like a sea of red. I love it.”
//Photo by GLORIA CERVANTES
// 3 6 // TRANSITIONS
Where Tradition
Begins
TRANSITIONS // 3 7 //
EDUCATION
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STUDY ABROAD SUMMER TRAVEL USED FOR CREDIT TEXT BY ELIZE NAJM THINKING ABOUT LEARNING A NEW LANGUAGE OR about different cultures? Why not learn in Spain, France, or any of the other countries that UH offers study abroad programs with? “I only have one month left here and I don’t want to leave,” said Roxana Naderi, an accounting junior who has been studying abroad in Barcelona for three months. “I can say without a doubt that I have had the time of my life.” The UH study abroad office partners with universities and international programs in more than 60 countries throughout Africa, Asia, Europe, Central and Latin America and the Middle East. Whether you want to study abroad for a year, semester or a summer, there is a program for you. “UH’s study abroad programs are unique because they cater to all the needs of the students. There are the short-term and longterm programs. Students can accelerate their graduation in the Special programs held during the holidays. UH is open to facilitating the student to study abroad,” said Parul Fernandes, Director of the Office of International Studies and Programs. Naderi said she recommends study abroad if a student is interested in traveling and experiencing other cultures. “It is an amazing experience and there is really no other time in our lives where we can go travel through Europe without any responsibilities,” she said. “Of course we have classes here, but the teachers know that we are here to have fun and see the world and get a cultural experience as well.” In 2010, 536 UH students participated in the study abroad program. “China, Mexico and Germany are the most popular destinations,” Fernandes said. “Study abroad programs in China are geared towards learning the language and for business majors. Mexico is favored because it is the nearest study abroad destination to the USA for the learning of Spanish. Europe has the Czech Republic, Spain, Italy and Germany as favored destinations. Last year, India was a popular destination for students from the Bauer School of Business for a faculty-led program.” A few things to keep in mind when considering studying abroad are the pre-requisites, the deadlines, and the cost. Students must have a minimum of a 2.5 GPA and at least 12 credit hours to qualify. Any student who fits these requirements is eligible to study abroad. Though having some familiarity with the language and culture of the country you are traveling to could prove beneficial, there are programs in many countries that offer classes in English. “It is not necessary for a student to have a basic grasp of the // 3 8 // TRANSITIONS
language,” Fernandes said. “In fact, students who study abroad with no basic knowledge find themselves having a life-changing experience. The cultural immersion that they experience by staying with host families coupled with the necessity of communication in the local language, provide them with cross cultural communication skills and shape their future with a broader mindset. They come back as survivors with maturity and open-mindedness and with excellent interpersonal skills.” The deadline for applications, including all required paperwork, is June 24 for the 2011 Fall semester and November 12 for the Spring 2012 semester. “The advisors at UH were very nice and helpful and they were patient with me while I was trying to get all of my paperwork turned in,” Naderi said. If you know what country you would like to study in, the research phase will be dramatically shorter. If you are unsure but want help deciding, you should speak with your advisor and then visit the Study Abroad Office located in room 501 of the E. Cullen building. Researching the country and program that will be the best fit for you is one of the most important parts of the application process and should not be rushed. Allotting a few months for this step is recommended.
Photos provided by ROXANA NADERI // Shown (left) studying abroad in Spain.
“The student should ideally start the process between six months to a year. This gives the student enough time to complete their financial planning, the academic process with the college they are studying in, and all study abroad requirements,” Fernandes said. If you’re interested in studying abroad but wondering how you will be able to afford it, there are numerous scholarships offered each year through each program. The Office of International Studies Program offers two scholarships twice a year: the International Education Fund Scholarship (IEFS) and the Houston Junior Chambers Commerce (HJCC). Students can apply for these scholarships in addition to the scholarships offered through each program. Financial aid is also available for the Study Abroad Program. The cost for each program varies depending upon the length of time you will be studying, the country you will be in, the housing and living expenses and the price of classes at your destination university. The cost can range anywhere from $2,000 for the 3 week program in Mexico (including airfare, food, housing, and excursions) to $26,000 for year-long programs. The initial application fee for the study abroad program is $100. “In my opinion every student should study abroad because experiencing another culture, living, eating, playing soccer or dancing allows the mind to know the values we all are brought up with,” Fernandes said. “It is the difference that builds our personality. Unless we open the window to the world and allow the sunshine in we will never learn to value and respect another human being from a different part of the world. Study abroad assists every student to have the life changing experience,
University Career Services Start thinking About your Career!
meet the challenges of survival in a different culture and learn through a critical thinking process how to become intellectuals.” Visit www.UH.edu/StudyAbroad to see a list of all the available programs and start planning.
Photo provided by ROXANA NADERI //
Department of Public Safety Police 713-743-3333
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Parking Enforcement 713-743-5849
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www.uh.edu/police TRANSITIONS // 3 9 //
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HOW TO: SUCCEED TEXT BY KAYLA CORMIER ARE YOU FEELING A LITTLE OVERWHELMED ABOUT starting your UH experience? Are you nervous about passing exams or approaching your professors for the first time? Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered. We have put together a brief but clear and precise list on what we thought is the key of how to succeed as a freshman. // HOW TO APPROACH YOUR PROFESSOR: During the first week of class, approach your professor after lecture and simply introduce yourself. Mention why you signed up for the class or tell him/her something that will make them remember you — especially in a larger class. Make sure you are familiar with your professor’s office hours, and don’t be afraid to visit them if you have any questions. Remember to stay professional when you’re speaking with your professor. Also remember that first impressions are lasting impressions. // HOW TO WRITE AN EMAIL: Professors receive an abundant amount of emails, so writing concisely and providing subject lines is essential. Write the key point of your email in the subject line. Choose a suitable greeting. Generally speaking you should start with, “Professor (last name here).” You should briefly and politely state the reason why you are emailing him/her, by being short and getting straight to the point without using slang or abbreviations. Sign your email with your full name, course number and class time. // HOW TO STAY ON TRACK: Staying focused can be difficult at times, especially towards the end of the semester. Students should always try their best to stay on track and save some energy for when finals approach. Invest in a planner to write your important test and due dates. Set up appointments with your advisor frequently, not only when you have an issue, to guarantee you are on the right path. Most importantly, take good notes and keep it organized — which requires you to attend class and avoid skipping it. Don’t rely on friends; college is about forming independence. // HOW TO AVOID GAINING THE FRESHMAN 15: The freshman 15 is when new students gain weight once they start college. It may seem impossible for some college students to maintain a healthy diet when they’re constantly on the move. UH tries to make it easier for students by providing state-of-the-art recreational facilities, which include everything from basketball courts to swimming pools to rock climbing walls at the Campus Recreation and Wellness Center. Since your admission to the gym is already included in your tuition, it shouldn’t be that difficult. Instead of // 4 0 // TRANSITIONS
a pizza, grab a Subway sandwich or a refreshing smoothie from Smoothie King at the UC-Satellite or the University Center cafeteria. // HOW TO JOIN THE GREEK LIFE: Going Greek provides learning and life experiences through friendship, community service, leadership, scholarship and social activities. Greek life is undoubtedly one of the largest organizations on any campus. Recruitment, or rush week, takes place the first few weeks of school. So, if you’re interested, this would be the best time to decide which organization suits you best. For more information, visit the UH Center for Leadership and Fraternity & Sorority life website at http://www.uh.edu/clfsl/index.html. // HOW TO TAKE AN ONLINE CLASS: Many students take advantage of the freedom they get when taking an online class. For the most part, they demand the same amount of effort and interaction as in-class college course. It is necessary and expected to log onto Blackboard and check emails several times a week. Select designated time slots to work on your course. Both managing time wisely and avoiding procrastination will lead to online success. Also, make sure you communicate with your professor or teaching assistant; any student will agree that communication with their teacher leads to a higher success rate in the course. // HOW TO PREPARE YOURSELF FOR THE REAL WORLD: When graduation is peeking around the corner, will you be ready for a job? Future employers will be looking for impressive resumes or portfolios. Making sure you have enough activities for these two things requires you to participate in extracurricular activities and organizations on campus. Finding an internship as early in your college career as possible is the best option; you don’t want to leave completing an internships for your last stressful senior year. Internships provide excellent experience for your desired field, and are sure to give you a competitive advantage. // HOW TO STUDY AND SUCCESSFULLY PASS AN EXAM: Keep in mind that if you have been attending class regularly and completing your assignments, you actually have a lot of knowledge already. So don’t stress and find a study method that best works for you. Find somewhere that is quiet and free of distraction to study. Use all of your resources such as lecture notes, textbooks and even classmates. Ask for your teacher’s help whenever you may need it- that’s what teachers are there for. Avoid delaying studying until the last minute. Get a good night’s sleep before your exam and make sure you eat a good breakfast on the day of your exam for energy.
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TRANSITIONS // 4 1 //
FINANCES
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BUDGET CUTS STUDENTS SEARCH FOR ALTERNATIVES TEXT BY ANNA GALLEGOS
IN THE UPCOMING SEMESTER, UH STUDENTS WILL LIKELY BE affected by the statewide budget cuts, especially since 80 percent of the student body receives financial aid. According to the Student Government Association, UH is losing more government aid than UT-Austin, Texas A&M and Texas Tech University. UH will receive 20 percent less in aid than the 2010-2011 fiscal year. “We are already facing fiscal issues due to the current state of the economy, and it’s not acceptable for the state to reduce our source of funding,” said former SGA President Prince Wilson in a campus-wide email addressing the issue. While some students are taking out loans, alternative solutions such as scholarships, grants and award programs are available. “(Scholarships) took a bit of the load out of my back,” said Edgar Veliz, communications junior. “Now I don’t have to work full time.” The UH website offers a variety of scholarships, including
WHAT YOU
CAN DO TO
SAVE MONEY: 1
Apply for financial aid
Get a student loan
3
Borrow books and sell your used books
Take the Graduation Pledge
// 4 2 // TRANSITIONS
2 4
newer opportunities such as the Flagship Scholarship that was developed by UH President Renu Khator. The majority of UH colleges or academic programs also offer scholarships or grants depending on the student’s major and sometimes minor. The UH Alumni Association also offers awards for incoming students and current undergraduates. According to the UH website, they gave out $180,000 in scholarships last year based on specific categories such as the marching band, minority students or those in various academic programs. Academic advisors can also help direct students towards scholarships provided by professional organizations in Houston, outside of campus. A rise in tuition has yet to be decided on, but students are encouraged to search and apply for scholarships as soon as possible.
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Directions: Exit Holcombe Boulevard off Hwy. 288, toward US 90/Old Spanish Trail. Turn west on OST (away from medical center), turn left onto Tierwester. Turn left onto Dixie Drive. Leasing Center is on your left. TRANSITIONS // 4 3 //
BEFORE YOU LEAVE
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// Photo by ASHLEY EVANS
UH BUCKET LIST TEXT BY CARLIN AVERY OTTO
AS A TRANSFER STUDENT, MY TRANSITION FROM A junior college to a major university was rocky at first. All sorts of questions came to mind when I received my UH acceptance letter: What is there to do on campus besides study? How do I find my way around the dauntingly large campus? What can I do between classes? How will I make the most of my time at UH? Through the help of other students and the University, however, I quickly adapted to my new life as a Cougar. Here are a few things that made for an easy transition and some memorable years at the University that everyone should scratch off their list.
// CLIMB THE ROCK WALL AT THE REC: The Campus Recreation and Wellness center has 264 thousand square-feet of potential energy and a 53-foot rock wall. If heights aren’t your thing, then not to worry; intramural sports, fitness classes and adventure trips are a few other things the REC has to offer. // TAKE IN THE ARTS: UH has many outlets for the arts — from bands playing at the UC-Satellite, performances by the theater department and concerts from the Moores School of Music to the Blaffer Art Gallery. // JOIN A STUDENT ORGANIZATION/GET INVOLVED: With over 400 registered student organizations, UH gives students opportunities to follow their passions. If there isn’t an organization that suits you, create one. Student organizations host events, and it is a great way to meet fellow Cougars who share your interests. // TOUR CAMPUS: It is important to know your way around the University’s 667 acres. With its huge trees, large fountains and over 260 Art Among Us pieces, the UH campus is an oasis in the middle of the fourth largest city in America. Before you graduate you should try visiting as many buildings on campus as possible.
// 4 4 // TRANSITIONS
// ATTEND A FOOTBALL GAME: Supporting the Cougar football team by attending a football game is a great way to show pride for your University. All athletic events are free for students. So come, be loud, wear red and cheer for your team. // JOIN THE ALUMNI ASSOCIATION: When graduation approaches, seniors have the option to join the Alumni Association, and for a small membership fee you can stay connected to your beloved University. The Alumni Association gives back by supporting students and investing in student programs and scholarships. Strong Alumni support also contributes to UH’s quest for flagship status, as alumni support is factored into how a university is ranked. Join the Alumni Association and become a Cougar for life. // ATTEND FRONTIER FIESTA: One of the University’s oldest traditions showcases student organizations. The “Fiesta” offers free concerts, Battle of the Bands, sorority and fraternity variety shows, a carnival and a cook-off. This free event takes place every spring. // GO BOWLING: UH has many amenities that most universities offer, but how many people can say, “I go bowling during my breaks between classes?” Students can find the bowling alley in the UC Underground. // UTILIZE THE WELCOME CENTER: The Welcome Center houses the Visitor Center and provides excellent resources for new students, like campus tours and admission details. // SPEND TIME IN THE LIBRARY: Take advantage of the free services and amenities that our Tier One library has to offer. After all, you pay for it automatically as part of your service fees in your tuition.
UH Health Center
Now offering dental services
Appointments now being accepted for currently enrolled students! On-site services: Preventative Dentistry General Restorative Limited Major Dental Procedures Fees: $20 visit co-pay + Reasonable and customary cost of services *Most Dental Insurance Plans Accepted including UH Student Health Insurance OPTIONAL Dental Insurance Plan and many others
MAKE AN APPOINTMENT
CALL 713-743-5151 QUESTIONS?
CALL 713-22-SMILE (713-227-6453)
MORE INFORMATION www.uh.edu/admin/hc/dental.htm
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TRANSITIONS // 4 5 //
HOUSTON ART
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JORGE PORRAS // Select Houston museums offer discounts to all college students.
CITY OF ART STUDENTS ABSORB LOCAL CULTURE TEXT BY MISTI MYNHIER
WHETHER YOU’RE A VISITOR, A NEWCOMER, A LOCAL suburbanite or a native urbanite, the Houston-area art scene is one of a kind—with plenty of options to choose from. From performance arts to local artists and festivals, Houston has it all, and the stage is grand. “Taking my kids to visit the Menil Collection is amazing,” said Sara Leighton, Houstonian and mother of five-year-old triplets. “To hear their interpretation of the art compared to mine is priceless. They help me look at everything just a little differently and keep my perspective fresh.” Former UH communications student Devin Medina is also a fan. “I love the Menil Collection,” he said. “It’s really modern, (has) open space and it was exciting to see the Warhol pieces they have on display.” There will never be a dull day with the wide variety of museums and galleries in Houston. Even natives of this vast city can’t find enough time to visit all their beloved favorites. “There are so many choices and just not enough time,” said Marina Hartmann-Castillo, a native Houstonian and UH art history and dance graduate. “Even if I were a millionaire with time on my side, I still don’t think I would be able to see all the arts Houston has to offer.”
From traditional and inspiring to fun and exciting, there are over 40 museums to choose from. From The Museum of Fine Arts, the Children’s Museum, The Menil Collection, Diverse Works Art Space, Inc., Contemporary Arts Museum, the Museum of Natural Science, and even Art Car parades — Houston’s art scene encapsulates the diverse energy this city has to offer. “After moving to Houston two years ago from the UK and living in Canada, I never expected there to be so much going on (here),” said Deborah Tait, a business professional with Houston Entrepreneur’s Organization. “Never have I experienced anything like the Art Car parade… That was a truly unique and amazing experience.” Beyond grand museums and art car parades, Houston has the finest and largest performance theatre district outside of New York’s Broadway. “Houston’s Theater District is surprisingly diverse, (including) Broadway musicals, ballet, symphony and much more,” Tait said. Our art scene is as diverse as our culture; there is truly something for everyone to enjoy. The city will inspire you and serve as your muse with all its culture and worldliness. Get out and enjoy this art-filled city in all its vibrant glory.
RENOVATIONS
//Photo courtesy of JEFF BOWEN
// 4 6 // TRANSITIONS
// Blaffer Art Museum at the University of Houston has been selected for a major renovation by the WORK Architecture Company (WORKac). // Blaffer is WORKac’s first commission in Texas and will be developed in partnership with Gensler. // The renovation is scheduled to take place between July and December 2011. // The museum will be closed during the construction period and will reopen its doors in January 2012.
Ensuring that qualified students who have disabilities (i.e. Psychological or learning; health, hearing, or visual impairments) have an equal opportunity to learn and succeed at the
University of Houston • Academic Accomodations • Assistive/Adaptive Technology • Testing Rooms • Disability-Related Counseling • Advocacy • Resources
Justin Dart, JR Center for Students with DisAbilities (CSD)
www.uh.edu/csd Tel: 713-743-5400 TTY: 713-749-1527
TRANSITIONS // 4 7 //
LEISURE
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GUIDE TO CITY EXPERIENCE HOUSTON’S OFF CAMPUS SCENE TEXT BY AMANDA TRELLA DEEP IN THE HEART OF TEXAS IS A CITY KNOWN
with friends to Discovery Green and enjoying the many amenities it
FOR serving up hefty portions of art, culture and nightlife — not to
has, especially since most of the events there are free, from yoga to
mention food. From the largest oddities to the most exquisite attrac-
various concerts, and students love free stuff.”
tions, Houston has set a standard for providing its residents with a plethora of things to do, no matter the time of day.
The giant president heads that can be seen near Interstate 10 and 45 are not the only oddities Houston has to offer. Others
For UH students this translates into the possibility of a fun and
include the Art Car Museum, the National Funeral Museum, the
exciting break from classes and exams. For parents, it translates into
Beer Can House and the Orange Show, a 3,000 square foot monu-
another way their child can broaden their horizons, both culturally
ment to oranges.
and intellectually.
“I love how different Houston is from many other cities; some-
With a population of approximately 2.25 million people,
times you find yourself driving down the highway and all of a sud-
speaking over 90 languages, Houston has become a melting pot of
den you see a sculpture of giant president heads staring back at you
ideas and knowledge that can be seen throughout the city.
— it’s cool, it’s different,” management information systems junior
“When school becomes stressful and I feel like I need to get
Krista Hewitt said.
away from campus, I go to the Museum District, particularly
While oddities are nice, so is the drive from Houston to the
because different museums are free on different days,” computer
Gulf of Mexico. With access to a car, students can drive down to
information systems sophomore Patrick Carey said. “It’s a great way
beach, visit Schlitterbahn, Galveston Island’s water park, or stop at
to clear your mind and take in the beauty of the amount of art
Space Center Houston, where visitors can take a look into previous
Houston possesses, and not spend a dime doing it.”
NASA missions, learn about what it takes to be an astronaut and
The Museum District is a group of 18 different museums, gal-
view rockets from the past up close.
leries and cultural centers, including places such as the Houston
Although a student’s primary focus in college is to learn and
Museum of Natural Science, Holocaust Museum Houston and the
develop further, Houston’s nightlife and dining experiences are not
Houston Zoo.
something to miss.
Spanning within a 1.5 mile radius of Hermann Park, all of the places in the Museum District are free at one point or another during the week, while 11 of which are free all the time, and can be easily accessed using the METRORail if students don’t have access to a car. The Museum District includes nine performing arts organizations compose the Theater District in downtown Houston that brings opera, ballet, music and theater to life. Many of the places have special rates for students, such as the Alley Theatre and the Houston Ballet. “I started going to the Alley Theatre because it was a requirement for one of my classes freshman year,” said education junior Brittney Shaw. “Even though I thought it was such a hassle at first, I ended up really liking it and the performances that were put on. Now, I go all the time.” Downtown’s Discovery Green, a 12-acre park open to the public, hosts more than 400 events per year. “Even though I’m not 21, Houston still has so many things to offer outside of the bars and nightlife that make the city so popular,” pre-dental freshman Blake Poindexter said. “I love going downtown // 4 8 // TRANSITIONS
TAP NGUYEN// View of the Houston skyline fom Buffalo Bayou.
Although many places require patrons to be 21 years or older, especially the bars and clubs on Washington Ave or Rice Village, there are several clubs for customers 18 years and older, such as Rich’s on San Jacinto. Features include a wide range of music. Places such as Wild West on Richmond will get every country fan dancing. “I have to admit, when I think of Houston, I don’t think of anything but food,” education senior Shanna Bombaywala said. “From Thai to Brazilian to Pakistani to downright American, it’s all at your fingertips.” Even though Houston is known for the large amount of restaurants and dining diversity it has, for students, the closer to campus the food is, the better. Dot Coffee Shop, a 24-hour diner, is close to campus and affordable. Other student favorites include Frenchy’s Chicken, which is down the street from campus, and is said to be the “best chicken ever” by some UH students. Many students like to go downtown to the Aquarium, which is both a restaurant and an aquarium. You can stop by one of the largest malls in America, the Galleria, and eat at one of its many restaurants after spending hours shopping. “Houston has everything to offer and so much more. You just need to look it up or go out there,” Bombaywala said. “For me, it’s as if there is a surprise around every corner, whether it’s a delicious new restaurant or the chance to see something you’ve never seen before, all you need to do is TAP NGUYEN// “Miss Tree” by artist Doug Hollis sits in Houston’s Discovery Green.
take a chance and experience it.”
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Get some
DAILY 7, 2010 — Tuesday, September AdVErTISIng plAcEMEnT 7, 2010 — Tuesday, September AdVErTISIng plAcEMEnT
has an CougararPride Pride has an
opinion opinion
sports sports
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the offic f the unive e w s pa p e r o l student n the officia
7, 2010 y September Tuesda September 7, 2010
ON CAMPUS
to series lands at UH On-going ON CAMPUS issues at UH to local sustainability discuss On-going series lands issues discuss local sustainability
RECITAl
set from School of Music Faculty RECITAl for community of Music set to perform Faculty from School to perform for community
In prInt
Pick up a copy at one of our 60+ campus racks
cOUgar FOOtball cOUgar FOOtball
newsline newsline
cats Bobcats Cou maul lBob garsmau Cougars greeted Keenum and team fans break asteam greeted seas of red by Keenum and record break attendance by seas of red as fans attendance record
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EDUCATION
CLASSROOM 101 STAY FOCUSED DURING LECTURE TEXT BY MIGUEL CORTINA Students will more than likely spend most of their campus time
peer on the first day of class. The first weeks of school are usually
in the classroom. During the first two years, you are bound to be
when people are open to exchanging contact information to share
in classes with more than 400 other students — usually held in the
notes or study guides with a classmate.
auditoriums where professors use microphones during his or her
Overall you’re in college now, and no one is making you go to class
lecture. Sound overwhelming? Well, we can guide you through the
or taking your attendance. Therefore, the best advice a student can take
process from where to sit to staying on track.
is to stay focused in class and enjoy your educational experience.
If you get distracted easily — which could often happen in larger classes — the best place to sit is in the front. This may also make your professor more familiar with your face, which is beneficial. Some students aren’t comfortable sitting too close to the front, and if that’s the case for you then opt for the middle, but on the sides where you can see better. You can also benefit from the outlets, if you sit on the side, and plan to use a laptop for notes. Political science student Albert Banh said he suggests leaving one seat empty between you and a peer to make room for comfortably taking notes, and maybe even having more privacy while taking an exam. Whether you’re in a larger class or a small group of 30 students, avoid sitting in the back. If you don’t have friends in your class, introduce yourself to a
//Photo by ASHLEY EVANS
TRANSITIONS // 5 1 //
EDITOR’S NOTE
//////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////
MY TRANSITION UH TRANSFORMATION BUILDS UNITY TEXT BY HIBA ADI
WHILE DOING RESEARCH FOR OUR
cover story on “class branding” and how far the University of Houston has come to almost completely transforming into a flagship University; I came to realize how large it has impacted me personally. I’m one of the upperclassmen who didn’t have a class to represent, since the idea of class branding was introduced only two years ago. I have taken part in various student organizations, have maintained a high GPA as a full-time working student and I’m graduating within four years. Therefore, I asked myself, “why don’t I have a class?” I deserve to be a part of a unified historic UH concept. Then, I started thinking about how much UH has changed in my last four years of college. When I entered as a freshman, there was a sense of Cougar pride, but UH was still considered
the commuter school that housed a majority of Houston locals. The pride wasn’t nearly as strong as it is now. As the years went by, I watched my University become more distinguished and familiar. From our football team making nationwide headlines to our research facilities being recognized as Tier One quality — I got to witness one of UH’s largest and most important transitions. Upperclassmen may not have a strong brand for now, but it’s safe to say that generations of hard work have made it possible to reach today’s success. Instead of considering who’s left out, consider the alumni as the legends of a new era. To all entering freshmen, I hope our legacy will inspire you to continue what we started — to make UH one of the leading universities in the nation. Absorb as much as you can on campus and take advantage of all it has to offer. We have put together what we think are the most essential factors of how to be a flourishing Cougar in this magazine; use it as a guide to help reach our goals. After all, it will only make your degree more valuable.
TRANSITIONS
//////////////// STAFF: EDITOR IN CHIEF // Hiba Adi
STAFF WRITERS //
MANAGING EDITOR // Sarah Raslan
Moniqua Sexton Candace Allen Julian Jimenez Jasmine Umenyi Elize Najm Amanda Trella Taylor McGilvray Daniel Renfrow Anna Gallegos
PHOTO EDITOR // Ashley Evans GRAPHICS EDITOR // Jorge Robles PHOTOGRAPHERS // Tap Nguyen Jasmine Umenyi Jorge Porras Paris Jomadiao
Naheeda Sayeeduddin Autumn Washington Brianna Leigh Morrison Gloria Cervantes
ABOUT THE MAGAZINE//
Bethel Glumac, Communications, Junior Bryan Haver, Business, Sophomore Jessica Jaimez, Biology, Junior
Transitions is 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.
AD REPS //
CONTACT US //
COVER DESIGN // Jorge Robles COVER MODELS //
Jason Esparza Amanda Starghill Victoria Gbenoba
// 5 2 // TRANSITIONS
Louis Casiano Carlin Avery Otto Ayesha Mohiuddin John Brannen Misti Mynhier Miguel Cortina Kayla Cormier Candace Allen
Breanna Rogers Shantanu Baluvanar.
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TRANSITIONS // 5 3 //
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// 5 4 // TRANSITIONS
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ONLINE fACULTY/ COURSE EVALUATION
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TRANSITIONS // 5 5 //
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