Transitions 2012 by UH Center for Student Media

BECOMING A COOG COME ON IN TO THE HOUSE

FOLLOW THIS UH TAKES TO THE INTERNET

ON THE COUGAR TIP ADVICE FOR COOGS FROM COOGS

University Eye Institute

Sunglasses Which ones are Right for me?

Contact Lenses Which type is Best for My specific Needs?

For answers to all your eye care questions, schedule a comprehensive eye examination by calling 713.743.2020 or visit www.uei.uh.edu Open to the public, Monday - Friday 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. 4901 Calhoun (on the corner of Calhoun & Wheeler) free patient parking

TRANSITIONS

CONTENTS 14 Traditions 16 Student Life 18 Staying on Top 20 Health 28 Parking 31 Alma Mater 32 Books 36 Construction 38 City Guide 40 Notable Alumn 41 Editors Note 42 Dining

BECOMING A COOG Whose house? Coogs house. Yes, you are here to learn, but you are also here to become a member of the Coog Nation. Read what it takes to do so.

SOCIAL MEDIA Everyone and their mom are online, so it only makes sense for your university to follow â&#x20AC;&#x201D; read how.

12 10

UH ARTS 30

From creative writing to dance and even opera, UH has some of the top creative departments around. Get the big picture on the creative elements on campus.

TECH & GADGETS 26

Technology has evolved, it seems, with students in mind. Read about the latest devices that can help you succeed during your time on the UH campus.

ATHLETICS

TIPS

This season marks the end of an era with regards to UH Athletics: the last regular season in Conference USA and the final months of Robertson Stadium.

Get some advice from students who strived to be more than just a student and succeeded.

MAKE THE RIGHT MOVES IN THE

ACADEMIC

CHESS GAME

Minor in Mexican American Studies. Leadership for the 21st Century

The Center For Mexican American Studies Welcomes All Incoming & Transfer Students to the University of Houston. 6

TRANSITIONS

www.class.uh.edu/cmas lcano@uh.edu Office: 713-743-3136 Room-323 AAH

What should I major in? Find your niche @ CLASS.

Art Art Art History Graphic Communications Painting Photography/Digital Media Sculpture Communication Advertising Corporate Communication Health Communication Public Health Promotion Health Care Delivery Interpersonal Communication Journalism Broadcast Print Media Media Production Media Studies Public Relations

Communication Sciences & Disorders Communication Sciences & Disorders American Sign Language Interpreting Comparative Cultural Studies Anthropology Liberal Studies Economics English Creative Writing Linguistics Literary Studies Health and Human Performance Kinesiology -Exercise Science -Sports Administration -FItness and Sports Human Nutrition and Foods

Hispanic Studies Spanish History Liberal Studies Modern & Classical Languages Chinese Studies French German Italian Studies Music Theory Composition Marketing Religion Music Education Applied Music Brass Keyboard Percussion Strings

Woodwinds Voice Philosophy Political Science Psychology Sociology Theatre & Dance Playwritting and Dramaturgy Acting Design and Technology Stage Management Theater Education Dance

AJO

* Teacher Certification Available. Please Consult the Department Advisor for More Information.

African American Studies Air Force Leadership 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 Communication Sciences & Disorders Comparative Cultural Studies Anthropology India Studies Religious Studies

Economics English Creative Writing Linguistics Literary Studies Health and Human Performance Kinesiology Human Nutrition and Foods Hispanic Studies Spanish Spanish for Business Professionals History Latin American Studies American Cultures History Honors College Creative Work Medicine and Society Phronesis, Politics, and Ethics Interdisciplinary Arts Mexican American Studies Military Science (Army ROTC)

Modern & Classical Languages Chinese Studies Classical Studies French French for Business-Related Professions German Studies Greek (ancient and modern) Italian Studies Latin World Cultures and Literatures Music Music Literature/History Music Theory Naval Science (Navy ROTC) Philosophy Political Science Values, Law and Policy Quantitative Social Science National Security Studies Psychology Religious Studies Sociology

Theatre & Dance Acting Production (design & technology) Playwriting Dance Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Studies Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Transgender Studies Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Studies

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

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Cedric Bandoh is the Student Body President of the University of Houston. He recently served as Chief of Staff for SGA and previously as an At-Large senator. He is a Business major with Pre-Law studies. In addition to serving on numerous university-wide committees, Cedric was the Vice President for the first ever “Mr. UH” competition. “I am honored and humbled to serve our diverse campus community; and am forever proud to be a Cougar! It is my goal to ensure that you receive a Tier One experience in all aspects of your time at the University of Houston.” Cedric is the youngest person to be elected SGA President at UH.

Hello Cougars! College will be some of the best years of your lives and I am glad you chose the Tier One University of Houston as your home. I hope you graduate with many fond memories of your time here. It is an exciting time to be at the University of Houston and Cougar Pride has never been stronger. The campus is undergoing a complete Tier One transformation with new dining halls, residence halls, and academic buildings on the horizon. I am especially excited for the new University Center, which will serve as our campus living room and the central hub for student life; and our new stadium and arena which will amplify the experience of sporting and campus events. In addition to excelling in your classes, I strongly encourage you to get involved on campus. Whether it be in a fraternity or sorority, intramural sports, or one of our 500+ student organizations, involvement in campus life will be key to your success not only here at UH but in the workforce. Make the most of your experience by attending sporting events, plays, concerts; conduct research and give back to the community. Most importantly, network. UH is one of the nation’s most-ethnically diverse universities and building a strong personal and professional network will make you stand out from the crowd. I am confident that you will enjoy your time at UH and will graduate ready to take on the challenges and opportunities of our global and competitive world. Please always remember that the Student Government Association (SGA) is here to serve YOU! We represent your voice and advocate on your behalf to campus administrators and local, state, and national officials. If you ever need anything, please do not hesitate to contact me. I look forward to your continued success! Thanks and Go Coogs! With Cougar Pride,

Cedric K. Bandoh Student Body President University of Houston

Follow me on Twitter @CedricBandoh

Turner Harris is the Student Body Vice President of the University of Houston. He is a junior studying Supply Chain & Logistics Technology with a minor in International Business. He previously served as the SGA Director of Finance and two terms at the Philanthropy Officer of the UH Collegiate Entrepreneurs Organization. Turner is the Assistant Varsity Coach for Men’s Lacrosse at Houston Christian High School and was a state champion lacrosse player while at Cy-Fair High School. Turner brings a wide array of entrepreneurial and innovative experience that he plans to use to improve the UH community

Student Government Association | www.uh.edu/sga Visit us: 264 University Center Contact us: 832-842-6225 or sga@uh.edu 8

TRANSITIONS

Dell recommends Windows® 7.

University of Houston - Students!

Buy a Dell—get a $200 eGift Card Complement your student purchase with $200 to use towards an Xbox® 360 or other campus essentials from Dell.

NEW Dell™ XPS™ 13 Ultrabook™ Featuring Genuine Windows® 7 Home Premium

Dell.com/Houston or 800-695-8133 Member ID: US28750643

* Promotional Gift Card Offer: Offer contingent upon purchase of eligible product; Promotional card not valid if eligible product is returned for a refund. If eligible product is returned for a refund after the card has been redeemed, the value of the redeemed card will be deducted from the refund amount. Promotional Gift Card ships separately from purchase and typically arrives in 10-14 days via email and carries a 90 day expiration (except where prohibited by law). Terms and conditions apply. www.dell.com/giftcard/promoterms. Limited time student only offer. TRANSITIONS 9

UNIVERSITY UPDATED BY JED OCOT

UH online with aspects of campus life

elationship Status. Interested In. This is what drives life at college,” Jesse Eisenberg said as Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg in the movie, “The Social Network.”

PHOTO BY NAHEEDA SAYEEDUDDIN

TRANSITIONS

Whether you’re updating your status about what you did over the weekend or sending a tweet to your favorite celebrity in hopes they will tweet back, the use of social media has become a way of life. Its use has reached new heights so much so that your grandparents probably have a Facebook account at this point. And now it’s proven useful for UH students and professors alike to connect. Jessica Brand, communications coordinator for social media at UH, has found social media to be an increasingly important way to get in touch with students, alumni, faculty, staff and fans. UH primarily uses Facebook, Twitter and YouTube, but also has accounts with Google+, Flickr, FourSquare and LinkedIn. UH has used these sites for everything from inviting people to events on campus and sharing important academic dates, to competing against other universities in social media games. UH won $10,000 in scholarships last year because of a campus check-in contest sponsored by Gowalla. UH administration has also benefited

SOCIAL MEDIA

from these sites by getting a better understanding of the University’s strengths and weaknesses, via feedback directly from the UH community. “When people give us positive feedback, we can see that we have done something right. When people give us negative feedback, we can work with that criticism to determine how to improve,” Brand said. “We are very happy with the relationships we have been able to build through Facebook and Twitter, and excited to be able to share UH’s great stories on YouTube.” Barbara Burke, director of Academic Program Management at the College of Pharmacy, said they have embraced social media as a way to interact with current and prospective students, alumni, faculty, staff and supporters. “We feel it is a natural fit for communicating with today’s ‘tech savvy’ constituencies,” Burke said. “It affords the (college) with a seemingly limitless opportunity for sharing topics related to (pharmacy, medicine and health).” Topics shared with the college’s students range from news in the various career fields and how to get into pharmacy school, to nutrition facts related to medications and social events hosted by the many pharmacy student organizations, Burke said. Carlos Ortega, a clinical assistant professor who teaches entrepreneurship and international marketing for Bauer College of Business, has a Twitter account exclusively to relay important information to students. His Facebook account is primarily used for class related information such as upcoming teaching schedules and changes to class content. “I recently started sharing personal information related to the life of an entrepreneur,” Ortega said. “For example, I took a road trip from San Diego to Houston and posted photos and videos of the stops and events.” Since students are more familiar with Facebook, Ortega has introduced Twitter in his classes in hopes of demonstrating how an entrepreneur and business can use Twitter to effectively communicate with those working within an organization. “A key to the success of an entrepreneur is to use the latest technology and communication tools,” Ortega said. “To be an effective

WHO’S ON

FACEBOOK?

TWITTER?

University of Houston Official Page: www.facebook.com/universityofhouston

University of Houston: @UH_Cougars

President Renu Khator: www.facebook.com/pages/ Renu-Khator/132062383480836

University News: @UH_News

The Daily Cougar: www.facebook.com/thedailycougar University of Houston Memes Page: www.facebook.com/ UniversityOfHoustonMemes UH LGBT Resource Center: www.facebook.com/UH.LGBT.RC UH Women’s Resource Center: www.facebook.com/UHWRC Mitchell Center for the Arts: www.facebook.com/uhmitchellcenter Residential Life and Housing: www.facebook.com/HousingUH

President Renu Khator: @UHpres UH Athletics: @UHCougarSports University Services: @UHUnivServices UH Parking: @uhparking UH Traffic: @UH_Traffic The Daily Cougar: @TheDailyCougar CLASS at UH: @uhclass College of Pharmacy: @UH_Pharmacy Blaffer Art Museum: @BlafferMuseum School of Communication: @ValentiSchoolUH UH Law Center: @UHLAW School of Music: @MooresSchool Residential Life and Housing: @HousingUH

of 560, there are 380 members in the group. instructor, I believe it is vital to understand The page is used for discussion, for stuhow my students communicate and relay dents to post problems they may have and information to each other. It is equally vital interact with others to come to a solution. to use these tools.” The pages are also a place for students to On the lighter side of the online world interact with Bott. exists a site that pokes fun at pretty much “I don’t mind students befriending me on anything and everything on campus: the “UH my personal page,” Bott said, “but most of it Memes” page on Facebook . is professional.” The page was created in August 2011 by It’s a well-known fact a UH student who Our society continues that social media has continues to remain to become increasingly grown to be more than anonymous. Word just status updates and of mouth began to comfortable with text, vacataion pictures. Its spread on campus email, chat and social use has spread to this and the page is close media. Therefore, it is university to make your to 4,000 likes. important that today’s college experience even “Memes bring the colleges keep up with the more exciting and pos(internet culture) sibly even easier. together,” the creator times. “The benefits of social of the page wrote via media are dynamic. News and events can a Facebook message. “Us nerds have found a reach a worldwide audience in a matter of way to be as nerdy as possible without worseconds,” Burke said. “Our society continues rying about social pressures. Social media to become increasingly comfortable with text, brings people together in a good way.” email, chat and social media. Therefore, it is Chemistry professor Simon Bott has variimportant that today’s colleges keep up with ous groups on Facebook, including one for the times.” the Chem 1332 course he teaches. In a class

TRANSITIONS

BECOMING A COOG

MORE THAN A STUDENT H

aving school spirit enhances the college experience, but becoming a Coog sets a precedent for life.

As a recent graduate from the University of Houston, one of the many things I take with me from my time at UH is school spirit. Each student has his or her own way of displaying school spirit, but embracing that spirit, along with getting involved and excelling at academics, is what makes us more than just students at a university—it’s what helps us become a Coog. It all goes hand in hand. Part of being a Coog is embracing the history and the traditions of the University. Know the school colors — Scarlet Red and Albino White. Learn the fight song. Don’t wear maroon or burnt orange, wear red, wear it often, and always on Fridays. Proudly display the UH hand sign, the “Cougar Paw.” Part of being a Coog is being involved on campus and off. Join a student organization (or two or three). Attend games —

TRANSITIONS

Spirit organizations such as the Coog Crew cheer on UH teams at each game. DAILY COUGAR FILE PHOTO

BY NAHEEDA SAYEEDUDDIN

and not just football — and cheer on your UH athletes. Support your fellow creative Coogs’ efforts by attending the many operas, concerts, art exhibitions, stage plays and creative writing events on campus and around town. Lastly, part of being a Coog is staying on top of your academics. While this last part may be a daunting task, there are many resources available on campus to help you make the grade. Remember, as a Coog, you represent one of the best universities in the nation. Embrace all these aspects and you will graduate with your class from Houston’s only public Carnegie-designated Tier One research university. And, remember this note for the future: School spirit does not die the moment you take those steps across the stage during graduation. Continuous support from UH alumni help make possible many of the activities in which you will participate. After graduation, remember to give back to UH and help make college as memorable of an experience for future students. Once you become a Coog, you are a Coog for life.

Natatorium, Outdoor Leisure Pool, Whirlpools & Sauna

Exper i

53-Foot Climbing Wall

enc

e it !

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, Master Swim, Century Club, & First Aid/CPR

Group Exercise, Personal Training, Fitness Assessments & Certifications

OUTDOOR ADVENTURE

FACULTY & STAFF

Outings, Gear Shop, Educational Workshops, L.I.F.T. & Resource Guide

Annual Golf Tournament

SPORTS CLUBS

Collegiate Non-Varsity Competition & Leadership

INTRAMURAL SPORTS League, Individual Competition & Tournaments

YOUTH

Group and Private Swim Lessons

The Department of Campus Recreation reports to the Division of Student Affairs.

713-743-7529

www.uh.edu/recreation TRANSITIONS

TRADITIONS

GAME DAY RITUALS 101 BY NAHEEDA SAYEEDUDDIN

s a new UH student attending your first ball game, it is important to know about tradition. Here is some insight into some age-old game-day traditions, to ensure you won’t be left asking “What is that siren?” or “Why are people jingling their keys?”

Key Jingling This tradition is not limited to just football games. During the last minutes of home games, fans pull out their keys and begin jingling them in the air. This is a way for UH fans to tell the opposing team’s bus driver to start the bus. DAILY COUGAR FILE PHOTO

Touchdown Pushups

The Blaze

Cougar Hand Sign

Named after David Carl Blazek, a Sigma Chi fraternity member who passed away in 1991, “The Blaze” is an oil field siren sounded after each touchdown. The siren was chosen as a symbol for the football team because of the University’s ties to Houston’s oil and gas industry and the “air-raid” style of offense.

Like many of the major universities in Texas, UH has a hand sign that signifies our loyalty to our school. The sign is made by bending the thumb over the ring finger against the palm and is held up high during games. Only one hand is to be held up when making the Cougar Hand Sign.

One of the most cherished game day traditions is the touchdown pushup. Fans cheer on the costumed Shasta as he performs celebratory pushups after each touchdown. The number of pushups equate to the score. In the past, Shasta is known to have done as many as 800 pushups, most notably during the 95-21 victory against SMU in 1989.

We are here... to listen, to help, to inform. Our services include: • Information and referrals • Dynamic programming • Friendly hangout – Men welcome • Special events

-Take Back the Night -Love your Body Day

Find out more about the WRC • Visit us at 279A University Center • Email us at wrc@uh.edu • Call us at 832.842.6191 • Like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/#!/UHWRC • Visit us online at www.uh.edu/wrc

TRANSITIONS

Not sure where to go or who to ask? Check out a few

FAQs to help you navigate

through life on campus

When should I apply for housing? As soon as possible. Spaces are acquired on a first-come, first -serve basis. As a first time student, you will pay an application fee of $50 and deposit of $300 during the online application process. Once you have electronically signed your housing agreement, you are able to select your own room. Where can I find information on how to join a student organization? With over 560 student organizations, the Center for Student Involvement (CSI) has information and resources on how to get involved on campus. Attend Catâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Back and the Involvement Fairs at the beginning of the fall semester, and visit CSIâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s website to learn about campus events and how to connect with student organizations. Where can I go on campus if I become ill or feel stressed or anxious? You may contact the Health Center or Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) to schedule an appointment. The staff is well - trained and ready to help you with any concerns. How do I find out about exercise and recreation programs? Visit the Campus Recreation and Wellness Center (CRWC) on campus or online to learn about their fitness, aquatic, and intramural offerings. You will need your Cougar Card to enter the facility. Can you help me find a job? University Career Services (UCS) can assist with both on - and off-campus employment opportunities. They can also help with your resume, cover letters, and interviewing skills so you feel fully prepared for your job search. Where can I park if I commute to campus? Visit Parking and Transportation online or at the Welcome Center to learn about student parking and pricing options. There are five Cougar Line bus routes that have various stops from outlying parking lots to the main campus areas. METRO also has conveniently located bus stops surrounding UH. What is Cougar Cash and where can I use it? Cougar Cash supplements your monetary allowance and can be used at all of the retail locations on campus. The Cougar Cash purchases are deducted from your account balance. Please see Dining Services or the Cougar Card office for additional information.

TRANSITIONS

STUDENT LIFE

NETWORK

OPEN

tarting your first year of college is a big accomplishment and a thrilling experience. Having a new course load and different schedule to get used to may seem a little overwhelming. However, with more than 400 student organizations at the University of Houston, getting involved in at least one or more is highly recommended. “Get involved early, it’s not always convenient, but the friendships and experiences will be worth it for you,” said business management senior and InterVarsity Christian Fellowship member Michael Ryan. “College is much more enjoyable when you choose to do it in a community.” You might think that there isn’t an organization for you, but with academic and professional organizations, ethnic organizations, student government, event leadership organizations, Greek life, volunteer-based organizations and more you are bound to find the right one for you. “Getting your degree is only a single part

TRANSITIONS

The University Center is a hub for student organizations on campus. PHOTO BY EMILY CHAMBERS

BY NICOLE WRIGHT

of what the college experience is about,” said computer engineering senior Joe Wanga. Wanga, a founding father of UH’s Kappa Sigma fraternity and a member of the Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers, said everything a student does in college will help lay a solid foundation for the rest of his or her life. “Don’t cut yourself short by not participating in everything you possibly can,” he said. Involvement in organizations allows you to have an opportunity to participate in fundraising, volunteering, social events and leadership opportunities. Interdisciplinary studies senior Nina Flores is involved in a wide spectrum of activities across campus. The Chi Omega fraternity member, Coog Radio disc jockey, and Homecoming board and O-Team member said being involved in these organizations has provided her with a strong sense of pride in school and in herself. “I am now part of something bigger than myself and that is such an amazing feeling,” she said. “I have gained so many life skills such as time management, networking, flexibility, problem solving and general people skills.” Beyond learning life skills and gaining

lasting friendships, many student organizations will be an outlet to future jobs after college graduation. Advertising and fine arts senior Clarissa Arispe is a member of the American Advertising Federation, which, she says, has opened opened many doors for her. AAF members are introduced to copywriters, creative directors and account managers with years of experience. “These people are so inspiring and advise us on how to be successful post-graduation. We have a lot of internship and hands on opportunities through this organization,” Arispe said. You can find information about student organizations on the school’s website, campus activities office or at the annual student organizations fair. If you don’t find something for you, it only takes two other students with the same vision and drive to start a campus organization. “The most obvious difference between a community college and a major university is the organizations and programs a university has to offer its students,” said marketing major and Hispanic Business Student Association President Juan Castañeda. “If you do not take advantage of everything UH has to offer, you are not getting the value or benefits that come with being a University of Houston Cougar.”

GET INVOLVED UH’s Center for Student Involvement maintains a registry of all student organizations on campus, which are broken down into the following categories: College or Professional Fraternity or Sorority Honors International or Ethnic Political or Social Action Recreational or Hobbies Religious or Spiritual Special Interest To browse or to learn more, visit www.uh.edu/csi/student_organizations/ student_org_search.htm

University Health Center

Hurt? Sick? All currently enrolled students can use our services whether you have UH Student Insurance or not!

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 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. 713-743-5131 (Info) – 713-743-5156 (Appt) Dental Clinic

Preventive dentistry, restorative, limited major dental procedures. Appointment only.

713-227-6453

713-743-5156

Attendant Care Services

Men’s Clinic Service to diagnose, treat, counsel on issues affecting men’s health. Appointment only.

713-748-8603

713-743-5156 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.

All visits anadre inquiriesntial confide

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

UH Dental Office New Student Specials! $1000 off INVISALIGN or WISDOM TOOTH Removal! Free WHITENING with initial visit!

On-site Services:

Fees:

Location: UH Health Center building, #525, Entrance 6

*We accept all PPO insurance including the student dental insurance. NOTE: You may only purchase the student dental insurance while enrolling in the student health insurance. Flexible payment plans are available when extensive work is required.

Emergencies Preventative General Restorative Limited Major Bleaching/Whitening INVISALIGN & WISDOM TEETH

Deeply discounted fees are available for all visits.

FOR QUESTIONS AND APPOINTMENTS CALL:

713-227-6453

MORE INFORMATION www.uh.edu/admin/ hc/dental.htm

TRANSITIONS

ACADEMIC LIFE

STAYING ON TOP

n your college career, nothing will help you more than the slightest push in the right direction. That push can determine your success in college and help you move forward to the next year and, ultimately, towards graduation. From writing labs and advisers to guest speakers, UH offers plenty of these slight pushes, which are all aimed at student success. Staying on track can be hard, especially when dealing with the stress of college courses. Academic advising helps students plan out their college career in the short and long run, and it might even steer them in a different direction. “It’s really beneficial for new students to know what classes they should take, so that they know early on whether or not they will like their major,” said pre-business sophomore Kevin Lacson. “In the event that they do not prefer it, they are able to switch before they take any more classes for the wrong major.” Giving yourself the time to meet with an adviser before the registration period helps you determine exactly what steps you need to take next. All colleges and departments on campus offer advising — there is even advising for those who have checked the “undetermined” box in the major category. “I have met with my adviser since freshman year and it has helped me out a lot because he sat with me and went over all the courses I needed to take in order to file my degree plan early,” business management senior Angelica Trujillo said.

TRANSITIONS

BY MIRIAM VILLALTA

Advisers, tutors aid in school success PHOTO BY UNIVERSITY OF HOUSTON

“He explained what courses were better to take during the fall or spring semester; which ones to avoid taking together, so as not to stress me out; helped me make certain goals that would help me graduate on time; and also referred me to the tutoring labs for additional help.” Juggling course work for multiple classes can be made easier by receiving a boost from tutoring, which can provide the push you need to pass a course in order to move on to the next step in your college career. UH’s Learning Support Services offers free peer tutoring, which is provided and paid for by student service fees. After taking advantage of on-campus tutoring, Nate Piñeda, an organizational leadership in supervision senior and track and field team member, found confidence in turning in his assignments. “I took tutoring to be on the safe side because I’m an athlete, but it actually helped me more than I thought,” said Piñeda. “Any questions I had from my lectures or any time I was stuck on my homework assignments, the tutors were there not to just help, but to explain until I understood what I was doing.” Advising and tutoring are just two of the many programs offered here at UH that are geared for student success. These resources help you stay on track towards the ultimate goal: college graduation.

BE ADVISED Information on advising or Learning Support Services: www.uh.edu/academics/majors-minors/advising/ www.las.uh.edu/lss/tutoring.aspx

Find us on

@HousingUH

TRANSITIONS

WELLNESS

HEALTHY COOGS ARE

SUCCESSFUL COOGS BY DARLENE CAMPOS

Student fees fund resources that help relieve stress

DAILY COUGAR FILE PHOTO

ollege can be a life changing experience in terms of education and social life. With intensive studying and a lack of leisure time, stress often becomes a burden among college students. However, there are numerous resources on campus to ease the various tensions and anxieties students may face. If you just want to kick back and relax, UH’s Campus Recreation and Wellness Center offers its outdoor leisure pool and its Relaxation Lab, a room designed to give students a quiet place. If you need to learn how to deal with certain issues, the center provides free workshops on making healthy living choices and service learning projects. The center also provides no-cost nutri-

TRANSITIONS

tionist counseling sessions with nutritionist interns, stress management classes and outreach programs that focus on alcohol and drug usage as well as sexual health and relationships. Director Gail Gillan said UH Wellness provides students with resources that can help students deal with stress in numerous ways. “First, they can visit the nutritionist to find out what changes they can make. They can also talk to one of our staff about stress management strategies — these are short, psycho-educational sessions,” Gillan said. “If more is needed, the students are referred to someone else.” Since studying leaves little-to-no personal time, healthy eating habits sometimes become obsolete. On campus, there are several dining options, but most eateries are fast food, which provide foods high in fat, sodium and calories. Tips provided by Gillan and nutrition intern Kristen Vansickel include avoiding fast food establishments that have no

healthy options, planning ahead for eating on campus or buying some health snacks to prevent unplanned purchases of less healthy alternatives. “Pay attention to how often you are frequenting fast food facilities; keeping track makes you more aware of your choices,” said Gillan. “Try a new, healthier place to eat or try other alternatives at the places you like to eat (i.e. grilled sandwiches versus fried sandwiches). “If you eat in the cafeteria on campus, learn to limit portion sizes. Limit soda consumption — every large drink may have a couple of hundred calories with no health benefits. Limit alcohol consumption as it contains many useless calories. “Lastly,” Gillan said, “work out at the campus recreation facility or at home.” The Campus Recreation and Wellness Center is a facility rich in healthy living resources and open to all UH students — you’ve paid to use it via student fees. In such a stressful setting, a visit to the center seems to be a wise decision in making sure you stay on top of your college career.

BE RESOURCEFUL Student fees help fund many services on campus, so make sure to take advantage of these on-campus health-related resources: Counseling and Psychological Services: www.caps.uh.edu/ Health Center: www.uh.edu/admin/hc/ University Eye Institute: www.opt.uh.edu/uei/ UH Campus Recreation: www.uhrecreation.com/ UH Wellness: www.uh.edu/wellness/index.html

BLAFFER

TRANSITIONS

ADVICE

TIPS FROM COOGS T

he world is full of good advice from great sources, but sometimes you just can’t take it. This is not one of those times.

There are close to 40,000 students on the UH campus and a number of them take on tasks that range from pitching UH’s softball team to the NCAA regionals to taking the reigns of some of UH’s feefunded student organizations. These student leaders have found a way to balance the extracurricular, the personal, the professional and, most importantly, the academic. Read and absorb.

ADRIANN HOBBS,

Senior

MAJOR: Liberal Studies ACTIVITIES: Director, Council of Ethnic Organizations; former Senator for the College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences, Student Government Association Remember that school comes first. It’s not hard for you to get distracted within your organization and lose track of your schoolwork. Try and find a balance between your schoolwork and your extra-curricular activities. Also, HAVE FUN!!! Gain lifelong friendships, experience everything that college can give you, and make the most of everything, because those four years move by quicker than you think.

CEDRIC BANDOH,

Sophomore

MAJOR: Supply Chain Management ACTIVITIES: President, Student Government Association, 2012-2013 school year; former SGA Chief of Staff Network! A good GPA and stellar resume will take you far; however, having a strong and diverse network of personal and professional contacts will land you your dream job.

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

Justin Dart, Jr. Center for Students with DisABILITIES (CSD) www.uh.edu/csd Tel: 713-743-5400 TTY: 713-749-1527 22

TRANSITIONS

• Academic Accomodations • Assistive/Adaptive Technology • Testing Rooms • Disability-Related Counseling • Advocacy • Resources

DIEDRE OUTON,

KATE GAVIOLA,

Junior

MAJOR: Political Science and Integrated Marketing ACTIVITIES: UH Marketing intern; Assistant Director, Metropolitan Volunteer Program; External Affairs Director, Student Government Association

MAJOR: Health ACTIVITIES: Starting pitcher for UH Softball

Manage your time well and write everything down, so you have what you need to get done (and it’s) visible at all times. “

JARED GOGETS,

You’re here to learn who you are and what you want to be, so have fun, but remember you’re here to get an education. Rewrite your notes. Always read ahead in your classes — it’s always smarter to have an idea of what your professor is talking about rather than going to class with no idea. Don’t be afraid to get to know your professors!

JOSHUA MANN,

Senior

MAJOR: Corporate Communications ACTIVITIES: President, Student Program Board; Senator at Large, Student Government Association; announcer for UH Athletics; New UC committee Get involved in a student organization and move up to a leadership position. It will open doors for you, allow you to network with students, faculty and staff, and make you love the University of Houston even more!

When you don’t know where to go for assistance, come to the Dean of Students Office. That’s the suggestion of the staff members who provide assistance to all students with universityrelated concerns through the Dean of Students. Through the Ombudservice, Dean of Students staff members will provide assistance directly to students or make referrals to others on campus who can help.

Senior

MAJOR: Print Journalism ACTIVITIES: Editor-in-Chief and writer, The Daily Cougar Get involved with an organization early. It will give you more time to leave a lasting impact on campus. Also, when you want food in the middle of the night, Ruchi’s or House of Pies is the way to go.

The Dean of STuDenTS office STaff are available To aSSiST STuDenTS who have queSTionS or concernS.

Office Hours

Fall and Spring, when claSSeS are in SeSSion: 8 aM To 6 PM, Monday-ThurSday, 8 aM To 5 PM Friday; SuMMer: 8 aM To 5 PM

For more information

call 832-842-6183 or coMe by rM. 252 in The univerSiTy cenTer, hTTP://www.uh.eDu/DoS

DSA TRANSITIONS

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TRANSITIONS

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DAILY COUGAR FILE PHOTO

BIG MOVE BIG GOALS

BY JOSHUA SIEGEL

Final season in C-USA to show mettle of UH Athletics

he 2011 season was just a preview for the University of Houston, its Athletics program and UH’s many student athletes — and you, the class of 2016, will be there to see it when all involved finally get to play it out on the national stage. During the 2011-2012 school year, the University of Houston became a part of the national sports conversation — a conversation it had not been a part of for nearly 20 years — when it was announced that UH was set to move into the Big East conference for the 2013-2014 season. Prior to the announcement and in the months after, UH’s sports programs showed what they would bring to the conference. In fall 2011, UH’s football program chased a Bowl Champion-

TRANSITIONS

ship Series game, hosted ESPN College GameDay prior to the Conference USA championship game against Southern Miss, and eventually won a bowl game with the victory in the TicketCity Bowl against storied football program Penn State. In spring 2012, UH men’s basketball announced one of the 20 best basketball recruiting classes in the nation. The women’s basketball program recruitment efforts were also nationally ranked. UH’s softball program ranked No. 20 and No. 22 in two national polls prior to the start of the season and eventually received an at-large berth to the NCAA regional in Austin. UH officials and students added to the building change with the final approval of new athletics facilities. The fall of 2011 should serve as a taste of what’s to come with the move to the Big East, which becomes official on June 1, 2013. The move from Conference USA to UH’s first truly national athletic conference will pay enormous dividends for the Cou-

ATHLETICS

PHOTO BY HENDRICK ROSEMOND

Above: Women’s Softball team celebrates a 5-0 victory against Houston Baptist.

PHOTO BY NINE NGUYEN

BYE-BYE, ROBBIE

Right: Houston Women’s Basketball Guard Michelle White.

The hourglass of time that governs the lifespan of Corbin J. Robertson Stadium will drop its final grain of sand in December, following the last home game of the 2012 football season. Robertson — or “the Rob,” as Coogs have come to call it — has been a staple of Houston athletics, both amateur and professional. The Houston Oilers in the early ’60s and, more recently, the Houston Dynamo have both called it home. UH officials began looking into options regarding the stadium in 2009. With Robertson in need of upgrades and repairs, officials announced in June 2010 that the stadium would be demolished to make way for a new stadium. So, with just seven home games left, make sure to show “the Rob” some love before it comes tumbling down. —Christopher Shelton DAILY COUGAR FILE PHOTO

BY THE NUMBERS gars and the University, with increased television revenue and national exposure. While the future of the bowl and potential playoff system is up in the air when the BCS expires after 2013, for now, the Cougars join an automatic-qualifying conference, which will give them a more secure shot at a major bowl game. The move also affects both men’s and women’s basketball, as the Big East has been one of the premiere basketball conferences for more than 30 years. UH’s baseball team suffered a rough season, but with the first full recruiting class for the coaching staff, the team has a year to adjust and prepare for the move into the tougher conference. The move to the Big East will pose a challenge for the Cougars, but with new facilities, great recruiting classes coming in and showings in the postseason, UH’s teams seem ready for it — you should be too.

$650,000 adjusted to reflect cost in 2012:

original cost of construction

$9.25 million

number of years since the stadium opened on Sept. 18, 1942

record attendance in the stadium’s current capacity for 2011 Conference USA Championship Game, December 2011 :

14,500 total attendance for the first game played in 1942

32,413 TRANSITIONS

PARKING

LOTS OF OPTIONS BY CHANNLER HILL

Alternatives can ease parking pains

hether you live on campus or plan on commuting you will need to figure out how to deal with parking.

You can go the “easy” route and buy a parking pass for either of the parking garages where spots are guaranteed, but if you’re on a budget and plan on attending classes between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m., you’ll have to fight for a spot in the student or economy lots. UH senior Rainie Le, who usually has a schedule consisting of

morning classes, is among the many students who park in the commuter lots for budget reasons. To ensure that she finds a parking spot, Le commutes to campus two hours earlier despite the fact that she lives a brief 20 minutes away from campus. “I don’t like anything about the parking at UH, especially the price,” Le said. “It’s way too expensive for students … But I have no choice; it’s too far to walk.” If you’re looking to buck the crowd, you should know that there are alternatives. For example, UH provides five campus shuttles that pick up students to expedite them to their destination. One of these lines swings by UH’s Energy Research Park, which is located a mile away from campus and offers 500 parking spaces for students including some sheltered parking spots. “It’s only good (to park in the ERP parking lot) during certain times of the day,” said senior Jon Mohr, “but it’s usually not a big deal if you plan ahead.” The ERP shuttle line also swings by Metro’s Eastwood Transit Center off of Elgin and the Gulf Freeway, which is another alternative to the UH parking lots. You can either take one of Metro’s numerous bus lines to the center or park in one of the adjacent parking lots and then catch the UH shuttle to campus. Parking does not need to be a hassle. Your main goal is to plan ahead and purchase a parking pass that works with your wallet and helps get you to your campus destination and on time for class.

PHOTO BY HENDRICK ROSEMOND

TIMELINE: TYPICAL EASTWOOD / ERP SHUTTLE LINE LOOP 2:15 p.m. Shuttle returns to UC

2:00 p.m. 1:58 p.m. - Board shuttle at University Center

TRANSITIONS

Shuttle leaves UC

2:05 p.m. - Shuttle reaches Energy Research Park - makes various stops

2:07 p.m. Shuttle leaves ERP

2:11 p.m. - Shuttle reaches METRO’s Eastwood Transit Center

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Parking and Transportation TRANSITIONS 832-842-1097

THE ARTS

CAMPUS

CULTURED BY ANNETTE SANTOS

he University of Houston arts community has much to offer without ever having to step foot off campus — and most performances and events are usually free to students. Access to events and performances starts with a visit to the Arts Quad, the courtyard located in the center of UH’s art community. The area is surrounded by most of UH’s creative departments: Moores School of Music, School of Theatre & Dance, Mitchell Center for the Arts, School of Art and the Blaffer Art Museum. The only departments not included are the College of Architecture and the Creative Writing program. “At UH Arts, we believe that the arts should be a part of all students’ lives at (UH),” said Jana Jackson, director of communications and marketing for UH Arts. “Being exposed to the arts at all stages of your life fuels creativity, and creates opportunities to understand the world, people around you, and yourself in a deeper and more significant way.” UH Arts departments, Jackson said, have brought the entire UH community to the 30

TRANSITIONS

forefront of Houston’s art scene, and into the national and international stage. “UH’s art community stands out from other universities because of the breadth and depth of the arts programs here, and the exposure to professional art and artists that our students get over their time at (UH) is unparalleled,” Jackson said. “Not only do we offer a wide variety of arts education, but there are countless ways that UH fosters collaboration between not only other arts departments, but with other non-arts departments at the University.” UH Arts’ plans to update the Arts Quad have already started with the renovation of the Blaffer Art Museum, which reopens in September. The next phase of renovations will include interior and exterior upgrades to the surrounding arts buildings. “The courtyard in the center will be much more pedestrian friendly and will include a new public art piece that is amazing,” Jackson said. The courtyard located in the Fine Arts building is also undergoing a facelift, and will feature a stage that will be available for all the UH Arts departments. The most important thing for students, Jackson said, is to realize that the art community at UH is very much alive and active.

The School of Theatre & Dance’s production “Zombie Prom.” DAILY COUGAR FILE PHOTO

“It is important for students to know they are welcome here,” Jackson said. “There is a creative outlet for everyone on this campus.”

SCHOOL OF ART PAINTING DEPARTMENT’S OPEN STUDIO. DAILY COUGAR FILE PHOTO

SAVE THE DATE The UH Arts Open House Thursday, Oct. 18, at the Arts Quad Live bands, free food and drinks, mural painting, T-shirt screen printing, scavenger hunts, prizes and tours of all the arts facilities and public art.

ALMA MATTERS

FIGHT SONG & ALMA MATER The Cougar Fight Song

The Alma Mater

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.

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.

Lyrics: Forest Fountain Music: Marion Ford

Words and music by: Harmony Class of 1942

PHOTO BY CHARLEY PRINE/SPIRIT OF HOUSTON

Here To Serve International Students, Research Scholars, and Foreign Faculty. Provides services and information pertaining to:

• US. Immigration law • Financial Assistance • Counseling & Advising • International Friendship Program • Orientation • Intercultural Training • Arrival Services

•Police

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Serving Our University Community

www.uh.edu/police

International Student Counselors also serve as cultural guides for international students and scholars by connecting students with appropriate offices and resources both on and off campus. 302 Student Service Center 1 (713) 743-5065

www.issso.uh.edu www.facebook.com/UH.internationalservices

TRANSITIONS

BOOKS

BUCKING THE BOOKS BY BETHANY REDD

Bookstores are no longer the only option

raditionally, students have purchased college textbooks from their convenient on-campus bookstore, but today’s student can utilize a host of alternatives that can be found online and in varied formats.

There are, however, also alternatives around campus to Barnes & Noble, UH’s main bookstore at the University Center. “Since transferring to UH, I have bought all of my textbooks from the Textbook Brokers bookstore near campus,” said Tiffany Jenkins, a public relations junior. “They are very helpful and will bring up Amazon.com to show you that their prices are just as low as the used books on the site.” One of the more popular online alternatives, Amazon, offers quick user-friendly service with a massive catalog of book titles. By entering the ISBN of the textbook you are looking for, you can quickly amass a list of brokers and determine the best price at a glance. Amazon offers expedited shipping options, as well as buyback options at the end of the semester for your used textbooks. A group of UH alumni founded givepals.com, an online social marketplace where people can give, trade or sell textbooks and other items. “Students can go on givepals.com, upload the books they need and/or the books they are selling, and we match them with students at UH who are selling or buying those books,” said co-founder Eric Imasogie. Another option growing in popularity is textbook rental services. Whether online or at a storefront, textbook rental is a great option for cash-strapped students who have no intention of holding on to the book after class is over. Websites such as Chegg.com, Neebo.com and textbookrentals.com provide used textbooks at a significant discount for a set period of time. At the end of the semester, students ship the books back at the cost of the company. A caveat to renting books online though is if the books are returned late or not at all, a hefty fee may be incurred. Technology changes in the publishing industry are predicted to change the future of textbooks (and paper publications) as we know it, but the effects of such a change have not yet hit the ground running.

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PHOTO BY NINE NGUYEN

Electronic textbooks, or e-books, require students to purchase a code, which in turn allows them access to the book’s electronic version online. Some publishers also provide extra learning tools that are meant to supplement the material. Along the same line, e-readers, a relatively new option for textbook purchases, have yet to penetrate the textbook market. E-readers like Amazon’s Kindle, Barnes & Nobles’ Nook and Apple’s iPad allow you to purchase downloadable copies of textbooks at a lower cost. The downside to these options is that you can’t resell when you are done with them and note taking can be cumbersome. Whatever your individual preference, it will be most beneficial to do your homework before making any textbook purchases. The sooner you begin your research, the more options will be available to you when you do make your purchasing decision.

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21ST CENTURY

STUDENTS

Gadgets may help gain an edge in class BY MAX GARDNER

magine this. You are sitting in class at the beginning of the semester and some of your classmates are shuffling the several pages of first-day materials stacked precariously on their desks — syllabus, notes on the first lecture, an additional reading assignment to be discussed in class today. You, however, have one single device in front of you — an e-reader where you have stored the PDF or text documents and can view them with the touch of your finger at any time.

The lecture begins, and people start fumbling with notebooks or papers to take notes, but you have a special electronic notepad that allows you to digitally store your notes as you write them, giving you extra space and less to keep up with. As technology has evolved and our society has grown increasingly dependent on it, educators and the companies creating these products have realized that these tools can be utilized in the classroom. There are now several devices created specifically for students that can ease their experience and help them to better maximize their learning potential.

Beyond the Desktop The first is a staple to most college students — a laptop. A significant shift to Apple’s MacBook has taken place. While these offer essentially the same tools you could find on a Microsoft Windows computer, better graphics and specially designed programs make the MacBook a great buy for anyone pursuing a visually creative major. Generally, lower models start at $999. “Doing well in class necessitates having a laptop, like my MacBook,” said Nick Fox, a political science freshman who uses his MacBook for all of his school assignments. “Everything from writing papers to researching projects and preparing presentations, it does the job and does it well.”

Apple iPad, starting at $499.

Tablets and Readers Another tool readily available to students is the tablet, which can be used to take notes, keep up with email at all times, or even as an e-reader to purchase textbooks and leisure reads. Since its original release in April 2010, Apple’s iPad, which can sell for as low as $499, has had two model updates and taken the tablet market by storm. The iPad may be the best known tablet, but it is by no means the only one on the market. Katie Teeters, a political science and history sophomore, owns the Toshiba Thrive, a larger tablet that is equipped with several different connection ports. “My tablet is slightly heavier than an iPad, but it also has an HDMI, USB, mini-USB, and SD card port,” said Teeters. “I am able to buy the various books I need for classes, rather than lug around several heavy textbooks. I am also able to save the PDFs I need to read to my tablet, rather than printing them out. Plus my tablet gives me easy access to the Internet whenever I need it.” Kindle Fire, $199. AMAZON.COM

TRANSITIONS

APPLE.COM

GADGETS

MacBook, starting at $999.

Following tablets in the sense of design and purpose are e-reader devices. With these, students can find many of their textbooks in a cheaper format that gives them portability and a lighter load on their way to class. It also allows for virtual highlighting and note taking, making the act of reading the textbook much more interactive and study-conducive. The most prominent e-reader at the moment is Amazon’s Kindle Fire, as it breaks the barrier between tablet and e-reader. While its primary focus and purpose is to allow its users to read books, it also has apps and Internet access, which gives owners almost all the same opportunities that they would have on a regular tablet. These start at only $199, which is another advantage when compared to the prices of most tablets. Barnes & Noble also offers its Nook Tablet at the same price. Students can also look at cheaper devices as well that retain the reading and note-taking capabilities without the extra tablet characteristics. “My Kindle is amazing. It gives me portability and ease to read whatever I want, wherever I may be,” said journalism sophomore Nam-My Le. “Many of my books, especially for Human Situation, were either free or really cheap on Kindle, and its definition, highlight and notes feature makes it ideal for classroom use.” As for taking notes in class over what the professor is lecturing, students can utilize digital voice recorders and notepads. Basic audio recorders allow for a cheap and easy way to keep the professor’s lectures for playback later, whether it be for clarity or to hear something explained again.

21st Century Note Taking A device that goes beyond pencils and pens is the Livescribe Smartpen, which gives students the capability to record everything that they hear and write down from the moment they press record on a special type of paper called dot paper. When students go back and tap on specific points in their notes, the Smartpen will play back the audio from that specific point in the recording. With this software, students can easily track important information that they need to remember. The pen also connects to the Internet and gives the user access to apps such as Wikipedia and language translators. Smartpens start at $119.95 and come with the software and notepad necessary to use them. There are also tablets designed specifically for taking notes and drawing, such as the Wacom tablet, which computer engineering freshman Liz Morgan uses for several of her classes. “The tablet is technically designed for digital art and comes with a few photo-editing programs, but it has other uses as well. I personally use it to take notes for class, because often times I have to write out an equation or draw a diagram,” said Morgan. “I like having digital notes, and typing out long equations or making diagrams manually can be complicated, if not impossible.” Overall, there is a wide variety of technological tools to choose from, and you should research these and take full advantage of them. It is best to come into the first semester prepared with anything that will make your transition into college-level courses easier.

APPLE.COM

SmartPen, starting at $119.95. LIVESCRIBE.COM

TRANSITIONS

CAMPUS

CONSTRUCTING A FUTURE

BY LAUREN NICOLE MATHIS

Ongoing, upcoming projects to be available to Class of 2016

lthough your main focus when you first set foot on campus will be textbooks and enrollment, you should also take note of the new buildings and renovations that are going on around campus. Many of these projects are scheduled to be completed within two to three years, so you will be able to enjoy them before you receive your UH diploma. One of the upcoming projects is a new stadium for the school where Robertson Stadium, which will be demolished in December, currently stands.

“We expect to kick-off the development of the new design in early June,” said Jonathan Thurston, interim executive director of Facilities Planning & Construction. “Demolition of the old stadium is scheduled to take place following the last game of the football season with (final) construction to be complete by July of 2014.” The nearly 3-year process of determining what to do with the stadium received a final push in February when UH students voted in favor of a new student fee to help fund the construction of a new stadium. The new stadium, Thurston said, will provide “vast improvements to the overall game day experience, atmosphere and amenities. “Everything from the enhanced tailgating opportunities and to premium stadium amenities, to even simple things like sufficient restroom facilities will serve to enhance the pride UH students can have in their school and their football team,” he said.

Campus Residential The number of UH residence halls is set to be augmented and existing halls will receive a variety of renovations over the next year. Cougar Place and the second phase of Cougar Village will be open to students in August 2013, said Don Yackley, executive director of Residential Life & Housing. “These two projects are going great, ground has been broken for both projects, and we are on schedule,” said Yackley. “The new construction, opening in a year, will be critical in serving more students on campus by providing additional living options with student access and convenience.” Additional projects in the works or just completed for the residence halls include a new computer lab in the Moody Towers, which will also see the completion

DAILY COUGAR FILE PHOTO

TRANSITIONS

CAMPUS of a new plumbing project this summer. The ventilation systems in the Quadrangle halls — Bates, Law, Oberholtzer, Settegast and Taub — will also be worked on and completed this summer. And, elevator upgrades are also on line for this summer in the Moody Towers, Cougar Village and Calhoun Lofts.

store is on the second level. The lounge will fit about 200 people, Kowalka said. Project completions are scheduled for December 2013 for phase one and December 2014 for phase two. There will be a grand opening on the first day of the spring semester in 2015.

Top-tier Student Center

Coming in on Rails

Students also will be able to look forward to a new University Center that will bring both entertainment and new food selections to the campus. Construction of the new UC is set to begin in June, said Keith Kowalka, assistant vice president for Student Affairs-Student Life. The first of two phases of the construction plan will span about 18 months and will involve the deconstruction of the building’s ground level, Kowalka said. A 2-floor addition will also be built over the underground level. The building of an east addition, which will house a movie theater, 2-level bookstore, and restaurants like McDonald’s and Panda Express is also part of this phase. “The east addition will be built out towards the Welcome Center parking lot,” Kowalka said, “and the theater will be a multi-purpose room during the day and at night it will be for movies and school performances.” The second phase begins with construction on the west side of the building, which will feature a lounge where the current book-

Another major project that has been in the works is construction of METRO’s Southeast Line, which will run right by UH by spring 2014, according to METRO. The line will run from downtown through the Third Ward, past UH and on to the Palm Center Transit Center. Eric Holamon, customer service manager for UH Parking and Transportation Services, said this transportation will not only help students financially — the 50 percent discount for students using a Metro Q-card will extend to the METRORail as well — but the line will help the environment as well. “Students will have another option for commuting to campus besides personal vehicles or bus routes,” Holamon said. “As more students utilize alternative transportation methods the traffic and parking lot congestion in and around campus will lessen.” Though many of the construction projects will not be complete for another two to three years, students arriving in the fall of 2012 will likely see the finishing touches of the works before they graduate from UH.

TRANSITIONS

CITY GUIDE

MONTROSE

W E

The heart of Houston’s alt-crowd and gay community, enjoy the numerous shops, coffeehouses, bars and restaurants that make many a top ten list.

DOWNTOWN

GALLERIA

The city center has much to offer: watch a musical or play, take in an Astros or Rockets game, or catch a Dynamo match. You can even enjoy the bayou with its many biking and jogging trails that can lead you as far as Memorial Park.

You may not be able to completely indulge in a shopping trip to the Galleria, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a day of people watching, a nice lunch or a quick skate on the ice.

MIDTOWN 59

MUSEUM DISTRICT

The straight, yuppie cousin of Montrose, this redeveloped area with a number of bars and restaurants is poppin’ during happy hour and weekends.

288

You can take all of Spring Break and still not take in all 19 museums located within the 3-mile span. Visit houstonmuseumdistrict.org for more info.

610

GALVESTON

CITYGUIDE

ouston — the state’s largest city, the country’s fourth largest — is a diverse city with a number of areas that cater to all aspects of a college crowd. Find your right fit, but don’t forget to explore. PHOTOS BY GREATER HOUSTON CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU

TRANSITIONS

The 45-minute ride to the island may sometimes be shorter than the time it takes to find a parking spot on campus — perfect for a day trip to the beach.

BAYOUCULLEN FULL PAGE AD

TRANSITIONS

NOTABLE ALUMNI

SUCCESS STORIES

BY DARLENE CAMPOS

Jim Parsons

Class: 1996 | Degree: Theater Profession: Emmy and Golden Globe winning actor Accomplishments: Most famous for playing ‘Sheldon’ on “The Big Bang Theory”; Golden Globe and Emmy award winner

Randy Quaid

Class: 1971 | Degree: Drama Profession: Actor Accomplishments: Best known for roles in “Kingpin,” “Independence Day,” and “Brokeback Mountain”

Loretta Devine

Class: 1971 | Degree: Speech and Drama Profession: Actress Accomplishments: Broadway star; major television appearances in “Boston Public,” “Grey’s Anatomy,” and “Eli Stone”

Julian Schnabel

Class: 1973 | Degree: Fine Arts Profession: Filmmaker Accomplishments: Director, film adaptation of the best-selling memoir “The Diving Bell and the Butterfly”; Director, concert film “Lou Reed Berlin”

Elizabeth Warren

Class: 1970 | Degree: Speech Pathology and Audiology Profession: Harvard University law professor Accomplishments: Special Advisor, Consumer Financial Protection Bureau; Former Chair, Congressional Oversight Panel; one of Time Magazine’s 100 Most Influential People in the World: 2009, 2010

Jack Valenti

Class: 1946 | Degree: Business Profession: President of Motion Picture Association of America Accomplishments: Special Assistant to President Lyndon B. Johnson; created the MPAA rating system

Vassar Miller

Class: 1947 | Degree: English Profession: Poet Accomplishments: Writer of the anthology “Adam’s Footprint”; Pulitzer Prize nominee

John “Danny” Olivas

Class: 1993 | Degree: Mechanical Engineering Profession: Former NASA Astronaut and Engineer Accomplishments: Mission specialist on 2009 space shuttle Discovery

Start Thinking about your Career!  Help Choosing Your Major

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University Career Services

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E-mail: ucs@uh.edu

www.career.uh.edu

TRANSITIONS

FROM THE EDITOR

chool spirit is a concept that has always eluded me. Even in high school, where I was a member of the marching band and a writer for the yearbook, the spirit never overtook me. So I definitely remember when it was that I became a Coog.

I became a news editor for The Daily Cougar, UH’s student-run newspaper, in June 2010. Before that summer, I got up, went to class, and left right after my last one. I was a student who went to UH. Working the news desk at the Cougar, I had to assign stories that were relevant to this campus. I learned so much working the news desk — the passion of my fellow students in the creative, professional and athletic fields; the caliber of our UH professors, both past and present; the commitment of the staff on this campus; and, no matter what you think of them, the way UH officials were hard at work making sure our diploma would take us further and farther than we could imagine. I was never one for school spirit, but school pride is a very different concept. I became a Coog when, after editing story after story, I

began to feel that sense of pride in UH. I became a UH student. Had I been asked to oversee this magazine before I became a Coog, I don’t think I would have done it. But, now, I gladly did. I must thank my fellow editors, the great writers and photographers, and our wonderful staff in the advertising and business offices of Student Publications for helping put together this great magazine. Also, big thanks to the Coogs who provided tips and posed for our fantastic cover. There are so many great things going on here at UH. And whatever stage you are in on your academic career, you should make time to get to know your campus and your place in it.

move into university life Be a part of all that University of Houston has to oﬀer. Cambridge Oaks oﬀers the independence of apartment style living with the convenience of being on campus.

take a tour today

4444 Cullen Boulevard, Houston, TX 77004 phone 713.748.2606 visit cambridgeoaksUH.com TRANSITIONS

DINING

SMART EATS

BY BETHANY REDD

Freshman 15 need not be part of life DAILY COUGAR FILE PHOTO

ircumventing extra pounds can prove to be a daunting task while on campus. Often, when rushing in between classes it’s easy to grab whatever is convenient — but by keeping these few simple tips in mind, your campus mealtime can be efficient and nutritious. Plan Ahead for a Well-Balanced Campus Life A little bit of planning can ensure that your body and mind are adequately fueled for classes and extracurricular activities. A wellbalanced meal consists of lean protein and complex carbohydrates. Sources of lean protein that are available on campus include chicken, turkey, fish, beef, legumes and dairy. Complex carbohydrates include fruits, fresh and/or cooked vegetables and whole grains. When choosing options for lunch, include as many fresh options as are available and avoid foods laden with sugar and artificial ingredients. All of the dining services at UH provide detailed nutritional information by request.

Be Adamant About Breakfast Far too often, people who lead busy lifestyles forget about breakfast when rushing out the door for work or that 8 a.m. class. The most important meal of the day, breakfast provides fuel to power through your day and has the added benefit of making you less vulnerable to cravings and unhealthy food choices later in the day. A breakfast that is high in fiber and low in sugar, such as oatmeal,

TRANSITIONS

provides just the right balance of nutrients to provide much needed mental clarity for those early morning lectures. Don’t have time to sit down and eat in the mornings? A protein shake or smoothie is a great option for those on-the-go Coogs.

Consider Environmentally Conscious Alternatives Interested in saving calories while decreasing your carbon footprint? Consider designating one day per week for vegetarian-only meals. Vegetarian protein sources include beans, nuts, low-fat dairy, and fruits and vegetables such as avocados, broccoli and spinach. Pair one of these with a hearty portion of vegetables and whole grains for a balanced meal that will keep you full and focused for the remainder of your class day. All of the coffee locations on campus also offer fair trade coffees and teas, which promote sustainability.

Brown Bag It By taking your meals to campus, the lure of unhealthy snacking and poor meal choices can be avoided. For those students who are interested in bringing a lunch to campus, it is good to invest in a sturdy cooler with plenty of room for ice packs. Microwaves can be found at many of the campus dining locations, as well as the first floor of the M.D. Anderson Memorial Library.

THE DISH ON DINING

For more information about campus dining options or to view a map of dining locations, visit: www.campusdish.com

BECOME AN AIR FORCE OFFICER

Skills & Leadership Training * Scholarships * Officer Training

Contact Detachment 003 at (713) 743-4932 www.uh.edu/afrotc The University of Houston is an EEO/AA institution.

COUGAR FIRST IMPRESSIONS

WELCOMING COOGS FOR 15 YEARS

We’ll help you find your way... Look for our tents around campus Aug 27-28. Our volunteers will help you find your classes. ...And we’ll help you cool down! Our volunteers will hand out bottled water to help you beat the heat! And you can fill your water bottles from the Water Monster hydration system!

GET SOME DAILY In print. Online. On the go.

www.uh.edu/sc/cfi

THE DAILY COUGAR

the official student newspaper of the university of houston since 1934

The University of Houston is an EEO/AA Institution

TRANSITIONS

Your COUGAR CARD is your key to the campus.

HOW DO I GET IT?

Visit https://accessuh.edu/login and click on the Cougar Card icon or call 832.842.CARD (2773)

And there’s more... es r Card Servic a g u o C ! w e N through e a meal plan

rvices. our online se students gin . Commuter must may purchas lo / s nt du de .e h tu u S s  ttps://acces icon. Residential students Visit us at h ard the Cougar C must select at sing icon. by visiting us select myHou photo online r ei d icon. ar th C it r ga bm su the Cou ct le  Students may se d an n Friday during ssuh.edu/logi ytime Monday— an d ar https://acce C r ga up your Cou -5pm. You may pick Cash and ss hours 8am ne si bu r la l Plan, Cougar gu ea M , ex our re Fl r u in view yo ssuh.edu/log nts may now at https://acce s  Stude u t si Vi e. st e onlin e if lo . printing balanc gar Card onlin ou C r ei th e disabl nts may now /login.  Stude accessuh.edu / :/ ps tt h at s u Visit owers dining us Eat on Campes can ONLY be used in MoodydiTning facility on sidential plan swip  Meal d the new re an ) o C d o fo hall (Fresh (RFoC). ciities e of campus id s t es l UH dining fa w al e th at r ed s u an be i, Chinese Sta ash dollars c Alister’s Del c M , s re  Cougar C to s convenience including the . and get Cones & More ning facilities di al ti en and Shasta’s id s in our re Cougar Cash  Use an price. pl l ea eal plan at 10% off the m ard icon. purchase a m ay m s nt the Cougar C de t tu s ec el ll s A d an  gin essuh.edu/lo https://acc pus. Shop on came available to all actively enrolled First Name unt. Last Name counts ar balance acco g in lin  Flex ac c de a es work as pus purchas students and ted to on-cam ic tr s e re e nc ar ie s  Flex dollar tores, conven at: UH Books d te ep , vending c c A y. onl tablishments es ng ti ea s stores, campu re. d mo t card machines, an cash or credi by e ad m be the its can e located at  Depos r Card Offic ga u 101 or by o e C it e u th S in Garage ng ki ar P r te through Welcome Cen 273), Monday (2 D R A C 2. calling 832.84 m-5pm. Friday from 8a Student

TRANSITIONS

• Campus printing accounts are assigned to all actively enrolled students for general computing labs with laser printing capabilties. MD Anderson Library $25 Information Technology Commons $7.50 Writing Center $7.50

• Access Control to Residential Housing • Enrollment Verification • Campus Recreation & Wellness Center Access • Classroom Attendance • Access to UH Sporting Events

TRANSITIONS

THE STAFF BOX

JOSÉ AGUILAR, Editor in Chief

NAHEEDA SAYEEDUDDIN, Managing Editor

UH has a number of centers available that not only help you succeed, but make you feel welcome: the LGBT and Women’s resource centers, Veterans Services and a host of others. Find the one that fits you and makes you feel like you fit in. College shouldn’t be a journey you embark on alone.

Always maintain a healthy level of communication with your professors during the semester and after. Never be afraid to ask about grades, progress or any concerns you may have. Keeping in touch after the semester will help you in the long run when it comes time to get recommendations for jobs.

Staff Writers Darlene Campos, Senior

Graphics Editor Jorge Robles

Check your PeopleSoft periodically! If you don’t, you could miss very important announcements regarding your financial aid status and enrollment appointments. Also, when dining, watch out for fatty foods— those Freshman 15 can pack on faster than you think.

Copy Editor Amanda Hilow,

Channler Hill, Junior Don’t be afraid to pass on a party to study. Remember, you’re in college and the parties and good times aren’t going anywhere. It’s better to start off with good grades than to start off with bad grades that will cause you to make up for it in the end. Never forget why you came to college. The goal is to achieve excellence!

Take a tour around campus before classes start and find all of your classrooms, so you don’t get lost on your first day.

Production

Jed Ocot, Junior Get involved. It’s the best way to meet people and it makes school worthwhile. I started out not really wanting to take part in anything, but once I did it made my experience at UH more enjoyable. It’s a rush to feel like you’re a part of something and to take pride in your school, as cheesy as that sounds. Getting involved is beneficial to a great college experience.

Andres Garcia Farah Hasnie Paul Vilchez

Annette Santos, Junior Don’t procrastinate. This is something I still struggle with, but break this habit ASAP! Also, sit in the front of the class, take lots of notes and asks lots of questions.

Christopher Shelton, Junior

Photographers Nine Nguyen Hendrick Rosemond Emily Chambers

UH is a very large and diverse campus. You will learn about cultures that you didn’t even know existed — and that is a good thing.

Cover Design Andres Garcia

Miriam Villalta, Senior Utilize the Recreation center. I first went with two friends I had met in the Spirit of Houston. We worked out together and then cooled down outside talking and getting to know each other. It soon became a routine that helped me keep up with my fitness, and helped me bond with two people that are still my best friends to this day.

Max Gardner Lauren Mathis Bethany Redd Joshua Siegel Nicole Wright ABOUT THE MAGAZINE: 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 written permission of the director of the Department of Student Publications.

TRANSITIONS

Cover Models Betsy Galicia Adriann Hobbs

Kiah Prevo Tyler Swensen

Advertising Reps Victoria Gbenoba, Student Ad Manager CONTACT US: Room 7, UC Satellite Student Publications University of Houston Houston, TX 77204-4015 (713) 743-5350

s fro a e d m ti

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TRANSITIONS