November 2009
Dedicated to Revolutionary Media
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Black Ink Staff Members
Table of Contents
Editor-in-Chief
In Every Issue
Kirstin Garriss
Contributing Writers Kent Robertson Perrine DeShield Briana Harper Charnelle Wilson Jessica Cruel Justin Mayhew Kandace Watkins Averi Harper Simone Suber Jessica Jones Alexis Brightman Ashley Thompson Christina ‚Sola‛ Ajewole Brittany Johnson Amber Clifford
Photographers John Daniels Graham Mulvaney
Ad Committee Kirstin Garriss Mykia Johnson Rickey Youngblood
Guest Writers Laurie Willis, Black Ink, UNC ‘86 Bryan Weynand, Carolina Review Ellen Louis & Bianca Bell, PAC
Letter from the Editor pg. 3 In the PIT pg. 17
In This Issue 40 Years and Still Alive and Kickin’ pg. 4 Editor TO Editor pg. 6 Is BSM Still Relevant? pg. 8 FACE OFF pg. 9 An ImPACtful Statement pg. 13 First-Year Mistakes pg. 14 Listen to Your Elders pg. 16 Road to Royalty pg. 18 BALLer Fashion pg. 19 A Night of Simple Elegance pg. 20 UNC in the Fall pg. 22 A Dream Preferred pg. 23 Woo! That Diversity is Fine... pg. 24 A Summer Well Spent pg. 25 A Fallen Soldier pg. 26 A Helping Hand Left Cold pg. 28 The Jasmin Jones Story pg. 30 Meet the Family pg. 32
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Letter From the Editor When I became Editor-in-Chief of the So, as you pick up this issue of the Black Ink, I had no idea what I was getting Black Ink be prepared for a publication that is myself into! I knew what I wanted to achieve going to regain its presence on UNC’s camthis year and I set pus. I’m happy to say that goals for the magazine but this issue is packed with artiI still had my doubts. In cles that cover every topic fact, I was worried that no you can think of: from disone would sign up for my cussing BSM’s relevance, listserv or that I wouldn’t highlighting Diversity, to comhave a steady memorating the Black Ink. staff to contribute articles I am proud to anfor the school year. nounce, this issue of the But after my first Black Ink is also dedicated to meeting, I felt all my worour 40th anniversary! ries disappear. Not only Sometimes, I still can’t did people sign up for my believe that 40 years ago this listserv, but I found myself publication made its debut with nearly two dozen, onto campus and has contintalented and amazing ued to have a presence at Carolina students who UNC ever since. I am honored wanted to become the to be the Editor-In-Chief. Black Ink staff. And over the course of the semester, So, enjoy the Black Ink and happy reading! these staff members have become the body - Kirstin Garriss and soul of the magazine. Without their thoughts, ideas and willingness to revive the magazine, I have no clue where the Black Ink Want to write a letter to the editor? would be right now! Black Ink staff, “THANK Then do it! Email all letters to the YOU!” I know I could not have done this editor to uncblackink@gmail.com. without you. Thanks for being the “Ink” that will revolutionize the voice. Our mission remains: “ If Blackness can be transformed into pictures and words, we intend to do so, by any means necessary.”
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40 Years and Still Alive and Kickin’ From the headlining story “Malcolm that his involvement with Black Ink would X Liberation University” to “Audacity of Ig- hinder his student status on campus. norance” this year marks the 40th anniver“Only 500 to 1,000 copies of the first sary of Black Ink. issue were printed,” said Cureton Johnson, the first Editor-in-Chief of Black Black Ink, tagged lined in Ink. “And students loved it bethe first issue as the cause it was something that “Voice of Liberation”, fulwas ours, our voice.” filled one of the 22 deAnd the hard hitting news mands of the Black Studid not stop there. In the secdent Movement. ond issue, Bruce Sampson, the The first issue of Editor-in-Chief from 1970-1971, Black Ink made its début featured an editorial piece, an on campus on November ode the new black freshman on 1969. “If at all possible the campus: BSM‟s new newspaper “To the Black Freshman… would be printed black You are in one of the largest, letters on black backbest equipped, highest rated Black Ink, 1974 ground. However, one universities in the United States. must be realistic. The idea You are also a student in one of the of blackness is great, but technically the more racist institutions in America. It concept is not adaptable to printing. Therefore the best thought, and one with is here brothers and sisters that you will better reasoning, would be a black ink learn just how black you are… Feeling black means… The guys in your suite don‟t expressing black ideas.” ask you to go out and get drunk cause The first their momma issue was merely done told them four pages of how a „nigger‟ solid text with acts when he the headline gets drunk. The streamer girls on your hall “Malcolm X Uare scared to go New Light for in the bathroom Oppressed Peocause you ple” written by might‟a left Lean Searchlight. syphilis on the Lean Searchlight toilet seat… Bewas a pseudoing the only Black Ink, February 1981 nym for the fear Black Ink, April 1982
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40 Years and Still Alive and Kickin’ brother in a class of two hundred and fifty one… Going to a Friday night party and not having anyone to talk to afterward.” Editorials from this perspective and of this magnitude were not found in other publications on campus. The Daily Tar Heel and the
Carolina Review did not
have the bitter yet truthful articles like that of Black Ink. Not just an outlet to “stick it to the man,” Black Ink was the source of first Black Ink, December 1998 hand news for the Black Community highlighting Black History week, the crowing of Mr. and Miss BSM, the opening of the Upendo, Nikki Giovanni‟s new poems, and burning issues within the black community on UNC‟s campus and abroad. In the 1970s and early 1980s Black Ink released an issue at least once a week. And in the early 1990s, with the decline of news worthy stories and dedicated writers, Black Ink made the transition from a newspaper to a magazine. But somewhere along the way Black Ink has lost its touch on campus. “All I know about Black Ink is that it‟s a black publication,” said, senior Communications
major Jordan Mason. In the late 2000‟s Black Ink declined but there‟s still hope on the horizon. “I hope Black Ink continues to challenge injustice,” said Cureton JohnBlack Ink, January 1980 son. “I hope that it will always be the champ of all people exhibiting fairness and integrity. No hard language, we have enough of that today. Take a reasonable and logical approach. Continue to be the support.” This year Kirstin Garriss, junior Journalism & Mass Communications major, takes the reins as the Editor- in-Chief of Black Ink Magazine. With the new year arrives new staff members and a whole new outlook on Black Ink. “I want Black Ink to be voice of students, not just black students, not just those apart of BSM, but Carolina students,” said Garriss. “Black Ink represents more than just protests and what it feels like to be black. But rather represents the present and where we want to be in the future. My goal as the editor is to show that 40 years later the magazine can be as strong as it was in 1969 and to still have the same meaning.” - Charnelle Wilson
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Editor to Editor
In 1969, Cureton Johnson and BSM founded a publication dedicated to their voices, their concerns and their radical ideals—the Black Ink. 40 years later, the Black Ink is still a publication dedicated to revolutionary media and in celebration of it’s 40th anniversary, I had a talk with Johnson about his experiences as the first Editor-in-Chief the Black Ink. Kirstin Garriss: How long were you Editor-inChief of the Black Ink? Cureton Johnson: I believe it was my junior year...to be honest it could have been my sophomore or junior year. And I was the editor, for one year because they took the funding. We only put out two issues the original issues...and after two issues they took the money. KG: And why did you lose the funding? CJ: Well I mean the Black Student Movement back then was involved in the Food Workers strike, King had died in „68, Abertnay had come on campus, students were coming from Duke [for rallies and protests]. And the newspaper pretty much reflected the validity of the times and the urgent need for change that we felt and it could be somewhat disrespectful. I mean we didn't worry about whether it was the Chancellor or whoever it was at the time. So our articles we kind of hard hitting but it was a small paper and I think it was only four pages. And we weren‟t the most professional, in fact, I was the staff on the first issue pretty much they just said look
it‟s yours. And then as the second issue, two or three students said look we‟ll help you out. [And] by the time we were getting geared up, then we were out of business. KG: Whose idea or concept was it to create the Black Ink? CJ: It was the organ of the Black Student Movement officially. But they (BSM) knew I was in journalism or headed that way so you know they look around and they‟re looking for something, for someone else to do something else. So they kind of match you up...and I have to admit I was kind of flying by the seat of my pants, you know, they just said go do it. KG: What were some of the reactions you received from the student body about black ink? CJ: Well the students loved it because it was so great. It was something that was ours and it was our voice. And I think just being able to see that and name Black Student Movement scrolled across the top as the banner and you know the first issue came out and oh it was hot item! They were thrilled about it...and we took
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issues over to Carrboro because part of the plan was to talk about student concerns, what we were dealing with and all that. And then we wanted to distribute in Carrboro so they would know what the black students were doing because we were always trying to establish relationship between community. But the paper was well received among the students. It just gave ya a sense of somebody and we knew it had a long way to go but look how it‟s evolved. That‟s one of thrilling things for me is to look and see how you all have just made it a publication far beyond what we imagined. KG: What expectations did you have for yourself as the first editor and/or for the Black Ink itself? CJ: To get it out! And the real expectation was to try to have relevant articles and to get student writers involved and to express the feelings of the students that were dealing with. Even down to the athletes. You know we had the athletes who wanted to have a voice but they‟re scared to have a voice but we could actually say some things in the Black Ink that wouldn‟t be said in The [Daily] Tar Heel and might help them without quoting them. Another aim of the paper was a support group, the paper is the voice of the support group for the African American students on campus and we needed that. KG: As the Black Ink enters its 40th year of existence, what expectations to you have for the publication? What expectations do you have for me as its current editor? CJ: I would always hope that the Black Ink would challenge injustice, now that‟s just me. I would hope that it would always be the champion of all people, of fairness, and integrity. And 40 years of transforming black ideals into words and pictures. First Black Ink Editor, Cureton Johnson ‘71 and current Editor, Kirstin Garriss ‘11.
continue to be the support on campus for one another, champion the needs of the students. Just tell the truth, the best you can and be fair about it. KG: How do you feel about Black Ink reaching 40 years? CJ: I am really amazed. Amazed that the same paper with the same name exists today. I never would have thought. I never would have thought. If we had been refunded that year, I would have worked to start back up and I don‟t know there have probably been other lapses in publication because of funding along the way or for whatever reasons. But the fact that its been able to continue. KG: And do you have any advice for me or my staff as we enter the 40th year? CJ: I would say that you have to kind of set and analyze where you are, where the black students are and where the campus is, what the issues are. And if you like publishing, then you‟re going to be with this for a long time. So enjoy it and then hone your craft. But be creative and enjoy the ride! - Kirstin Garriss, Editor-in-Chief
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Is BSM still RELEVANT? The Black Student Movement (BSM) was founded on November 7, 1967, and since then has developed into becoming one of the most prosperous and diverse campus organizations for over 40 years. In an attempt to make a distinct impact on campus, a small group of black students came together to create an opportunity for other black students to express themselves and essentially manifest their own voice of leadership. In present day, the BSM is still existent as an integral part of diverse campus interaction. An assortment of UNC students from various races, genders, and age groups were asked: What is your opinion of the Black Student Movement and do you believe its purpose is still relevant in today’s world? - Briana Harper “The Black Student movement is still relevant for today because it provides minorities an opportunity to express themselves, and it appears to be an outlet in which students can address the issues from the past while improving aspects of their current lives.” ~Colin Hodges, first year, Snow Hill, NC
the many issues some people have to face on the daily basis. The Black Student Movement is a great addition to campus because it is a cultural group in which many people can identify with, and this is especially important in the college atmosphere.” ~Dida ElSourady, senior, Chapel Hill, NC
“Race issues are still a concern in a “It seems as different way “Yes, The Black Student though race is a than it was in Movement is very relemore prominent vant regardless of the issue here in the the past, but time frame. I believe mi- south than it is up it [race] is nority groups are an imnorth. The fact still relevant. portant part of campus, that UNC-Chapel Minority which is why I wish we Hill is essentially a groups such had more organizations southern campus such as these because makes The Black as The Black they model a good examStudent MoveStudent ple of unity.” ~Henry ment an even Movement Gonzalez, junior, more relevant orare essential Bay Shore, NY ganization by proas long as viding a opportunity to discuss racial issues and they don’t aim to exclude eventually unify certain groups but instead integrate while breaking racial barriers.” themselves to make cam~Porshia Underwood, pus more diverse.” sophomore, Asheville, NC ~Christina Serrano, “In my opinion all culjunior, Raleigh, NC tural groups are an “A lot of people don’t realize the extent of racism that is still present in today’s world as well as
important part of campus including The Black Student Move-
ment because it still has relevancy in addressing certain issues that affect students today and its existence compliments campus diversity.” ~ Diva Desai, junior, Cary, NC “People tend to clique with those who are like them. The Black Student Movement provides an opportunity for students with similar traditions, ethnicities, and backgrounds to come together, relate and make a positive impact.” ~Tierra Simmons, first year, Lillington, NC
“I think The Black Student Movement is an important and relevant part of UNC-Chapel Hill, but in my personal opinion I would like to become more aware of the types of things that they do to improve campus as a whole.” ~Marshall Griffin, sophomore, Williamston, NC
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FACE OFF <—> FACE OFF In the fall of 2008, Editor and writer for the Carolina Review, Bryan Weynand, came to a BSM meeting to discuss his article about BSM‟s relevance at UNC. Weynand believed that the BSM was no longer relevant on campus. In the February 2009 issue of Carolina Review, Weynand wrote “Making Demands – Civil Rights Movement evolves from seeking equality to self-interest”, which mentioned his experience at that BSM meeting. After reading the article, the Black Ink wanted to readdress this issue of BSM‟s relevance and respond to Weynand‟s article. In this section, you‟ll read Bryan‟s original article, a response from our staff and a new response from Bryan Weynand. Enjoy the FACE OFF! “Making Demands – Civil Rights
Movement evolves from seeking equality to self-interest” February 2009, Carolina Review
Last fall I had the opportunity for the first time to visit the beaming new facility on South Campus, the Student Academic Services Building, in particular the spacious new location of the Upendo lounge, the official meeting place of the Black Student Movement. It is an impressive and inspiring room, expansive, fully technologically equipped, with a back wall graced by blowup prints of newspaper clips chronicling the historical lounge, including its days in Chase Hall, and up to the present in SASB. When I arrived, a member of the BSM stood in front of the display, apparently explaining to a new member the story of their fight through the civil rights movement that culminated in the acquisition of this room. In all sincerity, it was an awe-inspiring scene, the kind of which great movies are made. The thought that immediately occurred to me, however, was that there was no objective reason why such a lounge should exist, especially at a public university. The problematic conclusion which follows, of course, is that only through blatant subjectivity can one arrive at the justification of the Upendo lounge. I have written before that the modern civil rights movement breaks with that led by Martin Luther King, Jr. in that it sets no end goal, but rather perpetuates itself into eternity; if the fight was really about equality, then civil rights would one day cease to be a political issue, at least in the sense in which we conceive of it today.
The fight is not about equality, however, and that is evidenced by the fact that equality is in practicality no longer what blacks seek. Equality of opportunity was reached, and instead of pursuing approaches that seized that opportunity to achieve total equality, the movement pushed headlong past their goal into an entirely different motive: in the words of the BSM itself, they sought to be “distinct.” It is a nearly humorous paradox that after a century spent defeating all remnants of legal segregation the blacks of BSM advocate to have it given back. Such a peculiar turn of events could only arise after solving all of those legal inequalities, and after discovering that there were no more battles to wage against oppression, refusing to declare the movement complete, and thus refusing to now move toward a color-blind society. That is what the Upendo lounge represents, and that is what it means that the modern civil rights movement no longer seeks equality. The University of North Carolina built for its black students a separate meeting space where they could convene apart from the rest of the student body. The spirit behind the action was radically different, but the result is the same as it was when schools, trains, buses, and just about everything else were segregated through the middle of the 20th century. Distinct in the context in which the BSM uses it essentially means segregated, except in this case it is a mindset they have embraced themselves rather then had imposed on them by others. They choose this because they
claim it reflects reality, but contemplating our progress I cannot help but think that perhaps they choose it for some ulterior reason. It is incredible to suggest that such a choice is what Dr. King had in mind. Perhaps the answer can be found in the principle established earlier, that blacks no longer fight for equality; if equality was still an object in need of securing, it is reasonable to assume it would still be the object of the civil rights movement. If equality, however, is achieved, then the movement then faces a choice: to end the movement, or to find something else for which to fight. They chose the latter, and in consequence demonstrated that their movement has evolved from being about equality to being about the struggle itself. Without the struggle, there is no claim of victimization, and without that claim, there is no pride in having overcome it, and there is no beautiful, expansive Upendo lounge. That at least is the logic the culture of the BSM presents. The scene in front of me was awe-inspiring because human nature loves the triumph of the victim over their struggle. The Upendo lounge was that triumph, and it was owed to the BSM as a trophy of that victory. The pride in the acquisition of that room was evident in the conversations around me. That is what struck me as wrong. Not their pride, nor their triumph, which have merit; but that their pride had carried them past the victory of their struggle, equality, and one step further – into self-interest, and segregation. - Bryan Weynand
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Black Ink’s Response The Audacity of Ignorance
Weynand‟s experiences leave him incognizant to the experiences of others.
Upon reading the article fea-
Emergence of Black Movement
Quoting from Weynand‟s article, tured in Carolina Review, “…[t] he modern civil right movement breaks with Making Demands – Civil the movement led by Martin Luther King, Jr. in that Rights Movement evolves from seeking equality to self- it sets no end goal…if the fight is really about equality then civil rights would one day cease to be a pointerest, written by Bryan Weynand - I felt it warranted litical issue…equality is no longer what blacks seek” a response. This illegitimate (Weynand, Making Demands). Firstly, any American who has even the rant posed by Weynand has slightest fragment of political awareness has given me the incredible opgrasped that civil rights, for Blacks, is no longer a portunity to address his limited perception of the political issue. It is here that Weynand confuses the struggle, triumph, and role of Black America. Civil Rights Movement with the various Black moveIt is unfortunate that Weynand, and others ments that were birthed from the Civil who feel as he does, fail to grasp Dr. Rights Movement. While the Civil Martin Luther King Jr‟s actual dream. Rights Movement dealt heavily with “A Anyone who truly followed the ideology the legislative and social inequality of and life of Dr. King knows that he did man will never Blacks; the Black movement focused not fight for legal equality alone but for directly upon embracement and a complete transformation of Ameriunderstand a more affirmation of the Black “self”. These can society. Dr. King‟s goal was not successive movements are not identiman’s only to eliminate the legal inequality cal nor should they be; the concerns but social inequality, along with the oppression.” and needs of the constituents have social perceptions of Blacks as an inchanged. Furthermore, King also ferior race. He learned through his acfought for the ability for Blacks to tivism that civil rights legislation does not ensure social acceptance. His revelation is now stand tall rather than be subjected, and in turn subject themselves, to a socially constructed inferiority. formally known as Critical Race Theory, and suggests that the language of rights cannot account for Dr. King‟s last speech entitled, “Where do we go from here?” presents ideals that clearly contradict the way in which oppression is manifested in real Weynand‟s statements. In the words of Dr. King life. himself, For example, a law can be made to ensure a “Psychological freedom…is the most powercitizen his or her right to vote, but it has, thus far, ful weapon against the long night of physical slavbeen impossible to provide a social climate that ery. No Lincolnian Emancipation Proclamation or equally ensures this right. As a Black student I am Johnsonian Civil Rights Bill can totally bring this overtly reminded every day of my blackness, but kind of freedom. The Negro will only be free when your whiteness—the standard to which my blackhe reaches down to the inner depths of his own beness is compared — is rarely addressed, suggests ing and signs with the pen and ink of assertive manthat the social transformation that King dreamed has not yet been achieved. A White man will never hood his own Emancipation Proclamation. Yes, we must stand up and say, „I'm black and I'm beautiful,‟ understand a Black man‟s oppression. What I find and this self-affirmation is the black man's need, unfortunate is that Weynand refuses to respect it. As a White, conservative, male, who has historically made compelling by the white man's crimes against him “(King, “Where do we go from here). been the oppressor rather than the oppressed,
White
Black
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Black Ink’s Response However, the Black Student Continue from pg. 10 Movement not suggest segregation, In this statement, Dr. King “The BSM attained we welcomedoes any and all into our moveputs no expiration date on the strugment. This accusation seems odd contheir rights to the gle of Blacks. If you are a part of the congregation of White stuAmerican society you are incapable of Upendo Lounge sidering dents here at Chapel Hill has yet to be perceiving race objectively. As a solike everything else met with the same scrutiny. Furthermore, cially constructed concept, used to the Upendo Lounge is not exclusively alin this country define groups of people most often located to the BSM and can be reserved by visual traits, “race” has been a by anyone upon contacting the SASB Inpart of each of us since our birth. formation Desk Assistant, Beverly Evans. With that said, it is also through I find the “humorous paradox”, to which “blatant subjectivity” that all ethniWeynand refers, much more in his procally based movements or groups posal that the attainment of one, 60‟ by 20‟ lounge, exist. Due to the deep-rooted nature of racism in out of the 275+ buildings here on UNC‟s campus, now America, King recognized that only through constant transforms BSM into a “selfish” black community. The Black Student Movement attained their rights to the self-affirmation could Blacks achieve the freedom Upendo Lounge like everything else in this country - we and success for which they hoped. Thus the Civil Rights Movement gave birth to the Black Movement fought for it. Weynand‟s poorly supported accusations of self-segregation seem much more like a mewling and it was through this movement that organizatirade in order to impose yet another flaw on the part tions such as the Black Student Movement (BSM) of the Black Movement. were formed at academic institutions throughout Weynand‟s unenlightened attempt to denigrate the nation entails. the Black Student Movement, on the basis of clearly We exist to empower one another and to flawed research and his attendance to one meeting, help remove the system of oppression that is often only makes it apparent why the movement must exist. embedded in each of us. Finally, as our Preamble From the words of famous philosopher Paulo Freire, states, we exist to “embrace a culture distinct from “[t]he true focus of revolutionary change is never that found at the University of North Carolina at merely the oppressive situations that we seek to esChapel Hill.” Thus as is the tendency of our people, cape, but that piece of the oppressor that is planted we the Black Student Movement at the University of deep within each of us.” We exist to enlighten people, North Carolina at Chapel Hill will press on, continu- like Weynand, who intend to prematurely end a struging to enlighten, empower, and embrace, following gle because they are ignorant to what it truly entails. the greats that preceded us—never losing sight of We exist to empower one another and to help remove our goal. the system of oppression that is often embedded in each of us. Finally, as our Preamble states, we exist to “embrace a culture distinct from that found at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.” Thus as is the tendency of our people, we the Black Student MoveWeynand‟s statement that the Upendo Lounge ment at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill represents the refusal of the Black community at UNC- will press on, continuing to enlighten, empower, and Chapel Hill to move toward a color-blind society, bears embrace, following the greats that preceded us—never some truth. Racial blindness presents no positive con- losing sight of our goal. notation and has never been the goal of the Black Movement nor the Civil Rights Movement. We are not - Brittany Johnson, Black Ink ashamed of who we are; we want our color to be seen. Now, more than ever, with freedom that was so remarkably attained, we have the ability to celebrate a culture that has so often been abated.
we fought for it.”
60‟ by 20‟ Lounge = 40 acres and a mule?
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Carolina Review’s Response would exist so adamantly embracing an attitude of distinctiveness and racial solidarity. as editor of the Carolina ReHaving a better understanding of BSM, I view, I have published two now realize that there is nothing intentional about articles on the Black Student the racist implications of their perspective; they do Movement, both of which not see themselves as active segregationists, nor are have put me on the defensive they consciously acting in any way that would implifor so overtly attacking the cate them as such. mission of another student Thomas Paine wrote in Common Sense that group. Much of this criticism “A long habit of not thinking a thing wrong gives it came in the form of letters to a superficial appearance of being right.” It is the attithe Daily Tar Heel, and tude portrayed in this manner that reveals the deep much of it came during my irrelevance of their mission. experience speaking at a It isn‟t surprising that so many black students BSM meeting last fall. would join the BSM; it is unfortunate it takes place That experience was one of the more rewardwith so little critical thought. Status as a minority ing ones of my college career; it forced me to articudoes not free them from criticism, and an easy exlate my thoughts in the face of harsh and personal amination shows that BSM is irrelevant in our modcriticism, but more importantly it ern campus community in much the presented me the opportunity to in“...the nature of their same way YWC is thought to be. teract with individuals from the The similarities are stunning: mission is BSM and work toward a solution insistence that identity be drawn regarding their mission, role, and from a particular racial culture counterproductive relevance to the campus commuto what ought to be (though YWC is truthfully not about nity. race), promotion of nationalism Though the interaction I our goal for race based on race and revolution. The have had with BSM has been honrelations at UNC.” real difference is that BSM advoest and productive, I remain concates loudly for segregation and ravinced that the nature of their miscial special interest; their demands sion is counterproductive to what ought to be our call for dividing the student population into two, goal for race relations at UNC. That the BSM is ofblack and nonblack. Their Upendo Lounge is the ten shielded from such criticism because of their only meeting space of its kind for any group, race status as a minority group underscores the imporbased or not. For the BSM to effectively align with tance of my point, and being eternally on the defenour modern values, it needs to publicly renounce its sive, I am obligated to continually explain. previous demands for segregation and surrender The question posed to me – whether BSM their call for and receipt of special treatment. remains relevant in the campus community – is a The BSM unconsciously demonstrates a culdifficult one to answer clearly. On the one hand, ture of struggle for self-interest. When you fight for BSM is one of the largest and most influential orwhat you deserve, you are admirable, but when you ganizations at UNC; on the other the perspective fight for special treatment you think you deserve, embodied by their mission is anachronistic to the you are most definitely irrelevant. vision I hope we now share for society, one of equality and cohesive integration. It is comically - Bryan Weynand, Carolina Review ironic that in a campus culture priding itself on trivial events such as “Mix It Up Day” that a group
In the past two years
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An ImPACtful Statement BSM affectionately hailed “BSM Week” from September 26th – October 3rd and arguably the most impressive of the week‟s events was BSM Pride Day. So much so that a reporter from the Carolina Review, presumably attracted by the red, black, and green logo on the vast amount of t-shirts, made his way to the center of the pit to speak with the president about some of the BSM‟s aims. He was particularly concerned with the quotation on the back of the shirts reading: “No force on Earth can stop the forward march of a determined conscious, organized, vigilant and united people,”, and the image of a raised fist just below the words of Maurice Bishop. The message appeared to him to be representative of militancy and isolation. This comes as no surprise to us. The reporter‟s perceptions are not unique; the BSM is consistently criticized by various campus organizations that challenge its purpose and relevance. To those that share the opinions of that reporter, the Political Action Committee (PAC) maintains that BSM is unequivocally still viable and essential for the following reasons: The BSM offers ALL students a medium for dialogue on the “black experience” – an experience which is in itself diverse, yet interconnected. Whether or not individuals choose to acknowledge this notion, there is something particularly distinct about being black in this country and on this campus. In view of that fact, the BSM is deserving of space and recognition as much as the College Republicans, or any other campus organization that seeks to represent a particular perspective. The existence of opposition to resources for black students (recall the Carolina Review‟s attack of the AFAM department) or else ignorance about black culture (for instance in the form of The Daily Tar Heel‟s coverage of “African American English (AAE)”) necessitates the existence of the BSM. Regardless of whether we are, as a black community, on a level playing field (with respect to resources, opportunity, education, etc.) with our white counterparts, there is a need for an organization that ensures that the progress made for us and for generations to follow is maintained so that the achievements of our predecessors were not in vain, and further so that history does not repeat itself. In spite of the view of BSM an organization seeking to polarize the campus community, PAC would like to assert that our powerful student group is an INCLUSIVE space that welcomes and boasts the collaboration of people of many races and ethnicities. Together, we champion the unifying aim of educating ourselves and the campus at large; celebrating our culture and honoring our heritage; and promoting equality and respect --all of which justify our
REVOLUTION. - Ellen Louis & Bianca Bell, PAC co-chairs
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The transition from high school to college is one unlike most of you have ever experienced. As first-year students, most of you come from homes with your own rooms, constant adult supervision, and relatively controlled finances. Now, you’ve been cast into this place where you have less personal space, much more personal freedom, and growing financial responsibility. With this newfound freedom, many of you will inevitably make mistakes. Don’t worry, this is normal. The important thing is that you are aware of common mistakes and ways to prevent them or handle them in a better way. The most popular problems that first-year students deal with are, having roommate drama, gaining the infamous “freshman 15”, partying too much, “hooking up” and its effects on reputation, and managing finances. Here are some tips when handling the aforementioned situations:
Roommates Do communicate. Your roommate won’t know that something is bothering you unless you tell him or her. Don’t immediately judge your roommate. If you remain optimistic about how you two will get along it will be much easier to live together. Do clean up after yourself. You don’t have to be a neat freak but no one wants a sloppy roommate. Don’t be inconsiderate. Respect your roommate’s space. Do not play loud music if your roommate is sleeping or attempting to study. Do share. Talk to your roommate about what items can be shared and what items are off-limits. Don’t expect to be best friends. Respecting each other and getting along is a more realistic goal.
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Partying Do party. Partying isn’t bad in moderation. Don’t leave with perfect strangers. It’s important that you leave the party with the people you came with. Do make lots of friends. Parties are a great place to meet and get to know people. Don’t drink to excess and participate in totally unacceptable behavior. Do keep school first. Parties are fun but if you neglect your schoolwork you won’t be able to enjoy them for very long if you fail your classes.
The Freshman 15 Everyone has been warned about the “Freshman 15.” In order to prevent weight gain in your first year here at Carolina it is important that you stay active. It‟s easier than you think, just make a few simple changes: Walk to class a few times a week instead of riding the bus Walk up the stairs instead of using the escalator/elevator When eating in the dining hall avoid fried foods. Take advantage of healthy options like the salad bar or vegetarian section. Drink water or milk instead of soda or juice Limit visits to vending machines
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Continued from pg. 14
Financial Issues Times are tough. Everyone is pinching their pennies, college students included. It‟s easy to spend money quickly and thoughtlessly here at Carolina. Here are a few tips to help you spend your money wisely: Utilize your meal plan. If you have meals in the dining hall that are already paid for, use them and eat out less. Avoid credit card debt. Reserve credit cards for absolute emergencies. Go to events on campus that offer FREE FOOD. Not only will you save money, but you‟ll also be introduced to new people and groups on campus. Go to free parties and events on campus. The price of admission to a bar or a club can take a toll on your wallet.
Hooking Up Every year there are a few first-year students who ruin their reputations because of activities done behind closed doors in various dorm rooms. Your reputation isn‟t the only thing that can be hurt by multiple casual hook-ups, you can also harm your body. So here are some tips to have fun with the opposite sex safely, without ruining your rep on campus: Beware of the “booty call”. Late night texts and calls may not be as innocent as they seem. Wrap it up. Always protect yourself from STDs, STIs, and unwanted pregnancies by using condoms and other contraceptives. Ask. We‟ve all seen the “Real men ask first,” signs on the buses. Don‟t be a groupie. Don‟t constantly follow groups of people on campus. Avoid the walk of shame. After sleeping over in your significant other‟s dorm room, do not walk out with your hair uncombed, makeup smeared, and clothes inside out. People will know what you‟ve been up to. Know when to lay low. After a particularly scandalous weekend or event, stay out of the spotlight for a bit. - Averi Harper
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In addition to the advice you’ve already received, you now need the low-down on how to actually succeed and make the most out of your academic career here at Carolina from the perspective of an upperclassmen. Sure you came in with your AP credits, Valedictorian status, and a spirit of readiness to over-achieve at Carolina just like high school, however it won’t just be a walk in the park. I’ve come from having a life structured by the hour to having the freedom to control every minute of my life. So how do you take advantage of your resources and you might even ask how to take full advantage of yourself as a resource. Academic Services Most upperclassmen will tell you that they were guilty of coming here to Chapel Hill and thinking that they could do it all on their own. South Campus has the Writing center, and the Learning center as all inside of one of the Student Academic Services Buildings; where the other building has a computer lab and lounge area. On North Campus there is peer tutoring in Dey Hall and various seminars held throughout the year in the Union. (Sometimes it’s as simple as looking at flyers SASB North Building stabbed on cork boards to find http://sasb.unc.edu/ out where study sessions take place or when the next seminar of your choice will be.) Grades I also HIGHLY recommend attending office hours with and keeping in contact with them. Sometimes that can make
the difference in a grade you receive, though I’m not saying your grade can jump from a D+ to an A-, but it could make all the difference between a C+ and a B-! There is generally a positive correlation between students who attend class and those who score higher on exams; be that student! Time Management: If you haven’t discovered it on your own yet, I can’t stress how important time management is in college. There are occasionally workshops on campus that tackle time management, how to study more effectively for select topics, how to prepare for graduate school or medical school; virtually all the knowledge that you need to succeed is out there and readily available. I believe the biggest hidden resource is surrounding you. It’s the upperclassman that you carry on simple conversations with everyday; we know good professors, we know great classes to take. Ask us! It’s been said that history repeats itself, but why make the same mistakes we made when you can just make your own… kidding, when you don’t have to suffer through making that mistake at all. So if this was at all, hard to digest remember these things: know your resources, use your resources, and become a resource (don’t be stingy and keep all that knowledge to yourself)! If we implement these three things, we can become a force, a force that eats, sleeps and breathes success at Carolina; becoming more than individual black letters on a page but a sequence of words that create the stories of Black Ink. - Ashley Thompson
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In these tough economic times, money is hard to hold on to and even harder to come by. Thinking about how to make the most out of my monthly budget, I decided to make a make a trip to the pit and ask students the question: “How do you save money while on campus?” - Jessica Jones
Chad Manhertz, Sophomore Major: Education Hometown: Durham, NC “I work to get paid and then I spend the money I make from working, but I don‟t spend all of it.”
Harriet Zych, Senior Major: Nursing Hometown: London, England “I try to eat out a bit less, cooking meals at home, looking for good deals around, and buying less luxury items.”
“I bring food from home for lunch some days… [and] I bike to campus.” Callie Pottinger, Senior, Major: Journalism, Hometown: Atlanta, GA Roy Ellis, First-year Major: Business Hometown: Fayetteville, NC “Well I got a job and I have a checking account and a savings account so I try to keep up with them both.”
Stephanie Waaser, Junior Major: Biology Hometown: Raleigh, NC “Well I‟m living off campus this year so I have a MVP card from Food Lion and a VIC card from Harris Teeter, I cook every once in a while, I try to spend less money on food, and I got in a cheaper [apartment] complex.”
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At UNC, the race for Homecoming Queen and King might be a little different than expected. For years, African American candidates have made their presence known as candidates despite the fact that only 11% of the entire campus population identifies as African American, according to the Princeton Review. The great significance of Homecoming races at historically black colleges and universities might shed light on the constant attraction of African Americans to the application process for Homecoming royalty. As a part of each person’s campaign, UNC requires that all interested candidates run with a service project they would like to implement if deemed winner. UNC prides itself with selecting candidates based on their projected service projects, not their popularity or ability to be the face of the university. The emphasis of a service project often serves as a spring board for many Mr. & Ms. BSM winners to reach a broader campus with their ideas. As former Ms. BSM Eboni Blake explains her decision to apply for the Homecoming race http://www.andersonsevents.com/images/Gqks3.jpg last year she said, “it was about using that [Homecoming] as a means to draw attention to my service project, I wanted to use UNC as a pillar to some of the initiatives in the community.” The winners of Mr. & Ms. BSM traditionally go on to run for Homecoming Queen & King, and often times end up the winners.
Last year things went a bit differently than expected.
The two candidates who won were not associated with the BSM and did not identify as African American. Although two VERY well qualified and deserving candidates, their win broke away from the trend of at least one African American winning a title. The fight for African American representation in the Homecoming court has not always been an easy battle at UNC. UNC Homecoming Queens made national news in a 1994 Jet Magazine article revealing the racism African American candidates Tips for future Ms. BSM and/or Home- faced from students, including an incident involving tire coming Queen Contestants from Kennetra slashing. One candidate found a threatening note on her car stating: “We will not have another nigger queen”. and Eboni This year the BSM has both the attention of cam“Target the less known organizations to gain support.” pus and manpower needed to help propel one of the many -Kennetra Irby interested African American candidates into a winning position. However, we need to GET OUT and VOTE. Over 5 “Be authentic, be energetic an own Carolina and what African American women expressed interest in running for that means.” -Eboni Blake Homecoming queen. The return of African American royalty in Mr. & Miss UNC looks promising. “If you don’t love Carolina, don’t run.” - Amber Clifford -Kennetra Irby “Communicate your story in a way that is contagious to who you are and makes people want to be attached to what you are doing.” -Eboni Blake
*Kennetra Irby was the only African-American woman on the 2008 Homecoming ballot last year and Eboni Blake was Miss BSM 2008. *For more information on the Jet Magazine article refer to http:// www.encyclopedia.com/doc/1G1-15913722.html
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To wear a classic “little black dress” or to draw all eyes with a pop of color? While preparing for the 2009 BSM Coronation Ball, those questions ran through the minds of those who literally came dressed to impress. Though preparation came with a little stress, a few re-occurring themes popped up as it truly was a red carpet affair within the halls of the Carolina Inn on October 3rd. Keeping it Classic Both Brittany Nichols, a senior chemistry major from Gibsonville, and Tia Davis, a first-year from Virginia Beach, went back to black. Nichols put a vintage-designer twist on her ensemble and purchased her dress from Clothing Warehouse on Franklin Street. She also used gold accessories to add the right level of sophistication to her outfit. Davis on the other hand referred to her handy, dandy “LBD” (little black dress) as her safe bet, instead of her initial purple choice. Work With What You‟ve Got As a college student in these rough economic times, several students like Sola Ajewole, a sophomore biology major from Charlotte, These ladies proved that “going green” doesn‟t utilized their resources. Ajewole struck luck again by wearing a dress just mean being eco-friendly! that she already had hidden in her closet from high school. Wearing what you have and switching up anything from accessories to a hairstyle, can add revitalization, plus it‟s much easier on your wallet! Just make sure that same outfit isn‟t your current profile picture… BSM President B’anca Glenn making a grand entrance with date Stephen Crawford.
Leave Them “Envious” But everybody who‟s anyone (including myself) made others envious in GREEN! It seemed like green was competing for the title to become the new black at the ball. Was everyone in green trying to submit a subliminal message by relating his or her style to how the economy should be? Or did several just coincidentally go green like the environmental movement? I guess we‟ll never know. But BSM President B‟anca Glenn said she decided on her stunning, well-fitted, one-shoulder green dress, “not necessarily because it was green, but because it caught my eye in the window.” Royal Style Krista Stepeny and Lorenzo Hopper were crowned Miss and Mr. BSM 2009, and they‟re attire fit their royal titles perfectly. While Hopper wore a classic black Eddie Domani suit from Men‟s One Fashion, he was a gentleman and decided on his turquoise shirt in order to match his escort. Stepney Though my date Brandon Blackmon didn‟t turned heads in her pink/coral-colored dress from exactly know what “dark sea-foam green” Belk‟s and said, “I decided to wear this dress bewas, we still pulled off our pairing. Seniors Brandon Carter and cause I wanted something cocktail style, and the color Nicole Wyche were dates and was very vibrant and looked radiant against my skin tone.” matched “perfectly in purple” the Fall „09 season‟s go-to - Perrine DeShield color.
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Following weeks of rigorous planning, selective shopping, and heavy campaigning everything came down to the night of October 3, 2009 when the BSM court was announced. Elation filled the faces of Lorenzo Hopper and Krista Stepney when they were crowned Mr. and Miss BSM 2009 immediately followed by cheers and con-
a “big buddy” type of program that will allow underclassmen students to have mentor of sorts to help them find themselves. He wants to ease the identity crisis that many students experience during their undergraduate years. Mr. and Miss BSM both have committed to using their newly acquired titles to not only serve as a driving force for their own plans, but to be an example to other UNC students.
Miss Sophomore, Camile Jones
“Whatever people need, I’m here. Definitely a resource” 2009 Miss and Mr. BSM, Stepney proudly stated when asked about her gratulations filling the air. endeavors for this year. In addition, Hopper Both students plan on running for Home- plans on not only being title-worthy but an excoming court this year and putting their comemplary representative of the BSM and “show munity service plans into action. Stepney’s com- what the BSM is about. Show how inclusive we munity service plan is to implement her proare and how spread out in the community we gram “Education are.” Toolbox” This Mr. and Miss BSM were not the only program will col- given a title that night. Heather Elbeck and lect donations for Stanley Allen were crowned Mr. and Miss Juna set number of ior; Camile Jones and Chad Manhertz, Mr. and weeks and preMiss Sophomore, and finally, Alexis Davis and sent these dona- Cameron Johnson Mr. and Miss Freshman. tions, along with - Sola Ajewole an enrichment exercise, to under -privileged after school programs in the surrounding areas. In addition to that, Hopper plans on creating
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Photography by: John Daniels
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A Dream Preferred: A White Man's Ode to Black Culture There comes a point in every white man’s life when he wishes he were black. It’s inevitable. Whether it’s following Obama’s historic presidential victory (MSNBC, anyone?), admiring an outfit that only Andre 3000 could pull off, or watching a movie in which Samuel L. Jackson plays the quintessential badass, it’s an understatement to say white people feel a little left out. We desperately want to be a part of black culture, yet our attempts have been less than successful. I’ll be the first to admit that trying to adopt the phrase “foshizzle” or trying to rap along to the latest T.I. record isn’t the best way to go. Our efforts have been mocked— hilariously—by the likes of Dave Chappelle, Chris Rock, and even Chef from South Park. The fact is that white people are misunderstood. We want to have something to fight for, to stand up for the minority. We’ve been the majority our entire lives, and we’re constantly searching for a new cause to fight for, a new movement to launch, an underdog to root for. Whether it be recycling, banning smoking, or taking down the evil villain that is trans fat, I can’t say I’m too
proud of the battles we’ve chosen to fight. It will indeed be a sad day in white history when fighting against global warming becomes our Civil Rights Movement, when Al Gore becomes our Malcolm X. However, all of our past causes are just a mask, for white people are using these other, lesser causes to hide our true desire—our desire to be apart of black culture. We felt chills when listening to MLK’s “I Have a Dream” speech, we mourned the deaths of Biggie Smalls and Tupac Shakur, and we loved every second of Barack Obama’s victory. We have neglected our urge to unite with our fellow Americans for too long. Thus, I am using this article to officially say what many of my fellow Caucasians have been too scared to say for themselves—we want you to accept us. So, members of the Black Student Movement, I urge you to invite your Caucasian friends to join one of the many African American organizations on campus; not because it would make it less awkward for me (though it would be nice…), but because they truly want to be a part of something as influential and powerful as the Black Student Movement.
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Diversity has recently engaged in battle with anEasy. Natural. Grandma. other abstract noun, comfort. Historically, diversity is a Most of the interviews I conducted resulted in high fresh concept. It’s Megan Fox if you will. Diversity is sexy, praises for diversity. Not even mixed but high. I chose to eye-catching and highly desired. Megan Fox is a real per- interview Carolina students where they live. They all had son but mostly an image that one similarity. Most students Americans have transformed to were around their friends of their liking in their mind. Most the same ethnicity; they were Americans have fantasized about relaxed and carefree in their Megan Fox but has never actually comfort zone. Why do the been with her, well at least the words differ from the actions? males anyway. Most have not Well Astrid Aponte, Hispanic, even shaken her hand. Diversity offered key insight. is something that exists in Carolina “Being a different race is students’ lives, but it’s not actually being different.” in our possession or embraced. It’s as simple as that. DiverDiversity only received from high praises from sity is a splendid concept but it’s not comfy. And that’s Carolina students of different races. against tradition. It guides you away from people most Lisa Martin, Caucasian, said, “Diversity is what likely to understand you. Those people are probably in makes the world exciting.” your same ethnic group. You most likely Candice Locklear, Native American, “Being a perceive most people in your same ethnic said, “It’s fun.” group as the only people to understand you. different Exciting. Fun. Megan Fox. “When you’re struggling, you are most likely race is to call on people of the same ethnicity,” exOn the other hand, lays comfort. Good, plains Black Student Movement President old, traditional comfort. If comfort was a person, being B’anca Glenn. it would be a close friend or family. Let’s say different.” the archetypal Grandma. Grandma coddles you Most students believe Carolina encourages when you are born. Grandma looks like you, or caters to diversity. However, all Carolina understands you and you confide in her. She’s good for students don’t think the concept of diversity is successfully your soul. All the Carolina students I interviewed about the implemented. Some say it is forced, kind of like Megan lack of diversity seen in friend circles, organizations and Fox’s presence in movies, websites, and magazines; it’s dining halls had a similar explanation for why that might hot, makes us look good, so let’s push it. be. Their answers felt like couches; stationary varying in The truth is that Carolina can urge diversity on the quality, but comfortable. student body as much as it wants. But it’s up to the stuChelsea Cooper, Africandents to embrace it. Life can American said, “It’s easier for me place Megan Fox in front of the to associate myself with people of guy (or girl) but it can’t force him my ethnicity.” (or her) to spit game to it (It shouldn’t have to!) We have to Nidia Menjivar, Hispanic, leave Grandma sometime. said, “A lot of minorities stick to themselves.” - Kent Robertson Ryan Furiness, Caucasian, caps this off with “birds of a feather flock together”.
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Summer - a search internships. Also visit the
portunity?
time for sun,
Carolina Connection Alumni Data-
sand and in-
base to find the contact informa-
vantage to say the least because
ternships?
tion for alumni in your interest
most of the kids in my internship
Most college
area. In their step-by-step guide to class came from Ivy League back-
students real- securing an internship, UCS lists
“I was kind of at a disad-
grounds so coming from a public
ize the importance of having an
seven steps to success:
institution they already made their
internship before graduating. But
1. Self-examination: What types
decision on me,” says Matthew.
what they don’t know is how to
of companies are you interested in
land that stellar summer job that is working for? What skills do you the perfect setup to want to learn? your future.
An article in a July 2009 issue of the New York Times reported that “internships available to college students have fallen 21 percent since last year, according
And if you are looking to
is show interest and enthusiasm. Whatever you do, do it well.”
2. Research: When are applications due?
3. Create your own internship: Even if there isn’t a program, you can reach out to leadership in your dream companies to make your own.
to the National Association of Col- 4. Get organized: Choose 15-35 leges and Employers.”
“But the greatest thing you can do
programs and apply!
5. The waiting game: After send-
Unfortunately most prestigious internship programs are also devoid of a strong minority presence. However, this is slowly changing. “A lot of firms are attempting to branch out and diversify,” Matt says. “A lot companies are going global and want their sales force to reflect those they are working for.” Programs like Sponsors for Educational Opportunity
get a chance at one of the golden
ing in an application, follow up and (SEO) are helping by “preparing
summer internship opportunities,
then wait for a response.
the hustle starts in the fall. Senior
6. Interviewing: Always
“A lot of firms
try to set up an interview
are attempt-
their families, commu-
ing to branch
Matthew Mich-
business major Matthew Michele snagged one of 50 prestigious in-
when possible. Knowing ternships at Morgan Stanley in New about the company, askYork City, and he did it by starting ing questions and showhis search early.
“I actually started a little later than most. I started probably in November, December.” Matt says. “A lot of people start earlier than that, like October.” Luckily, on UNC’s campus there are many resources for internships including University Career Services. They attend their internship fairs and networking nights or use their website to
ing off your skills can be crucial to making an ir-
out and diversify”
resistible first impression. You can practice with UCS.
7. Offers and Rejection: Choose between offers wisely and if you have not received any offers, don’t fret - there is always next summer. But once you have secured the job, what’s next. What can you do to make the most of your op-
young people of color to lead by example in nities and careers.” ele’s summer internship allowed him to become competitive in a tight job market. Currently he
is considering a career in many top investment banking firms including Wells Fargo and Morgan Stanley. “I think the greatest thing I gained is the work experience, and the knowledge of a field that I’m pursuing.” - Jessica Cruel
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A Fallen SOLDIER Life held a lot of promise for Morris Lewis said. “His belongings just came back two weeks ago, so the stages keep the pain around for a long Walker. After graduating from Fayetteville Acad- time.” emy in 2004 he enrolled at the University of Walker completed his basic training at North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where he was a Fort Benning, Ga., before being stationed at Fort Richardson, AK. He had been in Afghanistan popular student. only four months at the He chose business administratime of his death. tion as his major but eventually switched to psychology. Walker was a SPC Walker, the youngdiehard Tar Heels fan who loved Caroest of four children, lina. Yet at some point grew uncertain planned to eventually finof his specific academic path, so he left ish his degree according to his sister, who deUNC and joined the U.S. Army. scribed him as a special “The family was surprised he young man with many joined the military,” said Walker‟s sistalents. ter, Alicia K. Hughes. “Although we‟re a military family, and our dad was a “He was smart, confident career serviceman who was in Special and witty,” Hughes said. Forces and served two tours in Viet“He loved to meet people and laugh. He lived his nam, we were surprised.” life with passion for the The Army, it seems, was good things he believed in and for Walker. cared about. I can re“I must say he really enjoyed the Morris Lewis Walker member taking him to see challenge that the Army afforded,” the „Teenage Mutant Hughes said. “I continue to read his emails which Ninja Turtles‟ movie every summer when he was suggest that he had no regrets.” young. He loved action movies, especially anySadly, on Aug. 18 Walker and another sol- thing involving ninjas and martial arts. I rememider were killed from injuries sustained when a ber his 16th birthday party like it was yesterday. makeshift bomb detonated near the Humvee in I can (still) see him in his Food Lion uniform, his which they patrolled. The incident occurred in first official job. We spent many Thanksgivings the Paktika province in Afghanistan. together, and the evenings would always end with laughter.” He was only 23. Apparently, though Walker was close to “I wish that this was a bad dream and I his family, he was careful not to disclose much will wake up soon,” Hughes said in a recent interabout what he was doing in Afghanistan – or view. “Today marks two months since he was killed. I will think of him daily, especially on the about the danger involved. He didn‟t even share gritty details about his deployment to his older 18th of each month.” brother, Wolfgang Walker, a former serviceman Hughes said their mother, Burglinde K. who was also in the Army. Walker, is coping as well as can be expected. “He did not want any of us to worry about “The death and shock lingers,” Hughes
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him,” said Sabina Walker, his oldest sister. “I believe he was proud of everything he accomplished in the Army, because he had never remotely done anything like that before in his life. He was given some additional responsibility based on how quickly he picked up things, and I believe that gave him a renewed sense of confidence that he could do anything and be anything he wanted to be. It wasn‟t arrogance, just confidence.” Sabina Walker talked to her brother frequently, usually by email. She also made it a point to send him items weekly, including cards, letters or “care packages.” His friends did the same, sending him magazines so he could keep up with current events. The two spoke just a few days before his death. “The last time we spoke, he was telling me about his plans to go with his best friend, Sam Rosenthal, to New York for New Year‟s and then we talked about what we were going to do as a family when he got back to Alaska,” she said. “We ended this call by me telling him how proud we were of him and how much we loved him, and he repeated that he loved us, too.” Walker, who wanted to one day marry and have children, received several awards while in the service including a Bronze Star, Purple Heart, a National Defense Service Medal and two Army Commendation Medals, Sabina Walker said. “There were many tales of courage we found out about after he passed away, but that is how he was,” she said. “We didn‟t know about the medals because … if he told us he would have to say why he got them and we would worry. He didn‟t want us to worry about him. He always told me, „Don‟t worry. I stay safe,‟ and I believed that since he said it with such confidence. I really didn‟t worry about it.”
Needless to say, Walker‟s death has shaken his close-knit family. As you might imagine, some days are better than others. And with Thanksgiving and Christmas looming, undoubtedly some tough times lie ahead. But while living with their grief, the family has established a memorial scholarship in Walker‟s name that will help defray college costs for a graduating senior at Fayetteville Academy, where he played on the varsity basketball team. “One of the reasons we started this memorial scholarship was to keep his legacy alive,” Sabina Walker said. “How could you not, with all that he accomplished in (such) a very short period of time?” - Laurie D. Willis
“...and he
repeated that he loved us, too.”
To contribute to the scholarship, go to:
www.mowalkermemorialfund.org Laurie D. Willis, a 1986 J-School graduate and former Black Ink editor, spent 18 years writing for daily newspapers, including The Baltimore Sun,
The News & Observer and The Charlotte Observer. She is the assistant director of public relations at Livingstone College and freelances from her home in High Point.
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A Helping Hand Left Cold
The current state of the Minority Advising Program College is the start of a journey like no other. Who doesn’t recall the frantic process of Facebook friending people within the UNC network, with an effort to establish relationships before the start of school? Although precautionary measures were taken, there was no escaping the inevitably uncomfortable situation that accompanied the exciting transition into college life. At the conclusion of many of our high school careers, we had developed relationships and established a sense of social status, and as freshmen in college, we find ourselves right back in the awkward position of having A few thoughts in regards to the Minor- to adjust and reconnect. ity Advisor program from a pioneer of Fortunately, in order to ease the overwhelmthe program, Marcus Collins: ing transition into college, UNC has developed the Minority Advisor program, which is administered The minority advising (MA) program is just one of within the Office for Student Academic Counseling. three major programs within our office, the CenThe Minority Advisors on campus serve a number of ter for Student Success and Academic Counseling purposes, including operating as role models (CSSAC). In addition to this effort we also have a mentor program for the Carolina Covenant Schol- throughout campus, dedicating oneself to the perars program and a program called C-STEP which is sonal growth and development of students, and creating an accessible environment for communifor students transferring from the community college. My role as the Assistant Dean is responsi- cation and the creation of relationships. In summability for the overall management of the program. tion, the primary goal is to “Help each mentee adWe employ 5 graduate students to work specifi- just to the academic and social atmosphere at cally with us in the MA program and this year we UNC.” From have over 120 MAs on board. The program fits personal exFrom the perspective of James well with our overall mission which is to promote perience, I Malloy, an active Minority Advisor: academic success among students. can comfortably atMarcus Collins – Mcollins@email.unc.eduh The minority advising program is great test to the Assistant Dean, Office of Student Academic Counin that it aims to ease the freshman statement seling transition. After having benefited that freshfrom the program as an advisee, I decided that I, too, wanted to pass down man year is a time of identification, acclamation, my ‘bits of wisdom’ and become a miand transition. Minority Advisors are meant to assist freshman, nority advisor. I was assigned three and although this is a completely individual journey, first-year students, and I would say there is no need to travel it alone. Take a minute and that above all, my job as a minority advisor is simply to maintain an open air think about the amount of times that your Minority of communication, imparting to them Advisor has reached out to you. We are here to help. 1) all the advice I wish I would have folAlthough you might not feel like you need it, please lowed, 2) all the advice I wish I had been don’t forget that we are here. given, and 3) the encouragement that - Alexis Brightman we all need from time to time when things get tough. James Malloy UNC ‘11
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40 TH AN N IV ER S AR Y
THE JASMIN JONES STORY Jasmin Jones is all smiles and full of excitement as she walks
of her busy schedule, to pick her brain JJ: I am big person on student life; itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s about her new responsibilities as Stu- always been one of my biggest fo-
into the Student
dent Body Presi-
cuses. Academics are the primary
Government suite.
dent.
goals while we are here, but student
She happily
Black Ink: What
life is what really makes are time
greets everyone in the suite as she
made you want to here. The 3 goals I kept promoting during my campaign were community, run for Student
heads to her of-
Body President?
fice. Her positive
Jasmin Jones:
energy brightens
Student Govern-
up the entire room
ment was the first
and it is clear that
student group I had
Jones is having
joined freshman
fun in her role as
year. I just felt like
Student Body
it was for me. I did
President. Jones was elected as
http://www.facebook.com/people/Jasmin-Jones/1114230115#/ photo.php?pid=30312189&id=1114230115
the 2009-2010 Student Body President in the spring of 2009, which marked the beginning of a whirl-wind year.
3 committees: Minorities Affairs,
Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s affairs and student life, and I was on the Student Advisory Committee. I knew it was something I wanted to keep doing. I have seen the
collaboration, and outreach. We have a lot special groups here at Carolina and a lot of growing populations that need attention, so community is important. Collaboration is huge, and I think the university is now learning that is the best way to progress forward. The last goal is outreach. We are still trying to slowly conquer that. We have the blessing of being covered well by the Dailey Tar Heel, but we have to go beyond just the DTH. We are working on several initiatives that will roll out by December, to begin
Jones is in a small minority of change the Student Government has making student government more out Student Body Presidents at the Uni- had on my time here. And I was like I there and more transparent. versity of North Carolina at Chapel
could I try to do the same thing. I de-
BI: How is the progress
Hill. She is an African American and a cided to take the chance. female, but if you ask her she is just a BI: What were your goals Tar Heel. when decided to run, what change I sat down with Jasmin one did you want to make?
thus far on your goals?
Wednesday afternoon, in the middle
rolling later this month and into the
JJ: The platform progress is still in the works. The cabinet pushes that forward and will probably have things
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BI: What is your most
second semester definitely. The ex-
April I will be able to choose. But right
ecutives, including myself, do all the
memorable Carolina moment?
crisis management and developing new projects, those are all well into
JJ: Probably Election Day, or whether trying to get through senior year and the entire election season. I saw how think about the future.
progress. Like we have an Academic
students gave themselves to some-
Dream Team, which was an im-
one they didn’t even know; and how
would give other students who
promptu program that comes up with
powerful and inspiring it can be for
want to run for SBP?
initiatives to help enhance the aca-
someone to believe in you. I realized
demic environment.
JJ: I would say there is no definite
how selfless people can be in order to student for this role. I think some stusupport somebody and not reap any dents may think that it takes a particu-
BI: Has Obama’s presi-
now things are hard because I am still
BI: Is there any advice you
dency impacted or inspired you?
of the benefits. That is a sign to our
lar person; it just takes a love for your
JJ: I think beyond my position as a
future leaders.
school and a vision for your school. I
BI: Has your gender or race think anybody is capable, but it is a
president, I think Obama has taught us all how to be a leader. He is an
affected your role as SBP?
exemplary leader in all regards. I watched how he carried himself and
JJ: I’m really not sure. I definitely take ryone should reach for their highest my identity seriously, I know I am an star.
how he spoke and how he was able
African American woman and I am
to touch millions. I respected how he
very proud of that. But being a Tar
tough job so be prepared. I think eve-
- Kandace Watkins
was in control of his campaign, which Heel is the ultimate identification here. For more information about Jasmin I thought was indicative of my camNow when I go out in the real world I and her plans and goals visit:: paign too. You can let other people know it might play out very differently. www.unc.edu/jasmin control what you want to do or you But here, the sense of community can create what you want for yourself. makes you feel like you are a Tar BI: What impression do you Heel. want to leave on this campus?
BI: What do you plan on doing after
JJ: I just want to see a new a tradi-
graduation?
tion started anywhere. Like I said I
JJ: I am still trying to figure it out, but
am a big student life person, whether I have three prong approach. I am its homecoming or a new initiative. I applying to graduate school, apply to think creating a tradition is empower-
2-3 jobs, and I want to travel. So
ing and all it takes is one person.
which ever ones play out in March or
http://www.unc.edu/jasmin/index.html
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