Claw Magazine SPRING 2015 by The UNC Mirror Student Newspaper

Claw magazine

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INSIDE:

BEARS’ BUCKET LIST Page 6

. 5 m o t t and bo

MEET

ATA PAGE 18

“I would out as a nerd dropped if it weren’t IN GREELEY for them.” Page 4 2015 2015 Vol. 3Vol./ Issue 22 Page 16 SpringSPRING 3 / Issue HOW TO SURVIVE

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ALSO: UNCClawMagazine.com for these stories available only online: Student debt: Breaking the pattern Why leaving school with thousands of dollars of loans is a cultural norm. by Kimberly Borden

Alone on the Stage Students face nerves and competition while auditioning for the School of Performing and Visual Arts. by Mikhala Krochta

Beyond Division I Sports aren’t limited to bright stadiums, beer and painted chests. by Jordan Baca

Band Season by Zoe Hoisington

Sexual Harassment Harassment is harder to define—and report—than abuse. by Amanda Macdonald

About the Claw FROM THE EDITOR’S DESK

all semester is like a marathon, with no real breaks during the whole 16-week period, but spring semester is a roller coaster. Combining full-time school with other activities can be overwhelming. In UNC’s band program, spring semester sees the wind ensemble attending the yearly music educators’ conference, full band concerts, small ensemble concerts, all-state band and the jazz festival. In the journalism program, spring semester sees the hunt for internships begin, along with spring-only capstone courses and the rush to solidify staff for student publications. I know I’m far from the only student who works on top of school—even multiple jobs. On top of all that, you’re facing the race to graduate. Make sure you have all your credits. Order your cap and gown. Pay the graduation fees. Look for a job. Look for a place to live after you leave Greeley. Struggle with money, with time, with details. In the middle of the struggle,

there’s one crucial question. How do I prioritize it all? Should I focus on the job that might become my career? Should I focus on my schoolwork until I graduate? Should I focus on the music that is my passion? Should I focus on the writing that is my life? And as you watch the to-do list slowly placing rocks into your grave, the only thing you can think is: why did I do this to myself? I know the answer. I did this to myself because I love everything I do. I love The Mirror. I love The Claw. I love my job, I love my music, I love my writing. And cutting out on any of it sounds much worse than the weight building atop my casket. And I could not have survived this twisting, turning, hurtling roller coaster without the help of my excellent staff here at The Claw. What would I do without my dedicated design team? Well, I’d probably fall apart. I’ve been pushed along by writers who are truly passionate about their subject matter and pulled forward by the best advertising director I could hope for. All this was made possible under the supervision of our amazingly dedicated and talented general manager, Matt Lubich. So thanks, staff. And thank you, readers, because without you, student media would not be the crucial part of UNC that it is today. You have shaped us and you keep us alive, pulling the brake on the roller coaster before we start to puke.

STAFF

Editor in Chief: Awnna Evans Copy Editors: Tara N. Cady, Amy Yoelin Graphic Design Chief: Dakotah Intriglia Photography Chief: Natalie Stacker and Ye-In Morris Advertising/Sales Manager: Hannah Crowley

Writers:

Graphic Designers:

Jordan Baca Zach Blackburn Kimberly Borden Alyssa Cheatham Shelby Foster Zoe Hoisington Mikhala Krochta Amanda Macdonald Ashley Montano Ye-In Morris Laura Muff Amanda Mulnix Leticia Vargas Katarina Velazquez Amy Yoelin

Mohammed Al Nemer Dakotah Intriglia Manny Pérez Ben Rupe Trystin Smith Photographers: Ye-In Morris Ben Rupe Natalie Stacker PR Representatives: Amanda Mulnix Shelby Foster

General Manager: Matt Lubich Student Media Corporation 823 16th Street Greeley, CO 80631 (970) 392-9270

The Claw is a publication of the Student Media Corporation.

Contents Spring 2015 Volume 3 Issue 2

Student Lifestyle: Level Up!

Bears’ Bucket List

How to survive as a nerd in Greeley

Eat, Cycle, Sleep

Don’t waste the best years of your life.

A day at the races with the UNC cycling team

On Campus: Study Abroad Now

Stop what you’re doing and follow your dreams overseas.

Unusual Majors and Minors Step away from typical paths of study.

Best and Worst Jobs on Campus

Do you have one of the top 5 worst student jobs at UNC?

Cultural Center Families

“I would have dropped out if it weren’t for them.”

The Art Scene: ATA - All of the Above

A Greeley band won’t stick to a genre label.

The Vinyl Revival

Record sales are soaring. Are you buying?

Lighting up

Glass art or smoking paraphernalia?

PVA Preview

The Little Theatre of the Rockies summer season presents...

Student Lifestyle

Level Up!

How to survive as a nerd in Greeley Photos and Story by Ye-In Morris

elcome to a world where mythical creatures meet on the battlefield in a fight to the death. Wielding swords, bows and arrows, spells and magic, they obliterate one another, sending their opponent’s HP down to 0. It’s a world where you can toss your stressed college-student self out the window and take on a new persona as Adira Strongheart, Ashnod, Draven, Leona or any other wise wizard, graceful elf, bold dwarf or strong knight of your choosing. Although this may sound like you have stepped into a J.R.R. Tolkien novel, you have actually entered the world of gaming. Magic the Gathering, League of Legends, World of Warcraft and Yu-Gi-Oh! are all popular video and card games that have exploded in popularity, giving birth to a community that many deem as “nerds.” Like “jocks” are into sports, League of Legends is their football, WoW their basketball, Magic their baseball, all requiring their own forms of handeye coordination, problem solving skills and strategic knowledge. “Everyone is basically a nerd about something. I

mean Fantasy Football is basically D&D but with helmets,” said Andy Mithun, an employee at The Nerd Store in Greeley. The Nerd Store is a shop on Eighth Street, and it’s basically a comic book store on steroids. It carries everything from comic books to figurines and playing cards. The owner of the shop, Travis Parry, opened up The Nerd Store back in October 2013. He originally opened it as a place where people could shop for “nerd goodies,” and it eventually ended up turning into a safe haven and sanctuary for his fellow geeks. The Nerd Store also hosts a variety of events such as card game tournaments, sword fighting and comic book drawing. “Nerds are the dreamers of society, the people who create everything in this world, the people behind technology and pop culture. We are the creationists, the outcast, the socially awkward and the unique,” Parry said proudly. One of the most popular alternate reality games that has taken hold in the nerd world is League of Legends, a game where you can play as a variety of

EVERYONE IS BASICALLY

a NERD

ABOUT SOMETHING powerful characters and work together with teammates to destroy the main base, Nexus. Watching gamers play resembles fans watching a nail-biting Super Bowl game, complete with the yelling of every profane word in existence and the occasional throwing of a heavy object. “I love League; it’s a fun game to play with friends to work on teamwork,” said Daulton Dye, a junior industrial chemistry major. “I like how it’s an alternate reality game, and the graphics and artwork are amazing. I definitely love it more than World of Warcraft. It’s also fun to learn about all of the different characters. In other games, they’re just characters to play, while in League each character is unique and has their own story. “It’s a game that gives me a chance to escape from reality and stress from school,” Dye said. “Heck yeah, I consider myself a nerd, but it’s something I’m proud to admit. A nerd is just someone who loves to expand their knowledge of the world, whether this is math, science or just being involved in an alternate reality.” Take a journey into the mythical realms of Magic the Gathering, a strategic card game where victory arises from a battle of wits. “The idea is that each player is a powerful mage that casts spells to fight other mages,” said Richard Shaw, a junior music education major. “The lands are the power source and mages use the ‘mana’ from them to cast their spells. The more lands or mana, the more powerful and bigger spells you can cast.” “I definitely think Magic is the best card game out there,” sophomore music education major Jeremy Smith said. “Not to rip on the other ones like Yu-Gi-Oh and Pokémon, but Magic is just so intensely complex and strategic, it’s hard to beat. On top of that, outside of the card game itself, there’s an extra dimension that you get sucked into. Each deck represents a different realm with background behind all of the creatures

and abilities which literates the world for you.” When he is not busy practicing or jamming on his guitar, Smith spends his free time at Magic the Gathering tournaments held at the Nerd Store every Friday. “It’s both casual and fun, but ridiculously competitive at the same time,” he said. “I love the creativity and artwork of the cards and the endless amount of combinations you can use to build your deck. It’s almost like building your own world, creating a different existence.” Everyone has childhood memories of Mario, Super Smash Bros, Zelda and other vintage games played on consoles the next generation will not remember. Over the years, video games have made huge advances with more complex and realistic graphics. However, there are many who still prefer the old-school video games. “Vintage games are like attractive woman: they’re hard to find, but once you get a hold of one they’re hard to let go of because you know that there’s nothing better than them,” said Parker Kitching, a junior vintage game enthusiast and nursing major. “New games are mainly knock-offs of the originals,” Kitching said. “If you want to play a game because it looks pretty and has explosions then yeah play the new ones. But if you want to play real games with an actual storyline, stick with the originals.” Yes, “nerds” are associated with being the socially awkward of society. People think of 40-year-olds who live in their mother’s basement, however, this is not always the case. They are a subculture and community all of their own, warriors in their own mind, and as Parry said, they are the creators and dreamers of society. “I’m proud of my nerd self,” Kitching said. “Don’t hide it from everyone. Be proud to call yourself a nerd.”

“Nerds are the dreamers of society, the people who create everything in this world.”

Bears’ Bucket List by Amanda Mulnix Background Photo by Natalie Stacker

fter binge watching six episodes of “Grey’s Anatomy” on Netflix, a little message appears on the screen asking if you want to continue watching. Even Netflix knows you’ve been entirely too lazy. You decide to pick the chip crumbs out of your bra, get out of bed and put on some pants. You look at your phone to notice two missed calls and a voicemail, which of course, is from your mom. Who else leaves a voicemail these days? You look at your text messages and notice a random phone number sent out a mass party invite. You roll your eyes. It’s late Saturday night and your roommate comes homes about five shots deep and reeking of an $8.99 bottle of sour apple vodka. She begs you to come to the party and argues that you only have so many party nights left before you graduate college. Plus, McDreamy from “Grey’s Anatomy” isn’t going anywhere. These are supposed to be the best years of your life, right? It’s better to realize this fact sooner rather than later. Your college experience should be lived to its fullest potential. No regrets are allowed while you walk across that lit-up stage and grab the diploma that you worked your butt off for. Photo credit: Dakotah Intriglia After pulling too many caffeine-induced all-nighters and working in countless dreadful group projects, you deserve to let loose while you can. It’s only socially acceptable to have such wild behavior during your “college days.”

Photo Credit Jim Rydbomydbom, Greeley Tribune While others figure out what they are doing postgraduation, you think about what items to cross off your college bucket list during your finals days as a UNC Bear. Will you finally make a move on your crush from freshman year? Will you get a group of friends together and create a flash mob to dance across campus? Will you participate in one last stupidly themed party? Most students don’t realize how little time they have left to live up their college experience, but those that do want to accomplish things before they leave UNC. “My final months here at UNC will be spent taking advantage of the rec center,” said Aubrey Noonan, senior recreation and tourism major. “I don’t think right out of college I will be able to afford a gym membership or pricey fitness classes. I’m going to get my money’s worth while I can!” Like Noonan, most students focus on the benefits that come with being a UNC student. In addition to a gym membership, students get discounted food items, unlimited resources on-campus, free t-shirts, sunglasses and even condoms at on-campus events. Perks like these will

not come often in the real world. Using your student ID will only get you so far before businesses start to notice some wrinkles and your five o’ clock shadow showing. The power of your youth is decreasing by the day! “I know that before I leave Greeley I want to experience one crazy night at Cactus Canyon,” said Shelby Foster, a senior journalism major and staff writer for The Claw. “I feel like it is a part of this small town culture. I can’t leave this place knowing that I never had at least one drunken fiasco there. I missed out partying at Whiskey River while it was still in business, and I feel like Cactus Canyon is the next best thing.” UNC students are aware that Greeley doesn’t have the best reputation as a college town, but somehow they grow to love it anyway. Students who have lived here for the past four years or so will miss a lot of the bars, businesses and restaurants. “Before I graduate, I want to try all the Bazooka flavors at Roma,” said Samuel Anderson-Aidoo, a senior communications major. There are 40 different flavor combinations for the oh-so-famous Bazooka, a 34-ounce beverage filled with an assortment of liquor. Local restaurants like Roma cannot be imitated in other cities. It has grown into a Photo credit: @romagreeley via Twitter UNC hot spot. The college atmosphere it provides allows students to have a drink or three while socializing with their classmates. Graduating students will miss their pizza specials, unlimited spaghetti and mem-

“Your college experience should be lived to its fullest potential. No regrets are allowed while you walk across that lit up stage and grab the diploma that you worked your butt off for.” orable trivia nights. Now, let’s be real. Being in college can entail a lot of parties and drunken nights, but that is not the most important part of the whole experience. College is a transition stage, going from an immature high schooler to becoming an adult in the real world. Not only do you grow into an independent, self-sufficient citizen ready for society, but you also get to create memories and meet life-long friends along the way. One day you will be at your old college roommate’s wedding anniversary party telling their kids embarrassing stories from your “college days” together. These years are filled with nights you don’t remember and people you never forget. It is a journey that not everyone gets to experience. Before you start working nine to five in a dusty cubicle everyday, realize how lucky you are to attend college and make the most of it. So, turn off the Netflix, grab that entirely-too-tight body con dress hiding in the back of your closet and go enjoy yourself.

Drake said it best,

“You only live once!”

Eat, Cycle, Sleep A day at the races with the UNC Cycling team

by Leticia Vargas

ost college students don’t want to experience Daylight Saving Time at 6 a.m. on a Sunday. But, for a cyclist, this is just the beginning of the new season. The small team of three woke up early to be able to meet at the university by 6:30 a.m. They drove to Denver City Park to compete in the first race of the season, and had to register by 7:30. Although he has been racing for four years, this was junior Dakota Troudt’s first time racing as a UNC Bear. But let’s rewind to when it all started. One day, Troudt was bored at home and decided to go into the garage and fix up his bicycle. He enjoyed everything about it, and asked his mom if he could have her old speed bike. Troudt had always been a music fanatic and a skilled guitarist, so when he told his mom he was going to start riding, she didn’t believe him. “When he said he wanted to start cycling, I was like, ‘Yeah right,’” said Barbara Eakley-Troudt, his mother. She didn’t think he was going to take cycling as seriously as he did. But Troudt’s friends know that when he finds a new hobby, his life is consumed by it. So, although this new hobby was a far extreme from his well-known passion for music, it was no surprise that he put his heart and soul into it. Troudt and his teammates had been preparing for this first race since the summer. They would ride all over town and

sometimes even venture off into a nearby town. They keep in shape by doing sprint intervals, riding up hills and keeping up their heart rates. A good diet is also essential for a cyclist. Troudt said he likes to fuel up with foods that are high in protein, carbs and calories. Troudt prepared himself before the race by eating a banana and getting his gear on. “I have to get my mask,” he said. “You have a mask? I don’t even know what that is,” his mom said. Troudt reached into the trunk of the car and grabbed what looked like a sleeve made out of fabric that he put over his head. This is used to keep the face warm. “Oh, I knew you had that, I didn’t know you called it a mask. It’s a neck thing,” said his mom. Troudt’s mom said she had no knowledge of cycling until he started doing it. She supports him by going to races that are close to home and helps him purchase equipment whenever he needs it. She said she enjoys learning about cycling, and she recently learned about the categories of racing competitions. There are three different categories students can compete in during a race: A, B and C, which are also divided into men’s and women’s. Students in the A category are the most experienced riders, and students in the C category are usually beginners or first-time collegiate riders. For this first race, Troudt would compete in the men’s C

“When he said he wanted to start cycling, I was like, ‘Yeah right.”

category. The first race started at 8:30 in the morning, so everyone expected it to be cold. Troudt’s mother and team members stood in the frigid, 34-degree air and cheered him on as he sped by on his bicycle. For the first few minutes of the race, Troudt was doing well. He kept up with the other competitors at a steady pace. But as the laps passed by, Troudt fell farther and farther behind. His mother said something must have gone wrong, because he is usually not that far behind. After 30 minutes of being out in the cold and having frozen toes, the first race was over and it was time for the rest of the team to prepare. The UNC cycling team is made up of four students, but only three were able to make it to the race. Lauren Theune is a senior who has been racing every year except her junior year. She races in the C category. Theune said she enjoys cycling because it’s like a whole new world she had never experienced. Alice Wallett, a junior study abroad student, also made it to the race. Wallett is an elite racer in Australia, but for her first collegiate American race, she decided to race in the B category. Wallett said cycling in Colorado is very different than in Australia. There’s snow on the ground and the altitude really exhausted her the first time she rode in the states. Although both places have differences, one thing remains the same. “You become such good friends with people at races, because it’s always the same people competing,” Wallett said. Since there weren’t enough competitors, the C and B categories were combined into one race and Theune and Wallett competed at the same time. Troudt cheered his teammates on as they sped by on their bicycles. The race was over in 30 minutes, and by 10 a.m. all three members of the UNC cycling team had competed. Theune placed 7th and Wallett placed 1st in the Women’s C race. Troudt placed 15th out of 35. He said another rider cut him off halfway through the race, and the cold weather slowed him down as well. Although Troudt did not win, he was very proud of how the team did overall. “This was our first race,” he said. “We had one win and two of us placed in a decent spot. I’m really proud of our small team.” Troudt was tired from the race and the cold weather. After the long and tiring morning, Troudt was back home by 1 p.m. and all he wanted to do was take a nap.

Photo by Leticia Vargas

6:00 AM WAKE UP 6:30 AM MEET UP 7:30 AM RACES REGISTRATION 10:00 AM RACES FINISH 1:00 PM NAP TIME

Photo by Zoe Harrier

On Campus

Stop What You’re Doing by Alyssa Cheatham

ery rarely is homework seen as fun, but it might seem a lot less tedious when done on a beach by the rolling waves or on a lush mountainside in some foreign land across the world. University of Northern Colorado’s Study Abroad program has provided thousands of students the opportunity to venture off to new, exotic places in order to continue their education with a fresh perspective. From tropical Costa Rica to the neon-lit streets of Tokyo, UNC provides dozens of destinations to choose from through its exchange program. The choices can be overwhelming, which is why UNC’s Study Abroad advisers are there to answer any questions or address concerns of a student interested in going international. Kelly Hathaway, a study abroad adviser since August 2014, said students should visit the UNC Center for International Education located in room 2205 of the University Center if they are interested in studying abroad. Hathaway said she now supports the globalization efforts on campus after studying in Italy during her time in college. “There are so many benefits,” she said. “I think it is really good for students to kind of broaden their perspective of the world. It’s great job experience, it’s a wonderful thing to put on your resume and talk about in interviews for employment or even just graduating and going on to grad school. I think it opens up a lot of doors and helps diversify your thinking.”

Courtesy of Eliana Valdez

The UNC Center for International Education is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. for students with an interest in getting started with their study abroad journey. There, advisers talk with students about the places they can travel, the costs of studying abroad and the steps they need to take in order to make the experience possible. Through the exchange program, UNC has partnerships with 22 schools across Europe and Asia, allowing students from every UNC major to find the right international university. Students may also look into the National Student Exchange Program, an alliance of 200 schools spanning the United States, Puerto Rico, Guam, Canada and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Through this program, students pay the regular tuition they would be paying at UNC, plus room and board. Students have the opportunity to attend a school somewhere distinct and refreshing, begin learning a new language and look for potential graduate schools to continue their education. The program also offers students the chance to attend specific types of institutions, including Spanish-speaking, space grant and polytechnic universities. There are other opportunities for UNC students looking to study abroad, including international student teaching and internships. Students looking for more opportunities in their career field can get hands-on experience abroad and even earn credit for internships through their specific academic department. Studying abroad makes a big impact on those who get the chance to venture to an unfamiliar place. Austin Ford, a senior at UNC, had the opportunity to visit Australia and New Zealand during the six months he studied abroad last July through December. Cliff jumping, white water rafting and bungee jumping were just a few activities that made his time abroad unforgettable. “It taught me a lot about myself and the world,” Ford said. “We are all so similar in the sense that we want to have a good time and be happy; our languages and cultures are just different. I learned how easy it is to travel. You can go to a foreign country with a little money and no phone and you’ll be fine.

Study Abroad Right Now

Graphic by Gabriella Penuela/Fusion

“I wouldn’t change anything for the world. The only thing I would change is staying longer. The international connections you make are so strong that you just want to travel to all your friends’ home countries and continue learning culture from everywhere. Six months is simply not long enough.” German Duarte, also a senior at UNC, had the chance to visit Barcelona, Spain, from September to December last year. Hoping to get a break from life’s stressors and enjoy some “me” time, he said his time away reminded him of the aspects of school he really enjoys, like reading and writing. His transition from American norms to those of Barcelona was easy, for the most part. He was already fluent in Spanish and was able to stay with his aunt for the first part of his trip. One difficult task was being away from loved ones. “What if I could just bring everybody from the United States that I love to Barcelona, then we could just live there forever?” Duarte joked. If he had the opportunity to study abroad again, Duarte would take it in a heartbeat. “It was like nothing I had ever experienced before,” Duarte said. “I learned so much

about this new place, I learned so much about myself, I met so many awesome people… Everything that I did there just felt good and I felt good and so I would give anything to have that feeling all the time.” Studying abroad has plenty of benefits for UNC students. Not only can it broaden their experience of the world, it can be a great tool when it comes to future opportunities. Being able to put the experience on a resume can give students the chance to find a good job or go on to graduate school, and it sets them apart from those who simply attend UNC and spend their college experience solely in Greeley. Studying abroad and becoming immersed in a once-unfamiliar culture can be life-changing. Sometimes it’s important to take a step away from normal routines and see things in a completely new light. Through UNC’s study abroad program, students can do just that.

by Shelby Foster Top 5 Jobs BEST

WORST

1. Desk Assistant 1. Dining Hall 2. Custodial 2. Starbucks 3. RA 4. Library

3. Security/Parking 4. Office Assistant

5. Grounds Crew 5. Financial Aid

ith the cost of tuition, books and rent rising every year, it’s no surprise that more and more full-time students are dividing their time between school and work. While this trend is becoming a staple of life for students across the nation, very few schools are collecting data regarding full-time students who also work or student jobs in general. The University of Northern Colorado is no exception.

PVA Work Crew Flexibility

Lack of Training

While conducting research for this story, our editor-in-chief strolled over to the Office of Student Employment and discovered that no complete list of student jobs available on campus exists. So what gives? Are student work

habits lacking importance, or is the higher education administration refusing to recognize the struggle we go through to pay for school each semester? This isn’t a question that has a right or wrong answer because, as of now, there is no answer at all. Since there isn’t much data lying around detailing student jobs, we at The Claw set off on our own investigation. We wondered, what really are the primo jobs you can land as a student? What are the jobs everybody consistently complains about but continues doing out of necessity? What are the best and worst student jobs? Here is what it all boils down to.

Bear Logic Technology-related, relaxed/low-stress, not boring

Hard to switch jobs after working on campus (get used to environment)

Jobs that involve lots of social contact were, by far, the jobs that students praised most. From Starbucks to the Coffee Corner to working for the University Program Council (UPC), the social aspect that accompanies these

Dining Hall

Proximity to dorm, diversity of staff

Too much food service, didn’t feel valued, few opportunities to move up, dirty, didn’t contribute to growth

Starbucks Flexibility, good coworkers, good customers

None

students’ work was a high selling point. The library, the bookstore and the student activities office are other workplaces that also required a high level of social interaction that students praised as benefit to their jobs. However, the latter three said downsides to their jobs were that they could get slow or run out of work to do, which left them with a feeling that they weren’t making the most of their time on the clock. While not all student employees found their jobs to be of great importance to the community and other students, there were some student workers who said their work being fulfilling and helpful was a major factor in their job satisfaction.

Parking Services Good coworkers

People react badly

Students who worked in financial aid, for the cultural centers and for Student Senate all found enjoyment in their ability to advocate for and educate fellow students. Students who worked in the student senate felt the real world responsibility and experience they have gained from their employment has been vital to preparing

Library Interact with people, free time while at work, good coworkers

Late Shifts

them for life outside of college. Out of all the qualities students used to describe their jobs, those who felt like they were making a difference through their employment had higher job satisfaction and had far fewer negative comments about their jobs. This just goes to show that when you love what you do, you’ll never work another day in your life!

Desk Assistant at UC Flexibility (understanding of school over work), learn about UNC, help people

Early morning shifts

Book Store Gets slow during the semester (textbook rush is good)

Good hours, fun people, not too challenging

Altogether, students found more pros than cons in their jobs. That doesn’t mean, however, that negatives were missing from our investigation.

UPC

One major thing that can make any job better is having good coworkers. UNC being such a diverse and welcoming campus caused Claw staff to predict that this criteria would be a major selling point, and it was. Over half the students interviewed said great coworkers were a huge positive to their jobs because of the social aspect they

HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, AC) Good coworkers

provided at work or for their willingness to lend a helping hand. Good coworkers make a big difference in our perceptions of our jobs. Students who work in parking services and security in particular said their coworkers are among the only perks they receive from their jobs. Working for a department that gives out tickets makes their work rather unpopular with the student body. However, good coworkers to share the hard times with make their job worthwhile.

Hard physical work

Responsibility, treated like professionals, flexibility, understanding of academics, work with students

Small staff, so it can get crazy. Some events more respected than others by students

An overwhelming number of students polled agreed that working in the dining halls would be the worst job on campus. Not only can it be a dirty work environment, students also didn’t feel valued or that there was any growth potential in their employment. After seeing all the great qualities

Student Senate “Good experience,” advocating for people, following passion

Having to use Excel, voting process should be more experience/ skill-based than a popularity contest

other jobs possess, it’s easy to see why these student employees felt less than satisfied with the work. Working in dining services does, however, have an upside. Because so many workers are required to make things run smoothly seven days a week, the department needs a lot of students. High demand makes getting the job easier.

Grounds Crew Good coworkers, good bosses

Hard physical work, outdoors, can get very hot during the summer

Regardless of the fact that these jobs in particular had some pretty major downfalls, many students who worked there still were happy to be employed. As the never-ending spiral of cost increases, employment at a good rate, regardless of the struggles we face, is a good reality.

Photos by Natalie Stacker

Unusual Majors by Ashley Montano

hether it is starting freshman year or having a mid-college crisis, have no fear, switching majors is all part of the college experience. Greeley isn’t just a college hot spot for future nurses, accountants and teachers anymore, it is growing into a destination for dreamers of all sorts. From gender studies to sports coaching, UNC offers unique opportunities to pursue almost any passion. These majors and minors are perfect for those who are unwilling to follow the crowd. The gender studies minor concentrates on gender identity, social issues, feminist scholarship and so much more. A main component is that it examines gender issues across the globe by discussing economic and political opportunities. Professors in this minor are passionate about encouraging students to gain individualized opinions about all of these social issues. Christ Talbot, the program coordinator for gender studies, said the program was changed in 2014 to include all genders. She said that this minor is not about male-bashing, although, in the 1960s and 1970s, some small feminist movements were hard on men. “Most feminists are also invested in liberating all genders—women, men and other identities—from all of the trappings of our current gender system,” Talbot said. Although there are more females than males who declare this minor, Talbot has hope that it will continue to grow. She says that gender studies is an interdisciplinary minor which compliments almost any humanities and social science major. “Our faculty is so diverse—one of us is a historian, one

an anthropologist and one a sociologist. We’ve been growing over the past few years, so the future looks bright,” Talbot said. It’s a small minor, but it is growing as more students are become activists for gender equality across campus. Amanda Ellis, a sophomore psychology major, declared gender studies as a minor to work as an advocate for women’s rights in the future. She has also gained interest by being the co-president of the Spectrum club on campus. They focus on celebrating gender, romantic and sexual minorities. “Declare this minor if you are interested in creating an equal-pool university,” Ellis said. “We’re not just talking about women’s rights, we’re talking about de-stereotyping genders. Minor if you want to make a change.” Speaking of change, the sport and exercise science major now offers a sports coaching emphasis. Although students can still declare this as a minor, many are pursuing it as a bachelor’s degree with the new concentration to compliment the online sports coaching master’s program. John Paradis, the marketing development manager for the program, said it provides the foundation for aspiring professional sports coaches. UNC is a leader in educating students who want to coach at any level. “In order to be successful in this program, students need to have a passion for coaching and a desire to learn the skills needed to be a successful coach. These details include sport teaching philosophies, injury prevention, sport law, sport psychology and training and conditioning principles,” Paradis said. Vincent Moreno, a junior sport and exercise science major, said he is thankful that he was able to receive his educa-

and Minors

tion at this university. He said that this program gave him the skills to feel confident pursuing his dream of being a softball and baseball coach. “It’s not just about winning, although we all should strive to win,” he said. “It’s about putting your team in position to win by making them better players on and off the field. Coaches focus on the winning aspect too much and sometimes forget the things that make the game we coach enjoyable. The program here at UNC helps us to remember the importance of why we should be coaching.” For those looking for a program to be more of a lifestyle, and possibly to get paid, then the military science minor is spot on. The Army Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) is designed to prepare students to enter the military after graduation. According to Daniel Hoffman, officer in command, the program welcomes anyone who wishes to achieve academic excellence and exceptional physical fitness and wants to join the Army. Having a college degree before joining the military allows graduates to start at a higher rank than those who enlist straight out of high school. “The first thing that people notice about entering the Army as an officer is that you start out at a higher rank than someone who enlists,” Hoffman said. “This is somewhat of a superficial view on the advantage of entering as an officer. The deeper benefits come from leading soldiers. No other profession out there gives a person in their early 20s the responsibility of leading a group of people in such a wide variety of situations, including combat.” Andre Ratliffe, a senior military science minor, is a con-

tracted cadet who received a 2.5-year scholarship from the military. This program has taken financial stress of him as well since a contracted cadet earns a monthly stipend as well. He said that although UNC’s program is smaller than most, it’s just the right size for him. “Just like everything, it has its negatives, but this program has allowed me to connect with peers on a more personal level and build a closer tight knit group due to the amount of cadets we have,” Ratliffe said. Although this program is not for the faint of heart, cadets still find time to have a social life just like any other college student does. Ratliffe said that he has a great social life, but ultimately, his decision to follow his family tradition of joining the military is why he dedicated his college years to the ROTC. “I believe serving your country is an opportunity and something to take pride in. It is an honor to say that you protected and defended the nation in the United States military, which I believe I will one day be able to say,” Ratliffe said. These students are taking chances by going off of the beaten path. Soon, these programs will not seem so obscure to those looking to pursue a degree at UNC. There are many options that will ensure anyone a successful and bright future. All it takes is a little research and guts to achieve success. For more information, please visit: http://www.unco.edu/admissions/academics/?program

Photos Courtesy of UNC ROTC

“I would have dropped out if it weren’t for them” Creating a home at the Cultural Centers

by Shelby Foster

ithin the first few minutes of talking to Eledora Guerra, you can see how the Caesar Chavez Cultural Center has impacted her. Her dark eyes light up immediately when she begins to talk about the people she has met through the center and the opportunities that it has given her. Guerra is a first generation Hispanic-American and all of her family still resides in Mexico. Not having a support system that understood where she came from and how she was feeling made Guerra feel very alone in her new home in Greeley. “I wouldn’t still be here if it wasn’t for the center,” Guerra said. “The center became my home… It makes me feel a part of

The Cesar Chavez Center; located at the corner of 14th Avenue and 20th Street (house on top of the hill) and/or call them at (970) 3512424.

something.” Guerra felt the center was like a rock, helping to keep her and other minority members at UNC, and she wasn’t alone. Students at all four of the cultural centers at UNC echoed her opinion. Not only did they all agree that without the cultural centers they may not have stayed at UNC, but they also all said they felt similarly about how the centers were truly a home away from home where they found a support system that is similar to a family. Because that’s what they truly believe they are: a family. UNC has three cultural center houses on campus. The Native American Student Services and Asian/Pacific American Student Services are housed under one roof with the Marcus Garvey Cultural Center next door and the Caesar Chavez Cultural Center across campus. The second you walk into any of the three cultural center houses on UNC’s campus, you can immediately see why Guer-

The Asian/Pacific and Native American student services house; Kohl House located at 924 20th Street and/or call them at (970) 351-1909.

ra and many other students call the centers their homes. Each house has a unique feel based on the cultures they represent, but all of them make students of any culture feel welcome. You’re greeted almost instantly by a smiling face and someone eager to help you. All of the houses have common fea-

“Our main goal is to provide a safe space for students who identify with these communities, while advocating for them as well.” tures such as computer labs, living rooms, conference rooms and kitchens. Because the centers run out of real houses, they provide an environment that fosters family-like interactions. Students come to the centers during the day to nap, make lunch, socialize, do homework, watch movies, play video games and just to connect with those who understand them and their stories on a deeper level. On top of being a home away from home, all of the centers host various events throughout the semester to celebrate their heritage, continue traditions and educate and inform other students on campus. While these events do help to

bring awareness to the cultural clubs and centers on campus, they don’t do justice to how much of an impact these centers have on the students who use them and on the UNC community as a whole. “Our main goal is to provide a safe space for students who identify with these communities, while advocating for them as well,” said Rhyann Sims, a junior theater studies and history major. Each center has an academic advisor and counselor who come in on a weekly basis to check in with students and provide assistance in their academic and personal lives. The center provides any help they can to students, whether that be free printing, academic and personal support or just an open ear to listen. Sims’ rising level of enthusiasm while talking about the cul-

tural centers’ effect made it clear that she had seen and experienced their impact firsthand. She said working at the center was a huge boost for her career and for her life. She has seen people’s life paths change drastically because of the help and environment the centers provide for students. Guerra said the centers advocate for their students to graduate, following them from the day they step foot in the center until they walk the big stage, diploma in hand. “A lot of the students who come here and the past people who have worked here who have graduated… If the Garvey wasn’t here, I don’t think they would necessarily be in the places they are now,” said Jade Thompson, a junior sport and exercise science major. But it’s not just graduating and academic success that staff at the culture centers are pushing students to achieve. Guerra is a perfect example of someone whose dreams have come true in great part because of the centers. Guerra had always thought about how great it would be to study abroad in college, but her broken English and limited funding deterred her from pursuing that dream, at first. “I never thought I could do study abroad, never in my life, because I didn’t have the resources,” Guerra said. “Every time I would think about like, ‘Oh, study abroad,’ I would always just think, ‘Oh, I don’t have the money, I would not have the support, like who’s going to encourage me?’ But by having the center and Trish and Eva, they told me like, it doesn’t matter your situation, what matters is what you want to do and picture yourself doing it. I remember telling me that, picture yourThe Marcus Garvey Cultural Center; located at 928 Trish self doing it, you’re going to go and 20th Street and/or call them at (970) 351-1159. study abroad. And I did.”

“It doesn’t matter your situation, what matters is what you want to do and picture yourself doing it.”

ATA

The Art Scene

ALL of THE ABOVE

rom small beginnings and a variety of backgrounds, the local band ATA emerged from old friendships. Though members have filtered in and out, they have now formed an official brotherhood in their band with their current members: Justin Hunteman on drums and guitar; Jesse Fyola on keyboard; Jerry Cruz on vocals and piano; Joseph Rael on guitar and vocals; and Ismael Mendoza on guitar and vocals. The founders of ATA, Hunteman, Fyola and Mendoza, knew each other from high school band and shared their story of how a high school friendship formed into the group they are today. They started out small playing shows for parties, and eventually their name got out and grew in popularity. Although they are still a garage band, the bond between the members is that of brothers, all of them sharing the drive and dream to one day make it big and impact people with their music. Hunteman and Mendoza never had the intention of starting a band; they just enjoyed messing around with making music. Gradually, more members showed an interest and joined in, and they eventually decided that they might as well start a band just for fun. They originally started out as Fly Chasers, but this name didn’t feel right. After bouncing around name ideas, they landed on ATA, which stands for All of the Above. They realized the music they produced ranged from electronic, dubstep and rap to alternative and rock. “We aren’t just one genre, we’re all of them,” Mendoza said. “When you ask people what kind of music they like, they usually say, ‘Well, I like a little bit of everything,’ like nobody listens to just rap or just rock. So we try to appeal to all genres of music. We’re even trying to make a country song.” “I mean it probably won’t really sound country…but it will be around there,” they joked. This unique idea of being an all-genre band is their way of

Photos and Story by Ye-In Morris standing out from the others. Rather than appealing to only one audience, they want to be able to spread their sound to all music tastes. To them, the most rewarding thing when it comes to writing and performing music is the effect it has on people. Their hope is that when people hear their music, they won’t just hear it, they will feel it as well. “Our angle on our music is to be motivators,” Hunteman said. “We want to almost be life-changers in a way. We want people to hear our music and be like, ‘You know what, yeah, I can understand that,’ and not only listen to us and our music but in a way take our message and the words we have in our songs and apply them to their life.” This, on top of the overall rush that comes with performing for a crowd, is what makes them love what they do. Adrenaline pumping, the sound of the crowd, putting everything they have into their music and letting the energy of the audience fuel them is what it means to be a musician. “When you’re jamming, and you look up and see that everyone in the crowd is jamming along with you, they’re feeling the song with you, it’s great.” They hope to eventually move up from small performances at parties and open-mic nights to performing for a roaring crowd at Red Rocks. Shooting for the stars and dreaming big is something this group has no problem doing, but they know the journey is going to be a tough one filled with obstacles which they are prepared to overcome. One day in the near future, they hope to see themselves on the stage of the Moxi in Greeley. The band is currently working on their first EP so they can finally release their sound to the world. Whether you are into rap, rock, electronic or even country, keep your eyes out for All of the Above. “ATA all day, stay irie with unity, peace and one love.” - ATA: All of the Above

Keyboard Jesse Fyola

Vocals+Piano Jerry Cruz Guitar+Vocals Joseph Rael

Guitar+Vocals Ismael Mendoza

Drums+Guitar Justin Hunteman

Lighting Up

GLASS ART OR PARAPHERNALIA? Photos and Stories by Ye-In Morris

he glassblowing industry has exploded recently, especially since the legalization of weed. Glassblowing is the art and culture of taking molten glass and molding it into beautiful and intricate pieces of art, and it is an industry that not many people are aware of. Recently, though, glass art has some negative connotations due to the function of being marijuana paraphernalia. People don’t see it for what it is: beautiful artwork that takes patience, effort and skill to create. The art of glassblowing has been around since the early 16th Century B.C., however it was not until recently that artists have come out of hiding and have begun to proudly display their work. Artist Bryce Huffman of BMH Glass runs a glassblowing studio in Greeley. Huffman began his apprenticeship under Mikey M., another artist who studied

under Bob Snodgrass, one of the most famous glass blowers in the industry. Huffman first met Mikey at a Perkin’s restaurant where he was manager. He had always been fascinated by the art, ever since he witnessed a glassblower in Estes Park as a kid, but it wasn’t until this meeting that he started the craft himself. At first, Huffman kept his day job and started blowing glass just for fun, but he’s now been producing and selling pieces professionally for three years. Though this change was unexpected, glassblowing has become his passion and he distributes his pieces to Bear Necessities in Greeley and their partner shops around the state. When it comes to producing glass pieces, there are endless combinations of shapes, colors and designs that can be applied to multiple styles of pieces. The actual art of blowing smoking par-

aphernalia didn’t become popular until recently and figures such as Snodgrass aided with the popularity. Also known as the “Godfather of Hard Glass,” Snodgrass is responsible for discovering some of the most popular methods used today, such as spraying silver and gold into the glass to produce the color-changing effect popular in many pieces. Snodgrass invented many of the tools used today in the glassblowing industry. “I could have considered it art if it didn’t have that dang bowl pushed in it. Why make it a pipe?” Those are the words of Robert Mickelsen from the documentary “Degenerate Art: The Art and Culture of Glass Pipes.” This is the attitude that many people have regarding glass pipes, without the addition of a bowl they could be considered works of glass art, but the bowl adds the negative connotation of being used for the smoking of marijuana.

Bryce Huffman of BMH Glass

The

Vinyl Revival

n a generation spoiled by the development of Apple products and the convenience of digital downloading, music has become something accessible virtually anywhere and everywhere. Within the past 50 years, the world has seen music media change drastically along with vast advances in technology–– from vinyl records to cassettes to CDs to MP3s. And for the longest time, only the most underground of hipsters from the punk rock scene kept the beauty of vinyl alive. But these hipsters don’t seem so “hip” for their massive record collections and hundred-dollar record players anymore––2013 and 2014 saw a dramatic increase of sales for vinyl records with an even bigger increase in sales in 2015 already. And artists from the underground scene aren’t the only artists releasing these vintage mediums of music; artists who are constantly sweeping Billboard’s Top 100 list are also catering to the comeback. Vinyl records are back from the “dead” and are intriguing college students on campuses across the nation. One of those campuses in particular is the University of Northern Colorado.

by Katarina Velazquez

Even though Greeley isn’t a hot spot overflowing with stores dedicated to vinyl fanatics, students only have to make a short drive to Fort Collins or Denver to get their vinyl cravings fulfilled. Rock N’ Robin’s located in Fort Collins has a variety of records to choose from, and a popular store located in Denver called Twist & Shout Records is another place for students to get this record fixes. Boulder is also a prime destination to buy used and new records. But ultimately, the real question is this: Why are vinyl records making such a significant comeback despite today’s technological advances that are supposed to be making listening to music easier? According to Carl Suby, a sophomore journalism and mass communications major and a hardcore vinyl addict, there are two reasons for this revival. One of them is the sound quality of a record. The second, he said, is the experience of listening to vinyl in a generation that has been accustomed to having things “on-the-go” all the time. “With an MP3, you can just pop your headphones in and do some kettle bell thrusts or something,” he said. “But with a record, you kind of have to be there and fully experience it. It forces you to pay attention.” The experience of actually sitting down and listening to an album in its entirety is a true commitment and something millennials don’t really do today. UNC music instructor Frank Cook also said the sound is

truly notable when listening to a record, mainly because of how the record is made. When a true vinyl is being made, there is no post-production like there can be with digital recordings. He also said there is no actual evidence that proves the sound of vinyl is technically better than a CD or MP3––all evidence shows that digital recordings are clearer, have more volume control and have more all-around clarity. But since there is no post-production for most vinyl recordings, the raw sound is what attracts most people to put on their record player rather than their stereo. “It sounds more realistic,” Cook said. “It doesn’t sound manufactured. It sounds like the artist is there and the artist is performing right in your living room. All the nuances––someone coughing in the background, someone strumming a guitar in an awkward way, someone hitting the rim of the drum instead of the actual drum––you catch all of that. There’s no editing it out.” Cook said people who listen to vinyl records appreciate these inaccuracies. Records create a more “live performance” feel, and that makes the experience of listening to a record more human. Suby also said that digital recordings might just be getting boring for people. “Once you have so much digital product, you’re going to have music that just doesn’t feel fulfilling anymore,” he said. “Our generation didn’t have much music that was something we could physically touch, and I think that’s appealing to people.” According to the Wall Street Journal, record sales increased 49 percent with 9.2 million records sold in 2014––the highest numbers recorded since the music industry monitor started tracking them in 1991. This year, they are only continuing to grow. Both Suby and Cook said the increase of vinyl sales is only going to benefit the music industry. Since most people tend to only pirate digital music, it is more commercially feasible for music industries to make vinyl records. And since the trend of vinyl producing is only increasing, the demand will inevitably increase as well, making more jobs available to supply that

demand. Although the benefits of owning a record collection seem to outweigh the negative aspects, there is one downfall of owning vinyl records: Portability. Records are not as easy to carry around as an iPhone or even a CD player, and this may turn some people off to possessing their own records. But true vinyl enthusiasts said that the hassle is totally worth it. “The thing I like about it is the aesthetics, not the ability to move it,” Suby said. “I mean, a giant 12-inch platter of music is just great. The record art is great. I just love everything about it.” UNC music instructor Dan Obluda compared the trend of digital recording vs. vinyl to film vs. digital for photography. He said that digital anything is appealing because photographers and artists can do a lot of editing to their work. But he said a raw photo or raw recording is something that is much more beautiful and can be more appreciated. “There’s merit in all of it,” he said. “Just difference perspectives.” So is vinyl collecting just a fad or is it here to stay? All vinyl lovers will say it never even left and remain hopeful towards this vinyl revival. “It could shrink down again, but I think it will stay because there is so much you can do with it,” Suby said. “It’s always kind of been here.”

“Record sales increased 49 percent with 9.2 million records sold–– the highest numbers recorded”

PVA Preview by Amy Yoelin

he Little Theatre of the Rockies, known for their summer programs, is back for 2015 with five productions. Each production will be hosted at the Langworthy Theatre in Frasier Hall.

“Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike”

What happens when a sister travels the world, leaving her two siblings behind, and a woman who sees prophecies enters their lives? In short: Chaos. This play will have audiences laughing and curious about the endeavors of this intricate and complicated family.

“Godspell”

This musical explores the life of Jesus Christ via song and dance. Viewers will witness events like the Crucifixion and the Last Supper. Stephen Schwartz (“Wicked,” “Pippin,” “Children of Eden”) brings an interesting and thought-provoking take on Jesus Christ’s values, emotions and opinions.

“A Raisin in the Sun”

Everyone in the Younger family has a dream. Who will attain their goals? Whose aspirations won’t come true? In this play, viewers follow the strides and heartbreaks of the Younger family, rooting for each character in the process. Hope, love, strength and dignity are common themes in “A Raisin in the Sun.”

“Dogfight” Three Marines walk into a bar the night before their deployment, expecting to make memories. However, when a wicked bet is played, a mysterious waitress comes into the picture, changing everything. Can love happen in one night? Newly adapted from the 1991 movie, “Dogfight” is a must-see.

“Aida” Set in ancient times, an infamous love triangle arises between two princesses, Aida and Amneris, who are both in love with one solider, Radames. Aida, who is captured, must decide between her country and love. What will she choose? With Elton John and Tim Rice’s unforgettable scoring, “Aida” will captivate all viewers. For tickets, call: 970-351-2200 Visit http://littletheatrerockies.com for more information. In addition, be sure to pledge your support for Arts at UNC. And remember, UNC has events year-round!

Photos courtesy of the Little Theatre of the Rockies Facebook