Special Orientation Section
Welcome to
Colin McGee / Photo Editor
2A Shop Smart for Books, Save Hundreds Find a Place in The
Vanguard
August 16, 2010
USA Student Organizations
Cassie Fambro
STAFF WRITER edgeofthisworld@gmail.com
If I could tell every student at South something it would be that you’re paying way too much for textbooks and it’s your fault. The book scholarship freshman year is an exception, but beyond that everyone needs to do a little research. So if you would like to potentially save a few hundred dollars, there are a few quick steps to take. Get your required textbook’s ISBN for each class. You can do this by going to the drop-down menu on usouthal.edu and selecting “bookstore”. Next, select “USA bookstore” on the left side. Then, select “textbooks” under the header titled “merchandise”. After a certain date, usually well before the semester starts, you can use the link, which will show you the title to the textbooks you need after you select the classes for which you have registered. Google the titles. Aren’t sure if it’s the right one? E-mail your professor and check with him. Professors are secretly some of the biggest supporters of students finding their required reading for cheap, unless they wrote the book! Once you find the ISBN for the book you need, I suggest using half.com to check first for what the price should be around. If you still want to find something cheaper, head back to Google and use the feature titled “shopping.” Simply copy and paste the ISBN in the search box and the least expensive option and website will come up. Use your best judgment. Many at South take basic Accounting,
Josh York
CONTRIBUTING WRITER joshyork83@yahoo.com
amazon.com
Shopping at places like amazon.com instead of the bookstore may take a little planning, but it could save you hundreds on your textbook bill.
for example. Students need Principles of Accounting, which USA’s bookstore is selling for $211, used. The lowest price on half.com is $93, and I just sold one for $97. It’s completely worth looking around. Another tip is to check out older editions. If you have Biology for non-majors, you can probably imagine that Biology has not changed that much, and the former edition is acceptable. Also, it’s on sale for $2.50 versus the new edition via USA Bookstore for $147, and that’s just used. Isn’t it worth flipping pages for $145 in
savings? Need an online access code? Search online for the textbook without it, and buy the code separately. You’re bound to save by unbundling. With a little detective work and planning, you can save a much larger chunk of change by buying used and online versus in the store. You will also find by selling online instead of using the buyback system, you will get optimal trade-in value. Just have a little patience. With all the money you save, you just might be able to afford the meal plan.
New Rec Center Opening in Late August Cal Thomas
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR ephemeralhomeostasis@gmail.com
There are going to be articles warning you against the feared “Freshman 15” and giving you all sorts of little tricks to lose some unwanted pounds. But there’s a brand-new Rec Center opening on campus that has some amazing amenities. You don’t even have to pay an additional charge – the athletic fee you already pay gives you free access to all the equipment and facilities. Just show your student ID (or pay a membership fee if you’re on faculty/ staff). Located across from Stanky Field on Stadium Drive, it’s a hard building to ignore. Facing the road is a massive weight room replete with free and machine weights, and a rock-climbing wall is barely visible through the glass. There are rows of cycling rooms, new fitness studios, and a cardio theater with televisions and an ever-changing list of classes. Indoor soccer and racquetball courts are also available for use. South has stepped up its game in the field of aquatic fitness as well. One of the most immediately noticeable facilities is the set of outdoor free-swim pools with basketball goals and volleyball nets. There is also an indoor 25-yard pool for laned lap swimming and a deep-water well on top of all of the new classes and programs. All-age swimming lessons are always
Colin McGee / Photo Editor
A view of the new indoor track and gym facilities, the track abuts other exercise rooms and machines, as well as a viewing area of the new rock wall facilities.
offered and many students are taking advantage of lifeguarding courses and watersafety instructor certification to help teach the classes. The pools can even be reserved for private events. The new Rec center even has a smoothie bar for when you’re done with the workout, and a kid’s playzone to ensure that both you and your child get at least a little bit of exercise before marathon video games and bed.
The Rec Center is anticipated to open by Aug. 19, provided that the finishing touches are complete. If not, be on the lookout for access to the facilities starting Aug. 23. It’ll be open from M-F, 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. for late night workouts; 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Saturday, and 1-9 p.m. on Sunday. You can drop by the Rec center or go to southalabama.edu and click on the “athletics” tab for more information.
You’ve done everything on your list of things to do before your first day. You get into your car with your new outfit on and look over your goals again: maintain 4.0 GPA; make as many friends as I can; and get involved. You arrive to class and notice many students are wearing shirts that say things like BCM, KSA, AASA. You think to yourself “What have I gotten myself into?” You, my friend, are an incoming freshman at a four-year university. College can be a lonely place for anyone, but student groups are a great way to meet people. In fact, student organizations are a great way to achieving all the goals listed. Human beings do not function well on their own. Student organizations are a gateway to maintaining a sense of connectedness with the university you will one day call your Alma Mater. Being a part of something bigger than ourselves is one of the most gratifying things we can do. It helps us maintain a focus on our goals. It helps us form bonds with friends that nothing, not even time, can break. Student Organizations such as the BCM, which is a Faith-Based Organization meant to connect Christians together to teach, learn and practice the word of God, produce so much more than just the days spent. They can give a person somewhere to go, when their inner circle is feeling too tight. Not into faith-based organizations? Try the SGA, whose main focus is to create and maintain a governing body with student representation to make sure that our voices are heard as one. There is a little something for everyone. Maybe you’re into weather. Why not join the USA Meteorology club? This club is focused on bringing those interested in weather phenomena together. Perhaps nothing is more important than the last benefit to joining a student organization. They can get you in touch with the right people to create relationships with the hiring managers of a company you desire to work for. This way you’re not just another resume. You aren’t just a South Alabama Alum with a degree. You are you. You’re the guy/girl who brought the fruitcake during the Christmas party last year. Well, maybe not. But as you can see, student organizations are a great way to get connected, establish and maintain life-long friendships, and be a part of something much bigger than yourself. So when you’re sitting in an uncomfortable seat listening to some intimidating older lady in glasses welcome you to student orientation be sure to perk up and listen when they talk about the student organizations. And maybe pick up a flyer or two on your way out. Who knows, one of these flyers might just be a lottery ticket. Your prize? Success.
August 16, 2010
The
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3A
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4A Have an Opinion?
The
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August 16, 2010
Get More Than Books at USA Library Dean Harrison
ASSOCIATE EDITOR millhaven1982@yahoo.com
Let Us Know! Send Letters to the Editor to USAVanguard.Editor @gmail.com
Vanguard Archives
The library can help you with more than just books. You can find journal articles and other useful things to use to help you with that last-minute paper.
$500 $620 $635
When asked what can be done at a University library, some students may simply say “borrow books” or “do research,” and for the most part they would be right. For instance, USA’s main campus library has a vast selection of books, government documents, newspapers, and journals for every stressed-out, overworked college student struggling to hammer out a paper on the night before it’s due (not recommended). SOUTHcat – the University’s online card catalog – is available for providing quick and easy access to an abundance of research material. The above-mentioned student is also encouraged to visit the library’s website, which provides links to its 140 subscribed databases and 15,000 fulltext e-journals for a wider scope of research material. And if said stressed-out college student is unable to find a much-needed book, then he can borrow it from another library with what is called an interlibrary loan (ILL); forms for an ILL can be found on the library’s website. Access to computers and printers is available throughout the library and in an Arc lab on the first floor. Of course, there are other uses for USA’s main library. There are quiet places to study, an art gallery for viewing, and (for that overworked college student who manages to find time to take a breath) a broad selection of media. These can be found on the first floor in the Instructional Media Center. Loan period is two weeks.
5A
The
Vanguard
August 16, 2010
USA’s Best and Worst Bathrooms When You Want to Go in Comfort ...
For the Guys
For the Ladies
By: Cameron Adkins
By: Daniela Werner
The Best Student Center (2nd Floor): This bathroom was so impeccably clean that, when I left it, the veil of crap – as I so affectionately call it – didn’t cling to me. If you are unaccustomed with the veil, walk in and out of a Humanities Building restroom and you’ll immediately know what I’m talking about. Besides the tacky framed art that doesn’t catch your eye when you walk in the door, this bathroom even has personal little trash cans sitting in each stall for ladies to dispose those little unmentionables in. However, if you’re in a hurry to get to class, this bathroom sits at the top of the stairs in the SC, so it’s not too conveniently located.
These bathrooms must get cleaned three times a day, because they are spotless. They smell clean. Take my advice: Enroll in Music Appreciation, and appreciate the tidy, unsoiled bathrooms shared by music faculty and students, which are conveniently located on both sides of the LPAC. S&C: 5 Usability: 5 Convenience: 5 Overall: 5
Women’s Worst: Student Center
S&C: 1 Usability: 2 Convenience: 3 (only if you’re working out) Overall: 1.67
The bathroom on the 2nd floor on the opposite end to the cafeteria is the apex of facilities at South. It’s in a generally quiet section of the Student Center, but that it’s not really out of your way. There is framed art on the walls, wall tiles that form pictures of dolphins, and elegant counter tops and floor tiles. On top of that, the bathroom smells great, has plenty of room, and even has trash cans and seat covers in each stall. Other bathrooms in the Student Center are slightly below the quality of this one, but they are pretty good choices as well.
Humanities: In the past the bathrooms at the Humanities Building have been a little below par. However, over the past year I have noticed a pleasant turnaround. The facilities are always clean, and there is no constant weird smell that hits you when you walk through the door. To make things better, the building is in a convenient location for many people (since there are so many things taught in the building). S&C: 4 Usability: 5 Convenience: 3 Overall: 4
Men’s Best: Student Center
Women’s Best: Humanities Building
The Worst
These bathrooms are scarily similar to the muggy, sandy bathrooms at public beaches, and what lends to the gritty, salty atmosphere can only be the fact that multiple sweaty women pass through her to do their business. When I visited in here, it looked like a kid had gone wild throwing wet paper towels all over the place - even behind the sink faucets. We obviously have some careless students walking in and failing to discard their paper towels in everyday containers known as trash can. The janitors have a long year ahead of them.
Student Center:
Sanitation & Cleanliness: 5 Usability: 5 Convenience: 3 Overall: 4.3
Sanitation & Cleanliness: 5 Usability: 5 Convenience: 2 Overall: 4
Gymnasium:
The Best
Laidlaw Performing Arts Center
Men’s Worst: ILB Building
The Worst ILB: I am including the women’s ILB bathrooms because they have couches inside them, and I doubt it’s safe to neither sit or set one’s belongings on these couches. Think I’m ridiculous? Think about it: Years of exposure to the air in those bathrooms, with a gazillion instances of toilets flushing and sending wonderful things into the air. Still sure you want to sit on that porous, absorbent couch? That’s what I thought. However, like Humanities bathrooms, they are conveniently located right across from ILB classrooms. Unfortunately, lines do form at busy times because there are only two toilets per bathroom. S&C: 3 Usability: 3 Convenience: 5 Overall: 3.7
ILB: You should probably avoid these bathrooms if you can. They are very old and you can usually find some interesting things written on the inside of the stalls. ILB generally has a decent amount of people inside, which makes the state of the bathrooms somewhat of a surprise, but being so far off of the beaten path it’s not very convenient. S&C: 3 Convenience: 2 Usability: 2 Overall: 2.3
Gymnasium: Immediately upon entering this bathroom you can smell what I can only describe as “aging bathroom.” By following the trail of used paper towels on the floor I noticed that there actually was a garbage can in there, obviously filled way over capacity. I have seen some graffiti on a shelf hanging on the wall next to the end urinal, but it is no longer there. Props to the cleaners on taking care of that. S&C: 3 Convenience: 3 Usability: 2 Overall: 2.7
6A
The
Vanguard
August 16, 2010
Need to Print Last-Minute Papers?
USA’s Computer Labs Can Save You Headaches When Your Home Printer Goes Out
Rodney Thompson
WEBMASTER rodneythompsonjr@hotmail.com
The University offers numerous resources on campus to assist students in pursuing their academic endeavors. Perhaps the most useful would be the vast array of computer facilities located throughout the campus. However, not all computer labs are created equal. This article will provide some guidance for those in need of some processing power. If you are a student at South, then more than likely you have been to SouthPaw Services. Located on the bottom floor of the student center, this is the same place that you receive your student ID, room 160. You must be an ID-toting, currently enrolled student to take a seat at one of these desktops. But as long as you meet that prerequisite, then have a seat and browse away. There are printing limitations in this lab, so make sure to check with the student aide before printing out the latest Tom Clancy novel. This lab is available Monday through Thursday, 7:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Friday until 6:00 p.m. If the cramped spaces of SouthPaw Services are not accommodating enough, students can find plenty of workspace in the library.
tagarchitects.net
Computer labs like this one in the Mitchell College of Business can be a lifesaver.
The library is a gorgeous multi-story building with plenty of computer access available to all students. However, these stations can pack up quickly around finals and midterms. Everyone has to study somewhere, right? The library is open Monday through Thursday, 7:45 a.m. to 11 p.m.; Friday, 7:45 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Saturday, 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.; and Sunday, 1:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. This leads to the breakdown of department-oriented labs. Most colleges have labs available in their buildings, but in most cases these labs require you to be enrolled in a class under that major in order to have access. They check, so there is no fooling anyone. The best known of these labs would probably be the Mitchell College of Business Library and the Computer Information Sciences Lab. Each of these offer printing and computer access, but you must be enrolled in courses for each respective major in order to gain access. While these are the most obvious, every department has a lab available that is not hard to find. In most cases, one will find the most benefit in their major-specific labs. These labs have less traffic than the ones with wide open access and in most cases provide unlimited printing for students.
August 16, 2010
7A
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Where to Find a Cup of Joe and Study Quan Tran
CONTRIBUTING WRITER quanzus@hotmail.com
On the list of a college student’s priorities, coffee is right up there next to toilet paper. A sip of coffee could offer juice to an intense study session, or it could set the mood for a great conversation. Most South Alabama students could trace the beginnings of at least one friendship back to a casual cup of Joe at one of Mobile’s many coffeehouses. For the newbies to our campus, I have created a brief review of each of the exquisite coffeehouses that are available for your social/educational needs. Satori Coffee House: Located on Old Shell Road near the College of Education, Satori offers the most down to earth atmosphere out of all the coffee houses in the area; not to mention it is the coffee house closest to campus. Satori is great for both studying and hanging out. It has many tables for study groups, and it also has comfortable couches to lounge in. If you’re a literature buff, poetry readings are a regular sight at Satori. Carpe Diem: Located on Old Shell Road across from Spring Hill College, Carpe Diem is the place to hit up if you’re feeling rather high brow or desire to impress some professional acquaintance. I have had several interviews and professional meetings with volunteer organizations here. It can really be a wonderful place once you get past the austere first impression. The shop is located within a 100-year-old Victorianstyle house. High ceilings and large windows showcase an eclectic array of local artists. The wrap-around porch and shaded deck are perfect for catching up with old friends while their home-brewed coffee has the kind of kick needed to get even the most sluggish
A Guide to Local Coffee Shops
Colin McGee / Photo Editor
Satori sells its own brand of coffee, has a varied beer and mixed drink selection, offers a few local musicians work, and most of the artwork on the wall, produced my local artists, is for sale.
of scholars going. Serda’s Coffee Company: Located on Royal Street in Downtown Mobile, Serda’s is the lively coffee shop that you need to visit if you’re looking for a nice place to pass the time with some buddies. The fun, conversational atmosphere here is not very conducive to a study session, so if you need a setting for a study group I suggest going to a different shop. What Serda’s lacks in academics, it makes up in the entertainment it offers: live concerts and alcoholic beverages. In addition, Serda’s is the only coffee shop in the area that offers gelato: a creamy Italian ice cream with less sugar and double the taste. Once you go gelato, you’ll never go back to ice cream. Moka’s Coffee: Located in Saraland, Moka’s atmosphere is ideal for dates and group hangouts. They offer delicious chocolate fondue, live music, and occasional comedy nights. There are also a few low Japanese tables to bunker your bum down to. Because it is located a bit far from campus, its location isn’t very ideal for South Alabama students to use as a study setting, but it’s great for everything else! On Campus Locations: And if you are feeling particularly lazy, there are also great coffee locations on campus that accept your dining dollars! Although a bit noisy, the Daily Grind located in the Student Center is perfect for a quick sip between classes to keep you going. Also check out Einstein’s Bagels in the Allied Health Building for some caffeine and mouth-watering sweets. Don’t forget to do your own exploring for other coffee venues. There are numerous Starbucks and Joe Muggs sprinkled throughout the malls and bookstores if coffeehouses aren’t your thing. The coffee is out there, it is your job to go and conquer it!
Establishing Rules With Your Roommate Saves Trouble Later Cassie Fambro
STAFF WRITER edgeofthisworld@gmail.com
A roommate can potentially be a great friend, a silent enemy or a full-blown rival. Whether it be an apartment or a dorm, friend or stranger, living with someone else is a huge undertaking and should not be taken lightly. Personally, I have dealt with animal fetishes, filth, unwanted visitors and rudeness. However, others can recount stories of bonding with their roommates that lead to lifelong friendships. It all depends on the hand you are dealt and what you do with it. Whether a friend or a stranger, do not be underestimated by your roommate. If you are not blunt and honest, then you may suffer the semester in silence. Grab your Resident Adviser and get a Roommate Contract. Sit down and respectfully decide what rules you will agree on and stick to. The top three things that you need to consider are task management, visitors and boundaries. These are the quickest things to lead to resentment. Deciding who buys what and cleans is crucial to establishing a routine that is fair. Definitively writing down rules on times that visitors are accepted and for how long can save you from some awkward moments. Agreeing upon who buys what, cleans what and does what further works to create a fair
environment where the burden is equal. Something imperative to keep in mind is that regardless of your race, religious beliefs or prior habits, you need to approach a roommate situation with an open mind. This is a person you have to live with, so act your age and make it work to the best of your ability. Respect works both ways. Out of the most awkward issues discussed by roommates is relationships. A significant other can create friction in a roommate situation and needs to be approached cautiously. I recommend posting each other’s schedules on the fridge, as well as discussing privacy and rules like texting or leaving notes. To force a situation on your roommate that he or she is not comfortable with is beyond disrespectful. If you want to get along, show your roommate that you respect them as a person by respecting their property, compromising and trying to empathize. You are not required to be friends, but you need to be mature and civil. If all else fails, go to your Resident Adviser and don’t suffer at the hands of a psycho all semester. If you haven’t, a great resource to check out is a book called The Naked Roommate by Harlan Cohen. This explores touchy subjects that you are bound to run into, and Cohen handles it in a funny yet informative way.
guestofaguest.com
Your roommate situation may not be as harmonious as this trio’s, so it’s always a good idea to get a roommate contract with your resident adviser and establish some ground rules.
8A Marching Band Gearing Up for Great Year The
Vanguard
Stephen Newhouse
SPORTS REPORTER st2_new@msn.com
Year two of the Jaguar Marching Band should begin with a bang after a stellar rookie season led by Director Ward Miller. The band delivered the unexpected in year one with innovative shows and creativity. In addition, the band became the heartbeat behind a stellar undefeated Jaguar football team last fall. Nestled in the center of the student section; the band was a fan favorite not only for students, but for the entire Jaguar Nation as well. “We want to make sure that the trademark personality of our band is quality,” Miller said in preparation for the Jags first season. The quality was definitely delivered with shows inspired by such famous tunes like that of Led Zeppelin. As the 2010 football season approaches, fans are eager to see what Miller and his marching Jags have lined up. The band has become a large and diverse part of the South Alabama tradition on fall Saturday afternoons. The band, with over 150 members, is made up of students from all over. From the local kids to a feature twirler from Pennsylvania, the band is one unit of precision, balance and teamwork. USA Football isn’t the only group with expectations this fall. Many fans will have their ears tuned in for year two of the Jaguar Marching Band as well.
August 16, 2010
Write for The Vanguard!
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Colin McGee/ Photo Editor
The full USA Marching Band practices during band camp amid the sweltering Mobile heat on their practice facilities next to the Mitchell Center. Band camp will conclude on August 21.
9A
The
Vanguard
August 16, 2010
Meet Your Administrators
Read here to see what some of your administrators liked about their college experience and how you can make yours worthwhile.
Dr. David Johnson VP of Academic Affairs
Dr. John Smith VP of Student Affairs
Michael Mitchell Dean of Students
Please describe what you do.
I am responsible for the curriculum, recruitment/retention of faculty, and overseeing tenure/promotion for six colleges: Arts and Sciences, Mitchell College of Business, Education, Engineering, Computer and Information Sciences, and Continuing Ed and Special Programs. The libraries, Enrollment Services, Registrar’s office, and the Office of Institutional Research, Assessment and Planning also report to my office. My No. 1 job is to do all that I can to facilitate academic success among our students.
I have supervisory responsibility for many of the non-academic departments on campus and my office serves as a resource for students that need help or have issues/concerns. Also, I try to make sure that student leaders are involved and their voices heard when campus changes are proposed.
As Dean of Students, I supervise the following areas: Student Center, Campus Involvement, Greek Life, Minority Affairs, Campus Programs, Recreational Sports, the ID Office, Student Support Services, TRIO grant programs, campus discipline, and the Student Government Association.
How long have you bee n in your current position?
Since January 2009.
I am in my third year at USA.
I have worked at USA for two years.
What is a little bit of advice or a welcoming message you have for USA students?
Give us your best. Our responsibility as faculty is to provide you with outstanding opportunities to learn, grow and develop. Your responsibility is to take advantage of those opportunities. If you give us your best effort, you will succeed.
Get involved in campus life and enjoy your time in college. It is important that students leave with a quality academic experience, but they also need to be able to demonstrate to future employers and professional schools that they have the leadership and social skills to be successful as well.
My advice to students is to be open to the college experience. Find your place here and make a difference. If there is an aspect of your experience here that you think needs some development, become an active part of the solution by getting involved.
What was your favorite thing about your undergraduate experience? What about your least favorite thing?
Favorite Memory: I was a political science major in college, and in my first poli-sci class my professor told me he thought I had a lot of potential, and if I applied myself, I could be somebody. After that, I worked very hard because I never wanted to let him down. He made a big difference in my life. After I became a professor, I tried to reach out to many of my students in similar ways. I hope I have helped some of them reach their potential. Least Favorite Memory: I made a fool of myself learning to swim as an 18-year-old because I had to pass a swim test to earn my BA. To pass, the teacher had to give me bonus points.
Favorite: campus atmosphere. I attended a small college where everyone (faculty/staff/students) knew each other, which helped create a very friendly, supportive environment. Least favorite: the 6 a.m. practice that I had every morning (member of cross country team).
My least favorite thing about my undergraduate experience actually ended up being the most important part of my time at South Alabama. My first chemistry class at South actually helped me to understand that science just wasn’t my strong point. My least favorite class helped me to identify those things that were strong points for me. Those strong points eventually led me to the career that I have today.
Meet your Student Government Association President, Kimberly Proctor. Major: History and English Class: Senior
Please describe what you do. I serve as the liaison between students and administration. I attend meetings to voice student opinions/concerns/ ideas, and bring back decisions/ideas from the administration to SGA.
What is a little bit of advice or a welcoming message you have for USA students? If there is any piece of advice I can give you, it is to be involved on campus. There are more than 300 campus organizations for you to join. The connections and networking you gain from these experiences are indeed priceless. Be more than a student; be a Jaguar.
What is your favorite thing about your undergraduate experience? Your least favorite thing? Favorite part: Dr. Sebastian’s Geo 101 class – everyone should take it before they graduate! Least favorite part: Walking to class in the pouring rain because I forgot my umbrella the second day of school my freshman year!
10A
The
Vanguard
August 16, 2010
What You Need to Know About Parking The Lowdown on Parking Permits
Parking Regulations to Watch Out for Matt Weaver
Gabe Grimes
SPORTS EDITOR jmatthewweaver@aol.com
STAFF WRITER gag701@jaguar1.usouthal.edu
Parking permit distribution is an incredible hassle for most students. With a little foresight and planning, though, you can make the parking permit distribution process almost pain-free. To this end, I’ve included some tips here to help you out. But first, let’s get some stuff out of the way: Parking on campus, be it for faculty/ staff, students or visitors, requires an unexpired parking permit. Each student is only allowed one parking permit, but you can usually switch your permit for a different one if the zone you chose isn’t working for you. If you’re living in the dorms or the Grove, your only option is to get a “resident” permit (sorry). Parking permit distribution for the general student body starts on Wednesday, Aug. 18. The dates and times were sent out in a mass e-mail to your Jag-mail account. The most important thing you can do to make the entire process easier is research. Get your schedule and figure out where your classes are. Then go take a look at the parking map (click on the map at http://www. southalabama.edu/parkingservices/map. html ). Which lot is the best fit for you? Remember, you only get to park in one lot if you’re parking on campus before 1:45 p.m. After 1:45 p.m., the zone restrictions are lifted, so your parking permit allows you to park in any white-lined student space on campus. Also, have your information handy when you go to get your permit: photo ID, printed class schedule (a copy on your cell phone won’t work), Jag number, vehicle make, vehicle model, and license plate number are all needed. If you don’t have a license plate yet, your VIN will do, but you’ll need to update your information with Parking Services as soon as you get your tag number. This website ( http://www. southalabama.edu/parkingservices/ motorvehicleregistration.pdf ) has the actual form you’ll need to fill out, so you can save yourself some time by completing it beforehand. And do be sure to fill it out completely; if you get to the front of the line without your form completely filled out, you’ll be sent away and will have stood in line for nothing. The available lots are North (near the Chemistry, Humanities and Library buildings), Central (two lots, one near the Humanities building and the other behind the Engineering buildings), South (near the Mitchell College of Business and behind the Admin building) and East (two lots, one next to the new Nursing building, and the other lot near the ILB). If you want to park in the East lot (Nursing students and Math/Physics students probably do), get in line EARLY. Last year, the East lot filled up within the first couple days. Of course, this information is subject to change. Additional information and changes will be sent out to your Jagmail account, so double-check it before you go to get your permit.
Vanguard Archives
This sight out of a nightmare, a USA parking ticket, may be what you see the next time you get to your car if you don’t follow the proper parking rules.
www.southalabama.edu/parkingservices
This parking map, with the Central lots (C), South lots (S), East lots (E), and North lots (N), marked may be the difference between you getting to class on time and being late.
Despite appearing complicated and lengthy, South Alabama parking regulations are actually very simple. Understanding the rules of the road at USA will save students a small fortune over time in school. Most importantly, all vehicles parked on campus must have a valid permit, temporary or permanent. This permit must be issued by Parking Services and be readily displayed at all times. Parking Services will start issuing student parking permits from the Mitchell Center starting Aug. 18 at 12 p.m. As there will be other events in the Mitchell Center, students must enter through the south doors on the same side as Old Shell Road. Students are allowed one permit based on their schedule and most visited destinations on campus. Options include North, South, East, Central and Housing. Choose carefully because students will only be allowed to park in their designated zones from 7 a.m. to 1:45 p.m. on weekdays. Failing to do so will mean tickets, fines and a hold on academic transcripts. If your classes are all around campus, JagTran remains your best option to get from Point A to Point B. The Mitchell Center’s south lot is also an appealing destination as it is open to all students with a permit. Students who park in faculty parking spaces before 5 p.m. or in orange timed spaces (usually set at 30 minutes) are also subject to parking tickets and fines. If a student is issued a parking ticket, he or she has 10 business days to appeal the fine. Appeals must be filed online at www. southalabama.edu/parkingservices. Be warned: appeals are rarely overturned so the office insists on filing an appeal only if no rule has been broken. Once a decision is reached by SGA Chief Justice and Attorney General, results will be posted on a glassed bulletin board just outside of the Student Center’s main lobby. Student services would like to remind students that the following do not constitute acceptable reasons for breaking regulations: lack of knowledge of the traffic and parking regulations, lack of space in a certain lot, inclement weather, being late for class, permit used by another person, failure of officers to ticket previously for same offense and disagreement with the traffic and parking regulations. For more information, contact the Parking Services Office at 251-461-1481 or visit its Web site at www.southalabama. edu/parkingservices. The office is located in Faculty Court South (the long, thin building between the Student Center and Jaguar Gym building). Go there if you have any questions about the parking policy or if you’re late getting your parking permit. It’s better to see them now than when they’re putting a ticket on your windshield.
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August 16, 2010
Trouble Paying for College? South Offers Numerous Opportunities for Free Money for All Students Matthew Peterson
MANAGING EDITOR mwp601@jaguar1.usouthal.edu
Even if you missed out on a Presidential Scholarship, the University has plenty of ways to relieve your tuition bill no matter your major. While most of them are awarded at the end of the academic year, it’s best to get started now so you can improve your chance of nabbing one of them. First, don’t neglect your classes. One of the main criteria for all scholarships is grade-point average (GPA). But you can make up for a less-thanstellar GPA. Get involved in activities you like to do, and go for leadership positions. Being active on campus and otherwise is a great way to make yourself more appealing to the scholarship committees, whether it’s serving on Habitat for Humanity or being the secretary for the Drag Racing Club. Get to know your professors, too. Say “hi” in the hallway, ask questions during and after class, and keep up with your assignments. In many departments, the faculty nominate and decide on scholarships, so it’s important to be in their good graces. This doesn’t mean you should pad your resume or suck up to your teachers, though. Do what you enjoy, and don’t worry about trying too hard at impressing everyone. The best advice, though, is to apply early and apply often. Most scholarships don’t have that many applicants, so you always have a good chance to get some free money! Scholarship information is available in your dean’s office, your department office, and on the University website.
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Fuel Your Competitiveness with Intramurals Stephen Newhouse SPORTS REPORTER st2_new@msn.com
Bringing students together every year, the Intramural program at the University of South Alabama is growing in size just as the University. Offering countless sports and activities, Intramurals combines physical activities with a chance for students of all varieties to come together and engage in a fun and positive atmosphere. Whether it is officiating games or participating in them, students can communicate with others and build up the popular trend of campus life. Brian Allred, Coordinator of Intramural Activities, has been working with college students for over 20 years and has seen many students through the years. “When I was a student here, I played in intramurals. I know that most of the people that I stayed in contact with after graduation were the ones on my intramural teams. So I know the relationships and bonds that participating in intramurals brings,” Allred said. With most college students on the go these days, intramurals gives students a chance to slow down, and share in healthy competition. According to USA Today, 60 percent of students gain weight while in college. So these healthy competitions are an essential way in maintaining a fit lifestyle while on campus. “We try to encourage a healthy lifestyle, and people are in classrooms and dealing with jobs all day, and you can come out and relieve a little stress,” said Allred. Games are usually five days a week, and the program maintains a strong discipline of sportsmanship among its athletes, spectators, and staff. USA Intramurals also has the largest network of students on campus. “On average, about 1,500 students a week come through our program,” Allred said. With exciting games daily, the program also offers students the chance to be paid officials. So it is fair to say that USA Intramurals has something to offer everyone.
www.southalabama.edu/intramurals
USA Intramurals can be a great way to let off some steam and work off your anger at being benched your entire high school career. This is how you prove your coach wrong.
Dining Services Caters to All Your Food Needs Clancy Jones
CONTRIBUTING WRITER enchanted.quill@gmail.com
Colin McGee / Photo Editor
Tony Dimitrov, the assistant volleyball coach, receives his lunch Wednesday during a free tryout given at the Market. The tryout was to give students a glimpse at the new offerings of meals.
The USA Dining Services offers a wide variety of places to eat on campus. Whether you are craving a restaurantquality meal or only have enough time for a quick sandwich before your next class, you can find what you are looking for right here on campus. The new school cafeteria, located near the dormitories, will be opening in late August. It will offer a coffee shop downstairs and an all-you-care-to-eat buffet upstairs. Also near the dormitories is the Delta Deli, which has a grill, sandwiches, and a few convenience items for those who need something quick for their dorm. Located on the bottom floor of the Student Center are The Sandwich Shoppe and The Daily Grind. The Daily Grind is
a coffee shop that offers Starbucks coffee and a variety of pastries, cookies, muffins, and bagels. Other food options found on campus are Einstein Bros Bagels on the main floor of the Health Sciences building and Velma’s located in the basement of the Administration building. All of these options offer something different to both the appetite and the budget. While some options are more centrally located and an easy way to pick up a quick bite to eat (such as the Grab-N-Go section of The Market, Quiznos, or The Sandwich Shoppe) others are more suitable for restaurant style meals, but farther away from classroom buildings. Whatever your schedule, budget, or appetite requirement, there is something for you when it comes to meal and snack options at the University of South Alabama.
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August 16, 2010
It’s Never Too Late to Consider Study Abroad Matthew Peterson
MANAGING EDITOR mwp601@jaguar1.usouthal.edu
“Plan ahead” is the best advice if you’re looking to study abroad, Dr. Jim Ellis, director of International Education, said. “If you’re a freshman, there’s a wide range of courses and programs to help you with your general education requirements,” Ellis said. It’s harder to find programs offering upper-level courses, so your choices may be limited when you’re an upperclassman. Not only that, but planning ahead can also help overcome the most serious obstacle to studying abroad: cost. If you work it out in advance, you can keep some financial aid money available to help offset the expenses. Plus, most scholarships have early deadlines and require essays, which makes planning ahead even more important. Ellis said it takes between six and eight weeks to prepare applications. “Some students come in January wanting to study abroad in the summer, but it’s hard to prepare a good application in that amount of time,” Ellis said. Your choices aren’t limited by your language, either. Ellis said you don’t have to speak the language to study abroad. “You can go to China and get courses in English,” Ellis said. So there’s no reason not to get started now! You can contact Ellis by his e-mail at jimellis@usouthal.edu or come by the office at 320 Alpha Hall East.
Study Abroad Scholarship Search Engines
Find the Right Study Abroad Scholarship for You!
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You can study in exotic places like China, and all it takes is a little bit of planning. Cost doesn’t have to be a barrier if you just start now: There are plenty of study abroad scholarships available. Language doesn’t have to be a problem, either. English courses are offered even in places like China.
- studyabroad.com - goabroad.com - iepassport.org
13A Introducing the Sun Belt, USA’s Sports Conference August 16, 2010
Matt Weaver
SPORTS EDITOR jmatthewweaver@aol.com
Sanctioned sports are a huge part of the college lifestyle. It’s also one the most profitable and highly organized aspects of the university experience. To facilitate 118 Division-1 sports programs, schools are corralled into divisions referred to as “conferences.” Founded in 1976, the Sun Belt is one of the country’s top mid-major conferences and one that has experienced a lot of growth over the past decade. The Sun Belt Conference includes the University of Arkansas-Little Rock, Arkansas State University, University of Denver, Florida Atlantic University, Florida International University, University of Louisiana-Lafayette, University of Louisiana-Monroe, Middle Tennessee State University, University of North Texas, University of South Alabama, Troy University, and Western Kentucky University. The Sun Belt currently has 12 members, having lost the University of New Orleans over the summer, and sponsors 19 championship sports for both men and women. Thirty-one conferences sanction multisport activities but the Sun Belt is only one of 11 to participate in the Bowl Championship Series (BCS) and the Football Bowl Subdivision. The conference sponsors 10 women’s sports including basketball, cross country, golf, soccer, softball, swimming and diving,
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tennis, indoor and outdoor track and field and volleyball; and nine men’s sports – baseball, basketball, cross country, football, golf, swimming and diving, tennis and indoor and outdoor track and field. The Sun Belt is slowly making its name in football with the recent success of Troy and FIU, while WKU officially joined the league last fall after a four-year trek to Division-I. South Alabama is following a similar path in 2010 after going undefeated in its first year. One year closer to D-I, USA faces a tougher schedule in 2010 that features schools from all four-year programs. Future Jaguar opponents include North Carolina, Navy, Mississippi State and Tennessee. The Sun Belt is located in New Orleans, La., and is commissioned by Wright Waters. More information can be found by visiting www.sunbeltsports.org. Although not a athletic powerhouse on par with the SEC or Big 12, the Sun Belt continues to be a trendsetter in academics, having landed 795 student-athletes on the Commissioner’s List, which honors all student-athletes recording a 3.5 GPA or better during the 2009-10 academic year. The league also named 915 student-athletes to the Academic Honor Roll, which is awarded to those maintaining a 3.0-plus GPA. The total of 1,710 honored studentathletes top the previous high of 1,700 set during the 2008-09 school year. This was the fourth consecutive record-setting year for the conference.
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Student Radio Station Looking for Talent
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Attention students. Are you interested in radio production? Ever listen to the radio and think “I can do better than that!”? Now is your chance. The Communication Department is starting an internet radio station, and is searching for students who would be interested in getting in on the ground floor of a new Jag tradition. We need students to create and host their own radio programs, local musicians who want to get their music heard, and much more. This is not a paid position, but would make a great resume booster for those interested in pursuing a career in radio/broadcasting. Every major is invited, no experience necessary. For more information please contact Jason at usouthradio@gmail.com
August 16, 2010
JagTran Can Move You
Clancy Jones
CONTRIBUTING WRITER enchanted.quill@gmail.com
For a new student, getting around campus can be one of the biggest challenges of their first semester. Often with only 15 minutes between back-to-back classes, making it from point A to point B on time can sometimes takes a bit of planning. Taking the JagTran is one of the easiest ways to get around campus. However, taking it across campus during the busy hours of the morning can have you sliding into class late. In the early weeks of a new semester JagTran shuttles can be crowded. If you live on campus, it’s important to give yourself plenty of time to get to your first class each morning. The smartest solution if you have back-
to-back morning classes is to schedule them so that the classes that are in close proximity to one another are your first classes, then allot the afternoon for classes that are a bit further away. Allow yourself a break between morning and afternoon classes if possible. In your first week of a semester familiarize yourself with the locations of your classes and the quickest routes between them so you have a better understanding of when it’s quicker to walk or hop on the JagTran. JagTran routes are posted at each stop and can also be found at southalabama.edu. Once you have your route between classes mapped out and you’re familiar with your schedule and the amount of time it takes to get to each place it becomes easier to make your way around campus and get yourself to classes on time.
Vanguard Archives
The JagTran moves USA students around campus every weekday. To find about more about JagTran routes and stations, visit the website at www.southalabama.edu/jagtran
August 16, 2010
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Safety Tips from the Chief Matt Weaver
SPORTS EDITOR jmatthewweaver@aol.com
South Alabama boasts an impressive police force that remains on patrol throughout the year, 24 hours a day. Despite the dedication and effort, crime still happens. Chief of Police Normand Gamache Gamache shared a few tips students can use in order to protect both themselves and their belongings. The two most common problems on campus are traffic accidents and burglaries, according to Gamache. “The most important thing I can say to students is to pay attention and be alert,” Gamache said. “Most traffic accidents occur when students are distracted by things like texting or the radio. It stands to reason that being attentive on campus streets will save students a fortune in property damage.” Burglary victims are not as easy to blame as the criminal responsible. However, many students make themselves an easier target to criminals by leaving belongings out in the open or playing loud music in parking lots before stepping out of the vehicle. Subtle details like this often attracts thieves.
“Make sure all valuables inside the vehicles are well-hidden,” Gamache said. “And keep your vehicle locked at all times.” In fact, most car thefts happen because people keep their cars unlocked. Although they are less common, violent crimes can occur on campus. To lower risk, the police advise that students walk with close friends whenever possible and walk in well-lit areas. If a student is sexually assaulted, Gamache wants the victim to understand that she or he is not at fault. “It’s never the victim’s fault,” Gamache said. “And, don’t worry if you’ve been using drugs or alcohol – you’re still the victim.” If a student is sexually assaulted, Gamache advises that the victim call USAPD immediately. “We can be reached at 460-6312, but don’t be afraid to call 911 if you are in danger,” he said. It’s always a good idea to program the USAPD number into your phone just in case you need to reach them in an emergency. Gamache recommends putting it as one of your speed dial numbers. You don’t have time to find it online or in The Vanguard if there’s an emergency. USA is an exciting, safe campus, thanks to the many dedicated officers of the USAPD, but safety must start with the students. More information can be found at the USAPD’s official Web site, www. southalabama.edu/police/safety or by calling a department dispatcher.
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Jag-TV Stepping it Up New Manager Plans Big Things for USA’s Television Station Logan Bowes
JAG-TV GENERAL MANAGER logan.bowes@gmail.com
Hello students and welcome to another exciting year of Jag-TV. In the past Jag-TV has come under a little bit of criticism regarding the quality of the programming we’ve put out there. That’s perfectly fine, everyone is entitled to their own opinion and I respect that. I did my best this summer to try and put those complaints to rest. I’m pleased to announce that Jag-TV has some very big things in store for this year. Let’s run down the list, shall we? First off, we’ll be getting a new website soon. On the website you will be able to interact with other students via message boards and be able to comment on any articles we write, and vote on polls that will give us valuable feedback to make Jag-TV better. And on the website you’ll be able to stream Jag-TV on your computer! You will be able to watch Jag-TV online whenever you’d like; what you see online is what we’re putting out to our channel. We’ve also purchased the equipment necessary to make live broadcasts a reality. This means we will be able to bring you breaking news updates and possibly even broadcast some USA sporting
events as well! And for the cherry on top, we’ve got all new cameras that record to full 1080p high definition to make the quality of our programs top notch. However, none of this matters without you, South Alabama. You see, Jag-TV was once in a state where the only thing that was required of us was that we put out a weekly news program. It takes a full week to put packages together and make a news program, thus leaving virtually no time for the creation of original programming. The reality is that in the past the majority of the original programming didn’t come from Jag-TV, it came from you, the students. It’s a valuable resource for students to get their voices heard or have their ideas come to life. We’re here for you, so if you want to get involved please do not hesitate to contact us at jagtvusa@ gmail.com. It would be great if Jag-TV could get a full self-sustaining programming lineup on the station, but it starts with raising student involvement, so getting Jag-TV to that next level starts with getting a lot of you involved in the creative process! We hope to hear from a lot of you this coming year. Good luck with your classes and have a great fall semester, USA!
16A Preview Your Professors Think Before You Drop The
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Rodney Thompson
Dean Harrison
WEBMASTER rodneythompsonjr@hotmail.com
Some students work better with tough love professors, others prefer the more eccentric type. Whatever the case may be, choosing the right professors can be the difference between a passing and a failing grade. Fortunately, there is a tool that proves to be more than useful for selecting one’s perfect teacher. Ratemyprofessors.com is a very well known website, but for those who have never been there, here is a quick guide. On this website, one can search by university or professor’s name. Each professor is rated in four categories, on a scale of one to five: overall quality, helpfulness, clarity, and easiness. Just for kicks, there is also a hot pepper icon that represents whether the professor is hot or not. The ratings are provided by former students, who are allowed to leave brief comments relaying their personal feelings toward the professor in addition to the specific class they took. This is where the flaw in this system comes to light. If a student is lazy, and the class requires a good deal of work, then the comments tend to be a bit aggressive and unfair. This same principle can be applied in several instances. There are usually a few comments that reflect a bad student venting
ASSOCIATE EDITOR millhaven1982@yahoo.com
ratemyprofessors.com
Ratemyprofessors.com can help you avoid a bad professor and a bad grade.
from getting a bad grade. Taking this into account, the site serves its purpose for the most part. It simply takes a certain amount of personal judgment to weed through the unnecessarily bad ratings. For those who would like some insight into their potential professors, there is no better resource. And for those with iPhones, an App version is available for download that has all the features of the website conveniently organized for the iPhone.
Beware of the Code Cal Thomas
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR ephemeralhomeostasis@gmail.com
It’s the first semester of college, and things are supposed to be different from high school. Chances are you are one of the thousands of new students that flood the campus each year, and you’re just as eager as everyone else to get your work done and get that job with the huge paycheck (and the shiny new car, and a house, and six chickens and a mule). But as the well-educated “adults” that USA is hoping you will all become, USA still has a set of fairly standard and hopefully common sense rules to get you out faster and with less effort on all of our parts. Generally it is discouraged to cause harm to others. This includes, but is not limited to, forced sexual acts, trolling people’s electronic communications (yes, Facebook and AIM count), and punching that guy in the back of the room who won’t stop talking about how drunk he got last night. Which, by the way, alcohol is not allowed on campus outside of sanctioned events, and you can be arrested for being obnoxiously intoxicated in public regardless of the substance or where you consumed it.
Intentional property damage is punishable as well, regardless of whether or not you were sober while you did it – keying your ex-boyfriend’s new girlfriend’s car is actually a pretty bad idea. And for those of you looking to join with campus Greek activities, rest assured that South provides a section in the Lowdown Code of Conduct expressly forbidding hazing pledges. Please consult this before you join – if you are concerned that pledging in a house is being mishandled, please contact USA Police or student affairs. The USA community has security measures in place as well as behavioral guidelines to keep as many people as safe as possible. Burglary and theft are by far the most prevalent crimes on campus, so keep your cars and dorms locked and keep an eye on your belongings. The USA Police Department, located on Stadium Drive by the Beta/Gamma dormitories, is responsible for each call that comes in and they will be dispatched as such. 2010 is looking to be a fantastic year for South, and let’s keep it a safe and efficient one for everybody. You can contact University PD at 251460-6312 for emergencies or any questions that you may have involving criminal activities.
For More Information on the Code of Conduct See The Lowdown online at www.southalabama.edu/lowdown/
The perils of dropping classes are twofold – it can negatively affect a student’s college career path both academically and financially, which is why it is advised to think before you drop. According to Melissa Wold, assistant to the senior V.P. of Academic Affairs and University Registrar, on the academic side a student may delay graduation by dropping courses because there are some courses that are prerequisites for others, and some courses that are taught only once or twice a year. Therefore, dropping classes could adversely affect how a student is progressing through their chosen degree. Wold advises students to speak with their instructors before dropping a class because they may not be in “dire straits.” It’s never a bad idea to speak to your adviser, too, because they should be familiar with your requirements for graduation. The second major reason students should think before they drop a class is the negative effect it can have on their flow of financial aid. According to Emily Johnston, director of Financial Aid, in order to receive federal aid students must demonstrate that they are making academic progress, which is judged by three components under the federal regulation called Satisfactory Academic Progress. Those components are overall time frame, qualitative, and quantitative
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components. Under the overall time frame component, a student has a certain amount of time (192 credits) to get a degree and receive financial aid. If a student exceeds 192 credits and has not obtained a degree then financial aid is cut off. The qualitative component is the student’s GPA. “Once they reach their junior year,” Johnston said, “students have to have a 2.0 cumulative GPA, which is the GPA required for graduation.” She added that if students don’t have at least the minimum GPA then they will lose their financial aid. The quantitative component states that a student has to make a certain percentage of everything attempted to ensure she is progressing to a degree. If the student is constantly dropping or failing classes then her percentage goes down. “The greatest problem with students in financial aid is that they drop too many classes,” Johnston said. “If students drop every now and then it’s not going to hurt them. But if you’re a freshman or a first-semester sophomore you can’t be dropping classes because it’s going to catch up with you.” Johnston also stated that her office tries to hit that point really hard during orientation to inform students of the consequences chronic dropping will have on their financial aid status. “Students cannot drop classes and continue to receive financial aid,” she said
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Don’t Count on Off Days Stephen Newhouse SPORTS REPORTER st2_new@msn.com
Attending school on the Gulf Coast can definitely have its benefits. With its beautiful sunshine and spacious beaches, the Gulf Coast can seem like paradise most days. However, other days, it can seem like a gloomy, rainy nightmare. Included in these nightmares is also the threat of hurricanes and tropical storms. As a result, a regular school day can turn into a state of emergency. Understanding the procedures during emergency situations at USA is valuable and necessary for the type of weather students experience while attending the university. “The primary goal will be the University’s ability to continue classes, research, and normal business operations with the ability of the faculty, staff, and students to travel to and from the University campuses,” according to the USA Closure Policy. After meeting with various administrative officials, it is ultimately up to Gordon Moulton, University of South Alabama President, to decided whether to cancel classes or close the University. Travel conditions, warnings provided by local agencies, and availability of essential services are factors considered in the decision. If cancellation of classes or closings
huntedamericatours.com
USA usually doesn’t close for hurricanes, like the one above, Gustav, that happened last year.
occurs, students will be notified immediately through multiple sources including their USA e-mail address. Exams and other assignments will be rescheduled or alternative arrangements will be made. If you would to like learn more about the University’s closing policy, the school’s website has more information. In addition to knowing the University’s closing policy, students and staff should be familiar with Mobile County’s emergency evacuation plan.
USA Offers Free Tutoring Genny Roman
COPY EDITOR jgr703@jaguar1.usouthal.edu
If you’re anything like me, there has been at least one incident in your academic career where you hit a brick wall. If you have, then you know it ain’t pretty. Whether it’s writing, mathematical comprehension, or even study habits, many successful students have slammed into the same brick wall. It happens to the best of us, and the University’s office of Student Academic Success and Retention can help you recover from the shock. This branch of Academic Affairs holds responsibility for the multitude of academic success programs available to students. Some of these programs include the University Writing Center, Supplemental Instruction and Freshman Seminar’s peer leader program. The University Writing Center, located in Alpha Hall East, provides every University member with free (seriously, free!) writing instruction. Notice the word “instruction.” The University Writing Center doesn’t simply edit; the writing consultants teach the writer rather than focus solely on correcting mistakes. Acquiring help from this program is as easy as visiting their page on the University’s Web site and scheduling an appointment. Another venue for academic success is the Supplemental Instruction program, also known as SI. Nicole Carr, the Director for Student Academic Success and Retention, says that this program “offers students in traditionally difficult courses extra time outside of class where they can learn ‘how to learn’ for that particular subject.”
SI leaders try to schedule their sessions multiple times a week for the convenience of students. If you’re taking courses like Intro to Biology or American History since 1887, then expect to have an SI leader and use their services. Again, it’s free and may be the difference between a B and an A in a course. Last, but definitely not least, is Freshman Seminar’s peer leader program. Freshman Seminar, a course designed for incoming freshman, assimilates students to college life and teaches them skills such as critical thinking and note-taking among other things. Peer leaders are available for every individual class to answer questions and aid students in learning the ropes. Being seasoned college students themselves, peer leaders can offer their own experience to help new students feel less overwhelmed with the demands of their new surroundings. Aside from these programs, individual departments may offer tutoring for some of their courses. Some examples would be the MathStat Tutoring Lab in the math and statistics department and logic tutoring in the philosophy department. All of these programs and services are accessible, and you will probably hear about them or use them at least once or twice in your tenure as a USA student. According to Carr, a new website for Academic Success and Retention will bring improved visibility to each academic success program. These programs are excellent tools for students to do better in an academic setting; however, these programs will do no good unless individual students take the initiative to seek help and use them. Coming from a student who’s been there, they are definitely worth the effort.
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Take Advantage of Advising You Can Help USA Sports A Good Adviser Can Keep You on Track to Graduate Cameron Adkins
ASSOCIATE EDITOR cja501@jaguar1.usouthal.edu
Progressing through a college degree program can be a confusing task. It has become so confusing that every student at the University has been assigned an academic adviser. Academic advisers are your map to getting a degree. There are countless classes that are available, but only a certain combination leads to a diploma. One of the most important things advisers do is help you decide what classes to take. Advisers filter out all of the classes that are unnecessary so you can graduate as quickly as possible. Advisers are there to help you plan out your academic progress for every semester through graduation in advance. Planning ahead has many advantages. Creating and sticking to a degree plan will keep you from taking all of your difficult classes in your last couple semesters. A full course load of hard classes is not fun. Knowing when you will graduate is also a plus since it seems like it takes forever. Knowing what classes you will be taking in the future also helps with selecting a good teacher. Classmates and friends are good to ask about how different teachers approach the courses you will be taking.
This will allow you to know how hard the class is going to be before you take it. To some students it may be easy to decipher the web that is his or her particular degree program, but it is still a good idea to visit an adviser regularly. Some courses are not offered every semester. There are courses that are always available, courses that are available on a certain rotation (i.e. every fall or every spring) and some that are just offered every now and then. Your adviser will be able to make you aware of these things so you can plan around it. Aside from helping you find the right path to your bachelor’s degree, advisers can help decide whether or not you need to pursue a higher degree. Your adviser has most likely had experience in the field you are pursuing a degree in, so they can give good advice on whether or not moving on to higher education is necessary. If you are unsure of who your adviser is it is not hard to find out. Your adviser is listed under “General Student Information” in your PAWS account. If you are having a hard time finding it there, go to the secretary in the department of your major. The secretary will be able to find it in your file. Make sure to see your adviser regularly. It could keep you from going that extra semester.
Jake Wasdin
CONTRIBUTING WRITER jrw909@jaguar1.usouthal.edu
Both new and old students are looking for ways to become more active and get involved with South Alabama. Supporting athletics is a fast and easy way to get started. From student athletes to dancing to the Southerners to the Outlaws, it’s easy to get involved. The Outlaws are the chief group who raise awareness and pride in USA sports while uniting the campus under one voice. The Outlaws attend most athletic events including pep-rallies, basketball, volleyball, and key events in other sports. To join the Outlaws one just has to wear red and cheer as loud as you can. The Southerners are a group of people who promote the quality of South Alabama academics by acting as the University’s official student promotion organization. If interested in becoming a Southerner, applications and information will be issued in March. If dancing and cheering is your thing, the Prowlers and the University Cheerleading Squad may be just for you. The Prowlers are USA’s dance team that performs during the Jaguar basketball season. Auditions will be held on Sunday, Aug. 22, at 2 p.m. in the health department, room 2025. For those with a passion for directing the crowd’s cheering, the cheerleading squad is always in a peppy mood. The team holds auditions for annual positions and require a routine to be performed. Those interested in applying should contact Steve Clanton at 251-460-6268 and at southcheer@usouthal.
www.southalabama.edu/outlaw
The Outlaws may be one of the more colorful ways to help out USA sports.
edu. Female students interested in baseball can apply for the Diamond Girls. The Diamond Girls assist in the baseball program by hosting events, publicizing the baseball program and assisting on-campus recruits that visit South Alabama. E-mails are sent out before the start of the season, and positions are filled after a brief application process. Be on the lookout and keep your eyes open. Opportunities await at the University of South Alabama.
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21A Write for The Vanguard!
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22A USA Counseling Is There Get Free Career Advice The
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Rodney Thompson
WEBMASTER rodneythompsonjr@hotmail.com
“Our mission is to facilitate your educational, personal, and social development. We offer you pathways to success and wish you a fulfilling journey.” This quote can be found on the main page of the USA Counseling Services website. Counseling Services, you ask? Yes, and it is completely free to USA students. A team headed by Dr. Alvah E. Clark, Jr. is at your disposal Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. This team of licensed professionals is capable of assisting with most problems, including depression, stress, sexual abuse, or if you just need to talk. Appointments can be made by calling 251-460-7051. In most cases, students can find relief after a few sessions, others may require regular visits. College can be an arduous task, and life is no joke. The Counseling Services are here to provide a much needed service completely free to students. In some cases, if medication or psychiatric evaluation is necessary, the counseling services will provide appropriate medical references and recommendations. In addition to these individual services, groups or organizations can request seminars on the following topics: anger management, communication skills, career development, conflict resolution, diversity training, human relations training, leadership training, stress management, substance abuse prevention training, time
management and value clarification. It is important to stay physically healthy but just as important to stay mentally healthy. Even if you do not feel you need counseling services, it never hurts to talk to someone else when you are feeling low.
careers.actx.edu
USA Counseling can help you get through any problems that may come up in the stressful world of college.
August 16, 2010
Cameron Adkins
ASSOCIATE EDITOR cja501@jaguar1.usouthal.edu
Graduating from a respectable university does not do much good if students cannot find jobs after graduation. Utilizing Career Services at South will help students gain employment and build a career. Career Services at South can help students explore majors and career opportunities, gain job experience through cooperative education or internships and help graduates find employment. For those unsure about a major, Career Services gives students the opportunity to research different careers and majors and offers to help generate different ideas that fit the student. After deciding a major, students need to begin planning for the job search postgraduation. Career Services can provide students opportunities for internships or co-ops. By helping students gain job experience while still in college Career Services raises a student’s chances of getting a better job upon graduation. A co-op allows students to “integrate periods of classroom study with periods of paid practical working experience related to their academic major,” according to the Career Services website. Co-ops do not earn credit hours toward a degree, and students are still required to maintain full-time student status (12 credit hours per semester). Internships vary according to major. Some internships pay the student, and some do not. Some internships will also
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Career services can get you on the right track for the career you want after college.
earn a student academic credit hours. After graduation, Career Services offers the Career Employment Assistance Program. “The program works to connect students and alumni with local and national full-time career opportunities,” the Web site states. Career Services continues to help alumni by referring resumes to appropriate employers and creates opportunities through alumni that look for USA graduates to hire.
August 16, 2010
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August 16, 2010