04.14.20

NEWS 5

SENIORS ‘ZOOMING’ TOWARD GRADUATION

SPORTS 8

MULLER DISCUSSES DEPARTING REDBIRDS

Cold shoulder Amid COVID-19’s worldwide effects, widespread hiring freezes worry college seniors

TUESDAY, APRIL 14, 2020 Vol. 132 | No. 29

videtteonline.com

STORY BY GRACE BARBIC | News Editor | @gracebarbic  ILLUSTRATION BY FLYNN GERAGHTY | Art Director | @flynniegthatsme

T

he COVID-19 pandemic has managed to find its way into every aspect of daily life.

Senior struggles continue to pile up with each new development in the pandemic, but likely the most detrimental of all is the uncertainty of entering the job market.

After virtually graduating in May, the next step for many seniors is unclear.

April is typically the prime time to start searching for jobs, but now unemployment rates and the changing economy are putting a strain on graduates’ plans.

Ben Moser, a senior business major at Northern Illinois University, thought he had it all figured out. Moser was set to graduate in May and begin working in June.

“Now the company I was supposed to work for doesn’t even know if my hiring is a guarantee,” Moser

said. “I’ve been told to consider other options … I am now left scrambled trying to find a backup plan.”

Moser said he is looking for another job, but also considering accepting an internship and even looking into graduate school because “companies in general are barely hiring others,” he said.

Graduate school seems to be a common consideration among seniors who may not have thought about it prior to the pandemic. Senior mass media television production major Nate Doro was looking forward to getting a job right after graduation but is now questioning where his future will take him.

“I never thought I wanted to go to grad school, but I’ve definitely been considering it a lot over the past couple weeks,” Doro said.

Continued on Page 3

VIEWPOINT PAGE 4

BARLAS: HIRING FREEZES ARE A COLD REALITY

PAGE 2 | NEWS | THE VIDETTE

TUESDAY, APRIL 14, 2020

Lending a sanitized hand during pandemic Ways to help across Illinois

Ways to help in the Bloomington-Normal area

Donate to the COVID-19 Response Fund

Feeding the Community

Donating blood

The response fund is made to support community organizations across Illinois. Over $5 million has been distributed, the United Way of McLean County is a recipient of part of that $5 million.

The United Way of McLean County has identified food insecurity as a major issue facing households in the time of COVID-19.

The McLean County Chamber of Commerce, the Boys and Girls Club of Bloomington-Normal, the Bloomington-Normal Economic Development Council, and the Illinois Prairie Community Foundation have partnered with UWMC to provide 1,000 meals a day to members of the the community. UWMC can be reached at (309) 8287383.

Mississippi Valley Regional Blood Center provides all blood products to area hospitals including OSF Healthcare and UnityPoint Health. Blood donations are needed by the American Red Cross, as donation numbers have dropped during COVID-19. Blood drives and donations are conducted in sterile environments with healthy individuals. To schedule an appointment or questions about eligibility call (800) 747-5401.

Volunteer through Serve Illinois Serve Illinois compiles the needs of organizations throughout Illinois. You can search by county for volunteering organizations in the area. According to Serve Illinois, over 1,000 organizations need volunteers.

Consider using Charity Navigator For other ideas on how you might help during the pandemic, take a look at the Charity Navigator website https://www.charitynavigator.org/

SOURCE: BNPREPARED.ORG AND ALLINILLINOIS.GOV  COMPILED BY ELIZABETH SEILS | VIDETTE NEWS EDITOR  ARTWORK BY FLYNN GERAGHTY | ART DIRECTOR

SIGNS OF SPRING IN THE AIR ... AND ON THE GROUND

BN YWCA virtually recognizes Sexual Assault Awareness Month ANDREW DOUGHERTY News Reporter | addough

Despite how life seems turned upside down, nature continues its course. Signs of spring are popping up across Illinois. While people retreat into their homes, sprouts and buds are breaking out of their winter shells and taking in fresh spring air and sunlight.

PHOTOGRAPHS BY ALI RASPER | Photo Editor

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Bloomington-Normal’s YWCA will continue its yearly recognition of Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM) by holding all events virtually due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the Shelter-In-Place ordered by Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker.

Walk a Mile in Her Shoes, which was originally scheduled for April 11 in Uptown Normal will instead be held on April 18 on the YWCA Facebook page.

“The circumstances surrounding COVID-19 are out of our control but we are not letting that stop YWCA from honoring and supporting survivors of sexual assault. This day in age, we are fortunate to be able to have these events virtually and still share support with the help of social media,” Director of Stepping Stones Kelsie Langheim-Froom stated in a press release.

YWCA has asked participants to walk on their own at any time during the month of April as part of the recognition.

Those participating are asked to take pictures or a video recording and tag YWCA McLean County on social media to show support for assault victims.

Those interested in signing up must visit www.ywcamclean.org/walkamile2020 and participants will receive a free Walk A Mile T-shirt delivered to their residence.

Events such as Wear Teal Tuesday, Clothesline Project and Take Back the Night will be modified to adhere the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s guidelines.

For further information on the modified events for SAAM or sexual assault services offered by YWCA Stepping Stones, those interested can visit www.ywcamclean.org.

The Vidette The Vidette is published Tuesdays every week, except for final examinations, holidays and semester breaks. The Summer Vidette is published in June and July. Students are responsible for the content of the Vidette. The views presented do not necessarily represent, in whole or part, those of the Illinois State University administration, faculty and students. The Vidette is a member of the Associated Collegiate Press and the Illinois College Press Association. Subscriptions are available by mail to anywhere in the United States for $150 per calendar year. © The Vidette 2020 University & Locust / Campus Box 0890 / Normal, IL 61761–0890

THE VIDETTE | NEWS | PAGE 3

TUESDAY, APRIL 14, 2020

Events may be canceled, but networking lives on MY VIEW ANNA GORSKI | Guest Columnist

F

or anyone on Illinois State University’s campus, the cancellations due to COVID-19 have been heartbreaking. For a senior trying to provide closure to the best four years of her life, the cancellations have been earthshattering.

In February, I started carrying Clorox wipes before it was trendy and predicted the Chicago St.

Patrick’s Day parade was going to be canceled, but no one believed me. In the beginning of March, I slowly began to refrain from social activities during my final weeks as a senior, in fear that everyone around me was not taking the situation seriously.

I hate to say it, but the nerves gnawing inside my stomach were right. Now, only two months later, it has become the norm to constantly wipe objects down, wear masks in public, stand 6 feet apart and mourn the loss of events important to our identity, including COM Week 2020, an annual fixture in the School of Communication.

On March 11, Lead Intern Allyse Ketter informed the team that the

Helpful tips, resources to aid in a virtual job search

remaining School of Communication Professional Development events were canceled, including the Recruiting and Networking Fair on March 24.

The Chicago Bulls, WGN News, Fishman PR and many other organizations in the community confirmed their attendance and we were excited to promote the event HARD when we got back from spring break. This event was only the beginning of an incredible representation of ISU’s alumni.

COM Week 2020 was to occur April 6-10 on Illinois State’s campus. The weekly podcast on The Vidette’s website, “COM Week Countdown,” highlighted many of the panels, keynotes and events

that gave each intern an opportunity to explore their passion with ISU students.

If you’ve listened to the weekly podcasts, you can hear the dedication and excitement in each intern’s voice that has been revoked due to these extraordinary circumstances.

Right now, I ask myself if I could go back, would I join the SoC PD team again? Absolutely.

I had the opportunity to surround myself with positive experiences such as recognizing Ketter’s immense dedication, communicating designs with Viraj, brainstorming with Robert Martinez, appreciating Coy Suprunowski’s honesty, goofing around with Mattie Bean, celebrating Emily Kastl’s

engagement, getting teased by Julia Kopfman, podcasting for the first time with Kristine Loughery and discussing how we can improve the School of Communication together.

Our advisers, Denise Thomas and Tom Lamonica, guided our high energy to write and rewrite alumni bios, communicate with multiple professionals and understand the value of teamwork. I’ve learned that COM Week is much more than the annual event. It’s noticing the network of Redbirds who have my back.

ANNA GORSKI is a Podcaster and Photographer for The Vidette. She can be contacted at vidette_adgors1@ilstu.edu. Follow her on twitter @annabanana191.

W

hile many entities move online, the Career Center is doing the same.

Susan Whitsitt, Career Center Assistant Director for Marketing and Communication said that the Career Center continue to be available to help students achieve both academic and career success.

Career advisers are available to assist students remotely. Students can schedule a virtual career advising appointment using Hire-A-Redbird and can connect with them via email, phone, or virtual call through Zoom. The Career Center is also providing virtual drop-in hours Monday through Friday afternoons.

Here are a few resources to assist Illinois State University students with their job search and career development while away from campus:  Current job postings on Hire-A-Redbird or the Symplicity Jobs and Careers app.  International job postings on GoinGlobal, an online career tool kit to assist with identifying career opportunities abroad, located within Hire-A-Redbird.  InterviewStream, an online video interview tool to practice interviewing. It allows students to select questions by major and job industry, answer them, and review how they did.  Career Resource Guide, an online “manual” full of helpful career advice and job search tips.  A list of employers who are still hiring at this time, in addition to Hire-ARedbird. It is in the article on the Career Center website. It is updated as the center receives information from employers.

Here are the tips for those who are graduating and need help with their job search:  Make an appointment with your career adviser. The Career Center is still available to students via phone, email, or Zoom.  Utilize our virtual drop-in sessions for a resume or cover letter review.  Actively visit Hire-A-Redbird for the most current job and internship listings.  Make sure your most current resume is uploaded to Hire-A-Redbird so you can apply for any job or internship that is posted.  Prepare for future interviews using Interview Stream, our online video practice tool. Save your video and schedule an appointment with your career adviser to get feedback.  Update your LinkedIn page to reflect your most current accomplishments.  The Career Center is hosting Rock Your LinkedIn Profile a virtual program on April 16. Redbird alum and LinkedIn expert Bill Dwoinen, ’04 will provide strategies to help students build their professional profile and learn how to utilize it during a job search.

Information courtesy Career Center | Compiled by Meghan Fortunato | News Reporter Photograph by Anna Gorski | Photographer and Podcast Host

Hiring Freeze Continued from Page 1

Doro also said he had an interview before the pandemic reached the stay-at-home mandate.

“I have not heard back from them yet and it has been a month now,” Doro said. “I’ve been looking online for other jobs, but no one that I am looking at is hiring because their current staff is just working from home anyways.”

Phrases like “hiring freeze” are tossed around more often than usual given the financial circumstances of the pandemic.

A hiring freeze by definition is when an employer temporarily halts non-essential hiring to reduce costs. This is usually put in place when an organization is under financial duress.

The length of a hiring freeze is often used to avoid laying off employees, but the length of a freeze depends upon the organization; they may be short or long term.

It makes sense that this would be a step taken during this time, considering that non-essential workers across the nation have been laid off as a result of the stay-at-home order, 6.6 million people seeking jobless benefits as of last week, the Chicago Tribune reports.

This just adds to the job search struggles for graduating seniors.

The Career Center at Illinois State University said they do not have enough information from students or employers to

accurately depict how the hiring freeze is impacting the Bloomington-Normal area.

But based on information that the Chicago Tribune reported, in Illinois, 200,940 people filed for unemployment last week, the federal Labor Department said, an increase of 22,519 claims from the previous week’s slightly revised total of 178,421.

The Chicago Tribune also reported that in the past three weeks, 16.8 million Americans have filed for unemployment aid.

As unemployment rates rise, finding a new job becomes more difficult.

The Career Center is still offering its resources to students.

Susan Whitsitt, Career Center assistant director for marketing and communication, highly recommends students take advantage of virtual appointments that career advisors are offering. “The Career Center encourages student to take an expansive view as they look for career opportunities,” Whitsitt said.

“Career advisers can review their resume, experiences and skills to help them identify potential industries or positions where they might utilize them that they may not have considered.”

Looking a little closer, companies that are being impacted the most by the pandemic largely include those within the transportation, hospitality and professional sport industries.

Despite the fact that many companies are freezing new hires, this is not the only challenge that graduates are facing.

JJob competition is at an all-time high now that there are fewer opportunities.

“The biggest challenge to market myself through online methods is that everyone else can do it,” Moser said.

Being a student in the business world, Moser said he has definitely seen the competition increase greatly during this time.

“Companies scrolling through and picking out what they like and don’t like without ever hearing me speak can be quite discouraging,” Moser said. “It makes the process of finding a job more stressful than it already is.”

For Doro, going into the television production industry, he already anticipated having difficulty finding a job and just like many other industries the economic state of the nation and the move to online interactions provides no relief.

“My biggest challenge in trying to market myself for jobs is not being able to use my personality,” Doro said. “I think my social abilities are my biggest strength and when you are not able to meet me in person for an interview, you don’t get the full effect.”

While the Class of COIVD-19 may not land their dream job – or even ideal job – post-grad, there are still a number of opportunities to find work.

“I have a lot of work experience, specifically in the service industry, so I know I’ll get a job,” Doro said. “I just will likely not get a job in my desired field right away.”

Viewpoint

PAGE 4 | THE VIDETTE

VIDETTE EDITORIAL

TUESDAY, APRIL 14, 2020

Beat the deep freeze: Don’t let hiring halts stop you

I

t’s crazy to think that what we are living through right now will one day be read in history books.

Growing up, we read about the Great Depression and the Black Plague. We lived through the Great Recession in the late 2000s and early 2010s, likely witnessing its impact on our parents and family.

It probably never crossed our minds that we may someday feel the effects of something so far-reaching and so devasting in ways we never thought imaginable.

Since what is otherwise known as the 2008 recession, the job market for MBA graduates has improved. The growing job market has had a huge impact on the nation’s overall economic growth.

CBS news calls these years of job growth “one of the strongest labor markets in the decade.”

That growth is now in jeopardy due to the everchanging financial state of our country as a result of the pandemic.

While countless demographics are being negatively impacted, graduating seniors looking to enter the job market are having a particularly difficult time starting off their careers.

After talking with a

number of students in various industries, it is clear that the economic impact of the virus outbreak knows no bounds.

Not only are companies scaling back on hiring plans, but some are also canceling summer internships, freezing all hiring and even worse, revoking internship and job offers that had already been made.

As devasting as this reality is, it is something that students are going to have to embrace with an open mind and positive attitude.

This is something that is completely out of our control. It is okay to be stressed and frustrated, but it is not okay to give up hope and stop trying.

Keep searching for any opportunity that may present itself.

The new reality for graduating seniors is that they will likely not land a job that they would have preferred.

The Career Center at Illinois State University is urging students to utilize their resources. There are advisors available to review resumes to closely examine students’ experience and skill sets to help them broaden their career opportunities.

ISU has a vast network of alumni that are always looking to help fellow Redbirds and now is a better time than ever to take advantage of that.

With more free time on students’ hands during the stay-at-home

order, this is the perfect opportunity to work on crafting resumes, practice interviewing strategies, create a website or build a LinkedIn account that showcases everything learned and accomplished across the past four at ISU. Honing in on digital skills should be a top priority during this transition to online only interactions.

“The context for job searching is changing in today’s market and LinkedIn and social networking are more important than ever,” Maureen Roach, Career Center senior assistant director for Programming and Events, said in an interview with ISU news.

The best advice would be to be patient but resilient. Now is definitely not the time to be picky.

Working in an industry that doesn’t match the degree is not the end of the world. Once all of this madness starts to slow down, more employment options will become available.

As scary and heartbreaking as this whole job search can be, trust the process and be open to any opportunities that may present themselves.

Everything works out in the end.

Editorial Cartoon by Flynn Geraghty | Vidette Art Director

EDITORIAL POLICY Editorial written by GRACE BARBIC a member of The Vidette’s Editorial Board. Editorial policy is determined by the student editor, and views expressed in editorials are those of the majority of The Vidette’s Editorial Board. Columns that carry bylines are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily represent those of The Vidette or the University.

Hiring freezes are a cold reality for outgoing seniors MY VIEW JON BARLAS | Editor in Chief

I

t’s no surprise that the coronavirus pandemic has peeled away another layer of hope for seniors and job applicants.

In the wake of COVID-19’s expansive cancellations, online classes, Zoom meetings, and self-isolation, hiring freezes have now become a cold reality.

Recently hearing back via email from a job position I coveted, I was excited to read what the next steps were in the hiring process, only to be stricken by the news that the candidate search was canceled. Uneasiness and uncertainty settled in.

For college seniors attempting to enter the workforce, the job search is a high-priority process. That the

hiring process is on pause is another example of how coronavirus has temporarily stripped society of normalcy.

We live in anxious times, especially if your state has enacted a stay-at-home order with over 20,000 confirmed COVID-19 cases.

Essential workers and health care personnel work longer hours than ever before, millions of people are inside their home laptop-clad on their couches and wearing masks that have not only become a CDC-recommended essential, but also something of a fashion trend.

This crisis seemed to be too much too quickly. A month ago, cancellations of everyday life chaotically ensued. Work continued remotely as weeks went by. Classes soon picked up online and amid the busy-work to keep my mind off it, I couldn’t help but unintentionally remind myself that the last two months of my college career had been permanently paused.

No final victory lap, no graduation ceremony and no proper goodbyes.

Chicken Doodle Soup by Claire Wagner | Vidette Cartoonist

This disappointment, however, could be tempered by preparation for the first job out of college. Now, even that preparation seems to be more of a dream than actually getting hired.

Currently, many companies large and small are dealing with the global health crisis by either implementing hiring freezes or cutting staff to balance the stress of the economy’s current state.

Striving to manage the well-being and their current employees, coronavirus effects on the economy have halted much of the hiring processes due to budgetary concerns.

It’s so bad that even parts of the health care industry are laying off workers in hospitals at a time when the industry needs all the help it can get. Colleges such as the University of California Berkeley announced it is implementing hiring freezes in a statement that goes on to say: “The longer that normal operations are disrupted, the more dire the situation becomes. Current estimates place the budget impact of all of this in excess of

$100 million and growing.”

Even with these hiring freezes plaguing businesses, what about the government’s recent passage of a coronavirus stimulus check of $1,200? Would this truly offer aid to those laid off or cut out of the recruitment picture?

According to Science, the $2 trillion stimulus package recently passed by Congress does not offer aid to dependents claimed on their parent’s taxes or are over the age of 16. As for college seniors, in most cases they are deemed ineligible to receive a stimulus check. No job, no money -- what a combination.

For seniors, it’s chilling to see all the hard work of aggressively seeking a post-college job end up in the deep freeze.

Candor’s live update of companies freezing hiring because of coronavirus has become a mainstay in my website rotation. Why? Honestly, it’s because I’m unsure of what’s next.

It’s disheartening to have positions vanish before your eyes. But I know this is not the end.

Eventually, this too shall pass.

Everyone is in the same boat, waiting out the pandemic the best they can. Despite holding hope that these hiring freezes won’t last for long, it’s going to be a hard time adjusting to the work force in quarantine, unable to be hired for an unknown period of time.

While wandering through uncharted territory can be dispiriting, it can also be a true test of perseverance. Being patient seems to be the one thing that 2020 college seniors can do during this freeze. We can continue to put ourselves and our resumes out there for the job world to eventually grab and act upon.

It’s true that the current COVID19 situation may be peeling away some layers of hope, but for those of us hoping to someday soon join the ranks of the employed, thick skin will serve us well.

JONATHAN BARLAS is Editor in Chief of The Vidette. He can be reached at jgbarla@ilstu.edu. Follow him on Twitter @janveselybarlas.

VIDETTE POLL

What are your feelings toward COVID-19-caused hiring freezes?

Cast your vote at videtteonline. com or by using The Vidette mobile app

EDITORIAL BOARD JONATHAN BARLAS Editor-in-Chief | @ JonBarlas GRACE BARBIC News Editor | @gracebarbic ANDREW DOUGHERTY Columnist | @addough ANDREA RICKER Features Editor | @ ricker_andrea ELIZABETH SEILS News Editor | @SeilsElizabeth

TUESDAY, APRIL 14, 2020

THE VIDETTE | NEWS | PAGE 5

ISU to students: Keep ‘zooming’ toward graduation MAIA HUDDLESTON News Reporter | @maiawrites

would be.

“Advisers are aware that each student may be confronted with a set of different challenges arisorried about fulfilling graduation requireing from taking classes online or being separated ments after registering for classes without from university resources,” Woolen said. consulting an adviser?

Ultimately, students are still responsible for Illinois State University Honors Program Adviser their own education, according to Woolen. SchedSusan A. Woolen wants students to know their advisuling mistakes made during this time will not be ers are committed to helping students in the same forgiven by the university. ways they did on campus.

“Even prior to the university’s decision to “Students should also feel that their adviser is provide online instruction, students were responsomeone they can consult for advice. All advisers are sible for meeting degree requirements. In other informed about university resources and assistance, words, the responsibilities of advisers and stuso students should feel that their adviser is someone dents have not changed,” Woolen said. they can turn to if they begin to struggle,” Woolen

Along with personal advisers, ISU offers digisaid. tal registration resources to students at all times.

ISU advisers offer a variety of options for students “It remains imperative that students review their seeking remote help. academic requirements in MY ISU to make sure “Depending on the student’s preference, advising that their courses fulfill degree requirements,” questions may be addressed via email, phone, or even Woolen said.

Zoom,” Woolen said.

According to Woolen, advisers are making per“For instance, advisers understand when a situation sonal sacrifices just like other university faculty may be too complicated for email, so a phone or video and students. call may be the better way to address the student’s “In addition to fulfilling professional obligations, concern,” Woolen continued. many advisers have also assumed the full-time All university advisers are currently working from teaching responsibilities for their school-aged home, according to Woolen. children,” Woolen said.

Jennifer Haiden | Photo Editor | @jen_haiden “Similarly to faculty and students, advisers may Though this time is challenging for students and All university advisers are working from home, so advising at Illinois State has gone completely virtual. Advisers are available by have issues with internet connectivity, so patience phone, email and Zoom appointments. Through virtual advising students can get the same help advisers offer on campus. faculty alike, Woolen is confident in the advisers’ and adaptability become part of everyone’s toolbox ability to provide quality aid for students who during this time,” Woolen said. need it. advisers may also have their campus phones forwarded to their Woolen said some additional complications arise when advis- computers,” Woolen said.

“I believe our commitment to student success and an ability ers work at home rather than from campus. to adapt will work toward maintaining our high standards of Additionally, Woolen said advisers understand that some stu “I would suggest contacting your advisor by email. Some dents may not be as prepared for registration as they otherwise advising,” Woolen said.

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Illinois State classes staying all online for summer semester More cancellations and postponements are in store for summer 2020 at Illinois State University.

Classes will remain virtual for all undergraduate and graduate summer courses,

according to a release from President Larry Dietz, and will use a regular grading scale.

The university is planning to continue assessing clinical and lab experiences as necessary and are still determining whether alternative opportunities can be offered during summer courses.

The email highlighted that Preview, ISU’s two-day summer orientation and registration program for incoming first-year students, will be virtual. Once specific details and plans are finalized, more information will be released to incoming students and their families and

the campus in the coming weeks.

Dietz urged that those with summer camps, conferences, events and activities that are scheduled to be held on campus or sponsored by the university through July 31 should be postponed or canceled.

As far as on-campus and remote work by university employees between May and fall go, decisions are set to be made in respect to updated information and guidance received from federal, state and local government and health officials.

Any university-related, non-essential

domestic travel or all international travel through July 31 is suspended as well. Any essential university-related travel will require written pre-approval of the president or appropriate vice president.

The university has yet to make a decision regarding faculty and staff travel in the fall.

However, Dietz highlighted in the email that this could change in the future alongside public health concerns with COVID-19.

KELLIE FOY SENIOR VIDETTE NEWS REPORTER

Features

PAGE 6 | THE VIDETTE

TUESDAY, APRIL 14, 2020

Distancing doesn’t mean disconnecting

Maintaining relationships when couples can’t physically meet

STORY AND PHOTOGRAPH

BY ASHLEY BINKOWSKI Features Reporter and Photographer @BinkowskiAshley

R

elationships are already a struggle, but now they are facing an unusual struggle with the coronavirus pandemic happening. Maintaining a relationship during a self-isolation period can be stressful but with the given technology, communicating is easier, even though we cannot physically see each other.

The New York Times recently posted a story of a couple who started dating during quarantine.

Photographer Jeremy Cohen met Tori Cignarella on their balconies in John Brooks and Madison Boissiere from Aurora have being trying their best to still stay connected while they’re in quarantine.

Brooklyn, New York, in early March and started dating when Cohen flew Boissiere commented on the challenges of being in quarwill play video games and I will watch my shows,” Fis said. his drone over to her with his phone number on it. Ever since antine while in a relationship, “It makes it hard because John “We have been playing a lot of board games and trivia, we their interaction they have been communicating through their lives two minutes away but I can’t see him, so it sucks and it wouldn’t play games that often until this situation happened. phones, a drone and a giant bubble. Their story has gone viral feels like a long-distance relationship but we are two minutes We have been binge watching shows and movies which is and they are indeed still talking today. apart. It’s hard knowing he is so close, but I can’t see him.” fun.”

Dating in quarantine is challenging and couples do everyWith many challenges, it is not impossible to stay involved Not being able to go out on dates or even hangout has been thing they can to stay connected. in each other’s lives. Boissiere gave some advice to those who a struggle for couples. Fis talked about how the coronavirus John Brooks who lives in Aurora spoke about his relationare in the same situation and can’t see their significant others. has affected their nights out. ship with girlfriend Madison Boissiere and how they stay “Make sure you keep communicating with your partner and “We can’t go out to eat, there is nowhere to go, I feel like if connected while in quarantine. make them feel wanted and loved because it’s hard during it’s a newer relationship it would be harder to maintain in the “Right now we just try to text each other as much as we these times and you feel lonely sometimes, so just keep up the pandemic. One thing we would use to do every week was go to can. Madison and I FaceTime a lot; we tried seeing each other communication and effort.” the movies, but at least we have Netflix.” once but that was early on, so now obviously we can’t do that Some couples have the opportunity to be in quarantine toNow is the best time to try new hobbies together even if your anymore because it’s getting serious,” Brooks said. “We used gether. San Diego couple Adriana Fis and her boyfriend Chris significant other is not physically there. Utilizing the resources to live with each other and see each other every day but now have been staying in together. that are on the internet right now can still make communicathat we are separated there is less communication, plus hav“We each have our own activities and stuff to do so that tion possible. Grab a charger and make the most out of your ing online schoolwork interferes with communication.” way we don’t choke each other at the end of the day, like he days by getting creative with the technology we have.

Tips to stay connected ASHLEY BINKOWSKI Features Reporter & Photographer | @ BinkowskiAshley

ANDIE BERNHARDT | Features Reporter | @ndieb13

Quarantine has left most of us with a lot more free time than we are used to. Whether you’re at home with family or hanging with your roommates, it’s likely that the boredom has begun to sink in. If you’re completely out of ideas for activities to keep yourself and your roommates entertained, look no further because this list is just what you’ve been looking for.

Staying connected during a pandemic has been made easy thanks to modern day technology on our side. Here are some fun ways friends and couples can stay connected and have fun even if we are not physically able to see each other by utilizing technology.

Quarantine Activities

Online games There are so many ways to have fun with your friends online and online gaming is one of them. “Playing Cards” allows you to Photo courtesy of Adriana Fis play any standard 52 card deck game in San Diego couple Adriana Fis and her boyfriend Chris are staying real time with your friends. Create your own together while in quuarantine, and finding ways to still have date card game with this website, games such as nights while inside.

“Cards Against Humanity,” “Go Fish” and even “Egyptian Ratscrew” can be played. My here, https://www.netflixparty.com. friends and I even put the card site to the test, and it Join live workout sessions works perfectly, so try it out with your friends! Here is Staying fit in quarantine can be fun with your the link, http://playingcards.io. friends. Join an online training session with your FaceTime/Zoom friends so you both can be motivated together. Many Although we can’t physically be in the same room as businesses are offering free livestream workouts. our friends and loved ones at the moment, that does Orangetheory has 30-minute video workouts released not mean that they can’t be there with us via Faceevery day during this time. The link for that can be Time or Zoom. There are so many things people can do found here https://www.orangetheory.com/en-us/ on these platforms. Throw a painting party together, athome/all-otathome-videos/. 305 Fitness is another cook together, throw an actual party in your room studio offering free classes, this one being cardio and dance together. The possibilities are endless, get dance classes which are really fun and can be found creative with your friends. on YouTube twice a day at 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. here, https://305fitness.com/digital-events.

Netflix Party Have a movie night with your pals using Netflix Party. Fighting for the best spot on the couch does not matter anymore. Watch your favorite show or movie together on Netflix Party. It syncs up the movie or show so friends can join and watch together in the comfort of their own bed. It also adds a group chat so friends can communicate during the show. Check out the link

Activities to do with family, roommates in quarantine

Date night If you are in a relationship with someone or just love your friends so much, having a date night online can be fun. Create your dinner together, put a nice table up and light a candle and have a nice dinner with your other person. Catching up and checking in on your friends and loved ones is very important during this time.

Have dinner themes (red carpet, prom, or favorite character night Take turns preparing special meals Bake a fun recipe off the internet Have a movie night Prepare and present random PowerPoints Attempt a TikTok dance Have a Kahoot night to quiz your family on how well they know you Try and recreate your favorite Starbucks drinks Ali Rasper | Photo Editor | @alirasper4 Redecorate the house One activity that might pass the time Dress up your pet inside is dressing up your pet and havHave a scavenger hunt ing a fun photoshoot. Paint (or paint with a blindfold on and see whose Try a YouTube work out together creation is best) Go for an outdoor walk or run Have everyone read the same Binge watch a series together book and start a mini book club Play board games Have a spa night by making Build a puzzle together face masks and panting your These may be tough times, but nails there is no better time than now Start a prank war (at your own to bond and have fun with those risk) you are quarantined with.

THE VIDETTE | SPORTS | PAGE 7

TUESDAY, APRIL 14, 2020

Senior golfer David Perkins taking a swing at professional ranks JAKE SERMERSHEIM Sports Editor | @JakeSermersheim

Jennifer Haiden | Vidette Photo Editor

Illinois State University softball head coach Melinda Fischer giving a sign during a 2019 game.

Top of the mountain

Fischer’s 1,104 victories first among active coaches

KEN KANOON Sports Reporter | @Ken_k____

W

hen you look up winning in Illinois State University’s history, you’ll see many names, but one name tops the list and that name is Melinda Fischer.

Very few people can say they have won 1,100 softball games. The Illinois State University softball head coach Melinda Fischer is one of those few people who have.

It was ,Feb. 28 in Bowling Green, Kentucky when she made once again made history. Fischer coached the ISU Redbirds softball team to two wins against IUPUI (Indiana University–Purdue University Indianapolis) and Austin Peay in the Holiday Inn Hilltopper Spring Fling tournament.

With the win against Austin Peay, she became the 19th coach in NCAA Division I softball history to win 1,100 games. Further, she moved up to the 11th most winningest coach among active coaches. In addition, she is the most winningest coach in Illinois State University’s history.

Yet, she was so engrossed in her coaching and team preparation she never realized that she was approaching the historical milestone of 1,100 wins.

“First and foremost, I honestly didn’t know it was even approaching until the weekend before one of our parents asked Tina our head assistant coach: “Hey, when’s that glove and hundred gonna happen.” She said

something like two to four games or back to a profession, to a university something like that. I really had no and to everybody that got me started idea that we were even approach- on my career path.” ing that until that conversation However, even though softball has happened.” played a pivotal role in her life, she Melinda Fischer never thought a day like isn’t new to play- Fischer’s numbers this would ever occur. ing softball either.

“Absolutely not …

She played for the 1,104 career wins nothing like this entered Redbirds when she 31/34 winning seasons my mind moving forattended college in Nine Missouri Valley Con- ward. But as you stay in Normal and was a the profession longer … major factor for when ference/ Gateway Athletic you hope that you can the Illinois State Red- Conference titles reach some of those birds finished second 19th winningest coach in milestones so that your in the 1969 Women’s NCAA history players can experience College World Series. that.”

She then went on to Inducted in the Redbird So, what’s next for graduate Illinois State Hall of Fame as a player Fischer? Even though obtaining her under- (1969) and as a coach we are currently lookgraduate and master’s (1993) ing to stifle the ongoing degree. coronavirus pandemic, After a short time Fischer is still thinking coaching Eastern Illinois Universi- about when this situation will end and ty’s softball team, Melinda Fischer the time when they will be able to go returned to her alma mater and even- back out and play softball. tually took over as the head coach of “My next goal is to get back out on the softball program in 1986. the field, you know in this unpreceShe said she felt a different kind of dented time you’re taking everything joy, being able to give back to Illinois one day at a time and you’re preparState University, a place that she trea- ing for the future. We’d love to bring sures in her heart. our players back to honor our seniors “It’s not about me being special … I since we never got that feeling of clodon’t mean that by people looking at sure with this team.” me like that, it’s from me having done “Then, moving forward we want something special for this program to have our fall season but there’s so and been a part of something special many other obstacles, concerns and for this university … It’s also some- so many other things that need to be thing special to give back to the place taken care of before that can happen. where I graduated from. It’s about me The next goal is to just get back out being able to give something special on the field.”

Illinois State University senior golfer David Perkins always dreamed of playing a professional sport.

After a successful 2019-2020 season, Perkins looks ready to reach that goal. As one of the top golfers in the Missouri Valley Conference Perkins looks to transfer his skill sets in the professional ranks.

“Ever since I was a kid I dreamed of playing professional sports. In the last four years I developed every year,” Perkins said. “I feel like I am able to take that next step in the professional level. I am working through that process right now. It is a process trying to find money through investors and figuring out when the right time to do it.”

Over the last season, Perkins has proved he is ready to take the next step.

As the Redbirds’ No. 1 golfer, Perkins led the team with a 69.4 average.

Since the Boilermaker Invitational at end of his junior season, Perkins has been on a tear finishing in the top 10 in 11 of 15 tournaments.

That has built up into Perkins earning the 68 spot on the World Amateur Golf Rankins and 19 in the NCAA. “As a team, we were playing pretty decently. But individually I was definitely having my best year. All parts of my game were strong and consistent,” Perkins said. “I felt very comfortable. I was moving up in the rankings. I jumped a lot in rankings this year which is important.”

Right in the middle of Perkins’s final collegiate season, an unprecedented event shook the sporting world. With concerns around the coronavirus ISU’s season was canceled along with the rest of NCAA

Courtesy of Illinois State athletics

David Perkins chipping during a 2019 match.

athletics.

“I remember we were on our Spring break trip. It was 11 or 12 and the SEC canceled all spring sports and then coach got a text saying that the tournament we were playing in that week was canceled,” Perkins said. “After that, the NCAA tournament got canceled and I knew it was over at that point. It is different not being on the road right now. I don’t think it has really set in still.”

With the end of the spring season canceled, the NCAA granted a waiver allowing student-athletes to come back for another year if their season was canceled. While Perkins is planning on going pro, he is keeping the option open to return if necessary.

“Everything is leading for him to take the next step. On a selfish note, I would love to have him back, but it is time for him to chase his dream,” Illinois State men’s golf coach Ray Kralis said. “Each step has been a dream for him first playing in college now his next dream is to play professionally.”

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PAGE 8 | THE VIDETTE

Sports

TUESDAY, APRIL 14, 2020

CORONAVIRUS: COACHES REACT

Klysner: Coaches could not have prepared for this

Mara Best | Vidette Photographer

The Redbirds fell short this past season, now losing potential returning starters in Matt Chastain, Taylor Bruninga and Rey Idowu due to chronic injury, transfer.

‘I love them to death’ Muller discusses departures, careers of Idowu, Bruninga, Chastain

KEVIN KOSKI Sports Reporter | @Koski_

past years just not in a jersey on game day. I want to be able to help in any way that Coach Muller he Illinois State Univerneeds,” Chastain said. “I hope sity men’s basketball to be able to help teach some of team will look very differthe new guys things they don’t ent next season. Three Redbirds know yet ... I want to be able to made the decision to end their bring them up to speed as fast as careers. Redshirt junior Matt possible because that can only Chastain and redshirt sophomore help us in the long run.”

Taylor Bruninga decided to forgo Looking forward, Muller knows their remaining eligibility due to the positions left by Chastain and recurring injuries. Sophomore Bruninga need to be filled and Rey Idowu announced via Twitter thinks new recruits and returning that he decided to transfer to the players will be vying for those roles.

University of Tulsa for his remain“Harouna Sissoko is a kid who ing eligibility. sat out and redshirted last year “Rey is a guy who we loved, who is kind of that similar — 6’6, and he came and did a great 6’7 — athletic and tough, so he’ll Vidette Archive job for us in every aspect on and have an opportunity to have an Taylor Bruninga in ISU’s Arch Madness win over Indiana State in 2018. off the court,” head coach Dan impact on the team next year,” Muller said. “I think Rey was Muller said. “We’ve got some guys navicular bone—that was what he had. That was looking for a role that was a little coming in next year who definitely the main reason we waited so long on surgery bit bigger than the one we foresaw him having — at that four-spot especially, and the threecoming back next year. And in the end decided last year because if a stress fracture can heal it is spot— will be expected to contribute and take much safer than if you have to do surgery. Once that it was best for him to go somewhere else up some of the slack of losing both of those you go in it is always risky.” to play.” guys.”

Bruninga’s injury happened in a preseason For both Chastain and Bruninga the decision Despite losing three players, the team’s goals practice last year. to retire was a difficult one; both suffered remain the same.

“I was on crutches most of the year and injuries that kept them from participating in a “So, for next year — of course — it is to eventually had surgery in February,” Bruninga full capacity in past seasons. get back to our winning ways and be there said. “I rehabbed and played the first few games in competition for seeding and conference “The injuries have been affecting me since I of the year and then was sidelined for most of was a freshman in high school and over time, positioning for post season play,” Muller the middle of the season until the last nine or 10 continued. “To protect home court, we lost a they have just gotten worse, and they have been games.” happening more often,” Chastain said. “My lot of really close home games. We will have Even after surgery, chronic issues kept him injuries include five knee surgeries as well as a young team in some ways next year, we will from fully coming back. continuing back problems throughout this last have enough returners and guys that have been “Taylor was the guy who was practicing for season. I have had two ACL surgeries in my in the program but we’ll still bring in some 30 minutes a day, had to take multiple days off left knee as well as three meniscus tears. In my very talented young guys and we want to help right knee I have had two meniscus tears, one of just to compete,” Muller said. “I think everyone them grow, get better and just see if we can could see that he wasn’t his full self. He thought which I had surgery on this last January. I had put ourselves in position in St. Louis to — like about it and talked to doctors here in town my first ACL surgery when I was a freshman in everybody wants to — go to the tournament.” and specialists across the country and Taylor high school.”

As for Chastain and Bruninga, apart from decided that it would be best for him physically “He’s just been in pain a lot,” Muller said. helping the team where they can, they hope to if he didn’t keep playing.”

“He can’t really practice in full, couldn’t the last earn their degrees.

Like Chastain, Bruninga consulted medical two years and just made the difficult decision.

“I plan on graduating with my master’s in professionals, family members and coaching He thought it was best for him physically to not accounting next May,” Chastain said. “After I staff before deciding to retire. be competing at the Division I level.” graduate, I’m not sure what I will be doing. I am “It was a difficult process but after hearing Chastain’s decision wasn’t made hastily, going to speed time in the next year in order to multiple opinions and visiting a specialist in LeRoy native consulted a group of trusted figure out a job for when I graduate.”

Green Bay I decided it was the best decision for advisers before coming to his conclusion.

Bruninga plans on finishing his agriculture my future health,” Bruninga said.

“This was an extremely tough decision,” business degree and use it to get a job in Muller confirmed that although they will Chastain said. “It was something that I did agriculture sales or crop insurance. no longer be competing, both Bruninga and not want to do because I have been playing Again, Muller commended both Chastain’s Chastain will remain on scholarship and finish basketball ever since I as 5. After talking with and Bruninga’s careers. their degrees at ISU while also contributing to coaches, my parents and the trainer I decided “They both showed great toughness with how that for my future health that it would be best to the team in other ways. much pain they played with and how badly they “I will try to be at as many practices as stop playing.” wanted to compete but yeah, we will definitely possible and will be on the bench for games,” For Bruninga, the process was very similar. miss them, and they are both great guys,” Bruninga said. “Basically, trying to mentor and “He’s got the one, foot injury which is one Muller said. “I love them to death, and they are leader while not being able to physically play in of the worst surgeries and injuries that you going to be successful in life, it just won’t be on the games or practice.” can get,” Muller explained. “There is a lot of the basketball court.”

“I plan on being with the team as much as complications with that specific surgery on the

T

College athletics have shut down due to COVID-19. Many coaches have had to adapt to new roles, including Illinois State University men’s tennis coach Mark Klysner.

To him, this was a completely unexpected outcome.

“Professionally this has been something we as coaches could and have never prepared for,” Klysner said. “It has forced me to have to restructure my workdays and time at home and I guess the unknown of when we will be back to work and what we tell our players is the big question.

Personally it has given me a lot of time at home with family but at the same time I miss spending this time Mark Klysner also with my team as this is usually the time of the year we are in conference play and the most important time of the season.”

Despite not being personally affected by potential recruiting issues, Klysner empathizes with other coaches and athletes going through logistical hardships.

“This has certainly made recruiting very different from what we are used to,” he said, “Personally for me it hasn’t been too much of a big deal as I don’t have any essential recruiting needs for the coming year. It has been hard to see players who are committed elsewhere trying to figure out their futures …”

Klysner hopes that the team remembers the good times of the season and that they use those memories to keep them mentally afloat until next season.

This remains a very unique and complicated situation.

“I’m not sure there is a perfect way of explaining or telling the guys how to handle this situation as it’s something we have never prepared for in terms of a speech,” he said, “But I try and remind the guys of how much we did get to play this spring and the amazing spring break trip to Puerto Rico we got to take.. things that many programs didn’t get a chance to do before being shut down. As a team we just try and stay positive and reflect on the good memories of this past season and look forward to all the great moments ahead of us when this all blows over.”

The team was 11-7 before the remainder of their competitions were canceled.

MATT KALINOWSKI | SPORTS REPORTER

Hamilton, team adjust to life out of water With collegiate athletics on hold, head swimming coach Caitlin Hamilton has had to adapt to the environment. She provided a statement on how the team’s operations have changed due to the quarantine.

“As we all have transitioned into virtual roles, my main goal has been to make sure the student-athletes are handling the change in the best way they can. We have been Caitlin doing daily checkHamilton ins through our messaging app and started weekly Zoom team meetings. While everything seems uncertain right now, we want to make sure there is a small sense of normalcy and togetherness for all of us. Personally, focusing on the things we can still control and taking nothing for granted has been the best approach.”

The team placed fourth out of eight teams in the MVC Championships, while the NCAA Diving Zone Championships and the National Invitational Championship were both canceled.

MATT KALINOWSKI | SPORTS REPORTER