THE VIDETTE
2017
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VIDETTE PREVIEW GUIDE
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Welcome to
What to expect during Preview June 5-8, 13-16, 19-23, 26-30; July 5-7, 10-14, 17-21 Compiled by ALI RASPER News Reporter
Vidette Archive Photograph
Students
Family/guests
Guide/group meeting: 10-10:55 a.m. at HewettManchester halls Welcome and general education information: 11:0511:55 a.m. at Center for the Performing Arts Lunch with guide and group: Noon-12:50 p.m. Advisement: 1-2:20 p.m. College/department meetings: 2:35-3:05 p.m. at various locations Conference sessions: 3:20-4:30 p.m. at Schroeder Hall Dinner: 4:30-6:15 p.m. at Watterson Dining Commons Redbird Beginnings: 6:30-7:45 p.m. at Manchester Hall Evening activities: 8-10 p.m. at Student Fitness Center
Morning sessions: Parent Services, Orientation to Preview, welcome and general education information: 10:15 a.m.-noon at Center for the Performing Arts Lunch on your own: Noon-12:50 p.m. at Watterson Dining Commons or Bone Student Center (recommended) Meet guide: 12:50 p.m. at clock by Williams Hall and Old Union Advisement: 1-2:20 p.m. College/department meetings: 2:35-3:05 p.m. at various locations Conference sessions: 3:20-4:30 p.m. at Schroeder Hall Dinner: 4:30-6:15 p.m. at Watterson Dining Commons Illinois State from a student’s point of view: 6:30-7:30 p.m. at Schroeder Hall room 130
Day 1
Day 1
Day 2 EXPO: 8-9 a.m. in the Activity Room at the Bowling and Billiards Center Redbird community, safety and general education information, course registration announcements, and parent induction ceremony: 9:10-11:30 a.m. at Edwards Hall room 235 Meet Students: Noon at Bone Student Center
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Who you should know on campus With over 20,000 students, it is impossible to know every single person at ISU. However, there are some faces, names you should keep in mind as you walk around campus Compiled by CLAIRE WEINZIERL | News Reporter
President Larry Dietz
Larry Dietz is the 19th president of Illinois State University. Dietz earned his Ph.D. in higher education administration and his master’s degree in higher education and student personnel from Iowa State University and his bachelor’s degree in political science from Southern Illinois University. Dietz first came to ISU in June 2011 as the vice president for Student Affairs. He is also a tenured professor in the Department of Educational Administration and Foundations. Dietz constantly makes appearances at meetings and social events hosted by the university and frequently visits with students on the Quad.
ISU Police Chief Aaron Woodruff
VP of Student Affairs Levester Johnson
Aaron Woodruff is the university chief of police. As chief of police, he oversees a full-service police department with 28 sworn police officers, 13 unarmed security guards and nine civilian employees. The primary role of the police department is to help maintain a safe learning environment so students can be successful. Woodruff said that although a safe campus, when there are issues affecting campus safety, alcohol is usually involved. “We know some students will choose to drink while they are here, but we encourage them to do so responsibly, for their own safety,” Woodruff said.
Since July 2016, Levester Johnson has been the vice president for Student Affairs. The Division of Student Affairs seeks to influence the campus culture for students to be involved in over 400 registered student organizations and to feel included and proud of ISU. Johnson came to ISU with more than 30 years of experience including 20 years as the vice president of student affairs at Butler University.
Melinda Fischer
Dan Muller
Brock Spack
Kristen Gillespie
Melinda Fischer is in her 32nd season with the Illinois State softball program. She is the all-time winningest coach in Illinois State Athletics history and was inducted into the NFCA Hall of Fame in 2010. She entered the 2017 season as the 10th-winningest active head coach in the NCAA.
Dan Muller is the head coach of the ISU men’s basketball team. Muller is responsible for all aspects of the program including hiring assistants and staff, recruiting player development, addressing the media, coaching and building the team each year. Muller just finished his 17th year as a coach. The 2016-2017 team competed in the NIT.
Head football coach Brock Spack joined the Redbird football team in 2008. He is notorious for his mustache, but his stern coaching personality will look to lead a Redbird team to the FCS playoffs for a fourth consecutive season. The Redbirds lost the national championship in 2015.
Kristen Gillespie was introduced as the eighth Illinois State women’s basketball coach on April 4. “I am beyond excited and extremely humbled to be named the next head coach at Illinois State,” Gillespie said. Gillespie comes from Division II Lewis University where she compiled a 51-12 record through two seasons at the helm.
VIDETTE AND ILLINOIS STATE UNIVERSITY PHOTOGRAPHS
Reggie Redbird Reggie Redbird is a staple to the ISU community, and can be seen at various campus events. The plucky mascot was first introduced in 1981, and the Junior Redbird Club named ISU’s mascot after famous baseball slugger Reggie Jackson. Since then, the infamous campus bird has undergone a style transformation. Taking a picture with Reggie is what many students consider a bucket list item.
FA M O U S R E D B I R D S A R O U N D T H E W O R L D Craig Robinson
Cecilia Suárez
HOMETOWN: Chicago MAJOR: Music GRADUATED: 1994 KNOWN FOR: Darryl Philbin on “The Office” and “Pineapple Express”
HOMETOWN: Tampico, Mexico MAJOR: Theater GRADUATED: 1995 KNOWN FOR: Monica in “Spanglish,” “For the People” and “Medium”
Doug Collins HOMETOWN: Benton, Ill. MAJOR: NA GRADUATED: 1973 KNOWN FOR: 1972 Olympic men’s basketball team, former Chicago Bulls coach
Jane Lynch HOMETOWN: Dolton, Ill. MAJOR: Theater GRADUATED: 1982 KNOWN FOR: Coach Sue Sylvester on “Glee” and “The 40-Year-Old Virgin”
Gary Cole HOMETOWN: Park Ridge, Ill. MAJOR: Theater ATTENDED: 1974-1977 KNOWN FOR: Kent Davison on “Veep,” “Office Space” and “Dodgeball”
Compiled by EMA SASIC | Editor-in-Chief Vidette archive photographs and courtesy Illinois State University and Tribune News Service
Cathy Boswell HOMETOWN: Shorewood, Ill. MAJOR: NA GRADUATED: 1983 KNOWN FOR: 1984 Olympic women’s basketball team, played professionally in the United States, Germany and Italy
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VIDETTE PREVIEW GUIDE
Welcome your new life during Welcome Week
Welcome Week 2017 Before classes start, take advantage of the different academic, social sessions created specifically to meet others, get comfortable with campus
HOPE DALY Features Reporter | @hopedaly_
S
ummer does not stop for incoming freshmen and transfer students at Illinois State University as they enjoy a week long of concerts and activities before classes start in August. Welcome Week is a five-day program designed to bring incoming freshmen and transfer students together with the university through different activities and sessions all week long. There are social events including Viva Las Vegas, Rec Rally, Concert on the Quad, Glow It Up and the newly added Flashback Friday and Quadchella. Welcome Week also provides events for students to connect with Bloomington-Normal through a community service project and Meijer Mania. Not only are there various social events, but there are also transfer student socials, a fraternity and sorority life informational and a mix and mingle through the Diversity Advocacy unit of the Dean of Students Office. “Coming in as a transfer, Welcome Week really helped with meeting new people and finding new people on my floor in the dorms,” transfer student Hannah Evans said. “It also got me involved with a lot of the groups on campus. Greek life really helped me as a transfer student, which helped me meet a ton of new people as well.” Although the week is focused on all fun and no work, there is a mandatory event on Friday morning called Your Redbird Life and academic department meetings in the afternoon. Students will also receive a free planner during the ISU Spirit Luncheon on the Quad. There is a variety of different departments at ISU that are involved in hosting these events during Welcome Week, but the entire program is coordinated through the Student Activities and Involvement unit of the Dean of Students Office. Welcome Week is run by Coordinator of Student Activities and Involvement Kate Piper, Specialist of Student Activities and Involvement Amy Miller and Specialist Dean of Students Julia Broskey, along with 27 paid student interns. The Welcome Week staff and interns plan out the events throughout the calendar year. Interns can gain a behind-thescenes experience in planning and implementation of the events happening during Welcome Week. Piper has been responsible for overall coordination of Welcome Week since May 2016, but she has been involved since 2008. “My favorite part is that we’re able to host events to welcome new students to our Redbird family,” Piper said. A lot of work goes into Welcome Week between the coordinators, interns and volunteers. “Welcome Week would not be possible without the hard work of the Dean of Students Office staff members, help from over 150 faculty and staff volunteers and support from several community sponsors,” Piper said.
Wednesday, August 16 8- 11 a.m. and 1 – 4 p.m. Watterson Towers and East Campus Residence Hall Move-in 8 a.m. – 1 p.m. West Campus Residence Hall Move-in 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Information Station open 11 a.m. – 8 p.m. Watterson Dining Commons and Marketplace at Linkins Center open 1 – 5 p.m. Res-Net Computer Clinics for Residence Hall students 5 – 8 p.m. Watterson Towers Smith & Madison Houses Residence Hall Move-in 7 – 8 p.m. Transfer Student Social in the Bone Student Center 7:30 – 8 p.m. Residence Hall Connections 8 – 11 p.m. Viva Las Vegas in the Brown Ballroom
Thursday, August 17 7 a.m. – 8 p.m. Watterson Dining Commons and Marketplace at Linkins Center Open 8 – 11 a.m. and 1 – 4 p.m. Watterson Towers & East Campus Residence Hall Move-in 8 a.m. – 1 p.m. West Campus Residence Hall Move-in 9 1 1 1
a.m. – 4 p.m. Information Station Open – 4 p.m. Backyard Bash on the Quad – 4 p.m. Classroom Tours – 5 p.m. Res-Net Computer Clinics for Residence Hall students
3 – 4:30 p.m. Fraternity and Sorority Life Information Fair 4:30 – 5:30 p.m. Fraternity and Sorority Life Panel Discussion 5 – 6 p.m. Transfer Student Social 5:30 – 6 p.m. Residence Hall Connections 6 – 9 p.m. Quadchella 8 – 10 p.m. Diversity Advocacy presents Café Soul 8:30 – 10:30 p.m. Rec Rally 9:30 – 11:30 p.m. Movie on the Quad: “Deadpool”
Friday, August 18 7 a.m. – 8 p.m. Dining centers open
1 p.m. Red/White Volleyball Scrimmage 1 – 4 p.m. Information Station Open/Classroom Tours 1 – 5 p.m. Res-Net Computer Clinics for Residence Hall students 2:30 – 4 p.m. Redbird Fan Fair at Horton Fieldhouse 3 p.m. Redbird Spirit Photo 4 p.m. Red/White Football Scrimmage 4 – 5 p.m. Trivia Contest 4 – 7 p.m. New Student VIP Shopping Event
9 a.m. – 10 p.m. Dining Centers open 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. Picnic, Paddle & Play 1 – 4 p.m. Sunday Funday at Bowling & Billiards Center Courtyard 1 2 3 4 4
5 – 6 p.m. Transfer Student Social 5:30 – 6 p.m. Residence Hall Connection 6 – 9 p.m. Flashback Friday on the Quad 7 p.m. Soccer vs. University of Wisconsin 9 p.m. – Midnight Meijer Mania at Milner Plaza
Aidan Walton, freshman
10:30 – 11:30 a.m. Nontraditional Student Orientation 11:30 – 1 p.m. Veteran and Military Connected Student Kickoff Picnic
Sunday, August 20
– 5 p.m. Res-Net Computer Clinics for Residence Hall Students p.m. – Varied Academic Department/School Meetings – 3 p.m. School of Communication Festival – 5 p.m. Community Service Project on the Quad
“Traveling to Ireland with the Big Red Marching Machine.”
7 a.m. – 8 p.m. Dining centers open
7 – 9 p.m. Concert on the Quad 9 p.m. - Midnight Up Late @ State Glow It Up!
10 – 11 a.m. Your Redbird Life 10:30 – 11 a.m. University Convocation 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. ISU Spirit Luncheon
Bird On The Street Street
Saturday, August 19
6 – 7 p.m. Transfer Student Social 6:30 – 7 p.m. Residence Hall Connections
8:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. Information Station Open 9 – 10 a.m. Honors Program EXPO
1 2 2 3
Monica Mendoza | Vidette Photo Editor
Welcome Week is a great way to get familiar with your surroundings and peers, and meet some new friends.
– – – – –
5 4 4 5 6
p.m. p.m. p.m. p.m. p.m.
Res-Net Computer Clinics for Residence Hall Students Transfer Student Kickoff Academic Success: Make Your Moment Count! Transfer Student Library Orientation Kickoff’Que on the Quad Compiled by CINDY HERNANDEZ | News Reporter
What is your favorite Redbird memory so far?
“Watching our basketball team play in the NIT tournament.” Julia Durnell, freshman
“My favorite memory would have been the silent disco in April with all my friends.” Zack Hogan, freshman
“I transferred to ISU this year and fitting in and meeting lifelong friends has been my favorite memory.” Emily Rojewski, sophomore
Compiled by ALEX HARRISON | Vidette Photographer
“Probably my last Homecoming and last football game. The whole year has been my last everything and the memories I have made have been amazing. Landing a job has been incredible also.” Haley Roti, senior
“Hanging on the Quad and relaxing and seeing everyone around has been fun,” Tyler Blanks, junior
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Getting your
ISU facts
straight
Photo courtesy ISU Archives
First graduating class in 1860.
43
Number of students enrolled in Illinois State University’s first semester in fall of 1857. Last semester, that number totaled to 21,039 students.
Today’s class breakdown Of the 21,039 current students, 18,643 are undergraduates. Specifically, 5,264 are freshmen, 4,146 are sophomores, 4,180 are juniors and 4,981 are seniors. In addition, 72 of those students are not seeking a degree. The remaining 2,396 of the Percent of overall population students live in are graduate sturesidence halls dents. Of these or university- students, 1,645 owned housing. sought their master’s, 446 sought doctorates or other professionallevel degrees and 139 graduate students sought certificates.
32.6
Emily Kinasz | Vidette Photographer
Cardio and weight machines, a rock climbing wall and a swimming pool are some of the features available at the Student Fitness Center.
More than a fitness center With various classes, activities offered at the Rec, all types of students can find ways to get moving
The overall mix
ISU’s gender split is fairly even, with 55.4 percent female and 44.6 percent male. Racially/ ethnically, 75.3 percent of the 21,039 students are Caucasian. Hispanics are the second biggest ethnic/race representation at 9.53 percent of students. African Americans rank third at 8 percent of students. Rounding out the top five, mixed students comprise 2.7 percent of the student population, and Asians rank fifth at 2.1 percent. The remaining students represent NonU.S. Citizens, American Indians/ Alaskan Natives and Hawaiian or Pacific Islanders.
2,043
students have transferred to ISU. The vast majority (1,674) of transfer students come from community colleges. The remaining 369 transfer students are from four-year colleges. Transfer students earned an average previous GPA of 3.10, and 3,694 students from high school earned an average ACT score of 23.6.
DANIA DE LA HOYA Features Reporter | @ daniadelahoya
I
llinois State University’s Student Fitness Center may be filled with every cardio and weight machine imaginable, but Campus Recreation has more to offer students than just treadmills and bench presses. The fitness center, nicknamed the Rec by students, was updated in 2010 to include facilities such as basketball courts, cardio and strength training areas, an indoor track, group fitness spaces, a pool and climbing wall. One thing students may not know about the Rec is that it is not just a place to work out. The Rec hosts various activities and events such as late night 5Ks or adventures in nature, often for less than $20.
Junior exercise science major Liam Higgins currently works for the Student Fitness Center and believes it is these activities that really make it stand out among others like it. “I would say my favorite part about the Rec would be the different activities and events they host,” Higgins said. “They host a 5K run, Neon at Night, which is very fun, and the Rec has camping trips and hiking trips through the adventure connection side of Campus Rec.” Higgins also believes these activities do not get enough attention from students. “I feel [these activities] are something that a lot of people don’t know about and should really take advantage of,” Higgins said. Last semester, Campus Recreation offered multiple hikes, some during the day
and some at night, a ski trip and a standup paddle boarding event among others. In addition, Campus Recreation offers students a chance to stay involved in their sport of choice through intramurals and sport clubs. The Sports Club program offers opportunities to play nontraditional sports such as paintball and Quidditch. Higgins recommends these sports programs to all students, but particularly incoming freshmen. “Freshmen should definitely try and get involved in intramurals,” Higgins said. “They’re a fun way to meet new people and be competitive, as well as physically active.” These activities are designed to accommodate a variety of skill levels and many welcome members who are at a beginner’s level.
Freshmen should definitely try and get involved in intramurals. They’re a fun way to meet new people and be competitive as well as physically active.” Liam Higgins, junior exercise science major who works for the Student Fitness Center
Students succeed through ISU resources Illinois State University cares about the success of its students. That be- Health Services Director Meg McKeon said. ing said, there are multiple campus resources available for students in Subject Librarians at Milner Library order to help them achieve their goals. Here are some campus resources In addition to the Julia N. Visor Academic Center, Milner Library’s subject librarians are available to ISU students that they can utilize the next four years.
Head of the class A total of 1,210 professors guide students’ academic journeys. That being said, 882 professors teach full time and 328 teach part time. Seven hundred and one professors are tenured, with 663 professors female and 547 professors male. ISU features over 400 registered student organizations. Compiled by STUART STALTER Senior Features Reporter SOURCE: Illinois State University
Julia N. Visor Academic Center
Student Health Services
When students are struggling and feel like they have asked their professors too many questions already, they should consider turning to the Julia N. Visor Academic Center. “We offer weekly group tutoring for most general education courses, one-on-one writing assistance for any student at any stage of the writing process and for any course, study skills workshops including such topics as time management, study skills strategies, note taking and talking to your professors, and one-on-one academic coaching (meeting with a grad student to help you get and stay on track),” University College Associate Director Pamm Ambrose said.
Being away from their primary care physician can be one scary thing about college for students. However, through ISU’s Student Health Services, students can be reassured they are in good hands and their health is taken very seriously. The Student Health Services provides a whole clinic with all the services students would get if they went to their primary care physician. “Only unless we have to send something out from the lab that’s too complex, pretty much all of our services are that $11 front door fee and that’s it, which is lower than most copays by other physicians,” Student
also available for students to utilize when they are needing extra help in their classes. “There is a librarian assigned to roughly 40 different subjects,” Associate Dean for Public Services Chad Kahl said. “Subject librarians often have degrees in the subject areas they support.” These subject librarians can often be unknown to students. They serve as liaisons with the academic units, can answer a research question and help locate a needed resource. Compiled by EMILY GRIFFITH Features Editor
Viewpoint
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Open your heart, mind the next 4 years MY VIEW EMA SASIC | Editor-in-Chief
Y
ou know how they say college is the time when you really find yourself and try new things? Well, they’re right. The two days you spend at Preview open your eyes to what’s to come at Illinois State University. You’ll meet other freshmen in your group (some might even become your closest friends), see all the RSOs and events available to you on campus and even fall in love with ISU’s charm. Picking out your first semester’s schedule will make it start to feel real – you’re actually taking a huge leap of faith and going off to college. By the time you move to your home away from home in August, your new life really begins, and it’s going to be tough in the beginning. Even with thousands of people around you at all times, you’ll feel alone. You’ll miss your
parents, friends and pets, but those times will pass. It’s kind of like what “Inside Out” taught me: sometimes you have to feel sad in order to be happy. In the midst of some difficult times, what I urge you to do is approach all that’s to come these next four years with an open heart and mind. It took me a while to encompass this, but once I did, I really felt myself enjoy ISU. As an only child, separating from my parents proved to be a pretty hard task. It’s always been the three of us, and we’ve been through everything together, so having to move away and be on my own for the first time ever took some adjusting. What made my longing for home stronger was a difficult roommate and floor situation. The person I was living with was not someone I could go to when I needed someone to talk to, and I wasn’t really fond of my floormates. I couldn’t wait for my freshman year to be over, and that’s not how it should be for anyone. One of the few aspects of that first year that really gave me joy was The Vidette. I applied first semester and started working as a reporter by my second. I closed
myself off to everyone around me, but writing allowed me to express myself to thousands of readers. Sophomore year was a little easier because I got through what I thought was the worst college could bring. The roommate situation was a little better, and I signed my lease for a one-bedroom apartment for the following year, which would take away all those sleepless nights in the dorms. I also met someone very special: my best friend. Kevin and I bonded instantly when we discussed our political views, which celebrities we gush over and how much we absolutely love movies and award shows. I made plenty of friends at ISU at that point, but our friendship from the start proved to be different. If I kept to myself like how I did freshman year, I probably would have missed out on all the great memories the two of us have made the past year, which is something I would have regretted. By the end of sophomore year, I loosened up and started enjoying my life at ISU, but nothing can compare to all that happened junior year. I became a news editor at The Vidette and fell more in love with my major and future career. I also
won a few scholarships, was nominated as a Robert G. Bone Scholar and secured a reporter internship with The Daily Herald in Arlington Heights, Ill. Also, for the second time in college, I met someone special: a boyfriend. I found someone I could watch and discuss movies and TV shows with from beginning to end, laugh about the silliest things because we have the same sense of humor and enjoy the small things. Freshman Ema never imagined she could find someone to connect with at that level, but I’m grateful I grew the past three years and allowed my heart and mind to welcome someone in. As I prepare for my senior year, I am eager to see what will happen the next nine months. I have the great honor of being this publication’s Editor-in-Chief, I’m surrounded by some wonderful people and I’m looking forward to my classes. Though there have been many restless, sleepless, emotional days and nights to get to this point, the journey was worth it. When I look back to my first day at ISU, I don’t see myself as that scared, quiet freshman. I’m now a confident, 21-year-old woman that approaches
beginnings, friendships, challenges and sometimes even endings with an open mind, and I try to accept them with my heart as well. I can’t tell you it’s always going to be easy, because it’s not, but you have to go through those tough moments to appreciate the many joys college can bring. If I could do some things over again, I wouldn’t have shut myself out from the world, I wish I met some people sooner and gotten outside my comfort zone a bit more. However, I probably wouldn’t be where I am today, so it has all been worth it in the end. Before you make this place your home in August, know that you’re going to be moody, sad and uncomfortable from time to time, but a bit of happiness will always shine through. Whatever happens between today and graduation day, accept it and grow from it. Open your heart and mind, and you too will see all the amazing things ISU will do for you. Ema Sasic is a senior journalism major and Editor-in-Chief for The Vidette. Any questions or comments regarding her column can be sent to esasic@ilstu.edu. Follow her on Twitter @ema_sasic.
How to survive your freshman year MY VIEW KEVIN SCHWALLER | Columnist
I
’m just going to say it: my first year of college kicked my ass. For everyone entering college, it’s your first big step into the great wide somewhere. It’s nerveracking, crazy and one of the biggest adjustments you’ll ever have to make. Whether you’re moving two hours or two days away from home, it’s as exciting as it is terrifying. Almost every senior in high school couldn’t be more excited to get the heck out. I get it; I was the exact same way. But the summer before your freshman year of college will fly by faster than you can
ever imagine. I had the worst time adjusting to everything: I went home almost every weekend, had a hard time making new friends and barely had the motivation to go to class. I was expecting college to be this amazing, carefree time where you got to drink, stay up late and eat whatever you want. Granted, I basically did and still do all of those things, but my expectations were most certainly not reality. And with that, as I enter my final year at Illinois State University, I offer you this little bit of advice: embrace it. To at least somewhat soften the blow of adjusting to life as a college student, one of the most important things to do is to stay organized. Very few high school students are as organized as they should be. It’s easy to slide by with disorganization, especially when you have parents at home being your personal planner. Snap out of that now. Buy a planner, set alarm clocks and
memorize your schedules because this is the time to learn about the importance of organization in the real world. Mastering organization is key to success and less stress. When you have access to quesadillas, cheeseburgers, ice cream and every cereal known to man, it’s almost impossible to not gain a few pounds. However, the “freshman 15” is totally avoidable. The Student Fitness Center is one of the nicest gyms in the country, and you can lift, run, take classes, climb the rock wall and much, much more. While I personally hate working out, I owe actually losing a couple of pounds in college to the gym. Go for half an hour sometime during the day a few times a week, and I guarantee you won’t come home for Winter Break practically unrecognizable. It’s also incredibly important to become good friends with your roommate or your floor mates, (or both!) while still having much-
needed alone time. My freshman year roommate has been my roommate every year. I will have gone my entire college career living with him. We created a dynamic where we could go from talking about absolutely everything for an hour straight to not talking for the rest of the night and watching Netflix or doing homework. Creating that bond and balancing that kind of relationship made us not only much closer friends, but introduced us to a solid group of people that we will have remained friends with throughout our entire time at ISU. Play games with your neighbors, binge on your favorite shows with them and get dinner with them whenever you can. The friendships I made during my freshman year largely contributed to my adjustment as a college student. Again – embrace it. There will be times you forget to go to class when there’s projects due, or when you’ll even forget you had a project due in the first place.
There will be times when you feel alone, and when you want nothing more than to drive three hours home just to lay in your own bed. But there will also be times when you do so well on a project that your professor asks to keep it as a model for a future semester. There will be times when you stay up until 5 a.m. just laying around and watching movies with your new friends. Ask your professors for help, pronounce “Schroeder” correctly and get ready to truly find yourself throughout the next four years of your life. Also, if you happen to be living in Watterson, I have an added bonus for you: The beds are pretty darn comfy. Kevin Schwaller is a senior journalism major and news editor and columnist for The Vidette. Any questions or comments regarding his column can be sent to kschwal@ilstu.edu. Follow him on Twitter @kevschwa.
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Where resting Redbirds sleep: Differences between each of the dorms ISU has three housing options for incoming freshmen, each with its own unique spaces
Before you move in:
Compiled by TIFFANY MORRISON News Reporter
The process of getting into each of the dorms is the same. ISU has a portal system, which is first come, first serve, where the student is able to pick which dorm they want, as well as which type of room they desire. Then, there is an option to request a roommate or look for a roommate. After finding a room, the portal also lets the individual pick their meal plan for the year, which offers multiple options to choose from.
Natalie Stuckslager | Vidette Photo Editor
Vidette Archive
Watterson Towers
Hewett and Manchester Halls
Watterson is known for its height, as it is the second tallest dorm in the world. The dorm has nine options for room types, each with its own style. Each floor is labeled with a different name, and each floor, both male and female sides, has one RA. The RAs try to plan events for the individuals on the floor to encourage interaction between everyone, since the set up of Watterson makes it a little difficult to meet people. On each floor, there is also a lounge area, where people can study or hang out. On the main floor, there is a mini workout room with limited equipment provided. “Watterson is so convenient because you could leave two minutes before class started and be there in time. Plus, it’s connected to the dining center so you don’t have to get cold during winter trying to get food,” junior Marysa Colarusso said. One of the few downsides to Watterson is the elevator situation. The elevator only stops every third floor. So, depending on where the student lives, they will almost always have to go down or up a few flights of stairs. This can also become quite difficult when trying to move in and out.
Hewett and Manchester halls are a block farther than Watterson, located on Fell Avenue, but still close to the Quad. It is the only dorm at the university that has nine-month housing, which lets students stay in a room even when the university is on breaks. There is also an option to live on a Themed Living-Learning Community floor. Here, students can meet others who have the same interests as them. Some themed communities include business, honors and music. The two halls have six different room styles to choose from, between singles, doubles, suites and quads. “The way the building is set up makes it a lot easier to meet people and get to know them than the other dorms. I’ve met most of my really close friends in college here, and I loved it,” junior Holly Nicole said. Vrooman Center is the main entrance to the two halls, which holds the Julia N. Visor Academic Center. This provides tutoring in a variety of different courses, and gives students opportunities to come to group sessions or the drop-in hours for help.
Tri-Towers Tri-Towers is the residence hall building located on North Adelaide Street, which is quite a walk from the Quad. It is, however, close to both Redbird Arena and Hancock Stadium. Tri-Towers is made up of three different halls: Haynie, Wilkins and Wright. Haynie has three different options for double rooms, while Wilkins only has one double room option. Wright has single and double room options, with a total of five different room varieties. “The dining center is the best one we have on campus and the bus system is super easy to work with,” sophomore Karys Crandell said. Since the location is close to most of the practice fields, this is where almost all of the student athletes live. Although it is open to everyone, the athletes get first pick on the rooms. The dorm also has a connected dining center, Marketplace at Linkins. Within the halls, there is also a fitness center, which is open later on most days than the one in Watterson. “Tri-Towers is the farthest of the three, but it gets you ready for the walk to class when you transition off campus to live in an apartment,” Colarusso said. Natalie Stuckslager | Vidette Photo Editor
Make ‘thyme’ to relish in ISU’s cuisine PORCHIA WHITE News Reporter | @porchia_white
I
llinois State University students have a wide range of food offerings in the campus dining centers that can accommodate to any student’s diet here on campus. Students with meal plans can have entrance to both Watterson Dining Commons and Marketplace at Linkins. Each offer a similar variety of food, but the two dining halls also have their differences. Watterson Dining Commons, located within Watterson Towers, offers options ranging from Chinese, American, Mexican and more. This dining hall is the larger of the two and often has a few more dining options. The Tex Mex station prepares Mexican entrees for students. Food items at this station include burritos, tacos,
nachos and quesadillas. Across from this station is the Wok station that usually serves different Chinese meals daily. Located next to the Wok station is the Homestyle station that offers a large variety of meals from day to day. Some days serving chicken tenders and other days serving meals such as Italian beef. Occasionally, this station serves special meals to students, such as steak and lobster dinners. “The best thing about Watterson is the diverse food choices so students don’t have to eat the same thing every day,” Campus Dining employee at Watterson Dining Commons and sophomore Alexa Zito said. Connected to Tri-Towers is Marketplace at Linkins Center. Though Watterson Dining has a wide range of food variety, many students find Linkins Center to be more satisfying to taste.
“The staff here is pretty cool and I think the food is better than Watterson, but I wish they had more choices sometimes,” Linkins Center employee and ISU senior Ryan Rubio said. One of the main attractions in this dining hall is the Mongolian Grill where cooks prepare students a choice between noodles, rice, chicken and steak on the hibachi grill. The lunch and dinner bars are also popular in Linkins Center. Offers vary at this bar day to day, but usually consist of an entree theme stretched across the table bar. Some days they offer popcorn chicken bowls, with chicken, mashed potatoes, corn, cheese and more all laid out across the bar. Other days they may offer options such as nachos or a chili themed bar.
VIDETTE PREVIEW GUIDE
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What to leave, bring home when coming to college DEB BETHEL Features Reporter | @ thedebbethel
Natalie Stuckslager | Vidette Photo Editor
Many freshmen decide to spend their money too quickly during the first month they are at school. This can cause major problems, especially when students run into financial emergencies.
Freshman faux pas First year college students make mistakes from time to time. As much as you may try, it’s impossible to totally prepare for everything. If you want to avoid sticking out, consider these constructive suggestions: Compiled by EMA SASIC | Editor-in-Chief
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Incorrectly pronouncing Schroeder Hall The easiest way to determine who is a freshman is the way they pronounce Schroeder Hall. Most people think it is said the way it looks, “Sch-row-der.” However, the correct way to say it is “Sch-ray-der.” It is a simple mistake to make, but one to fix before stepping foot on campus.
Not budgeting money well
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Whether it is a debit/credit card, Flex Dollars or money from parents, many students spend their money on everything that comes into sight. This comes with many consequences, especially when funds are running low after the first month at college. Take time to learn some valuable spending habits over the summer. Sales will be everyone’s best friend, and if feeling hesitant to buy something, it is usually a clear sign it is not worth it.
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Getting textbooks before classes start Gathering school supplies before the first day of classes is always recommended, but buying or renting textbooks is one to wait on. Online it will say a textbook is required, but many times students will never actually crack it open. Wait until the professor explains what is necessary for the class before foolishly spending hundreds of dollars.
Drinking in the dorms
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Plain and simple, avoid this at all costs. Drinking in the dorms is not allowed, and students will get caught by RAs or campus police officers. While this might seem like a way to bond with roommates or floormates, there are plenty of other ways, which are permitted in residence halls, to get to know each other. Additionally, drinking tickets and other consequences can result, and neither students or parents will want to deal with them.
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Wearing fancy clothes to class
There is absolutely nothing wrong with getting dressed up every once in a while, but class is not one of those places to do it. Classes range from 50 to 75 minutes, and sometimes even three hours. The last thing any student wants is to be confined in their seat by brand new clothes. Instead, find something comfortable with breathable fabric. Jeans and a t-shirt are always fine. However, if dressing professional is mandatory, make sure it will not cause too much pain by the end of lecture.
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lthough moving to college means living somewhere new for nine months, it does not quite mean the contents of an entire bedroom are also required to make a living situation as comfortable as one would like home to feel. One of the biggest mistakes a freshman can make is pack truckloads full of clothes and unnecessary items to fill up a small dorm room. Communication and organization are two incredibly important aspects of the move-in process that will allow for a much easier, more enjoyable move-in day and more comfortability while living in the room. The varying amount of living space each residence hall offers is a definite deciding factor on how much a student is able to bring, but it is best to keep it as simple as possible with the just basics. Each student is provided a dresser, desk, closet and bed, and there is really not much wiggle room available than for those necessities. Filling a closet and dresser might seem much too easy to some, so many suggest bringing favorite outfits and articles of clothing instead of a whole wardrobe from home. Resident Assistant for the past two years and senior elementary education major Mikayla Gear suggests bringing clothing according to each season instead of the whole closet. This allows students to return home to change out their wardrobe while also visiting family and friends if they feel homesick. All of the odds and ends that make home comfortable will make a crowded dorm room fairly uncomfortable, so it’s best to just bring one item from home that will help mitigate homesickness. Instead of endless trinkets one might think to bring, Gear reminds students to bring smaller necessities such as extension cords, batteries, tooth paste and extra toiletries Most importantly, incoming students should talk with their roommate(s) to coordinate who is bringing what. Save the embarrassment of bringing three TVs and two refrigerators and decide what each roommate can bring to make the transition easier for everyone involved. While shopping is always a bit hectic around Bloomington-Normal during move-in weekend, it is also smart to buy toiletries, school essentials and snacks after moving in – it can be a parent’s last treat to their student by ensuring they have everything they need to stay comfortable and full during all those late nights of studying. Deb Bethel is a features reporter for The Vidette and can be reached at debethe@ilstu.edu. Follow her on Twitter @thedebbethel.
Street Bird On The Street
What tips do you have for incoming freshmen? Compiled by KATELYN PROVOW News Reporter
“Keep in mind that your GPA isn’t everything. Make sure you study, but also hang out with your friends. The times you have with your friends are what you’ll remember years from now.” Jack Hobert Freshman business administration major
You know you’ve found the right group of friends when you can still have fun without forgetting why you’re here.”
Try to fid a great friend group right off the bat because they become your best friends and family at ISU.”
Get to know your professors, they can really help you, and make sure you always get good sleep.”
Maggie Lehr
Shabbir Motiwalla
Karen Ketay
Freshman special education major
Freshman accounting major
Sophomore biology major
Be open to new experiences and meeting new people because the people you meet in college will become some of your best friends for the rest of your life.” Kendall Wolff Junior elementary education major
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VIDETTE PREVIEW GUIDE
Preview Normal’s food spots at Preview
Finding a place to eat can be difficult, especially when it is at a location never visited before. In a community like Blo-No, there is something for everyone
Uptown Normal Firehouse Pizza & Pub 107 E. Beaufort St. Firehouse Pizza & Pub is your typical pizza place, but with a twist: an open bar connected to it for the parents. There is also a seating area for families that is separate from the bar. Firehouse has a 4.4 out of 5 star rating through 325 people on Facebook, making it a popular stop for students. Ranging from typical pizzas, to special pizzas, it is high quality and its customer service is exceptional. Sophomore Maclain Thornton is highly supportive of Firehouse’s works. “Their pizza is by far the best I have ever had,” Thornton said. “What is famous is their 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. pizza buffet and salad bar lunch special, so go take advantage of it.”
Windy City Wieners 106 E. Beaufort St. Windy City Wieners (WCW) is a great spot for many different kinds of foods. From hot dogs to burgers to gyros, WCW has it covered. Giving that Chicago feel, WCW has limited seating but is usually considered a take-out kind of food. It was voted the number one hot dog in BloomingtonNormal. It offers a daily food special for each day of the week, giving customers an opportunity to try its food for a lower price. Sophomore Olivia Fiorenza is an avid WCW patron and cannot get enough of its hot dogs. “I went with my friends the first day I was here and instantly fell in love with WCW,” Fiorenza said. “Definitely a musttry for anyone looking for affordable good food.”
Medici 120 W. North St. Medici is a more high-end family restaurant, but an ISU favorite, averaging 4.3 stars out of 5 on Open Table. Medici offers a variety of American and European bistros with homemade breads, seafood, burgers, steaks, stone oven pizzas and more. Joe Slane, general manager, is proud of what it has become over the last nine years in Normal. “I think we offer a nice, friendly atmosphere, with a good variety of food at a fair price,” he said. “Bloomington-Normal has been so supportive of us over the years, and I think we have a great staff to serve them.”
Around campus Tony’s Tacos
Natalie Stuckslager | Vidette Photo Editor
A quick walk to Uptown Normal gives those with an appetite many choices.
Bone Student Center McAlister’s Deli
304 N. Main St. If families are craving Mexican food when they stop by for Preview, Tony’s Tacos is the place to go. It is a family owned restaurant offering authentic, affordable Mexican food and classic American dishes in a comfortable atmosphere.
Avanti’s Italian Restaurant 407 S. Main St. From pizza and pasta to sandwiches and salads, Avanti’s Italian Restaurant is a stop Redbird families have to try. The restaurant is known for its Gondola cold sandwiches. Avanti’s Famous Gondola features ham, salami, American cheese and lettuce, and patrons can choose to have a half or whole sandwich. Other dishes include fried ravioli, mozzarella sticks, Avanti’s special pizza, chicken parmigiana and homemade meat lasagna.
First floor Those who are thinking about eating on campus and getting a true Redbird feel should stop by McAlister’s Deli. With its unique sandwiches, hearty soups and award winning sweet tea, it is one of the most popular restaurants with students, faculty and staff. Sophomore Travis Montalbano said he is guilty of spending most of his Flex Dollars at McAlister’s Deli. “Their McAlister’s Club is the best thing I have ever had, anyone who has not tried McAlister’s definitely needs to for the sake of their taste buds,” he said.
Burger King and Pizza Hut Express Second floor Pizza Hut Express offers a smaller menu, but students still get that familiar Pizza Hut experience. Personal pan pizzas, alfredo and marinara pastas, breadsticks and wings are some dishes served. Classic Burger King chicken sandwiches, burgers and salads are offered in the Bone Student Center location. It is even open for breakfast, so Redbirds can enjoy some early bird meals.
Einstein Bros. Bagels First floor Another on campus spot is Einstein
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Welcome parents and students
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Bros. Bagels for those looking for a quick meal, a cup of coffee or pastry. Those that are not big coffee drinkers have a variety of options to choose from. Smoothies, hot chocolate, iced tea and different types of juices are all available.
All STUDENT properties are walking distance from ISU!
Compiled by DYLAN STEVENS News Reporter
VIDETTE PREVIEW GUIDE
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Explore campus RSOs during Festival ISU ANDREW DOUGHERTY News Reporter | @addough
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aking place every fall of the new school year since 1989, Festival ISU has welcomed new and returning students with an exciting and fun-filled information fair located on the Quad. Festival ISU will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Aug. 31. This sprawling festival features over 300 Registered Student Organizations as well as 100 local community businesses and organizations that provide students with an opportunity to learn about the many ways they can get involved on campus and enhance their college experience.
“There’s a lot of students out there who I don’t think would actively seek out the different RSOs or clubs that ISU offers, and putting these organizations right in front them gives them that engaging dialogue.” Brian Deng
Former APAC President
Vidette Archive
Festival ISU brings many RSOs, clubs, services, businesses and more to the Quad where students get a feel of what they are able to join and be a part of during their time at ISU. The event is run by University Program Board, which is an organization comprising of students who are “committed to developing social, cultural, educational and recreational programs for campus.” Festival ISU features something for everyone, whether a student is interested in joining a Diversity Advocacy Organization such as the Asian Pacific American
Coalition (APAC), or the Live Action Role Play Club, this event gives them an opportunity to explore diverse and inclusive organizations on campus. “When I was a freshman, me and a couple of friends went to check out Festival ISU and were blown away by how much this school had to offer us,” Joe Hughes, special education major, said.
Is Greek the right fit for you? STORY BY MASON MCCOY | News Reporter | @Real_McCoy18
Taking part in the college experience means being exposed to a plethora of new and exciting choices, both inside and outside of the classroom. One of these choices that incoming freshman face is whether they would like to join Greek life by becoming a member of a fraternity or a sorority. According to the Dean of Students website, with 15 fraternities and 19 sororities listed as recognized organizations at Illinois State University, incoming students will have a wide selection to choose from. Academic and Community Service Chair/Officer of Sigma Lambda Gamma Natalie Herrera said those interested in Greek life should find an organization they feel most comfortable with. “My advice is to explore every single option, find an organization that fits you and make it your home away from home,” Herrera said. Coordinator of Fraternity and Sorority Life Alex Snowden said finding the right organization is critical for student’s looking to add something special to their college experience. “Students who tend to go Greek have a higher success rate of graduation, they’re more likely to stay on campus and not transfer, they have a stronger belief that they’ve gotten more out of their college [experience] and they’ve grown [outside of the classroom],” Snowden said. It is common practice among Greek organizations to require members to complete and log certain amounts of study hours to ensure that the students involved with these social organizations maintain a healthy and successful academic career. In addition to the academic component these organizations promote, Greek life members frequently engage in philanthropic activities in the local area. Pi Beta Phi President Brigitte Dietz said the sorority actively works with the community, including the
Katelyn Provow | Vidette Photographer
Freshman finance major Nick Yonce and freshman elementary education major Emily McGuire joined Greek Life organizations their first year at ISU. Yonce is a member of Alpha Sigma Phi, while McGuire is an Alpha Delta Pi sorority sister.
WHAT TO KNOW ABOUT GREEK LIFE WHEN IT BEGAN AT ISU: Sororities and fraternities have been a large part of campus life since 1972 CHAPTERS: There are 15 fraternities and 19 sororities recognized by the Dean of Students Office HOUSING ARRANGEMENTS: Greek Life houses are located around campus, and members live there between one to two years IMPACT: In the 2015-2016 academic year, the fraternities and sororities raised $175,054 for charities and completed 44,864 hours of community service Read > Lead > Achieve foundation, a program that supports literacy for children. “Greek life helped us find the women that make community service, sisterhood events and social events all equally enjoyable,” Dietz said. Snowden said the Greek life community will continue to grow in the next few years. “[There will be] eight new fraternities over the next five years,” Snowden said. “Our job is to make sure that every student that chooses to affiliate with a sorority or a fraternity has a positive, successful undergrad experience that translate into a lifetime of friendship, brotherhood and sisterhood.”
Recruitment Chair of Omega Delta Danny Guzman said the relatively new fraternity prides itself in its diversity. “I associated myself with Omega Delta the most because it’s the people I enjoyed spending time with the most,” Guzman said. “The connections that you make are so valuable and so strong.” If they decide to join Greek life, incoming students will have a lot of choices to choose from this fall. Students interested in joining should attend the Greek life preview session that will be held on the first day of Preview. For more information about Greek life, visit its website.
Rick Lee, an information technology major, said Festival ISU opened his eyes to the various opportunities for campus involvement. “If it weren’t for Festival ISU, I honestly would not have known about a lot of these clubs when I transferred here and probably wouldn’t have joined Greek life,” he said. “This event really did change my life in a positive way.” “Festival ISU is ISU at its finest,” former Assistant Vice President and Dean of Students Art Munin said. “These are all of our student organizations coming out and trying to expand their membership and include more student engagement opportunities along with a whole host of community partners that want to engage with our students.” Aside from learning about the hundreds of opportunities available to Redbirds, students can also walk around the Quad and enjoy the entertainment offered by the Gamma Phi Circus or perhaps looking for a quick 5-minute massage before heading off to class. “This event definitely benefits student in a very positive way. There’s a lot of students out there who I don’t think would actively seek out the different RSOs or clubs that ISU offers, and putting these organizations right in front them gives them that engaging dialogue,” former APAC President Brian Deng said.
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VIDETTE PREVIEW GUIDE
Slow down: What are your transportation options? Many students debate whether bringing their car to campus the first year is necessary or convenient. Whether you prefer to drive or use public transportation, Illinois State University has several options available for getting around Connect Transit Connect Transit is the Bloomington-Normal transportation system. There are multiple buses that have routes throughout town and many of them stop at the Uptown Station which is conveniently located near campus for students. Within this system, there is the Redbird Express route, a service that provides transportation around campus, to the dorms and to the Student Recreation Building during the fall and spring semesters from 7 a.m. to 3 a.m. on regularly scheduled class days.
ISU PARKING PAY LOTS: Located at the Bone Student Center and on the first level of the South University Street Parking Garage. Parking is available for an hourly rate in the pay lots. No overnight parking allowed in the pay lots. They are closed from 4 a.m. to 6 a.m.
Parking Parking is available for students with cars, but requires a parking permit. Located by each Vidette Archive Photo dorm is a parking lot called the ABOVE: Connect Transit buses are a common sight and well-used form public transportation in the ISU community. student storage/blue lots. These RIGHT: Green Lots require student commuter passes. They cost $87 per school year. lots are solely for students that live in the residence halls. Red and green lots are located all Hearing Clinic and at Psychological Services Amtrak and charter buses around campus near the Quad. The red lots are as well. Located at Uptown Station is Amtrak and only for faculty, and green lots are for student Luckily for students, there is free parking Peoria Charter services. The Amtrak train goes to commuters. Green lot passes cost $87 per year. during certain times and locations. There many destinations around the country, and stuThere are also pay lots and meter parkis open parking in the red (faculty/staff) dents often take the train home when they want ing. There are two pay lots, one at the Bone and green (commuter) surface lots Monday to visit family. Peoria Charter is more local and Student Center and one on the first level of through Thursday beginning daily at 7 p.m. provides charter bus services and transportation the South University Street garage. Parking and ending at 4 a.m. the following day. After from several universities in Illinois to the Chicago is available for an hourly rate in the pay lots. 7 p.m. Friday to 4 a.m. Monday, open parksuburbs and airports. There is no overnight parking allowed in the ing is available in the red faculty/staff surface Other charter bus services include Suburban pay lots, and they are closed from 4 to 6 a.m. lots and the green commuter surface lots as Express and Burlington Trailways. Some meters are located at the Speech and well. Complied by LA’NITA BROOKS | Features Reporter
RED LOTS: Restricted for faculty-staff permit holders from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. After 5 p.m., anyone displaying a valid commuter permit (except Park and Ride) can park in these lots until 4 a.m. GREEN LOTS: Restricted for commuter surface permit holders and faculty-staff surface permit holders from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. PRICING: Parking in the Bone Pay Lot and South University Street Garage pay lot is $1 an hour. Student Communter passes cost $87 per year. DISPLAY: Permits must be hanging from the rear view mirror.
REDBIRD ALERT: THE AVANTI’S® GONDOLA® IS EVERYWHERE.
Students at ISU report the Avanti s¨ Gondola¨ is taking over campus and, if treated well, will actually go to classes for you and ORDERING SYSTEM raise your grade point average. We believe this phenomenon was brought about by our ONLINE NEW online ordering system. If you have seen the Gondola¨ in action, please document this on Facebook or at #GOGONDOLA.
Order your Gondola ¨ online (the most convenient way to satisfy your hunger)
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VIDETTE PREVIEW GUIDE
PAGE 17
Navigating Illinois State University’s campus
Map courtesy of Illinois State University Office of Parking and Transportation
PAGE 18
Sports watch: What’s to come in 2017-18 Redbird seasons
PREVIEW GUIDE
Men’s basketball
Women’s basketball
Head coach Dan Muller’s squad is coming off a historic season in which he led the Redbirds to 28 wins, a National Invitational Tournament appearance, 17 Missouri Valley Conference wins and a co-regular season Missouri Valley Conference championship title. However, Muller is losing seniors Paris Lee, Deontae Hawkins and Tony Wills, along with junior MiKyle McIntosh due to graduation. Muller also lost junior DJ Clayton and freshman Andre Washington after to their decisions to leave Illinois State for new universities. But the Redbirds have firepower coming in, starting with Milik Yarbrough, who had to sit out last season due to NCAA transfer rules. Assistant coach Luke Yaklich was a busy man this past school year, as Yaklich and staff were able to reel in local hooper Taylor Bruninga, phenom Elijah Clarence and California Junior College Player of the Year Zach Copeland. Not to mention the Redbirds’ biggest foe, Wichita State, left the Missouri Valley Conference for the American Athletic Conference in April. Do not be surprised if this team contends for a second consecutive MVC regular season title.
New hope is on the horizon for a program in the midst of its worst four-year stretch in its history. Upon the firing of coach Barb Smith, who went 28-93 through four seasons at Illinois State, Larry Lyons and Redbird athletics brought in Kristen Gillespie from DII Lewis University to try to bring the once glorious program back into the limelight. The Redbirds can also be happy that despite a new coaching regime, no current players on their roster departed. Sure, it is going to take time and patience for this program to get back to its winning ways, but an overly confident and perky Gillespie is just what players need at this point in the game.
Soccer The Redbird soccer program advanced to the NCAA Tournament for the seventh time in program history a season ago, which included a 2-1 shootout victory over Michigan in round one before falling to Duke, 3-1, in the second round. The Redbird soccer program also has a new face at the helm, as Brad Silvey takes over the Vidette Archive reins after Eric Golz left for a head coaching job Paris Lee graduated from the Redbird team in 2017, but men’s basketball has signed Taylor at Dayton. ISU most recently signed a transfer Bruninga, Elijah Clarence and Zach Copeland for the coming season. from Mississippi State, Valentina Duque. Compiled by MICHAEL MARRA | Sports Editor
Intramural leagues bring out athletes in all MADDY WIERUS Social Media Manager | @MaddyWierusNews
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f you are an athlete at heart, but might not have what it takes to make the team — have no fear: Illinois State University Campus Recreation offers intramural leagues to all skill levels. The intramural sports program provides an avenue for ISU students to participate in a variety of recreational sporting events individually or as a member of a team. A wide variety of activities are offered and can be either short-term tournaments or weekly leagues for men, women or coed participants. “We don’t hold tryouts for our intramural leagues. We mainly focus on competition between Illinois State University students,” Intramural Sports Coordinator Drew Ison said. “Anyone who is a fee-paying student is eligible to join a league. Skill level does not qualify nor disqualify a student from being apart of a team.” Students can choose their tournament style: recreational and just for fun or competitive, with an incentive to win. “This year, we wanted to create a different environment between the two. Recreationally, you can play a
Vidette Archive
Basketball is one sport available for students looking to get involved in intramurals.
six-game regular season without playoffs, or you can play competitively for the championship,” Ison said. When teams win a competitive intramural sports championship, they receive a championship t-shirt, along with their team photo posted in the Campus Recreation Hall of Champions. Whether students want to be champions in the league or play for
some friendly competition, getting active and meeting other Redbirds is a common interest among players. “Intramurals were a great way for me to feed my competitive spirit and stay active,” junior mathematics major Joe Rodewald, who played intramural basketball, said. “I signed up for intramurals as an individual, so it was awesome to meet some new people and play the game we all love.” “I played competitive volleyball and it gave me the opportunity to do what I love in a fun environment. I met some great people and had the chance to take a nice break from my busy school week,” junior marketing major Alyssa Rapp said. Not only do intramurals provide fitness and a social benefit, they also strengthen team-building skills. Without coaches, intramural teams rely on their teammates to persevere throughout the league. “We don’t have coaches for the leagues — it’s all student-run. Whoever registers the team is a captain,” Ison said. “The captain upholds more responsibility to understand the rules and regulations and pass that information on to their teammates.”
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PAGE 19
Redbirds have potential to be champion this year MY VIEW MICHAEL MARRA | Sports Editor
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edbird football is coming off a 6-6 season and a first-round playoff exit, after narrowly sneaking into the FCS playoffs with the spot in the brackets. Last year, the team got off to a strong start. A 2-0 record and an upset win over Big Ten opponent Northwestern University, which was the first program win over a Big Ten opponent. From there, the season went downhill as the team lost five games in a row, settling for a midseason mark of 2-5. The Redbirds managed to turn the back half of the season around, winning the final four games of the regular season before losing their first-round FCS playoff game at Central Arkansas. They finished the season with an even .500 record of 6-6. Coach Brock Spack’s group has made the playoffs for four straight seasons, and if the team wants to make it five in a row, they will need to rally around a strong defense.
Vidette Archive Photo
The Illinois State football team celebrates a home victory during the 2016 season. The Redbirds advanced to the post-season playoffs, but were eliminated in the first round at Central Arkansas, 31-24 Headed by Davontae Harris, Alec Kocour and Dalton Keene, this Redbird defense will need to step up and pick up some slack the offense may have. As seen in the spring game, this experienced Redbird defense has the potential to lock down offenses, as the Red and White defenses only
allowed a total of seven points in the spring game. The big question mark on the defensive side of the ball is going to be the linebacker position. “We have about three good guys at linebacker — we moved some guys around. Again, we are very comfortable there because we were able
to redshirt guys and move a couple guys around,” coach Spack said of his linebacker predicament. “I think we’re [going to] be pretty good.” Which leads to the offensive side of the ball. Quarterback Jake Kolbe is entering his junior year and his second at the helm of the Redbird offense.
Top athletes to follow this year It was an exciting athletic season around ISU’s campus last year, as many Redbird teams flourished in their respective campaigns with talented individuals. Here are a few student-athletes to keep an eye out for in the 2017-18 season Gabrielle Cooke Gymnastics
The women’s basketball team endured its struggles last season but will look to bounce back with a new-look team and coaching staff. In her sophomore season, Katrina Beck averaged 8.7 points and appeared in all 31 games.
Michael Marra is a sports editor for The Vidette. He can be reached at vidette_mmarra@ilstu.edu. Follow him on Twitter @MikeMarraILSTU.
2017 ISU Football schedule Home games at Hancock Stadium noted in red
Butler University
The Illinois State gymnastics team is coming off a modest season a year ago and will likely been even better this spring. Gabrielle Cooke is a major part in the optimism for the future. Cooke competed as an allaround gymnast in her freshman campaign, earning all-Midwest Independent Conference honors in the floor and vault events, as well as a spot in the NCAA Gymnastics Regional. “I can’t say enough about her,” coach Bob Conkling said in February. “She always is looking to improve and is just a great young lady to have on the team.”
Katrina Beck Women’s Basketball
Kolbe started 11 of the 12 games last season, appearing in all 12. Kolbe threw 22 touchdowns, good enough for second in the MVFC and fourth on the all-time ISU list. But, the Redbirds also have a kryptonite on the offensive side of the ball, which lies within the offensive line. Sure, Kolbe and his plethora of weapons might be able to win some games on their own, but they will only go as far as the offensive line will take them. Entering spring camp, there was only one player that could be considered a near-lock for one of the starting positions on the offensive line, and that was Chad Kanugh. Kanugh started the last six games of the 2016 season. This is a team that is full of talent and some potentially big names on the campus of Illinois State, but there are going to be some growing pains for this team. If they can withstand those pains and find a way into the playoffs, this matured defense might have an opportunity to get Spack and the rest of the team back into the FCS Championship Game in Frisco, Texas for the second time in four seasons.
6:30 p.m. Sept. 2 *
Eastern Illinois University TBA Sept. 16
Missouri State University TBA Sept. 23 *
Indiana State University 6:30 p.m. Sept. 30 *
Northern Arizona University TBA Oct. 7
Southern Illinois University Carbondale Zach Copeland Men’s Basketball
2 p.m. Oct. 14 *
The abrupt departures of starter MiKyle McIntosh and MVC All-Bench player DJ Clayton left a void on the Illinois State men’s basketball team. Zach Copeland looks to help pick up the slack. Copeland was offered by a handful of esteemed institutions (including Big Ten’s Nebraska) but officially announced his commitment to Illinois State in April. Copeland spent his first two years of eligibility at the City College of San Francisco, where the 6-foot4 perimeter threat averaged 18.7 points a game and shot 47.7 percent from distance last season.
South Dakota University (Homecoming)
Ryan Guhl Football The ISU football team is expected to find success on the defensive side of the ball this season. Guhl impressed in the annual Spring Showcase game April 22. The Indianapolis, Ind., native led all defenders with nine tackles in the scrimmage, including a pair of sacks and forced fumbles.
Compiled by NATE HEAD | Sports Editor Vidette Archive and ISU Athletics photographs
2 p.m. Oct. 21 *
Youngstown State 1 p.m. Oct. 28 *
Derrius Rodgers Track and Field Rodgers had one of the most impressive freshman seasons for the ISU men’s track and field team. The Lockport, Ill., sprinter set countless personal bests, earned three All-Conference honors and set a school record in the 60 meters (6.94). Rodgers’ success landed him a spot in the NCAA Indoor Track and Field Championships in College Station, Texas, where he finished 13th.
Western Illinois University (Family Weekend) Noon Nov. 4 *
South Dakota State University TBA Nov. 11 *
North Dakota State University (Senior Day) Noon Nov. 18 * * Televised on ESPN 3 Ticket information available at GoRedbirds.com Schedule information courtesy Illinois State Athletics
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