Category Archive

As I drove to work today I breathed a bit easier as I noticed that gas prices had once again dropped below the $4 mark ( not sure what the prices were like else where in the country but here in Central Indiana we peaked at $4.20 a gallon last week). Not sure how long the prices will be below $4 as Fourth of July is just a week away and chances are we will see yet another spike. I also recently heard that the price of steak will be rising as the floods in the central part of the country have devastated many crops (not to mention peoples homes) and so with the cost of gas plus the cost of corn that feeds the cows on the rise such affordable restaurants like Texas Road House, Outback, and LongHorn might all become a luxury of the very wealthy.

The “experts” have all been on the morning shows and the various news stations informing us how we can all save money and “go green”. They talk about how we should ride bikes, car pool, use public transportation, shop at our local farmers market, walk, go on a stay-cation rather than a vacation, recycle, grow your own vegetables, and the list continues. Now, while all these are great ideas and suggestions I am just wondering how realistic they are in today’s America. For instance, I would love to not drive and use public transportation however I live in Anderson IN and work in Muncie IN and guess what, there is no bus, train, trolley, or subway that goes from Anderson to Muncie. In fact, there is no public transportation system that connects any of the outlying cities to Indianapolis (example Indygo does not make stops in Fishers IN where a great number of people commute from everyday). Car pooling is another fantastic idea but how many of us live by our co-workers or even someone who is generally going our same direction not too mention, is on the same time schedule as us. On top of that last time I drove to Indianapolis I did not notice any car pool lanes. I know they have them in other cities but of course they are much larger and have better public transportation.

Growing a garden sounds wonderful as I have heard it is very therapeutic with stress relief and a great source of food. I live in a 650 sq ft apartment. I have no yard to grow a garden. Not sure what the rest of your living conditions are like but for me growing a garden is out of the question.

Walking and riding bikes. Where can I start, well again great idea but here in Central Indiana sidewalks and bike lanes are an anomaly. So you basically take your life in your own hands if you decide to walk or ride your bike anywhere.

However, I have started attending the farmers market and picking up some locally grown fruits and vegetables, and that has saved me money as well as they seem much fresher then when I get them from the grocery store. I have also started recycling. I have my own bin on the deck of my apartment and I recycle everything I can. I have noticed I have a lot less trash and now when I see someone throw away an aluminum can I find myself getting it out of the trash can and recycling it (may be a little OCD I know).

While we can all probably do a couple of the green ideas what about the big picuture? Will we eventually have to redesign our cities (both big and small) to be more self efficient? Or will we a large number of people start moving to the bigger cities (Chicago, New York, San Francisco) and the suburban life all be just a distant memory?

I believe we Americans took for granted our natural resources and our cost of living. And while we complain about the rise in cost of living I feel as a nation we are just waiting around for big brother to cut interest rates and open up new oil reserves. To me this is not just a glitch in the economy that will soon pass. The days of driving our giant SUV’s and trucks on a $1 per gallon gas are gone. It is time for us to really take a hard look at how we live our lives here in America and start acting and stop waiting. 

This is my first summer here in central Indiana not to mention at Ball State. And so far the great summer bake of central Indiana has not yet set in. I believe that my bones are finally thawing out after the Arctic misery that is fall, winter and spring here on the campus of Ball State. I have to say I have really never been so cold as walking to class in the morning in the middle of February here (and I have lived through several upstate New York winters). It is like the coldest air just hovers between the buildings.

But the grass is once again green the fountains are running and students are once again out and about the campus working on their lap tops outside the Atrium, sitting by the pond at the front entrance, jogging the campus grounds, or just leisurely strolling to their next class. I was unaware that there were this many students. As running from building to building in the winter I did not really stop to observe other students or even notice them, I was on a mission to the next warm building. The campus atmosphere for the most part seems to have relaxed from the hustle and bustle of spring and fall semester.

And since I am not running from building to building I have to say I am very impressed with the campus. (I started at BSU in January for the most part any place is hard pressed to look appealing in the middle of January so it is no fault of the campus.) I did my undergraduate work at a very small university and had always feared I would just get lost at a big state school.

 Well, I survived the spring semester and feel that I have just now started to get to know the campus and my professors. I am not sure how many of you readers stuck around for summer classes but, If you never did you may have missed out! Classes although intense (as professors are forced to sometimes cram as entire semester of work into 5 weeks of class) feel much more open and less stringent. I feel like I have so much more time to spend with my professors and get to know them, as well as, they get to know me. Again, I was always afraid that in a big state school I would lose that one-on-one with the professors I got during my undergraduate studies.

I feel I am finally getting around to feeling comfortable at BSU. My decision to come here has been one of my best as I feel that the education and experiences I am getting are nothing but first class. 

For all you computer techs out there you may have already heard about this new social networking program called Secondlife. For those of us who have not let me try to explain…..Secondlife is a social networking tool where the Internet socializing happens in real time. It is like instant messaging except instead of just a screen name you have what is called an avatar (a computer character that can some what resemble you in real life) and instead of just talking you can buy, visit, walk, watch, eat, drink and even fly (like you have wings and fly not like flying on an airplane). Basically, you can do everything you can do in real life (minus the flying). For the most part Secondlife is free. By that I mean it is free to create an avatar and walk around the different “islands”. Now you are thinking what is an “island”, well that is basically a piece of cyber space in which you or your organization can purchase and place your buildings on. For example, Ball State owns an island and it looks just like the real life campus. So your avatar and go and visit Ball State’s island and then if you get bored there you can go visit Yale’s campus or take a tour of Van Gogh’s work. You can also go shopping and purchase items such as clothes and food and they will be delivered to your house. You and your family could take a virtual vacation and with gas prices continuing to go up Secondlife might be a great vacation alternative. Now if I have completely confused you go and check out the website.

Now once you have checked out the website and created an avatar you may just want to check out Ball States second alumni event in Secondlife. Our first event was just an introduction to what was on Ball State’s island but for this event we are going to show a documentary film made by one of the students here on campus.

The student is a journalism student here from Iraq on a Fulbright Scholarship. Prior to coming to the states he created a documentary about a civilian hospital in Baghdad. The documentary premiered on HBO of January 2008. Not only did HBO pick up the film but it has also won an Oscar award for the film.

The 45 minute film will be shown on July 15 and will also include a question and answer segment in which you can talk to the student/film director of this documentary. If you want to know more about the film and this extraordinary student you can find a short interview at http://www.huffingtonpost.com/omer-salih-mahdi/diary-of-an-iraqi-er-doct_b_83259.html

Continue to check out the blog as well as the alumni web site for the showing time.

So the days of walking to the campus gym at just about any hour of the day and getting a quick workout in while chatting about what is going on that day/night with your friends are long gone after you walk across the stage and recieve your diploma from Ball State.

Quickly, you learn that after an 8 plus hour work day going to the gym to workout is the last thing on your mind and if you have children any spare time that you did have for yourself is now filled with driving to games, practices and homework.

And just for fun lets add the rising cost in gas and an economic recession. So less time and less money equals you NOT going to the gym to workout. Matter of fact, you may have already terminated your gym membership in order to help cut your costs.

Now maybe you are one of those peoples whom employer has provided a workout factility on the job site. If that is the case then the excuse of cost cannot be used in why you have not been working out. But what about the rest of us? There are numerous articles out there that talk about how to workout on the cheap. Between walking the dog to making your own weights out of canned goods and milk cartons or buying the latest Tae Bo dvd collection you can pretty much get the same workout as you would at the local gym.

But really although all these sugestions are great and could in theory work when was the last you thought “you know what tonight I think I will go for a quick jog or walk with some canned goods and use them as weights.” Or how about the workout DVDs? Ever had a bad day at work come home and pop in Billy Blanks or Richard Simmons and thought you could just beat the smiles off their faces. I mean really when have you ever seen anyone smiling that much when working out? It is like they have no central nervous system.

But what if working out wasn’t dreaded activity but a game? Not like basketball, golf, or raquetball but a video game? What if all you had to do was walk out to your livingroom, bedroom or gameroom turn on your video game system and be able to workout? No Billy Blanks or Richard Simmons cheering you with thier inspirational  words, music, and smiles.

Well there are no more what if’s as  Nintendo Wii has just launched  “Wii Fit” that focuses on physical well-being.The games range from mental self-improvement to weight loss and yoga instruction. In fact, one such game called “My Weight Loss Coach” enables players to upload real walking data into the game.

Another game to hit the market (although it is not billed as a fitness game) is Active Life: Outdoor Challenge. The game touts itself as “a fun and easy way to get off the couch and get hearts pumping,” relies on a pressure senitive floor mat that requires players to run or jump in place on order to control thier onscreen charater. In addition, the charater’s physical appearance is linked to how well you play the game.

Is this the wave of the future or just another gimick that claims to have health benefits? I guess we will just have to wait and see.

Open up a newspaper, turn on the evening news, click open msn.com. It is all over the headlines. It is our current economic state, and the outlook does not look very promising. As of April 7, 2008 the U.S economy has lost 232,00 jobs and that is in just the first quarter of 2008. With the rising cost of living and the downward trend in the job market many graduates will be returning back to their parents homes in order to try and pay down some of their college loans and save money so that they at least have a chance of survival in the “real world”.

On the other hand some students will choose to remain in school in order to attain their masters degree. While there are some professions that require graduate degrees even for entry level positions ( for example: psychology) is it a good idea for other soon to be gradutes to stay in school? For example, should business majors continue and get their MBA first before getting any real job experience? Or should communication students continue and get their graduate degrees without any job experience? Or should they all stay and get their graduate degrees while they are young and independent? Are internships enough to compensate for real experience?

Coming from a student (me) who considered going to graduate school right out or undergrad, I am glad I waited. Research shows that most people who graduate higher education rarely get a job in what major they studied in college. I can attest to this statement as I studied journalism in undergrad and upon graduation went right into sports marketing. During my time spent in the sports industry I cannot say I really used any of my journalism skills I honed in my undergrad course work. Now, I always knew I wanted to go back and get my masters degree but in what changed like the wind. I looked into sports administration and then sports marketing then back to sports administration and then I even thought about getting my MBA. I am now 29 and I have left the sports industry. I am currently a full time graduate student in the journalism program here at Ball State.  My advice to the graduating class of 08…go out there experiment with your job choices. Enjoy your 20s and then if you still desire the graduate degree go back. You will be much more marketable with experience (any) and a graduate degree.

Not sure how I did it, but somehow I’m only 12 days away from graduating from Ball State University!  I BARELY SQUEEKED BY…not in terms of passing classes, but in terms of getting all the necessary requirements completed.  At BSU, everyone is required to pass a writing competency exam before they are allowed to officially graduate.  You have two chances to pass the exam but if you are unable to, you must take another English class to satisfy the requirement.  Being the master procrastinator that I have evolved into, I OBVIOUSLY waited until the absolute last chance to take the exam. Mind you, you are able to take the exam as a junior so basically I have procrastinated for 2 years!  Luckily, I passed, but soon after found out that you had to register for graduation.  Register for graduation?  Why would I have to do that?  Doesn’t Ball State know that I want to graduate?  I guess you were supposed to “register” back in September …so I’m only like a half a year late, no biggie! 

Long story short, I’ve got all that behind me.  I’ve passed the writing comp, I’m registered for graduation, and I finally bought my cap and gown.  I AM READY. 

It’s so cliche, but it really does seem like only yesterday that my parents moved me into Lafollette.  I can remember every detail about my freshmen year.  Being in a fraternity, I have always heard “it goes by fast, make every day count” whenever alumni would come back to town.  Ignorantly, I would dismiss their remarks, but now I see exactly what they meant.  It has gone by quickly, it seems like in a blink of an eye my college career has passed.  I can’t believe its over.

Time to be a “big boy” now.  It looks like I’m going to have two offers on the table by the end of the week.  401k plans? health benefits?  LIFE INSURANCE?  I dont even know what that stuff is!  O well- here I come, watch out world!

Goodbye Ball State! 

CHICAGO HERE I COME!

It’s that time of year, graduation! As seniors pick up their caps, gowns, announcements, and thank you cards, students of all grades begin to reflect on what their futures will hold. Seniors think of new job opportunities; juniors think of what it will be like when they graduate; and sophomores and freshmen think of how much they want to be seniors.

Graduation can be such a hectic time for the senior class. There is so much to do and remember. For instance, getting through finals, sending resumes, and thinking about where their lives will lead them next can make anyone go through life without stopping to take a break every now and again.

My advice is to stop and smell the roses. Enjoy being a senior and spending your last few weeks as a student. After all, this is the only time you will be an undergraduate. Speaking of enjoying yourself, seniors, have you thought about coming to the St.A.R.T. Senior Congrats Party?

The Senior Congrats “Fiesta” Party is one of the best (and last) ways to celebrate graduation here at Ball State. It is held at the Alumni Center on the Friday before Commencement. There will be the infamous Carter, Papa Johns, nachos, music, games, dancing, free t-shirts, give-a-ways, and did I mention FREE T-SHIRTS? This is one of the coolest parties on campus, everything is free, and it is just for you, senior class.

So, take my advice. Stop and smell the roses. Come out to the Senior Congrats party. Say goodbye to your friends, enjoy free stuff, and take advantage of what this great opportunity has to offer.

By: Arica T.

4.11.08

Yesterday Chelsea Clinton visited Ball State University and Butler University.  Based on the current reports from the media, her visit to Butler proved to be more memorable than her visit to Ball State…and not for the right reasons.

A student at Butler University asked Ms. Clinton about the Monica Lewinsky scandal while her father was in office, and her retort was simple, yet effective, “None of your business.”  Before giving this simple answer Chelsea said that in the eighty-plus schools she’s visited so far, no one had the gull to ask her such a personal question.  So of course, this infringement on her personal life and the personal life of her family has now hit every major TV station locally and made national news.  Channel 8 News has a public poll today online about what happened, and the guy who asked the question was already on a national morning television show today!  This whole “ordeal” leaves me wondering, “Is it really that big of an issue?”

 I agree that the personal lives of the Clinton family, especially when talking about an affair, should stay personal.  However, this scandal was already made public when it happened, and Chelsea (as well as her family) should know that questions such as the one the Butler student asked are going to arise.  Not to mention, the question wasn’t asked to be spiteful.  He said that he was a strong supporter of the Clinton campaign and planned on voting for her in the upcoming election.  The question was asked in order to gage how the former First Lady and upcoming presidential hopeful would handle tough situations that would be brought to the light of the media if she won.

Personally, I think this is just another example of the media taking what may deserve to be a five o’clock news story and turning it into a week-long, drug out, unnecessary mess.  The Clintons have been in the media for long enough now to know that unwanted questions may arise, but they are going to get asked and often.  I guess a good way to look at it is that at least the question wasn’t asked here at Ball State.

-Cassie Derado

Spring break is over. The break that I looked forward too since my last break which was for christmas. As of today, I have 25 days until I’m done with my freshman year. FRESHMAN YEAR! Goodness I feel so old, even though in reality I’m not. I am only 18 but I guess dealing with college (I.e. homework, class, work, volunteering, school activities and trying to juggling my time between family and friends.) seems to take it’s tole on me. But I must admit, I can honestly say I’ve enjoyed my first year here at Ball State University.

This week (3/21-3/28) I have many things to do such as attend many meetings, go to events and study for exams. For example I’ve was just assigned my very own soccer team through the Muncie Area Career Center (MACC). Dealing with the set up of practice and being labelled as a “coach” is somewhat intimidating but I can do it! It’s all about having fun right? (I thought so too) This weekend I also have an opportunity to go the the Indianapolis Childrens Museum with the Student Alumni Relation Team (St.A.R.T.).  It will be an all day event and I can’t wait! Other than my meetings and activities, school work is my priority right now. Studying for exam after exam and writing and revising paper after paper! It happens, right? Oh well git r done! Well I must bid farewell because political science is screaming my name saying, “Sally, please read me. Just do it.” Needless to say but, I’m overjoyed I can’t wait (Hope you caught the sense of saracasm is my voice!) Summer here I come! Sophemore year here I come! Life-let’s rock and roll!

 Sally Prosen- Ball State University-Freshman. Majoring in Telecommunications with a focus in News Media and a minor in Leadership. Hometown: Cincinnati, Ohio

Over the weekend we found out that Ms. Clinton would be visiting our campus. Without much time to prepare Ball State set her up a spot to speak in the AJ building. Sean Astin came with her. In case you are wondering who this Sean Astin is… he was Rudy! Need I say more? He also was in Lord of the Rings and one of my all time favorites Goonies. He spoke for about 15 mins before Chelsea took over. 

Putting politics aside, as I know everyone has their own opinion and of course everyone is right… she did a really good job. She spoke confidently with poise and perfectionism. She was asked some very tough questions about health care, financial aid, the war in Iraq and NAFTA and didn’t stumble once. I cannot imagine how much time she has to spend sharpening her skills to make sure she can perform at the top of her game every time she does a Q & A. One never knows what question will be asked next.

Considering her performance and her family I have a feeling this is just the start to what could be a long career for her.

s fulton

Starting the day after Spring Break Ball State University will be considered a “smoke free campus.”  What does that mean for us students?  Well for those of us that don’t smoke it is a breath of fresh air, literally.  However, the students who happened to fall into that bad habit, which is not the easiest to break, are now put into a quarantine type situation and forced into the worst parts of campus.  Some areas are in unlit spaces, on the cow path, and in numerous other places which are not exactly deemed “friendly.”

I’m sure that those people who do smoke are not happy about this.  In fact, the most they can be is understanding.  I’m not sure exactly the percentage of students that are smokers but it’s not a small number!  If it was then they wouldn’t be a “problem” and Ball State wouldn’t have had to put so much money into forcing them into their little pens called “designated smoking areas.”

So all I’ve done so far is complain.  I’ve talked about how the smokers are being treated, basically, with cruelty and how Ball State has spent so much money on this new initiative.  Quite frankly I’m not too happy because I think it could have been done in a much friendlier fashion which would have skipped violating the rights that any American should…especially outdoors!

Here’s what I suggest.  We talked about this problem in my Cultural and Social Issues class and we decided that the university looked at this problem on too large of a scale.  Yes, it does affect all of campus but why not look at it on a building to building scale?  Having a smoking area designated outside of each building would not only be a fair compromise, it would allow those people who happen to light up a cigarette every once in a while to have their dignity back.  Honestly, making someone walk from the Architecture building at 3 am, while they are stressed about their project, to the cow path is NOT going to make them a happy camper  If anything it might cause them to just say “screw it” and smoke right then and there under the lights of the front doors of the building.

I think I’m seeing something here while writing this blog.  Maybe Ball State is just looking for a way to make a little extra money.  Charge a smoker $50 here…charge them $50 there.  Why not, right?  Well it’s because we go to a public university and because those smokers deserve to have their rights.  I’m sorry, but I think this has gone too far.

 -Devin Hillsdon-Smith

A fellow Scotty’s employee informed me at work last night that I only have 55 days (including weekends) until I graduate from Ball State University.  That countdown has kind of snuck up on me, and leaves me with mixed emotions.  On one hand, I’m ready to get out of Muncie, Indiana and break into the real world.  On the other, I’m pretty sure that I could get use to the sleeping in till noon, going to an hour or two class every day then going back to sleep.  Alas, those days filled with freedom, lacking responsibility are numbered…The only thing left to do is to brace myself, and find a job!

This summer I was an intern at two advertising agencies in Chicago and loved it so much that I made it my goal to get back to Chicago and get a job at a leading agency. In early December, I began writing the executives and my bosses at the two agencies asking each their opinions of the top agencies in the Chicago area and if there was anyone that they could put me in contact with. 

I was fortunate enough to have a very strong response and was put in contact with some very prominent names in the Chicago advertising scene.  As of now I spoken with agencies that do work for companies such as McDonald’s, Bud Light, Gatorade, and Wrigley.  As you can imagine, Chicago can have a very competitive job market.  Any college graduate who wants to work in advertising would most likely focus on one of two cities; Chicago or New York. 

In addition to the fierce competition, the economy isn’t helping.  Threats of another recession has left many companies carefully monitoring their expenditures (i.e. advertising dollars)  Without ad dollars being spent, there is no room to open up new positions in advertising agencies…meaning no jobs for Ryan!

Right now, I would characterize my position as ”actively waiting”.  I’ve been keeping in touch with the agencies I have interviewed with, while exploring my options in other cities.  Hopefully I’ll have a job by May 1…if not, I guess it wouldn’t be too bad moving back up to the lake and working at the ski shop for a while!

Recently, head football coach and BSU graduate, Brady Hoke signed an enhanced contract keeping him at Ball State through the 2010 season.  According to a press release the contract that increases his salary to $240,000 a year, includes enhanced incentives, and a buyout clause.

“We are very excited to have this completed and to have Brady Hoke continue as the head football coach at Ball State,” Collins says. “We are pleased with the leadership Coach Hoke has provided our football program, and with the positive direction the football program is headed under his guidance.”

Hoke, who led the Cards to their first bowl game since 1997 looks to continue on his success saying, “My family and I are very excited to have the opportunity to continue as the head football coach at Ball State University and to have the new contract completed. We owe a lot of thanks to the university administration, especially President Gora and Tom Collins, for their show of commitment to our staff and what we are accomplishing here at Ball State. This school is my alma mater and to be able to continue to see this program grow is very special. We still have a lot of work to do at Ball State, but the commitment the university has shown to help us reach our goals has been outstanding. We are pleased to have the business portion of this job taken care of, and we will continue to move forward each and every day to make Ball State Football the best it can be.”

Ball State will open the 2008 season with a home game vs. Northeastern Thursday, Aug. 28, in Scheumann Stadium.

Who needs to travel all the way to New Orleans to celebrate Fat Tuesdays when you can stay in good ole’ Muncie and attend MUNCIE GRAS!  This past Saturday, thousands of Muncie residents and college students alike gathered on Walnut Street to dance, sing, and party. 

Raising $35,000-40,000 annually, Muncie Gras benefits Muncie’s Downtown Developments.  Though a bit colder than I imagine Mardi Gras to be, I managed to stay warm in the huge heated tents that lined the streets.  The Go-Go dancing, great bands, and stage shows hold your attention and keep the party going strong early into the morning. 

The street was absolutely packed, and I found it strange to notice that most of the patrons seemed to be residents as opposed to college students.  Don’t get me wrong, there were a ton of college students there,  but I would say only about 30%.  Which is odd considering many students already frequent the bars on Walnut and there were multiple trolleys and bus routes circling between campus and downtown Muncie.

It was one of those things that I felt like I had to do before I graduated, so I went and had a great time.  Another event to cross off of my list.

Ball State University is forever changing and is on its way to bigger and better things under the care of President JoAnn Gora.

 ”Education Redefined” is the best way to describe everything going on with Ball State University. While many may not know what “Education Redefined” really stands for, nor has any clue as to how Ball State has changed over the past few years, President Gora has decided to travel to many different states and city’s informing alumni of what Ball State stands for and many more questions they may have.

On January 10, 2007, President Gora, along with Ben Hancock, Vice President for University Advancement, traveled to Marion, Indiana. Along to help were Erica Wright, Ebony Strong, and Brian Geiselhart, memebers of the Student Alumni Relations Team (St.A.R.T), Kate Webber, Director of Alumni and Student Programs, and Ed Shipley, Executive Director of Alumni Programs.  While in Marion, we were able to enjoy a nice buffet while meeting and greeting alumni from many graduating classes. Once the mingling was complete, alumni were intrigued by the beautiful sounds of Cardinal Five. After their selections were complete, we were graced with President Gora’s presence and  presentation. After speaking to the alumni and updating them of Ball State now and what the future holds for Ball State, President Gora then presented a short video of Ball State, starting with Ball State in 1918 to the present Ball State in order for the alumni to visually see the greatness of Ball Sate.

At the end of the night, it was obvious that the alumni were quite pleased and impressed with the vision there is for Ball State University.

With Ball State growing tremendously day by day, minute by minute, you can’t help but to look at President Gora, and friends, and say, “JOB WELL DONE”!!!!

ERICA WRIGHT     

Well, it’s that time of year for applications. The selection process is fairly easy. Applicants fill out an application form, interview, and then wait to find out if they have been selected. If you’re pondering on whether you’d be interested or not let me take a few moments to hopefully sway your mind (towards becoming a member, of course!).

 First off, being a StART member is a great opportunity as a student and future employee. You are able to network with alumni and expand your social web. You are given chances to attend professional meetings and parties that other Ball State students wouldn’t normally have. You are also given the chance to make a differnce by volunteering for the Salvation Army or a pre-game tailgate party. This semester I am volunteering at the Indianapolis Children’s Museum. Really, the possibilities are endless.

 Second, meetings are every other Wednesday morning. Sure it’s early, but I cannot think of a better reason to get out of bed in the morning. Ideas are bounced around and accomplished, the advisors provide a great breakfast, and meetings are short and to the point. 

 Finally, being in StART has given me so many more opportunities to meet other students. Sure, you’ve heard the cliche, “you’ll make great new friends that will last a lifetime… (and all of that other stuff).” But I’m here to tell you that you really will. You get out of StART what you put in, and if you come to make new friends and give your time to worthy events you will not regret joining.

I hope that I’ve given you a little better idea of what it means to be a StART member. More so, I hope that I will be seeing you at interviews. Hey, why not become involved in one of the best groups on campus?

 By: Arica Thiel

2nd seme is here!

1st seme. and break came and went so quickly that i’m still astound that i’ve been around ball state for almost half a year!

this seme. will be much tougher than last, but i have a feeling that it’ll fly by too so we’ll see……

Getting back into routine was def. hard. last week was quite an adjustment, not to mention all my early morning classes. ek.

it was nice seeing the first year spring cap admittance students last week. reminded me of the august when i was a scared/anxious first year cap student. they seem really nice and i’m excited on getting to know all of them!

homecoming committee applicatoins are out. i’ve applied. we’ll see if i get it though. it’d be a really fun committee to be a part of. they are so serious and passionate about homecoming week that its hard not to wanna get the spirit myself! resident assistancy applications were out too. they were due last week. then orientation leader applications are out too. theres a lot of things being applied for right now..in preparation for next year. hopefully someone finds something new to get involved w/! =]

miss ball state pagent was last saturday. it had a relatively good outcome. i forgot who won the crown but there was an article in the daily news about her though. maybe if i find one laying around here..i’ll come back and inform. there are a bunch of other catagories that was offered in the pagent also…i dont know who wont those either..but yeahh. i never knew ball state had a pagent and i was REALLY shocked on how serious it was plus the turnout of the event.

loads of volunteering things to do around here. MLK has several volunteer things being offered through SVS. i’m not signed up for any..or yet…still debating but yes. holidays are usually “catch up” days..so yeahh. we’ll see though.

that is all i can think of going on campus this previous week or so. plenty more to come though! =]

-y.hong

For those of you who are unaware, your Ball State Cardinals played Rutgers in the International Bowl on January 6th in Toronto, Canada.  Although the outcome wasn’t as expected, the Cards still looked strong and should be very proud of their efforts.

I’m currently trying to gather a first hand account from an individual that actually attended the game, so please stay tuned for that.  In the meantime, check out these pictures and video and/or read this article from ESPN.com

After finishing the season 7-5 the Ball State Cardinals are going to their first bowl game since 1996 after accepting a bowl bid for the International Bowl.  The team will have a little over a month to prepare for the game which will take place in Toronto, Canada on January 5th.  The Cards will be matched up against the Scarlet Knights of Rutgers who also come into the game with a 7-5 record. 

Because of their involvement with the Mid American Conference, BSU has been given the task of selling 10,000 tickets for the game and any tickets that go unsold will have to be bought out by the university.  Tickets are available through Ticketmaster and other venues but students and alumni are strongly urged to purchase their tickets through the university.

I keep overhearing conversations around campus that there are many students that are contemplating making the 10 hour road trip to Toronto as an exciting end to our Christmas break.  If you don’t have anything to do after the New Year, I suggest you grab all your friends, pile in the Honda and drive make the trip.  I’m sure it will be an eventful one- Just don’t forget your passports!  

GO CARDS!

It’s getting late in the semester and many students are beginning to feel the pressure.  Looking back, I’m sure many alumni remember the feeling…with only two weeks of classes left, everything seems to begin to pile on at once.  All the projects (which you’ve known about for weeks), homework and tests seem to slam you in one week leaving you scrambling to get everything turned in on time.  And just when you think you’re getting your head above water- you have to turn around and prepare for FINALS!!

I’m starting to believe that finals aren’t so much about showing everything you’ve learned throughout the semester as they are about teaching us to handle pressure and perform in high-stress situations.  When I sit down and think about it, very few of my finals have been any harder than a normal test over a few chapters. 

MY ADVICE:  In the next few weeks, when you’re losing sleep studying for finals, twitching from all the caffeine you’ve had, just relax, take a deep breath and remember- IT’S JUST ANOTHER TEST.

Two weekends ago I helped out at the Men’s Tennis Alumni Reunion. I helped give the guys their name-tags and cool tennis t-shirts. I also ate a very appetizing dinner at a table with the tennis coach. It was interesting to hear a little bit about the current team and where they are all from. I think those in attendance had a great time.
-Allison Stepp

The first men’s basketball ball game is tonight!! All cardinals, old and new, can go out and support the 87th season!  As a senior, I have many fond memories of going with my friends to cheer on the Ball State cardinals, and I encourage everyone to go and have fun and make memories :) I had the opportunity to attend Fan Jam , and it appears that both teams (men’s and women’s) seem excited and ready for their season! Tonight’s opening game against Butler should prove to be an exciting one, and hopefully can start off the cardinals with a winning season!!

Good Luck Cardinals!!-Emily Cliver

Brooke and I recently attended the Education Redefined tour at the Ritz Charles in Carmel, IN. It included many speakers including President Gora with a campus update. Brooke and I were assigned to work at the welcome table and help guests with their name tags. This gave me a chance to meet many new people.

As it neared the time to begin, we were all asked to take our seats where we were served a delicious meal. During dinner I was able to get to know a few great alumni from Ball State. I was especially excited to learn that a sat next to a teacher (I am an education major). She and I traded stories and experiences about the different classrooms we’ve worked in. The event was a wonderful experience and I encourage all who have to opportunity to take advantage of it.

By: Arica Thiel, 11/7/07

oh where do i begin?

transitioning from a high school senior to a college freshman is..well quite an experience. 

The Ball State academic year has been in session for about 3 months and, my gawwsh, they are FLYING by. There is SOO much going on campus everyday..if not going on then its whats all the buzz is about..its almost unreal. maybe i’m just not use to it [dont laugh fourth/fifth years]  so i’m still blown away, but ,man oh man, its crazy around here..and the worst part is.. I LOVE IT.  i’m sure that the fact i’m an CAP first year student doesn’t lighten the load, but i really enjoy CAP..so its all gravvyyy babbbyyy.

theres been so much that i dont think i can remember it all, but what i do remember most is the Mud Volleyball Tourney, Homecoming Events/Game/Parade, Volleyball game, activities fair, career fairs, move in day, first BSU Football game [yeah the one where the pepsi cans were falling from the sky], late nite, and Minnestrista.

 i have yet to gotten lost around here..so thats really good. just waiting for the day where i get on the wrong MITS bus..and boy i can only imagine. ek.

as only being a frosh, i still have 3 years left and plenties to do/look forward to. there are still the basketball games, the miss ball state pageant, spring break, and, oh of course my favorite..FINALS WEEK. [please hint the sarcasm]. there are so many study abroad trips/opportunities that i’m sooo anxious to do. i’m pretty sure college isn’t going to slow down anytime soon..so i better just embrace it while i still can.

sincerely and good day.

-Y.Hong

Since midterms are over, students are beginning the process of course request (selecting classes for next semester).   It has always amazed me how early you need to sign up for classes but, I suppose if you are scheduling 19,000+ students it takes some time.  Since I am now a senior at Ball State I only have four classes remaining to graduate, with means selecting is very easy. 

Being an Entrepreneurship major, I was fortunate enough to have my four years all planned out.  For Spring 08 I only have two more major classes to take and one more business core class to take.  Additionally, I have to take a random elective outside the college of business to meet all my graduation requirements, so I’ll pick an easy one.

However, when I was a freshman it felt like I was playing the game Survivor.  I had to choose when was a good time to take certain classes (i.e. History 150), and which professor I should select for that class.  Also, like the game survivor I had to decide whether or not to choose an alliance (have a friend take the class with me).

This investigative work entails calling, e-mailing, and asking everyone I know.  I like to find out what is the professor’s teaching style, how many tests, how much homework, etc.  It gets really tough when the university does not list the professor’s name then you have to take a gamble, but that is just like an entrepreneur….taking a risk!

-Brian G.

Tonight, starting at 6:30 in Worthen Arena, the Department of Intercollegiate Athletics will host “Fan Jam”, a program that has been implemented by the men’s football team the past two years.  According to Chris Taylor (director of communications and marketing), “The goal is to attract Ball State fans, alumni, family and students to Worthen Arena and get them up close to coaches and players,”

One of the main draws to the event tonight will be the chance to meet Ball State’s newly named (and 18th) head basketball coach, Billy Taylor.  It will be interesting to see how the players respond to the new coach, especially for players like Peyton Stoval, who is working with his 3rd coach in the 5 years that he has played for Ball State.  Ball State will look to improve upon last year’s less than satisfactory record starting on November 9th against the Butler Bulldogs.

It’s shaping up to be an exciting season, so don’t forget to cheer on your BSU Cardinals this season.  I know I’ll be cheering from my spot in “The Nest”!

HOMECOMING 2007. What a blast. This is my third year here at Ball State and for some strange reason, this year’s homecoming was the best by far. No wait-I know why it was the best. This year I was able to work with the Student Alumni Relations Team, I was able to see friends who decided to leave me and graduate last year, I was able to meet and greet new people, speaking with individuals who graduated from Ball State years ago, I was able to put tattoos of Charlie the Cardinal on people, and most of all, I was able to experience all of the campus festivities living off campus, being my first year living on my own in my new apartment. Talk about school spirit- I HAVE NEVER BEEN SO EXCITED AND SO FULL OF SCHOOL SPIRIT IN MY LIFE. I had everything from homecoming shirts down to Ball State tattoos(washable of course) on my face and hands. I was just happy all week. Personally, I think classes and meetings should actually be canceled during homecoming week. I mean, its only necessary. That way, theres no excuse as to why anyone should miss any activity and event. To sum everything up, I am a proud student of Ball State University and homecoming was another big hit as usual. TAKE PRIDE IN YOUR SCHOOL AND HAVE FUN DOING IT!!!!

 *Erica Wright*

Today the BSU Daily News released its Best of Ball State 2007 list.  The list compiles students favorites in categories such as Fraternities and Sororities, off-campus living, classes, and professors.  Also included in the list was the award for the most recognizable campus icon.  With the long list of distinguished alumni that BSU claims, one would expect this award to be given to the likes of David Letterman or Jim Davis.  Instead this year’s “Campus Icon” award was given to none other than the infamous Happy Friday Guy. 

For those of you who are unfamiliar with Happy Friday Guy (pictured above).  He can be described as a man in a cape, karate helmet, goggles and knee pads and can be found riding up and down McKinley on a motorized scooter around noon every single Friday.  The man is a legend.  His fan base is immense!  His facebook group is now over 5,000 strong.  He has t-shirts, videos, and even his own blog!  To learn more you can check out a documentary chronicling his endeavors at Youtube. 

Congratulations Happy Friday Guy!

Homecoming is one of my favorite times of the year.  It’s a time where the student body gathers together to show their pride and support for their university.  Not being a member of the Homecoming Steering Committee, I thought the week went very smoothly, but I’m sure it was extremely hectic for everyone involved behind the scenes.  The fashioin show, talent search, and Air Jam all were a great success and did an awesome job of keeping everyone excited throughout the week.

 To cap off the perfect week,  the Cardinal Football team came through with a 35-12 win over the Hilltoppers of Western Kentucky.  The Cards kept everyone on the edge of their seats as they went into halftime only up 14-12, but showed their pride and took control with two touchdowns in the 3rd quarter.  The 12 points allowed by the Cards was their lowest this year.

After looking through the Alumni website, I found these interesting stats that I thought I would share:

Although this was my last Homecoming as an undergrad I’m not sad because I know that I’ll be sure to make it back every year!  GO CARDS!

Anyone who attended the Talent Search held at Emens last night throughly enjoyed themselves.  There were several acts I enjoyed, but a few stood out, such as Tina Herbert as she sang “Kelly Clarkson’s” version of Beautiful Disaster.  That girl has a voice of a songbird.  Loved her!!!  Also, Noel Kunz, the yo-yo guy, was awesome.  He put on a really good performance with several different yo-yo’s to some hot music.  Loved it when he “skated” to receive his award.  MC’s, Jenna Dock and Ben Yoder did a wonderful job last night.  The event was well organized and ran very smoothly.  Kudos to the Homecoming Steering Committee for their hard work in putting together this years events.  So far, so good!

We have been hearing this command since grade school; “Read the directions!”  Even now as a senior in college I still need that reminder from time to time.

Before I tell you my story let me first begin by introducing myself.  My name is Meg Thornburg and I am currently the secretary for St.A.R.T. (Student Alumni Relations Team).  I am a senior here at Ball State and a member of Kappa Delta sorority, Order of Omega Honorary and a part time waitress at Scotty’s Brewhouse.  Needless to say I do now have a lot of time on my hands.  This is where I will begin.

Kate Webber is one of the St.A.R.T. advisers and one of my favorite people in the alumni office.  During one of our St.A.R.T. meetings she mentioned that she needed someone to do the homecoming banner this year.  No one raised their hand to volunteer.  Later that week she sent out an email saying how she would LOVE it if someone would take on the banner.  I caved.  I replied back to her telling her that I would do it.  I enlisted my roommate to help me create this banner and let me tell you how thrilled she was :-/ .  As we walked up and down the craft aisles of WalMart we decided to go with a glitter theme seeing how the homecoming theme is Roll Out the Red kinda Hollywood.  What doesn’t sparkle in Hollywood?  After a good four hours the banner was complete, our homework for the following day was not complete but it was ok because the banner looked great!  Monday afternoon came and my roommate and I walked proudly into the alumni center holding up what we believed to be the best banner ever entered. 

As we walked toward Kate her face turned from a smile to a “oh you’re not going to like what I have to say” face.  “Glitter is banned,” she said.  “Glitter is what?” I replied “Banned? Are you kidding?”  She wasn’t kidding.  Kate said that it was all in the directions printed out for the banner makers.  As you can probably tell I was not in a good mood at this point and my roommate looked like she was ready to kill me. 

My roommate and I spent the next hour in the “Occasions” store picking out acceptable items to put on the banner.  We then spent another three hours on our apartment floor putting the new and improved banner together.  We finally finished and I have to say the banner looks great!  We handed it in the next day and finally got our apartment floor back :-). 

Lesson learned!  Read directions or else you could be spending a lot more time than you can afford to give. 

After a disappointing loss during their first home game, the Cards redeemed themselves by defeating Buffalo by the largest margin of victory in Scheumann Stadium since 1996…49-14.

Scoring their first two touchdowns within the first 5 minutes of play and going into halftime up 28-0, the Cardinals showed that they were there to play, proving that their near upset of Nebraska last week was no fluke.

One of the key players of the game was sophomore defensive end Brandon Crawford. Crawford, a 31-year-old former Marine, has been an anchor for the Cardinals throughout the season. His 20 tackles is most among defensive linemen. He is also tied for the most sacks with three, and has three forced fumbles.  BSU Daily news has also written a story about Brandon that discusses how he became such a success.

This week BSU takes on Central Michigan at home and then go up against Western Kentucky for Homecoming!

Lets go Cards!

Last Saturday the Cardinals took on the nationally ranked Nebraska Cornhuskers. Of course, going into the game many people completely wrote off any chance of the Cardinals pulling off a victory or even keeping the game close. At the end of the day the final score proved that not only did we come to play but we came to win… well almost win. 41-40 was the final score with the Cardinals loosing by just one point.

Deep in the trenches at Memorial Stadium were a group of Ball State alumni and their faithful Charlie Cardinal bobble head. Each time the Cardinals would score these alumni and their Charlie Cardinal bobble head would get out of their seats and cheer on our Cardinals. While everyone around them wondered; “who are these fans and where again is Ball State?” More importantly; “why are they holding a bobble head parrot?” (A “parrot” is what David Letterman’s son called Charlie Cardinal when they were on campus for the  Letterman Building Dedication.) At the end of the day most people in Nebraska now know who we are (and where we are from) and they may have just a little more respect for us. 

I would like to thank Alumnus Josh Vogel for sending us the great picture!

As President of the Student Alumni Relations Team (St.A.R.T.) I wanted to say a few things about what our oganization has been up to so far this year. I attended the Fall Activity fair again this year and had a great time talking to students of all ages about our program, what we do, and how it can benefit their college career. I had a lot of interested studnets stop by, some really wanted information while others were more interested in the free cups!

I’ve also been able to attend the first Pre-Game Rally here at the Alumni Center and had a great time talking with all the alumni and enjoying some delicious food! The first game of the year was a great time in the new stadium, and I don’t think I’ve ever seen the student section so full and excited! The football program seems to be doing great this year and I’m excited to see where they can go with it.

Right now we are in the middle of interviewing potential new members and I can’t wait to see who is going to be accepted! It’s always fun to bring in new people and see what they can do!

 Paul Sommer

The popular bar, The Giant Locker Room, will be getting a little more “giant” this weekend as it hosts its grand REopening on Friday at its new location on the corner of McKinley and University.  The spot was previously occupied for a short time by Wing Out.  I am uncertain of the motives behind the move, but I would assume it relates to the increased need for space as more and more undergrads frequent the bar looking for a less smokey, quieter alternative to the Dill Street Bar.

The Locker Room has been a local favorite for alumni when they come back to visit because of the old athletic photos and BSU memorabilia.  My mom claims that my grandfather is in one of the basketball photos (he played basketball for the Cards in the 50’s) but I’m not sure that I believe her. Hopefully the change will be well accepted by its patrons and the Locker Room will continue to prosper. 

-Ryan Dumoulin 

On Saturday, September 15th the Alumni Association hosted an Indianapolis alumni outing at the beautiful Hoosier Park horse track in Anderson, Indiana.  35 individuals attended this event which included a catered dinner in a suite overlooking the track.  Fellow St.A.R.T. member Brad Luetje and I were in attendance and both agreed that it was great to see so many Alumni come out to reconnect with BSU.

A special thanks to Jason Blythe (Alumni ambassador for the Indianapolis area) for organizing such a successful event.

-Ryan Dumoulin

St.A.R.T. Vice President/Treasurer

Thank you for checking out BSUAA’s new blog.  As you can tell, it’s a work in progress.  We would appreciate any suggestions that you may have regarding the improvement of this site, so dont be shy!