Titans, Ice, and Goodbyes

Now WHO said Titans can't ice skate?

...Because whoever that was, they were right!

I captured this video at last week's Titans On Ice/Winter Wonderland event hosted by ASI.  On that note, I'd like to express my appreciation now that I know where my tuition is being spent, BUUUTTTTT I digress...

If you were to walk past Titan Square like I did on Wednesday afternoon, you'd have heard some of the students performing at Open Mic, maybe saw a pretty good crowd, a long line for free hot chocolate (because suddenly it tastes better when it's free *wink), and perhaps you heard the shrieks of joy from the brave Titans who decided to try their luck on the ice skating rink that ASI brought for the day.  

Oh did I say shrieks of joy?  I meant shrieks of fear, seeing as though most of these kids had no idea how to skate.  And who can blame them!?  We live in beautiful, sunny Southern California. We're not supposed to know how to ice skate!

 I will say that it was pretty cool to see so much fun being had by the Titan student body, but I will say this:  SoCal kids can surely dress for the snow, but we are so NOT cut out for it.  Happy Holidays!

While this is my last post for this semester's assignment, I think I'll continue blogging.

So until Spring...

 This is The TITANic Semantic, reporting.

Thank you for reading... yes, all five of you *wink.

See you next semester.

-T

Oh Snap!

This petition which condemned the The Daily Titan's advertisements on "date rape" had been swimming around campus for students to sign.  OH. SNAP.  

While this has received it's own share of criticism, you know what?  This is a proud moment for ALL students.  It doesn't matter if you're male, female, a communications student or not, or even a reader of the school's newspaper.  This is a perfect example of active participation and uniting together to stand up and speak out against media-- even if it is as seemingly insignificant as the school newspaper.

Students, our very own Titans, wrote this petition.  Hundreds have signed the petition- even faculty!  These students are also citizens, consumers of today's media, maybe even our future leaders.  This shows that we have a voice and that we aren't afraid to stand together and speak.  It shows that there's still spark in our youth, in the power of being educated and in spreading awareness on matters that really affect people.

One of my favorite professors, Dr. Nancy Snow (the professor who was originally going to teach this class this semester) said to me,"Speak truth to power."

I think that is exactly what this is.

-T

Daily Titan, This Is NOT Okay

I’m feeling very proud seeing my fellow students speak out against The Daily Titan’s poor judgment and tasteless advertisement which is anything but clever or creative. EDUCATE yourselves instead of regurgitating the same trash today’s media produces. We go to school to change that and make a difference; not to mimic what’s already been done.

-

I'm sorry, but The Daily Titan REALLY should have ran this by someone before publishing it.  I don't know...how about by a professional, maybe?

You call yourselves Comm. and advertising students? Pathetic. ACTUALLY, you guys fit the bill just fine—creating a poorly-made ad that objectifies women, cuts away at their dignity, caters to mass media’s warped sense of reality,  and perpetuates the cycle of labeling and stereotyping? Yeah, you guys are PERFECT for this industry.

As a Comm. student myself, if it's anything I've learned it's that we are here to learn how to become better and more effective communicators- the kind that advocate AGAINST the means of communication that pervades today's industry.  We need to rise above all we see today and use our knowledge, skill, and creativity to shed light on information that sends maybe not a positive message to our audience (because really, not everything is sunshine and rainbows) but an EDUCATED one.

You ought to be ashamed and embarrassed to think nobody would speak out against this excuse of a “clever” or “edgy” advertisement.

Baby, It's Cold Outside!

Just waiting for class next to the beautiful trees in Titan Square on this ch-ch-ch-chi-chilly winter day.

Sarah Silverman? Err. I mean...Professor Perez?

Okay.  This has been on my mind since Day 1 of the semester.

I need to get it off my chest.

Doesn't comedian Sarah Silverman bear a slight resemblance to my Women of American Studies professor, Amanda Perez?

In my mind, they're the same people and I'm just going to run with that.

Reunion

Last semester I met a boy in Dr. Beals’ social psychology class.  One of my earlier posts referenced an art exhibit put on by one of the graduate students in that same class.  Hmm.  Who would have thought that class would have such an impact?  Anyways, so I met this boy who sat next to me for the majority of that spring semester. 

Immediately people expect a romantic undertone, but no. This was romantic in the sense that it was just a raw, human connection between two souls that would probably never meet again. I'll omit his name out of privacy, only because he might think me somewhat of a stalker for being inspired by this encounter.  *cough* Rene *cough*cough*

HONESTLY though, I think this sort of thing happens more often than we think or would like to believe.

In class, He complimented my boots and hippie bracelets. I complimented his smile.  If I could describe him, I’d say he looked like a Waldo (Where’s Waldo) hipster. We never got to say “goodbye” after our final.

Well.

I’m here watching the jazz band perform on campus and who walks up, guitar in hand? Hipster Waldo. We both smiled and waved. I’m wearing the same boots he complimented. His smile hasn't changed.

"Bye", I said.

"And hello again", he replied.

"I still dig your boots, bro."

"And I still dig your smile, bra."

W#6 Video Commentary

This is a video commentary that was assigned for my Comm. 435 Opinion & Editorial Writing class here at CSUF.  I wanted to comment on the issue of student loans and the ridiculous amount of debt students are being forced into.  I would almost argue that it's abusive to students who are just trying to get an education.  Basically its a satirical commentary on this issue and I fashioned it after the PSA commercial of abused pets...yes the Sarah McLaughlin one...and yes, the one that we're all guilty of changing the channel from ;-)

Enjoy.

-T.

P.S. Maybe one day I WILL establish the Indentured Student Servant Fund.  You think Oprah would be in on it?

Invaders

Oh boy...they're back.

This is most certainly a treat to many Titans, including myself, simply because its a form of entertainment between class.  Perhaps that's sad to say, but really, seeing a guy talk about the end of days, how homosexuality is a mental illness, and speaking in tongues is KINDA funny after you've been in a lecture hall for three hours. 

I captured this photo after they tried to hand me some literature.  They simply couldn't accept the fact that my arms were full with lugging around a tower of heavy textbooks along with an assortment of binders while managing to balance a Starbucks coffee on top. Or you know, the fact that I looked like a camel with my back strapped to my suitcase of a backpack. Or maybe even the fact that I was "talking" on my cell phone to avoid contact . No.  That would be too easy. But as soon as I said "I'm Jewish" they stopped insisting and replied with "Oh well, WE forgive you."

Lesson of the day: When in doubt, pretend you're Jewish?

Heritage House

Did anyone know that the Heritage House is actually located ON the grounds of Cal State Fullerton?

Perhaps the better question would be does anyone CARE that the Heritage House is actually located on the grounds of Cal State Fullerton?  *crickets* Anybody?  No?

I found myself  and the other four Titans wandering through the Fullerton Arboretum- which I will add is also a hidden gem on campus that nobody really seems to know about-  and in the middle of the trees, overlooking the pond is this- Heritage House.

Originally built in 1894, this is the SAME house that Dr. Clark practiced medicine in at the turn of the century.  Does this not strike some sort of fascination in anyone?  Really?  ...tough crowd.

The fact that its 2013 and this house stood the same way it stands now back in 1894 is really rather amazing.  This is a historical relic.  And its on OUR campus.

As I explored the home of Dr. Clark, I had a moment.  A special moment, you could say.  As I looked down where I was walking, the realization came to me-  this is the same ground that I walked on when I was eight years old and my father would bring me here to the arboretum to visit.  I was walking on the same steps that my eight year old self stood on, I was looking through the same windows my eight year old self looked through (and even Dr. Clark before me) and I looked out to the same pond where I used to feed ducks and where the Clark family enjoyed their summer evenings.  And its still here.

I'm in college now, a Fullerton Titan, soon-to-be alumni, and I can honesty say that I still look at this place with same wonder I had those years ago.  The Fullerton Arboretum and Heritage House have that effect on visitors.  You'd be surprised.

Maybe that is why Heritage House is such a gem to me?  Because its a time capsule, a living time capsule.

Midterms

Scene of the crime.

Victim: my brain.

Victim last scene fully functioning here 3 days ago.  Any information on where my mind is, you are urged to contact myself.

Possible suspect:  MIDTERMS

Food Trucks

And they say college students are starving...

Spanish Bistro, my favorite food truck on campus, might make you think different.

Or at least will make your taste buds think otherwise.

Spanish Paella, $5.  And to think I bought an energy bar at the Titan Gym for $4.75!

Winning.

Fire Drill!!! Quick! Everyone Get Out!

10:00 a.m.  The bell tower strikes 10.  Its time for class.  I'm currently sitting in American Studies 320-- Woman in American Society.

10:05 a.m.  Professor decides to show up.

10:20 a.m. !ATTENTION!  THIS IS THE UNIVERSITY POLICE.  PLEASE REMAIN CALM.  THIS IS A FIRE DRILL.  I REPEAT.  THIS IS ONLY A DRILL.  PLEASE EVACUATE TO YOUR DESIGNATED SAFETY ZONES.  !ATTENTION!....

Let me just add that it seems like even more of a safety hazard to have thousands of students cram their way into hallways and down staircases during this fire drill than it would in a real emergency.  I'm pretty sure I saw 2 students trip and get stepped on.  But I digress...

10:27 a.m.  I see my professor walking to her car.  I don't blame her.

10:32 a.m. The thought comes to mind-- This is THE perfect opportunity for a coffee break.  [runs to Aloha Java, located between University Hall and the Humanities building].

10:33 a.m.  Has a realization-- Am I really the ONLY student who decided to get coffee during the fire alarm drill?

10:36 a.m.  Coffee in hand.  Success.  I'm running back to McCarthy Hall as soon as I see the evacuation is over and everyone can get back to class.

10:37 a.m.  I'm approaching the lecture hall.  I slip my coffee behind my back so it doesn't look like I took advantage of the opportunity-- even though I totally did-- and what do I hear?  "Ms. Coover!"  Momentary panic.  It's my professor.  I turn around quickly.

 "Did you REALLY go and get a coffee?  When the university is trying to make an effort to ensure your safety and all that's required is a little cooperation, and you decide its time for coffee?"

  A sweat starts to break, but before I can answer I see a smile break on my professor's face.  From behind her back she pulls out a coffee as well.  Caramel frappuccino.

 "I'm glad I wasn't the only one", she says.  "Great minds think alike."

Sigh of relief.

Titan's Oktoberfest

Oktoberfest.  Oktoberfest is the world's largest fair held annually in Munich, Bavaria, Germany. It is a 16-day festival running from late September to the first weekend in October with more than 6 million people from around the world attending the event every year.

Well...apparently it is also celebrated at Cal State Fullerton.  One small step for students, one giant leap for  ASI and administrators who are trying to change our image of "commuter college".  And apparently all you need is a Bavarian Pretzel stand (*cough*cough* shout out to Wetzel's Pretzels *cough*) and some free stuff to keep students entertained and ON campus. 

What the face painting or the caricatures had to do with Oktoberfest, I don't know?  Oh! And the henna tattoo stands?  Yeah.  That SCREAMS Germany ;-)   But it was wonderful to see the Titan student body come out and enjoy the festivities.  

Hidden Gems of CSUF

I'm feeling very "Thoreau" in my new study spot right next to the Heritage House in the Cal State Fullerton Arboretum-- or what I like to call CSUF's very own "Walden".   I highly encourage a visit whether it be a quick stroll after class or if you're like me and just want to unwind without having to think about all the midterms you have to study for.  But shhhh! Don't tell too many! ...you know...students might want to spend their time here instead of Starbucks ;-)

Shit My Professor Says

Shit My Professor Says

Some wise words before the first exam of the semester.

"You cheat, you die."

-Professor Lee

It's Greek Week at CSUF.

And CROIKEY!!!  'ERE YOU CAN SEE THE MAJESTIC SORORITY GOIRL IN 'ER NATURAL HABITAT. DON'T GET TOO CLOSE, MATE!

I've been walking around campus with my cellphone glued to my ear, talking to that imaginary someone you always talk to when you want to avoid solicitors.  Sorry, but you know its true.  Sorority girls...no means no to you too!

P.S. Why do they migrate in herds?

Hidden Gems of CSUF

Maybe its just me, but I don't think very many Titans actually realize how many twists and turns around campus can actually lead you to a most interesting discovery.  I can't help but think that it's not just me who hasn't taken advantage of getting to know her campus when this university has been dubbed the "commuter's college".

Crossing through Pollack Library I came across a dimly-lit room with exposition lights and soft music playing in the background.  I stepped inside to avoid the line at the new Starbucks- goodness, you'd think that these people have never had a frappuccino before in their life!- and I found this.  The artist's exhibition room.  The photographer's art that was on display was actually that of Courtney Conlon- a graduate student who served as one of the two teacher's assistants in Dr. Beals' Social psychology class I took last spring.  It was as though I was meant to find this place ;-)

Definitely go and check it out if you have the time...or, you know, if you find that waiting for your frappuccino is taking just a liiiiitle longer than expected.

Top 5 Sleep Tips for College Students

After 4 years of college here and another overseas, I think its safe to say that lack of sleep is a universal epidemic among college students all over the world.  This isn't to say its a good thing, though 24-hour Starbucks has definitely made it a more pleasant experience.

Here are 5 Sleep Tips for College Students...chicken soup for the college student's tired soul.

Top 5 Sleep Tips for College Students

Shit My Professor Says

Shit My Professor Says

We all remember the campus lock-down of Fall 2012, don't we?

Well...

Discussion of the new regulations regarding the safety protocol students and faculty must now follow in the event of an emergency where an armed person were to get onto campus took place today.

"I had to watch this safety video on what to do if an armed person gets onto campus again, and apparently the new safety procedure requires the entire class to actively engage the shooter?  I guess they think that if we were all to hide, the shooter would kill us all.  So this new safety measure gives everyone a fair chance of dying?  The way the department made it seem was that the faculty was leading this charge.  Look.  I'm sure you're all wonderful people, but I'm NOT dying for you.  I'm going to say that the one who is most educated, has the most degrees, and the highest G.P.A. deserves to be saved.  And...that would be me. So...any questions?"

Burning The Midnight Oil

My hot date on a Saturday night.  Yep, school is definitely back in session. 

Food Trucks

So often I hear that there should be healthier options for students on campus. Well...I'm just going to throw out there that there's a ridiculously good food truck on campus by the name of Spanish Bistro.  Great service!  Great specials! Great tasting!  My inner Spaniard is definitely satisfied...OLE!

Try it out...or, you know...The Gastronome um...rocks?

Selling Your Textbook

Semester begins- saw off your arm and/or leg- use that arm and/or leg to purchase your textbooks- resent your professor mid-semester when you realize he/she doesn't even use the book- semester ends- sell your books back- REPEAT.

To me, the greatest gift knowledge has given me is the ability to share it. From now on I will be giving my used textbooks to my professors who can give them to a student in need, or I’ll be donating them to the library so that there’s even just one more book available for a student to borrow because its an absolute crime that a book which cost me $120 will be bought for $8 when selling it back—and then resold for at least three times as much! Unlike those who run these businesses, I profited enough from my education; I do not need to profit off of someone trying to get theirs.

Shit My Professor Says

Shit My Professor Says.

"It will give me GREAT pleasure to give you an F. And my estimation of your character will plummet.  So…shall we begin?"

-gulp-

Well...there's ONE way to start the semester.

Fall Semester in 3-2-1...ACTION!

Waaaaake Up, San Francisco  Fullerton!

I write to you from the 2nd floor balcony of McCarthy Hall, where I am currently early for class— 27 minutes and 3 seconds to be exact.

Another school year has started. I realized this while walking past CSUF's Pollak Library, following my morning shadow to the accompaniment of the bell tower striking 9 a.m, listening to the tapping of professor’s heels, the bustling of students rushing to class, the distant “GAHHD-DAAMET” of a frustrated student who walked back to a parking violation ticket, or even the wails of new students who are just now realizing that parking is impossible to find past 8 a.m. I, however, have been there and back, and in between have learned the ins & outs of university life as a Titan. But every semester, I still return with a sense of nervous-excitement as I walk through what will soon become my second home.

Side-note: You'd think I no longer need a campus map, but...yeah...